Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ
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.
Nicole Bartreau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, IBCLC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
Accepting new patients in-person or virtual! Through my own personal experiences, I have gained a unique passion for helping adolescents and young adults who struggle with mental health. Life can feel heavy while endlessly searching for resources! Navigating the system can make you second-guess everything and wonder if anyone truly cares. If you think this way, take a deep breath and know you do not have to feel helpless. I am here to listen, support, and advocate. Everyone deserves a safe and judgment-free space to get help, and you are taking the first step by reaching out! I am a mom in the queer community and a strong ally.
Accepting new patients in-person or virtual! Through my own personal experiences, I have gained a unique passion for helping adolescents and young adults who struggle with mental health. Life can feel heavy while endlessly searching for resources! Navigating the system can make you second-guess everything and wonder if anyone truly cares. If you think this way, take a deep breath and know you do not have to feel helpless. I am here to listen, support, and advocate. Everyone deserves a safe and judgment-free space to get help, and you are taking the first step by reaching out! I am a mom in the queer community and a strong ally.
Dr. Nicole Lyons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85249 (Online Only)
All patients welcome! I'm Dr. Nicole Lyons, my approach to psychiatric care is both empathetic and collaborative. I believe everyone has the potential to make positive changes and live their best lives, with the help of tools I can provide. My hope is that my patients leave their visits with knowledge about their diagnosis and treatment, motivation to continue to make positive changes, a sense of empowerment and to know you are not alone in this journey.
All patients welcome! I'm Dr. Nicole Lyons, my approach to psychiatric care is both empathetic and collaborative. I believe everyone has the potential to make positive changes and live their best lives, with the help of tools I can provide. My hope is that my patients leave their visits with knowledge about their diagnosis and treatment, motivation to continue to make positive changes, a sense of empowerment and to know you are not alone in this journey.
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.
Tracy Schelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85286
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the process of feeling better? Are you worried about side effects of medications? I believe in a collaborative approach where you have a voice in your treatment. We work together to help you reach your goals. I believe in a multi-faceted treatment approach and you will have a say in your treatment strategy. I provide medication management services and psychotherapy to adults 18 years and older. I use a holistic approach and spend time providing education about diagnosis and treatment options.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the process of feeling better? Are you worried about side effects of medications? I believe in a collaborative approach where you have a voice in your treatment. We work together to help you reach your goals. I believe in a multi-faceted treatment approach and you will have a say in your treatment strategy. I provide medication management services and psychotherapy to adults 18 years and older. I use a holistic approach and spend time providing education about diagnosis and treatment options.
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.
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.
Dr. Michaela Beaver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
You Deserve to Feel Better. Are you a family with kids who are struggling with big feelings, anxiety, or sadness? You're not alone. Millions of families face these challenges every day. I'm a psychiatric NP who specializes in integrative psychiatric care. I offer a comprehensive approach that starts with a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Then, we work together to develop a personalized care plan that includes individualized testing recommendations, health coaching, medications, and supplements. My goal is to help you and your family feel better and regain control of your lives. I'm here to help you achieve that goal.
You Deserve to Feel Better. Are you a family with kids who are struggling with big feelings, anxiety, or sadness? You're not alone. Millions of families face these challenges every day. I'm a psychiatric NP who specializes in integrative psychiatric care. I offer a comprehensive approach that starts with a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Then, we work together to develop a personalized care plan that includes individualized testing recommendations, health coaching, medications, and supplements. My goal is to help you and your family feel better and regain control of your lives. I'm here to help you achieve that goal.
At Reverie, our expert team of licensed psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based mental health care in a safe, non-judgmental environment. We offer a wide range of therapeutic services tailored to each client's unique needs, encompassing anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, trauma recovery, and more.
At Reverie, our expert team of licensed psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based mental health care in a safe, non-judgmental environment. We offer a wide range of therapeutic services tailored to each client's unique needs, encompassing anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, trauma recovery, and more.
Albert McNames
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-ED, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85226 (Online Only)
My approach is rooted in a deep respect for the uniqueness of each individual's narrative. I believe in the transformative power of empathetic listening, collaborative treatment planning, and evidence-based interventions to support my patients on their paths to recovery. My clinical practice spans diverse settings, from outpatient clinics to inpatient psychiatric units.
My approach is rooted in a deep respect for the uniqueness of each individual's narrative. I believe in the transformative power of empathetic listening, collaborative treatment planning, and evidence-based interventions to support my patients on their paths to recovery. My clinical practice spans diverse settings, from outpatient clinics to inpatient psychiatric units.
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.
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Catherine Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85225
Hello! I’m Catherine, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide holistic care to individuals ages 10 and up with ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, and more.
Hello! I’m Catherine, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide holistic care to individuals ages 10 and up with ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, and more.
Neurology Associates of the East Valley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APMHNP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224
Accepting New Patients …Life can throw many roadblocks in your way. We sometimes have the tools to cope with these issues and then there are times that we must ask for help. Everyone has their own needs, strengths, weaknesses and goals. Acknowledgement of what is happening in one's life and realizing that necessary changes are needed is the basis for treatment. I believe in taking an individualized approach with each person and working together for the best possible outcome. This may require various approaches to achieve this but it is all about getting back to a place of acceptance and peace.
Accepting New Patients …Life can throw many roadblocks in your way. We sometimes have the tools to cope with these issues and then there are times that we must ask for help. Everyone has their own needs, strengths, weaknesses and goals. Acknowledgement of what is happening in one's life and realizing that necessary changes are needed is the basis for treatment. I believe in taking an individualized approach with each person and working together for the best possible outcome. This may require various approaches to achieve this but it is all about getting back to a place of acceptance and peace.
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!
Jill Abernathy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224 (Online Only)
Jill Abernathy is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Walden University with her Masters of Advance Nursing Practice and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Jill works with patients across the lifespan and has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental health field. Over the years, Jill has gained experience working in diverse settings, including: inpatient psychiatric hospitals, intensive outpatient substance abuse programs, assertive community treatment (ACT), and crisis intervention.
Jill Abernathy is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Walden University with her Masters of Advance Nursing Practice and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Jill works with patients across the lifespan and has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental health field. Over the years, Jill has gained experience working in diverse settings, including: inpatient psychiatric hospitals, intensive outpatient substance abuse programs, assertive community treatment (ACT), and crisis intervention.
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.
Ana McNabb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85248 (Online Only)
Ana loves working with a diverse spectrum of patients. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she works with patients of ages 5 and older, and very passionate about providing them the care they need. Whether looking to address mood dysregulation, poor focus and attention, depression, anxiety or other mental health symptoms, she can offer the medication management support you need to be your "best self." Her approachable, kind nature, makes her super popular with her patients!
Ana loves working with a diverse spectrum of patients. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she works with patients of ages 5 and older, and very passionate about providing them the care they need. Whether looking to address mood dysregulation, poor focus and attention, depression, anxiety or other mental health symptoms, she can offer the medication management support you need to be your "best self." Her approachable, kind nature, makes her super popular with her patients!
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.
Lifeologie Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85225
Lifeologie Wellness: Collaborate, Holistic Care & Comprehensive Options. We specialize in fostering holistic well-being by offering traditional mental health services with complementary therapies all in one place. Whether it's counseling/therapy, psychiatry/medication services, yoga, and other mindfulness practices, for overall well-being, we're here for you. We are committed to guiding individuals on a path of healing, self-discovery, and balanced living by offering a variety of services in a comprehensive, quality-based approach.
Lifeologie Wellness: Collaborate, Holistic Care & Comprehensive Options. We specialize in fostering holistic well-being by offering traditional mental health services with complementary therapies all in one place. Whether it's counseling/therapy, psychiatry/medication services, yoga, and other mindfulness practices, for overall well-being, we're here for you. We are committed to guiding individuals on a path of healing, self-discovery, and balanced living by offering a variety of services in a comprehensive, quality-based approach.
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.
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 |
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
84% | ADHD |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Aetna |
97% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | 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.