Psychiatrists in Sedona, AZ
![Photo of Mary Watson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/509fffc6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Watson is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management. She also utilizes ketamine as a tool to accelerate growth and healing and works cooperatively with providers of other disciplines to help you where you need it most.
Dr. Watson is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management. She also utilizes ketamine as a tool to accelerate growth and healing and works cooperatively with providers of other disciplines to help you where you need it most.
![Photo of Robert Inzunza, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c120a94a-3b73-4828-98b6-2cd9f15b4072/1/320x400.png)
I am a licensed Physician Assistant and 12 years of diverse experience across Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care, Occupational Medicine, Primary Care, Nephrology, Cardiology, and Internal Medicine. Fluent in Spanish, I have successfully worked with a broad range of patients. With a comprehensive background spanning 30 years as an EMT, Phlebotomist, RN, and PA-C, I have honed my skills, building confidence and autonomy. Proficient in various Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), I have contributed to enhancing HEDIS Quality Core Measures, ensuring patient satisfaction, reducing complaints, and minimizing hospital admissions.
I am a licensed Physician Assistant and 12 years of diverse experience across Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care, Occupational Medicine, Primary Care, Nephrology, Cardiology, and Internal Medicine. Fluent in Spanish, I have successfully worked with a broad range of patients. With a comprehensive background spanning 30 years as an EMT, Phlebotomist, RN, and PA-C, I have honed my skills, building confidence and autonomy. Proficient in various Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), I have contributed to enhancing HEDIS Quality Core Measures, ensuring patient satisfaction, reducing complaints, and minimizing hospital admissions.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d17963a-6726-4031-8bab-1f29d345de83/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bb3e6cb-d621-4f39-8c7d-18bb15735824/2/320x400.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 Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cc04ace-2a3d-4083-93c9-5a93ea43eb92/1/320x400.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. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d1216fb-f205-42f1-b2c5-0b1e0c967f4d/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. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy , DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f94545a-bfc8-4f7d-a2b1-4b91eb68ef28/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/162c2c9c-824b-4b04-b4d4-e1585e2d784b/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 Francisca Onyemize, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a947c5d-3dd5-4041-8a67-85117ec073eb/2/320x400.png)
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86336
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. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e484a74-26b7-439d-ad72-89f5a223ff63/2/320x400.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 Susan E Bigley - Sedona Psychiatry, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10bbb004-cf3a-4d18-8708-fb80bc73432d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sedona Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sedona, AZ 86336
Welcome to Sedona Psychiatry. I am glad you are viewing my profile. It would be a great honor to assist you. I am a dedicated Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Flagstaff, AZ, serving Northern Arizona. I offer both in-person and telehealth options, providing compassionate, individualized care tailored to each person's unique needs. My approach goes beyond merely prescribing medication; I focus on holistic, patient-centered interventions that address various aspects of a person’s life, including lifestyle habits, personal goals, and behavioral and cognitive patterns.
Welcome to Sedona Psychiatry. I am glad you are viewing my profile. It would be a great honor to assist you. I am a dedicated Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Flagstaff, AZ, serving Northern Arizona. I offer both in-person and telehealth options, providing compassionate, individualized care tailored to each person's unique needs. My approach goes beyond merely prescribing medication; I focus on holistic, patient-centered interventions that address various aspects of a person’s life, including lifestyle habits, personal goals, and behavioral and cognitive patterns.
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Lindsay Hill
![Photo of Laura Ross, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b4c805c-7e80-409e-81c7-e33a9c80bf8e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, adult and geriatric. I have worked closely with college students to help them reach their academic goals. My treatment approach is evidence based and collaborative. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from. I am here to help guide you back to “the real you”.
I am a board-certified Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, adult and geriatric. I have worked closely with college students to help them reach their academic goals. My treatment approach is evidence based and collaborative. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from. I am here to help guide you back to “the real you”.
![Photo of Christiana L Bille - MEC Integrated Psychiatry, LLC, BSN, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65cd0f94-08e5-4fa9-9f67-680a424debc6/2/320x400.jpeg)
MEC Integrated Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Sedona, AZ 86336
Christiana Bille, DNP- PMHNP-BC Board-Certified PMHNP. I’m Christiana Bille, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 18+ years of diverse experience in healthcare. My private practice in Tucson, Arizona, offers a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health, combining both medication management and talk therapy to support your mental health. Throughout my career, I have worked across a range of settings, gaining a wealth of experience that I now bring into my practice. My goal is to provide personalized, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
Christiana Bille, DNP- PMHNP-BC Board-Certified PMHNP. I’m Christiana Bille, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 18+ years of diverse experience in healthcare. My private practice in Tucson, Arizona, offers a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health, combining both medication management and talk therapy to support your mental health. Throughout my career, I have worked across a range of settings, gaining a wealth of experience that I now bring into my practice. My goal is to provide personalized, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
![Photo of Cristal Sampson - Spirit Clinic, RN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5479ce59-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Spirit Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sedona, AZ 86336 (Online Only)
My name is Cristal and I work as a Yale-trained Psychiatric-Mental Health nurse practitioner. In my treatment approach, we will consider your physiology, personal and family history, health status, your behavioral drivers, the socio-cultural context in which you live, and the parts of your story most relevant to you to meet *your* desired outcome. I will ensure we work collaboratively to discover your path to mental wellness. ***Please note all appointments are virtual.***
My name is Cristal and I work as a Yale-trained Psychiatric-Mental Health nurse practitioner. In my treatment approach, we will consider your physiology, personal and family history, health status, your behavioral drivers, the socio-cultural context in which you live, and the parts of your story most relevant to you to meet *your* desired outcome. I will ensure we work collaboratively to discover your path to mental wellness. ***Please note all appointments are virtual.***
![Photo of Dr. Lindsay Hill, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b246559-aeca-4a46-9ed8-c06b6701261b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lindsay Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sedona, AZ 86336 (Online Only)
Speaking from personal and professional experience, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who intimately understands the complexities of navigating life with ADHD and anxiety. In addition to my professional training, my personal journey with these conditions has provided me with an invaluable perspective. This insight has played a critical role in my practice, offering me a first-hand understanding of my patients' struggles and empowering me to develop more empathetic and effective treatment strategies.
Speaking from personal and professional experience, I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who intimately understands the complexities of navigating life with ADHD and anxiety. In addition to my professional training, my personal journey with these conditions has provided me with an invaluable perspective. This insight has played a critical role in my practice, offering me a first-hand understanding of my patients' struggles and empowering me to develop more empathetic and effective treatment strategies.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Monica Booth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eb4def8-e982-4fb2-8d77-eb9efba6207d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Booth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308 (Online Only)
I am a licensed and certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background also in primary care. I received my psychiatric and mental health post Master's education from Eastern Kentucky University and Master's degree for family nurse practitioner from the University of Phoenix. I help those struggling with a variety of behavioral health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, eating disorders. inattention, ADHD, Autism and more , across all ages of the lifespan and strive to reduce the social stigma of mental health disorders.
I am a licensed and certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background also in primary care. I received my psychiatric and mental health post Master's education from Eastern Kentucky University and Master's degree for family nurse practitioner from the University of Phoenix. I help those struggling with a variety of behavioral health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, eating disorders. inattention, ADHD, Autism and more , across all ages of the lifespan and strive to reduce the social stigma of mental health disorders.
![Photo of Nicole Dressler, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5ac30a8-0127-45ed-9461-269ca9dda17f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Dressler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020 (Online Only)
Your journey with depression, anxiety, or ADHD is uniquely yours, yet you don't have to navigate it alone. As an adult facing these challenges, you seek more than just symptom relief; you aim for a life where these conditions do not define you. You're looking for compassionate guidance to manage these conditions effectively, to set meaningful goals, and to unlock the full potential of your personal and professional life.
Your journey with depression, anxiety, or ADHD is uniquely yours, yet you don't have to navigate it alone. As an adult facing these challenges, you seek more than just symptom relief; you aim for a life where these conditions do not define you. You're looking for compassionate guidance to manage these conditions effectively, to set meaningful goals, and to unlock the full potential of your personal and professional life.
![Photo of Francisca Onyemize, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498d6735-d7bd-451a-a0d9-b2c89b22b6e4/2/320x400.png)
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85033
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 Nathan Dingeldein - WiseMind Wellness, LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbbba4b5-c1cf-4114-8a8b-4d7ec6bf3840/3/320x400.jpeg)
WiseMind Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012 (Online Only)
I have long believed the human body inherently aspires to heal. Genetics plus factors in or out of our control can lead to bothersome or debilitating symptoms that get in the way of even simple goals. Humans also make unhealthy choices. They probably once served a purpose, but as time passes these habits start to interfere with our goals or values. Any combination of these can overwhelm our coping skills and lead to distress or even crisis.
I have long believed the human body inherently aspires to heal. Genetics plus factors in or out of our control can lead to bothersome or debilitating symptoms that get in the way of even simple goals. Humans also make unhealthy choices. They probably once served a purpose, but as time passes these habits start to interfere with our goals or values. Any combination of these can overwhelm our coping skills and lead to distress or even crisis.
See more therapy options for Sedona
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sedona, AZ
10+
Average cost per session
$170
Psychiatrists in Sedona, AZ who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
87% | ADHD |
87% | Medication Management |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Sedona, AZ see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sedona?
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.