Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ
Sarita is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and has been practicing since 2022. Previously, she had been working as a cardiovascular nurse for more than 20 years. During her work as a nurse, she had the opportunity to work with many patients with mental health issues and developed a passion for helping people with mental illnesses. This, as well as her own personal experiences with her family, inspired her to become a mental health nurse practitioner. Sarita believes that through kindness and a holistic, person-centered approach, a big difference can be made in the lives of people who suffer mental health issues.
Sarita is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and has been practicing since 2022. Previously, she had been working as a cardiovascular nurse for more than 20 years. During her work as a nurse, she had the opportunity to work with many patients with mental health issues and developed a passion for helping people with mental illnesses. This, as well as her own personal experiences with her family, inspired her to become a mental health nurse practitioner. Sarita believes that through kindness and a holistic, person-centered approach, a big difference can be made in the lives of people who suffer mental health issues.
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.
Many people I work with find themselves struggling with anxiety, depression, and perhaps even struggling with relationships or work. If this sounds like you, congratulations on taking the first step in trying to find a provider that can help you. I'd be happy to meet you for a free and brief (about 15 min) phone call to discuss what you are hoping to address. In the event that at we agree to move forward with an intake appointment, during our first appointment we'll discuss what is bringing you to treatment, some of your past that may or may not be effecting you today, and next steps.
Many people I work with find themselves struggling with anxiety, depression, and perhaps even struggling with relationships or work. If this sounds like you, congratulations on taking the first step in trying to find a provider that can help you. I'd be happy to meet you for a free and brief (about 15 min) phone call to discuss what you are hoping to address. In the event that at we agree to move forward with an intake appointment, during our first appointment we'll discuss what is bringing you to treatment, some of your past that may or may not be effecting you today, and next steps.
Dr. Jasita Sachar is a board-certified general psychiatrist who helps adults with various psychiatric disorders. Dr. Sachar uses evidence-based and comprehensive approaches to provide the best results for her patients.
Dr. Jasita Sachar is a board-certified general psychiatrist who helps adults with various psychiatric disorders. Dr. Sachar uses evidence-based and comprehensive approaches to provide the best results for her patients.
Dr. Alexandra Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
Dr. Alexandra Moore is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Paradigm Psychiatry. She graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Moore is compassionate and uses a holistic approach to patient care. She began her training with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing through an accelerated program at St. Joseph’s Hospital campus of Grand Canyon University. Dr. Moore furthered her education with Grand Canyon University and obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in nursing education as well.
Dr. Alexandra Moore is a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Paradigm Psychiatry. She graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Moore is compassionate and uses a holistic approach to patient care. She began her training with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing through an accelerated program at St. Joseph’s Hospital campus of Grand Canyon University. Dr. Moore furthered her education with Grand Canyon University and obtained a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in nursing education as well.
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.
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
Kelly Huffaker is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Kelly has always had a strong passion for mental and behavioral health, which began early in her career as a Behavioral Health Technician and then a Psychiatric Registered Nurse. Her journey in the mental health field has provided her with a comprehensive understanding and knowledge of various aspects of mental health care, having worked across crisis, hospital, and outpatient settings.
Kelly Huffaker is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Kelly has always had a strong passion for mental and behavioral health, which began early in her career as a Behavioral Health Technician and then a Psychiatric Registered Nurse. Her journey in the mental health field has provided her with a comprehensive understanding and knowledge of various aspects of mental health care, having worked across crisis, hospital, and outpatient settings.
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
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.
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.
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My approach is individualized and focused on meeting you where you are on your journey with a desire to help you achieve your short- and long-term needs and goals. Whether it’s taking baby steps or great strides to address personal challenges, I will work closely with you to find the best combination of therapies and medication to maximize your potential for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
My approach is individualized and focused on meeting you where you are on your journey with a desire to help you achieve your short- and long-term needs and goals. Whether it’s taking baby steps or great strides to address personal challenges, I will work closely with you to find the best combination of therapies and medication to maximize your potential for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Molly Jubeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85286 (Online Only)
Are you frustrated with impersonal, rushed psychiatric care? Are you seeking a provider who takes the time to get to know you, thoroughly explains treatment options, and genuinely cares about you? Are you tired of seeing providers who only spend 10 minutes checking boxes and refilling medications so they can hurry off to the next patient? What would it be like to have a psychiatric provider who personally responds to your needs and looks at the whole picture, going beyond quickly prescribing medication as the only option? You deserve to feel truly supported and to have an experienced guide to help you navigate your healing journey.
Are you frustrated with impersonal, rushed psychiatric care? Are you seeking a provider who takes the time to get to know you, thoroughly explains treatment options, and genuinely cares about you? Are you tired of seeing providers who only spend 10 minutes checking boxes and refilling medications so they can hurry off to the next patient? What would it be like to have a psychiatric provider who personally responds to your needs and looks at the whole picture, going beyond quickly prescribing medication as the only option? You deserve to feel truly supported and to have an experienced guide to help you navigate your healing journey.
Kofi Omane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85226 (Online Only)
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to guiding you towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. With over 9 years of experience in the field, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and ADHD. My approach is centered on understanding you as a whole person. I believe that effective mental health care goes beyond symptoms and diagnoses. By listening to your unique story, exploring your individual strengths, and collaborating on personalized treatment plans, we can take steps toward a brighter, more balanced future.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to guiding you towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. With over 9 years of experience in the field, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and ADHD. My approach is centered on understanding you as a whole person. I believe that effective mental health care goes beyond symptoms and diagnoses. By listening to your unique story, exploring your individual strengths, and collaborating on personalized treatment plans, we can take steps toward a brighter, more balanced future.
I like to think that I started my medical career in the summer of 2008, when I started working at a vitamin company as a wash boy. From there I started manufacturing vitamins and became fascinated with pharmaceuticals and medicine. I am proud to say I followed my dream and now I'm able to provide mental health services for my community. From certified nursing assistant to Doctorate of Nursing practice; I have worked with several clients throughout the lifespan and know that Psychiatry is my calling. See you soon!
I like to think that I started my medical career in the summer of 2008, when I started working at a vitamin company as a wash boy. From there I started manufacturing vitamins and became fascinated with pharmaceuticals and medicine. I am proud to say I followed my dream and now I'm able to provide mental health services for my community. From certified nursing assistant to Doctorate of Nursing practice; I have worked with several clients throughout the lifespan and know that Psychiatry is my calling. See you soon!
Maricopa Christian Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85225 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. Jane Lao is a Dual-Certified Nurse Practitioner who specializes in both Family medicine and Psychiatry. She has a passion for empowering patients to advocate for their best physical and mental health. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or attention difficulty, we can help you. Get the care you need from the comfort of your home. Maricopa Christian Psychiatry (MCP) is a mental health clinic that provide services across Arizona. MCP team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and a therapist offers compassionate, non-judgmental, and evidence-based psychiatric services.
Accepting New Patients. Jane Lao is a Dual-Certified Nurse Practitioner who specializes in both Family medicine and Psychiatry. She has a passion for empowering patients to advocate for their best physical and mental health. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or attention difficulty, we can help you. Get the care you need from the comfort of your home. Maricopa Christian Psychiatry (MCP) is a mental health clinic that provide services across Arizona. MCP team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and a therapist offers compassionate, non-judgmental, and evidence-based psychiatric services.
Jessica Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85226 (Online Only)
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
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.
Dr. Michaela Beaver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
3 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.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
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.