Psychiatrists in 52302

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.

Atlas Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PHMNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marion, IA 52302
At Atlas Psychiatry we approach psychiatry differently. We guide Christians pursuing emotional freedom toward genuine change, not merely masking symptoms. We use a biblical and holistic approach that respects the mind’s innate potential to heal primarily by being "transformed by the renewing of the mind" Romans 12:2. We also specialize in integrative approaches such as psychotherapy, nutrition, supplements, lifestyle modification, as well as informed guidance for those seeking to safely withdraw from psychiatric medication. We seek to treat the whole person in one place for genuine change.
At Atlas Psychiatry we approach psychiatry differently. We guide Christians pursuing emotional freedom toward genuine change, not merely masking symptoms. We use a biblical and holistic approach that respects the mind’s innate potential to heal primarily by being "transformed by the renewing of the mind" Romans 12:2. We also specialize in integrative approaches such as psychotherapy, nutrition, supplements, lifestyle modification, as well as informed guidance for those seeking to safely withdraw from psychiatric medication. We seek to treat the whole person in one place for genuine change.

Noel Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, SANE
Verified Verified
Marion, IA 52302
Now able to accept new patients! Noel Adams is a board certified medication provider specializing in Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder) ADHD, Depression and other Mood Disorders, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, and Behavioral Disorders. Noel provides care to patients across a lifespan (ages 6+) with over a decade of experience in healthcare helping individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
Now able to accept new patients! Noel Adams is a board certified medication provider specializing in Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder) ADHD, Depression and other Mood Disorders, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, and Behavioral Disorders. Noel provides care to patients across a lifespan (ages 6+) with over a decade of experience in healthcare helping individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.

Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.

Angela Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified medication provider who specializes in the diagnosing and medication management of ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder), Autism, Schizophrenia and Behavioral Disorders. I help clients through the lifespan (3+) and have over a decade of experience in healthcare assisting individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
I am a board certified medication provider who specializes in the diagnosing and medication management of ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder), Autism, Schizophrenia and Behavioral Disorders. I help clients through the lifespan (3+) and have over a decade of experience in healthcare assisting individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.

Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap, and schedule your free consultation today!
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap, and schedule your free consultation today!

Jeanne-Marie Fournier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.

Lindsay Schock, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner at Prism Psychiatric Group in Hiawatha. She works with individuals ages 6 and up. She especially enjoys helping those who experience Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder), Depression and other Mood Disorders, ADHD, Behavioral Disorders, Trauma, Psychotic Disorders, and Bipolar Disorders.
Lindsay Schock, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner at Prism Psychiatric Group in Hiawatha. She works with individuals ages 6 and up. She especially enjoys helping those who experience Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder), Depression and other Mood Disorders, ADHD, Behavioral Disorders, Trauma, Psychotic Disorders, and Bipolar Disorders.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Baraka Behavioral Health (BBH), LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!

Abby Burns-Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
I can see ages 6 years old and up. I work with all populations including children and adolescents, adults, older adults, and LGBTQ+.
I can see ages 6 years old and up. I work with all populations including children and adolescents, adults, older adults, and LGBTQ+.

Kadesha Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Kadesha, a Psychiatric NP deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their mental health journeys. I believe in the power of understanding and healing, and I am committed to providing compassionate, collaborative care. My practice focuses on general psychiatric conditions with a special emphasis on women’s mental health. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or navigating life’s challenges, I am here to help you tap into your strengths and develop strategies that work for you. My aim is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where healing, growth, and lasting change can take place.
Welcome! I’m Kadesha, a Psychiatric NP deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their mental health journeys. I believe in the power of understanding and healing, and I am committed to providing compassionate, collaborative care. My practice focuses on general psychiatric conditions with a special emphasis on women’s mental health. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or navigating life’s challenges, I am here to help you tap into your strengths and develop strategies that work for you. My aim is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where healing, growth, and lasting change can take place.

My name is Anna McMullen, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I use a holistic treatment approach to mental health care, recognizing the importance of physical and psychological health. I encourage healthy lifestyle choices and habits to complement pharmacological treatment. I aim to provide a positive and holistic approach to medication management. I think it is important to find balance in your life and it starts with improving self-esteem and good self-care. I use a person-centered approach meaning you are in charge; we go at your speed and things should always be within your comfort level.
My name is Anna McMullen, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I use a holistic treatment approach to mental health care, recognizing the importance of physical and psychological health. I encourage healthy lifestyle choices and habits to complement pharmacological treatment. I aim to provide a positive and holistic approach to medication management. I think it is important to find balance in your life and it starts with improving self-esteem and good self-care. I use a person-centered approach meaning you are in charge; we go at your speed and things should always be within your comfort level.

I truly enjoy working with all psychiatric diagnoses, but I especially enjoy working with borderline personality disorder and facilitating STEPPS group for this group of patients. I also have a strong passion in treating child and adult ADHD. I firmly believe in psychiatric wellness and work with my patients from a “whole person” approach to not only treat their illness with medication, but also therapy, good nutrition and general health.
I truly enjoy working with all psychiatric diagnoses, but I especially enjoy working with borderline personality disorder and facilitating STEPPS group for this group of patients. I also have a strong passion in treating child and adult ADHD. I firmly believe in psychiatric wellness and work with my patients from a “whole person” approach to not only treat their illness with medication, but also therapy, good nutrition and general health.

Dr. Giuliani is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. He is also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and is a Diplomate and certified member of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy. Dr. Giuliani takes an individualized approach to treating patients and is happy to discuss treatment options using medications or
Dr. Giuliani is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. He is also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and is a Diplomate and certified member of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy. Dr. Giuliani takes an individualized approach to treating patients and is happy to discuss treatment options using medications or

Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
NOW ACCEPTING new virtual patients with same-week appointments. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illnesses is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
NOW ACCEPTING new virtual patients with same-week appointments. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illnesses is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.

Salient Health and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW Patients! VIRTUAL appointments in GA, WA, OR, FL & IA. Meet Dr. Joy Ibeh, a doctoral trained, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC), with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. In Salient Health and Wellness, we are patient-centered, and our services include Psych assessments, Medication Management, and Individualized Treatment Plans. She approaches her patients with focus in understanding the peculiarity of their psychiatric & mental health needs. Her goal is to cut through various barriers that may place limitation in getting Mental Health Care.
Accepting NEW Patients! VIRTUAL appointments in GA, WA, OR, FL & IA. Meet Dr. Joy Ibeh, a doctoral trained, double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC), with over 15 combined years of clinical experience. In Salient Health and Wellness, we are patient-centered, and our services include Psych assessments, Medication Management, and Individualized Treatment Plans. She approaches her patients with focus in understanding the peculiarity of their psychiatric & mental health needs. Her goal is to cut through various barriers that may place limitation in getting Mental Health Care.

Hi, I'm Danielle Van Oosbree. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I use a client-centered approach with hopes in providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, along with medication management. I create a relaxed atmosphere, so the patient feels comfortable being able to express themselves without feeling judged.
Hi, I'm Danielle Van Oosbree. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I use a client-centered approach with hopes in providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, along with medication management. I create a relaxed atmosphere, so the patient feels comfortable being able to express themselves without feeling judged.

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.

Hello there! I am Kelsey Lamb, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Prism Psychiatric Group.
I started my nursing career in behavioral health in 2011. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2017.
Prism Psychiatric Group is an outpatient mental health practice dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care to clients aged five and older. Our practice emphasizes an easy-going, collaborative, and client-centered approach. My primary focus is on creating a supportive environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to work toward their mental health goals.
Hello there! I am Kelsey Lamb, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Prism Psychiatric Group.
I started my nursing career in behavioral health in 2011. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2017.
Prism Psychiatric Group is an outpatient mental health practice dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care to clients aged five and older. Our practice emphasizes an easy-going, collaborative, and client-centered approach. My primary focus is on creating a supportive environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to work toward their mental health goals.

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.
See more therapy options for 52302
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 52302
< 10
Psychiatrists in 52302 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | ADHD |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
88% | Sleep or Insomnia |
88% | Stress |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
63% | Aetna |
63% | Wellmark BCBS |
How Psychiatrists in 52302 see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 52302?
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.