Psychiatrists in 55420

Photo of Asisat O Ashagbe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Asisat O Ashagbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Dr. Raphael Omoto - Metro Behavioral Consultants PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, DNP
Metro Behavioral Consultants PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, DNP
Serves Area
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or addiction? I understand how difficult it can be to find the right provider who truly listens, understands your concerns, and provides personalized care. My goal is to help you gain control over your mental health. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in diagnosis, medication management, therapy integration, and holistic mental health solutions. My approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and science-backed treatment to ensure you feel heard, respected, and supported on your healing journey.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or addiction? I understand how difficult it can be to find the right provider who truly listens, understands your concerns, and provides personalized care. My goal is to help you gain control over your mental health. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in diagnosis, medication management, therapy integration, and holistic mental health solutions. My approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and science-backed treatment to ensure you feel heard, respected, and supported on your healing journey.
(763) 296-2155 View (763) 296-2155

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Michael Omomo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michael Omomo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Michael Omomo. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I have over ten years’ experience in helping people with mental health conditions, I treat individuals from ages 6 years and above. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I believe in an integrated approach to care for individuals with mental health. The types of treatments promoted include holistic healing, psychosocial interventions, and medication management.
My name is Michael Omomo. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I have over ten years’ experience in helping people with mental health conditions, I treat individuals from ages 6 years and above. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I believe in an integrated approach to care for individuals with mental health. The types of treatments promoted include holistic healing, psychosocial interventions, and medication management.
(651) 564-7607 View (651) 564-7607
Photo of Deborah Troy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Deborah Troy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am Board Certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Hello, I am Board Certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(763) 314-3787 View (763) 314-3787
Photo of Brenna Christie - Psychiatric Pathways, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Psychiatric Pathways
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Minneapolis, MN 55439
I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, offering psychiatric care to individuals across the lifespan. While I am passionate about improving mental health for all ages, I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, teens, and young adults. For clients aged 18+, at-home ketamine troches may be an option for individuals who struggle with treatment-resistant depression.
I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, offering psychiatric care to individuals across the lifespan. While I am passionate about improving mental health for all ages, I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, teens, and young adults. For clients aged 18+, at-home ketamine troches may be an option for individuals who struggle with treatment-resistant depression.
(952) 395-0114 View (952) 395-0114
Photo of Sheila Hennen, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Sheila Hennen
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Plymouth, MN 55447
Sheila Hennen, NP, is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals and families across Minnesota. As a skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, she works with children, teens, adults, and older adults, offering personalized treatment plans that support each person's journey toward greater stability, wellness, and hope. With specialized training in both mental health therapy and medication management for substance use, Sheila is uniquely equipped to support clients facing complex emotional, behavioral, and psychiatric challenges.
Sheila Hennen, NP, is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals and families across Minnesota. As a skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, she works with children, teens, adults, and older adults, offering personalized treatment plans that support each person's journey toward greater stability, wellness, and hope. With specialized training in both mental health therapy and medication management for substance use, Sheila is uniquely equipped to support clients facing complex emotional, behavioral, and psychiatric challenges.
(763) 710-6379 View (763) 710-6379
Photo of Sonia C Edouard - Heritage Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Heritage Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Life is hard and it’s okay to not be okay. Mental health is Sonia’s passion. She’s here to help and see you thrive.
Life is hard and it’s okay to not be okay. Mental health is Sonia’s passion. She’s here to help and see you thrive.
(786) 705-2762 View (786) 705-2762
Photo of For More Information - Nexus of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nexus of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lakeville, MN 55044
TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Telehealth appointments are available for your convenience. Appointments are available within 7 days or less. We also have extended evening hours. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Telehealth appointments are available for your convenience. Appointments are available within 7 days or less. We also have extended evening hours. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
(952) 955-4110 View (952) 955-4110
Photo of Jamie Baso, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jamie Baso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Florence Gbadehan - Essential Mind Healthcare LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNPBC
Essential Mind Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Essential Mind, we take a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health care. Our Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializes in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, solution-focused psychotherapy, and medication management for individuals across the life span with mental health conditions.
At Essential Mind, we take a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health care. Our Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializes in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, solution-focused psychotherapy, and medication management for individuals across the life span with mental health conditions.
(651) 401-7539 View (651) 401-7539
Photo of Jenn Bedard-Parker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, CNP
Jenn Bedard-Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, CNP
Maplewood, MN 55109
Jenn Bedard-Parker (she/her/hers) completed her Master's in Nursing at the University of North Dakota. As an Army veteran, she is well versed on the impact that TBIs, PTSD, and untreated mood issues can have on individuals and their families. With past experience that ranges both across the continuum of care and in a wide variety of settings, she specializes in medication management and psychoeducation. Outside of work she spends time with her family and pets, gardens, crochets, and plays word games.
Jenn Bedard-Parker (she/her/hers) completed her Master's in Nursing at the University of North Dakota. As an Army veteran, she is well versed on the impact that TBIs, PTSD, and untreated mood issues can have on individuals and their families. With past experience that ranges both across the continuum of care and in a wide variety of settings, she specializes in medication management and psychoeducation. Outside of work she spends time with her family and pets, gardens, crochets, and plays word games.
(651) 273-1054 View (651) 273-1054
Photo of Iris Medini, Psychiatrist, MD
Iris Medini
Psychiatrist, MD
Minnetonka, MN 55343
I believe that we have the capacity to heal when provided with the appropriate guidance and tools. My role is to listen, to understand, and to identify the therapeutic and medical modalities that will guide you toward emotional wellbeing, and overall health.
I believe that we have the capacity to heal when provided with the appropriate guidance and tools. My role is to listen, to understand, and to identify the therapeutic and medical modalities that will guide you toward emotional wellbeing, and overall health.
(651) 504-8299 View (651) 504-8299
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
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 Dr. Cedric Skillon, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Cedric Skillon
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Cedric Skillon is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Skillon’s clinical expertise includes treating adults with depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, substance -related and addictive disorders, and trauma related disorders. Dr. Skillon has worked in a variety of mental health care settings including academia, community mental health centers, and a substance use treatment center. Dr. Skillon grew up in Detroit, Michigan. He obtained his Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University.
Dr. Cedric Skillon is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Skillon’s clinical expertise includes treating adults with depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, substance -related and addictive disorders, and trauma related disorders. Dr. Skillon has worked in a variety of mental health care settings including academia, community mental health centers, and a substance use treatment center. Dr. Skillon grew up in Detroit, Michigan. He obtained his Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University.
(952) 260-1066 View (952) 260-1066
Photo of Gladys A Ndege, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Gladys A Ndege
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting new patients, via Telehealth only, for psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and medication management for mood disorders, trauma, sleep issues, anxiety and other mental health issues. I believe that the development of mental health conditions is a combination of factors relating to genetics, environment and other stressors. Every client presents differently and therefore, I work with each individual uniquely to address the challenges associated with mental health. My approach is Client-Centered Care that enables and encourages clients to take part in their care.
Now accepting new patients, via Telehealth only, for psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and medication management for mood disorders, trauma, sleep issues, anxiety and other mental health issues. I believe that the development of mental health conditions is a combination of factors relating to genetics, environment and other stressors. Every client presents differently and therefore, I work with each individual uniquely to address the challenges associated with mental health. My approach is Client-Centered Care that enables and encourages clients to take part in their care.
(763) 298-4312 View (763) 298-4312
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
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.
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Photo of Joline L Wudtke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Joline L Wudtke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I have been practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner for 6 years. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a range of psychiatric conditions. I believe in a holistic approach, incorporating psychotherapy, medication management, and patient education. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals of all ages. I incorporate humor when appropriate. Laughter can both reduce excessive anxiety and facilitate the expression of emotions. I believe in a relaxed approach with my patients. It can be very difficult for some people to discuss personal subject matters.
I have been practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner for 6 years. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a range of psychiatric conditions. I believe in a holistic approach, incorporating psychotherapy, medication management, and patient education. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals of all ages. I incorporate humor when appropriate. Laughter can both reduce excessive anxiety and facilitate the expression of emotions. I believe in a relaxed approach with my patients. It can be very difficult for some people to discuss personal subject matters.
View
Photo of Shannon Meyers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN
Shannon Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN
Online Only
Currently Accepting New Patients- Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though I practice exclusively in psychiatry. My background and clinical experience in family practice and psychiatry gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5-64. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you to improve your mental health.
Currently Accepting New Patients- Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though I practice exclusively in psychiatry. My background and clinical experience in family practice and psychiatry gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5-64. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you to improve your mental health.
(407) 337-2587 View (407) 337-2587
Photo of Elvis T Starllone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Elvis T Starllone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
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 Sheila Dunn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Sheila Dunn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 6+ years of critical care experience from working in the Intensive Care Unit. It is there, where I discovered my interest in psychiatry and realized just how under-served the mental health population is. My compassion for others coupled with my interest in psychiatry is what prompted me to pursue my degree as a nurse practitioner. My goal is get patients back to living life the way they did before they were affected by mental illness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 6+ years of critical care experience from working in the Intensive Care Unit. It is there, where I discovered my interest in psychiatry and realized just how under-served the mental health population is. My compassion for others coupled with my interest in psychiatry is what prompted me to pursue my degree as a nurse practitioner. My goal is get patients back to living life the way they did before they were affected by mental illness.
(507) 204-9465 View (507) 204-9465

See more therapy options for 55420

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 55420

< 10

Psychiatrists in 55420 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Dissociative Disorders (DID)
100% Psychosis

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medicaid
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in 55420 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 55420?

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.