Psychiatrists in Farmington, UT
![Photo of Adam Creer, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a34b9a0c-508f-45a9-b966-ead5a2786544/1/320x400.png)
Adam Creer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025
Adam Creer is a board-certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.. He has worked in the healthcare field since 2004. He has worked as a nurse aide, nurse, nurse educator and nurse practitioner. Adam’s experience working in healthcare has led him to become an advocate for individuals with mental health disorders. He believes that primary prevention begins with mental health. He is excited to work with individuals to improve their mental health and well-being.
Adam Creer is a board-certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.. He has worked in the healthcare field since 2004. He has worked as a nurse aide, nurse, nurse educator and nurse practitioner. Adam’s experience working in healthcare has led him to become an advocate for individuals with mental health disorders. He believes that primary prevention begins with mental health. He is excited to work with individuals to improve their mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Dr. Kara Applegate - Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6178dfcd-7569-4208-971a-df0658803f20/1/320x400.png)
Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy: Dedicated to Your Mental Well-being. At Clear Sky, we understand the profound impact of mental health on your overall quality of life. Our experienced team of therapists and psychiatrists is committed to providing practical and effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on evidence-based approaches, we offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whatever your mental health concerns, let us guide you towards a brighter tomorrow.
Clear Sky Psychiatry & Therapy: Dedicated to Your Mental Well-being. At Clear Sky, we understand the profound impact of mental health on your overall quality of life. Our experienced team of therapists and psychiatrists is committed to providing practical and effective treatments tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on evidence-based approaches, we offer a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whatever your mental health concerns, let us guide you towards a brighter tomorrow.
![Photo of Annette Ephroni, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fae6a0d3-e265-4301-ad3d-38aa2a293a93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Annette Ephroni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025 (Online Only)
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy as well as regular psychotherapy clients. I works with adults and couples in regular psychotherapy. I am trained as a Sexologist Diplomate.
From roots in Women's Studies University of Utah, 1996 and direct entry midwifery, I entered the field of psychiatry to extend my work with people in deeply formative processes. I studied at Yale School of Nursing (2005) with training at the Personality Disorder Institute At New York Presbyterian University. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric APRN practicing in Salt Lake City, Utah since 2007. I am available for medication management, ketamine assisted psychotherapy as well as regular psychotherapy clients. I works with adults and couples in regular psychotherapy. I am trained as a Sexologist Diplomate.
![Photo of Sarah T Porter, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b670d41-112e-46e0-bf77-6ce63e771a5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah T Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, UT 84025
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.
I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner providing collaborative and individualized treatments for adults. My private practice was named Ideal Mindset because the perfect perspective is unique for each individual. Most people are a combination of mindsets. Each type of mindset has it's own strengths and vulnerabilities. I am looking for patients who are motivated to find their authentic selves.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ben Saxey, PA-C, Psych, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bbcbc94-1121-4e22-a69b-2f64f2efa35d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Patients! I want a patient that wants to find an answer. Sometimes the answer requires changing our lifestyle which includes sleeping habits, diet and exercise. Sometimes the answer is with the right medication(s). Sometimes it is with trying something "new". If you are willing to make changes, then we can explore options at Numinus that might not be available at other clinics. If you want someone who will listen and navigate your mental health journey with you, then I am happy to help and hope to see you at our clinic.
Now Accepting New Patients! I want a patient that wants to find an answer. Sometimes the answer requires changing our lifestyle which includes sleeping habits, diet and exercise. Sometimes the answer is with the right medication(s). Sometimes it is with trying something "new". If you are willing to make changes, then we can explore options at Numinus that might not be available at other clinics. If you want someone who will listen and navigate your mental health journey with you, then I am happy to help and hope to see you at our clinic.
![Photo of Dustin C Jasmer, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef4b25d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I see children (4+) for Medication Management ADHD, Anger/Aggression, Anxiety, Autism, Depression, Bipolar, Aggression, behavioral issues and a variety of other issues as well. I also see Adults for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, PTSD, Hormone Replacement, Low Testosterone, Menopause, PCOS and Weight Loss.
I see children (4+) for Medication Management ADHD, Anger/Aggression, Anxiety, Autism, Depression, Bipolar, Aggression, behavioral issues and a variety of other issues as well. I also see Adults for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, PTSD, Hormone Replacement, Low Testosterone, Menopause, PCOS and Weight Loss.
![Photo of Garrett Jefferies, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e272db10-d228-47ea-ae9f-8cdd90427b59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Garrett Jefferies
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bountiful, UT 84010
I believe that success in mental health is ultimately achieved through sustainable lifestyle change and that medications and therapy are often necessary tools in that process. No matter where you feel that you are with your mental health right now, there are tools to help. I specialize in helping clients reach mental stability using all tools available and then adding coaching for sustainable lifestyle changes that will ultimately help ensure long-term mental health.
I believe that success in mental health is ultimately achieved through sustainable lifestyle change and that medications and therapy are often necessary tools in that process. No matter where you feel that you are with your mental health right now, there are tools to help. I specialize in helping clients reach mental stability using all tools available and then adding coaching for sustainable lifestyle changes that will ultimately help ensure long-term mental health.
![Photo of Marco Rudas-Garcia, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f10895db-2008-418c-ac1c-d33d46b9013f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and other mental health needs.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. I have also worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming care, online opioid addiction treatment with medication, and other mental health needs.
![Photo of Austin B Imus - Austin B Imus DO Mental Health, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44190831-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Austin B Imus DO Mental Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054 (Online Only)
I have been in practice for over 30+ years. I am skilled in treating refractory depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have had extra training on the medical side of illnesses and make sure your illness is not being caused by or contributed to by a medical condition. Please call my office phone mail number 801-923-8044 to leave a message. I am currently accepting patients on a limited basis. I am currently doing Telepsychiatry only. I will need a referral from your primary care provider if you're seeking treatment for ADHD.
I have been in practice for over 30+ years. I am skilled in treating refractory depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have had extra training on the medical side of illnesses and make sure your illness is not being caused by or contributed to by a medical condition. Please call my office phone mail number 801-923-8044 to leave a message. I am currently accepting patients on a limited basis. I am currently doing Telepsychiatry only. I will need a referral from your primary care provider if you're seeking treatment for ADHD.
![Photo of Anneliesa Allred - Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah, LLC, AGACNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bd01e4c-d140-45b0-8e1b-e90fe53312a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alliant Behavioral Health of Utah, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGACNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
Anna is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and also an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with a DNP from the University of Utah then went on to get her PMHNP post-Master’s certificate from Maryville University of St. Louis. She is board certified to treat all ages and part of her training was with our NP Beth Harrop for more than a year. Anna’s background is in critical care nursing and cardiology. She is excited to join our team and advocates a combined approach to treatment, including psychotherapy and medication.
Anna is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and also an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with a DNP from the University of Utah then went on to get her PMHNP post-Master’s certificate from Maryville University of St. Louis. She is board certified to treat all ages and part of her training was with our NP Beth Harrop for more than a year. Anna’s background is in critical care nursing and cardiology. She is excited to join our team and advocates a combined approach to treatment, including psychotherapy and medication.
![Photo of Regan Harwell, MA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2afc935-ece2-49bb-ab1b-d08605328bf0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Regan Harwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I was an elementary school teacher for 20 years, so I have extensive experience with children. I also have 8 years of inpatient psychiatric experience with adults,adolescents, and geriatric patients,so my experience is all-encompassing. I am also well versed in children with oppositional defiant disorder and DMDD amd have used Matthew's protocol with patients with these conditions.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I was an elementary school teacher for 20 years, so I have extensive experience with children. I also have 8 years of inpatient psychiatric experience with adults,adolescents, and geriatric patients,so my experience is all-encompassing. I am also well versed in children with oppositional defiant disorder and DMDD amd have used Matthew's protocol with patients with these conditions.
![Photo of Andrea Beckstrom, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/629ea49f-4694-4109-8e70-8bb0c166fa4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Beckstrom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kaysville, UT 84037
Everyone at some point in their life goes through difficult times. However, if you have been struggling with anxiety or mood issues for more than a few weeks or loved ones have noticed a change and feel you need help, you might benefit from an evaluation. I look at and consider the whole picture including the client's the mental health, physical health and social and environmental factors. I love people, understanding their story, learning who they are and their goal for the future. I have a passion for helping as many as possible from those who are looking for why they just don't feel right to those who are greatly suffering.
Everyone at some point in their life goes through difficult times. However, if you have been struggling with anxiety or mood issues for more than a few weeks or loved ones have noticed a change and feel you need help, you might benefit from an evaluation. I look at and consider the whole picture including the client's the mental health, physical health and social and environmental factors. I love people, understanding their story, learning who they are and their goal for the future. I have a passion for helping as many as possible from those who are looking for why they just don't feel right to those who are greatly suffering.
![Photo of Shawn Warren, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff8c2bef-d77a-43e7-8e24-81f7aa30b83a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I seek to provide a safe and comfortable environment where my patients can share their concerns and feel heard. Each individual has gone through their own personal life experience and I strive to listen in an effort to understand what treatment options are best for them. Everyone has their own goals and I want to be a resource to help them accomplish those goals.
I seek to provide a safe and comfortable environment where my patients can share their concerns and feel heard. Each individual has gone through their own personal life experience and I strive to listen in an effort to understand what treatment options are best for them. Everyone has their own goals and I want to be a resource to help them accomplish those goals.
![Photo of Adam Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be37ff39-1679-40ce-bdb4-9394a6b7b9a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
![Photo of Steinia Lewis, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e73ac5e-8fcb-4d50-a828-b3a8adb4d5d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steinia has 6 years of experience as a physician assistant in adult inpatient internal medicine. There, she gained wonderful experience diagnosing and treating a variety of serious medical conditions from all specialties and body systems, including psychiatry. Steinia has always had a passion for wellness, mindfulness and a holistic approach to mental health and therefore transitioned specialties to a mental health focus. She believes in the importance of combining medications and therapy with other evidence-based practices, including creating and maintaining healthy relationships, regular exercise, and improved sleep.
Steinia has 6 years of experience as a physician assistant in adult inpatient internal medicine. There, she gained wonderful experience diagnosing and treating a variety of serious medical conditions from all specialties and body systems, including psychiatry. Steinia has always had a passion for wellness, mindfulness and a holistic approach to mental health and therefore transitioned specialties to a mental health focus. She believes in the importance of combining medications and therapy with other evidence-based practices, including creating and maintaining healthy relationships, regular exercise, and improved sleep.
![Photo of Alana Jacobs-Davis, PhD, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99259628-e5b4-4343-b8f3-be56ac43d1c6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alana Jacobs-Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Centerville, UT 84014 (Online Only)
Upon graduating from the University of Kansas and Wichita State University with a Masters in Nursing in December 1992, I embarked on a fulfilling journey dedicated to mental health care. Joining the outpatient mental health team at the wonderful George Whalen Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, I had the privilege of providing medication management and various individual and group psychotherapies for 26 years. In May 2006, earning my Doctorate from the College of Nursing at the University of Utah was a significant milestone that deepened my commitment to serving others.
Upon graduating from the University of Kansas and Wichita State University with a Masters in Nursing in December 1992, I embarked on a fulfilling journey dedicated to mental health care. Joining the outpatient mental health team at the wonderful George Whalen Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, I had the privilege of providing medication management and various individual and group psychotherapies for 26 years. In May 2006, earning my Doctorate from the College of Nursing at the University of Utah was a significant milestone that deepened my commitment to serving others.
![Photo of Chelsea Bauer, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9811c19-dd0e-4baa-8bf1-6ec2668f23a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
My philosophy is that it’s okay to ask for help. The bar needs to be lowered on the stigma for mental health. Life can be hard, and everyone needs some help at times. I want to encourage people to not be afraid or ashamed to reach out for help, and to be open and honest with their treatment team. I am here to help anyone who is ready. I believe in getting to know people, finding out their individual story, their needs, and creating a treatment and medication plan together.
My philosophy is that it’s okay to ask for help. The bar needs to be lowered on the stigma for mental health. Life can be hard, and everyone needs some help at times. I want to encourage people to not be afraid or ashamed to reach out for help, and to be open and honest with their treatment team. I am here to help anyone who is ready. I believe in getting to know people, finding out their individual story, their needs, and creating a treatment and medication plan together.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b32f20d1-3ecb-42bd-bb3e-8fc784836ba7/1/320x400.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 Brett Sharp, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fc548ce-43e3-4594-87e7-4018be2040ee/2/320x400.png)
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Brett Sharp is a triple board-certified (pediatrics, child psychiatry and adult psychiatry) physician with experience treating adults, children and adolescents. He has extensive experience in treating all aspects of medical, behavioral and developmental problems in children and adolescents. He also has extensive experience in both outpatient and inpatient adult psychiatry.
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Brett Sharp is a triple board-certified (pediatrics, child psychiatry and adult psychiatry) physician with experience treating adults, children and adolescents. He has extensive experience in treating all aspects of medical, behavioral and developmental problems in children and adolescents. He also has extensive experience in both outpatient and inpatient adult psychiatry.
![Photo of Anneliesa Allred, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9682a48-9954-41b1-bdaf-a8278fd63d28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anneliesa Allred
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Woods Cross, UT 84087 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Anna, I've been practicing psychiatry for 4 1/2 years and I love it! I am a nurse practitioner with training in both psychiatry and acute care. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, my dog and traveling. I look forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Anna, I've been practicing psychiatry for 4 1/2 years and I love it! I am a nurse practitioner with training in both psychiatry and acute care. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, my dog and traveling. I look forward to meeting you!
See more therapy options for Farmington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Farmington, UT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Farmington, UT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
50% | Other |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Regence |
100% | SelectHealth |
100% | University of Utah Health Plans |
How Psychiatrists in Farmington, UT see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Farmington?
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.