Psychiatrists in Ada County, ID
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a doctoral degree from Idaho State University. I have been in the nursing field for 25 years with a focus in mental health and community nursing. I work with a variety of clients ages 8-40 and have a special love of caring for teens and young adults. I enjoy helping clients and their families through utilizing a holistic approach. I believe in treating the whole person by incorporating positive lifestyle changes, brief therapeutic interventions, and evidence based medications.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a doctoral degree from Idaho State University. I have been in the nursing field for 25 years with a focus in mental health and community nursing. I work with a variety of clients ages 8-40 and have a special love of caring for teens and young adults. I enjoy helping clients and their families through utilizing a holistic approach. I believe in treating the whole person by incorporating positive lifestyle changes, brief therapeutic interventions, and evidence based medications.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with a variety of mental health concerns. I am passionate about mental health and firmly believe that working with vulnerable populations is my purpose. Although my focus is medication management, I believe improving mental health involves a holistic approach that addresses multiple lifestyle factors. I take pride in being a good listener. I genuinely want to understand where my patients come from so that I can develop a treatment plan that is evidence-based, holistic, and targeted to meet individual needs.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with a variety of mental health concerns. I am passionate about mental health and firmly believe that working with vulnerable populations is my purpose. Although my focus is medication management, I believe improving mental health involves a holistic approach that addresses multiple lifestyle factors. I take pride in being a good listener. I genuinely want to understand where my patients come from so that I can develop a treatment plan that is evidence-based, holistic, and targeted to meet individual needs.
Dr. Tamara McDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
I help men and women struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, and PTSD/trauma to feel empowered, regain confidence, and achieve emotional wellness. I specialize in mental healthcare for women who experience hormone fluctuations throughout the menstrual and reproductive years, perimenopause, and menopause. I empower my patients with the knowledge, skills, and resources to make informed decisions about their mental health. I believe that long term health and happiness are not only possible, they are also sustainable. I love helping my patients heal so they can live and love fully once again.
I help men and women struggling with anxiety, depression, insomnia, and PTSD/trauma to feel empowered, regain confidence, and achieve emotional wellness. I specialize in mental healthcare for women who experience hormone fluctuations throughout the menstrual and reproductive years, perimenopause, and menopause. I empower my patients with the knowledge, skills, and resources to make informed decisions about their mental health. I believe that long term health and happiness are not only possible, they are also sustainable. I love helping my patients heal so they can live and love fully once again.
Your wellbeing matters and it’s time for you to be seen and heard. I am committed to fostering an inviting, safe space where everyone, regardless of background, will be valued. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that specializes in treating the full range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD and more. My background includes working as a nurse not only in behavioral health, but in many medical settings. This experience, coupled with my training as a health coach, gives me a deeper understanding of what may be affecting you as a whole person.
Your wellbeing matters and it’s time for you to be seen and heard. I am committed to fostering an inviting, safe space where everyone, regardless of background, will be valued. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that specializes in treating the full range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD and more. My background includes working as a nurse not only in behavioral health, but in many medical settings. This experience, coupled with my training as a health coach, gives me a deeper understanding of what may be affecting you as a whole person.
Omega Mental Health has been serving the Treasure Valley community with quality healthcare since 1997. It has been our endeavor to bring to you the best healthcare available at affordable costs during hours that accommodate your schedule.
Omega Mental Health has been serving the Treasure Valley community with quality healthcare since 1997. It has been our endeavor to bring to you the best healthcare available at affordable costs during hours that accommodate your schedule.
Are antidepressant medications not providing the relief you hoped for? In my psychiatry residency, I saw scores of patients with depression, anxiety, and PTSD who did not respond well to the traditional first line treatments of antidepressant medications (SSRIs, SNRIs) plus cognitive behavioral therapy. Many had tried over 10 meds and had years of therapy/counseling without benefit. These frustrating experiences led me to develop and pursue interests in mental health treatments that are more likely to be effective—mainly intensive dynamic psychotherapy and ketamine- assisted psychotherapy.
Are antidepressant medications not providing the relief you hoped for? In my psychiatry residency, I saw scores of patients with depression, anxiety, and PTSD who did not respond well to the traditional first line treatments of antidepressant medications (SSRIs, SNRIs) plus cognitive behavioral therapy. Many had tried over 10 meds and had years of therapy/counseling without benefit. These frustrating experiences led me to develop and pursue interests in mental health treatments that are more likely to be effective—mainly intensive dynamic psychotherapy and ketamine- assisted psychotherapy.
Frances Spink
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Idaho! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason. Is it hard to fall asleep at night, or do you wake up multiple times, which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Idaho! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason. Is it hard to fall asleep at night, or do you wake up multiple times, which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
Stacey Whitaker
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C, CAQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705 (Online Only)
Have you been considering medications for depression, anxiety or OCD but not sure if this is the route for you? Do you have questions about what may be the best medication option for you? I understand, and I can help. Together, we can explore those questions and so much more. I focus on working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stressors, or life changes who want a collaborative approach to their mental healthcare. Together, we can create a welcoming and supportive relationship so that you can take an active role in your wellness.
Have you been considering medications for depression, anxiety or OCD but not sure if this is the route for you? Do you have questions about what may be the best medication option for you? I understand, and I can help. Together, we can explore those questions and so much more. I focus on working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stressors, or life changes who want a collaborative approach to their mental healthcare. Together, we can create a welcoming and supportive relationship so that you can take an active role in your wellness.
Sami Phuyal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Are you seeking the best psychiatrist near you? Look no further, we are accepting new patients. Our practice in Meridian warmly welcomes new patients, dedicated to providing top-tier mental health care. We understand the significance of accessible mental health help and offer a range of services including ADHD testing, anxiety, depression testing, and treatment for children. We see patients of all ages 7 years and up.
Are you seeking the best psychiatrist near you? Look no further, we are accepting new patients. Our practice in Meridian warmly welcomes new patients, dedicated to providing top-tier mental health care. We understand the significance of accessible mental health help and offer a range of services including ADHD testing, anxiety, depression testing, and treatment for children. We see patients of all ages 7 years and up.
Tulia Brain and Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eagle, ID 83616
Amber created Tulia, believing that everyone faces a unique set of problems that stem from the many factors that impact our mental health. Tulia takes a holistic, managed approach to your mental health. We screen your physical health, understand your history, listen to your concerns, and partner with you to find solutions. All intakes start with blood work to rule out various physical issues affecting mental health. Tulia also looks at missed opportunities for health, such as nutrition, sleep, exercise, and social connections.
Amber created Tulia, believing that everyone faces a unique set of problems that stem from the many factors that impact our mental health. Tulia takes a holistic, managed approach to your mental health. We screen your physical health, understand your history, listen to your concerns, and partner with you to find solutions. All intakes start with blood work to rule out various physical issues affecting mental health. Tulia also looks at missed opportunities for health, such as nutrition, sleep, exercise, and social connections.
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706 (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
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Meridian Advanced Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
Meridian Advanced Psychiatry was created for patients that have previously received less than ideal treatment. We work with all patients with difficult to treat mental health concerns. If you feel you have not been listened to, or your concerns have been dismissed we are here to listen and help. We specialize in ADHD treatment in children through adults. We also specialize in substance use treatment or medication-assisted treatment, such as Suboxone, Sublocade, or Vivitrol.
Meridian Advanced Psychiatry was created for patients that have previously received less than ideal treatment. We work with all patients with difficult to treat mental health concerns. If you feel you have not been listened to, or your concerns have been dismissed we are here to listen and help. We specialize in ADHD treatment in children through adults. We also specialize in substance use treatment or medication-assisted treatment, such as Suboxone, Sublocade, or Vivitrol.
Karen Schaaf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646 (Online Only)
Are you grappling with feelings of depression or anxiety? I can help you overcome some of these feelings. The goal would be to navigate a route toward a happier and healthier future. I look at the whole person and provide dignity and respect. I look at your needs to figure out how to work through the frustrations that you are dealing with. Guiding you through your crisis and providing problem-solving skills.
Are you grappling with feelings of depression or anxiety? I can help you overcome some of these feelings. The goal would be to navigate a route toward a happier and healthier future. I look at the whole person and provide dignity and respect. I look at your needs to figure out how to work through the frustrations that you are dealing with. Guiding you through your crisis and providing problem-solving skills.
Need to be heard? That is what I am here for. To listen and to explore what hasn't worked, and what has. Regardless of diagnosis, I want to help you with whatever symptoms are affecting you the most, and are your priority to address. I will help guide, but it is just as important that you feel comfortable with the options and any changes we make, every step of the way! I am well versed in psychopharmacology and want my patients to understand and feel comfortable with all our options, from prescription medications, supplements to brief psychotherapy; your situation is unique and your needs are too.
Need to be heard? That is what I am here for. To listen and to explore what hasn't worked, and what has. Regardless of diagnosis, I want to help you with whatever symptoms are affecting you the most, and are your priority to address. I will help guide, but it is just as important that you feel comfortable with the options and any changes we make, every step of the way! I am well versed in psychopharmacology and want my patients to understand and feel comfortable with all our options, from prescription medications, supplements to brief psychotherapy; your situation is unique and your needs are too.
Brent R. Coyle, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with the additional distinction of "Distinguished Fellow," with over 36 years of experience in psychiatry in various settings, including inpatient, academic, and outpatient. Dr. Coyle received his M.D. from The University of Minnesota, Mpls. campus, and he completed his Psychiatric Residency at Wilford Hall, USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. His clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health and well-being.
Brent R. Coyle, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with the additional distinction of "Distinguished Fellow," with over 36 years of experience in psychiatry in various settings, including inpatient, academic, and outpatient. Dr. Coyle received his M.D. from The University of Minnesota, Mpls. campus, and he completed his Psychiatric Residency at Wilford Hall, USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. His clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health and well-being.
Dana McKee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
Hi! I’m Dana McKee, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing at Treasure Valley Psychology. My specialty is mental health evaluation and medication management for conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, and more. I am also certified to treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. This means I am equipped to support people preparing for, in the midst of, and following a pregnancy and during lactation. I happily work with non-birthing partners, intended, and adoptive parents, as well as any non-childbearing adult desiring compassionate and supportive mental health care.
Hi! I’m Dana McKee, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing at Treasure Valley Psychology. My specialty is mental health evaluation and medication management for conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, and more. I am also certified to treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. This means I am equipped to support people preparing for, in the midst of, and following a pregnancy and during lactation. I happily work with non-birthing partners, intended, and adoptive parents, as well as any non-childbearing adult desiring compassionate and supportive mental health care.
At Wellspring, we provide a holistic focus to care by incorporating psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and prescribing mental health medications if indicated, for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children. With a humanistic approach, we encourage clients to actively participate in treatment decisions while providing a safe, supportive environment in order for clients to feel comfortable asking questions, addressing concerns and resolving conflicts.
At Wellspring, we provide a holistic focus to care by incorporating psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and prescribing mental health medications if indicated, for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children. With a humanistic approach, we encourage clients to actively participate in treatment decisions while providing a safe, supportive environment in order for clients to feel comfortable asking questions, addressing concerns and resolving conflicts.
At the heart of my practice lies a commitment to person-centered care. I am guided by evidence-based practices, ensuring that our journey is grounded in approaches backed by research and proven effectiveness. Your path towards mental wellness is unique, and it deserves a tailored approach that resonates with your individual needs and experiences. While therapy modalities play a crucial role in addressing underlying issues and fostering resilience, I also understand that for some, medication can be an essential tool in managing symptoms and restoring balance.
At the heart of my practice lies a commitment to person-centered care. I am guided by evidence-based practices, ensuring that our journey is grounded in approaches backed by research and proven effectiveness. Your path towards mental wellness is unique, and it deserves a tailored approach that resonates with your individual needs and experiences. While therapy modalities play a crucial role in addressing underlying issues and fostering resilience, I also understand that for some, medication can be an essential tool in managing symptoms and restoring balance.
Leslie Pardue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
My approach to care is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I understand that each individual is unique, and I tailor my treatment plans to meet the specific needs and preferences of my patients. Whether it's managing medications or offering guidance and support, I prioritize open communication and active involvement in the decision-making processes. By fostering a therapeutic partnership built on trust and mutual respect, I empower my patients to take control of their mental health journey and work towards their goals.
My approach to care is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I understand that each individual is unique, and I tailor my treatment plans to meet the specific needs and preferences of my patients. Whether it's managing medications or offering guidance and support, I prioritize open communication and active involvement in the decision-making processes. By fostering a therapeutic partnership built on trust and mutual respect, I empower my patients to take control of their mental health journey and work towards their goals.
You are your own most powerful force for change. Don’t count yourself out! If we can develop a plan to improve your mental health and empower you to follow it, your life WILL get better. Whether your anxiety or depression improves, or you find healing from past trauma. If you get stronger, healthier or sleep better, any of those things are a win. You can heal. I want to partner with you to improve your life. I will advocate for you, I will share my expertise and give you guidance. But most importantly, I will help YOU start feeling better.
You are your own most powerful force for change. Don’t count yourself out! If we can develop a plan to improve your mental health and empower you to follow it, your life WILL get better. Whether your anxiety or depression improves, or you find healing from past trauma. If you get stronger, healthier or sleep better, any of those things are a win. You can heal. I want to partner with you to improve your life. I will advocate for you, I will share my expertise and give you guidance. But most importantly, I will help YOU start feeling better.
See more therapy options for Ada County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ada County, ID
100+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Ada County, ID who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Medication Management |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
70% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Ada County, ID see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
31% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ada County?
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.