Psychiatrists in Vail, AZ
Sussan L Goldsworthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vail, AZ 85641 (Online Only)
Dr. Sussan Goldsworthy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 15 years of nursing experience in several different clinical settings. With exposure to patients with both physical manifestations of their mental health conditions and psychiatric mental health co-morbidities, Dr. Goldsworthy has become an expert in her field, offering patients comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric care through every step of their mental health journey.
Dr. Sussan Goldsworthy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 15 years of nursing experience in several different clinical settings. With exposure to patients with both physical manifestations of their mental health conditions and psychiatric mental health co-morbidities, Dr. Goldsworthy has become an expert in her field, offering patients comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric care through every step of their mental health journey.
I am a board cert psychiatrist w/ 28 yrs of experience, incl: 3 yr residency in internal medicine (board cert, 2000) and exposure to alt approaches/diverse populations (Native American, holistic eating disorder facility, students, inner-city crisis work) who loves to learn/listen (courses: EMDR-basic, dissoc, addictions, personality, chronic illness, attachment; DBT; CBT; mindfulness, lifestyle, communication, evid-based non-pharm). I apply all of this when I assess and assist you to capitalize on strengths, gain resilience, dive deep into psyche/your past/struggles, process trauma, learn skills, broaden perspective and agency.
I am a board cert psychiatrist w/ 28 yrs of experience, incl: 3 yr residency in internal medicine (board cert, 2000) and exposure to alt approaches/diverse populations (Native American, holistic eating disorder facility, students, inner-city crisis work) who loves to learn/listen (courses: EMDR-basic, dissoc, addictions, personality, chronic illness, attachment; DBT; CBT; mindfulness, lifestyle, communication, evid-based non-pharm). I apply all of this when I assess and assist you to capitalize on strengths, gain resilience, dive deep into psyche/your past/struggles, process trauma, learn skills, broaden perspective and agency.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85706
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Sapphire Journey Healthcare PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85747 (Online Only)
To schedule an appointment, go to my website Sapphirejourney.org and click "schedule an appointment". Insurance and self pay appointments within a few days. Sarah is a Board Certified Psych NP (PMHNP). She works primarily with women and teens. She specializes in maternal mental health and the unique challenges women face at different life stages. She has an understanding of issues related to preconception, pregnancy, infertility, loss, and adjusting to parenting. She provides medication management and/or therapy via telehealth. Hours: Monday & Tuesday 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Thursday & Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm.
To schedule an appointment, go to my website Sapphirejourney.org and click "schedule an appointment". Insurance and self pay appointments within a few days. Sarah is a Board Certified Psych NP (PMHNP). She works primarily with women and teens. She specializes in maternal mental health and the unique challenges women face at different life stages. She has an understanding of issues related to preconception, pregnancy, infertility, loss, and adjusting to parenting. She provides medication management and/or therapy via telehealth. Hours: Monday & Tuesday 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Thursday & Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
Dr. John Sparks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85706 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone experiencing challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. They may feel overwhelmed by their mental health and seek clarity, support, and effective treatment to regain control. Their goals are to manage their symptoms, improve emotional regulation, and achieve a balanced life. They want compassionate, comprehensive care that addresses both mental and physical well-being, ensuring long-term success in managing their conditions.
My ideal client is someone experiencing challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. They may feel overwhelmed by their mental health and seek clarity, support, and effective treatment to regain control. Their goals are to manage their symptoms, improve emotional regulation, and achieve a balanced life. They want compassionate, comprehensive care that addresses both mental and physical well-being, ensuring long-term success in managing their conditions.
Fuanjia Fuangunyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85756
Dually Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.
Dually Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.
Brett Curran - Ages 4 And Up
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, DNP
Verified Verified
Sahuarita, AZ 85629
I have been practicing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) since graduating from the University of Southern Maine in 2010. I completed my doctoral education in 2021 culminating in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I have also obtained Master’s and Bachelor’s level degrees in psychology/forensic psychology and have worked previously as a counselor. As a PMHNP, I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, virtual telemedicine, corrections, IOP, ACT, long term care, and administration.
I have been practicing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) since graduating from the University of Southern Maine in 2010. I completed my doctoral education in 2021 culminating in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I have also obtained Master’s and Bachelor’s level degrees in psychology/forensic psychology and have worked previously as a counselor. As a PMHNP, I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, virtual telemedicine, corrections, IOP, ACT, long term care, and administration.
Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP of Medica Today LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85706
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Arizona & Connecticut. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Arizona & Connecticut. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
Albert McNames
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-ED, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85706 (Online Only)
My approach is rooted in a deep respect for the uniqueness of each individual's narrative. I believe in the transformative power of empathetic listening, collaborative treatment planning, and evidence-based interventions to support my patients on their paths to recovery. My clinical practice spans diverse settings, from outpatient clinics to inpatient psychiatric units.
My approach is rooted in a deep respect for the uniqueness of each individual's narrative. I believe in the transformative power of empathetic listening, collaborative treatment planning, and evidence-based interventions to support my patients on their paths to recovery. My clinical practice spans diverse settings, from outpatient clinics to inpatient psychiatric units.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
Pinky Castillo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, RN
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85756 (Online Only)
Is mental health issue a challenge and preventing you from feeling and doing your best? Let me help you. I am a practicing board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experiences in geriatric psychiatry, adult psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, mental and drug rehabilitation. I am also a board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) and worked as a FNP in correctional and hospital settings. Additionally, I have long years of RN experience in various specialties. My professional experiences allow me to deliver a caring and a more comprehensive approach in psychiatry.
Is mental health issue a challenge and preventing you from feeling and doing your best? Let me help you. I am a practicing board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experiences in geriatric psychiatry, adult psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, mental and drug rehabilitation. I am also a board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) and worked as a FNP in correctional and hospital settings. Additionally, I have long years of RN experience in various specialties. My professional experiences allow me to deliver a caring and a more comprehensive approach in psychiatry.
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85706
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
Jessica Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85708 (Online Only)
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85706 (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
HPC Care ADHD Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85706 (Online Only)
Empowering You to Thrive with ADHD Are you constantly battling to keep your focus? Does staying organized feel impossible? At HPC, we understand ADHD's challenges and are here to help. We offer thorough assessments, medication management, CBT, mindfulness, and flexible telehealth options. Our personalized approach ensures you get the care you need. With a blend of expertise and compassion, we provide a supportive environment to help you overcome your ADHD challenges. Take the first step towards a more organized and focused life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Empowering You to Thrive with ADHD Are you constantly battling to keep your focus? Does staying organized feel impossible? At HPC, we understand ADHD's challenges and are here to help. We offer thorough assessments, medication management, CBT, mindfulness, and flexible telehealth options. Our personalized approach ensures you get the care you need. With a blend of expertise and compassion, we provide a supportive environment to help you overcome your ADHD challenges. Take the first step towards a more organized and focused life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
Raven Hodges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85706 (Online Only)
My ideal client struggles with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They need compassionate support and effective coping strategies to manage their emotions and regain control. They seek to understand their feelings better and desire personalized treatment options that resonate with their experiences. Their ultimate goal is to achieve emotional stability and improved mental well-being, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives and navigate their journeys with confidence.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. They need compassionate support and effective coping strategies to manage their emotions and regain control. They seek to understand their feelings better and desire personalized treatment options that resonate with their experiences. Their ultimate goal is to achieve emotional stability and improved mental well-being, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives and navigate their journeys with confidence.
See more therapy options for Vail
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Vail, AZ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Vail, AZ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Transgender |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Vail, AZ see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Vail?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.