Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2968368f-d7e2-40fa-8444-437a675a054a/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Tabitha Arey, MSN, PMHNPBC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2cba66b-e79c-44e4-b7f8-b2e0ea2290b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 The shame and stigma surrounding mental health and psychiatric medications is outdated and it is my goal to make sure you feel safe, supported, and comfortable to be exactly who you are in my office.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 The shame and stigma surrounding mental health and psychiatric medications is outdated and it is my goal to make sure you feel safe, supported, and comfortable to be exactly who you are in my office.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.
![Photo of Brian Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ea63123-cfb1-4775-94d5-070dfe8ad68c/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Danielle Putrow, PsyNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d5553f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Michelle Gilreath, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CEN, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1d6e968-12cd-40ac-9c72-aa2b30fc0d2b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Gilreath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CEN, CCRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284 (Online Only)
I am a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for providing quality mental health care, serving all of Arizona. I am excited to extend a warm welcome to individuals seeking mental health support through the convenience of Telehealth services. I specialize in working with clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and mood disorders.
I am a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for providing quality mental health care, serving all of Arizona. I am excited to extend a warm welcome to individuals seeking mental health support through the convenience of Telehealth services. I specialize in working with clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Sally Herman, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b692021a-3091-4aee-8562-f083f9e12ebc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sally Herman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Hello! I have been involved with nursing care for over 39 years specializing in trauma, and intensive care with an emphasis on pediatrics. I simply love my career as a nurse practitioner and don't consider it a job but a lifestyle of caring. As one who has always had the heart to see others live full and abundant lives, I furthered my acute nursing degree into the world of psychiatry having noted all the traumas around the world that required this type of education to properly implement a caring hand with evidence-based knowledge.
Hello! I have been involved with nursing care for over 39 years specializing in trauma, and intensive care with an emphasis on pediatrics. I simply love my career as a nurse practitioner and don't consider it a job but a lifestyle of caring. As one who has always had the heart to see others live full and abundant lives, I furthered my acute nursing degree into the world of psychiatry having noted all the traumas around the world that required this type of education to properly implement a caring hand with evidence-based knowledge.
![Photo of Karla Lamley - Integrative Psychiatric Services , FNPC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6dd77a6-b814-465d-94aa-fbd44262e169/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Jennifer Muhammad, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce1c25d6-0b7c-4d81-b79b-316d9ed75e48/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Muhammad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
NEW Clients Accepted - Ages 10 and up - In-Office or Video Visits Available - Phoenix, Buckeye, Casa Grande, Chandler, Flagstaff, Mesa, Scottsdale, Tempe, Tucson, etc. At Healthy Wings Psychiatric Healthcare, we specialize in taking the time to get to know you and your mental health care concerns - you will not find an overcrowded waiting room or experience a rushed appointment. We are dedicated to helping you and your family to receive the care and respect you deserve! For faster service, visit our website to BOOK an appointment NOW for stress-free evaluations, lab testing, medication management, and psychotherapy/counseling.
NEW Clients Accepted - Ages 10 and up - In-Office or Video Visits Available - Phoenix, Buckeye, Casa Grande, Chandler, Flagstaff, Mesa, Scottsdale, Tempe, Tucson, etc. At Healthy Wings Psychiatric Healthcare, we specialize in taking the time to get to know you and your mental health care concerns - you will not find an overcrowded waiting room or experience a rushed appointment. We are dedicated to helping you and your family to receive the care and respect you deserve! For faster service, visit our website to BOOK an appointment NOW for stress-free evaluations, lab testing, medication management, and psychotherapy/counseling.
![Photo of Dr. Jade Goodloe, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d3ff5a4-44ca-44fa-8a8e-3bb7a30c3c24/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281 (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
![Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f1c23e1-1339-4030-bdc7-cdbae563e24c/1/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Jamie Gustafson - AZ Holistic Anxiety Treatment, LLC/Jamie Gustafson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb3481a1-941d-4445-93b7-e3a73872ef02/1/320x400.jpeg)
AZ Holistic Anxiety Treatment, LLC/Jamie Gustafson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
If you are tired of not getting answers, being told you will always feel this way, and suffering in silence, you are in the right place. I specialize in non-traditional symptoms and treatment resistant presentations of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD.
If you are tired of not getting answers, being told you will always feel this way, and suffering in silence, you are in the right place. I specialize in non-traditional symptoms and treatment resistant presentations of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD.
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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.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02c6efcb-72f0-4f4b-bf94-0574e227811b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
Calm Psych is an outstanding patient-centered psychiatric mental health clinic catering to individuals of all ages in Tempe and Gilbert, Arizona. Led by Dr. Priti Patel, MD, the collaborative team provides comprehensive support and specialized treatment, fostering the well-being of their patients. The team is easy to reach via text messages and communicates with patients promptly. During an initial consultation, the providers learn about the patient’s goals and walk alongside them, helping them achieve overall health.
Calm Psych is an outstanding patient-centered psychiatric mental health clinic catering to individuals of all ages in Tempe and Gilbert, Arizona. Led by Dr. Priti Patel, MD, the collaborative team provides comprehensive support and specialized treatment, fostering the well-being of their patients. The team is easy to reach via text messages and communicates with patients promptly. During an initial consultation, the providers learn about the patient’s goals and walk alongside them, helping them achieve overall health.
![Photo of Janine Dukuze - Brightstar Health Solutions, LLC , AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/474ba7ce-e7ac-4edb-bb70-f60e90039713/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brightstar Health Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Welcome to Brightstar Health Solutions, LLC. We are Accepting new patients in person and via telehealth. Our provider Janine Dukuze, AGNP/PMHNP is a duo-certified Nurse Practitioner. She has over 10 years of NP experience. We treat adult patients suffering with various psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, psychosis, traumatic life experiences, interpersonal relationship, substance abuse addiction. We provide psychotherapy for individuals/families, as well as medication management.
Welcome to Brightstar Health Solutions, LLC. We are Accepting new patients in person and via telehealth. Our provider Janine Dukuze, AGNP/PMHNP is a duo-certified Nurse Practitioner. She has over 10 years of NP experience. We treat adult patients suffering with various psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, psychosis, traumatic life experiences, interpersonal relationship, substance abuse addiction. We provide psychotherapy for individuals/families, as well as medication management.
![Photo of Sarah Jennings, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc2b14a7-c801-4971-8e61-e1741260b44d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Jennings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have always had a passion for helping people obtain better mental healthcare. I like to collaborate with my patients to ensure that they can make educated decisions about their mental health treatment options. I currently specialize in serving adolescents and adults with mental health disorders or concerns. I look forward to meeting you at Iridescent Counseling's peaceful office space. Tele-med is available as well.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have always had a passion for helping people obtain better mental healthcare. I like to collaborate with my patients to ensure that they can make educated decisions about their mental health treatment options. I currently specialize in serving adolescents and adults with mental health disorders or concerns. I look forward to meeting you at Iridescent Counseling's peaceful office space. Tele-med is available as well.
![Photo of Allysen Kelly, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5aa4be8f-15a5-4eb2-94b3-f55c5925c63c/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Benitho Louissaint, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfb394b-b909-44ed-8fb1-62ed230746a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Benitho Louissaint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Mission statement: Samaria Behavioral Health Center’s (SBHC) mission strives to provide the highest level of mental wellness for the community. The clients range from adolescents to geriatric patients. We promise to provide culturally competent, comprehensive, compassionate, evidence-based, wellness-focused care that promotes a safe space for optimal mental health recovery.
Mission statement: Samaria Behavioral Health Center’s (SBHC) mission strives to provide the highest level of mental wellness for the community. The clients range from adolescents to geriatric patients. We promise to provide culturally competent, comprehensive, compassionate, evidence-based, wellness-focused care that promotes a safe space for optimal mental health recovery.
![Photo of Herendira Valdez Shahnaz, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fba2e74-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Herendira Valdez Shahnaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
My name is Dr. Herendira Valdez-Shahnaz, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 16 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey!
My name is Dr. Herendira Valdez-Shahnaz, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 16 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey!
![Photo of Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd, PLLC, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/130717cd-e0f4-4f2d-9296-bae5243bf4a1/1/320x400.png)
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.
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
99% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Tempe, AZ see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | 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.