Psychiatrists in Albuquerque, NM
Neighborhood NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87102 (Online Only)
About Diverse Health, take control of your health with Diverse Health, the number 1 platform for minority healthcare. We are liberating healthcare for ethnically and culturally diverse minorities, ensuring equity in health and quality in care. Our holistic telehealth services include both virtual primary care and mental health care, offering psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. While our focus is on underserved communities, we proudly provide care for all. Join us in our mission to transform healthcare.
About Diverse Health, take control of your health with Diverse Health, the number 1 platform for minority healthcare. We are liberating healthcare for ethnically and culturally diverse minorities, ensuring equity in health and quality in care. Our holistic telehealth services include both virtual primary care and mental health care, offering psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. While our focus is on underserved communities, we proudly provide care for all. Join us in our mission to transform healthcare.
Alisha Fluker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87121 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Alisha Fluker! I am certified in both psychiatric and women's health care. My specialization focuses on supporting women dealing with postpartum depression and anxiety, as well as general anxiety, depression, and premenstrual issues. I utilize a person-centered, collaborative, and integrative approach in providing medication management services to optimize mental wellness for my clients. I am compassionate, open-minded, non-judgmental, and treat everyone with kindness and respect. I am deliberate in dedicating time to listen attentively, creating an environment where you feel genuinely heard rather than rushed.
Hello! I'm Alisha Fluker! I am certified in both psychiatric and women's health care. My specialization focuses on supporting women dealing with postpartum depression and anxiety, as well as general anxiety, depression, and premenstrual issues. I utilize a person-centered, collaborative, and integrative approach in providing medication management services to optimize mental wellness for my clients. I am compassionate, open-minded, non-judgmental, and treat everyone with kindness and respect. I am deliberate in dedicating time to listen attentively, creating an environment where you feel genuinely heard rather than rushed.
High Desert Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87120
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Elena Crespin is a Doctoral-level, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides quality mental health care. Dr. Crespin is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for adolescents, and adults. Elena completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice at New Mexico State University after being a Registered Nurse for 15 years. Over her course of nursing practice, she has had the privilege of working in many areas, including psychiatry, post-surgical care, gastroenterology, primary care, long term care and addiction medicine. She enjoys working with a variety of age groups.
Dr. Elena Crespin is a Doctoral-level, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides quality mental health care. Dr. Crespin is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for adolescents, and adults. Elena completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice at New Mexico State University after being a Registered Nurse for 15 years. Over her course of nursing practice, she has had the privilege of working in many areas, including psychiatry, post-surgical care, gastroenterology, primary care, long term care and addiction medicine. She enjoys working with a variety of age groups.
Dr. Cruz-Ortiz is a board-certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry and geriatric psychiatry. She is passionate about improving patient’s mental health from age 18 to 100. She believes improving mental health is a journey that involves improving our social connections, our nutrition, exercise and sleep routines and may involve adding pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions when needed. Dr. Cruz-Ortiz is experienced in working with adults, women throughout their pregnancies and older age adults.
Dr. Cruz-Ortiz is a board-certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry and geriatric psychiatry. She is passionate about improving patient’s mental health from age 18 to 100. She believes improving mental health is a journey that involves improving our social connections, our nutrition, exercise and sleep routines and may involve adding pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions when needed. Dr. Cruz-Ortiz is experienced in working with adults, women throughout their pregnancies and older age adults.
Sandra Denise Hobson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87120
Transforming Lives Through Positive Mental Health. At Mindful Healing Psychiatric Mental Health, our mission is to provide compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and we strive to make that a reality for our clients.
Transforming Lives Through Positive Mental Health. At Mindful Healing Psychiatric Mental Health, our mission is to provide compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and we strive to make that a reality for our clients.
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87106 (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.
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87121 (Online Only)
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
BeeWell Medical Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
As a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing holistic care, I am committed to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental wellness. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and evidence-based practices, ensuring that each client receives personalized treatment that meets their unique needs. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be daunting, and I want to assure you that you are not alone on this path.
As a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing holistic care, I am committed to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental wellness. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and evidence-based practices, ensuring that each client receives personalized treatment that meets their unique needs. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be daunting, and I want to assure you that you are not alone on this path.
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87120 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Ross Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87121 (Online Only)
Ross A Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he was an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For 15 years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology. He worked in social services at AIDS Services of Austin in Austin, TX providing case management to individuals with advanced HIV, then completed a postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. He cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA2S+ affirming mental health care.
Ross A Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Masters of Science and Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, where he was an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. For 15 years he worked in preventative cardiology and stroke neurology. He worked in social services at AIDS Services of Austin in Austin, TX providing case management to individuals with advanced HIV, then completed a postmaster certificate as a PMHNP at the University of New Mexico. He cares for patients ages sixteen and older with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and specializes in LGBTQIA2S+ affirming mental health care.
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87113 (Online Only)
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87114 (Online Only)
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Brence Brooks is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020. He received his bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville and his master’s degree in Nursing from Walden University. Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Alisha Fluker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, WHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87120 (Online Only)
Are your relationships suffering because of your current mental state? Are you looking for a provider who will listen and partner with you on your journey to mental wellness? Look no further! I am a doctoral prepared, dual certified psychiatric and women's health nurse practitioner. I provide medication management services via telehealth which means you can be seen from the comfort of your home or office. I utilize a person-centered, integrative, and evidence-based methodology to steer therapeutic interventions. I collaborate with my patients to formulate a customized treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs.
Are your relationships suffering because of your current mental state? Are you looking for a provider who will listen and partner with you on your journey to mental wellness? Look no further! I am a doctoral prepared, dual certified psychiatric and women's health nurse practitioner. I provide medication management services via telehealth which means you can be seen from the comfort of your home or office. I utilize a person-centered, integrative, and evidence-based methodology to steer therapeutic interventions. I collaborate with my patients to formulate a customized treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs.
Dr. Rebeccah Lyles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Accepting new clients for medication management and therapy at the Mind Medicine Clinic in New Mexico. Rebeccah is a BIPOC, queer, and trans-affirming provider who holds space for you to explore what brings you joy. Her intersectional approach reframes experiences, allowing you to untangle and name the personal and societal factors that have stopped you from living your best life. She also prescribes medication to support you along the way.
Accepting new clients for medication management and therapy at the Mind Medicine Clinic in New Mexico. Rebeccah is a BIPOC, queer, and trans-affirming provider who holds space for you to explore what brings you joy. Her intersectional approach reframes experiences, allowing you to untangle and name the personal and societal factors that have stopped you from living your best life. She also prescribes medication to support you along the way.
Lucia Marquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87121 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Lucia Marquez, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in El Paso, TX. With a heart for service and over two decades of diverse medical experience, I bring a unique blend of empathy and expertise to mental health care. My journey began in Mexico as a medical doctor, which laid the foundation for my deep-seated passion for patient care. Transitioning to nursing, I graduated with high honors from the University of Texas at El Paso and have since been recognized with the prestigious Nurse Excellence Award. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I bridge language barriers to provide inclusive care.
Welcome! I'm Lucia Marquez, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in El Paso, TX. With a heart for service and over two decades of diverse medical experience, I bring a unique blend of empathy and expertise to mental health care. My journey began in Mexico as a medical doctor, which laid the foundation for my deep-seated passion for patient care. Transitioning to nursing, I graduated with high honors from the University of Texas at El Paso and have since been recognized with the prestigious Nurse Excellence Award. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I bridge language barriers to provide inclusive care.
Do you or someone you know struggle with depression that has not responded to medications? TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) may be the answer! Deep TMS (dTMS) is a revolutionary depression treatment that has changed the field of mental healthcare, dTMS has been FDA-cleared to safely and effectively treat Major Depressive Disorder through BrainsWay’s patented H-coil technology. Brainsway TMS has been shown to successfully decrease depression 50% or more in 75% patients! Southwest Integrated Behavioral Health is currently accepting new patients for TMS with immediate openings!
Do you or someone you know struggle with depression that has not responded to medications? TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) may be the answer! Deep TMS (dTMS) is a revolutionary depression treatment that has changed the field of mental healthcare, dTMS has been FDA-cleared to safely and effectively treat Major Depressive Disorder through BrainsWay’s patented H-coil technology. Brainsway TMS has been shown to successfully decrease depression 50% or more in 75% patients! Southwest Integrated Behavioral Health is currently accepting new patients for TMS with immediate openings!
Holistic Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87122 (Online Only)
Welcoming new clients - At Holistic Behavioral Health, I embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. As a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I bring over 20 years of experience in delivering high-quality care. My focus is on providing holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering lasting improvement. With a diverse background in both in-patient and outpatient settings, I tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs.
Welcoming new clients - At Holistic Behavioral Health, I embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. As a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I bring over 20 years of experience in delivering high-quality care. My focus is on providing holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering lasting improvement. With a diverse background in both in-patient and outpatient settings, I tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs.
Telepsych 4 You, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CPNP-PC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87111
Halima Goodwin, DNP, CPNP-PC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral prepared, nationally certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has served the nursing field with an emphasis in pediatric primary care and mental health for 20 years.
Halima Goodwin, DNP, CPNP-PC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral prepared, nationally certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has served the nursing field with an emphasis in pediatric primary care and mental health for 20 years.
Adam Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87113 (Online Only)
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
I accept adult patients with all manner of general psychiatric issues. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, women's issues including phase of life challenges and domestic violence, addiction and chronic pain.
I accept adult patients with all manner of general psychiatric issues. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, women's issues including phase of life challenges and domestic violence, addiction and chronic pain.
See more therapy options for Albuquerque
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Albuquerque, NM
100+
Average cost per session
$180
Psychiatrists in Albuquerque, NM who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Medication Management |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Aetna |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Albuquerque, NM see their clients
58% | Online Only | |
42% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Albuquerque?
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.