Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV
Shanna Schreurs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110 (Online Only)
My name is Shanna Schreurs, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have 10 years of experience, and I strive to get to know each patient as an individual to tailor treatment to their unique needs. I take a whole-person approach to mental health treatment. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Accelerated Resolution Therapy in addition to managing medication. I feel strongly that the best outcomes are possible with a combination of therapy and medication when needed to address mental health concerns.
My name is Shanna Schreurs, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have 10 years of experience, and I strive to get to know each patient as an individual to tailor treatment to their unique needs. I take a whole-person approach to mental health treatment. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Accelerated Resolution Therapy in addition to managing medication. I feel strongly that the best outcomes are possible with a combination of therapy and medication when needed to address mental health concerns.
Patients that I see want to get better and find out why they are having problems. My practice is largely devoted to mood and thought disorders. I am a minimalist when it comes to using psychiatric medications. I am often seeing folks who are either over-medicated and/or on the wrong types of medications. The 2 letters after my surname are M and D. To me, these letters not only stand for Medical Doctor, but almost more important to me, is they stand for Medical Detective.
Patients that I see want to get better and find out why they are having problems. My practice is largely devoted to mood and thought disorders. I am a minimalist when it comes to using psychiatric medications. I am often seeing folks who are either over-medicated and/or on the wrong types of medications. The 2 letters after my surname are M and D. To me, these letters not only stand for Medical Doctor, but almost more important to me, is they stand for Medical Detective.
Nicole C Okeke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89107
I am a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatric Mental health. I also have a license as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my post graduate training from University of Nevada, Las Vegas and University of South Alabama, Mobile Alabama. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for over fourteen years. I am a caring, compassionate, and competent psychiatric nurse provider committed to providing individually appropriate health care to you and your family. My goal is to help improve your mental health as well as your overall health.
I am a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatric Mental health. I also have a license as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my post graduate training from University of Nevada, Las Vegas and University of South Alabama, Mobile Alabama. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for over fourteen years. I am a caring, compassionate, and competent psychiatric nurse provider committed to providing individually appropriate health care to you and your family. My goal is to help improve your mental health as well as your overall health.
My name is Grace Korir, a Primary Healthcare Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I provide mental health care via telehealth throughout the state. My goal is to provide exceptional mental health care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges by providing support and treatment for better mental health outcomes. I am passionate about destigmatizing and promoting mental health wellness. My clients know me for my empathetic approach, excellent communication skills, and ability to build trusting relationship with individuals of diverse backgrounds.
My name is Grace Korir, a Primary Healthcare Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I provide mental health care via telehealth throughout the state. My goal is to provide exceptional mental health care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges by providing support and treatment for better mental health outcomes. I am passionate about destigmatizing and promoting mental health wellness. My clients know me for my empathetic approach, excellent communication skills, and ability to build trusting relationship with individuals of diverse backgrounds.
Shailendra Jain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110 (Online Only)
My name is Shailendra Jain, and I am a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. I have been doing Psych NP role for past 3 years. I like to talk to patient not only mental health concern but also, look to see if the medical problems are taking tool on their mental health. I believe in therapy and less medication. Finding the underlying cause and doing therapy. Less medication approach and more therapy to avoid long term side effects from meds. I was in the US Navy and so I am a Combat Veteran. I have been getting help for my trauma that I had during combat and so I decided to go and help other with mental health problem.
My name is Shailendra Jain, and I am a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. I have been doing Psych NP role for past 3 years. I like to talk to patient not only mental health concern but also, look to see if the medical problems are taking tool on their mental health. I believe in therapy and less medication. Finding the underlying cause and doing therapy. Less medication approach and more therapy to avoid long term side effects from meds. I was in the US Navy and so I am a Combat Veteran. I have been getting help for my trauma that I had during combat and so I decided to go and help other with mental health problem.
Reimund Serafica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110 (Online Only)
My name is Reimund Serafica, I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. My expertise lies in adult mental health, particularly in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stressor-related disorders, attention deficit disorders, schizophrenia, and psychotic disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health, integrating both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic methods to address the diverse needs of my patients.
My name is Reimund Serafica, I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. My expertise lies in adult mental health, particularly in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stressor-related disorders, attention deficit disorders, schizophrenia, and psychotic disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to mental health, integrating both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic methods to address the diverse needs of my patients.
My goal is to promote mental and physical well-being of my clients. I am dedicated to help individuals and families find solutions to life's challenges.
My goal is to promote mental and physical well-being of my clients. I am dedicated to help individuals and families find solutions to life's challenges.
Progressive Psychiatric Services
Psychiatrist, MD, PA-C, PMHNP, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89146
We are a leading psychiatric clinic that is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health care to our patients. Our clinic is dedicated to improving the lives of our patients through evidence-based treatments and therapies, cutting-edge research, and personalized care. At Progressive Psychiatric Services, we understand that mental health conditions can be complex and often require individualized treatment plans. That's why we offer a range of services, including medication management, therapy, Suboxone/Buprenorphine/Subutex, and innovative treatments such as Esketamine (Spravato ; nasal spray). We proudly serve our Veterans.
We are a leading psychiatric clinic that is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health care to our patients. Our clinic is dedicated to improving the lives of our patients through evidence-based treatments and therapies, cutting-edge research, and personalized care. At Progressive Psychiatric Services, we understand that mental health conditions can be complex and often require individualized treatment plans. That's why we offer a range of services, including medication management, therapy, Suboxone/Buprenorphine/Subutex, and innovative treatments such as Esketamine (Spravato ; nasal spray). We proudly serve our Veterans.
Onyekachi Emereuwaonu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89146
Onyekachi is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her nursing career when her last baby was five years old and in kindergarten as an Associate Degree Nurse working at a Post-partum unit in 2007. She eventually returned to school for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Grand Canyon University and Master of Science in Nursing at Maryville University while working as a Nurse Leader in the Neuro unit of another hospital in the metropolitan area of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Onyekachi is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She started her nursing career when her last baby was five years old and in kindergarten as an Associate Degree Nurse working at a Post-partum unit in 2007. She eventually returned to school for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Grand Canyon University and Master of Science in Nursing at Maryville University while working as a Nurse Leader in the Neuro unit of another hospital in the metropolitan area of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Tanner Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89103
Are you experiencing any sadness, anxiety, PTSD, mood swings, anger, stress, grief, low self-esteem, or loneliness, etc. ? If so, seek help today! We will use clinical expertise to develop an individualized care plan to meet your needs. Accepting new patients, while providing convenient services via telehealth. Call today to begin an individualized, evidence-based treatment plan to accommodate your mental health concerns. Let's get you on the path to improving your lifestyle and quality of life..
Are you experiencing any sadness, anxiety, PTSD, mood swings, anger, stress, grief, low self-esteem, or loneliness, etc. ? If so, seek help today! We will use clinical expertise to develop an individualized care plan to meet your needs. Accepting new patients, while providing convenient services via telehealth. Call today to begin an individualized, evidence-based treatment plan to accommodate your mental health concerns. Let's get you on the path to improving your lifestyle and quality of life..
Dithra Cotton-Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89102
Providing the highest quality, compassionate health care to our clients, families, and others in need, facing challenges in there daily lifestyle.
Providing the highest quality, compassionate health care to our clients, families, and others in need, facing challenges in there daily lifestyle.
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Leah Gaitho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89110 (Online Only)
Hi there, I’m Leah! For me, mental health is all about helping individuals get in touch with their true self. I have spent the past 4 years working as a provider to do just that. When I'm not practicing, I'm at home with my family and our dog-German shepherd, cooking, or just try to relax-meditation and or hiking. I enjoy quietness. My approach I set clear goals for myself and my clients and treat every session as an opportunity to make progress. I approach treatment with an eclectic assortment of approaches and tools to individualize our work together to meet your needs best.
Hi there, I’m Leah! For me, mental health is all about helping individuals get in touch with their true self. I have spent the past 4 years working as a provider to do just that. When I'm not practicing, I'm at home with my family and our dog-German shepherd, cooking, or just try to relax-meditation and or hiking. I enjoy quietness. My approach I set clear goals for myself and my clients and treat every session as an opportunity to make progress. I approach treatment with an eclectic assortment of approaches and tools to individualize our work together to meet your needs best.
Deborah Louise Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PhD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89128
I am dual licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Provider. I am able to perform both in-person and virtual appointments to meet your needs if you live in a rural, underserved area or are unable to attend in-office appointments due to lack of transportation or disability
I am dual licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Provider. I am able to perform both in-person and virtual appointments to meet your needs if you live in a rural, underserved area or are unable to attend in-office appointments due to lack of transportation or disability
“The choice to seek help for a mental health condition can be a difficult one. Depression and other mental health conditions can be very painful, confusing, and isolating, making it hard for people to recognize that they may be experiencing an illness. Patients often come to see us in a time of crisis, sometimes after years of suffering without treatment or trying multiple therapies with little success. No matter where you are along your path, we’re here to help. Hablamos Espanol. No sufra mas.
“The choice to seek help for a mental health condition can be a difficult one. Depression and other mental health conditions can be very painful, confusing, and isolating, making it hard for people to recognize that they may be experiencing an illness. Patients often come to see us in a time of crisis, sometimes after years of suffering without treatment or trying multiple therapies with little success. No matter where you are along your path, we’re here to help. Hablamos Espanol. No sufra mas.
Chika Okechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89107
Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Chika Okechukwu has more than 7 years experience as a Nurse Practitioner. She is involved in the management of various mental health and behavioral health conditions including, mood disorders, Attention deficit and Hyperactivity disorder, Generalized anxiety disorder, Insomnia and substance use disorder. Every patient receives a personalized care plan after a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. She is passionate about patients having quick access to mental care.
Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Chika Okechukwu has more than 7 years experience as a Nurse Practitioner. She is involved in the management of various mental health and behavioral health conditions including, mood disorders, Attention deficit and Hyperactivity disorder, Generalized anxiety disorder, Insomnia and substance use disorder. Every patient receives a personalized care plan after a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. She is passionate about patients having quick access to mental care.
Amy Lyn Wise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARPN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89148
Amy specializes in providing psychiatric care to adults and teens aged 12 and up who are navigating the complexities of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Her ideal clients are individuals and families seeking to understand and transform their mental health through evidence-based approaches, including medication management combined with cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices. They are looking for supportive, client-centered care that respects their unique experiences and fosters growth and well-being.
Amy specializes in providing psychiatric care to adults and teens aged 12 and up who are navigating the complexities of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Her ideal clients are individuals and families seeking to understand and transform their mental health through evidence-based approaches, including medication management combined with cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices. They are looking for supportive, client-centered care that respects their unique experiences and fosters growth and well-being.
Nathan Altavas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89118 (Online Only)
Nathan is here to help you improve your life and achieve your goals. He takes a holistic approach to make sure you cover all the bases. It is essential to treat each patient as a unique individual with their own needs and concerns, and not just focus on their disorder. He will take the time during your initial intake evaluation to understand you and your concerns. Following an in-depth interview and discussion, you will work together to find the best approach and treatment plan for your specific needs.
Nathan is here to help you improve your life and achieve your goals. He takes a holistic approach to make sure you cover all the bases. It is essential to treat each patient as a unique individual with their own needs and concerns, and not just focus on their disorder. He will take the time during your initial intake evaluation to understand you and your concerns. Following an in-depth interview and discussion, you will work together to find the best approach and treatment plan for your specific needs.
Travis Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89146
Providing evidence-based psychiatric medication and psychotherapy treatment with a caring attitude that is patient-centered. I see all ages and treat the broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, autistic spectrum, insomnia, psychosis, schizophrenia, intellectual disabilities, eating disorders, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorders.
Providing evidence-based psychiatric medication and psychotherapy treatment with a caring attitude that is patient-centered. I see all ages and treat the broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, autistic spectrum, insomnia, psychosis, schizophrenia, intellectual disabilities, eating disorders, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorders.
YourStory Psychiatry was founded on the belief that the most important stories are the ones we tell about ourselves. Unfortunately when it comes to mental health, these stories are often filled with shame, fear, and confusion - but it doesn’t have to be like this. At YourStory Psychiatry, we pride ourselves on our holistic, strength-based, and culturally sensitive approach to mental health. By combining psychotherapy with conservative medication management, Dr. Ponce de Leon will help you change your story to one of hope and resilience.
YourStory Psychiatry was founded on the belief that the most important stories are the ones we tell about ourselves. Unfortunately when it comes to mental health, these stories are often filled with shame, fear, and confusion - but it doesn’t have to be like this. At YourStory Psychiatry, we pride ourselves on our holistic, strength-based, and culturally sensitive approach to mental health. By combining psychotherapy with conservative medication management, Dr. Ponce de Leon will help you change your story to one of hope and resilience.
Michelle Giddings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89107
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating clients with medical/mental health disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for child, adolescent, and adults. My approach to treatment is driven by my belief that every client is a unique individual; thus, treatment plans are specifically developed for each client.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating clients with medical/mental health disorders. I utilize a holistic approach to psychiatric care by integrating core values in medical/nursing practice and evidence-based psychiatric treatments. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for child, adolescent, and adults. My approach to treatment is driven by my belief that every client is a unique individual; thus, treatment plans are specifically developed for each client.
See more therapy options for Las Vegas
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV
200+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | ADHD |
75% | Medication Management |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Las Vegas, NV see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Las Vegas?
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.