Psychiatrists in Alaska
Sharon Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503 (Online Only)
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and family medicine primary care. I am deeply committed to helping individuals facing complex mental health challenges. I provide medication management for adults and children. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for personalized, patient-centered care. My goal is to be your trusted partner on the journey to mental well-being, providing support, understanding, and guidance for a fulfilling life. I am committed to being your trusted partner on this transformative journey.
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and family medicine primary care. I am deeply committed to helping individuals facing complex mental health challenges. I provide medication management for adults and children. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for personalized, patient-centered care. My goal is to be your trusted partner on the journey to mental well-being, providing support, understanding, and guidance for a fulfilling life. I am committed to being your trusted partner on this transformative journey.
Dr. Toni Brent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chugiak, AK 99567 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! I am Dr. Toni Brent DNP, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, quality and ethical care with 13 years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping individuals navigate and overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. I offer comprehensive psychiatric assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support for adults struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma-related conditions. I believe in a holistic view of mind, body and soul functioning together for optimal quality of life
Welcome to my practice! I am Dr. Toni Brent DNP, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, quality and ethical care with 13 years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping individuals navigate and overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. I offer comprehensive psychiatric assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support for adults struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma-related conditions. I believe in a holistic view of mind, body and soul functioning together for optimal quality of life
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99507 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurances.
Jeffrey Wright Bayless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99504 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
ND Systems
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kenai, AK 99611 (Online Only)
Children are our future. As parents, we love them and want the best for them, but feel helpless sometimes in how to help them meet their mental health needs. Sometimes we become aware of a mean dialogue in our heads toward ourselves. This can cause pain and suffering, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
Children are our future. As parents, we love them and want the best for them, but feel helpless sometimes in how to help them meet their mental health needs. Sometimes we become aware of a mean dialogue in our heads toward ourselves. This can cause pain and suffering, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
Jessica Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CS-P, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
Jessica Wilson, PMHNP Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board Certified, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist, Board Certified, Legal Nurse Consultant, Forensic Psychiatry. Ms. Wilson conducts evaluations, determines diagnoses, and provides medication management for all psychiatric disorders. She obtained her Master of Science as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Clinical Specialist from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Ms. Wilson works for your mental health with a kind, professional and knowledgeable approach.
Jessica Wilson, PMHNP Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board Certified, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist, Board Certified, Legal Nurse Consultant, Forensic Psychiatry. Ms. Wilson conducts evaluations, determines diagnoses, and provides medication management for all psychiatric disorders. She obtained her Master of Science as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Clinical Specialist from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Ms. Wilson works for your mental health with a kind, professional and knowledgeable approach.
Shannon Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, AGACNP
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
I moved to Alaska In July 2021 from Tennessee . I had been providing telehealth for two years in Alaska. I decided to move my family to open a practice to be more active in the community. I am a daughter and wife of a Veteran. I have a passion for mental health, addiction, and alternative treatments. My special interest is ADHD because I was diagnosed with this late in life and had another provider wrongly diagnosis me with PTSD. I also specialize in anxiety and bipolar along with other diagnoses. Ketamine and TMS along with other alternative treatments are a passion of mine.
I moved to Alaska In July 2021 from Tennessee . I had been providing telehealth for two years in Alaska. I decided to move my family to open a practice to be more active in the community. I am a daughter and wife of a Veteran. I have a passion for mental health, addiction, and alternative treatments. My special interest is ADHD because I was diagnosed with this late in life and had another provider wrongly diagnosis me with PTSD. I also specialize in anxiety and bipolar along with other diagnoses. Ketamine and TMS along with other alternative treatments are a passion of mine.
I specialize in supporting first responders grappling with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The high-pressure demands of your work can intensify these conditions, requiring focused and effective interventions. It may cause issues with sleep, making it difficult to fall and stay asleep at night. Beyond active service, I specialize in guiding first responders through the difficulties of life after service. If you are a first responder seeking specialized care amidst the challenges of your profession, my therapeutic approach is crafted to address the complexities of your unique experiences and needs.
I specialize in supporting first responders grappling with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The high-pressure demands of your work can intensify these conditions, requiring focused and effective interventions. It may cause issues with sleep, making it difficult to fall and stay asleep at night. Beyond active service, I specialize in guiding first responders through the difficulties of life after service. If you are a first responder seeking specialized care amidst the challenges of your profession, my therapeutic approach is crafted to address the complexities of your unique experiences and needs.
Open Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501 (Online Only)
At Open Mind Psychiatry, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with dignity and understanding. Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Doctorate prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Egemasi has over 10 years of experience in providing quality care. She believes in providing holistic, integrative, and individualized care to her clients. She is passionate about helping people with decreasing their stressors.
At Open Mind Psychiatry, we believe in an integrative approach to HEALING that addresses your unique struggles with dignity and understanding. Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Doctorate prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Egemasi has over 10 years of experience in providing quality care. She believes in providing holistic, integrative, and individualized care to her clients. She is passionate about helping people with decreasing their stressors.
Zan Whitman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
Outpatient psychiatric assessment and medication management treatment for children (4+), adolescents, and adults. In person and telehealth options available.
Outpatient psychiatric assessment and medication management treatment for children (4+), adolescents, and adults. In person and telehealth options available.
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508 (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a distinguished Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a distinguished Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
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I am an Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, which means I am a nurse with advanced practice and training in a wide range of mental health services. My approach: You and I will work together to understand your mental health symptoms and their causes. I develop your personal treatment plan that will include strategies for behavioral changes and medication management. Overall, the goal is for me to coach and support you to better mental health.
I am an Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, which means I am a nurse with advanced practice and training in a wide range of mental health services. My approach: You and I will work together to understand your mental health symptoms and their causes. I develop your personal treatment plan that will include strategies for behavioral changes and medication management. Overall, the goal is for me to coach and support you to better mental health.
David N Ampong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Alaska Treatment Center offers individual and group psychotherapy in addition to medication management. Dr. Ampong is the owner of Alaska Treatment Center. He is a board-certified advanced psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialty in addiction services. He provides mental health services for individuals with mental illness and those struggling with substance and alcohol abuse. Dr. Ampong focuses on the individual's unique needs through a biopsychosocial evaluation and cutting-edge psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.
Alaska Treatment Center offers individual and group psychotherapy in addition to medication management. Dr. Ampong is the owner of Alaska Treatment Center. He is a board-certified advanced psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialty in addiction services. He provides mental health services for individuals with mental illness and those struggling with substance and alcohol abuse. Dr. Ampong focuses on the individual's unique needs through a biopsychosocial evaluation and cutting-edge psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.
I believe people are more than just a diagnosis, and I take my time with you to figure out the best possible plan for you as an individual. Over my career I have worked with clients in the hospital, in community outpatient clinics, as well as in the private practice setting where I am now. I have spent the majority of my time as an APRN working in rural areas and have gained a broad range of experience treating all mental health disorders including addiction. My practice is centered on providing the best quality of care focused on treatment that encompasses all aspects of one’s life to achieve wellness.
I believe people are more than just a diagnosis, and I take my time with you to figure out the best possible plan for you as an individual. Over my career I have worked with clients in the hospital, in community outpatient clinics, as well as in the private practice setting where I am now. I have spent the majority of my time as an APRN working in rural areas and have gained a broad range of experience treating all mental health disorders including addiction. My practice is centered on providing the best quality of care focused on treatment that encompasses all aspects of one’s life to achieve wellness.
Hello, I have treated Alaskans since 2018 when I moved to Kodiak. I have since moved to WA state but am still very much involved with and enjoy working with Alaskan patients. I am a board certified psychiatrist and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Washington after finishing medical school at the University of California, San Diego. I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Hello, I have treated Alaskans since 2018 when I moved to Kodiak. I have since moved to WA state but am still very much involved with and enjoy working with Alaskan patients. I am a board certified psychiatrist and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Washington after finishing medical school at the University of California, San Diego. I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Hello, my ideal client wants to work with me over time to feel better about themselves and their lives. The client may want to discuss medications for mental health symptoms or may want to talk and share. I will meet them where they are. We will come up with a plan together. If the client is a child we may start with playing a game or coloring. I hope the client will be honest with me and learn to trust me. I won't be shocked by anything. I've worked with people from all walks of life.
Hello, my ideal client wants to work with me over time to feel better about themselves and their lives. The client may want to discuss medications for mental health symptoms or may want to talk and share. I will meet them where they are. We will come up with a plan together. If the client is a child we may start with playing a game or coloring. I hope the client will be honest with me and learn to trust me. I won't be shocked by anything. I've worked with people from all walks of life.
Kelly Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kenai, AK 99611 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kelly! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I offer therapy and medication management services. I let curiosity and compassion lead me in life and I bring this to my practice style. I've grown up in Alaska and have been a nurse serving urban and remote areas ranging from Ketchikan to Kotzebue. A change in location has led me to start offering telehealth services to better serve a wide range of locations. I am an avid encourager of increased physical activity, connection to nature, and healthy self inquiry. I aim to work with you in your own self-healing to live the life that is most meaningful and authentic to you.
Hi, I'm Kelly! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I offer therapy and medication management services. I let curiosity and compassion lead me in life and I bring this to my practice style. I've grown up in Alaska and have been a nurse serving urban and remote areas ranging from Ketchikan to Kotzebue. A change in location has led me to start offering telehealth services to better serve a wide range of locations. I am an avid encourager of increased physical activity, connection to nature, and healthy self inquiry. I aim to work with you in your own self-healing to live the life that is most meaningful and authentic to you.
Susan A Bryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Welcome! I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My office, Empowerment Mental Health LLC, is located here in Anchorage, Alaska. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments. I understand reaching out for help is difficult and I try to make the process as straightforward as possible. I strive to genuinely listen to your concerns in an open and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to assist you to improve your mental health and help you find hope for a better future. - - -Please visit my website to complete a confidential screening form or contact my office.
Welcome! I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My office, Empowerment Mental Health LLC, is located here in Anchorage, Alaska. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments. I understand reaching out for help is difficult and I try to make the process as straightforward as possible. I strive to genuinely listen to your concerns in an open and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to assist you to improve your mental health and help you find hope for a better future. - - -Please visit my website to complete a confidential screening form or contact my office.
I know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. I also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why I'm here, and am doing things differently. I can offer traditional care, or some alternative methods. My ultimate goal is to meet you where you're at and tailor your care specifically to your needs.
I know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. I also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why I'm here, and am doing things differently. I can offer traditional care, or some alternative methods. My ultimate goal is to meet you where you're at and tailor your care specifically to your needs.
Catherine Haese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
I provide psychiatric medication assessment and management for children (4+), adolescents, and adults. I will provide a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to give an accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan, which may include psychiatric medications and/or non-pharmacological interventions. With mental health expertise, and compassion, I can confidently guide you to start your mental health healing journey. I look forward to working with you!
I provide psychiatric medication assessment and management for children (4+), adolescents, and adults. I will provide a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to give an accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan, which may include psychiatric medications and/or non-pharmacological interventions. With mental health expertise, and compassion, I can confidently guide you to start your mental health healing journey. I look forward to working with you!
See more therapy options for Alaska
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in Alaska who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
90% | Medication Management |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
66% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
61% | Premera Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Alaska see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Alaska?
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.