Psychiatrists in Casa Grande, AZ
![Photo of Dr. Paulina Zapata, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59fe3e6f-6eb4-49dd-b0e2-8aeaa1670ea4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Paulina Zapata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122 (Online Only)
Paulina Zapata is a doctorally prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She works with patients across the lifespan starting at age 6, diagnosing and treating a range of mental, emotional, behavioral, and substance use disorders.
Paulina Zapata is a doctorally prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She works with patients across the lifespan starting at age 6, diagnosing and treating a range of mental, emotional, behavioral, and substance use disorders.
At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, our vision is to create a world where mental health is a top priority and everyone has access to quality mental health care. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. We offer a range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care to all of our clients.
At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, our vision is to create a world where mental health is a top priority and everyone has access to quality mental health care. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. We offer a range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care to all of our clients.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy , DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee5e8459-f3b4-42ef-a40a-70911357788c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Emmanuel Timothy Onyeani, PMHNP, CNP, MSN, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08c428f4-14be-4fc3-9d8e-8fc0a3ce9128/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emmanuel Timothy Onyeani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, MSN, MBA
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I started my career in Psychiatry in 2005, in the United Kingdom, as an associate mental health practitioner at the NHS/University of Southampton. I have a Bachelors of Nursing from Georgia Southern University and two years of family Nurse practitioner training from South University and a Masters of Mental health nurse practitioner from Walden University . I am ANCC board certified and can treat patients with mental health condition across the lifespan .Addiction and crises is my specialty. I work at a community crisis center .I also have a private practice .Always happy to help
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I started my career in Psychiatry in 2005, in the United Kingdom, as an associate mental health practitioner at the NHS/University of Southampton. I have a Bachelors of Nursing from Georgia Southern University and two years of family Nurse practitioner training from South University and a Masters of Mental health nurse practitioner from Walden University . I am ANCC board certified and can treat patients with mental health condition across the lifespan .Addiction and crises is my specialty. I work at a community crisis center .I also have a private practice .Always happy to help
Temitope Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Primary Care and Psych Dual Provider Suboxone, Sublucade same day prescription.At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, our vision is to create a world where mental health is a top priority and everyone has access to quality mental health care. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. We offer a range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate
Primary Care and Psych Dual Provider Suboxone, Sublucade same day prescription.At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, our vision is to create a world where mental health is a top priority and everyone has access to quality mental health care. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. We offer a range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate
Olive Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, our vision is to create a world where mental health is a top priority and everyone has access to quality mental health care. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. We offer a range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care to all of our clients.
At Olive Health and Wellness LLC, our vision is to create a world where mental health is a top priority and everyone has access to quality mental health care. We believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. We offer a range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and telehealth services. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care to all of our clients.
Our IOP program allows the individuals seeking recovery to live at home, it is very important that this home is a safe and supportive environment. Drug addiction is a mental illness, and can be difficult to treat when surrounded by possible triggers. However, one of the main focuses of these programs are relapse prevention and learning to use healthy coping skills to manage stress and loss.
Our IOP program allows the individuals seeking recovery to live at home, it is very important that this home is a safe and supportive environment. Drug addiction is a mental illness, and can be difficult to treat when surrounded by possible triggers. However, one of the main focuses of these programs are relapse prevention and learning to use healthy coping skills to manage stress and loss.
![Photo of Ibukun Odutola - Victory Health Solution LLC (Virtual Appts ONLY), APRN, PMHNP, BC, CNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9eeff864-c260-468d-92e9-fb2f4e01bc71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victory Health Solution LLC (Virtual Appts ONLY)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, CNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122 (Online Only)
Attention:Same day prescriptions. we offer only telepsychiatry services. Afraid of over dose call me for Naloxone Now ! Addiction,Opiod use, CALL for your Naltrexone now. No more addiction. Your local pharmacy may be able to give you Vivitrol. TRIWEST/ TRICARE welcome. Please note we do not offer in-person services at this time. We treat opioid, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, cleptomaniac, ADHD and depression. We treat all other mental health disorders. Please click on our website link to make your appointment. We accept cash at $90 / Month if you do not have insurance.
Attention:Same day prescriptions. we offer only telepsychiatry services. Afraid of over dose call me for Naloxone Now ! Addiction,Opiod use, CALL for your Naltrexone now. No more addiction. Your local pharmacy may be able to give you Vivitrol. TRIWEST/ TRICARE welcome. Please note we do not offer in-person services at this time. We treat opioid, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, cleptomaniac, ADHD and depression. We treat all other mental health disorders. Please click on our website link to make your appointment. We accept cash at $90 / Month if you do not have insurance.
![Photo of Cheryl Ross - Arizona Inner Peace Clinic PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90eaf0da-aa7c-4886-b8d2-07e97d9e93a7/2/320x400.png)
Arizona Inner Peace Clinic PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85194 (Online Only)
Welcome to Arizona Inner Peace Clinic PLLC My name is Cheryl Ross and I am a dedicated psychiatric and women’s health nurse practitioner, who is committed to providing compassionate and effective mental healthcare for women during challenging stages of life. I specialize in medication management and counseling for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, role change anxiety, premenstrual mood changes, peri-menopausal mood changes, post-partum depression, grief and sleep disorders. Our visits will take place from my private office to the comfort of your home via a secure virtual platform. I offer convenient hours.
Welcome to Arizona Inner Peace Clinic PLLC My name is Cheryl Ross and I am a dedicated psychiatric and women’s health nurse practitioner, who is committed to providing compassionate and effective mental healthcare for women during challenging stages of life. I specialize in medication management and counseling for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, role change anxiety, premenstrual mood changes, peri-menopausal mood changes, post-partum depression, grief and sleep disorders. Our visits will take place from my private office to the comfort of your home via a secure virtual platform. I offer convenient hours.
![Photo of Ramses Uriel Vargas, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f58afea-a038-4395-82e1-130ffd078b28/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ramses Uriel Vargas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
I like to think that I started my medical career in the summer of 2008, when I started working at a vitamin company as a wash boy. From there I started manufacturing vitamins and became fascinated with pharmaceuticals and medicine. I am proud to say I followed my dream and now I'm able to provide mental health services for my community. From certified nursing assistant to Doctorate of Nursing practice; I have worked with several clients throughout the lifespan and know that Psychiatry is my calling. See you soon!
I like to think that I started my medical career in the summer of 2008, when I started working at a vitamin company as a wash boy. From there I started manufacturing vitamins and became fascinated with pharmaceuticals and medicine. I am proud to say I followed my dream and now I'm able to provide mental health services for my community. From certified nursing assistant to Doctorate of Nursing practice; I have worked with several clients throughout the lifespan and know that Psychiatry is my calling. See you soon!
![Photo of Dr. Jade Goodloe, DNP, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c770221-662e-49c6-86eb-369838f7c86d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122 (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
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![Photo of Shavaun Johnson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6decbccd-ec5b-4635-9024-7823f4303ac6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shavaun Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Casa Grande, AZ 85194 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Shavaun Johnson, DNP is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Light at the End PLLC, serving all of the Valley as well as the surrounding rural communities in Phoenix. Having worked in behavioral/mental health for over 10 years in various settings/roles including corrections, inpatient care, outpatient care, community mental health, residential care, and acute treatment she is passionate about advocating for mental health and vulnerable populations.
Shavaun Johnson, DNP is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Light at the End PLLC, serving all of the Valley as well as the surrounding rural communities in Phoenix. Having worked in behavioral/mental health for over 10 years in various settings/roles including corrections, inpatient care, outpatient care, community mental health, residential care, and acute treatment she is passionate about advocating for mental health and vulnerable populations.
Strategies for Success
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsychNP
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatrist (MD) with a positive, caring and down to earth approach, I take a holistic view of your medication management experience. In addition to medications, I also believe in lifestyle changes, psychotherapy and wellness activities that contribute to your overall well being. My goal is by working together, we can work on helping you achieve the best quality of life you can have. I will listen, and take time to make sure you are heard. I will also take the time to make sure you understand my recommendations, and answer questions that you have about recommendations for any medications that I may make for you.
As a Psychiatrist (MD) with a positive, caring and down to earth approach, I take a holistic view of your medication management experience. In addition to medications, I also believe in lifestyle changes, psychotherapy and wellness activities that contribute to your overall well being. My goal is by working together, we can work on helping you achieve the best quality of life you can have. I will listen, and take time to make sure you are heard. I will also take the time to make sure you understand my recommendations, and answer questions that you have about recommendations for any medications that I may make for you.
![Photo of Andrea Stults, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ad9092-052f-46e2-b583-a090c517bd46/1/320x400.png)
Andrea Stults
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Feeling like you're under a constant cloud, struggling to find a bit of sunshine? You're not alone. Many of us move through life carrying a weight only we can see, silently questioning if anyone else could truly understand. Recognizing and seeking help for these feelings is a brave step. Imagine for a moment the possibility of lightening this load, allowing your true self to shine through once again. My practice is built on a foundation of compassion using a client-centered approach. We focus on creating a partnership where you feel seen and understood.
Feeling like you're under a constant cloud, struggling to find a bit of sunshine? You're not alone. Many of us move through life carrying a weight only we can see, silently questioning if anyone else could truly understand. Recognizing and seeking help for these feelings is a brave step. Imagine for a moment the possibility of lightening this load, allowing your true self to shine through once again. My practice is built on a foundation of compassion using a client-centered approach. We focus on creating a partnership where you feel seen and understood.
![Photo of Tanya Smith - Strategies for Success, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a58764c-91f2-4f0a-8d23-6f0b5c689cc0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Strategies for Success
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Oluwatoyin Rotimi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5fc2e13-0fae-42b4-97b3-514289c8a884/3/320x400.jpeg)
Oluwatoyin Rotimi
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arizona City, AZ 85123 (Online Only)
Currently, I am accepting new clients. Please send inquiries via email. I am a certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in GA, AZ, MT, and FL.
Currently, I am accepting new clients. Please send inquiries via email. I am a certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in GA, AZ, MT, and FL.
![Photo of Dr. Rowan Teboh, PhD, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6a72365-3bf9-4c52-822f-2e6b1759ca01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rowan Teboh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arizona City, AZ 85223 (Online Only)
Hello! Dr. Rowan Teboh here. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center & licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have a PhD in Nursing (hence the Dr. to my name). I am here to help with your mental health. What is that issue that is bothering you so much that you cannot function normally? Click the link below & hop in lets talk about it. That is why I am here. To listen to you and address your mental health problem. No Controlled Substances at this time please. Alternatives available.
Hello! Dr. Rowan Teboh here. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center & licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have a PhD in Nursing (hence the Dr. to my name). I am here to help with your mental health. What is that issue that is bothering you so much that you cannot function normally? Click the link below & hop in lets talk about it. That is why I am here. To listen to you and address your mental health problem. No Controlled Substances at this time please. Alternatives available.
![Photo of Dr. Martha Mozia - Global Integrated Medical & Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f338585-54db-43fe-a67a-56e7fcdd93a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Global Integrated Medical & Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PMHS
Verified Verified
Arizona City, AZ 85223
Dr. Martha Mozia is a Board Certified Child/Adolescent Psychiatry; Board Certified General Psychiatric NP, Board Certified Geriatric NP, Board Certified Family Practitioner NP,. Certificate in Alcohol/Drug Specialist and Completed her Fellowship in Addiction from UCI/UC Davis. Her current focus is integration of Behavioral Health in Primary Care, Behavioral Medical Home, and Integrated, holistic Behavioral Care of Complex patients through Telepsychiatry and Telemedicine.
Dr. Martha Mozia is a Board Certified Child/Adolescent Psychiatry; Board Certified General Psychiatric NP, Board Certified Geriatric NP, Board Certified Family Practitioner NP,. Certificate in Alcohol/Drug Specialist and Completed her Fellowship in Addiction from UCI/UC Davis. Her current focus is integration of Behavioral Health in Primary Care, Behavioral Medical Home, and Integrated, holistic Behavioral Care of Complex patients through Telepsychiatry and Telemedicine.
![Photo of Dr. Olurounke Remijohnson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eeacbca6-0adb-4f0d-a472-015c61c7e4f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Olurounke Remijohnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Arizona City, AZ 85223
Olurounke Remi Johnson (DNP, APN, FNP, PMHNP-BC) is dual Board Certified. She is qualified to diagnose and treat disorders in patients of all age groups. Some of her practice specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorders, Insomnia, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and many more. Olurounke style of practice is an evidence-based practice with a focus on a holistic approach in which she includes medication management, the benefit of psychotherapy, exercise, stress management, and lifestyle modification.
Olurounke Remi Johnson (DNP, APN, FNP, PMHNP-BC) is dual Board Certified. She is qualified to diagnose and treat disorders in patients of all age groups. Some of her practice specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorders, Insomnia, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and many more. Olurounke style of practice is an evidence-based practice with a focus on a holistic approach in which she includes medication management, the benefit of psychotherapy, exercise, stress management, and lifestyle modification.
![Photo of Jacob W Read - Complexity Care Mental Health Clinic, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fe0789d-c9f8-4661-befa-44064a429998/2/320x400.jpeg)
Complexity Care Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arizona City, AZ 85123 (Online Only)
My journey to becoming a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) took a nontraditional route. Initially leaving school to work in construction, I later earned my GED, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. This realization led me to pursue and obtain my degree from Vanderbilt University, marking the beginning of my career in mental health.
My journey to becoming a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) took a nontraditional route. Initially leaving school to work in construction, I later earned my GED, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. This realization led me to pursue and obtain my degree from Vanderbilt University, marking the beginning of my career in mental health.
See more therapy options for Casa Grande
Nearby Searches for Casa Grande
- Apache Junction
- Arizona City
- Avondale
- Chandler
- Florence
- Gilbert
- Laveen
- Marana
- Mesa
- Queen Creek
- San Tan Valley
- Tempe
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Casa Grande, AZ
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Casa Grande, AZ who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Depression |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Sleep or Insomnia |
73% | Medication Management |
60% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Casa Grande, AZ see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Casa Grande?
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.