Psychiatrists in 55125

Photo of Tamara Tew, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Tew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
Parenting a child and/or adolescent with a mental illness can be challenging and may require asking for help. Kids and teens are complex and often shut their parents out. They are fascinating beings whose lives can be severely disrupted by mental illness. My goal as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to provide assessments, medication management, and referrals to help the family get back on track and achieve balance.
Parenting a child and/or adolescent with a mental illness can be challenging and may require asking for help. Kids and teens are complex and often shut their parents out. They are fascinating beings whose lives can be severely disrupted by mental illness. My goal as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to provide assessments, medication management, and referrals to help the family get back on track and achieve balance.
(651) 376-2492 View (651) 376-2492
Photo of Ogechukwu Linda Ugwu - Ideal Perception Mental Health Services LLC, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ideal Perception Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, i adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives.
I exhibit a profound dedication to the well-being of my clients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and empathy in my practice. With a keen understanding of the intricate interplay between biology and psychology, i adeptly navigate the complexities of mental health treatment, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives.
(651) 409-5429 View (651) 409-5429
Photo of Shalene Kennedy, MD, Psychiatrist
Shalene Kennedy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist that specializes in children and adolescents with a special interest in medically complex cases. My practice is primarily with those enrolled in the Aris Clinic –Woodwinds Intensive Outpatient Program for adolescents. I place great importance on a team approach to providing care to ensure that a patient’s biological, psychological and social issues are all addressed in an interconnected way. The benefits of nutrition, sleep and exercise are also included in my treatment approach.
I am a board certified psychiatrist that specializes in children and adolescents with a special interest in medically complex cases. My practice is primarily with those enrolled in the Aris Clinic –Woodwinds Intensive Outpatient Program for adolescents. I place great importance on a team approach to providing care to ensure that a patient’s biological, psychological and social issues are all addressed in an interconnected way. The benefits of nutrition, sleep and exercise are also included in my treatment approach.
(651) 349-4698 View (651) 349-4698
Photo of Grace Modina, DNP, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Grace Modina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I believe strongly in meeting clients and families where they are and working as a team to create effective and individualized treatment plans. Mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all and I enjoy collaborating with clients to find solutions and resources that fit in with their unique needs. I strive to provide a safe space for clients and families where they can feel accepted and heard.
I believe strongly in meeting clients and families where they are and working as a team to create effective and individualized treatment plans. Mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all and I enjoy collaborating with clients to find solutions and resources that fit in with their unique needs. I strive to provide a safe space for clients and families where they can feel accepted and heard.
(651) 661-4306 View (651) 661-4306
Photo of Dr. Dina M Stewart, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Dina M Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to help you lead a hopeful, fulfilling life. I see adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, alcohol use, psychotic disorders, neurocognitive disorders, ASD, dementia. You will feel heard and validated when you see me. New Office - Starting 2025! See me through the new practice - Dina Stewart PMHNP. Office located in Woodbury.
My goal is to help you lead a hopeful, fulfilling life. I see adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, alcohol use, psychotic disorders, neurocognitive disorders, ASD, dementia. You will feel heard and validated when you see me. New Office - Starting 2025! See me through the new practice - Dina Stewart PMHNP. Office located in Woodbury.
(651) 409-4512 View (651) 409-4512
Photo of Tim W Horton, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tim W Horton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
If you or your child has anxiety, ADHD, or emotional challenges, I’m here to help. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management tailored to the unique needs of kids, teens, and young adults. My holistic approach considers emotional and social factors to ensure we find the most effective, minimal intervention. What sets me apart is knowing the subtle differences of psychiatric medications and applying this deep understanding to help. I’m committed to being more than just a prescriber—I’m here to offer compassionate, personalized care, with a special focus on inclusive support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you or your child has anxiety, ADHD, or emotional challenges, I’m here to help. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management tailored to the unique needs of kids, teens, and young adults. My holistic approach considers emotional and social factors to ensure we find the most effective, minimal intervention. What sets me apart is knowing the subtle differences of psychiatric medications and applying this deep understanding to help. I’m committed to being more than just a prescriber—I’m here to offer compassionate, personalized care, with a special focus on inclusive support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
(651) 240-6834 View (651) 240-6834
Photo of Elvis T Starllone, PMHNP, CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elvis T Starllone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Hello all, whether you are new to mental health or have been searching for the right provider for a while, you are at the right place. It is my honor to meet you and work together to formulate an integrative and holistic plan that will promote wellness and a better outlook. My traits are team work, professionalism, customer service and flexibility. I see persons ages 6 to 80. I am particularly interested in substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, sleep issues and psychotic issues. As a veteran myself, I connect well with veterans, and members of the LGBTQ, refugees and immigrants are all welcomed.
Hello all, whether you are new to mental health or have been searching for the right provider for a while, you are at the right place. It is my honor to meet you and work together to formulate an integrative and holistic plan that will promote wellness and a better outlook. My traits are team work, professionalism, customer service and flexibility. I see persons ages 6 to 80. I am particularly interested in substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, sleep issues and psychotic issues. As a veteran myself, I connect well with veterans, and members of the LGBTQ, refugees and immigrants are all welcomed.
(651) 243-3064 View (651) 243-3064
Photo of Michelle Rowland, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Rowland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
Life can be a struggle for children and/or adolescents with mental health illnesses, as well as for their families. I have a passion for caring for children and adolescents with mental health diagnoses and I work with families to develop individualized treatment plans. My goal as a dual certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to provide diagnostic assessments, education, referrals, and medication management to improve the lives of my patients and their families.
Life can be a struggle for children and/or adolescents with mental health illnesses, as well as for their families. I have a passion for caring for children and adolescents with mental health diagnoses and I work with families to develop individualized treatment plans. My goal as a dual certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to provide diagnostic assessments, education, referrals, and medication management to improve the lives of my patients and their families.
(651) 358-2415 View (651) 358-2415
Photo of Asisat O Ashagbe, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Asisat O Ashagbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I specialize in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health symptoms to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia and various mental health concerns. If you are looking for a provider that listens to your problems and cares about helping you improve then you have found the right person to be trusted with your care.
I specialize in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health symptoms to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia and various mental health concerns. If you are looking for a provider that listens to your problems and cares about helping you improve then you have found the right person to be trusted with your care.
(651) 565-9434 View (651) 565-9434
Photo of Asisat Ashagbe - Hanan Health LLC, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hanan Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Hanan Health LLC seeks to help individuals struggling with mental health symptoms alleviate their concerns by assessing, diagnosing and finding the right treatment for their individual conditions. Specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other mental health concerns.
Hanan Health LLC seeks to help individuals struggling with mental health symptoms alleviate their concerns by assessing, diagnosing and finding the right treatment for their individual conditions. Specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other mental health concerns.
(952) 592-9801 View (952) 592-9801
Nels Kurt Langsten
Psychiatrist, M, D
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and therapist with 40 years experience. I am experienced in prescribing psychiatric medications but believe there is substantial evidence that the risks of most psychiatric medications are greater than the benefits. Abruptly stopping medication can cause serious withdrawal symptoms which reinforces the belief that people need to remain on medication indefinitely. My experience with thousands of patients has been that therapy has much more long term benefit than medications and that with good therapy most people can gradually taper off medications eventually. I have a sliding fee scale and accept most major insurance.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and therapist with 40 years experience. I am experienced in prescribing psychiatric medications but believe there is substantial evidence that the risks of most psychiatric medications are greater than the benefits. Abruptly stopping medication can cause serious withdrawal symptoms which reinforces the belief that people need to remain on medication indefinitely. My experience with thousands of patients has been that therapy has much more long term benefit than medications and that with good therapy most people can gradually taper off medications eventually. I have a sliding fee scale and accept most major insurance.
(646) 553-4082 View (646) 553-4082
Photo of Karen Fri Rih Reh - Nurtured Psychiatry Llc, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nurtured Psychiatry Llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
With years of experience in mental health care, I am committed to providing outstanding care. My goal is to deliver high-quality, personalized mental health services in a private, patient-centered setting. I have developed strong skills in diagnosis, therapy, and psychopharmacology, working with diverse populations to address a range of mental health issues. Through my LLC, I aim to foster a safe and supportive environment that empowers individuals to improve their mental health and well-being, while providing accessible care to underserved communities.
With years of experience in mental health care, I am committed to providing outstanding care. My goal is to deliver high-quality, personalized mental health services in a private, patient-centered setting. I have developed strong skills in diagnosis, therapy, and psychopharmacology, working with diverse populations to address a range of mental health issues. Through my LLC, I aim to foster a safe and supportive environment that empowers individuals to improve their mental health and well-being, while providing accessible care to underserved communities.
(651) 412-3578 View (651) 412-3578
Photo of Jordan Madden, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Madden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Calming Currents Psychiatry, owned and operated by Jordan Madden, is pleased to offer medication management services to teens and adults in Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Calming Currents Psychiatry, owned and operated by Jordan Madden, is pleased to offer medication management services to teens and adults in Wisconsin and Minnesota.
(715) 402-4562 View (715) 402-4562
Photo of Princess Gehyigon-Wallace, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Princess Gehyigon-Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Have you experienced some kind of trauma or emotional challenge, or perhaps have been struggling with a mental health issue for some time? Are you open to exploring your feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment, and be willing to work hard to create positive change? Do you have a desire to learn how to manage your emotions and create healthier relationships with yourself and others? Martha’s Open Hands can help you, your child, or loved one by creating an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based practice that is safe and effective.
Have you experienced some kind of trauma or emotional challenge, or perhaps have been struggling with a mental health issue for some time? Are you open to exploring your feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment, and be willing to work hard to create positive change? Do you have a desire to learn how to manage your emotions and create healthier relationships with yourself and others? Martha’s Open Hands can help you, your child, or loved one by creating an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based practice that is safe and effective.
(612) 482-0679 View (612) 482-0679
Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
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.
(612) 324-4110 View (612) 324-4110
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Minnesota patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Minnesota patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.
(651) 315-7493 View (651) 315-7493
Photo of Kali Saulsbury - BHSI, DNP, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BHSI
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
Dr. Kali Saulsbury (she/her) a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner works with children, adolescents, young adults, and women(<40) to address mental health concerns. Special interest in reproductive & perinatal psychiatry, PCOS care informed.
Dr. Kali Saulsbury (she/her) a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner works with children, adolescents, young adults, and women(<40) to address mental health concerns. Special interest in reproductive & perinatal psychiatry, PCOS care informed.
(651) 417-0556 View (651) 417-0556
Photo of Sky Espe, MSN, APRN, PHMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sky Espe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PHMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
I am a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who provides psychiatric assessment and medication management. I see patients across the lifespan, children through adults. I have a special interest and passion for being accessible and supporting people in neurodivergent, BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. I also really enjoy working with children and their families, and supporting them during times of change.
I am a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who provides psychiatric assessment and medication management. I see patients across the lifespan, children through adults. I have a special interest and passion for being accessible and supporting people in neurodivergent, BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. I also really enjoy working with children and their families, and supporting them during times of change.
View
Photo of Roseline Yang, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roseline Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
Now accepting new patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for individuals 16 and older, drawing from over a decade of psychiatric nursing experience across outpatient, acute, and inpatient settings. I understand how important it is to get the right help quickly, so I aim to minimize wait times for my patients. I treat a wide range of mental health concerns, with a special focus on depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Now accepting new patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for individuals 16 and older, drawing from over a decade of psychiatric nursing experience across outpatient, acute, and inpatient settings. I understand how important it is to get the right help quickly, so I aim to minimize wait times for my patients. I treat a wide range of mental health concerns, with a special focus on depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
(651) 565-9498 View (651) 565-9498

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(503) 836-5120 x2 View (503) 836-5120 x2

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 55125

10+

Average cost per session

$190

Psychiatrists in 55125 who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
89% Anxiety
84% ADHD
79% Medication Management
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Bipolar Disorder
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% UCare
76% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 55125 see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 55125?

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.