Provider Types
Psychiatrists (MD or DO)
These providers are physicians (either MD or DO) who have completed
advanced training in an accredited Psychiatry Residency. Psychiatrists are experts in the diagnosis of mental illness and the use of medications. They are also skilled psychotherapists. Not all psychiatrists choose to provide psychotherapy, but many do.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (Psy-NP)
These are nurses who have completed advanced training at the master's level. They have also completed extensive supervised clinical training in the area of psychiatry. They are skilled at making diagnoses and managing medications used to treat mental illnesses. Ideally, nurse practitioners should work under the supervision of a physician. In the State of Arizona, nurse practitioners are independently licensed by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Arizona State law allows them to practice independent of supervision. At Tucson Central Psychiatry, our nurse practitioners have many years of experience. They also have ready access to a board certified psychiatrist for consultation on more complex cases.
Master's Level Psychotherapists (LCSW, LMFT, LISAC, LPC)
These therapists come from various backgrounds including social work, psychology and education. They must complete additional clinical training and supervision. They are experienced and skilled psychotherapists.
Doctoral Level Psychotherapists (PhD, PsyD, EdD)
These are generally clinical psychologists. Credentials may be PhD, PsyD or EdD. Many doctoral level clinicians provide a range or psychotherapies. Some doctoral level psychologists specialize in various types of psychometric testing.
Services
Diagnostic Evaluation (90801)
Personal interview with the patient lasting 45-60 minutes in most cases. The interview includes a history of the presenting illness as well as a detailed medical and psycho-social history. The interview ends with an initial diagnosis and formulation of a treatment plan. The structure, content and objectives may differ depending on whether you are being evaluated for medication, establishing care with a psychotherapist or both.
Medication Management Session (90862)
15-20 minute appointment that is problem focused. Medications are monitored and managed. Limited supportive therapy is also provided and there is coordination of care with the patient’s psychotherapist and/or other physicians. This service can only be provided by licensed MD, DO or NP.
Brief Psychotherapy Session (90804/90805)
25-30 minute appointment for psychotherapy that may be combined with management of medication. When medication management is involved this service is provided by a licensed MD, DO, or NP.
Full Psychotherapy Session (90806/90807)
45-50 minute appointment for psychotherapy that may be combined with management of medication. This service is typically provided by a non-prescribing psychotherapist. When medication management is involved this services is provided by a
licensed MD, DO, or NP.
