Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ
![Photo of Zakary Call - Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93dd8eb8-089c-4c1a-b7ca-930fbc6347ce/1/320x400.png)
At Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry we offer care for a variety of mental health conditions and lifestyle challenges. We work to empower you in your mental health journey by equipping you with resources and knowledge to overcome obstacles. Why Phoenix Pointe? We approach psychiatric care with a patient-centered commitment. We are passionate about understanding YOU, not just your condition.
At Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry we offer care for a variety of mental health conditions and lifestyle challenges. We work to empower you in your mental health journey by equipping you with resources and knowledge to overcome obstacles. Why Phoenix Pointe? We approach psychiatric care with a patient-centered commitment. We are passionate about understanding YOU, not just your condition.
![Photo of Lleva Groves, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4351f177-f02d-4a7b-919d-e48786e111d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lleva Groves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Embarking on the journey towards mental wellness requires courage, support, and a trusted ally. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am honored to walk alongside individuals as they navigate the complexities of their mental health. Rooted in a deep sense of empathy and fueled by a passion for fostering resilience, my mission is to provide comprehensive, personalized care that empowers patients to reclaim control over their lives
Embarking on the journey towards mental wellness requires courage, support, and a trusted ally. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am honored to walk alongside individuals as they navigate the complexities of their mental health. Rooted in a deep sense of empathy and fueled by a passion for fostering resilience, my mission is to provide comprehensive, personalized care that empowers patients to reclaim control over their lives
![Photo of Tyler Kimsey Aman - Thriving Mind Solutions, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe5dd18a-7017-421f-8e92-3772c7747502/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our patients come from all walks of life with varied backgrounds. If you have ever left a provider feeling like you haven’t been heard, you will experience a completely different level of care with Tyler. Taking the time to listen, giving you all the options available from medication to alternative interventions, are her specialties. If you have difficulty with focus, concentration, procrastination, anxiety, depression, or just need a medication evaluation, Tyler and Thriving Mind Solutions are here to help.
Our patients come from all walks of life with varied backgrounds. If you have ever left a provider feeling like you haven’t been heard, you will experience a completely different level of care with Tyler. Taking the time to listen, giving you all the options available from medication to alternative interventions, are her specialties. If you have difficulty with focus, concentration, procrastination, anxiety, depression, or just need a medication evaluation, Tyler and Thriving Mind Solutions are here to help.
![Photo of Allysen Kelly, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5aa4be8f-15a5-4eb2-94b3-f55c5925c63c/1/320x400.png)
Allysen Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Hi there! I am accepting new clients from anywhere in Arizona. I started Her Season Behavioral Wellness and Psychiatry as a women-focused approach to mental health. I help women navigate each season of life with confidence and resilience. From the excitement and challenges of that young adults face, to the joys and complexities of motherhood, and on to the wisdom and perspective of womanhood, I am committed to helping you achieve optimal wellbeing. Women face unique challenges throughout their lives, which is why I offer personalized mental health and a wide range of services tailored to your specific needs.
Hi there! I am accepting new clients from anywhere in Arizona. I started Her Season Behavioral Wellness and Psychiatry as a women-focused approach to mental health. I help women navigate each season of life with confidence and resilience. From the excitement and challenges of that young adults face, to the joys and complexities of motherhood, and on to the wisdom and perspective of womanhood, I am committed to helping you achieve optimal wellbeing. Women face unique challenges throughout their lives, which is why I offer personalized mental health and a wide range of services tailored to your specific needs.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02c6efcb-72f0-4f4b-bf94-0574e227811b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
![Photo of Matthew Deise, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb6875d0-c6a1-4922-a95a-e366d12475c0/1/320x400.png)
Matthew is a native of Arizona and has been working in mental health for the last 20 years. He has provided care to our community in diverse care settings including psychiatric hospitals, outpatient mental health centers, psychiatric home health, and telepsychiatry. Matthew is passionate about providing high quality psychiatric care services to all members of our community and greatly enjoys working with patients from diverse backgrounds. Matthew is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and received his education in this specialty at Maryville University of St. Louis.
Matthew is a native of Arizona and has been working in mental health for the last 20 years. He has provided care to our community in diverse care settings including psychiatric hospitals, outpatient mental health centers, psychiatric home health, and telepsychiatry. Matthew is passionate about providing high quality psychiatric care services to all members of our community and greatly enjoys working with patients from diverse backgrounds. Matthew is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and received his education in this specialty at Maryville University of St. Louis.
![Photo of Benitho Louissaint, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfb394b-b909-44ed-8fb1-62ed230746a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Benitho Louissaint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Mission statement: Samaria Behavioral Health Center’s (SBHC) mission strives to provide the highest level of mental wellness for the community. The clients range from adolescents to geriatric patients. We promise to provide culturally competent, comprehensive, compassionate, evidence-based, wellness-focused care that promotes a safe space for optimal mental health recovery.
Mission statement: Samaria Behavioral Health Center’s (SBHC) mission strives to provide the highest level of mental wellness for the community. The clients range from adolescents to geriatric patients. We promise to provide culturally competent, comprehensive, compassionate, evidence-based, wellness-focused care that promotes a safe space for optimal mental health recovery.
![Photo of Nikkita Dinnella, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ea03958-001c-4060-a38d-6246f1802b54/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nikkita Dinnella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
I aim to serve anyone grappling with the challenges of mental health issues or addiction. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based care. If you are seeking someone who can collaborate with you and personalize your treatment to your unique needs, please consider a new patient consultation. Together, we can navigate the challenges that have been affecting your life and work towards a brighter future.
I aim to serve anyone grappling with the challenges of mental health issues or addiction. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based care. If you are seeking someone who can collaborate with you and personalize your treatment to your unique needs, please consider a new patient consultation. Together, we can navigate the challenges that have been affecting your life and work towards a brighter future.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dfd2407-900d-49fe-b17b-25e3cbc5cf37/1/320x400.png)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group 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 Medical Group 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. Anthony Quinn, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/738afda3-8a3f-4104-b79c-9ae6a6b2c6f4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate Availability! Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. My interest in practicing psychiatry stems from a passion and desire to form meaningful connections with other people. Building self-esteem, increasing resilience, and expanding personal development are all involved in my daily work with patients.
Immediate Availability! Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. My interest in practicing psychiatry stems from a passion and desire to form meaningful connections with other people. Building self-esteem, increasing resilience, and expanding personal development are all involved in my daily work with patients.
![Photo of Vicki McLeod, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c1f2d25-97e0-4262-a4c9-f32a4bbb4da7/1/320x400.png)
I'm Vicki McLeod, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of experience in mental health care. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anger issues, behavioral complaints, or specific women's issues, I'm here to offer comprehensive and compassionate support. If you're struggling with the complexities of mental health issues or the challenges brought about by life changes, know that you're not alone. Choosing me as your mental health partner means entrusting your journey to someone who is not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to your well-being.
I'm Vicki McLeod, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of experience in mental health care. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anger issues, behavioral complaints, or specific women's issues, I'm here to offer comprehensive and compassionate support. If you're struggling with the complexities of mental health issues or the challenges brought about by life changes, know that you're not alone. Choosing me as your mental health partner means entrusting your journey to someone who is not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to your well-being.
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![Photo of Samantha Kragel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a75b39a7-f4da-4337-be75-f63a5b9731f6/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have worked in the healthcare field for 13 years. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Cedarville University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. I started my career at Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital in 2008 and have always had a passion for working with children and adolescents. Throughout my career, I came to realize the overwhelming need for quality mental health care for our youth, and this really sparked my interest in helping people of all ages who struggle with mental health.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have worked in the healthcare field for 13 years. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Cedarville University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. I started my career at Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital in 2008 and have always had a passion for working with children and adolescents. Throughout my career, I came to realize the overwhelming need for quality mental health care for our youth, and this really sparked my interest in helping people of all ages who struggle with mental health.
![Photo of Wendy Aragaki - Elevate Mental Health and Wellness PLLC, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7783fa67-c288-4a94-9c73-bc19ca576354/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elevate Mental Health and Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85288
Hello! Accepting NEW in-person and telehealth visits. Evening and Saturday hours. We can schedule you typically with within 48 hours. Our office is in Tempe AZ, easy access off the 202. My dedication is serving others through compassionate patient-centered care and culturally sensitive care. As a mental health practitioner, I provide evidenced based treatment across the lifespan, working with children ages 6 and older, adolescents, and adults up to age 80. I love partnering with my patients to work towards a healthier path. All of my patients are provided individualized treatment that serves their needs.
Hello! Accepting NEW in-person and telehealth visits. Evening and Saturday hours. We can schedule you typically with within 48 hours. Our office is in Tempe AZ, easy access off the 202. My dedication is serving others through compassionate patient-centered care and culturally sensitive care. As a mental health practitioner, I provide evidenced based treatment across the lifespan, working with children ages 6 and older, adolescents, and adults up to age 80. I love partnering with my patients to work towards a healthier path. All of my patients are provided individualized treatment that serves their needs.
![Photo of Sarah Jennings, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc2b14a7-c801-4971-8e61-e1741260b44d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Jennings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have always had a passion for helping people obtain better mental healthcare. I like to collaborate with my patients to ensure that they can make educated decisions about their mental health treatment options. I currently specialize in serving adolescents and adults with mental health disorders or concerns. I look forward to meeting you at Iridescent Counseling's peaceful office space. Tele-med is available as well.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have always had a passion for helping people obtain better mental healthcare. I like to collaborate with my patients to ensure that they can make educated decisions about their mental health treatment options. I currently specialize in serving adolescents and adults with mental health disorders or concerns. I look forward to meeting you at Iridescent Counseling's peaceful office space. Tele-med is available as well.
![Photo of Rebecca Reza, PMHNP, MSN, RN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94366447-452e-4846-be43-9f9eeb8ca872/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Reza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN, APRN
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Do you struggle with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma? Experience mood swings or suffer from low self-esteem? Experience challenges that negatively affect your life? I am here to help! I am a board-certified PMHNP, & the founder-owner of Tabula Rasa Psychiatry & Wellness. I also offer services at Northlight Counseling Associates of AZ. My goal is to give you the tools you need to improve your mental health & overall wellness, through self-discovery & empowerment. Together, we will explore your personal goals & experiences, & formulate a holistic treatment plan that aligns with your values and beliefs.
Do you struggle with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma? Experience mood swings or suffer from low self-esteem? Experience challenges that negatively affect your life? I am here to help! I am a board-certified PMHNP, & the founder-owner of Tabula Rasa Psychiatry & Wellness. I also offer services at Northlight Counseling Associates of AZ. My goal is to give you the tools you need to improve your mental health & overall wellness, through self-discovery & empowerment. Together, we will explore your personal goals & experiences, & formulate a holistic treatment plan that aligns with your values and beliefs.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ed0c42-46cd-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 Medical Group 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 Medical Group 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 Danielle Putrow, PsyNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d5553f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are looking for an experienced prescriber who doesn't throw a bunch of meds at you, that's me. I have decades of experience in child/ adolescent/ young adult psychiatry- performing psychiatric evaluations (which is the first appointment, when we chat about you and what's concerning you), making diagnoses, and discussing meds. My ultimate goal is that you feel comfortable. We will talk about you / your child as a whole person. I schedule lots of time in our early appointments to make sure your questions get answered. I have a dedicated receptionist and respond promptly to portal messages when concerns pop up.
If you are looking for an experienced prescriber who doesn't throw a bunch of meds at you, that's me. I have decades of experience in child/ adolescent/ young adult psychiatry- performing psychiatric evaluations (which is the first appointment, when we chat about you and what's concerning you), making diagnoses, and discussing meds. My ultimate goal is that you feel comfortable. We will talk about you / your child as a whole person. I schedule lots of time in our early appointments to make sure your questions get answered. I have a dedicated receptionist and respond promptly to portal messages when concerns pop up.
![Photo of Topher Bradshaw - Alevea Mental Health, PA-C, MSPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0100f83-d506-4c80-8a22-85f633b59dc8/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Alevea Mental Health, we understand that each individual is unique, and that's why we're committed to providing personalized, integrative mental healthcare that meets you where you are. From a range of conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD to more complex psychiatric conditions, our experienced team of dedicated and compassionate providers tailor treatment plans to suit your specific needs. What sets us apart is our holistic approach that combines psychiatric medication management with evidence-based counseling services, primary care, and psychedelic therapy.
At Alevea Mental Health, we understand that each individual is unique, and that's why we're committed to providing personalized, integrative mental healthcare that meets you where you are. From a range of conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD to more complex psychiatric conditions, our experienced team of dedicated and compassionate providers tailor treatment plans to suit your specific needs. What sets us apart is our holistic approach that combines psychiatric medication management with evidence-based counseling services, primary care, and psychedelic therapy.
![Photo of Andrea Stults, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ad9092-052f-46e2-b583-a090c517bd46/1/320x400.png)
Feeling like you're under a constant cloud, struggling to find a bit of sunshine? You're not alone. Many of us move through life carrying a weight only we can see, silently questioning if anyone else could truly understand. Recognizing and seeking help for these feelings is a brave step. Imagine for a moment the possibility of lightening this load, allowing your true self to shine through once again. My practice is built on a foundation of compassion using a client-centered approach. We focus on creating a partnership where you feel seen and understood.
Feeling like you're under a constant cloud, struggling to find a bit of sunshine? You're not alone. Many of us move through life carrying a weight only we can see, silently questioning if anyone else could truly understand. Recognizing and seeking help for these feelings is a brave step. Imagine for a moment the possibility of lightening this load, allowing your true self to shine through once again. My practice is built on a foundation of compassion using a client-centered approach. We focus on creating a partnership where you feel seen and understood.
![Photo of Herendira Valdez Shahnaz, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fba2e74-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Herendira Valdez Shahnaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
My name is Dr. Herendira Valdez-Shahnaz, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 16 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey!
My name is Dr. Herendira Valdez-Shahnaz, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 16 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey!
See more therapy options for Tempe
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
82% | ADHD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Tempe?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.