Psychiatrists in Riverton, UT
![Photo of Christopher Moore, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a151496-5fbb-47fd-9f28-95a93e110ebe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Moore is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2024. He earned his Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University. Christopher believes true healing starts with relationships and communication. He strives to alleviate his patients’ suffering by tailoring a care plan that meets their individual needs. Christopher will listen to you and together you can feel empowered to take back your life and do what you want to do. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys running, eating out at restaurants, traveling, and spending time with his wife and children.
Christopher Moore is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2024. He earned his Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University. Christopher believes true healing starts with relationships and communication. He strives to alleviate his patients’ suffering by tailoring a care plan that meets their individual needs. Christopher will listen to you and together you can feel empowered to take back your life and do what you want to do. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys running, eating out at restaurants, traveling, and spending time with his wife and children.
![Photo of Heather Dangerfield, DNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4000fd92-3da0-485d-bb47-7e789cd60390/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Dangerfield
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Riverton, UT 84096
Heather M. Dangerfield is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Utah and a Bachelor's of Nursing and Bachelor's in Psychology from Westminster College. As someone working in mental health for almost twenty years, Heather continues to have passion for treating each individual as just that, an individual with unique needs and perspectives who deserves tailored treatment instead of a one size fits all approach. Heather spends her free time spoiling her cat, reading, powerlifting, playing with Legos, and doing embroidery.
Heather M. Dangerfield is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Utah and a Bachelor's of Nursing and Bachelor's in Psychology from Westminster College. As someone working in mental health for almost twenty years, Heather continues to have passion for treating each individual as just that, an individual with unique needs and perspectives who deserves tailored treatment instead of a one size fits all approach. Heather spends her free time spoiling her cat, reading, powerlifting, playing with Legos, and doing embroidery.
![Photo of Shadrick Tillotson, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15d1f426-0fb3-474d-afea-506b9823cb7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shad Tillotson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2016. Shad matches treatment options to symptoms rather than diagnoses. Lifestyle conditions are also reviewed to ensure the best course for changes and better mental health balance. He offers clients a comprehensive background assessment for mental health diagnoses and treatments. Shad has experience with a wide range of ages down to 12 years old and offers treatments of most categories in psychiatry.
Shad Tillotson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2016. Shad matches treatment options to symptoms rather than diagnoses. Lifestyle conditions are also reviewed to ensure the best course for changes and better mental health balance. He offers clients a comprehensive background assessment for mental health diagnoses and treatments. Shad has experience with a wide range of ages down to 12 years old and offers treatments of most categories in psychiatry.
![Photo of Matthew Soulier, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09f8d1b8-9f5c-4a0a-a0ae-cccc6dc57cc7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Soulier has practiced psychiatry since 2008 in a variety of clinical and scholarly settings. He was a faculty member and the Child Psychiatry Training Director at UC Davis School of Medicine for 10 years. As a child and adolescent psychiatrist and forensic psychiatrist, Dr. Soulier is passionate about the care and treatment of children, in both the clinical and court setting. His wealth of knowledge in the field of forensic psychiatry has been utilized in juvenile, family, and adult criminal courts, where he has been called to testify as an expert witness.
Dr. Soulier has practiced psychiatry since 2008 in a variety of clinical and scholarly settings. He was a faculty member and the Child Psychiatry Training Director at UC Davis School of Medicine for 10 years. As a child and adolescent psychiatrist and forensic psychiatrist, Dr. Soulier is passionate about the care and treatment of children, in both the clinical and court setting. His wealth of knowledge in the field of forensic psychiatry has been utilized in juvenile, family, and adult criminal courts, where he has been called to testify as an expert witness.
![Photo of Sharee Hendricks, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/704f5278-2bb7-4a9f-bd6a-82cae3ebdf0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharee Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2024. She has an Associate degree from BYU-Idaho, a Bachelor’s in Nursing from Boise State University, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. Sharee wants to be able to assist clients in achieving mental wellness in whatever way that looks like for them with guidance that may include medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, or forming new healthy habits.
Sharee Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2024. She has an Associate degree from BYU-Idaho, a Bachelor’s in Nursing from Boise State University, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. Sharee wants to be able to assist clients in achieving mental wellness in whatever way that looks like for them with guidance that may include medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, or forming new healthy habits.
![Photo of Lin Clark, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a35e7bc8-14f3-4614-b41e-f8187f5bf8aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lin Clark is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner, who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2018 with a degree in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan. Lin sees patients ages 12+. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and ADHD. In her spare time, Lin enjoys delicious food, going on walks, and bathing her hairless pets.
Lin Clark is a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner, who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2018 with a degree in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan. Lin sees patients ages 12+. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and ADHD. In her spare time, Lin enjoys delicious food, going on walks, and bathing her hairless pets.
![Photo of Laura Maw, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8c399a1-e6d3-4768-83dc-57a280af655b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Maw is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and provides psychiatric medication management in by telehealth and at our Lehi Clinic in Thanksgiving Point. She has over 31 years of nursing experience with 22 years in psychiatric medication management. She earned a Doctorate in Nurse Practices (DNP) from the University of Utah specializing in Family Nurse Practice (FNP).
Laura Maw is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and provides psychiatric medication management in by telehealth and at our Lehi Clinic in Thanksgiving Point. She has over 31 years of nursing experience with 22 years in psychiatric medication management. She earned a Doctorate in Nurse Practices (DNP) from the University of Utah specializing in Family Nurse Practice (FNP).
![Photo of Gayle Scanlan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/586a74a8-f194-4e50-b760-81467e5aa649/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gayle Scanlan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2022. Gayle believes approaching patients from all walks of life with empathy and kindness in an open-minded way will allow them to achieve their mental health goals. She values therapeutic communication and has cared for numerous patients and families undergoing crises. Gayle approaches patients in an unbiased and nonjudgmental manner, caring for them with empathy. Outside of work, Gayle enjoys hiking, yoga, learning new things, and spending time with her family.
Gayle Scanlan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2022. Gayle believes approaching patients from all walks of life with empathy and kindness in an open-minded way will allow them to achieve their mental health goals. She values therapeutic communication and has cared for numerous patients and families undergoing crises. Gayle approaches patients in an unbiased and nonjudgmental manner, caring for them with empathy. Outside of work, Gayle enjoys hiking, yoga, learning new things, and spending time with her family.
![Photo of Stefanie Anderson, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa791de4-622e-44f4-b095-caf67f4d09e3/2/320x400.png)
Stefanie Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Riverton, UT 84065
Are you or a loved one experiencing mental health challenges and ready to get help ASAP? Are you considering starting or fine-tuning medications and supplements you already take? If so, please reach out to Stefanie at Integrative Family Psychiatry. She has immediate openings for medication management and therapy. She wants to help you navigate the challenges of mental health and wellness so you can live your best life. Stefanie is dual board certified in psychiatry and family medicine, so she uses an integrative approach by blending traditional, alternative, and holistic treatments to help provide the best possible outcomes.
Are you or a loved one experiencing mental health challenges and ready to get help ASAP? Are you considering starting or fine-tuning medications and supplements you already take? If so, please reach out to Stefanie at Integrative Family Psychiatry. She has immediate openings for medication management and therapy. She wants to help you navigate the challenges of mental health and wellness so you can live your best life. Stefanie is dual board certified in psychiatry and family medicine, so she uses an integrative approach by blending traditional, alternative, and holistic treatments to help provide the best possible outcomes.
![Photo of Annie Groesbeck, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d339bc0-55d0-4c8a-b873-24d4b2cd9a43/2/320x400.jpeg)
Annie Groesbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverton, UT 84096
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in mental healthcare. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals and families, believing that informed patients achieve better health outcomes. During visits with me, patients can expect open communication to discuss their unique concerns and mental health goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in mental healthcare. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals and families, believing that informed patients achieve better health outcomes. During visits with me, patients can expect open communication to discuss their unique concerns and mental health goals.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Matt Vickers, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7982fc85-fd90-4c76-9331-a200237ca7e9/7/320x400.jpeg)
Matt Vickers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Jordan, UT 84095
It can be difficult for any person to overcome mental and emotional struggles on their own. It isn’t enough to simply want to feel better or want to stop hurting. Sometimes the emotional pain can feel like too much to handle... It doesn't have to be that way. • Hopelessness • Worry • Fear • Mental fatigue • Irritability • Feeling overwhelmed • Sleep problems • Mood swings • Disorganized thinking • Poor motivation • Anxiety attacks • Substance abuse • Intrusive thoughts • We can help. Our approach to treating mental illness begins with effective communication and focuses on the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms.
It can be difficult for any person to overcome mental and emotional struggles on their own. It isn’t enough to simply want to feel better or want to stop hurting. Sometimes the emotional pain can feel like too much to handle... It doesn't have to be that way. • Hopelessness • Worry • Fear • Mental fatigue • Irritability • Feeling overwhelmed • Sleep problems • Mood swings • Disorganized thinking • Poor motivation • Anxiety attacks • Substance abuse • Intrusive thoughts • We can help. Our approach to treating mental illness begins with effective communication and focuses on the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms.
![Photo of Dr. Brian Berrett, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ff1eec-e32a-4644-842c-fb2fdbec544a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Brian Berrett. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who is committed to providing high quality care in a timely manner - we will get you in within 2 weeks guaranteed. I specialize in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, autism, trauma, and other mental health conditions. If we work together, I will enjoy finding solutions to help you live your best life -- a life built on striving towards your values, or the things you hold most dear in life. I take great joy when such achievements are more prevalent or poignant in your life due to the improved capacity you have gained.
Hello, my name is Brian Berrett. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who is committed to providing high quality care in a timely manner - we will get you in within 2 weeks guaranteed. I specialize in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, autism, trauma, and other mental health conditions. If we work together, I will enjoy finding solutions to help you live your best life -- a life built on striving towards your values, or the things you hold most dear in life. I take great joy when such achievements are more prevalent or poignant in your life due to the improved capacity you have gained.
![Photo of Josh Woodland, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5258091f-3297-41c9-bb19-163aa9c4b499/3/320x400.png)
Josh Woodland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Jordan, UT 84095 (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! Rather than offering quick appointments and rushed prescriptions, my style is a holistic, personalized approach. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My clients often leave our sessions with a sense of relief, knowing they have a treatment plan that is tailored to their unique needs and preferences.
Now accepting new clients! Rather than offering quick appointments and rushed prescriptions, my style is a holistic, personalized approach. By integrating medication management with various therapeutic techniques in a relaxed, conversational environment, I create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings deeply and comfortably. My clients often leave our sessions with a sense of relief, knowing they have a treatment plan that is tailored to their unique needs and preferences.
![Photo of William Bunn - Intercare Consulting: Psych medication treatment, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49f30136-5ec7-417b-9abb-033a286a5471/2/320x400.jpeg)
Intercare Consulting: Psych medication treatment
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
South Jordan, UT 84095
Book an appointment today at Intercareconsulting.com Welcome to Intercare Consulting with Board-certified mental health professionals now available for in-office visits or telemedicine through your mobile device. Diagnosis and medication management for: Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, Panic Disorders, Postpartum Depression, Trauma & PTSD, ADHD treatment. Pharmacogenomic Testing available. Accepting new patients age 6 and up. We do not do disability claims or verification unless you are a current patient.
Book an appointment today at Intercareconsulting.com Welcome to Intercare Consulting with Board-certified mental health professionals now available for in-office visits or telemedicine through your mobile device. Diagnosis and medication management for: Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, Panic Disorders, Postpartum Depression, Trauma & PTSD, ADHD treatment. Pharmacogenomic Testing available. Accepting new patients age 6 and up. We do not do disability claims or verification unless you are a current patient.
![Photo of Steven K Elrod, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/836bee9c-7469-4414-8494-a4905154d2ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Herriman, UT 84096 (Online Only)
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger, or PTSD? A full psychiatric evaluation and research-proven effective treatment options including medication and psychotherapy could put you back on the healthy path.
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger, or PTSD? A full psychiatric evaluation and research-proven effective treatment options including medication and psychotherapy could put you back on the healthy path.
![Photo of Sheenali Kansagra, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dabbd187-6a07-45ed-bf03-aa70b2f82480/2/320x400.jpeg)
Having practiced in the field of mental health for over 10 years, I have worked with patients of all ages and treated a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and various psychotic disorders.
Having practiced in the field of mental health for over 10 years, I have worked with patients of all ages and treated a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and various psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Nadine Smith - Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1617d4a-5546-4dda-ac11-e74f06d2da98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
South Jordan, UT 84095 (Online Only)
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Dr. Vineka Heeramun, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a99b8bb-9808-4f4e-97dc-fc280a5b25e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling overwhelmed? Feel like you’re stuck? Disconnected, sad, down? Sleepless nights? Riddled with worry, anxiety, or panic? Feeling like you cant get going, get things done no matter how hard you try? Have You or a loved one been struggling with mood changes or psychosis? Suffered from trauma? Have you been hesitant to seek help despite your struggles? If you answered yes to any of the above, you are at right place.Now is the time to reach out. Your life does not need to be miserable, you deserve better. Let us help you, so you can achieve your goals.
Feeling overwhelmed? Feel like you’re stuck? Disconnected, sad, down? Sleepless nights? Riddled with worry, anxiety, or panic? Feeling like you cant get going, get things done no matter how hard you try? Have You or a loved one been struggling with mood changes or psychosis? Suffered from trauma? Have you been hesitant to seek help despite your struggles? If you answered yes to any of the above, you are at right place.Now is the time to reach out. Your life does not need to be miserable, you deserve better. Let us help you, so you can achieve your goals.
![Photo of Jennifer Marie Bush, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38f81b3d-80f3-44c3-800c-796cfbc4c4f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Marie Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
South Jordan, UT 84095
I was born and grew up in Guadalajara, Mexico and I'm passionate about serving individuals from diverse backgrounds. I emphasize in collaborative care to create an individualized treatment plan combining knowledge of both physical and mental health care to achieve wellness.
I was born and grew up in Guadalajara, Mexico and I'm passionate about serving individuals from diverse backgrounds. I emphasize in collaborative care to create an individualized treatment plan combining knowledge of both physical and mental health care to achieve wellness.
![Photo of Hans Watson - Dynamic Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23fdd448-378f-4805-b2eb-560ab7537f12/2/320x400.jpeg)
Want to get both medication management and therapy in one place and be seen within a week by providers with decades of experience? We can help! Over 95% of our patients are seen in less than a week of calling and every provider is either a physician or directly trained by physicians. We accept anyone 12+ years old and take virtually all insurances. Call to setup your first appointment.
Want to get both medication management and therapy in one place and be seen within a week by providers with decades of experience? We can help! Over 95% of our patients are seen in less than a week of calling and every provider is either a physician or directly trained by physicians. We accept anyone 12+ years old and take virtually all insurances. Call to setup your first appointment.
See more therapy options for Riverton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Riverton, UT
10+
Psychiatrists in Riverton, UT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
90% | ADHD |
90% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Psychosis |
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Riverton, UT see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Riverton?
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.