Psychiatrists in 55114

Photo of Heidi J Titze, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heidi J Titze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Heidi Titze is a board-certified family practice and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has spent the majority of her career working in community care. She is passionate about helping those who need it most and ensuring that comprehensive health care is accessible to all. Heidi strives to focus on holistic integrated care attending to the physical, psychological, and social well-being of each of her patients. Her approach to your care is thorough and primarily focuses on treating you as the individual you are and not a symptom or a diagnosis.
Heidi Titze is a board-certified family practice and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has spent the majority of her career working in community care. She is passionate about helping those who need it most and ensuring that comprehensive health care is accessible to all. Heidi strives to focus on holistic integrated care attending to the physical, psychological, and social well-being of each of her patients. Her approach to your care is thorough and primarily focuses on treating you as the individual you are and not a symptom or a diagnosis.
(651) 360-1294 View (651) 360-1294
Photo of Agnes Limunga Jackai, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Agnes Limunga Jackai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Now accepting new clients within 48 hours with no waiting list. Seeking mental health wellness will empower your day-to-day life, healthy behaviors, self-management, and well-being. Start the Healing process. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 11 + years of inpatient and outpatient nursing experience in various healthcare settings. I earned my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. I'm specialized in Psych Med Management, evaluation, Prescription / Refill, Med Review, and Follow-up for individuals across the lifespan. I works with adults, adolescents, and children 8 +.
Now accepting new clients within 48 hours with no waiting list. Seeking mental health wellness will empower your day-to-day life, healthy behaviors, self-management, and well-being. Start the Healing process. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 11 + years of inpatient and outpatient nursing experience in various healthcare settings. I earned my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. I'm specialized in Psych Med Management, evaluation, Prescription / Refill, Med Review, and Follow-up for individuals across the lifespan. I works with adults, adolescents, and children 8 +.
(651) 390-1495 View (651) 390-1495
Photo of Bryan Carleton - Psychotherapy & Healing Associates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychotherapy & Healing Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Many different factors cause depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. There may be situational, biological or hormonal components to a person’s suffering. Better self-care, coping techniques, and other alternatives may help, but may not bring enough relief or recovery necessary to function effectively and feel good. We perform thorough evaluations and have a discussion with you to determine if medication would be helpful or advised. Each person’s comfort level is respected and nothing is prescribed that goes against your willingness or readiness.
Many different factors cause depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. There may be situational, biological or hormonal components to a person’s suffering. Better self-care, coping techniques, and other alternatives may help, but may not bring enough relief or recovery necessary to function effectively and feel good. We perform thorough evaluations and have a discussion with you to determine if medication would be helpful or advised. Each person’s comfort level is respected and nothing is prescribed that goes against your willingness or readiness.
(651) 564-8254 View (651) 564-8254
Photo of Kelly Grossman, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Grossman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I see patients of all backgrounds and past diagnoses across the lifespan. I possess the skills to assess, diagnose and treat mental health disorders. I am passionate about offering an empathetic, non-judgmental environment with unconditional positive regard for every person. I focus on building strong therapeutic relationships with patients, collaborating with them to create personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I see patients of all backgrounds and past diagnoses across the lifespan. I possess the skills to assess, diagnose and treat mental health disorders. I am passionate about offering an empathetic, non-judgmental environment with unconditional positive regard for every person. I focus on building strong therapeutic relationships with patients, collaborating with them to create personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
(651) 314-8816 View (651) 314-8816

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Joanne Howden-Rich, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joanne Howden-Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55424
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.
(763) 951-1277 View (763) 951-1277
Photo of Cassie Renee Rider, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassie Renee Rider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Cassie Rider is a Telehealth-only provider that specializes in chemical dependency and mental health concerns. Cassie is also a MAT service provider for Suboxone. Cassie is the Owner and founder of Faith Forward Psychiatry which is licensed to practice in Minnesota and is currently accepting new patients >16 years old.
Cassie Rider is a Telehealth-only provider that specializes in chemical dependency and mental health concerns. Cassie is also a MAT service provider for Suboxone. Cassie is the Owner and founder of Faith Forward Psychiatry which is licensed to practice in Minnesota and is currently accepting new patients >16 years old.
(651) 615-8006 View (651) 615-8006
Photo of Michelle Trevino, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Trevino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in treating children, adolescents, and adults, I am uniquely positioned to serve a diverse clientele with compassion, cultural sensitivity, and linguistic proficiency. My clients encompass individuals from multicultural backgrounds, including Spanish-speaking communities, who seek support and understanding in navigating their mental health journeys.
As a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in treating children, adolescents, and adults, I am uniquely positioned to serve a diverse clientele with compassion, cultural sensitivity, and linguistic proficiency. My clients encompass individuals from multicultural backgrounds, including Spanish-speaking communities, who seek support and understanding in navigating their mental health journeys.
(952) 248-7140 View (952) 248-7140
Photo of Chris Mokongu, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chris Mokongu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to CJ Integrative Mental Health Care! I’m Chris Mokongu, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or other challenges, I am here to provide the support you deserve. At CJ Integrative Mental Health Care, mental health care isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about building a life where you can truly thrive. I offer personalized care, blending medication management, therapy, and holistic wellness to help you achieve lasting change.
Welcome to CJ Integrative Mental Health Care! I’m Chris Mokongu, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or other challenges, I am here to provide the support you deserve. At CJ Integrative Mental Health Care, mental health care isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about building a life where you can truly thrive. I offer personalized care, blending medication management, therapy, and holistic wellness to help you achieve lasting change.
(651) 877-6681 View (651) 877-6681
Photo of Ronald Omari - Holsoms TMS Mental Wellness Clinic, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holsoms TMS Mental Wellness Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, MN 55327
At Holsoms TMS wellness clinic, we employ a multi disciplinary approach in assisting our patients navigate their mental health challenges. This encompasses psychotherapy, TMS, nutrition education, and other supportive services. We pride in developing hope, encouraging change, and above all, creating a difference in our patients’ lives. Our mission is to revolutionize mental health care by providing compassionate, evidence-based treatments and eliminating stigma and ensuring everyone has access to the support they need. Depression, Anxiety, OCD Schizophrenia, Bipolar, PTSD Personality disorders, ADHD amongst other disorders.
At Holsoms TMS wellness clinic, we employ a multi disciplinary approach in assisting our patients navigate their mental health challenges. This encompasses psychotherapy, TMS, nutrition education, and other supportive services. We pride in developing hope, encouraging change, and above all, creating a difference in our patients’ lives. Our mission is to revolutionize mental health care by providing compassionate, evidence-based treatments and eliminating stigma and ensuring everyone has access to the support they need. Depression, Anxiety, OCD Schizophrenia, Bipolar, PTSD Personality disorders, ADHD amongst other disorders.
(763) 373-4388 View (763) 373-4388
Photo of Hilary Breedon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hilary Breedon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is deeply committed to improving their well-being but is currently facing significant emotional or psychological challenges. This client is likely to recognize the importance of mental health in their overall quality of life, but may be struggling with various obstacles or barriers to well-being.
My ideal client is someone who is deeply committed to improving their well-being but is currently facing significant emotional or psychological challenges. This client is likely to recognize the importance of mental health in their overall quality of life, but may be struggling with various obstacles or barriers to well-being.
(763) 317-0485 View (763) 317-0485
Photo of Daniel S. McCoy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel S. McCoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
All services are 100% via telepsychiatry and are currently available to patients residing in the states of Iowa, Minnesota, and New York!
All services are 100% via telepsychiatry and are currently available to patients residing in the states of Iowa, Minnesota, and New York!
(914) 218-6014 View (914) 218-6014
Photo of Helen Wood - Helen Wood, MD, PA, MD, Psychiatrist
Helen Wood, MD, PA
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
New appointment times are available starting in January, 2017. I look forward to working with patients that desire to improve their emotional and mental health and are motivated to take active steps toward achieving their recovery.
New appointment times are available starting in January, 2017. I look forward to working with patients that desire to improve their emotional and mental health and are motivated to take active steps toward achieving their recovery.
(952) 679-8836 View (952) 679-8836
Photo of Aicha Katty, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aicha Katty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is someone seeking holistic, personalized care to improve their mental and physical well-being. They may be struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges. Their needs include understanding their health, managing symptoms effectively, and achieving balance in their lives. Their goals often involve regaining control, enhancing their quality of life, and feeling empowered to take charge of their health journey. They want a provider who listens, collaborates, and offers clear guidance to help them reach their full potential.
My ideal client is someone seeking holistic, personalized care to improve their mental and physical well-being. They may be struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges. Their needs include understanding their health, managing symptoms effectively, and achieving balance in their lives. Their goals often involve regaining control, enhancing their quality of life, and feeling empowered to take charge of their health journey. They want a provider who listens, collaborates, and offers clear guidance to help them reach their full potential.
(651) 374-9272 View (651) 374-9272
Photo of Joseph Desrosier - Desrosier Medical Services, Psychiatrist
Desrosier Medical Services
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Stop scrolling and start getting better. I can see you within a week over the phone or video and provide you with excellent evaluation with customized treatment recommendations to improve your health. All the quality of care with convenient video or telephone care. No medication restrictions(FL). I want to partner with you so that you may live the life you want. My approach is detailed assessment and treatment planning with Psychiatric medication and brief psychotherapy/motivational interviewing. The goal would be to save you time and money with stability. Ideally once stable we could meet once a year if possible.
Stop scrolling and start getting better. I can see you within a week over the phone or video and provide you with excellent evaluation with customized treatment recommendations to improve your health. All the quality of care with convenient video or telephone care. No medication restrictions(FL). I want to partner with you so that you may live the life you want. My approach is detailed assessment and treatment planning with Psychiatric medication and brief psychotherapy/motivational interviewing. The goal would be to save you time and money with stability. Ideally once stable we could meet once a year if possible.
Photo of Anisa Mohamed, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anisa Mohamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Patients with mental health disorder struggle to be heard, respected and receive optimal holistic care. Thus, my goal is to provide culturally informed mental health care in populations across the lifespan for acute and chronic psychiatric disorders.
Patients with mental health disorder struggle to be heard, respected and receive optimal holistic care. Thus, my goal is to provide culturally informed mental health care in populations across the lifespan for acute and chronic psychiatric disorders.
(507) 522-5890 View (507) 522-5890
Photo of Jeanne Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeanne Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
In my 36 years of work with individuals, clinicians and students, I am convinced that sorting through feelings of pain, distress or numbness, is best helped by exploring these difficulties with a reflective partner who understands the preciousness of opening up. This partnership can discover and illuminate parts of you, which enhances the unique interplay of your thoughts, feelings and experiences. These discoveries help you develop better tools for a richer life. Private pay. I am a Graduate of Rush Medical School, Northwestern University Medical School-Psychiatry and the Institute for Psychoanalysis- Chicago.
In my 36 years of work with individuals, clinicians and students, I am convinced that sorting through feelings of pain, distress or numbness, is best helped by exploring these difficulties with a reflective partner who understands the preciousness of opening up. This partnership can discover and illuminate parts of you, which enhances the unique interplay of your thoughts, feelings and experiences. These discoveries help you develop better tools for a richer life. Private pay. I am a Graduate of Rush Medical School, Northwestern University Medical School-Psychiatry and the Institute for Psychoanalysis- Chicago.
(952) 388-2364 View (952) 388-2364
Photo of Oreoluwa Oye, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oreoluwa Oye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner who obtained a Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee Knoxville-Health Sciences in 2016. With over 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, while integrating a specialized 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 who obtained a Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee Knoxville-Health Sciences in 2016. With over 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, while integrating a specialized 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.
(952) 800-9258 View (952) 800-9258
Photo of Taiwo Oguntade - Better Days Psychiatry, PMHNP, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Better Days Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Tai Oguntade. I am a board certified PMHNP. Most mental health clients may be dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychiatric disorders, struggling with addiction, and seeking recovery. They are also dealing with behavioral issues such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia and lifestyle concerns such as poor sleep hygiene. At Better Days Psychiatry LLC, I build trust through shared interests, align future goals, address emotional needs, provide holistic care, and foster a collaborative environment. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their mental health goals and improve their overall quality of life.
My name is Tai Oguntade. I am a board certified PMHNP. Most mental health clients may be dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychiatric disorders, struggling with addiction, and seeking recovery. They are also dealing with behavioral issues such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia and lifestyle concerns such as poor sleep hygiene. At Better Days Psychiatry LLC, I build trust through shared interests, align future goals, address emotional needs, provide holistic care, and foster a collaborative environment. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their mental health goals and improve their overall quality of life.
(320) 335-5952 View (320) 335-5952
Photo of Dr. Kristin Hanson, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kristin Hanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rosemount, MN 55068
Dr. Hanson offers psychiatric medication management to clients of all ages. Treatment plans are individualized to meet clients’ needs and can include medication, supplements, referrals to specific therapies, and lifestyle modification.
Dr. Hanson offers psychiatric medication management to clients of all ages. Treatment plans are individualized to meet clients’ needs and can include medication, supplements, referrals to specific therapies, and lifestyle modification.
(651) 505-8449 View (651) 505-8449
Photo of Sheila Dunn, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Dunn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 6+ years of critical care experience from working in the Intensive Care Unit. It is there, where I discovered my interest in psychiatry and realized just how under-served the mental health population is. My compassion for others coupled with my interest in psychiatry is what prompted me to pursue my degree as a nurse practitioner. My goal is get patients back to living life the way they did before they were affected by mental illness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 6+ years of critical care experience from working in the Intensive Care Unit. It is there, where I discovered my interest in psychiatry and realized just how under-served the mental health population is. My compassion for others coupled with my interest in psychiatry is what prompted me to pursue my degree as a nurse practitioner. My goal is get patients back to living life the way they did before they were affected by mental illness.
(507) 204-9465 View (507) 204-9465

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 55114

< 10

Psychiatrists in 55114 who prioritize treating:

100% ADHD
75% Depression
75% Anxiety
75% Eating Disorders
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Autism
75% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medica

How Psychiatrists in 55114 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 55114?

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.