Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ
![Photo of Molly Jubeck, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa4d0bbf-9ea6-4e7d-aa52-bae5fd073076/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Frances Spink - Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, DNP, MSN, MBA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98ac09a4-72b5-4307-a411-8dbfd9615d43/1/320x400.png)
Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, MBA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Arizona! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Arizona! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
![Photo of Adel Mostafavi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511f4cff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
![Photo of Kerby Brian McDonald - Neurology Associates of the East Valley, APMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439c28c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kionglee Jung, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fd6a5ed-b8bb-425c-bf11-68cefe334154/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kionglee Jung DNP, PMHNP, FNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner at Paradigm Psychiatry. She graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University in 2014. Through the years, she has gained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Massachusetts - Amherst, Master of Science in Biology from Yonsei University - Korea, and a diploma in Clinical Research from Toronto. Most of her nursing career of more than 10 years were in hospitals and clinical research trials located in Massachusetts and Toronto.
Kionglee Jung DNP, PMHNP, FNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner at Paradigm Psychiatry. She graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University in 2014. Through the years, she has gained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Massachusetts - Amherst, Master of Science in Biology from Yonsei University - Korea, and a diploma in Clinical Research from Toronto. Most of her nursing career of more than 10 years were in hospitals and clinical research trials located in Massachusetts and Toronto.
![Photo of Kofi Omane, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/035a60dd-ca60-4c90-8913-a14162610015/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jessica Rivera, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcfac37e-3259-4471-bb27-af7486c9f4d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
8 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.
![Photo of Dr. Nicole Lyons, DNP, AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d1e664f-ac47-4802-bb24-3e5ca957b182/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Anthony Vincent Olorunsola, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad10aa18-ed28-4156-908f-8d5a4780ff78/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony Vincent Olorunsola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85226 (Online Only)
At Health and Wellness Psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized treatment to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and we are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can feel comfortable seeking help. Our team of experienced professionals understands the unique challenges faced by individuals with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and other mental health disorders.
At Health and Wellness Psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized treatment to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and we are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can feel comfortable seeking help. Our team of experienced professionals understands the unique challenges faced by individuals with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and other mental health disorders.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d807f28-6bb9-4521-a77f-07aef148c220/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Jasita Sachar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40af48f5-50f8-41f3-b470-fcc08889b7d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jasita Sachar is a board-certified general psychiatrist who helps adults with various psychiatric disorders. Dr. Sachar uses evidence-based and comprehensive approaches to provide the best results for her patients.
Dr. Jasita Sachar is a board-certified general psychiatrist who helps adults with various psychiatric disorders. Dr. Sachar uses evidence-based and comprehensive approaches to provide the best results for her patients.
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![Photo of Jill Abernathy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67e802fd-eac5-41e8-bec6-9f7d189932c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Christy Olloh - Maricopa Christian Psychiatry, DNP, MSN, RNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/951f53c3-fb41-46a5-b0c8-bdbe3afc4901/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maricopa Christian Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, RNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85225 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Christy Olloh is a Family Psych-Mental Nurse Practitioner who is very passionate about mental health care. She provides non-judgmental, unrushed care to her patients and their families. 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 and other states. MCP team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and therapist offers compassionate, non-judgmental, and evidenced-based psychiatric services.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Dr. Christy Olloh is a Family Psych-Mental Nurse Practitioner who is very passionate about mental health care. She provides non-judgmental, unrushed care to her patients and their families. 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 and other states. MCP team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and therapist offers compassionate, non-judgmental, and evidenced-based psychiatric services.
Strategies for Success
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsychNP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85248 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatrist (MD) with a positive, caring and down to earth approach, I take a holistic view of your medication management experience. In addition to medications, I also believe in lifestyle changes, psychotherapy and wellness activities that contribute to your overall well being. My goal is by working together, we can work on helping you achieve the best quality of life you can have. I will listen, and take time to make sure you are heard. I will also take the time to make sure you understand my recommendations, and answer questions that you have about recommendations for any medications that I may make for you.
As a Psychiatrist (MD) with a positive, caring and down to earth approach, I take a holistic view of your medication management experience. In addition to medications, I also believe in lifestyle changes, psychotherapy and wellness activities that contribute to your overall well being. My goal is by working together, we can work on helping you achieve the best quality of life you can have. I will listen, and take time to make sure you are heard. I will also take the time to make sure you understand my recommendations, and answer questions that you have about recommendations for any medications that I may make for you.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/798e8e0d-2a8d-495a-9d77-2fe74e9aec10/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Dr. Samuel is the Head Clinician at Vitalis, and works alongside a Doctorate Level Board Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry. Dr. Samuel is Board Certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry and sees Children of all ages, as well as Adults who need Mental Health Services. Dr. Samuel is also Board Certified in Addiction Medicine; and treats patient with all types of Substance Use Disorders (including the use of Suboxone/Buprenorphine for Opiates). As a physician who is also Board Certified in Brain Injury (Traumatic & Non-Traumatic) Medicine, Dr. Samuel conducts TBI and PTSD Compensation Evaluations for Military Veterans.
Dr. Samuel is the Head Clinician at Vitalis, and works alongside a Doctorate Level Board Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry. Dr. Samuel is Board Certified in Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatry and sees Children of all ages, as well as Adults who need Mental Health Services. Dr. Samuel is also Board Certified in Addiction Medicine; and treats patient with all types of Substance Use Disorders (including the use of Suboxone/Buprenorphine for Opiates). As a physician who is also Board Certified in Brain Injury (Traumatic & Non-Traumatic) Medicine, Dr. Samuel conducts TBI and PTSD Compensation Evaluations for Military Veterans.
![Photo of Albert McNames, MSN-ED, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd4e4a5d-4b64-4450-8683-1952d491e327/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lauren Kiraly, PAC, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa8a7d72-f6df-4158-a9c5-35189bb6456a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren’s interest in mental health was ignited while listening to her grandfather’s stories about helping patients heal through reconstructive plastic surgery. She goes beyond learning about her patients’ health history to truly understand their feelings and concerns. Lauren is board-certified and helps children, adolescents, and adults.
Lauren’s interest in mental health was ignited while listening to her grandfather’s stories about helping patients heal through reconstructive plastic surgery. She goes beyond learning about her patients’ health history to truly understand their feelings and concerns. Lauren is board-certified and helps children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Francisca Onyemize, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/374de409-72ec-49cd-928e-588574c92419/2/320x400.png)
Francisca Onyemize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
Do you struggle with depression, an inability to focus, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, or PTSD? Do you want to develop coping skills to reduce your symptoms & enhance your understanding and quality of life? Are you interested in medication to help you reduce your symptoms, improve your quality of life, as well as how to reduce some of the side effects of the medications? My responsibility is that you gain insight into understanding the underlying factors contributing to your issues, what you are experiencing, and how you want to learn the skills & coping strategies to help you deal with issues and emotions.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/596cabd7-51e8-44b3-ac6a-8406e200ef82/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
See more therapy options for Chandler
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | ADHD |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Aetna |
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Chandler, AZ see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Chandler?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.