Psychiatrists in Orem, UT
![Photo of David L Paulson - Alliance Behavioral Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db9d2f29-35aa-40da-a286-1ec0615366bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Alliance Behavioral Psychiatry! We have offices in Orem (near the University Mall) and Lehi (off of Main Street, close to Saratoga Springs). We offer medication management and psychotherapy as well as pharmacogenetic testing, where appropriate. Our providers are: David Paulson, MD, Traci Naylor, APRN, PMHNP; Mekenzie Cooper, APRN, PMHNP; Rebecca Harvey, APRN, DNP; Joel Covington, APRN, DNP; Dan Muster, APRN, DNP; Corrine Freeman, APRN, DNP; Brooke Merrill, APRN, PMHNP; and Karina McDonald APRN, PMHNP. We believe patients receive the best care when they have strong alliance with their providers.
Welcome to Alliance Behavioral Psychiatry! We have offices in Orem (near the University Mall) and Lehi (off of Main Street, close to Saratoga Springs). We offer medication management and psychotherapy as well as pharmacogenetic testing, where appropriate. Our providers are: David Paulson, MD, Traci Naylor, APRN, PMHNP; Mekenzie Cooper, APRN, PMHNP; Rebecca Harvey, APRN, DNP; Joel Covington, APRN, DNP; Dan Muster, APRN, DNP; Corrine Freeman, APRN, DNP; Brooke Merrill, APRN, PMHNP; and Karina McDonald APRN, PMHNP. We believe patients receive the best care when they have strong alliance with their providers.
![Photo of Brian C Nyberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e03d60f-f1de-4d5c-a508-469ea07fdee2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Virtual Consultation. I am committed to providing you with the highest quality of care. Platform: We will be conducting the appointment via Google Meet. You'll need a stable internet connection and access to a computer or mobile device with a webcam and microphone. If you haven't used Google Meet before, please try it out in advance. If you encounter any technical difficulties, please reach out to me for assistance. Privacy and Confidentiality: Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance. The confidentiality of our session depends on the the security of your internet connection and the privacy of your surroundings.
Virtual Consultation. I am committed to providing you with the highest quality of care. Platform: We will be conducting the appointment via Google Meet. You'll need a stable internet connection and access to a computer or mobile device with a webcam and microphone. If you haven't used Google Meet before, please try it out in advance. If you encounter any technical difficulties, please reach out to me for assistance. Privacy and Confidentiality: Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance. The confidentiality of our session depends on the the security of your internet connection and the privacy of your surroundings.
![Photo of Regan Haight, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/124ab0b8-4c8a-4bd5-9487-3b24541dca10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Regan Haight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
Accepting New Clients! I bring a deep understanding of the gut-brain connection, genetics, diet, nutrition, stress, trauma, and various lifestyle and environmental factors that impact mental health. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to help you achieve lasting healing by addressing the root causes of mental illness and improving your quality of life. With 13 years of experience in medication management, I am well-versed in prescribing medications when necessary. However, I believe in a comprehensive approach that goes beyond conventional treatments.
Accepting New Clients! I bring a deep understanding of the gut-brain connection, genetics, diet, nutrition, stress, trauma, and various lifestyle and environmental factors that impact mental health. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to help you achieve lasting healing by addressing the root causes of mental illness and improving your quality of life. With 13 years of experience in medication management, I am well-versed in prescribing medications when necessary. However, I believe in a comprehensive approach that goes beyond conventional treatments.
![Photo of Dr. Jason L Andersen - Mind Body Ketamine, (ABPN), (ABAM), (ABPM), Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b5a1861-e5f3-4396-8498-e9b7842a4b01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jason Andersen primarily treats patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, addiction, and pain. In recent years he has found ketamine to be extremely proactive in patients with these conditions. Ketamine has been a ground shaking treatment in the mental health world for many people, as we have seen in our practice help patients with major depressive disorder, PTSD and severe anxiety live a better life by providing relief from their symptoms. Patients frequently report instant relief from anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and even pain from subanesthetic doses of Ketamine.
Dr. Jason Andersen primarily treats patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, addiction, and pain. In recent years he has found ketamine to be extremely proactive in patients with these conditions. Ketamine has been a ground shaking treatment in the mental health world for many people, as we have seen in our practice help patients with major depressive disorder, PTSD and severe anxiety live a better life by providing relief from their symptoms. Patients frequently report instant relief from anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and even pain from subanesthetic doses of Ketamine.
![Photo of Dr. Britney Palombo, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7b070d5-1b89-422f-a00c-24dfd69ed6b4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Britney Palombo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
Dr. Palombo is skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, as well as individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She uses a collaborative approach to treatment, exploring the psychological, biological, behavioral, and social factors contributing to each individuals circumstance. She specializes in children and adolescents but has been managing outpatient psychiatric care for all ages as well as providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation since 2017. She has had extensive training in TMS and utilizes cutting edge evidence-based research to provide not only effective but personalized treatment options.
Dr. Palombo is skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, as well as individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She uses a collaborative approach to treatment, exploring the psychological, biological, behavioral, and social factors contributing to each individuals circumstance. She specializes in children and adolescents but has been managing outpatient psychiatric care for all ages as well as providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation since 2017. She has had extensive training in TMS and utilizes cutting edge evidence-based research to provide not only effective but personalized treatment options.
![Photo of Melissa Hoyt, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d99b40ff-359d-441c-a43a-c0240f83f45e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I was born and raised in Utah. Before becoming a Physician Associate (PA), I was a medical assistant for over 10 years in various settings. During this time, I found mental health integral in every type of practice and desired to provide this care to everyone seeking it. I then went on to obtain my Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) in Provo and am currently working towards my Doctorate of Medical Sciences (DMSc) at RMUoHP where I am increasing my skills in Mental Health diagnosis and management as well as various therapeutic skills.
I was born and raised in Utah. Before becoming a Physician Associate (PA), I was a medical assistant for over 10 years in various settings. During this time, I found mental health integral in every type of practice and desired to provide this care to everyone seeking it. I then went on to obtain my Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) in Provo and am currently working towards my Doctorate of Medical Sciences (DMSc) at RMUoHP where I am increasing my skills in Mental Health diagnosis and management as well as various therapeutic skills.
![Photo of Bruno Silva - Healing Ketamine, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65926da9-d029-4a35-aa65-cf9b018d569a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! We're glad you're exploring ketamine infusions, a cutting-edge option in the realm of mental health treatments. This therapy has shown promise in providing relief for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, offering hope and healing. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your comfort and safety. We're committed to personalized care, tailoring each treatment to the individual's unique needs and health goals. Together, we'll work towards a brighter, healthier future for you.
Welcome! We're glad you're exploring ketamine infusions, a cutting-edge option in the realm of mental health treatments. This therapy has shown promise in providing relief for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, offering hope and healing. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your comfort and safety. We're committed to personalized care, tailoring each treatment to the individual's unique needs and health goals. Together, we'll work towards a brighter, healthier future for you.
![Photo of Dave Lindsay, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5319b659-9304-4240-bb8b-5d76a89c41d4/3/320x400.jpeg)
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that may include ketamine treatments, medication management and therapy. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat a number of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that may include ketamine treatments, medication management and therapy. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat a number of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders.
![Photo of William Bunn - Intercare Consulting: Psych medication treatment, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49f30136-5ec7-417b-9abb-033a286a5471/2/320x400.jpeg)
Book an appointment today at Intercareconsulting.com Welcome to Intercare Consulting with Board-certified mental health professionals now available for in-office visits or telemedicine through your mobile device. Diagnosis and medication management for: Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, Panic Disorders, Postpartum Depression, Trauma & PTSD, ADHD treatment. Pharmacogenomic Testing available. Accepting new patients age 6 and up. We do not do disability claims or verification unless you are a current patient.
Book an appointment today at Intercareconsulting.com Welcome to Intercare Consulting with Board-certified mental health professionals now available for in-office visits or telemedicine through your mobile device. Diagnosis and medication management for: Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, Panic Disorders, Postpartum Depression, Trauma & PTSD, ADHD treatment. Pharmacogenomic Testing available. Accepting new patients age 6 and up. We do not do disability claims or verification unless you are a current patient.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/239751d3-9039-4c86-b2df-3a2d243ad423/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94417e48-dfdf-4e3c-be50-816a1bb3738e/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.
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Regan Haight
Ronil Shah
Morgan Alexander
Karl Tucker
![Photo of Karl Tucker, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbc797e0-8ee6-4896-bf1b-d519d95ae92f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Open and seeing patients. No Wait! We take most commercial insurances. Karl Tucker believes that good mental health requires a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of life, including exercise programs, mindfulness and meditation, social relationship improvement, nutrition, and sleep regimes.
Open and seeing patients. No Wait! We take most commercial insurances. Karl Tucker believes that good mental health requires a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of life, including exercise programs, mindfulness and meditation, social relationship improvement, nutrition, and sleep regimes.
![Photo of Angeleah Roberts, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3d9ca68-e9ea-4169-b1ad-d011377d3ace/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking more of a holistic approach and incorporating mind, body, and spirit during the healing process. I treat many different conditions with the end goal of helping those who are struggling in life. I have found ketamine, especially when combined with therapy to be an amazing tool in helping those find the relief they deserve.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking more of a holistic approach and incorporating mind, body, and spirit during the healing process. I treat many different conditions with the end goal of helping those who are struggling in life. I have found ketamine, especially when combined with therapy to be an amazing tool in helping those find the relief they deserve.
![Photo of Jean Stanford, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddbdd133-360a-4e3e-9ba6-1cea65f532a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jean is a board-certified physician assistant and has broad experience in healthcare, but has specialized in mental health treatment for the last 8 years. Before focusing in on mental health, she worked in pain management, endocrinology, nephrology, and family medicine. Prior to being a Physician Assistant, she graduated from WSU and worked as a Registered Respiratory Therapist in Adult and Neonatal Intensive Care Units with IHC for 18 years. This expanse of knowledge and experience guides Jean's balanced and well-rounded approach to mental health care.
Jean is a board-certified physician assistant and has broad experience in healthcare, but has specialized in mental health treatment for the last 8 years. Before focusing in on mental health, she worked in pain management, endocrinology, nephrology, and family medicine. Prior to being a Physician Assistant, she graduated from WSU and worked as a Registered Respiratory Therapist in Adult and Neonatal Intensive Care Units with IHC for 18 years. This expanse of knowledge and experience guides Jean's balanced and well-rounded approach to mental health care.
![Photo of Todd Allen, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6227322-1787-4f8b-965a-cd97e8917cfa/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Todd is a dedicated and empathetic mental health specialist with a passion for helping individuals find balance, recovery, and happiness in their lives. He has extensive experience in the field, having started his career as a psychiatric nurse and later serving as manager of Utah Valley Hospital's inpatient psychiatry department. He received a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Utah and post-graduate certification in Psychiatric-Mental Health from the University of South Alabama. He is also an assistant professor at Roseman University of Health Sciences.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Todd is a dedicated and empathetic mental health specialist with a passion for helping individuals find balance, recovery, and happiness in their lives. He has extensive experience in the field, having started his career as a psychiatric nurse and later serving as manager of Utah Valley Hospital's inpatient psychiatry department. He received a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Utah and post-graduate certification in Psychiatric-Mental Health from the University of South Alabama. He is also an assistant professor at Roseman University of Health Sciences.
![Photo of Reid Robison, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af969311-8c98-404d-9db0-c67de19c3485/1/320x400.png)
I work with individuals & families of all ages, across all mental health conditions. Here are a few of the services I offer: Ketamine therapy & Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression & OCD, ADHD testing, Autism evals, Pharmacogenetics, and Clinical Trials (MDD, BPD, PTSD).
I work with individuals & families of all ages, across all mental health conditions. Here are a few of the services I offer: Ketamine therapy & Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression & OCD, ADHD testing, Autism evals, Pharmacogenetics, and Clinical Trials (MDD, BPD, PTSD).
![Photo of Carian McLean, MSN, APRN, CNM, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e82c5db9-b6b7-4fa3-af1b-75fa674734a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carian McLean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNM, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84058
Centering Psychiatry is accepting new clients - a consultation phone call or initial visit can be scheduled on our website. The practice provides thoughtful and individualized mental healthcare including evaluation and assessment and medication management with the goal to improve daily emotional wellbeing for each client. Utilizing a holistic approach, we consider the impact of stress, sleep structure, nutrition, relationship dynamics, and thinking patterns on emotional health, coupled with thoughtful medication therapy. Centering Psychiatry approaches every client with trauma informed and LGBTQ+ affirming care.
Centering Psychiatry is accepting new clients - a consultation phone call or initial visit can be scheduled on our website. The practice provides thoughtful and individualized mental healthcare including evaluation and assessment and medication management with the goal to improve daily emotional wellbeing for each client. Utilizing a holistic approach, we consider the impact of stress, sleep structure, nutrition, relationship dynamics, and thinking patterns on emotional health, coupled with thoughtful medication therapy. Centering Psychiatry approaches every client with trauma informed and LGBTQ+ affirming care.
![Photo of Douglas Grover, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd9a7924-b964-45d1-8326-8efbdf361d83/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Grover, MD is a board certified psychiatrist with particular interests in treating depressive, anxiety, bipolar, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Grover received his medical degree from the University of California Riverside, where he also completed his general adult psychiatry residency training.
Dr. Grover, MD is a board certified psychiatrist with particular interests in treating depressive, anxiety, bipolar, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Grover received his medical degree from the University of California Riverside, where he also completed his general adult psychiatry residency training.
![Photo of Dr. Dallas Bowles, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc681723-77ca-4fbb-a5c9-a57048c21e61/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dallas Bowles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84097
Accepting new patients with HMHI-BHN, Aetna, BlueCross/ BlueShield, or self-pay! I specialize in treating adults, and offer a range of mental health services, including diagnostic evaluation, psychotherapy, and medication prescription. I believe in holistic treatment for mental health issues and use the bio-psycho-social model. I want to help you progress on your path to supporting your well-being. I focus on depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD.
Accepting new patients with HMHI-BHN, Aetna, BlueCross/ BlueShield, or self-pay! I specialize in treating adults, and offer a range of mental health services, including diagnostic evaluation, psychotherapy, and medication prescription. I believe in holistic treatment for mental health issues and use the bio-psycho-social model. I want to help you progress on your path to supporting your well-being. I focus on depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD.
![Photo of Catherine Collins - White Sage Wellness, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc3704fc-2be5-4704-97ea-a956ca466e92/2/320x400.jpeg)
White Sage Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
Not accepting new clients
My name is Catherine Collins. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a broad range of training and experience. I have treated adolescent and adult patients in multiple practice settings including hospitals, inpatient medical detox and outpatient medication management. Acknowledging the strong connection between mind, body and spirit, I focus on providing evidence-based care that nurtures wholeness and healing.
My name is Catherine Collins. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a broad range of training and experience. I have treated adolescent and adult patients in multiple practice settings including hospitals, inpatient medical detox and outpatient medication management. Acknowledging the strong connection between mind, body and spirit, I focus on providing evidence-based care that nurtures wholeness and healing.
See more therapy options for Orem
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Orem, UT
20+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Orem, UT who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
87% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Medication Management |
74% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | SelectHealth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Orem, UT see their clients
83% | In Person and Online | |
17% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
52% | Male | |
48% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Orem?
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.