Psychiatrists in 55130

Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55130
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.

Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.

Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.

“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.

Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

At Innovative Psychological Consultants, we know that taking the first step is always the hardest. When we have been struggling for some time, it can be hard to imagine that anything can help. Finding relief is very possible if you are willing to reach for it. We are here to help you and want to see you be successful and feeling better. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, panic attacks, and much more are all effectively treated with medication management.
At Innovative Psychological Consultants, we know that taking the first step is always the hardest. When we have been struggling for some time, it can be hard to imagine that anything can help. Finding relief is very possible if you are willing to reach for it. We are here to help you and want to see you be successful and feeling better. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, panic attacks, and much more are all effectively treated with medication management.

Looking for a clinician who is warm, funny (ok, hilarious), experienced, & will be completely real with you? Considering psychiatric medication for the first time? Have complex physical and mental health symptoms that require specialty expertise? Oh, and did you forget to mention that you also want someone who takes your insurance plan and can quickly get you in for a first appointment? Well... today is your lucky day! I'm Amy, and I'm so glad our paths are crossing right now. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders, I think I may be able to help.
Looking for a clinician who is warm, funny (ok, hilarious), experienced, & will be completely real with you? Considering psychiatric medication for the first time? Have complex physical and mental health symptoms that require specialty expertise? Oh, and did you forget to mention that you also want someone who takes your insurance plan and can quickly get you in for a first appointment? Well... today is your lucky day! I'm Amy, and I'm so glad our paths are crossing right now. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders, I think I may be able to help.

At Innovative Psychological Consultants we know there are always ways to feel better. People can't control their genetics and body chemistry on their own. Issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and others all have a basis in physiology and brain chemistry. With the right diagnosis, we can find the right tools to bring your chemistry into alignment and give you the relief you are seeking. Mental health issues are not a personal weakness and nothing to be ashamed of; or suffer with. Let's work together to find a solution.
At Innovative Psychological Consultants we know there are always ways to feel better. People can't control their genetics and body chemistry on their own. Issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and others all have a basis in physiology and brain chemistry. With the right diagnosis, we can find the right tools to bring your chemistry into alignment and give you the relief you are seeking. Mental health issues are not a personal weakness and nothing to be ashamed of; or suffer with. Let's work together to find a solution.

Laura Huff-Johnson, PMHNP, practices in Minnesota and provides compassionate and evidence-based care to adolescents and adults. Specializing in medication management for mental health and substance use concerns, Laura is dedicated to helping patients regain stability and achieve their wellness goals. Her expertise includes supporting individuals recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals or navigating court-ordered treatments and legal matters, ensuring they receive the care and understanding they need during challenging times.
Laura Huff-Johnson, PMHNP, practices in Minnesota and provides compassionate and evidence-based care to adolescents and adults. Specializing in medication management for mental health and substance use concerns, Laura is dedicated to helping patients regain stability and achieve their wellness goals. Her expertise includes supporting individuals recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals or navigating court-ordered treatments and legal matters, ensuring they receive the care and understanding they need during challenging times.

My professional ambition is to create a stigma free, collaborative environment where my patients can feel comfortable and respected. Communication between provider and client is paramount in achieving the ultimate goal, your mental well-being. Whether it’s lifestyle changes, therapeutic techniques, or medication management, I will tailor your treatment to align with your personal vision of a healthy life. This is never a “one size fits all” approach as our minds are all created in diverse and unique ways. Often, adjustments are needed to identify the best approach to realize the most optimal treatment plan.
My professional ambition is to create a stigma free, collaborative environment where my patients can feel comfortable and respected. Communication between provider and client is paramount in achieving the ultimate goal, your mental well-being. Whether it’s lifestyle changes, therapeutic techniques, or medication management, I will tailor your treatment to align with your personal vision of a healthy life. This is never a “one size fits all” approach as our minds are all created in diverse and unique ways. Often, adjustments are needed to identify the best approach to realize the most optimal treatment plan.

As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and clinical professional counselor, I use a biopsychosocial approach to provide comprehensive services that meet patients' complex needs. I use a teamwork approach with patients, and I believe that building supportive relationships is of utmost importance. I value straightforward communication and provide patients with clear information and options. Although patients often find medication useful in managing their symptoms, I also help patients make other positive changes in their lives to improve their wellness. I want all patients to experience genuine care and interest from me.
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and clinical professional counselor, I use a biopsychosocial approach to provide comprehensive services that meet patients' complex needs. I use a teamwork approach with patients, and I believe that building supportive relationships is of utmost importance. I value straightforward communication and provide patients with clear information and options. Although patients often find medication useful in managing their symptoms, I also help patients make other positive changes in their lives to improve their wellness. I want all patients to experience genuine care and interest from me.

Tami L Kittleson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
As a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I aim to create holistic treatment plans that are both practical and personalized to your specific health needs. My goal is to empower you to take an active role in your health journey, as this is crucial to achieving the best possible outcomes. I believe that wellness is a multifaceted intersection of physical, mental, and emotional health. Factors such as diet, physical activity, daily habits, relationships, gut health, mindfulness, and meditation are all essential in promoting overall well-being. My role is to assist you throughout the process, providing support and guidance
As a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I aim to create holistic treatment plans that are both practical and personalized to your specific health needs. My goal is to empower you to take an active role in your health journey, as this is crucial to achieving the best possible outcomes. I believe that wellness is a multifaceted intersection of physical, mental, and emotional health. Factors such as diet, physical activity, daily habits, relationships, gut health, mindfulness, and meditation are all essential in promoting overall well-being. My role is to assist you throughout the process, providing support and guidance

My website is mentalhealthmeds.org. You can self-schedule on the website. If you are considering medications, I can help with this decision. I know how badly mental health symptoms can feel. In 2010, I had a serious depressive episode; it so affected me that I changed my career path. The cause of mental illness is not yet fully understood. It is thought that both biology and stress can contribute to the development of mental illness symptoms. I have been told my greatest strength is my ability to listen and hear what is being said.
My website is mentalhealthmeds.org. You can self-schedule on the website. If you are considering medications, I can help with this decision. I know how badly mental health symptoms can feel. In 2010, I had a serious depressive episode; it so affected me that I changed my career path. The cause of mental illness is not yet fully understood. It is thought that both biology and stress can contribute to the development of mental illness symptoms. I have been told my greatest strength is my ability to listen and hear what is being said.

Sarah Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) offering medication management services to children (ages 6+), adolescents, and adults. Life brings with it many challenges. Working together, I will help you gain a deeper understanding of how these challenges are impacting your life, and work with you on solutions to help you thrive.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) offering medication management services to children (ages 6+), adolescents, and adults. Life brings with it many challenges. Working together, I will help you gain a deeper understanding of how these challenges are impacting your life, and work with you on solutions to help you thrive.

Kayla E Nowak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I am passionate about providing patient centered care. I enjoys education and being a life-long learner. My clinical interests encompass a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders, and substance abuse disorders. With a diverse clinical background and experience in treating patients in various settings, I focus on integrating traditional psychiatric treatments with complementary approaches. This allows me to provide my patients with the best tools possible to achieve their goals.
I am passionate about providing patient centered care. I enjoys education and being a life-long learner. My clinical interests encompass a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders, and substance abuse disorders. With a diverse clinical background and experience in treating patients in various settings, I focus on integrating traditional psychiatric treatments with complementary approaches. This allows me to provide my patients with the best tools possible to achieve their goals.

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.

Welcome to Ascend Psychiatry! We're thrilled to be a part of your journey towards better mental health. Our practice is built on the belief that everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their mental well-being. We understand that reaching out for help can be a big step, and we're here to make the process as comfortable and inviting as possible. At Ascend, we're dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your individual needs. Whether you're navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or simply seeking guidance and support, our compassionate team is here to listen and work with you.
Welcome to Ascend Psychiatry! We're thrilled to be a part of your journey towards better mental health. Our practice is built on the belief that everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their mental well-being. We understand that reaching out for help can be a big step, and we're here to make the process as comfortable and inviting as possible. At Ascend, we're dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your individual needs. Whether you're navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or simply seeking guidance and support, our compassionate team is here to listen and work with you.

For those patients stuck in a cycle of not feeling fully alive and simply trying to solve one problem after another, we would work together to find the underlying issue. These roots are often embedded in familial relationships. Those individuals who are able to look at this facet of their life, would likely find the best fit with my practice.
For those patients stuck in a cycle of not feeling fully alive and simply trying to solve one problem after another, we would work together to find the underlying issue. These roots are often embedded in familial relationships. Those individuals who are able to look at this facet of their life, would likely find the best fit with my practice.

Welcome to the practice of Dr. Mary Beth Lardizabal at Clarity Group. I currently am limiting my practice to physician coaching and addressing mental health needs of health care professionals. I care deeply about my physician colleagues and have a passion for supporting physicians during these difficult times. I have many years of leadership experience and supporting, coaching and mentoring physicians in a large health care system.
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Mary Beth Lardizabal at Clarity Group. I currently am limiting my practice to physician coaching and addressing mental health needs of health care professionals. I care deeply about my physician colleagues and have a passion for supporting physicians during these difficult times. I have many years of leadership experience and supporting, coaching and mentoring physicians in a large health care system.

Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
See more therapy options for 55130
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 55130
< 10
Psychiatrists in 55130 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 55130 see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 55130?
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.