Psychiatrists in Lindon, UT

Photo of Rebecca Harvey - Cornerstone Psychiatry,        Rebecca Harvey, DNP, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cornerstone Psychiatry, Rebecca Harvey, DNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lindon, UT 84042
Cornerstone Psychiatry is a premier psychiatry practice serving individuals aged 12 years and older, led by Rebecca Harvey, DNP, who has decades of combined experience. Patients receive tailored medication management for ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and more. Offering in-person appointments and telemedicine psychiatry, Rebecca provides comprehensive assessments and personalized treatment. Patients get individualized attention and have a safe place to express their concerns.
Cornerstone Psychiatry is a premier psychiatry practice serving individuals aged 12 years and older, led by Rebecca Harvey, DNP, who has decades of combined experience. Patients receive tailored medication management for ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and more. Offering in-person appointments and telemedicine psychiatry, Rebecca provides comprehensive assessments and personalized treatment. Patients get individualized attention and have a safe place to express their concerns.
(385) 557-8950 View (385) 557-8950
Photo of Angeleah Roberts, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angeleah Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lindon, UT 84042
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking more of a holistic approach and incorporating mind, body, and spirit during the healing process. I treat many different conditions with the end goal of helping those who are struggling in life. I have found ketamine, especially when combined with therapy to be an amazing tool in helping those find the relief they deserve.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in taking more of a holistic approach and incorporating mind, body, and spirit during the healing process. I treat many different conditions with the end goal of helping those who are struggling in life. I have found ketamine, especially when combined with therapy to be an amazing tool in helping those find the relief they deserve.
(801) 618-4987 View (801) 618-4987
Photo of Samuel Everett, PA-C, MPH , Physician Assistant
Samuel Everett
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
Verified Verified
Lindon, UT 84042
Samuel currently provides care through Numinus Wellness Utah at the Murray location! Sam graduated Cum Lade from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science Exercise Science degree, and a Master in Public Health degree. Samuel received a Master of Science, Physician Assistant Studies degree from the Pacific University College of Health Professions in Hillsboro Oregon. Samuel currently provides care at Numinus Wellness Utah at the Murray location!
Samuel currently provides care through Numinus Wellness Utah at the Murray location! Sam graduated Cum Lade from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science Exercise Science degree, and a Master in Public Health degree. Samuel received a Master of Science, Physician Assistant Studies degree from the Pacific University College of Health Professions in Hillsboro Oregon. Samuel currently provides care at Numinus Wellness Utah at the Murray location!
(385) 323-8468 View (385) 323-8468

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Bruno Silva - Healing Ketamine, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing Ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
Welcome! We're glad you're exploring ketamine infusions, a cutting-edge option in the realm of mental health treatments. This therapy has shown promise in providing relief for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, offering hope and healing. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your comfort and safety. We're committed to personalized care, tailoring each treatment to the individual's unique needs and health goals. Together, we'll work towards a brighter, healthier future for you.
Welcome! We're glad you're exploring ketamine infusions, a cutting-edge option in the realm of mental health treatments. This therapy has shown promise in providing relief for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, offering hope and healing. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your comfort and safety. We're committed to personalized care, tailoring each treatment to the individual's unique needs and health goals. Together, we'll work towards a brighter, healthier future for you.
(385) 526-2109 View (385) 526-2109
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
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.
View
Photo of Dr. Britney Palombo, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Britney Palombo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
Dr. Palombo is skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, as well as individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She uses a collaborative approach to treatment, exploring the psychological, biological, behavioral, and social factors contributing to each individuals circumstance. She specializes in children and adolescents but has been managing outpatient psychiatric care for all ages as well as providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation since 2017. She has had extensive training in TMS and utilizes cutting edge evidence-based research to provide not only effective but personalized treatment options.
Dr. Palombo is skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, as well as individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She uses a collaborative approach to treatment, exploring the psychological, biological, behavioral, and social factors contributing to each individuals circumstance. She specializes in children and adolescents but has been managing outpatient psychiatric care for all ages as well as providing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation since 2017. She has had extensive training in TMS and utilizes cutting edge evidence-based research to provide not only effective but personalized treatment options.
(801) 905-8428 View (801) 905-8428
Photo of Brian C Nyberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Brian C Nyberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84097  (Online Only)
Virtual Consultation. I am committed to providing you with the highest quality of care. Platform: We will be conducting the appointment via Google Meet. You'll need a stable internet connection and access to a computer or mobile device with a webcam and microphone. If you haven't used Google Meet before, please try it out in advance. If you encounter any technical difficulties, please reach out to me for assistance. Privacy and Confidentiality: Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance. The confidentiality of our session depends on the the security of your internet connection and the privacy of your surroundings.
Virtual Consultation. I am committed to providing you with the highest quality of care. Platform: We will be conducting the appointment via Google Meet. You'll need a stable internet connection and access to a computer or mobile device with a webcam and microphone. If you haven't used Google Meet before, please try it out in advance. If you encounter any technical difficulties, please reach out to me for assistance. Privacy and Confidentiality: Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance. The confidentiality of our session depends on the the security of your internet connection and the privacy of your surroundings.
(623) 624-5128 View (623) 624-5128
Photo of Regan Haight, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Regan Haight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
Accepting New Clients! I bring a deep understanding of the gut-brain connection, genetics, diet, nutrition, stress, trauma, and various lifestyle and environmental factors that impact mental health. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to help you achieve lasting healing by addressing the root causes of mental illness and improving your quality of life. With 13 years of experience in medication management, I am well-versed in prescribing medications when necessary. However, I believe in a comprehensive approach that goes beyond conventional treatments.
Accepting New Clients! I bring a deep understanding of the gut-brain connection, genetics, diet, nutrition, stress, trauma, and various lifestyle and environmental factors that impact mental health. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to help you achieve lasting healing by addressing the root causes of mental illness and improving your quality of life. With 13 years of experience in medication management, I am well-versed in prescribing medications when necessary. However, I believe in a comprehensive approach that goes beyond conventional treatments.
(385) 600-5341 View (385) 600-5341
Photo of Dave Lindsay, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dave Lindsay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that may include ketamine treatments, medication management and therapy. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat a number of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that may include ketamine treatments, medication management and therapy. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat a number of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorders.
(801) 785-2028 View (801) 785-2028
Photo of Dr. Thomas Rayner - Whole Mind, MD, Psychiatrist
Whole Mind
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Whole Mind is an outpatient mental health clinic focused on providing compassionate psychiatric care for mental, emotional and behavioral disorders for individuals aged 13 and above. We use state-of-the-art treatments directed and overseen by our board-certified psychiatrist, focused on improving all aspects that make up mental health including biology, psychology and lifestyle. Our passion is to help patients build a mind that is strong, resilient and WHOLE.
Whole Mind is an outpatient mental health clinic focused on providing compassionate psychiatric care for mental, emotional and behavioral disorders for individuals aged 13 and above. We use state-of-the-art treatments directed and overseen by our board-certified psychiatrist, focused on improving all aspects that make up mental health including biology, psychology and lifestyle. Our passion is to help patients build a mind that is strong, resilient and WHOLE.
(385) 503-3640 View (385) 503-3640
Photo of Hannah Banks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Banks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Hannah enjoys listening to her patients’ needs and coming up with creative, patient-centered care that is tailored to her patient using diverse treatment modalities such as medication management, therapy, lifestyle, and psychedelic therapies. Hannah loves to empower her patients and help them make decisions that will improve overall mental health and give them the tools necessary to do so.
Hannah enjoys listening to her patients’ needs and coming up with creative, patient-centered care that is tailored to her patient using diverse treatment modalities such as medication management, therapy, lifestyle, and psychedelic therapies. Hannah loves to empower her patients and help them make decisions that will improve overall mental health and give them the tools necessary to do so.
(385) 503-8619 View (385) 503-8619
Photo of Irina Campbell, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Irina Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Irina offers a comprehensive approach to mental wellness as a holistic provider dedicated to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Incorporating both natural and western methods, Irina believes in treating the whole person, addressing not just symptoms but also underlying issues. Addressing the root causes of generational and childhood trauma as well as supporting the body leads to lasting positive mental health change. Treating individuals across all life stages with a diverse interest in existential and humanistic therapies. Irina has experience in CBT, DBT, EMDR, Gestalt therapies, marriage counseling, etc.
Irina offers a comprehensive approach to mental wellness as a holistic provider dedicated to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Incorporating both natural and western methods, Irina believes in treating the whole person, addressing not just symptoms but also underlying issues. Addressing the root causes of generational and childhood trauma as well as supporting the body leads to lasting positive mental health change. Treating individuals across all life stages with a diverse interest in existential and humanistic therapies. Irina has experience in CBT, DBT, EMDR, Gestalt therapies, marriage counseling, etc.
(385) 406-3523 View (385) 406-3523
Photo of Karl Tucker, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karl Tucker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
Open and seeing patients. No Wait! We take most commercial insurances. Karl Tucker believes that good mental health requires a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of life, including exercise programs, mindfulness and meditation, social relationship improvement, nutrition, and sleep regimes.
Open and seeing patients. No Wait! We take most commercial insurances. Karl Tucker believes that good mental health requires a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of life, including exercise programs, mindfulness and meditation, social relationship improvement, nutrition, and sleep regimes.
(801) 609-2448 View (801) 609-2448
Photo of Catherine Collins - White Sage Wellness, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
White Sage Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Not accepting new clients
My name is Catherine Collins. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a broad range of training and experience. I have treated adolescent and adult patients in multiple practice settings including hospitals, inpatient medical detox and outpatient medication management. Acknowledging the strong connection between mind, body and spirit, I focus on providing evidence-based care that nurtures wholeness and healing.
My name is Catherine Collins. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a broad range of training and experience. I have treated adolescent and adult patients in multiple practice settings including hospitals, inpatient medical detox and outpatient medication management. Acknowledging the strong connection between mind, body and spirit, I focus on providing evidence-based care that nurtures wholeness and healing.
(385) 323-8559 View (385) 323-8559
Photo of Aimee Cooper Hopkin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aimee Cooper Hopkin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
I am an experienced healthcare professional with a deep passion for mental health, driven by both personal experiences and those of my loved ones. My focus is on providing compassionate, holistic care to women facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, perinatal mood disorders, PMDD and more.
I am an experienced healthcare professional with a deep passion for mental health, driven by both personal experiences and those of my loved ones. My focus is on providing compassionate, holistic care to women facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, perinatal mood disorders, PMDD and more.
(385) 526-5381 View (385) 526-5381
Photo of Alex Mageno, MD, Psychiatrist
Alex Mageno
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
I am a holistic and root-cause oriented psychiatrist, comfortable working with all ages and stages of life with additional specialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry, nutritional psychiatry, and integrative psychiatry. I trained at various locations including University of California, Riverside and Stanford University and am board certified in general psychiatry. I am a medical director with Whole Mind, a psychiatric clinic in Utah. We provide state-of-the-art treatments such as Spravato and Transcranial magnetic Stimulation (TMS), as well as medication management, therapy, and coaching.
I am a holistic and root-cause oriented psychiatrist, comfortable working with all ages and stages of life with additional specialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry, nutritional psychiatry, and integrative psychiatry. I trained at various locations including University of California, Riverside and Stanford University and am board certified in general psychiatry. I am a medical director with Whole Mind, a psychiatric clinic in Utah. We provide state-of-the-art treatments such as Spravato and Transcranial magnetic Stimulation (TMS), as well as medication management, therapy, and coaching.
(385) 503-3640 View (385) 503-3640
Photo of Michelle Rawls, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Rawls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Do you find yourself stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief? Do you find it challenging to remember what it’s like to be happy and live a fulfilling life? Symptoms of mental health conditions can over shadow positive experiences, making it difficult to recall or imagine a time when you felt well, often leading to hopelessness and the belief that recovery is unattainable. However, with appropriate support and treatment, many people can rediscover joy and achieve a satisfying life.
Do you find yourself stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief? Do you find it challenging to remember what it’s like to be happy and live a fulfilling life? Symptoms of mental health conditions can over shadow positive experiences, making it difficult to recall or imagine a time when you felt well, often leading to hopelessness and the belief that recovery is unattainable. However, with appropriate support and treatment, many people can rediscover joy and achieve a satisfying life.
(385) 438-4029 View (385) 438-4029
Photo of Adam Ellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
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. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! 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. If interested in group therapy for insomnia sign up now! While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
(206) 312-7679 View (206) 312-7679
Photo of Melissa Hoyt, PA, Physician Assistant
Melissa Hoyt
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
I was born and raised in Utah. Before becoming a Physician Associate (PA), I was a medical assistant for over 10 years in various settings. During this time, I found mental health integral in every type of practice and desired to provide this care to everyone seeking it. I then went on to obtain my Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) in Provo and am currently working towards my Doctorate of Medical Sciences (DMSc) at RMUoHP where I am increasing my skills in Mental Health diagnosis and management as well as various therapeutic skills.
I was born and raised in Utah. Before becoming a Physician Associate (PA), I was a medical assistant for over 10 years in various settings. During this time, I found mental health integral in every type of practice and desired to provide this care to everyone seeking it. I then went on to obtain my Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) in Provo and am currently working towards my Doctorate of Medical Sciences (DMSc) at RMUoHP where I am increasing my skills in Mental Health diagnosis and management as well as various therapeutic skills.
(801) 609-2448 View (801) 609-2448
Jill Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Welcome! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to each of my patients. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be a daunting step, and I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel heard and understood. I believe in the importance of building a trusting therapeutic relationship, and I am here to support you at your own pace and help you on your journey toward healing and growth.
Welcome! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to each of my patients. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be a daunting step, and I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel heard and understood. I believe in the importance of building a trusting therapeutic relationship, and I am here to support you at your own pace and help you on your journey toward healing and growth.

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lindon, UT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Lindon, UT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Autism
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Lindon, UT see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lindon?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.