Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/AZ
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Allysen Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Hi there! I am accepting new clients from anywhere in Arizona. I started Her Season Behavioral Wellness and Psychiatry as a women-focused approach to mental health. I help women navigate each season of life with confidence and resilience. From the excitement and challenges of that young adults face, to the joys and complexities of motherhood, and on to the wisdom and perspective of womanhood, I am committed to helping you achieve optimal wellbeing. Women face unique challenges throughout their lives, which is why I offer personalized mental health and a wide range of services tailored to your specific needs.
Hi there! I am accepting new clients from anywhere in Arizona. I started Her Season Behavioral Wellness and Psychiatry as a women-focused approach to mental health. I help women navigate each season of life with confidence and resilience. From the excitement and challenges of that young adults face, to the joys and complexities of motherhood, and on to the wisdom and perspective of womanhood, I am committed to helping you achieve optimal wellbeing. Women face unique challenges throughout their lives, which is why I offer personalized mental health and a wide range of services tailored to your specific needs.
Makenna Francis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85288
I see individuals starting at age 0-65 years old (babies, young children, adolescents, and adults). Although I do not prescribe medication for children under the age of 7, I do perform psychiatric evaluations, provide environmental and behavioral modification treatment plans, and provide parents with tools for young children with complexities. I incorporate family dynamics into my planning. I am a proponent of early intervention for concerns of adaptability. I also prioritize long-term cognitive and memory health and enjoy working with older adults as well.
I see individuals starting at age 0-65 years old (babies, young children, adolescents, and adults). Although I do not prescribe medication for children under the age of 7, I do perform psychiatric evaluations, provide environmental and behavioral modification treatment plans, and provide parents with tools for young children with complexities. I incorporate family dynamics into my planning. I am a proponent of early intervention for concerns of adaptability. I also prioritize long-term cognitive and memory health and enjoy working with older adults as well.
Feeling like you're under a constant cloud, struggling to find a bit of sunshine? You're not alone. Many of us move through life carrying a weight only we can see, silently questioning if anyone else could truly understand. Recognizing and seeking help for these feelings is a brave step. Imagine for a moment the possibility of lightening this load, allowing your true self to shine through once again. My practice is built on a foundation of compassion using a client-centered approach. We focus on creating a partnership where you feel seen and understood.
Feeling like you're under a constant cloud, struggling to find a bit of sunshine? You're not alone. Many of us move through life carrying a weight only we can see, silently questioning if anyone else could truly understand. Recognizing and seeking help for these feelings is a brave step. Imagine for a moment the possibility of lightening this load, allowing your true self to shine through once again. My practice is built on a foundation of compassion using a client-centered approach. We focus on creating a partnership where you feel seen and understood.
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.
If you are looking for an experienced prescriber who doesn't throw a bunch of meds at you, that's me. I have decades of experience in child/ adolescent/ young adult psychiatry- performing psychiatric evaluations (which is the first appointment, when we chat about you and what's concerning you), making diagnoses, and discussing meds. My ultimate goal is that you feel comfortable. We will talk about you / your child as a whole person. I schedule lots of time in our early appointments to make sure your questions get answered. I have a dedicated receptionist and respond promptly to portal messages when concerns pop up.
If you are looking for an experienced prescriber who doesn't throw a bunch of meds at you, that's me. I have decades of experience in child/ adolescent/ young adult psychiatry- performing psychiatric evaluations (which is the first appointment, when we chat about you and what's concerning you), making diagnoses, and discussing meds. My ultimate goal is that you feel comfortable. We will talk about you / your child as a whole person. I schedule lots of time in our early appointments to make sure your questions get answered. I have a dedicated receptionist and respond promptly to portal messages when concerns pop up.
Nikkita Dinnella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
I aim to serve anyone grappling with the challenges of mental health issues or addiction. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based care. If you are seeking someone who can collaborate with you and personalize your treatment to your unique needs, please consider a new patient consultation. Together, we can navigate the challenges that have been affecting your life and work towards a brighter future.
I aim to serve anyone grappling with the challenges of mental health issues or addiction. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based care. If you are seeking someone who can collaborate with you and personalize your treatment to your unique needs, please consider a new patient consultation. Together, we can navigate the challenges that have been affecting your life and work towards a brighter future.
Sound Mynd, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. I also offer psychiatric care for oncology patients and psychological evaluation for surgeries. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. I also offer psychiatric care for oncology patients and psychological evaluation for surgeries. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Tabitha Arey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, RN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I can help you decide if psychiatric medications and/or non-medication treatment options may be a good fit for your current situation. My approach is inclusive, nonjudgmental, and centers around you and your needs. The shame and stigma surrounding mental health and psychiatric medications is outdated and it is my goal to make sure you feel safe, supported, and comfortable to be exactly who you are in my office. Whether you decide psychiatric medications are right for you or not - I’m here to cheer you on in finding a solution that works for you.
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I can help you decide if psychiatric medications and/or non-medication treatment options may be a good fit for your current situation. My approach is inclusive, nonjudgmental, and centers around you and your needs. The shame and stigma surrounding mental health and psychiatric medications is outdated and it is my goal to make sure you feel safe, supported, and comfortable to be exactly who you are in my office. Whether you decide psychiatric medications are right for you or not - I’m here to cheer you on in finding a solution that works for you.
***IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY*** Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. We would love to help you understand how to address your concerns. We provide a safe environment that allows you to discuss your problems without feeling shame or judgement. Your help is just an email or phone call away!
***IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY*** Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. We would love to help you understand how to address your concerns. We provide a safe environment that allows you to discuss your problems without feeling shame or judgement. Your help is just an email or phone call away!
15 Second Videos
Leah Haddad
Andrea Stults
Jade Goodloe
Alevea Mental Health
Jennifer Muhammad
Elevate Mental Health and Wellness PLLC
Jack Mkroyan
Warren Kane
Allen Masry
Edena Walden
Andrea Papa-Molter
Shannon Bucciarelli
Michelle McCarthy
Jamie Gustafson; AZ Holistic Anxiety Treatment
Dr. DePalma Psychiatrist
Olivier Djoumessi
Princess Darko-Amoako
Anthony Vincent Olorunsola
Sonya Riske - Desert Foothills Mental Health
Leah Haddad
Daniel Chandler
Olivier Djoumessi
Jamie Miskell
Genesis of Peace Integrated Health LLC
Dominique Sanders
Molly Jubeck
Elizabeth Elliott
Az del Pino
Brianne Terrell- Psychiatric Medication Management
Sunitha has worked with outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals with mental health disorders including serious mental illness (SMI) and the correctional health population. Most of Sunitha’s clients are adults, but she has had clients from ages 6 and up. Her PMHNP license covers the population across the lifespan.
Sunitha has worked with outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals with mental health disorders including serious mental illness (SMI) and the correctional health population. Most of Sunitha’s clients are adults, but she has had clients from ages 6 and up. Her PMHNP license covers the population across the lifespan.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
I'm Vicki McLeod, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of experience in mental health care. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anger issues, behavioral complaints, or specific women's issues, I'm here to offer comprehensive and compassionate support. If you're struggling with the complexities of mental health issues or the challenges brought about by life changes, know that you're not alone. Choosing me as your mental health partner means entrusting your journey to someone who is not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to your well-being.
I'm Vicki McLeod, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of experience in mental health care. Whether you're facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anger issues, behavioral complaints, or specific women's issues, I'm here to offer comprehensive and compassionate support. If you're struggling with the complexities of mental health issues or the challenges brought about by life changes, know that you're not alone. Choosing me as your mental health partner means entrusting your journey to someone who is not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to your well-being.
Saleh Bahati at Amicus Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MPH, CPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
At Amicus we work with you as a team, you know your problem better than anyone else, is it Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, OCD, ADHD, Mood changes, PTSD, Insomnia, etc. We will work together to achieve your goals, improve your symptoms, get your optimal function, enjoy again things in life, feel again, smile, get back to your favorite activities, enjoy family and friends. Find us at our website for booking.
At Amicus we work with you as a team, you know your problem better than anyone else, is it Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, OCD, ADHD, Mood changes, PTSD, Insomnia, etc. We will work together to achieve your goals, improve your symptoms, get your optimal function, enjoy again things in life, feel again, smile, get back to your favorite activities, enjoy family and friends. Find us at our website for booking.
Brian Thomas is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner currently seeing clients at Thriving Mind Solutions located in Tempe, AZ. He has decades of experience working in diverse mental health environments. His commitment is evident through his dedicated efforts to foster collaborative relationships with clients. Brian specializes in creating personalized treatment plans to enhance mental health and overall well-being, catering specifically to individuals dealing with Depression, Anxiety and ADHD. Additionally, he works with individuals struggling with OCD, trauma, and more.
Brian Thomas is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner currently seeing clients at Thriving Mind Solutions located in Tempe, AZ. He has decades of experience working in diverse mental health environments. His commitment is evident through his dedicated efforts to foster collaborative relationships with clients. Brian specializes in creating personalized treatment plans to enhance mental health and overall well-being, catering specifically to individuals dealing with Depression, Anxiety and ADHD. Additionally, he works with individuals struggling with OCD, trauma, and more.
Our patients come from all walks of life with varied backgrounds. If you have ever left a provider feeling like you haven’t been heard, you will experience a completely different level of care with Tyler. Taking the time to listen, giving you all the options available from medication to alternative interventions, are her specialties. If you have difficulty with focus, concentration, procrastination, anxiety, depression, or just need a medication evaluation, Tyler and Thriving Mind Solutions are here to help.
Our patients come from all walks of life with varied backgrounds. If you have ever left a provider feeling like you haven’t been heard, you will experience a completely different level of care with Tyler. Taking the time to listen, giving you all the options available from medication to alternative interventions, are her specialties. If you have difficulty with focus, concentration, procrastination, anxiety, depression, or just need a medication evaluation, Tyler and Thriving Mind Solutions are here to help.
Integrative Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNPC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282 (Online Only)
Clients who choose to work with me are motivated to make a change in their lives. The work we do together will help you to better know yourself and design a treatment plan together through, diet, nutrition, counseling and medication when needed to assist you to remember and restore your unique wholeness. We have all been blessed in this life with many gifts and challenges. It is by walking through life challenges how we often discover ourselves, and our greatest strengths.
Clients who choose to work with me are motivated to make a change in their lives. The work we do together will help you to better know yourself and design a treatment plan together through, diet, nutrition, counseling and medication when needed to assist you to remember and restore your unique wholeness. We have all been blessed in this life with many gifts and challenges. It is by walking through life challenges how we often discover ourselves, and our greatest strengths.
I work with a range of patients with emotional, functional and substance use issues as long as the person is invested in finding a collaborative pathway to help.
I work with a range of patients with emotional, functional and substance use issues as long as the person is invested in finding a collaborative pathway to help.
At Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry we offer care for a variety of mental health conditions and lifestyle challenges. We work to empower you in your mental health journey by equipping you with resources and knowledge to overcome obstacles. Why Phoenix Pointe? We approach psychiatric care with a patient-centered commitment. We are passionate about understanding YOU, not just your condition.
At Phoenix Pointe Psychiatry we offer care for a variety of mental health conditions and lifestyle challenges. We work to empower you in your mental health journey by equipping you with resources and knowledge to overcome obstacles. Why Phoenix Pointe? We approach psychiatric care with a patient-centered commitment. We are passionate about understanding YOU, not just your condition.
See more therapy options for Tempe
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ
100+
Average cost per session
$199
Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
84% | ADHD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
98% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Tempe?
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.