Psychiatrists in Arizona
![Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd92ab4-232c-4216-96ad-c3b6e9c61b11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Betsy Walton, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12bb00dd-8347-4c25-a5b6-793e8ed4cf53/1/320x400.jpeg)
Experience psychiatric care in a non judgmental setting. I take time to listen to your unique story and work together with you to create a treatment plan. This may include prescription medications, education, non pharmaceutical treatment, and/or self-care strategies. My goal is for you to feel informed and empowered to take charge of your mental health. Treating: Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, mood instability, OCD, sleep issues, schizophrenia and related disorders. At Mindworks, I am here to help you find the solution that works best for you.
Experience psychiatric care in a non judgmental setting. I take time to listen to your unique story and work together with you to create a treatment plan. This may include prescription medications, education, non pharmaceutical treatment, and/or self-care strategies. My goal is for you to feel informed and empowered to take charge of your mental health. Treating: Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, mood instability, OCD, sleep issues, schizophrenia and related disorders. At Mindworks, I am here to help you find the solution that works best for you.
![Photo of Jill Abernathy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67e802fd-eac5-41e8-bec6-9f7d189932c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Abernathy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224 (Online Only)
Jill Abernathy is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Walden University with her Masters of Advance Nursing Practice and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Jill works with patients across the lifespan and has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental health field. Over the years, Jill has gained experience working in diverse settings, including: inpatient psychiatric hospitals, intensive outpatient substance abuse programs, assertive community treatment (ACT), and crisis intervention.
Jill Abernathy is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Walden University with her Masters of Advance Nursing Practice and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Jill works with patients across the lifespan and has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental health field. Over the years, Jill has gained experience working in diverse settings, including: inpatient psychiatric hospitals, intensive outpatient substance abuse programs, assertive community treatment (ACT), and crisis intervention.
![Photo of Charlotte Toms, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6cc2050-46d4-40d0-bb76-a3aacc972fcb/1/320x400.png)
Charlotte Toms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281 (Online Only)
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis, medication management, or therapy. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis, medication management, or therapy. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
![Photo of Melinda M Arias, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09675bfb-93f2-45bb-8b65-ce3d8afb6ae3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda M Arias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85705
My passion is to promote the importance of mental health services within our community and to help those in need to mental health care. With each session, we will work together to develop the best plan of care to obtain your personal goals.
My passion is to promote the importance of mental health services within our community and to help those in need to mental health care. With each session, we will work together to develop the best plan of care to obtain your personal goals.
![Photo of Dominique Sanders - Raelin Bright Wellness, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a92af4b7-03b3-4bdf-b19f-9ab6db81a005/2/320x400.png)
Raelin Bright Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027 (Online Only)
Tired of ER visits due to panic attacks? Do you feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed? Do you experience racing thoughts, trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing? Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated as a number, not a person, when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered; I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
Tired of ER visits due to panic attacks? Do you feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed? Do you experience racing thoughts, trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing? Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated as a number, not a person, when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered; I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
![Photo of Francisca Adaobi Onyemize, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f541fd72-0797-4b99-9029-928e91fc7b81/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francisca Adaobi Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85044 (Online Only)
I believe that stable mental health is achieved when a holistic approach is adopted. I go beyond just writing prescriptions, I also incorporate talk therapy when treating my patients.
I believe that stable mental health is achieved when a holistic approach is adopted. I go beyond just writing prescriptions, I also incorporate talk therapy when treating my patients.
![Photo of Teresa Muriiithi Kangethe - samarhealthcarecom, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10769f34-8be5-4d2c-8517-29a578abaf30/2/320x400.jpeg)
samarhealthcarecom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85029
Time to time as life challenges dictates, we do feel mentally exhausted. Come or Dial so we can discuss ways to refresh our mind and take a health approach of a clean, clear and focused mind. This will be achieved by Therapy and meds management when necessary. Do feel appreciated taking this courageous move. Welcome and Thank you.
Time to time as life challenges dictates, we do feel mentally exhausted. Come or Dial so we can discuss ways to refresh our mind and take a health approach of a clean, clear and focused mind. This will be achieved by Therapy and meds management when necessary. Do feel appreciated taking this courageous move. Welcome and Thank you.
![Photo of Judith N. Nyairo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71fbc0af-adbb-4347-a765-b5475c5d5d98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Judith N. Nyairo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and Mental health diagnoses. My background of more than 15 years in the healthcare field has helped me gain a wealth of knowledge in providing mental health services to patients from all backgrounds. Before becoming a Nurse practitioner, I worked as an RN in dialysis, medical-surgical, long-term care, and inpatient psychiatry. My desire to pursue an Advanced Mental health degree was brought about by the desire to help patients with a growing need for mental health services.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) serving patients of all ages and Mental health diagnoses. My background of more than 15 years in the healthcare field has helped me gain a wealth of knowledge in providing mental health services to patients from all backgrounds. Before becoming a Nurse practitioner, I worked as an RN in dialysis, medical-surgical, long-term care, and inpatient psychiatry. My desire to pursue an Advanced Mental health degree was brought about by the desire to help patients with a growing need for mental health services.
![Photo of Livia Arevalo, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ef22872-adb9-4014-b2ca-7e65aa9947b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Livia Arevalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Hola, you are not alone on your journey to better mental health. I am here to work with you to create a care plan that is individualized to your needs. My name is Livia Arevalo, and I am a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry and Mental Health, as well as Family Practice. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, having trouble concentrating or focusing, and need help managing these feelings, we can work together. My approach is holistic and person-centered, using evidence-based methods that involve medications, nutrition, physical activity, and sleep. I prioritize building a strong relationship with you to better serv
Hola, you are not alone on your journey to better mental health. I am here to work with you to create a care plan that is individualized to your needs. My name is Livia Arevalo, and I am a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry and Mental Health, as well as Family Practice. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, having trouble concentrating or focusing, and need help managing these feelings, we can work together. My approach is holistic and person-centered, using evidence-based methods that involve medications, nutrition, physical activity, and sleep. I prioritize building a strong relationship with you to better serv
![Photo of Stephanie L Winter, RN, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94ca39ed-8d85-4076-82b6-7863515a09fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie L Winter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
At Summit Mental Health & Wellness, PLLC, Stephanie helps provide a compassionate & comprehensive range of services to support your emotional well-being & mental health. Stephanie is committed to partner with you to navigate life's challenges & empower you to lead a fulfilling life. Visit summitmentalhealthaz.com for more information.
At Summit Mental Health & Wellness, PLLC, Stephanie helps provide a compassionate & comprehensive range of services to support your emotional well-being & mental health. Stephanie is committed to partner with you to navigate life's challenges & empower you to lead a fulfilling life. Visit summitmentalhealthaz.com for more information.
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![Photo of Dr. Nicole Lyons, DNP, AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d1e664f-ac47-4802-bb24-3e5ca957b182/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nicole Lyons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85249 (Online Only)
All patients welcome! I'm Dr. Nicole Lyons, my approach to psychiatric care is both empathetic and collaborative. I believe everyone has the potential to make positive changes and live their best lives, with the help of tools I can provide. My hope is that my patients leave their visits with knowledge about their diagnosis and treatment, motivation to continue to make positive changes, a sense of empowerment and to know you are not alone in this journey.
All patients welcome! I'm Dr. Nicole Lyons, my approach to psychiatric care is both empathetic and collaborative. I believe everyone has the potential to make positive changes and live their best lives, with the help of tools I can provide. My hope is that my patients leave their visits with knowledge about their diagnosis and treatment, motivation to continue to make positive changes, a sense of empowerment and to know you are not alone in this journey.
![Photo of Dr. Georgette Quie, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b1a0432-4811-40bb-bd98-c5b652aeb151/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Georgette Quie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
Hello, and thank you for visiting! My name is Georgette Quie, and I am a compassionate and dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Arizona State University, I bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to guide you on your journey toward emotional well-being and mental health. By integrating evidence-based practices with compassion and empathy, I strive to create a safe and nurturing space for you to explore and navigate your mental health journey. I am here to offer a non-judgmental and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions.
Hello, and thank you for visiting! My name is Georgette Quie, and I am a compassionate and dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Arizona State University, I bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to guide you on your journey toward emotional well-being and mental health. By integrating evidence-based practices with compassion and empathy, I strive to create a safe and nurturing space for you to explore and navigate your mental health journey. I am here to offer a non-judgmental and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions.
![Photo of Kimberly Kuopus - Kimberly Kuopus, PMHNP, FNP-C, IBCLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f975e2db-ccf5-4c27-ba21-3ba950193ba2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Kuopus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, IBCLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Is your path clear? Or is life and its hurdles getting in your way? Are frustrations, sadness, irritability, or concentration issues slowing you down? We can help! Through expert and compassionate care, our goal is to help you clear your path and be all you can be. I would like to offer Zensible Psychiatry as a patient focused, compassionate, sensible, and evidence based resource for the people of our community. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric services that can empower you to be all you can be!
Is your path clear? Or is life and its hurdles getting in your way? Are frustrations, sadness, irritability, or concentration issues slowing you down? We can help! Through expert and compassionate care, our goal is to help you clear your path and be all you can be. I would like to offer Zensible Psychiatry as a patient focused, compassionate, sensible, and evidence based resource for the people of our community. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric services that can empower you to be all you can be!
![Photo of Vanessa Arvizu, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d730a267-5358-4cc3-8c9f-7ba30253b193/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ultimately, the patients drawn to integrative psychiatry are typically seeking a collaborative and personalized approach that considers their unique needs and preferences. They value the integration of multiple modalities to support their mental health and overall well-being.
Ultimately, the patients drawn to integrative psychiatry are typically seeking a collaborative and personalized approach that considers their unique needs and preferences. They value the integration of multiple modalities to support their mental health and overall well-being.
![Photo of Cristie Sanborn @ Entune Behavioral Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f74b017-60de-4b87-98c2-fdbbef614bc8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cristie Sanborn @ Entune Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
I value individualized treatment plans tailored to meet your mental health needs and goals by working alongside you on your mental health journey. If you are unsure or not comfortable with the thought of pharmacological interventions to address your needs, I advocate for non-pharmacological interventions that play a vital role in the success of your mental health. These interventions may include sleep hygiene, nutrition, referral to therapy services, and/or addressing overall physical health.
I value individualized treatment plans tailored to meet your mental health needs and goals by working alongside you on your mental health journey. If you are unsure or not comfortable with the thought of pharmacological interventions to address your needs, I advocate for non-pharmacological interventions that play a vital role in the success of your mental health. These interventions may include sleep hygiene, nutrition, referral to therapy services, and/or addressing overall physical health.
![Photo of Matthew Carpinello - Sonoran Psychiatric Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3440d59-6760-4df3-9c2f-f95b7814a564/1/320x400.png)
At Sonoran Psychiatric Care, our ideal client struggles with complex Psychiatric conditions that have been resistant to standard treatments. They may face persistent depression, anxiety, substance abuse, psychosomatic symptoms, or autism. Seeking thorough evaluation and precise, scientifically grounded treatment, they desire a Psychiatrist who understands the intricate connections between physical and mental health. Their goal is to achieve better mental health, find effective treatments, and improve their overall quality of life without the long wait times typical of insurance-based practices.
At Sonoran Psychiatric Care, our ideal client struggles with complex Psychiatric conditions that have been resistant to standard treatments. They may face persistent depression, anxiety, substance abuse, psychosomatic symptoms, or autism. Seeking thorough evaluation and precise, scientifically grounded treatment, they desire a Psychiatrist who understands the intricate connections between physical and mental health. Their goal is to achieve better mental health, find effective treatments, and improve their overall quality of life without the long wait times typical of insurance-based practices.
![Photo of Victoria Sanchez, PMNHPBC, MSFNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7218d715-cfc5-4127-bbce-989183d246ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHPBC, MSFNP-C
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85048
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Ahwatukee Behavioral Health & Wellness with additional board certification as a family nurse practitioner since 2003. I have extensive experience in gestalt therapy plus additional training in behavioral modification and bioenergetics. I am passionate about helping my patients heal personally and with their relationships. My approach focuses on inspiring hope through recognizing choices, strength, and the courage to make even small changes. I believe the process of honest self-discovery and accountability leads to empowerment, resilience, and personal growth.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Ahwatukee Behavioral Health & Wellness with additional board certification as a family nurse practitioner since 2003. I have extensive experience in gestalt therapy plus additional training in behavioral modification and bioenergetics. I am passionate about helping my patients heal personally and with their relationships. My approach focuses on inspiring hope through recognizing choices, strength, and the courage to make even small changes. I believe the process of honest self-discovery and accountability leads to empowerment, resilience, and personal growth.
![Photo of David Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34777335-5c88-4b22-830c-83e5e5c08d0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal clients are adults dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD and/or bipolar disorder. They seek a compassionate professional to understand and manage their conditions. Their goals are to improve mental well-being, gain symptom control, and achieve a balanced life. They desire change, understanding, and strategies to enhance personal and professional relationships, driven by a need for empowerment and improved quality of life.
My ideal clients are adults dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD and/or bipolar disorder. They seek a compassionate professional to understand and manage their conditions. Their goals are to improve mental well-being, gain symptom control, and achieve a balanced life. They desire change, understanding, and strategies to enhance personal and professional relationships, driven by a need for empowerment and improved quality of life.
![Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b50e371-7c9c-4754-a155-f1272e9f08ed/1/320x400.png)
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
See more therapy options for Arizona
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Arizona who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
74% | Medication Management |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Arizona see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
27% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Arizona?
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.