Psychiatrists in 85253

Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(623) 462-4033 View (623) 462-4033
Photo of Brook Choulet - The Performance Psychiatrist: Brook Choulet, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
The Performance Psychiatrist: Brook Choulet, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dr. Brook Choulet, M.D., nationally recognized as The Performance Psychiatrist, stands at the pinnacle of her field as a board-certified concierge psychiatrist and founder of Choulet Performance Psychiatry. Dr. Choulet has a passion for helping high-achieving professionals, top executives, professional athletes, & their families reach their potential through personalized, concierge mental health services. As the premier psychiatrist in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, she is a leader in the field of sports psychiatry, serving as President of the American Board of Sports & Performance Psychiatry.
Dr. Brook Choulet, M.D., nationally recognized as The Performance Psychiatrist, stands at the pinnacle of her field as a board-certified concierge psychiatrist and founder of Choulet Performance Psychiatry. Dr. Choulet has a passion for helping high-achieving professionals, top executives, professional athletes, & their families reach their potential through personalized, concierge mental health services. As the premier psychiatrist in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, she is a leader in the field of sports psychiatry, serving as President of the American Board of Sports & Performance Psychiatry.
(480) 608-9669 View (480) 608-9669
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(623) 462-2504 View (623) 462-2504
Photo of Diane Papke, MD, Psychiatrist
Diane Papke
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
I am a no nonsense psychiatrist who believes in “propelling people forward”. I enjoy my work and want to collaborate with you meet you in the middle to attain your goal in wellness and make your dreams a reality.
I am a no nonsense psychiatrist who believes in “propelling people forward”. I enjoy my work and want to collaborate with you meet you in the middle to attain your goal in wellness and make your dreams a reality.
(623) 292-4016 View (623) 292-4016
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(623) 280-1937 View (623) 280-1937
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(623) 278-8463 View (623) 278-8463
Photo of Matthew Montgomery, MD, Psychiatrist
Matthew Montgomery
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
Matthew Montgomery, M.D. is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His work with complex psychiatric patients in numerous practice settings makes him uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat a broad range of patients. Dr. Montgomery's approach includes a thorough diagnostic assessment which allows for a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan. While he enjoys working with a variety of patients, he has notable experience working with treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (including PTSD and OCD), and ADHD. His practice includes work with the LGBTQ community.
Matthew Montgomery, M.D. is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His work with complex psychiatric patients in numerous practice settings makes him uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat a broad range of patients. Dr. Montgomery's approach includes a thorough diagnostic assessment which allows for a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan. While he enjoys working with a variety of patients, he has notable experience working with treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (including PTSD and OCD), and ADHD. His practice includes work with the LGBTQ community.
(480) 745-2769 View (480) 745-2769
Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(623) 263-9671 View (623) 263-9671
Photo of Michael Bowen, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Bowen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Mental health is a concept that is impacted by so many aspects of our lives. From achievements to losses, our mental health story is continually written. Some carry heavier burdens than others, but everyone can work to better understand themselves and take steps to improve how they manage the difficulties inherent to challenges, and by doing so grow. I will do my best to get to understand you and help you place your anxiety or mood disturbance in the right context so that you can either let it go or carry it differently, leaving you to move forward and achieve your goals for your present and future.
Mental health is a concept that is impacted by so many aspects of our lives. From achievements to losses, our mental health story is continually written. Some carry heavier burdens than others, but everyone can work to better understand themselves and take steps to improve how they manage the difficulties inherent to challenges, and by doing so grow. I will do my best to get to understand you and help you place your anxiety or mood disturbance in the right context so that you can either let it go or carry it differently, leaving you to move forward and achieve your goals for your present and future.
(480) 660-3571 View (480) 660-3571
Photo of Katherine Gallardo, MD, Psychiatrist
Katherine Gallardo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
My practice philosophy combines expert knowledge about psychiatric conditions & treatments with mindfulness. Medications can be intimidating and bring feelings of hesitation. I can help you make an informed decision about medications and explain in a way that makes you feel supported. For those that want to understand the deeper meaning of life events and ties to symptoms, my strong training in psychotherapy can help you foster deeper understanding and awareness.
My practice philosophy combines expert knowledge about psychiatric conditions & treatments with mindfulness. Medications can be intimidating and bring feelings of hesitation. I can help you make an informed decision about medications and explain in a way that makes you feel supported. For those that want to understand the deeper meaning of life events and ties to symptoms, my strong training in psychotherapy can help you foster deeper understanding and awareness.
(602) 932-6602 View (602) 932-6602
Photo of Francisca Onyemize, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
(623) 278-6764 View (623) 278-6764
Photo of Michael DePalma - One Psychiatry Dr. DePalma, DO, Psychiatrist
One Psychiatry Dr. DePalma
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Please go to onepsychiatry.com to schedule appointments and for more information about my practice or call us. I use a combination of methods tailored to each individual patient. Methods used range from medication management to psychotherapy to mindfulness based therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and drawing from a broad background in psychopharmacology, molecular biology and combining this psychotherapy training. I am a non-judgmental a provider that will use every tool in my arsenal to help you . To schedule an appointment or to get more information, see onepsychiatry.com. To
Please go to onepsychiatry.com to schedule appointments and for more information about my practice or call us. I use a combination of methods tailored to each individual patient. Methods used range from medication management to psychotherapy to mindfulness based therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients and drawing from a broad background in psychopharmacology, molecular biology and combining this psychotherapy training. I am a non-judgmental a provider that will use every tool in my arsenal to help you . To schedule an appointment or to get more information, see onepsychiatry.com. To
(602) 960-0623 View (602) 960-0623
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(623) 377-7952 View (623) 377-7952
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(623) 286-3835 View (623) 286-3835
Photo of Emily David, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily David
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
I am a licensed and certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner treating patients who are at least 15 years (15 years to 75 years). I provide comprehensive online psychiatry services (telehealth), you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same mental services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. Currently accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluation, medication management and individual therapy, You can book a video appointment right now.
I am a licensed and certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner treating patients who are at least 15 years (15 years to 75 years). I provide comprehensive online psychiatry services (telehealth), you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same mental services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. Currently accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluation, medication management and individual therapy, You can book a video appointment right now.
(971) 309-8821 View (971) 309-8821
Photo of Persia Coleman - Persia the Psych NP , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Persia the Psych NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
Feeling drained, stressed, and overwhelmed with everyday life? Struggling to balance work and family? Do you have a tendency to procrastinate, frequently forget appointments, and miss important deadlines? If this resonates with you, you might be wondering, "What steps can I take?" Now is the time to connect with a specialist and reclaim your life. I offer personalized mental health care focused specifically on your needs. From diagnosing and treating mental health conditions to providing education and prescribing medications, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can restore balance and well-being to your life.
Feeling drained, stressed, and overwhelmed with everyday life? Struggling to balance work and family? Do you have a tendency to procrastinate, frequently forget appointments, and miss important deadlines? If this resonates with you, you might be wondering, "What steps can I take?" Now is the time to connect with a specialist and reclaim your life. I offer personalized mental health care focused specifically on your needs. From diagnosing and treating mental health conditions to providing education and prescribing medications, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can restore balance and well-being to your life.
(702) 935-5583 View (702) 935-5583
Photo of Joshua Kanner, MD, Psychiatrist
Joshua Kanner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist practicing in private practice in North Central Phoenix. I believe in the unique complexity of every individual. As such, I try to understand the many factors that contribute to the development of symptoms: biological, psychological, genetic, and social. I strive to form an authentic therapeutic relationship with each client to ease the pain of mental illness and to help clients obtain the tools needed to reach their fullest potential.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist practicing in private practice in North Central Phoenix. I believe in the unique complexity of every individual. As such, I try to understand the many factors that contribute to the development of symptoms: biological, psychological, genetic, and social. I strive to form an authentic therapeutic relationship with each client to ease the pain of mental illness and to help clients obtain the tools needed to reach their fullest potential.
(602) 899-1165 View (602) 899-1165
Photo of Kathryn Kanner, MD, Psychiatrist
Kathryn Kanner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist practicing in private practice in North Central Phoenix. I treat each client as an individual with his/her own unique history, story, and mental health needs. My approach is collaborative, compassionate and respectful. I very much enjoy helping clients discover that they can bring about changes in the here-and-now by building a therapeutic alliance and challenging their old ways of thinking and behaving. The use of medications is carefully considered and done in a safe and evidence based manner.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist practicing in private practice in North Central Phoenix. I treat each client as an individual with his/her own unique history, story, and mental health needs. My approach is collaborative, compassionate and respectful. I very much enjoy helping clients discover that they can bring about changes in the here-and-now by building a therapeutic alliance and challenging their old ways of thinking and behaving. The use of medications is carefully considered and done in a safe and evidence based manner.
(602) 900-8598 View (602) 900-8598
Photo of Marie Gronley, MD, Psychiatrist
Marie Gronley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
As Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, I treat patients suffering from Anxiety Disorders including Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder. You may visit my website directly PsychiatristScottsdale.com
As Psychiatrist in Scottsdale, I treat patients suffering from Anxiety Disorders including Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder. You may visit my website directly PsychiatristScottsdale.com
(480) 808-9445 View (480) 808-9445
Photo of Erik W Bjorndal, DO, Psychiatrist
Erik W Bjorndal
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
You’re ready to reconnect with your best self, perform at your peak, and maximize your potential. You know how it feels to create and perform in your flow state: you're completely in the moment, doing what you love to do, at your best. In the studio, your creativity flows and finds its voice. On the field or in the ring, your practice and training are a seamless part of you. Professionally, you can see all the moving parts and orchestrate them together in the most optimal way. Yet, you’re having trouble connecting with that version of yourself. You’re getting stuck in your head and not performing at the level you know is in you.
You’re ready to reconnect with your best self, perform at your peak, and maximize your potential. You know how it feels to create and perform in your flow state: you're completely in the moment, doing what you love to do, at your best. In the studio, your creativity flows and finds its voice. On the field or in the ring, your practice and training are a seamless part of you. Professionally, you can see all the moving parts and orchestrate them together in the most optimal way. Yet, you’re having trouble connecting with that version of yourself. You’re getting stuck in your head and not performing at the level you know is in you.
(623) 304-7628 View (623) 304-7628
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 85253

40+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 85253 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
87% Depression
83% ADHD
77% Trauma and PTSD
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Medication Management
72% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
96% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 85253 see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 85253?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.