Psychiatrists in 52241

Photo of Alexine Kejika Nansinla, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexine Kejika Nansinla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I provide medication management services to children (ages 6+), adolescents, and adults. I understand life can have many challenges, and working together, I will help you gain a deeper understanding of how these challenges are impacting your life, school, work and social life. I provide a non-judgmental and client centered approach. I view you as an individual and will individualize your care based on your needs. I respect and value your cultural and personal values and will incorporate them into your plan of care. I will meet you where your mental and behavioral health needs exist and together, we will identify a treatment plan.
I provide medication management services to children (ages 6+), adolescents, and adults. I understand life can have many challenges, and working together, I will help you gain a deeper understanding of how these challenges are impacting your life, school, work and social life. I provide a non-judgmental and client centered approach. I view you as an individual and will individualize your care based on your needs. I respect and value your cultural and personal values and will incorporate them into your plan of care. I will meet you where your mental and behavioral health needs exist and together, we will identify a treatment plan.
(319) 343-5229 View (319) 343-5229
Photo of Rachel Mack, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Mack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is ready to listen and guide you in improving your overall mental health. I see primarily adults (ages 18+) and utilize evidence based practice treatments which may include medication management, behavioral and supportive psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. I have a special interest in helping individuals suffering from mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, and/or OCD. I also enjoy working with women looking to optimize their mental well-being safely during pregnancy and postpartum stages.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is ready to listen and guide you in improving your overall mental health. I see primarily adults (ages 18+) and utilize evidence based practice treatments which may include medication management, behavioral and supportive psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. I have a special interest in helping individuals suffering from mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, and/or OCD. I also enjoy working with women looking to optimize their mental well-being safely during pregnancy and postpartum stages.
(563) 412-5677 View (563) 412-5677
Photo of Kristina Flanagan, MSN, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristina Flanagan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
I practice patient centered care and see each patient as an individual not a diagnosis. I provided a thorough assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and help guide you to an individualized treatment plan.
I practice patient centered care and see each patient as an individual not a diagnosis. I provided a thorough assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and help guide you to an individualized treatment plan.
(319) 536-1228 View (319) 536-1228
Photo of Margaret Burchianti, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margaret Burchianti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241  (Online Only)
I practice integrative psychiatry, which weaves together conventional psychiatric treatments like medications with complementary and alternative ones. To care for you, I will draw on functional medicine, natural and traditional remedies, lifestyle interventions, and mind-body practices. The integrative approach also tends to be much more holistic and individualized than the conventional psychiatric approach so you can expect highly personalized care. I also take a functional medicine approach, which means that we look below the surface and aim to resolve the root causes of your symptoms.
I practice integrative psychiatry, which weaves together conventional psychiatric treatments like medications with complementary and alternative ones. To care for you, I will draw on functional medicine, natural and traditional remedies, lifestyle interventions, and mind-body practices. The integrative approach also tends to be much more holistic and individualized than the conventional psychiatric approach so you can expect highly personalized care. I also take a functional medicine approach, which means that we look below the surface and aim to resolve the root causes of your symptoms.
(319) 658-5164 View (319) 658-5164
Photo of Ben Jaggers - Ben Jaggers Covenant Family Solutions Coralville, ARNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ben Jaggers Covenant Family Solutions Coralville
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
Reflective listening and genuine care are foundations to my practice. Nurturing a clinical relationship with you is the reason I am here. Together we focus on a plan that is right for your current circumstances and future goals. By providing medication management and brief supportive therapy at each session, we not only work towards reducing severe psychiatric symptoms with medications, but work towards improving engagement in healthy self care choices related to our most basic needs as people (e.g. sleep, diet, movement, relationships, safety, security).
Reflective listening and genuine care are foundations to my practice. Nurturing a clinical relationship with you is the reason I am here. Together we focus on a plan that is right for your current circumstances and future goals. By providing medication management and brief supportive therapy at each session, we not only work towards reducing severe psychiatric symptoms with medications, but work towards improving engagement in healthy self care choices related to our most basic needs as people (e.g. sleep, diet, movement, relationships, safety, security).
(319) 264-2610 View (319) 264-2610
Photo of Davonna Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Davonna Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
(480) 500-1241 View (480) 500-1241
Photo of Amber Arthurs, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Arthurs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
Amber is focused on developing a partnership with her clients by providing patient-centered care. She believes it is important to take the time to listen to her clients’ concerns and health goals to develop an optimal treatment plan. Amber’s style of practice includes traditional medicine, as well as natural treatments including but not limited to: vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management
Amber is focused on developing a partnership with her clients by providing patient-centered care. She believes it is important to take the time to listen to her clients’ concerns and health goals to develop an optimal treatment plan. Amber’s style of practice includes traditional medicine, as well as natural treatments including but not limited to: vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management
(319) 469-8623 View (319) 469-8623
Photo of Robin Cook Kopelman, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Robin Cook Kopelman
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
Dr. Robin Kopelman is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and is a leading expert in the state of Iowa in the fields of Women’s and Maternal/Perinatal Mental Health. She is passionate about working with women to streamline their care to address their unique preferences and life circumstances. Her expertise includes helping patients make informed decisions about medication use related to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and reproductive hormone status, while offering broader services to all women across adulthood.
Dr. Robin Kopelman is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and is a leading expert in the state of Iowa in the fields of Women’s and Maternal/Perinatal Mental Health. She is passionate about working with women to streamline their care to address their unique preferences and life circumstances. Her expertise includes helping patients make informed decisions about medication use related to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and reproductive hormone status, while offering broader services to all women across adulthood.
(319) 209-9344 View (319) 209-9344
Photo of Laurie McCormick, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Laurie McCormick
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I’m an integrative/holistic psychiatrist and family physician with functional medicine as well as psychedelic-assisted therapy training. I’ve been in practice for 20 years (post-residency, as a tenure-track academic research scientist and educator at the University of Iowa College of Medicine, then in private practice in St Thomas, USVI, and Iowa City. I’m excited to now be able to offer a variety of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy options to more people suffering from a variety of conditions including anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorders.
I’m an integrative/holistic psychiatrist and family physician with functional medicine as well as psychedelic-assisted therapy training. I’ve been in practice for 20 years (post-residency, as a tenure-track academic research scientist and educator at the University of Iowa College of Medicine, then in private practice in St Thomas, USVI, and Iowa City. I’m excited to now be able to offer a variety of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy options to more people suffering from a variety of conditions including anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorders.
(319) 220-0134 View (319) 220-0134

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Esther Uangbaoje - Hecen Healthcare, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hecen Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240  (Online Only)
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation virtually. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation virtually. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
(319) 264-6892 View (319) 264-6892
Photo of Elizabeth Homan - Mariposa Psychiatric Center, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Mariposa Psychiatric Center
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
(319) 536-1964 View (319) 536-1964
Photo of Sheri DiGiacinto, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheri DiGiacinto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Neuroaffirming Autism and ADHD assessments and holistic med management. As a Vanderbilt-trained PMHNP-BC and Autistic and ADHD human myself, working with neurodivergent folx is my jam. I offer collaborative, trauma-aware, and non-pathologizing assessments for Autism and ADHD for individuals aged 12 and up. My expertise lies in supporting high-masking individuals, LGBTQIA+ community members, those with a PDA profile, teens and adults, and those who have been overlooked by traditional assessment methods. I also offer holistic medication management specializing in working with neurodivergent and LGBTQ folx.
Neuroaffirming Autism and ADHD assessments and holistic med management. As a Vanderbilt-trained PMHNP-BC and Autistic and ADHD human myself, working with neurodivergent folx is my jam. I offer collaborative, trauma-aware, and non-pathologizing assessments for Autism and ADHD for individuals aged 12 and up. My expertise lies in supporting high-masking individuals, LGBTQIA+ community members, those with a PDA profile, teens and adults, and those who have been overlooked by traditional assessment methods. I also offer holistic medication management specializing in working with neurodivergent and LGBTQ folx.
(515) 726-4222 View (515) 726-4222
Photo of Kayla Lea Carlsten - Calamity Rose Ranch, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Calamity Rose Ranch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Our ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking a holistic approach to mental health. They need a safe space to express feelings, professional guidance to manage symptoms, and practical coping strategies. Their goals are to reduce anxiety and depression, build self-esteem, and improve relationships. They come to Calamity Rose Ranch for the unique blend of professional therapy and the healing presence of therapy animals, aiming for mental balance and a fulfilling life. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to make positive changes.
Our ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking a holistic approach to mental health. They need a safe space to express feelings, professional guidance to manage symptoms, and practical coping strategies. Their goals are to reduce anxiety and depression, build self-esteem, and improve relationships. They come to Calamity Rose Ranch for the unique blend of professional therapy and the healing presence of therapy animals, aiming for mental balance and a fulfilling life. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to make positive changes.
(563) 261-4434 View (563) 261-4434
Photo of Jeanne-Marie Fournier, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeanne-Marie Fournier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Jeanne-Marie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals aged 8 and older. No referrals are needed and accepting new clients. She takes time to listen to her patient's concerns to work towards their overall goals. She uses a holistic approach incorporating trauma-informed care, empathy, and compassion to treat the whole person with traditional medicine. Our office is located at 42 7th Ave SW, Ste 100 (Mott Blvd), Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
Jeanne-Marie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals aged 8 and older. No referrals are needed and accepting new clients. She takes time to listen to her patient's concerns to work towards their overall goals. She uses a holistic approach incorporating trauma-informed care, empathy, and compassion to treat the whole person with traditional medicine. Our office is located at 42 7th Ave SW, Ste 100 (Mott Blvd), Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
(319) 448-3805 View (319) 448-3805
Photo of Elizabeth Brake - Bliss Psychiatry, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bliss Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52246  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
(515) 379-8572 View (515) 379-8572
Photo of Erika Bales, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52242  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(515) 325-1363 View (515) 325-1363
Photo of Kara Whalen, PA-C, MPAS, Physician Assistant
Kara Whalen
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245
Please reach out if you are interested in exploring a wholistic approach to your psychiatric care including a combination of medication therapy, integrated ketamine sessions, and motivational interviewing to identify goals and areas of dysfunction. I enjoy working with motivated individuals of all backgrounds. I have 10 plus years of experience in developing treatments plan for those suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, trauma, and personality disorders.
Please reach out if you are interested in exploring a wholistic approach to your psychiatric care including a combination of medication therapy, integrated ketamine sessions, and motivational interviewing to identify goals and areas of dysfunction. I enjoy working with motivated individuals of all backgrounds. I have 10 plus years of experience in developing treatments plan for those suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, trauma, and personality disorders.
(319) 670-2794 View (319) 670-2794
Photo of David Edwin Drake, DO, MTS, Psychiatrist
David Edwin Drake
Psychiatrist, DO, MTS
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52242  (Online Only)
Fees are negotiable! As a psychiatrist I have a unique practice where I offer combined talk work (psychotherapy) along with conservative use of medication, where helpful. I work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems perspective, having trained extensively in Bowen Family Systems Theory. A Colorado native, I live in Des Moines, Iowa and provide televideo psychiatry throughout both Iowa and Colorado. I negotiate fees with my patients. I am able to see folks on Medicare if they sign a waiver that allows me to bill them on a self-pay basis. Call me and let's talk.
Fees are negotiable! As a psychiatrist I have a unique practice where I offer combined talk work (psychotherapy) along with conservative use of medication, where helpful. I work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems perspective, having trained extensively in Bowen Family Systems Theory. A Colorado native, I live in Des Moines, Iowa and provide televideo psychiatry throughout both Iowa and Colorado. I negotiate fees with my patients. I am able to see folks on Medicare if they sign a waiver that allows me to bill them on a self-pay basis. Call me and let's talk.
(515) 585-1323 View (515) 585-1323
Photo of Alexx Kwilinski, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexx Kwilinski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52242
I am a dually board-certified nurse practitioner in mental health across the lifespan and adult health. I am committed to serving the mental health community. I have a special interest in holistic health and wellness. I have clinical interest in disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorders, addiction, substance abuse, eating disorders, personality disorders, and more. I offer appointments for individuals ages 6+.
I am a dually board-certified nurse practitioner in mental health across the lifespan and adult health. I am committed to serving the mental health community. I have a special interest in holistic health and wellness. I have clinical interest in disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorders, addiction, substance abuse, eating disorders, personality disorders, and more. I offer appointments for individuals ages 6+.
(319) 264-1858 View (319) 264-1858
Mind Connection Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52242
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT THIS TIME***Welcome to Mind Connection Behavioral Health where your mental health is our priority. We are committed to providing you with exceptional mental health and psychiatric services, and delivering high quality care to patients of all ages. Our goal is to make you feel valued and not numbered.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT THIS TIME***Welcome to Mind Connection Behavioral Health where your mental health is our priority. We are committed to providing you with exceptional mental health and psychiatric services, and delivering high quality care to patients of all ages. Our goal is to make you feel valued and not numbered.
(515) 705-5866 View (515) 705-5866

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 52241

< 10

Psychiatrists in 52241 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
89% ADHD
89% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Sleep or Insomnia
89% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Wellmark BCBS
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 52241 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 52241?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.