Psychiatrists in 55124

Nexus of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 name is Patrick Schoenecker, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Minneapolis, MN and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults 18 and up and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, substance abuse, and trauma. My approach to medication management varies based on the needs of each client I work with. While medications are often helpful, they are not the only treatment option. Educating clients regarding available treatment options including interventional psychiatry is an essential part of my practice.
My name is Patrick Schoenecker, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Minneapolis, MN and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults 18 and up and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, substance abuse, and trauma. My approach to medication management varies based on the needs of each client I work with. While medications are often helpful, they are not the only treatment option. Educating clients regarding available treatment options including interventional psychiatry is an essential part of my practice.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am currently licensed in Minnesota, Texas, & Washington. I have over 11 + years of inpatient and outpatient nursing experience in various healthcare settings, including psychiatric, medical-surgical/telemetry, emergency room, oncology, progressive care, orthopedic, home health, rehab, community health, nursing home (LTC & TCU), etc. I earned my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. I specialized in Psych Med Management, evaluation, Prescription / Refill, Med Review, and Follow-up for individuals across the lifespan. I work with adults,
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am currently licensed in Minnesota, Texas, & Washington. I have over 11 + years of inpatient and outpatient nursing experience in various healthcare settings, including psychiatric, medical-surgical/telemetry, emergency room, oncology, progressive care, orthopedic, home health, rehab, community health, nursing home (LTC & TCU), etc. I earned my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. I specialized in Psych Med Management, evaluation, Prescription / Refill, Med Review, and Follow-up for individuals across the lifespan. I work with adults,

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.

John E. Harrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•

Hello, I'm Chandra. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Minnesota and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently available to see ages 16-65 for medication management services related to Mood disorders like Depression and Bipolar, Anxiety disorders like Generalized anxiety and OCD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder and psychotic disorders. I also do some mindful therapy with Binge Eating Disorder in addition to brief psychotherapy and psychoeducation during medication management appointments.
Hello, I'm Chandra. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Minnesota and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently available to see ages 16-65 for medication management services related to Mood disorders like Depression and Bipolar, Anxiety disorders like Generalized anxiety and OCD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder and psychotic disorders. I also do some mindful therapy with Binge Eating Disorder in addition to brief psychotherapy and psychoeducation during medication management appointments.

Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare provides a comprehensive service for individuals with a variety of psychiatric and psychological problems. The mission of our company is to provide top-notch patient-centered services to individuals with mental health needs in a dignifying and compassionate manner. We are committed to excellence in helping our patients improve the quality of their lives in a timely manner. We welcome new patients and are always happy to accept referrals from various sources. We provide assessments and evaluations of mental illnesses, Crisis management, Medication management, Individual and group psychotherapy (talking through problems).
Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare provides a comprehensive service for individuals with a variety of psychiatric and psychological problems. The mission of our company is to provide top-notch patient-centered services to individuals with mental health needs in a dignifying and compassionate manner. We are committed to excellence in helping our patients improve the quality of their lives in a timely manner. We welcome new patients and are always happy to accept referrals from various sources. We provide assessments and evaluations of mental illnesses, Crisis management, Medication management, Individual and group psychotherapy (talking through problems).

I believe everyone needs someone who listens and validates their feelings, emotions and concerns and someone who is empathetic and believes in their potentials and dreams. Most especially, as a client, I will want a provider who treats me as a unique individual, with specific needs and wants.
I believe everyone needs someone who listens and validates their feelings, emotions and concerns and someone who is empathetic and believes in their potentials and dreams. Most especially, as a client, I will want a provider who treats me as a unique individual, with specific needs and wants.

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.
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.

With 14 years of dedicated experience in psychiatry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to my work. My commitment to patient care is characterized by a unique blend of perspectives, fostering an environment that is caring, inviting, and welcoming. I strive to provide comprehensive support, ensuring each individual receives personalized attention and effective treatment tailored to their needs.
With 14 years of dedicated experience in psychiatry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to my work. My commitment to patient care is characterized by a unique blend of perspectives, fostering an environment that is caring, inviting, and welcoming. I strive to provide comprehensive support, ensuring each individual receives personalized attention and effective treatment tailored to their needs.
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Hi, I am Felicia Ikebude, a psychiatric and Mental health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP) practicing Telehealth in Minnesota. I see patients six years of age and older mostly for the medication management of their psychiatric illnesses. I worked as a registered nurse for more than 15 years and as a family nurse practitioner since 2014 before getting my psychiatric and mental health nurse certification. My life and professional experiences have given me the needed tools to care for all my patients with compassion and dignity.
Hi, I am Felicia Ikebude, a psychiatric and Mental health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP) practicing Telehealth in Minnesota. I see patients six years of age and older mostly for the medication management of their psychiatric illnesses. I worked as a registered nurse for more than 15 years and as a family nurse practitioner since 2014 before getting my psychiatric and mental health nurse certification. My life and professional experiences have given me the needed tools to care for all my patients with compassion and dignity.

Thelma Mahya Browne-Kaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As your provider, I conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and offer psychotherapy and psychopharmacology management to help you lead your best life. I approach my role as a friend, helping you understand your symptoms and diagnoses. My practice is centered on providing safe, empathetic, and patient-centric mental healthcare to children, adolescents, and adults. To achieve your healthcare goals, I follow evidence-based guidelines, complemented by my extensive clinical experience, personal observations, and intuition.
As your provider, I conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and offer psychotherapy and psychopharmacology management to help you lead your best life. I approach my role as a friend, helping you understand your symptoms and diagnoses. My practice is centered on providing safe, empathetic, and patient-centric mental healthcare to children, adolescents, and adults. To achieve your healthcare goals, I follow evidence-based guidelines, complemented by my extensive clinical experience, personal observations, and intuition.

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

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.

Welcome! I’m Chris Mokongu, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to individuals seeking support on their mental health journey. With a deep commitment to understanding and helping you navigate your challenges, I offer a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. I received my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree from the University of North Dakota and am licensed in Minnesota, Oregon, and North Dakota.
Welcome! I’m Chris Mokongu, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to individuals seeking support on their mental health journey. With a deep commitment to understanding and helping you navigate your challenges, I offer a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. I received my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree from the University of North Dakota and am licensed in Minnesota, Oregon, and North Dakota.

My name is Nasro Ahmed, I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC), also certified in Family Nurse Practice (FNP-C) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-C). I am deeply committed to supporting clients through challenging times, celebrating their successes, and helping them overcome obstacles. My approach to care focuses on treating clients holistically, addressing both physical and mental health needs. My goal is to create a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings while fostering skills for long-term coping and resilience.
My name is Nasro Ahmed, I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC), also certified in Family Nurse Practice (FNP-C) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-C). I am deeply committed to supporting clients through challenging times, celebrating their successes, and helping them overcome obstacles. My approach to care focuses on treating clients holistically, addressing both physical and mental health needs. My goal is to create a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings while fostering skills for long-term coping and resilience.

Hi! I am Katlyn Bowman, Doctorate in Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Yes, it's a mouthful. I believe in meeting people wherever they are in their path towards better wellness. Our sessions usually consistent of checking in on current life stressors/events, lifestyle modifications, and medications. I often use a patient-centered care model and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. I truly believe it is important for patients to understand why they feel how they do, what we can do about it, and how we can help move towards better wellness.
Hi! I am Katlyn Bowman, Doctorate in Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Yes, it's a mouthful. I believe in meeting people wherever they are in their path towards better wellness. Our sessions usually consistent of checking in on current life stressors/events, lifestyle modifications, and medications. I often use a patient-centered care model and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. I truly believe it is important for patients to understand why they feel how they do, what we can do about it, and how we can help move towards better wellness.

Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.

Welcome! My name is Melissa Buss, I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I possess the skills and expertise to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders. With over a decade of expertise, I have served as an outpatient clinician in Minnesota addressing the mental health needs of individuals in rural settings.
Welcome! My name is Melissa Buss, I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I possess the skills and expertise to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders. With over a decade of expertise, I have served as an outpatient clinician in Minnesota addressing the mental health needs of individuals in rural settings.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 55124
20+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in 55124 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
87% | ADHD |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | Aetna |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 55124 see their clients
86% | Online Only | |
14% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 55124?
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.