Psychiatrists in 55408

Photo of Dr. Lyuba Megits, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Lyuba Megits
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
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.
(612) 712-5458 View (612) 712-5458
Photo of Gerard Balan - Telemental Associates, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Telemental Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Are you feeling the weight of a demanding career, the academic demands of school, or the general stresses of everyday life? If you or your loved ones, aged 12 and up, are navigating the challenges of ADHD, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to extend a helping hand. My name is Gerard Balan, a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner who understands you need mental health support that adapts to your lifestyle. With our services, you'll find discrete, effective care without having to step away from your work, school, or personal commitments.
Are you feeling the weight of a demanding career, the academic demands of school, or the general stresses of everyday life? If you or your loved ones, aged 12 and up, are navigating the challenges of ADHD, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to extend a helping hand. My name is Gerard Balan, a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner who understands you need mental health support that adapts to your lifestyle. With our services, you'll find discrete, effective care without having to step away from your work, school, or personal commitments.
(612) 314-8967 View (612) 314-8967
Photo of Lisa Ann Miles, APNP, CNM, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Ann Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, CNM, RN
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
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.
(612) 445-4239 View (612) 445-4239
Photo of Ethan Hamilton, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ethan Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Ethan is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in various mental health settings including inpatient, emergency care, and outpatient clinic. Ethan is committed to welcoming patients of all backgrounds and helping them achieve their goals for wellness through evidence-based treatment options.
Ethan is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in various mental health settings including inpatient, emergency care, and outpatient clinic. Ethan is committed to welcoming patients of all backgrounds and helping them achieve their goals for wellness through evidence-based treatment options.
(612) 887-2502 x3 View (612) 887-2502 x3
Photo of Dr. Jose Rengifo, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jose Rengifo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Not accepting new clients
Dr Rengifo is a Harvard trained board-certified psychiatrist who has expertise in medical education and diagnosing & treatment of various psychiatric conditions in adults. He completed his education at Cornell University and Rush Medical College as well as completing a psychiatry residency at Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School. Most recently, he has an appointment as Clinical Assistant Professor in Psychiatry through Brown Medical School in Providence, RI with several teaching awards. Dr Rengifo brings a passion for teaching and excellent beside manner to all his patients.
Dr Rengifo is a Harvard trained board-certified psychiatrist who has expertise in medical education and diagnosing & treatment of various psychiatric conditions in adults. He completed his education at Cornell University and Rush Medical College as well as completing a psychiatry residency at Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School. Most recently, he has an appointment as Clinical Assistant Professor in Psychiatry through Brown Medical School in Providence, RI with several teaching awards. Dr Rengifo brings a passion for teaching and excellent beside manner to all his patients.
(612) 482-7011 View (612) 482-7011
Photo of Joanna Ramirez, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joanna Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take pride in listening to people’s stories and learning who they are as an individual. I am committed to utilizing culturally competent, person-centered, holistic, trauma-informed approach to treat clients. My goal is to develop a trusting relationship with clients so that clients can actively participate in the development and implementation of an individualized treatment plan that fits their needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take pride in listening to people’s stories and learning who they are as an individual. I am committed to utilizing culturally competent, person-centered, holistic, trauma-informed approach to treat clients. My goal is to develop a trusting relationship with clients so that clients can actively participate in the development and implementation of an individualized treatment plan that fits their needs.
(612) 712-9238 View (612) 712-9238
Photo of Jamie Lynn Baso, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Lynn Baso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I utilize a non-judgmental and patient centered approach. Rather than a collection of diagnoses, I view you as a whole person and will individualize your care based on your needs. I appreciate your cultural and personal values and will incorporate them into your plan of care. I will meet you where your mental health needs exist and together, we will find a solution. I provide medication management for adults and have special interest in PTSD, postpartum, mood and anxiety disorders. I am also interested in discussing with you, alternative modalities that may be helpful in supporting your healing.
I utilize a non-judgmental and patient centered approach. Rather than a collection of diagnoses, I view you as a whole person and will individualize your care based on your needs. I appreciate your cultural and personal values and will incorporate them into your plan of care. I will meet you where your mental health needs exist and together, we will find a solution. I provide medication management for adults and have special interest in PTSD, postpartum, mood and anxiety disorders. I am also interested in discussing with you, alternative modalities that may be helpful in supporting your healing.
(612) 682-1621 View (612) 682-1621
Photo of Susie Haffner, DNP, CNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susie Haffner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Susie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience working with children, adolescents, and families in the outpatient setting. She is able to assess, diagnose, and provide medication management services to treat various mental health disorders. It is important to her to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for all while providing culturally competent care to underserved populations in her community. She enjoys empowering clients and their families by encouraging participation and providing education.
Susie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience working with children, adolescents, and families in the outpatient setting. She is able to assess, diagnose, and provide medication management services to treat various mental health disorders. It is important to her to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for all while providing culturally competent care to underserved populations in her community. She enjoys empowering clients and their families by encouraging participation and providing education.
(612) 979-1151 View (612) 979-1151
Photo of Jill Moran, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jill Moran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with seven years of experience in psychiatry and medication management. I've had the privilege of helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds overcome a variety of mental health challenges stabilizing symptoms to promote improvement in daily functioning. Throughout my career, I've become increasingly passionate about the importance of accessible mental health care. I firmly believe that everyone should have access to high-quality mental health services, regardless of their age, socioeconomic status, or lifestyle.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with seven years of experience in psychiatry and medication management. I've had the privilege of helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds overcome a variety of mental health challenges stabilizing symptoms to promote improvement in daily functioning. Throughout my career, I've become increasingly passionate about the importance of accessible mental health care. I firmly believe that everyone should have access to high-quality mental health services, regardless of their age, socioeconomic status, or lifestyle.
(763) 247-8341 View (763) 247-8341
Photo of Molly Paxton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Molly Paxton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
The best mental health care occurs when the patient's needs are prioritized and deeply integrated into the treatment plan. Whether you're dealing with anxious thoughts, phobias, learning difficulties, physical symptoms tied to mental health, depression, grief, or feeling like a dark cloud is always blocking out your light, help is available. By creating a judgment-free environment that fosters safe and open communication, we’ll work together to carefully assess your or your loved one’s unique situation and develop the most effective care plan.
The best mental health care occurs when the patient's needs are prioritized and deeply integrated into the treatment plan. Whether you're dealing with anxious thoughts, phobias, learning difficulties, physical symptoms tied to mental health, depression, grief, or feeling like a dark cloud is always blocking out your light, help is available. By creating a judgment-free environment that fosters safe and open communication, we’ll work together to carefully assess your or your loved one’s unique situation and develop the most effective care plan.
(763) 319-0319 View (763) 319-0319
Photo of Cody Knisley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cody Knisley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
I am a hard working, dedicated, problem solver whose only goal is to try to be better each and every day. I want to work with you and support you through whatever it is you may be needing at the time. Whether it be dealing with some anxiety, going through a difficult adjustment in your life, or something more chronic, I want to work with you to help put forth the best version of yourself.
I am a hard working, dedicated, problem solver whose only goal is to try to be better each and every day. I want to work with you and support you through whatever it is you may be needing at the time. Whether it be dealing with some anxiety, going through a difficult adjustment in your life, or something more chronic, I want to work with you to help put forth the best version of yourself.
(980) 980-2343 View (980) 980-2343
Photo of Denay Kelly, FNP-C, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denay Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Denay Kelly, your compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatric and hospital medicine. With a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, I've cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs. Throughout my career, I've embraced various pivotal roles that have allowed me to provide exceptional care in emergency situations and routine health management.
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Denay Kelly, your compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatric and hospital medicine. With a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, I've cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs. Throughout my career, I've embraced various pivotal roles that have allowed me to provide exceptional care in emergency situations and routine health management.
(904) 747-3169 View (904) 747-3169
Photo of Sharon Schultz, MS, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sharon Schultz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, CNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
You are more than just a mental health diagnosis. There is an underlying reason for mental health issues, often unexplored or unexplained. When these are recognized, the goal of treatment can be clarified and is often easier to accept. I am a nurse first and strive to see and treat the patient as a whole person. I have a special interest in working with clients with mental health issues and comorbid chronic pain. By addressing physical wellness and combining medication management with diet, exercise, and vitamin supplementation, I add a holistic approach to the treatment of mental health.
You are more than just a mental health diagnosis. There is an underlying reason for mental health issues, often unexplored or unexplained. When these are recognized, the goal of treatment can be clarified and is often easier to accept. I am a nurse first and strive to see and treat the patient as a whole person. I have a special interest in working with clients with mental health issues and comorbid chronic pain. By addressing physical wellness and combining medication management with diet, exercise, and vitamin supplementation, I add a holistic approach to the treatment of mental health.
(612) 230-8768 View (612) 230-8768
Photo of Allysa Jacobson, MS,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allysa Jacobson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Allysa Jacobson, PMHNP, is a dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health in Minnesota. She is committed to providing compassionate, highquality mental health care by partnering with her clients to create holistic and personcentered treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Allysa serves adults and seniors, addressing mental health challenges and promoting wellbeing across Minnesota. With a strong focus on anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, Allysa is passionate about helping clients navigate these complex conditions.
Allysa Jacobson, PMHNP, is a dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health in Minnesota. She is committed to providing compassionate, highquality mental health care by partnering with her clients to create holistic and personcentered treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Allysa serves adults and seniors, addressing mental health challenges and promoting wellbeing across Minnesota. With a strong focus on anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, Allysa is passionate about helping clients navigate these complex conditions.
(763) 878-6515 View (763) 878-6515
Photo of Rahma Sheikh-Dahir, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rahma Sheikh-Dahir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Mercy Sheikh-dahir is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. Mercy helps her clients by providing them the tools they need to overcome life's challenges. She utilizes a holistic approach to care by treating the individual as a whole person. In her free time, Mercy enjoys spending time with her baby niece and nephews, watching foreign films and doing anything related to self-care.
Mercy Sheikh-dahir is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. Mercy helps her clients by providing them the tools they need to overcome life's challenges. She utilizes a holistic approach to care by treating the individual as a whole person. In her free time, Mercy enjoys spending time with her baby niece and nephews, watching foreign films and doing anything related to self-care.
(612) 712-3297 View (612) 712-3297
Photo of Allysa Jacobson - LifeStance Health, CNP/PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP/PMH
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(833) 580-1145 View (833) 580-1145
Photo of Jacqueline Cooper, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Jackie Cooper is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of experience working in mental health. She's skilled in working with a variety of patient populations across the mental health care continuum and treats adults ages 18 and older. Jackie is passionate about helping people live their best lives and strives to provide care that is meaningful to each individual and fully involves each patient in their care.
Jackie Cooper is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of experience working in mental health. She's skilled in working with a variety of patient populations across the mental health care continuum and treats adults ages 18 and older. Jackie is passionate about helping people live their best lives and strives to provide care that is meaningful to each individual and fully involves each patient in their care.
(612) 482-2521 View (612) 482-2521
Photo of Kayla Kvell, DNP, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayla Kvell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Dr. Kayla Kvell is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations, hormone therapy, and medication management for adults. Her areas of special interest include ADHD; bipolar disorder and mood issues; postpartum depression, peri & postmenopausal symptoms; and metabolic/hormonal dysfunction and its impact on mental health. She uses an integrative approach to address and identify underlying causes of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Kayla Kvell is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations, hormone therapy, and medication management for adults. Her areas of special interest include ADHD; bipolar disorder and mood issues; postpartum depression, peri & postmenopausal symptoms; and metabolic/hormonal dysfunction and its impact on mental health. She uses an integrative approach to address and identify underlying causes of psychiatric conditions.
(651) 419-3554 View (651) 419-3554
Photo of Sarah Rossall, MPA, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Sarah Rossall
Physician Assistant, MPA, PA-C
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I provide psychiatric care using medication management. I have always been passionate about mental health and wellness. My special interests include bipolar disorder, trichotillomania (hair-pulling), dermatillomania (skin-picking), and working with clients who wish to taper off benzodiazepines using a tailored protocol to minimize withdrawal. I am Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) and can manage medications and mental health conditions during pregnancy, pre-pregnancy planning, and during the postpartum period (1 year after birth).
I provide psychiatric care using medication management. I have always been passionate about mental health and wellness. My special interests include bipolar disorder, trichotillomania (hair-pulling), dermatillomania (skin-picking), and working with clients who wish to taper off benzodiazepines using a tailored protocol to minimize withdrawal. I am Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) and can manage medications and mental health conditions during pregnancy, pre-pregnancy planning, and during the postpartum period (1 year after birth).
(952) 333-4279 View (952) 333-4279
Photo of Sam G Kpahn, DNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sam G Kpahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 441-2024 View (612) 441-2024

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 55408

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 55408 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
85% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
70% Medication Management
55% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
93% Optum
73% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 55408 see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 55408?

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.