Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ
![Photo of Emmeline Reyes, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34b5b8e1-8610-4488-b772-3c0ad8d19c20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emmeline Reyes is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 2023. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University, focus on Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Filipino-American immigrant, Emmeline was raised in an environment where mental health is stigmatized. Bringing attention to cultural differences through individualized care will help bring awareness of the variety of treatments made available to everyone from different walks of life.
Emmeline Reyes is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 2023. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University, focus on Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Filipino-American immigrant, Emmeline was raised in an environment where mental health is stigmatized. Bringing attention to cultural differences through individualized care will help bring awareness of the variety of treatments made available to everyone from different walks of life.
![Photo of Francisca Onyemize, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/374de409-72ec-49cd-928e-588574c92419/2/320x400.png)
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224
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. Georgette Quie, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b1a0432-4811-40bb-bd98-c5b652aeb151/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Georgette Quie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
Hello, and thank you for visiting! My name is Georgette Quie, and I am a compassionate and dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Arizona State University, I bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to guide you on your journey toward emotional well-being and mental health. By integrating evidence-based practices with compassion and empathy, I strive to create a safe and nurturing space for you to explore and navigate your mental health journey. I am here to offer a non-judgmental and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions.
Hello, and thank you for visiting! My name is Georgette Quie, and I am a compassionate and dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Arizona State University, I bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to guide you on your journey toward emotional well-being and mental health. By integrating evidence-based practices with compassion and empathy, I strive to create a safe and nurturing space for you to explore and navigate your mental health journey. I am here to offer a non-judgmental and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e00d8649-0252-4445-baa2-1af27b4a2787/2/320x400.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 Ruth Flucker, MS, RN, RNMH, PMHNP, CNE, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95251ee2-d2aa-4e37-9c46-fb8ed7c35912/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Flucker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, RNMH, PMHNP, CNE
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85226
Ruth has been a nurse for more than 40 years. She has 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner in family psychiatry. Ruth has experience working with adults and college-aged students. She helps with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and mood disorders and provides gender-affirming mental health care to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Ruth has been a nurse for more than 40 years. She has 10 years of experience as a nurse practitioner in family psychiatry. Ruth has experience working with adults and college-aged students. She helps with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and mood disorders and provides gender-affirming mental health care to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d71a8dba-560b-4b58-84a1-8b1a7b930290/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224 (Online Only)
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 Alex Wamble, PAC, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04c86c1c-bdf5-4d31-b385-43e3a9518087/1/320x400.png)
Alex is a board-certified physician assistant who focuses on psychiatry. She helps with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Alex is a board-certified physician assistant who focuses on psychiatry. She helps with anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
![Photo of Dr. Emerson Bueno, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abfdd10a-9557-4556-a19b-c3dbcfb6179c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Emerson Bueno is a board-certified psychiatrist who evaluates, diagnoses, and treats using psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to help increase their overall well-being.
Dr. Emerson Bueno is a board-certified psychiatrist who evaluates, diagnoses, and treats using psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to help increase their overall well-being.
![Photo of Kelly Huffaker, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdbc9056-fffc-4703-8059-8de8c4970f21/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly is a board-certified Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who takes a holistic approach for each individual and customizes a treatment plan that is unique to your needs. Along with medication and supplement options, she focuses on creating a safe space for her clients to voice concerns and improve self-healing and self-value.
Kelly is a board-certified Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who takes a holistic approach for each individual and customizes a treatment plan that is unique to your needs. Along with medication and supplement options, she focuses on creating a safe space for her clients to voice concerns and improve self-healing and self-value.
![Photo of Hannah Parrish, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa05bbaf-8c02-4703-8867-873ac383a22c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Parrish is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since January 2023. Hannah's passion to become a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner began at an early age after losing a friend to suicide. A wonderful organization was developed by the parents of Hannah's friend to help raise awareness for mental health and the stigma associated with it. Being able to openly talk about depression and suicide at such a young age enlightened Hannah about the invisible struggles that people experience. This experience gave Hannah the desire to pursue a career in the field of mental health.
Hannah Parrish is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since January 2023. Hannah's passion to become a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner began at an early age after losing a friend to suicide. A wonderful organization was developed by the parents of Hannah's friend to help raise awareness for mental health and the stigma associated with it. Being able to openly talk about depression and suicide at such a young age enlightened Hannah about the invisible struggles that people experience. This experience gave Hannah the desire to pursue a career in the field of mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/521bba2f-cc9e-4a57-8348-e546f9357c71/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224 (Online Only)
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.
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![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c6c34a1-c51a-47d8-8de7-e137fb13d77c/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224
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 lakeisha Love - Ada Psychiatry, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/306cf4cc-aae2-4941-980a-7f2326074351/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ada Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85225
Lakeisha Love is dual certified in Family medicine and Family Psychiatry. She thrives on being her authentic self in order to build healthy positive relationships with her clients. Lakeisha demonstrates compassion, empathy, and honesty. Through building positive relationships, she helps individuals break their silence in mental health. Her goal is to help her clients get back to healing so they feel their best selves. As outlined in her core values, Lakeisha’s shared decision-making approach allows her to be a part of her client's journey.
Lakeisha Love is dual certified in Family medicine and Family Psychiatry. She thrives on being her authentic self in order to build healthy positive relationships with her clients. Lakeisha demonstrates compassion, empathy, and honesty. Through building positive relationships, she helps individuals break their silence in mental health. Her goal is to help her clients get back to healing so they feel their best selves. As outlined in her core values, Lakeisha’s shared decision-making approach allows her to be a part of her client's journey.
![Photo of Frances Spink - Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, DNP, MSN, MBA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98ac09a4-72b5-4307-a411-8dbfd9615d43/1/320x400.png)
Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Arizona! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Arizona! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fa40319-2f75-48f1-a866-01290ce15172/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/596cabd7-51e8-44b3-ac6a-8406e200ef82/1/320x400.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 Sarita Vijay, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bd0afe5-bcd2-4304-ba7d-406940c8dda7/1/320x400.png)
Sarita is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and has been practicing since 2022. Previously, she had been working as a cardiovascular nurse for more than 20 years. During her work as a nurse, she had the opportunity to work with many patients with mental health issues and developed a passion for helping people with mental illnesses. This, as well as her own personal experiences with her family, inspired her to become a mental health nurse practitioner. Sarita believes that through kindness and a holistic, person-centered approach, a big difference can be made in the lives of people who suffer mental health issues.
Sarita is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and has been practicing since 2022. Previously, she had been working as a cardiovascular nurse for more than 20 years. During her work as a nurse, she had the opportunity to work with many patients with mental health issues and developed a passion for helping people with mental illnesses. This, as well as her own personal experiences with her family, inspired her to become a mental health nurse practitioner. Sarita believes that through kindness and a holistic, person-centered approach, a big difference can be made in the lives of people who suffer mental health issues.
![Photo of Nellie Idara Samuel - Vitalis Wellness of Phoenix, AZ, DNP, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2de21a96-a2be-4f12-bce3-05fce7c14507/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vitalis Wellness of Phoenix, AZ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85248
Dr. Nellie Samuel is a Doctorate Level Board Certified Psychiatry Nurse with many years of Clinical experience in treating patients with Mental health needs across the life Span. Dr. Nellie is thoroughly experienced in treating Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders. At Vitalis Wellness Center of Phoenix; she works in close Collaboration and Partnership with a Quadruple Board Certified Child and Adolescent Physician Psychiatrist, who is also Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Brain Injury Medicine. Your mental health is important to us at Vitalis!
Dr. Nellie Samuel is a Doctorate Level Board Certified Psychiatry Nurse with many years of Clinical experience in treating patients with Mental health needs across the life Span. Dr. Nellie is thoroughly experienced in treating Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders. At Vitalis Wellness Center of Phoenix; she works in close Collaboration and Partnership with a Quadruple Board Certified Child and Adolescent Physician Psychiatrist, who is also Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Brain Injury Medicine. Your mental health is important to us at Vitalis!
![Photo of Jasita Sachar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40af48f5-50f8-41f3-b470-fcc08889b7d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jasita Sachar is a board-certified general psychiatrist who helps adults with various psychiatric disorders. Dr. Sachar uses evidence-based and comprehensive approaches to provide the best results for her patients.
Dr. Jasita Sachar is a board-certified general psychiatrist who helps adults with various psychiatric disorders. Dr. Sachar uses evidence-based and comprehensive approaches to provide the best results for her patients.
![Photo of Lauren Kiraly, PAC, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa8a7d72-f6df-4158-a9c5-35189bb6456a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren’s interest in mental health was ignited while listening to her grandfather’s stories about helping patients heal through reconstructive plastic surgery. She goes beyond learning about her patients’ health history to truly understand their feelings and concerns. Lauren is board-certified and helps children, adolescents, and adults.
Lauren’s interest in mental health was ignited while listening to her grandfather’s stories about helping patients heal through reconstructive plastic surgery. She goes beyond learning about her patients’ health history to truly understand their feelings and concerns. Lauren is board-certified and helps children, adolescents, and adults.
See more therapy options for Chandler
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | ADHD |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Aetna |
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Chandler?
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.