Psychiatrists in Salt Lake City, UT
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b01c071b-9c0f-4416-9e71-dd4707aef237/1/320x400.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 Jennifer Foresman, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d83df01-1d1d-4307-9ed3-5224190a3977/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Foresman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
Marissa Sarhadi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84103 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with adult clients suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and mood instability. Many of my clients are dealing with emotional or behavioral issues related to modern life stresses and do not necessarily have a diagnosis (or "label"). Sometimes clients just need someone to maintain upkeep on ordering their medications and ensuring insurance coverage. I encourage people from all demographics and all backgrounds to have an open mind and reach out!
I work with adult clients suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and mood instability. Many of my clients are dealing with emotional or behavioral issues related to modern life stresses and do not necessarily have a diagnosis (or "label"). Sometimes clients just need someone to maintain upkeep on ordering their medications and ensuring insurance coverage. I encourage people from all demographics and all backgrounds to have an open mind and reach out!
![Photo of Jennifer Foresman - Balance Psychiatric Services, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ec52960-55c6-4d63-adc9-82e4179e5219/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84102 (Online Only)
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
![Photo of Sara DeLong, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2aa0c3ce-157b-4997-8efd-5433ca7f73e8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara DeLong
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Waitlist for new clients
We all go through difficult times. However, if you have been struggling with mood issues for more than a few weeks, or your loved ones have suggested you get help, you might benefit from a further evaluation. Dr. DeLong helps people get back on track and functioning at their best. She does medication assessments and evaluations for people age 21 years of age and older.
We all go through difficult times. However, if you have been struggling with mood issues for more than a few weeks, or your loved ones have suggested you get help, you might benefit from a further evaluation. Dr. DeLong helps people get back on track and functioning at their best. She does medication assessments and evaluations for people age 21 years of age and older.
![Photo of Nancy Foster, PhD, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa78d9b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy Foster
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84109
Not accepting new clients
I believe that each patient has a right to choose his or her own path in treatment. My job is to guide you in understanding the medical causes, therapy options and potential results in order to enable your right to make informed choices about your mental health. I specialize in mental health issues as based on an integrative, evidence based approach to mind, body and spirit. I focus on identifying and treating the individual rather than the symptoms.
I believe that each patient has a right to choose his or her own path in treatment. My job is to guide you in understanding the medical causes, therapy options and potential results in order to enable your right to make informed choices about your mental health. I specialize in mental health issues as based on an integrative, evidence based approach to mind, body and spirit. I focus on identifying and treating the individual rather than the symptoms.
![Photo of Elisabeth Warner - High Desert Mental Health & Wellness, RN, MSN, CAS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5791b0b-d608-472d-b65a-ba35fcdf624e/2/320x400.jpeg)
High Desert Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CAS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106 (Online Only)
An experienced medical/mental health professional, I bring to our treatment relationship more than 30 yrs of exceptional patient care, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health since 1998. I am committed to facilitating your improved well-being through active listening and safe, evidence-based practices. My practice offers diagnostic assessment, medication management & brief, solution-focused therapy. I am skilled in developing therapeutic relationships which foster trust and promote shared decision making, recognizing you as “the expert on you.” As such, I commit to prioritizing individual needs & preferences in treatment planning.
An experienced medical/mental health professional, I bring to our treatment relationship more than 30 yrs of exceptional patient care, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health since 1998. I am committed to facilitating your improved well-being through active listening and safe, evidence-based practices. My practice offers diagnostic assessment, medication management & brief, solution-focused therapy. I am skilled in developing therapeutic relationships which foster trust and promote shared decision making, recognizing you as “the expert on you.” As such, I commit to prioritizing individual needs & preferences in treatment planning.
![Photo of Krista Gusack, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fe54da9-48cc-44bc-afe8-242d8a4c859b/1/320x400.png)
Krista Gusack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105 (Online Only)
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am experienced in treating people with diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma related disorders including PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, substance use, and personality disorders. I am passionate about providing an accepting environment where we work together to explore your values, preferences and goals. Options will be shared with you with risks/benefits, you are encouraged to ask questions and have a supportive person present if you choose this.
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am experienced in treating people with diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma related disorders including PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, substance use, and personality disorders. I am passionate about providing an accepting environment where we work together to explore your values, preferences and goals. Options will be shared with you with risks/benefits, you are encouraged to ask questions and have a supportive person present if you choose this.
![Photo of Daniel Sly - Connections Nursing Psychiatry PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fecba542-e62b-4fd5-ae41-1cc1b2e2ae5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connections Nursing Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84116 (Online Only)
Life can be hard, especially when you’re worn down and experiencing mood instability such as anxiety, depression, and all of its accompanying challenges. These challenges may include insomnia, apathy, restlessness, cravings, hopelessness, panic symptoms, low self worth, obsessions and endless ruminating, thoughts of self harm, and many others. These issues and more often stem from an unstable mood and tendencies toward certain negative thoughts and emotions brought about by life’s unrelenting challenges.
Life can be hard, especially when you’re worn down and experiencing mood instability such as anxiety, depression, and all of its accompanying challenges. These challenges may include insomnia, apathy, restlessness, cravings, hopelessness, panic symptoms, low self worth, obsessions and endless ruminating, thoughts of self harm, and many others. These issues and more often stem from an unstable mood and tendencies toward certain negative thoughts and emotions brought about by life’s unrelenting challenges.
![Photo of Tiffany A. Meyer - Inner Mind Mental Health Services, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6612885-4fc8-44b4-b964-a9cc4fb855c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Mind Mental Health Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Individuals who are struggling with mental health issues are on the rise, especially considering all that has happened over the last few year. Struggling with mental health issues can be difficult and lead to feelings of hopelessness, making it hard to reach out for help. Please know that you are not alone, and that help is available. I received my MS in Health Education from Utah State University, my BSN from the University of Utah, and my MS in Nursing from Regis College. I have over 16 years of experience as a registered nurse in a variety of specialties including adult psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and substance abuse.
Individuals who are struggling with mental health issues are on the rise, especially considering all that has happened over the last few year. Struggling with mental health issues can be difficult and lead to feelings of hopelessness, making it hard to reach out for help. Please know that you are not alone, and that help is available. I received my MS in Health Education from Utah State University, my BSN from the University of Utah, and my MS in Nursing from Regis College. I have over 16 years of experience as a registered nurse in a variety of specialties including adult psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and substance abuse.
![Photo of Emily Van Os, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b4a7782-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Van Os
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84109 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and my passion is helping individuals achieve their mental health goals. I look at health from an evidence based integrative perspective and value finding the root causes of imbalances leading to mental health concerns. There are often medical issues that contribute to mental health symptoms, including hormone or nutritional imbalances. I will work with each person to find an optimal treatment plan that takes medical and emotional factors into consideration. I look forward to working with you!
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and my passion is helping individuals achieve their mental health goals. I look at health from an evidence based integrative perspective and value finding the root causes of imbalances leading to mental health concerns. There are often medical issues that contribute to mental health symptoms, including hormone or nutritional imbalances. I will work with each person to find an optimal treatment plan that takes medical and emotional factors into consideration. I look forward to working with you!
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![Photo of Cheryl Marchant Jensen, MS, APRN, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f4f7e09-1266-45b6-a7e8-bf32fcf47ad9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl Marchant Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse, MS, APRN, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84124 (Online Only)
It's normal to feel anxious about seeking help. Relief often comes after reaching out. Its hard to bear any burden alone! I understand that you have come to this site in search of help from someone who is willing to listen fully and to work with you to achieve your mental health goals. Together we will identify your concerns and develop a plan to effectively treat them. You deserve to be heard, to have support, direction and, to be healthy and happy! I have over 30 years experience and, I am licensed to prescribe medications and to provide psychotherapy.
It's normal to feel anxious about seeking help. Relief often comes after reaching out. Its hard to bear any burden alone! I understand that you have come to this site in search of help from someone who is willing to listen fully and to work with you to achieve your mental health goals. Together we will identify your concerns and develop a plan to effectively treat them. You deserve to be heard, to have support, direction and, to be healthy and happy! I have over 30 years experience and, I am licensed to prescribe medications and to provide psychotherapy.
![Photo of Jennifer Pemble Weakland, PMHNP, FNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a3efa25-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Pemble Weakland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, ANP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
Hi, I am accepting new patients. My sessions with you will focus on identifying your individual concerns, symptoms, and behaviors that you would like addressed. As a team, I will partner with you to target and address, the true underlying causes and factors, that prevent or inhibit you from living your ideal life. I provide therapy and medication management. In addition to treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric disorders, I have a strong background and interest in working with clients dealing with chronic diseases and end of life issues.
Hi, I am accepting new patients. My sessions with you will focus on identifying your individual concerns, symptoms, and behaviors that you would like addressed. As a team, I will partner with you to target and address, the true underlying causes and factors, that prevent or inhibit you from living your ideal life. I provide therapy and medication management. In addition to treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric disorders, I have a strong background and interest in working with clients dealing with chronic diseases and end of life issues.
![Photo of Jeannett Madsen - Madsen Wellness , APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bea2713-5389-418e-bd41-baea38a0862a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madsen Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106 (Online Only)
Jeannett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her Masters in Nursing Practice from Maryville University of St. Louis. She has had the privilege of working in many practice areas throughout her 27-year career starting with pediatric critical care, oncology, inpatient, and residential treatment facilities, and substance use. Much of her psychiatry experience has been working in substance use and general mental health at the University of Utah. She is passionate about helping her patients gain an understanding of their mental health struggles.
Jeannett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her Masters in Nursing Practice from Maryville University of St. Louis. She has had the privilege of working in many practice areas throughout her 27-year career starting with pediatric critical care, oncology, inpatient, and residential treatment facilities, and substance use. Much of her psychiatry experience has been working in substance use and general mental health at the University of Utah. She is passionate about helping her patients gain an understanding of their mental health struggles.
![Photo of Melissa Alm, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f4507f7-90f4-4ca9-9e24-3d985e39c736/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Alm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Do you find that you are struggling more and more to manage work, home, school and stability in your relationships with family and friends? It is true that these overwhelming feelings and struggles can visit anyone from time to time throughout their lives. However, if their visits have become extended stays and then they have set up permanent residence that is affecting your ability to live your life - it may be time to reach out for some additional help.
Do you find that you are struggling more and more to manage work, home, school and stability in your relationships with family and friends? It is true that these overwhelming feelings and struggles can visit anyone from time to time throughout their lives. However, if their visits have become extended stays and then they have set up permanent residence that is affecting your ability to live your life - it may be time to reach out for some additional help.
![Photo of Juliana Pires, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feaee127-a17e-4e59-b6dd-9e2b1fc3d832/1/320x400.png)
Juliana Pires
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84118 (Online Only)
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
![Photo of Rachel Jenkins-Lloyd, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71476463-74f8-4fc8-ab3a-0a321419ba3c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Jenkins-Lloyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
Rachel JenkinsLloyd is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2003. She has a Masters in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Utah. Rachel offers medication management from a Feminist Empowerment Perspective. She has an extensive background in trauma informed care including EMDR and previous work in ketamine assisted therapy. Rachel believes strongly in educating clients in their medication choices then supporting them in their care. Outside of work, Rachel loves reading, especially biographies.
Rachel JenkinsLloyd is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2003. She has a Masters in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Utah. Rachel offers medication management from a Feminist Empowerment Perspective. She has an extensive background in trauma informed care including EMDR and previous work in ketamine assisted therapy. Rachel believes strongly in educating clients in their medication choices then supporting them in their care. Outside of work, Rachel loves reading, especially biographies.
I am a board-certified Child & Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist with more than 30 years experience providing conservative medication management and individual psychotherapy. I have 6 years of training through the C. G. Jung Institute in Chicago. Therapy is Jungian-based and sometimes utilizes dreams, active imagination, sand tray, play therapy, even the tarot . Self-pay only; no insurance, medicaid, or medicare as my practice is small. NOTE: It takes approximately 2 months to schedule a new medication evaluation, usually less time for new therapy patients, no exceptions. You must leave a message to receive a return call.
I am a board-certified Child & Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist with more than 30 years experience providing conservative medication management and individual psychotherapy. I have 6 years of training through the C. G. Jung Institute in Chicago. Therapy is Jungian-based and sometimes utilizes dreams, active imagination, sand tray, play therapy, even the tarot . Self-pay only; no insurance, medicaid, or medicare as my practice is small. NOTE: It takes approximately 2 months to schedule a new medication evaluation, usually less time for new therapy patients, no exceptions. You must leave a message to receive a return call.
![Photo of Michael Scott Cyra, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/987d9ae0-b12c-4ad3-90bd-7964ef975ddc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Scott Cyra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84121 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you're failing? Are you not where you want to be in life because of anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction? Discover what is possible in your life by unlocking your true potential, and becoming better than your former best wellness. Understand the “next-steps” you have been missing. Turn your suffering into permanent growth and resilience. By combining medication management, talk therapy / mindset orientation, and lifestyle optimization—nutrition, exercise, and sleep, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Do you feel like you're failing? Are you not where you want to be in life because of anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction? Discover what is possible in your life by unlocking your true potential, and becoming better than your former best wellness. Understand the “next-steps” you have been missing. Turn your suffering into permanent growth and resilience. By combining medication management, talk therapy / mindset orientation, and lifestyle optimization—nutrition, exercise, and sleep, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
![Photo of Mandi Joy Christensen, MPAS, PA-C, BSRT, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a90350a6-f7cc-418d-addf-5f4c0c0c3125/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mandi Joy Christensen
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, BSRT
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Simply put, in my practice my patients get better. People need to feel seen and heard. They are looking for acceptance, hope and individualism. While you are in my care this will provided for each of you. Each treatment plan will be uniquely designed for you, taking into account the mind body connection to achieve individual remission. We will utilize blood work, lab/genetic testing to objectively treat both body and mind. This holistic approach also encompasses tools like therapy, mindfulness, spirituality, authenticity and connection. With the combination of the correct meds and these tools, remission can and will be achieved.
Simply put, in my practice my patients get better. People need to feel seen and heard. They are looking for acceptance, hope and individualism. While you are in my care this will provided for each of you. Each treatment plan will be uniquely designed for you, taking into account the mind body connection to achieve individual remission. We will utilize blood work, lab/genetic testing to objectively treat both body and mind. This holistic approach also encompasses tools like therapy, mindfulness, spirituality, authenticity and connection. With the combination of the correct meds and these tools, remission can and will be achieved.
See more therapy options for Salt Lake City
Nearby Searches for Salt Lake City
- Cottonwood Heights
- Draper
- Farmington
- Herriman
- Holladay
- Midvale
- Murray
- Park City
- Riverton
- Sandy
- South Jordan
- West Jordan
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Salt Lake City, UT
80+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Salt Lake City, UT who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
85% | Medication Management |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | Aetna |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
73% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Salt Lake City, UT see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
24% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Salt Lake City?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.