Psychiatrists in Buckeye, AZ
![Photo of Bertha Jones, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac6527b2-8a1b-4e41-8587-88d093250170/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bertha Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85396
Bertha Jones is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry. She has 14 years of combined experience as a registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She specializes in developing a therapeutic relationship with clients to gain insight into their specific symptoms which will prove to be invaluable in diagnosing and medication management. She specializes in a wide range of disorders including, ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD.
Bertha Jones is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry. She has 14 years of combined experience as a registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She specializes in developing a therapeutic relationship with clients to gain insight into their specific symptoms which will prove to be invaluable in diagnosing and medication management. She specializes in a wide range of disorders including, ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD.
![Photo of Yilia Myhre, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95021bc9-221b-4a63-9b96-b3d52e8bc58b/1/320x400.jpeg)
With over 19 years of nursing experience, and being a dual-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, Yilia Myhre specializes in a wide range of disorders for patients ages 6 and up, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, and many more. I am a bilingual provider who will strive to properly diagnose and treat your symptoms using evidenced-based guidelines in an environment that is culturally sensitive, understanding, and caring.
With over 19 years of nursing experience, and being a dual-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, Yilia Myhre specializes in a wide range of disorders for patients ages 6 and up, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, and many more. I am a bilingual provider who will strive to properly diagnose and treat your symptoms using evidenced-based guidelines in an environment that is culturally sensitive, understanding, and caring.
![Photo of Shawn P Gallagher, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/935045e9-b501-458b-9d0c-18236b25b295/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shawn P Gallagher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85396 (Online Only)
I diagnose and treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, and more. Look no further if you are an adult seeking psychiatric medication management services. Convenient telehealth appointments from the comfort of your home.
I diagnose and treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, and more. Look no further if you are an adult seeking psychiatric medication management services. Convenient telehealth appointments from the comfort of your home.
![Photo of Francisca Onyemize, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d72cfed-c989-47be-b3df-c7762e3fb752/2/320x400.png)
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85326
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e8cb19d-278a-4d04-b213-2a14a7de62a1/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Dr. Adaobi Moemenam - Maricopa Christian Psychiatry , DNP, RNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d5ffed8-be2b-4f48-a42d-8683645b4999/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maricopa Christian Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85326 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. Adaobi Moemenam is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. She has 10 years of experience as a Nurse practitioner and over 13 years of nursing experience across various settings. She believes in a holistic approach to care and is passionate about changing the narrative and stigma associated with mental illness. She incorporates evidenced-based and compassionate care in her approach. She specializes in Anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, and sleep disorders. She sees children, teens, and adults.
Accepting New Patients. Adaobi Moemenam is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. She has 10 years of experience as a Nurse practitioner and over 13 years of nursing experience across various settings. She believes in a holistic approach to care and is passionate about changing the narrative and stigma associated with mental illness. She incorporates evidenced-based and compassionate care in her approach. She specializes in Anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, and sleep disorders. She sees children, teens, and adults.
![Photo of Micaela Strevay, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a634bc00-fa71-4c15-80fa-b5e1c24392d7/1/320x400.png)
Micaela Strevay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85326 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Micaela! I'm a former flight nurse with a proven track record in the hospital and healthcare sector. My strengths lie in Emergency Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, Transport Nursing, Prehospital Care & Transport, and delivering top-notch customer service. My path to becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is rooted in my aspiration to aid individuals in achieving not only physical but also mental well-being. The body's equilibrium depends on harmony between the physical and mental aspects, and I'm here to support your journey to thriving.
Hello, I'm Micaela! I'm a former flight nurse with a proven track record in the hospital and healthcare sector. My strengths lie in Emergency Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, Transport Nursing, Prehospital Care & Transport, and delivering top-notch customer service. My path to becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is rooted in my aspiration to aid individuals in achieving not only physical but also mental well-being. The body's equilibrium depends on harmony between the physical and mental aspects, and I'm here to support your journey to thriving.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b1eff58-58c6-46ce-a402-e2732bb27a1b/2/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Micaela Strevay, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f857be3a-f9e2-49fc-a4a2-5f2a0618de6f/1/320x400.png)
Micaela Strevay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85326 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Micaela! I'm a former flight nurse with a proven track record in the hospital and healthcare sector. My strengths lie in Emergency Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, Transport Nursing, Prehospital Care & Transport, and delivering top-notch customer service. My path to becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is rooted in my aspiration to aid individuals in achieving not only physical but also mental well-being. The body's equilibrium depends on harmony between the physical and mental aspects, and I'm here to support your journey to thriving.
Hello, I'm Micaela! I'm a former flight nurse with a proven track record in the hospital and healthcare sector. My strengths lie in Emergency Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, Transport Nursing, Prehospital Care & Transport, and delivering top-notch customer service. My path to becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is rooted in my aspiration to aid individuals in achieving not only physical but also mental well-being. The body's equilibrium depends on harmony between the physical and mental aspects, and I'm here to support your journey to thriving.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e1c9b77-2e91-4fb6-b331-6e5853d91e07/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85326
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e9128d-3eda-4a6a-a5d4-4935b200c2ea/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85326
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
15 Second Videos
Andrea Papa-Molter
Edena Walden
Michelle McCarthy
Shannon Bucciarelli
Allen Masry
Jade Goodloe
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Morgan Alexander
Charlotte Toms
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3ba3802-435f-41ea-ba1e-03191c105fa4/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adf79b70-189d-4b6f-bef8-3cb1ef34bc6a/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8abd7b81-6a99-4d0d-ba7d-1305053db863/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Jade Goodloe, DNP, APRN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a865033e-9369-4d21-913e-7a4ab41a9be2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85326 (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
![Photo of Dr. Barbara Baumgardner, PhD, PMHNP, IBCLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f20df184-b393-453d-bfe6-dc2dcbcabefa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Barbara Baumgardner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, IBCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85396 (Online Only)
Telehealth appointments are available! As both a Nurse Practitioner and a Psychologist, I bring a relatively rare combination of skills and ways of thinking about problems to the therapy process. I am keenly interested in helping you feel better both emotionally and physically as well as helping you be successful in the relationships that matter most to you. My goal is to provide seamless care so that as your doctor who knows you best, through therapy, I'm also managing the medications that are part of our collaborative treatment plan.
Telehealth appointments are available! As both a Nurse Practitioner and a Psychologist, I bring a relatively rare combination of skills and ways of thinking about problems to the therapy process. I am keenly interested in helping you feel better both emotionally and physically as well as helping you be successful in the relationships that matter most to you. My goal is to provide seamless care so that as your doctor who knows you best, through therapy, I'm also managing the medications that are part of our collaborative treatment plan.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry , DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbce3408-e696-4c6e-9524-2a8bb42b92ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85326
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Carolyne Mburu-Gerena, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72e8e2f6-97cd-4441-ab05-4ad777ddbaf8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyne Mburu-Gerena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85326 (Online Only)
Hello and warm greetings! I am Carolyne Mburu-Gerena, your compassionate ally and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With 23 years of experience in healthcare, I have navigated diverse environments, from the hustle of emergency rooms to the intimacy of home-based care. My mission is simple: to provide heartfelt and thorough mental health support to both young people and adults. Embracing modern healthcare approaches, I offer telepsychiatry services, making it easier for you to receive care for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder from wherever you feel most comfortable.
Hello and warm greetings! I am Carolyne Mburu-Gerena, your compassionate ally and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With 23 years of experience in healthcare, I have navigated diverse environments, from the hustle of emergency rooms to the intimacy of home-based care. My mission is simple: to provide heartfelt and thorough mental health support to both young people and adults. Embracing modern healthcare approaches, I offer telepsychiatry services, making it easier for you to receive care for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder from wherever you feel most comfortable.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f4105cc-a2ad-4f0e-b207-d10e46ce1202/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Rosa Norris - Generational Wellness, PLLC, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c986a41e-5cd3-4be8-ad16-df6a4dc3ac7d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Generational Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85396
We are faced with uncertain times today, and these times can be especially hard if you are already navigating life. Let us partner together to get you back to enjoying life. Together we can help you sharpen your skills by adding a compassionate and focused plan based on your needs and wellness desires.
We are faced with uncertain times today, and these times can be especially hard if you are already navigating life. Let us partner together to get you back to enjoying life. Together we can help you sharpen your skills by adding a compassionate and focused plan based on your needs and wellness desires.
See more therapy options for Buckeye
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Buckeye, AZ
30+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Buckeye, AZ who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
90% | Trauma and PTSD |
84% | ADHD |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Sleep or Insomnia |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Buckeye, AZ see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Buckeye?
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.