Psychiatrists in 52732

Photo of Rachel D. Hart, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel D. Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, IA 52732
Welcome NEW clients! I'm so glad you're choosing medication management. This first step shows such courage. I look forward to working together as you embark on your new journey. Please know that med management is a safe space to explore uncomfortable feelings. Feeling nervous or apprehensive is normal, and it's okay to have questions. I am here for your support. Most intakes last around an hour. Subsequent appointments will vary in frequency depending on your needs. Those appointments are between 15-to-30-minute sessions to discuss how you are doing and make joint decisions moving forward. I am cheering for you!
Welcome NEW clients! I'm so glad you're choosing medication management. This first step shows such courage. I look forward to working together as you embark on your new journey. Please know that med management is a safe space to explore uncomfortable feelings. Feeling nervous or apprehensive is normal, and it's okay to have questions. I am here for your support. Most intakes last around an hour. Subsequent appointments will vary in frequency depending on your needs. Those appointments are between 15-to-30-minute sessions to discuss how you are doing and make joint decisions moving forward. I am cheering for you!
(563) 674-6218 View (563) 674-6218

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Breanna Millsap, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52807  (Online Only)
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your consultation today.
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your consultation today.
(712) 717-0776 View (712) 717-0776
Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52806  (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
(319) 450-7511 View (319) 450-7511
Photo of Tonia Ajamu - Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807  (Online Only)
Your mental well-being matters. Discover a safe space where healing begins, Empathetic support, personalized strategies, and a journey towards a brighter tomorrow await you at our practice. Take the first step towards a healthier mind. You deserve the care you need. Together, let's unlock your potential. I am a dedicated patient focused provider that will always seek to embrace and utilize traditional as well as innovative treatments to help you live an optimal life. I will also encourage you to participate in your treatment goals, which will enhance your mental, physical, and social wellness.
Your mental well-being matters. Discover a safe space where healing begins, Empathetic support, personalized strategies, and a journey towards a brighter tomorrow await you at our practice. Take the first step towards a healthier mind. You deserve the care you need. Together, let's unlock your potential. I am a dedicated patient focused provider that will always seek to embrace and utilize traditional as well as innovative treatments to help you live an optimal life. I will also encourage you to participate in your treatment goals, which will enhance your mental, physical, and social wellness.
(563) 281-5093 View (563) 281-5093
Photo of Travis Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Travis Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52809
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) 316-2189 View (515) 316-2189
Photo of Precious Jimbola Chandler, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Precious Jimbola Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bettendorf, IA 52722
I am Precious, and so are you! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I am passionate about empowering adults and children on their mental health journeys. I believe in integrating medication management with the power of narrative medicine. I also believe in quality over quantity. By understanding your story, we can work together to create a personalized path towards healing. I offer comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health concerns. My goal is to create a lasting pattern of stability and progressive healing.
I am Precious, and so are you! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I am passionate about empowering adults and children on their mental health journeys. I believe in integrating medication management with the power of narrative medicine. I also believe in quality over quantity. By understanding your story, we can work together to create a personalized path towards healing. I offer comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health concerns. My goal is to create a lasting pattern of stability and progressive healing.
(726) 727-4037 View (726) 727-4037
Photo of Mimi LaCouture, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mimi LaCouture
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52803
Hi! I am devoted to working with you to achieve a life you find more enjoyable. For some, that might mean your days feel a bit easier or maybe your nights feel a bit safer, or both. I understand that mental health affects us each in an especially unique way, and even hits us differently from day to night. We can work together to find a plan that works for YOU, not just what works for everyone else.
Hi! I am devoted to working with you to achieve a life you find more enjoyable. For some, that might mean your days feel a bit easier or maybe your nights feel a bit safer, or both. I understand that mental health affects us each in an especially unique way, and even hits us differently from day to night. We can work together to find a plan that works for YOU, not just what works for everyone else.
(563) 794-4928 View (563) 794-4928
Photo of Ann Barbaro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ann Barbaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
(262) 587-6075 View (262) 587-6075
Photo of Chelsea Davis, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsea Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807
You are an independent individual who deserves your very own unique treatment plan. Starting from the first day we meet, I will work with you to develop that medication plan, making adjustments along the way as needed. I promise to listen to your needs and to only make decisions based on trusted research along with your continued input.
You are an independent individual who deserves your very own unique treatment plan. Starting from the first day we meet, I will work with you to develop that medication plan, making adjustments along the way as needed. I promise to listen to your needs and to only make decisions based on trusted research along with your continued input.
(563) 853-8250 View (563) 853-8250
Photo of Tomeka Hill, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tomeka Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52803  (Online Only)
My focus areas for mental health treatment include psychotherapeutic treatment and medication management for the following: anxiety, depression, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, and substance use disorder. I use evidence-based strategies to support issues such as trauma focused care. Motivational interviewing, strength-based care, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral strategies. My goal is to provide improvement in your overall health.
My focus areas for mental health treatment include psychotherapeutic treatment and medication management for the following: anxiety, depression, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, and substance use disorder. I use evidence-based strategies to support issues such as trauma focused care. Motivational interviewing, strength-based care, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral strategies. My goal is to provide improvement in your overall health.
(515) 808-5012 View (515) 808-5012
Photo of Maria Lynn Sonnack, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Maria Lynn Sonnack
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52807
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.
(319) 595-4327 View (319) 595-4327

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Evans K Komen - Cedar Circle Mental Health and wellness, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cedar Circle Mental Health and wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
I am a 2014 graduate of the University of Iowa. I have worked in healthcare for over 20 years in various capacities. I have practiced as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently accept clients 12 years of age and above. I manage a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. I firmly believe in a holistic approach for my clients to achieve optimal mental health.
I am a 2014 graduate of the University of Iowa. I have worked in healthcare for over 20 years in various capacities. I have practiced as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently accept clients 12 years of age and above. I manage a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. I firmly believe in a holistic approach for my clients to achieve optimal mental health.
(319) 396-1066 View (319) 396-1066
Photo of Denay Kelly - Holistic Wellness & Psychiatry, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Wellness & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
With over 38 years of healthcare experience, I enjoy helping patients become the best versions of themselves. I am kind, understanding and easy to talk to.
With over 38 years of healthcare experience, I enjoy helping patients become the best versions of themselves. I am kind, understanding and easy to talk to.
(319) 264-2982 View (319) 264-2982
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marion, IA 52302  (Online Only)
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.
(319) 474-5607 View (319) 474-5607
Photo of Breanna Millsap, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dubuque, IA 52001  (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!
(986) 234-6085 View (986) 234-6085
Photo of Jeanne-Marie Fournier, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeanne-Marie Fournier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
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.
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 Crystal Lee-Cook, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Lee-Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Crystal Lee Cook, MSN, PMHNP, APRN My approach to mental health care involves patient center care and utilizing evidence-based practice and a collaborative approach involving patient and provider insights. A holistic assessment expands the assessment beyond the purely clinical experience to include factors such as social support, cultural background, spiritual beliefs, and lifestyle factors which facilitates improved outcomes and client empowerment.
Crystal Lee Cook, MSN, PMHNP, APRN My approach to mental health care involves patient center care and utilizing evidence-based practice and a collaborative approach involving patient and provider insights. A holistic assessment expands the assessment beyond the purely clinical experience to include factors such as social support, cultural background, spiritual beliefs, and lifestyle factors which facilitates improved outcomes and client empowerment.
(319) 456-4640 View (319) 456-4640
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 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 Laurie McCormick - Holistic Wellness & Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Holistic Wellness & Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
I love working with patients who are ready for a change to become a better version of themselves. These days, there are so many treatment options available that there is no reason a person can't get completely or nearly completely better.
I love working with patients who are ready for a change to become a better version of themselves. These days, there are so many treatment options available that there is no reason a person can't get completely or nearly completely better.
(928) 325-2813 View (928) 325-2813

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 52732

< 10

Psychiatrists in 52732 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Spirituality
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Dissociative Disorders (DID)

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 52732 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 52732?

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.