Psychiatrists in Cedar City, UT
![Photo of Integrated Psych - Integrated Psych Cedar City, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6757e92-6959-4c2d-83af-07e12965923f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Psych specializes in childhood and adult mental health disorders. Services include psychiatric and psychological evaluations, medication management, genetic testing for medication optimization, neurofeedback, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and telemedicine services for remote access to a psychiatric provider. Integrated Psych uses the integrative approach to treatment of mental health disorders and collaborates with other mental health professionals and service providers for the best possible treatment and outcomes.
Integrated Psych specializes in childhood and adult mental health disorders. Services include psychiatric and psychological evaluations, medication management, genetic testing for medication optimization, neurofeedback, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and telemedicine services for remote access to a psychiatric provider. Integrated Psych uses the integrative approach to treatment of mental health disorders and collaborates with other mental health professionals and service providers for the best possible treatment and outcomes.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e5de9b2-a9b7-4764-b871-a5fd24fa7cc6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b20f46f-ba6d-4d7b-85d6-f875d7e2c434/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Taylor Beatty, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17dab1ad-bcd7-4f1d-8f46-c92016ab5e8d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Beatty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Cedar City, UT 84721
Life can be complicated and it only seems to be getting more so. Often when out hiking we come across multiple paths that lead to the same point. Each path is different in length and difficulty. This is how life is for us. Our paths are individual but we are all looking for the same point of happiness. My goal is to help you along this path and move some boulders out of your way to make it easier for you to find that happiness. I like to take a full look at the patient and decide what is the best way to help you on that path. I utilize multiple tools to help with this including supplements, Amino Acids, and medications when needed.
Life can be complicated and it only seems to be getting more so. Often when out hiking we come across multiple paths that lead to the same point. Each path is different in length and difficulty. This is how life is for us. Our paths are individual but we are all looking for the same point of happiness. My goal is to help you along this path and move some boulders out of your way to make it easier for you to find that happiness. I like to take a full look at the patient and decide what is the best way to help you on that path. I utilize multiple tools to help with this including supplements, Amino Acids, and medications when needed.
![Photo of Ronda A Merrell - Harmony Psychiatry, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d05512c-7007-4b4b-b99c-b88dd4430cd7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Harmony Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Cedar City, UT 84720
I believe that the best healing comes as a result of emotional resiliency, appropriate psychopharmacology and compassionate care. Having worked as a L&D nurse for 14 years I have an extensive knowledge of women's health issues during and after pregnancy. I also worked with the severely mentally ill population for several years where I became skilled in treating and understanding bipolar, schizophrenia and personality disorders. I would love to have the opportunity to help you. I can diagnose and treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD and many other mental health struggles that you or your loved one may have.
I believe that the best healing comes as a result of emotional resiliency, appropriate psychopharmacology and compassionate care. Having worked as a L&D nurse for 14 years I have an extensive knowledge of women's health issues during and after pregnancy. I also worked with the severely mentally ill population for several years where I became skilled in treating and understanding bipolar, schizophrenia and personality disorders. I would love to have the opportunity to help you. I can diagnose and treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD and many other mental health struggles that you or your loved one may have.
![Photo of Merle Lawter - Red Sands Psychiatry, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/875a6786-98c3-42cb-84ed-edc7bf259359/1/320x400.jpeg)
Red Sands Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Cedar City, UT 84721
Red Sands Psychiatry believes a healthy life full of joy is attainable for all, and we are eager to help our patients find that life. We strive to create a compassionate environment where we take time to get to know our patients, to understand their lives and how their diagnoses impact them and their loved ones. We believe in supporting our patients in their lifestyles and creating an atmosphere of acceptance and community. A team approach and collaborative care is necessary. We engage with our patients, their support team and additional healthcare providers to create holistic, research based, cost-effective, treatment plans.
Red Sands Psychiatry believes a healthy life full of joy is attainable for all, and we are eager to help our patients find that life. We strive to create a compassionate environment where we take time to get to know our patients, to understand their lives and how their diagnoses impact them and their loved ones. We believe in supporting our patients in their lifestyles and creating an atmosphere of acceptance and community. A team approach and collaborative care is necessary. We engage with our patients, their support team and additional healthcare providers to create holistic, research based, cost-effective, treatment plans.
![Photo of Satu H Woodland - Hope Mental Health, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ac7fab2-0064-40bf-82d9-3375351886e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Cedar City, UT 84721
Hello! We are a mental health clinic providing psych evals, med management and psychotherapy. I am the Clinic owner and Clinician. When you schedule with me, you will be signing up for a team. Currently, there are 3 interns that work with me. An intern will take your medical history and psychiatric history, then I will come on and the intern and I will create the treatment plan. On subsequent visits, you will see the intern and he/she will bring me on when the medication and/or treatment plan needs to be changed. All of us provide Integrative Psychiatry using the most recent medications and supplements.
Hello! We are a mental health clinic providing psych evals, med management and psychotherapy. I am the Clinic owner and Clinician. When you schedule with me, you will be signing up for a team. Currently, there are 3 interns that work with me. An intern will take your medical history and psychiatric history, then I will come on and the intern and I will create the treatment plan. On subsequent visits, you will see the intern and he/she will bring me on when the medication and/or treatment plan needs to be changed. All of us provide Integrative Psychiatry using the most recent medications and supplements.
![Photo of Lori Jardine, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc4ce02f-d211-469d-b768-a1eab049e299/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Jardine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cedar City, UT 84720
My life's journey is to inspire others to live their best lives by reaching their greatest potential. I find strength in doing hard things and am driven to accomplish any goal. My most important contribution to the people in my life will be to teach them how to accomplish their dreams no matter how impossible they may seem. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner, it is my goal to help those who struggle with mental health to be able to live their best lives as soon as possible.
My life's journey is to inspire others to live their best lives by reaching their greatest potential. I find strength in doing hard things and am driven to accomplish any goal. My most important contribution to the people in my life will be to teach them how to accomplish their dreams no matter how impossible they may seem. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner, it is my goal to help those who struggle with mental health to be able to live their best lives as soon as possible.
![Photo of John Hendleman, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4b535de-e3eb-4060-912b-00c4c569bb8e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? Ready to reclaim your life experience the joy you deserve? Medications and therapy are an essential component of treatment to assist in achieving Better Balance in your day-to-day living to those suffering with mental illness. In addition to traditional antidepressants, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato are both FDA approved modalities covered by most insurances for treatment resistant depression and are both available at my clinic! Give me a call to see how I can help you on your journey to achieving Better Balance. Visit us today at www.betterbalancepsychiatry.com
Sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? Ready to reclaim your life experience the joy you deserve? Medications and therapy are an essential component of treatment to assist in achieving Better Balance in your day-to-day living to those suffering with mental illness. In addition to traditional antidepressants, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato are both FDA approved modalities covered by most insurances for treatment resistant depression and are both available at my clinic! Give me a call to see how I can help you on your journey to achieving Better Balance. Visit us today at www.betterbalancepsychiatry.com
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Janel Irene Hillstrom, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aabce2c7-0e43-4623-8a92-f77e1d4ce633/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Janel Irene Hillstrom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint George, UT 84790
Life can be very challenging and coping with mental illness is not easy. I can help by providing medication management for conditions such anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-partum mental illness and more. We will work together to find the best treatment. We will talk together, review past medications or lack of treatment, and decide on a plan together to meet your individual health needs.
Life can be very challenging and coping with mental illness is not easy. I can help by providing medication management for conditions such anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-partum mental illness and more. We will work together to find the best treatment. We will talk together, review past medications or lack of treatment, and decide on a plan together to meet your individual health needs.
![Photo of Integrated Psych - Integrated Psych, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/384d8832-0882-4dfa-83f8-34220b1c5bb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Psych, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint George, UT 84770
Integrated Psych specializes in childhood and adult mental health disorders. Services include psychiatric and psychological evaluations, medication management, genetic testing for medication optimization, neurofeedback, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and telemedicine services for remote access to a psychiatric provider. Integrated Psych uses the integrative approach to treatment of mental health disorders and collaborates with other mental health professionals and service providers for the best possible treatment and outcomes.
Integrated Psych specializes in childhood and adult mental health disorders. Services include psychiatric and psychological evaluations, medication management, genetic testing for medication optimization, neurofeedback, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and telemedicine services for remote access to a psychiatric provider. Integrated Psych uses the integrative approach to treatment of mental health disorders and collaborates with other mental health professionals and service providers for the best possible treatment and outcomes.
![Photo of Daniel Sly, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0604542-a7d5-4044-be1a-4b09880d9dfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Sly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint George, UT 84790 (Online Only)
I am a bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner and the owner of Connections Nursing Psychiatry, PLLC. I have worked in psychiatry since 2018 in most levels of psychiatric care, including inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, outpatient, and telehealth. In these settings, I have experience working with both adults and adolescents. Having spent thousands of hours in the acute hospital setting, I have seen and treated many acute and complex cases across the spectrum of mental illlness, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and neurodivergence. I speak Spanish and have prior experience as a Spanish medical interpreter
I am a bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner and the owner of Connections Nursing Psychiatry, PLLC. I have worked in psychiatry since 2018 in most levels of psychiatric care, including inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, outpatient, and telehealth. In these settings, I have experience working with both adults and adolescents. Having spent thousands of hours in the acute hospital setting, I have seen and treated many acute and complex cases across the spectrum of mental illlness, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and neurodivergence. I speak Spanish and have prior experience as a Spanish medical interpreter
![Photo of Dr. Jeremy Larson, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b312482c-5a42-4a8f-9e9f-6895a0bb6178/2/320x400.jpeg)
Born and raised here in St. George, being a psychiatrist never crossed my radar until my first rotation in medical school. I enjoyed the interpersonal relationships that develop with patients compared to all other physician specialties and the gratification that comes with being able to play a small part in helping someone overcome mental illness and feel better about themselves. I then decided to become a psychiatrist and completed a 4 year psychiatry residency in Pennsylvania.
Born and raised here in St. George, being a psychiatrist never crossed my radar until my first rotation in medical school. I enjoyed the interpersonal relationships that develop with patients compared to all other physician specialties and the gratification that comes with being able to play a small part in helping someone overcome mental illness and feel better about themselves. I then decided to become a psychiatrist and completed a 4 year psychiatry residency in Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Paige Marshall - Red Sands Psychiatry, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/543bf9c4-fa50-47cc-8bb7-3480a1137810/1/320x400.png)
Red Sands Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Saint George, UT 84770
Red Sands Psychiatry believes a healthy life full of joy is attainable for all, and we are eager to help our patients find that life. We strive to create a compassionate environment where we take time to get to know our patients, to understand their lives and how their diagnoses impact them and their loved ones. We believe in supporting our patients in their lifestyles and creating an atmosphere of acceptance and community. A team approach and collaborative care is necessary. We engage with our patients, their support team and additional healthcare providers to create holistic, research based, cost-effective, treatment plans.
Red Sands Psychiatry believes a healthy life full of joy is attainable for all, and we are eager to help our patients find that life. We strive to create a compassionate environment where we take time to get to know our patients, to understand their lives and how their diagnoses impact them and their loved ones. We believe in supporting our patients in their lifestyles and creating an atmosphere of acceptance and community. A team approach and collaborative care is necessary. We engage with our patients, their support team and additional healthcare providers to create holistic, research based, cost-effective, treatment plans.
![Photo of Diane Richardson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6dddd6b-ad58-4140-ad5c-f1260149bc40/2/320x400.png)
Diane Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint George, UT 84790 (Online Only)
I believe that mental and physical health are connected, and I have a passion for educating my clients to recognize potential biological issues that may be limiting their ability to manage their moods, behaviors, and/or motivation for success. I am a certified integrative mental health professional and provide services beyond medication management for those who express interest, including pharmacogenetic testing, neurotoxicity evaluations, specific condition testing, supplement and dietary recommendations, and education/referrals for additional supportive therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen treatment, etc.
I believe that mental and physical health are connected, and I have a passion for educating my clients to recognize potential biological issues that may be limiting their ability to manage their moods, behaviors, and/or motivation for success. I am a certified integrative mental health professional and provide services beyond medication management for those who express interest, including pharmacogenetic testing, neurotoxicity evaluations, specific condition testing, supplement and dietary recommendations, and education/referrals for additional supportive therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen treatment, etc.
![Photo of Sunie Thomas, PMHNP, IBCLC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9428db68-96a8-4bc1-bf11-e1fed0664bc3/5/320x400.jpeg)
Sunie Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, IBCLC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Saint George, UT 84770
I specialize in a broad spectrum of mental health issues such as pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders, disordered eating/eating disorders, sexual dysfunction/desire, faith/life transitions, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/birth trauma, infertility, OCD, ADHD, and more. As a Lactation Consultant & previous postpartum nurse, I feel confident prescribing medication to pregnant & breastfeeding women. I do both talk therapy and medication management, I most insurance plans and Medicare
I specialize in a broad spectrum of mental health issues such as pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders, disordered eating/eating disorders, sexual dysfunction/desire, faith/life transitions, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/birth trauma, infertility, OCD, ADHD, and more. As a Lactation Consultant & previous postpartum nurse, I feel confident prescribing medication to pregnant & breastfeeding women. I do both talk therapy and medication management, I most insurance plans and Medicare
![Photo of McCall McMorris, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba797611-7b4e-417b-b846-ceb02b62989c/2/320x400.jpeg)
McCall McMorris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Saint George, UT 84790 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! As a PMHNP I strive to help my patients feel heard & seen in an often dark and confusing mindset that can make them feel lost, misunderstood, and hopeless. To create a healthy therapeutic alliance between my patients and I is of utmost importance to me & aids in providing mental health relief. Being someone who personally struggles with bipolar I disorder, depression, ADHD, and anxiety, I can relate to my patients on a deeper level and provide optimal understanding. Through maintaining the therapeutic alliance & providing insight I aim to provide excellent mental health care to all of my patients.
Accepting new patients! As a PMHNP I strive to help my patients feel heard & seen in an often dark and confusing mindset that can make them feel lost, misunderstood, and hopeless. To create a healthy therapeutic alliance between my patients and I is of utmost importance to me & aids in providing mental health relief. Being someone who personally struggles with bipolar I disorder, depression, ADHD, and anxiety, I can relate to my patients on a deeper level and provide optimal understanding. Through maintaining the therapeutic alliance & providing insight I aim to provide excellent mental health care to all of my patients.
![Photo of Alberto W Souza, MSN, APRN, FNP-c, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/097ee3eb-6134-4991-9082-2ac49464d78f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alberto W Souza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-c, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint George, UT 84770
Alberto has been working as a Nurse Practitioner since April of 2013 and has a Master’s Degree in Family Practice and a Post Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health. He has worked in health care for over 14 years and now specializes in helping people with Mental Health Disorders and Substance Addiction. His genuine love for people and desire to continue to learn and improve has allowed him to experience a great deal of success as a provider, to establish a good rapport with patients and to develop lasting relationships with medical professionals in the So. Utah area. Alberto is also fluent in English, Portuguese & Spanish.
Alberto has been working as a Nurse Practitioner since April of 2013 and has a Master’s Degree in Family Practice and a Post Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health. He has worked in health care for over 14 years and now specializes in helping people with Mental Health Disorders and Substance Addiction. His genuine love for people and desire to continue to learn and improve has allowed him to experience a great deal of success as a provider, to establish a good rapport with patients and to develop lasting relationships with medical professionals in the So. Utah area. Alberto is also fluent in English, Portuguese & Spanish.
![Photo of Jalayne Telford, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e2b622a-42e7-4ef1-8519-92863d5b0891/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jalayne Telford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint George, UT 84770 (Online Only)
See more therapy options for Cedar City
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cedar City, UT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Cedar City, UT who prioritize treating:
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Medication Management |
89% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Depression |
78% | Anxiety |
78% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Regence |
100% | SelectHealth |
100% | Deseret Mutual Benefit Advisers |
How Psychiatrists in Cedar City, UT see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cedar City?
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.