Psychiatrists in 55044
Nexus Of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Multiple providers available ONLINE and IN-OFFICE! Offering TMS services and other alternative therapies! New evaluation appointments are currently available within 7 days or less. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
Multiple providers available ONLINE and IN-OFFICE! Offering TMS services and other alternative therapies! New evaluation appointments are currently available within 7 days or less. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
Our mental health is essential in keeping us balanced in our daily lives. I can help you obtain balance in your mental health. My goal is to help you handle your interpretation and response to your daily stressors. I can assist you through psychotherapy or prescriptive medications. During my spare time I enjoy the oceans and rivers. My interpretation of life is like the ocean coming to shore, it is always a different wave symbolic for our opportunity to make a difference daily.
Our mental health is essential in keeping us balanced in our daily lives. I can help you obtain balance in your mental health. My goal is to help you handle your interpretation and response to your daily stressors. I can assist you through psychotherapy or prescriptive medications. During my spare time I enjoy the oceans and rivers. My interpretation of life is like the ocean coming to shore, it is always a different wave symbolic for our opportunity to make a difference daily.
InnerClarity Psychiatry & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, PHN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients! I'm Aicha, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, dedicated to offering comprehensive and culturally congruent care to support individuals on their path to personal growth. I help young adults, women, and mothers struggling with depression, anxiety, and burnout improve their mood, reduce anxiety, feel energized, and engage more effectively in their personal and professional relationships through holistic treatment modalities.
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients! I'm Aicha, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, dedicated to offering comprehensive and culturally congruent care to support individuals on their path to personal growth. I help young adults, women, and mothers struggling with depression, anxiety, and burnout improve their mood, reduce anxiety, feel energized, and engage more effectively in their personal and professional relationships through holistic treatment modalities.
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I obtained a Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee Knoxville-Health Sciences in 2016. With seven years of experience in interdisciplinary care settings, I specialize in working with highly complex patient populations. My commitment lies in delivering personalized patient care, integrating a holistic approach that addresses both medical and social factors affecting wellbeing. Alongside my clinical practice, I am dedicated to educating doctoral student candidates and newly graduated psychiatric nurse practitioners.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I obtained a Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee Knoxville-Health Sciences in 2016. With seven years of experience in interdisciplinary care settings, I specialize in working with highly complex patient populations. My commitment lies in delivering personalized patient care, integrating a holistic approach that addresses both medical and social factors affecting wellbeing. Alongside my clinical practice, I am dedicated to educating doctoral student candidates and newly graduated psychiatric nurse practitioners.
Afolake Adewumi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Afolake is a board-certified Advanced Practice provider, who is passionate about providing safe, and holistic care to clients across their lifespan. Afolake provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and on-going psychiatric care for patients of all ages. With her experience working in various care settings (inpatient, transitional, and outpatient populations) and a background in health and wellness coaching, Afolake, listens to help identify and prioritize the unique needs of each client.
Afolake is a board-certified Advanced Practice provider, who is passionate about providing safe, and holistic care to clients across their lifespan. Afolake provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and on-going psychiatric care for patients of all ages. With her experience working in various care settings (inpatient, transitional, and outpatient populations) and a background in health and wellness coaching, Afolake, listens to help identify and prioritize the unique needs of each client.
Nexus of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Telehealth appointments are available for your convenience. Appointments are available within 7 days or less. We also have extended evening hours. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Telehealth appointments are available for your convenience. Appointments are available within 7 days or less. We also have extended evening hours. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
My background is rooted in mental health with over 14 years of experience in the field, 6 as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My approach is one of collaboration with you, to find the best regimen tailored to your health goals. I am well trained and experienced in treating psychiatric conditions including but not limited to Depressive disorders, Anxiety disorders, Trauma/stress disorders, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and Attention-deficit hyperactive disorder. My goal is to create a therapeutic alliance with you in order to understand your concerns and offer recommendations that put you on the path of recovery.
My background is rooted in mental health with over 14 years of experience in the field, 6 as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My approach is one of collaboration with you, to find the best regimen tailored to your health goals. I am well trained and experienced in treating psychiatric conditions including but not limited to Depressive disorders, Anxiety disorders, Trauma/stress disorders, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and Attention-deficit hyperactive disorder. My goal is to create a therapeutic alliance with you in order to understand your concerns and offer recommendations that put you on the path of recovery.
Kelsey Helgeson MSN, APRN is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who offers medication management and psychotherapy to patients for all mental health diagnoses and ages. After witnessing the profound impact mental health issues had on her family, peers, and community, Kelsey pursued a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She developed a profound empathy and a strong desire to assist others in overcoming their mental health challenges.
Kelsey Helgeson MSN, APRN is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who offers medication management and psychotherapy to patients for all mental health diagnoses and ages. After witnessing the profound impact mental health issues had on her family, peers, and community, Kelsey pursued a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She developed a profound empathy and a strong desire to assist others in overcoming their mental health challenges.
Joanne Howden-Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Hello, I'm Joanne, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. I offer the convenience of both in-office and telehealth appointments, ensuring you can access care in a way that best suits your needs. My approach is holistic, combining medication where necessary with therapy to treat a wide variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and behavioral issues. I am not just a provider but a partner in your mental health journey.
Hello, I'm Joanne, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. I offer the convenience of both in-office and telehealth appointments, ensuring you can access care in a way that best suits your needs. My approach is holistic, combining medication where necessary with therapy to treat a wide variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and behavioral issues. I am not just a provider but a partner in your mental health journey.
Hello, my name is Habon Mohamed, and I am a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). I know that seeking mental health care can be daunting, and finding the right provider is key to meaningful progress. Whether you're managing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, my aim is to create a space where you feel understood and supported. Many of my clients seek clarity, balance, and empowerment, and I strive to provide personalized care to help you achieve your goals.
Hello, my name is Habon Mohamed, and I am a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). I know that seeking mental health care can be daunting, and finding the right provider is key to meaningful progress. Whether you're managing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, my aim is to create a space where you feel understood and supported. Many of my clients seek clarity, balance, and empowerment, and I strive to provide personalized care to help you achieve your goals.
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Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, know that you're not alone. I'm here to provide guidance, support, and encouragement every step of the way. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations, medication management and limited psychotherapy. Together, we will explore effective ways and techniques to help you overcome these challenges and achieve a happier, more fulfilling life.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, know that you're not alone. I'm here to provide guidance, support, and encouragement every step of the way. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations, medication management and limited psychotherapy. Together, we will explore effective ways and techniques to help you overcome these challenges and achieve a happier, more fulfilling life.
Kelsey Helgeson MSN, APRN is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who offers medication management and psychotherapy to patients for all mental health diagnoses and ages. After witnessing the profound impact mental health issues had on her family, peers, and community, Kelsey pursued a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She developed a profound empathy and a strong desire to assist others in overcoming their mental health challenges. Furthermore, witnessing individuals battle with the challenge of obtaining sufficient mental health treatment served as an incentive for her to pursue a profession
Kelsey Helgeson MSN, APRN is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who offers medication management and psychotherapy to patients for all mental health diagnoses and ages. After witnessing the profound impact mental health issues had on her family, peers, and community, Kelsey pursued a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She developed a profound empathy and a strong desire to assist others in overcoming their mental health challenges. Furthermore, witnessing individuals battle with the challenge of obtaining sufficient mental health treatment served as an incentive for her to pursue a profession
If you’re feeling down, feeling anxious, struggling to find joy in daily life, or experiencing irritability and mood swings that impact your work and relationships, I’m here to help. Many people face stress, burnout, and a sense of unfulfillment at work, school, or home, often feeling constantly on edge. My goal is to help you find clarity and balance, promote your well-being, and regain a sense of control so you can lead a more joyful life.
If you’re feeling down, feeling anxious, struggling to find joy in daily life, or experiencing irritability and mood swings that impact your work and relationships, I’m here to help. Many people face stress, burnout, and a sense of unfulfillment at work, school, or home, often feeling constantly on edge. My goal is to help you find clarity and balance, promote your well-being, and regain a sense of control so you can lead a more joyful life.
My ideal client seeks compassionate, holistic care for challenges like anxiety, ADHD, or weight management. They want a tailored treatment plan that addresses their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Their goal is to achieve balanced health, and they value a collaborative approach in their healthcare journey.
My ideal client seeks compassionate, holistic care for challenges like anxiety, ADHD, or weight management. They want a tailored treatment plan that addresses their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Their goal is to achieve balanced health, and they value a collaborative approach in their healthcare journey.
My name is Funsho King (Foon-sha), and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on treating mental health disorders. My goal as a provider is to provide the care that patients deserve. I am a good listener, compassionate, genuine, and empathetic. I like to meet patients where they are, anticipate their needs, and meet those needs so that they can function optimally. I treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, etc. throughout the lifespan.
My name is Funsho King (Foon-sha), and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on treating mental health disorders. My goal as a provider is to provide the care that patients deserve. I am a good listener, compassionate, genuine, and empathetic. I like to meet patients where they are, anticipate their needs, and meet those needs so that they can function optimally. I treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, etc. throughout the lifespan.
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Often, the struggle of feeling alone in a thought pattern cycle leads to isolation, hopelessness, loneliness, worry, and sometimes, addiction. Relationships, work performance, values, and goals suffer as a result of unaddressed negative patterns. The treatment for most mental illnesses is seeking 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, safe, psychotropic medication plus therapy will help improve your symptoms.
Often, the struggle of feeling alone in a thought pattern cycle leads to isolation, hopelessness, loneliness, worry, and sometimes, addiction. Relationships, work performance, values, and goals suffer as a result of unaddressed negative patterns. The treatment for most mental illnesses is seeking 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, safe, psychotropic medication plus therapy will help improve your symptoms.
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.
Hello, I am Alaba Kehinde "Kenny", I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a nonjudgmental provider who believes in an evidence-based approach to treatment. I have been helping adults (18 to 65+) with wide range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, PTSD, Sleep Disorder/Insomnia, ADHD, Postpartum Mental health conditions, etc. I am warm, approachable and an active listener.
Hello, I am Alaba Kehinde "Kenny", I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a nonjudgmental provider who believes in an evidence-based approach to treatment. I have been helping adults (18 to 65+) with wide range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, PTSD, Sleep Disorder/Insomnia, ADHD, Postpartum Mental health conditions, etc. I am warm, approachable and an active listener.
See more therapy options for 55044
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 55044
30+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 55044 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
91% | ADHD |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 55044 see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 55044?
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.