Psychiatrists in 85050
![Photo of Yong Lee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72b15ea0-f005-4256-ab55-1302ab2400d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Yong Lee is one of the most well-liked and respected psychiatrists in Phoenix and is honored with three awards from Vitals.com: 2014 Patients’ Choice Award, On-Time Doctor Award and Compassionate Doctor Recognition.
Dr. Yong Lee is one of the most well-liked and respected psychiatrists in Phoenix and is honored with three awards from Vitals.com: 2014 Patients’ Choice Award, On-Time Doctor Award and Compassionate Doctor Recognition.
![Photo of Elias Ruiloba, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb646f1b-09a1-4bba-ae38-e149cc0fea2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to patient care is to elucidate the needs of the patient in a global context and institute therapy based in that context, while remaining sensitive to individual patient philosophies and remaining on the vanguard of mental health science developments. Mental health is the starting point of whole-body health. It is a framework from where daily decisions are made constantly and consequently have a ripple effect on all aspects of our daily life. There is a clear need for mental health in our age or information. This awareness has led many people to seek professional help and has led to enhanced quality of life.
My approach to patient care is to elucidate the needs of the patient in a global context and institute therapy based in that context, while remaining sensitive to individual patient philosophies and remaining on the vanguard of mental health science developments. Mental health is the starting point of whole-body health. It is a framework from where daily decisions are made constantly and consequently have a ripple effect on all aspects of our daily life. There is a clear need for mental health in our age or information. This awareness has led many people to seek professional help and has led to enhanced quality of life.
![Photo of Winona Belmonte, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/deba44b7-554d-4370-bbe9-fee208d9e032/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am licensed and board-certified in psychiatry and neurology. I am a part of Serenity Mental Health Centers’ clinical team as a seasoned psychiatrist with 18 years’ experience. After earning my medical degree at the University of the East- Ramon Magsaysay Medical Center (UERMMMC) in 1993, I then completed my residency at the University of Virginia Health System, specializing in Psychiatric Medicine. I went on to complete my fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry in 2002 and became Board Certified in the practice of Psychiatry.
I am licensed and board-certified in psychiatry and neurology. I am a part of Serenity Mental Health Centers’ clinical team as a seasoned psychiatrist with 18 years’ experience. After earning my medical degree at the University of the East- Ramon Magsaysay Medical Center (UERMMMC) in 1993, I then completed my residency at the University of Virginia Health System, specializing in Psychiatric Medicine. I went on to complete my fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry in 2002 and became Board Certified in the practice of Psychiatry.
![Photo of Adam Gears - Adam Gears, MEd, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e029d47-202a-46ad-b4df-076a47604113/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Gears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MEd, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Adam, a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management. I'm committed to treating patients with honesty, a touch of humor, and straightforward communication. My main goal is to help patients feel better and regain the life they desire. If medication management isn't the right fit, we'll explore alternative approaches like healthy lifestyle changes, exercise, nutrition, and mindful practices. I'm here for you every step of the way.
Hi there, I'm Adam, a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management. I'm committed to treating patients with honesty, a touch of humor, and straightforward communication. My main goal is to help patients feel better and regain the life they desire. If medication management isn't the right fit, we'll explore alternative approaches like healthy lifestyle changes, exercise, nutrition, and mindful practices. I'm here for you every step of the way.
Dr. Kara Prussing is a board-certified psychiatrist currently seeing patients at Serenity Mental Health Centers. Dr. Prussing joined Serenity in May of 2022. She offers her patients 5 years of experience and an empathetic patient care approach. Dr. Prussing’s patient care philosophy centers on communication and collaboration. She received the Wendy A. Rives award in residency for compassion in working with patients struggling with mental illness and believes that in approaching treatment with humility, respect, understanding, and teamwork, patients can find themselves less symptomatic and more empowered to achieve their goals.
Dr. Kara Prussing is a board-certified psychiatrist currently seeing patients at Serenity Mental Health Centers. Dr. Prussing joined Serenity in May of 2022. She offers her patients 5 years of experience and an empathetic patient care approach. Dr. Prussing’s patient care philosophy centers on communication and collaboration. She received the Wendy A. Rives award in residency for compassion in working with patients struggling with mental illness and believes that in approaching treatment with humility, respect, understanding, and teamwork, patients can find themselves less symptomatic and more empowered to achieve their goals.
![Photo of Lindsey Johnson - The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e02a79af-1b60-4300-97ff-751f4fdc09f9/1/320x400.png)
The Mindful Lemon Marriage and Family Therapy INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above.
![Photo of Jerzy Hubert, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/272fe5a8-a527-4873-a6b3-46ad0b9f9261/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jerzy Hubert, MD, is a licensed, board-certified adult psychiatrist at Serenity Mental Health Centers. His patient care philosophy is driven by a desire to meet patients where they are and help them navigate their struggles during treatment.
Jerzy Hubert, MD, is a licensed, board-certified adult psychiatrist at Serenity Mental Health Centers. His patient care philosophy is driven by a desire to meet patients where they are and help them navigate their struggles during treatment.
![Photo of Dianne DeKeyser, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/190765ce-0c82-4f16-a7f5-6666869b11eb/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have a passion for supporting people in achieving their full potential and experiencing the best quality of life possible. For this reason, I am a passionate advocate for effective treatment and specialize in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine treatments. If you're tired of trying medications for your depression and/or anxiety with no success, I can help you make sense of your feelings and order for you the exciting next generation of treatments which have been found to be far more effective than the traditional medicines we’ve all heard about and possibly even tried.
I have a passion for supporting people in achieving their full potential and experiencing the best quality of life possible. For this reason, I am a passionate advocate for effective treatment and specialize in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine treatments. If you're tired of trying medications for your depression and/or anxiety with no success, I can help you make sense of your feelings and order for you the exciting next generation of treatments which have been found to be far more effective than the traditional medicines we’ve all heard about and possibly even tried.
![Photo of Logan Eli Carton - Back to Life Mental Health LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f682f05d-edae-420f-81ac-00d00b3b9f98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Back to Life Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050
My ideal clients are individuals who have an open mind and motivated for positive change. I love working with genuine, honest and truly good people. My goal is to help individuals be their best selves.
My ideal clients are individuals who have an open mind and motivated for positive change. I love working with genuine, honest and truly good people. My goal is to help individuals be their best selves.
![Photo of James O'hara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2622fd7-4c38-410f-b713-5fd7bad0c084/2/320x400.png)
James O’Hara is a highly trained psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner at Serenity Mental Health Centers in Phoenix, Arizona. James’ approach to patient care is to provide individualized care that is mindful of needs and goals for each patient. James entered the mental health field because he saw the need for mental health care in his community and that it is a constant need. Providing patients with the best care and devotion gives him a sense of satisfaction. Helping patients with their needs and creating an individual care plan gives him a real sense of joy.
James O’Hara is a highly trained psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner at Serenity Mental Health Centers in Phoenix, Arizona. James’ approach to patient care is to provide individualized care that is mindful of needs and goals for each patient. James entered the mental health field because he saw the need for mental health care in his community and that it is a constant need. Providing patients with the best care and devotion gives him a sense of satisfaction. Helping patients with their needs and creating an individual care plan gives him a real sense of joy.
![Photo of Shakera Kathleen Snelling, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75979d92-16e4-4b1a-9008-360e89aec360/1/320x400.png)
Shakera Kathleen Snelling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050
Hey! You’re seeking help because it is needed. That’s huge! Many people don’t seek treatment or therapy but you’re already on this path. Some folks don’t find the path. You’ve got some idea of what you need and are ready for someone to be along with you on this journey. We both know humans succeed in a team not so much when we are alone. First, give yourself credit because it takes a lot of courage to not do things alone and to be willing to open up to someone you do not know. Your courage is where our journey together starts. It would be an honor to be a part of your team in life, for life!
Hey! You’re seeking help because it is needed. That’s huge! Many people don’t seek treatment or therapy but you’re already on this path. Some folks don’t find the path. You’ve got some idea of what you need and are ready for someone to be along with you on this journey. We both know humans succeed in a team not so much when we are alone. First, give yourself credit because it takes a lot of courage to not do things alone and to be willing to open up to someone you do not know. Your courage is where our journey together starts. It would be an honor to be a part of your team in life, for life!
15 Second Videos
Yong Lee
Winona Belmonte
Dianne DeKeyser
Shakera Kathleen Snelling
![Photo of Katrina Dryer, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98f55f82-c002-4971-8c96-488fefe6e1a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katrina Dryer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050 (Online Only)
Our mission at Innovative Healthcare Management is to provide holistic care by treating the whole person. Through evidence-based practices, compassionate support, and patient empowerment, we strive to focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of issues to promote overall well being.
Our mission at Innovative Healthcare Management is to provide holistic care by treating the whole person. Through evidence-based practices, compassionate support, and patient empowerment, we strive to focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of issues to promote overall well being.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511e8ac7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Scottsdale provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Scottsdale provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cafcdf2-3761-4f32-aa1f-32de73638ba1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Shaili Patel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24e440c3-3373-430f-a430-918727b3ce80/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Patel is part of an esteemed group of four female board-certified psychiatrists who have been practicing in the community for 20 yrs. Our practice, Premier Health & Wellness (PHW) works collaboratively with each patient, developing effective mental health treatment plans that consider individual preferences and concerns. At PHW we believe that mental health carries significance on par with physical well-being. Because of this we aim to provide accessible, compassionate and impactful mental health treatment. We accept most major insurances: including United, Cigna, Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medicare and fee for service.
Dr. Patel is part of an esteemed group of four female board-certified psychiatrists who have been practicing in the community for 20 yrs. Our practice, Premier Health & Wellness (PHW) works collaboratively with each patient, developing effective mental health treatment plans that consider individual preferences and concerns. At PHW we believe that mental health carries significance on par with physical well-being. Because of this we aim to provide accessible, compassionate and impactful mental health treatment. We accept most major insurances: including United, Cigna, Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medicare and fee for service.
![Photo of Jack Shier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df7c127-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to promote emotional wellness to the patients and families whom I serve through compassion, respect, and the practice of safe, evidence-based medicine.
I strive to promote emotional wellness to the patients and families whom I serve through compassion, respect, and the practice of safe, evidence-based medicine.
![Photo of Myra Gaius, APRN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be93426e-f477-47f3-a27e-9741bc5200ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Myra Gaius
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling down, anxious, or unsure of the next step to take? If yes, you have come to the right place. As your provider, I will patiently work with you to develop a treatment plan that is unique to your situation. My goal is to help you achieve and maintain peace of mind. I aim to decrease the stigma associated with mental health by encouraging and assisting you to take charge of your health, not just physically but mentally as well. I look forward to assisting you to reach your life goals and live your best life. I encourage you to take a bold step today and begin the process of living the life you desire.
Have you been feeling down, anxious, or unsure of the next step to take? If yes, you have come to the right place. As your provider, I will patiently work with you to develop a treatment plan that is unique to your situation. My goal is to help you achieve and maintain peace of mind. I aim to decrease the stigma associated with mental health by encouraging and assisting you to take charge of your health, not just physically but mentally as well. I look forward to assisting you to reach your life goals and live your best life. I encourage you to take a bold step today and begin the process of living the life you desire.
![Photo of dumebi Uchendu - Woodbridge Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8ef9c1e-c035-4a9f-bd65-bdf2075202cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Woodbridge Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050
Dumebi “D” Uchendu is Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years experience in acute, crisis and General Psychiatry in diverse outpatient and inpatient behavioral health facilities across Phoenix, Arizona metro. He treats a wide range of mental health conditions. With Specialization in Attention Deficit, Hyperactive disorder ( ADHD), Opioid use disorder, (Buprenorphine/ Naloxone medication assisted treatment), Alcohol use Addiction, and Gambling Addiction disorders. He is committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in Psychiatric care and Evidence based Practice.
Dumebi “D” Uchendu is Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years experience in acute, crisis and General Psychiatry in diverse outpatient and inpatient behavioral health facilities across Phoenix, Arizona metro. He treats a wide range of mental health conditions. With Specialization in Attention Deficit, Hyperactive disorder ( ADHD), Opioid use disorder, (Buprenorphine/ Naloxone medication assisted treatment), Alcohol use Addiction, and Gambling Addiction disorders. He is committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in Psychiatric care and Evidence based Practice.
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b3292a8-8f40-4713-99ce-6db5e384257f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d80cb097-7b10-419e-b326-89aeb63ec2dc/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
See more therapy options for 85050
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 85050
20+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in 85050 who prioritize treating:
80% | ADHD |
75% | Depression |
75% | Anxiety |
60% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Bipolar Disorder |
60% | Medication Management |
55% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 85050 see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Male | |
25% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 85050?
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.