Psychiatrists in 55428

Photo of Shakleen Shakur, MS,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shakleen Shakur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55428
Shakleen Shakur, NP, is an Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health in Minnesota. She specializes in providing warm, compassionate, holistic, personcentered, and traumainformed care to clients. With a belief that every patient has a unique story, Shakleen makes every effort to provide individualized and culturally sensitive care. She serves adults and seniors, addressing mental health challenges and promoting overall wellbeing across Minnesota. Shakleen is passionate about treating a wide range of conditions, with a particular focus on anxiety, ADHD, and substance use/abuse.
Shakleen Shakur, NP, is an Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health in Minnesota. She specializes in providing warm, compassionate, holistic, personcentered, and traumainformed care to clients. With a belief that every patient has a unique story, Shakleen makes every effort to provide individualized and culturally sensitive care. She serves adults and seniors, addressing mental health challenges and promoting overall wellbeing across Minnesota. Shakleen is passionate about treating a wide range of conditions, with a particular focus on anxiety, ADHD, and substance use/abuse.
(763) 710-3972 View (763) 710-3972
Photo of Michael O'Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael O'Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn Park, MN 55428
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.
(763) 284-5631 View (763) 284-5631
Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry , DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Brooklyn Park, MN 55428
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
(612) 682-5855 View (612) 682-5855
Photo of Lindsey Hatcher, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsey Hatcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55428
Are you looking for a compassionate partner in your mental health journey? I’m dedicated to helping individuals find comfort, strength, and balance in their lives. Combining clinical expertise with genuine empathy, I provide a supportive space where you can explore your challenges and work toward your goals. My holistic approach considers every aspect of your well-being because I believe true healing involves the whole person. Immediate openings are available for both online and in-person sessions. Let’s take this journey together toward a brighter, healthier future.
Are you looking for a compassionate partner in your mental health journey? I’m dedicated to helping individuals find comfort, strength, and balance in their lives. Combining clinical expertise with genuine empathy, I provide a supportive space where you can explore your challenges and work toward your goals. My holistic approach considers every aspect of your well-being because I believe true healing involves the whole person. Immediate openings are available for both online and in-person sessions. Let’s take this journey together toward a brighter, healthier future.
(763) 334-5769 View (763) 334-5769

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Jacobs, MSN, RN, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
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.
(612) 444-7268 View (612) 444-7268
Photo of Stephen Byrd, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephen Byrd
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55437
Dr. Stephen Byrd is a clinical psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board-certified in both psychiatry and addiction medicine. He has been practicing for over 31 years in a wide variety of settings including work with inpatients and outpatients in private practice, community mental health, geriatric, VA, and community hospital/medical center settings. Dr. Byrd's practice focuses on evidence-based medication management usually provided in conjunction with 30- minute supportive psychotherapy informed by cognitive behavior therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy and motivational enhancement.
Dr. Stephen Byrd is a clinical psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board-certified in both psychiatry and addiction medicine. He has been practicing for over 31 years in a wide variety of settings including work with inpatients and outpatients in private practice, community mental health, geriatric, VA, and community hospital/medical center settings. Dr. Byrd's practice focuses on evidence-based medication management usually provided in conjunction with 30- minute supportive psychotherapy informed by cognitive behavior therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy and motivational enhancement.
(833) 351-8255 View (833) 351-8255
Photo of Ashley Breding, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Breding
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I'm thrilled to announce my recent graduation from Vanderbilt University, where I refined my nursing skills and passion. With a focus on supporting individuals across the lifespan, I bring rich experience in assisting those with eating disorders, complex trauma, anxiety, and substance use disorders. My journey to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner is driven by my deep love for listening to people's stories and my genuine desire to be part of their transformative process. Crafting personalized treatment plans, I blend medication management with therapy techniques, rooted in meeting each person's unique needs.
I'm thrilled to announce my recent graduation from Vanderbilt University, where I refined my nursing skills and passion. With a focus on supporting individuals across the lifespan, I bring rich experience in assisting those with eating disorders, complex trauma, anxiety, and substance use disorders. My journey to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner is driven by my deep love for listening to people's stories and my genuine desire to be part of their transformative process. Crafting personalized treatment plans, I blend medication management with therapy techniques, rooted in meeting each person's unique needs.
(651) 565-6864 View (651) 565-6864
Photo of Joan Gibson, MS, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joan Gibson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
We work hard at ensuring people get quality mental health care from their first visit forward and are here to support individuals throughout their journey. We provide care for patients who have a variety of psychiatric conditions. Specializing in ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia and comorbid medical/psychiatric conditions. We treat each person with compassion, we speak kindly to others, listen carefully without judgement, we are empathetic to other people's needs and have a desire to help people. The most rewarding part our job is seeing patients who feel and function better.
We work hard at ensuring people get quality mental health care from their first visit forward and are here to support individuals throughout their journey. We provide care for patients who have a variety of psychiatric conditions. Specializing in ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia and comorbid medical/psychiatric conditions. We treat each person with compassion, we speak kindly to others, listen carefully without judgement, we are empathetic to other people's needs and have a desire to help people. The most rewarding part our job is seeing patients who feel and function better.
(952) 900-4427 View (952) 900-4427
Photo of Jennifer Dotseth, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Dotseth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55423  (Online Only)
I strive to form an honest and transparent relationship with my clients. I believe that the provider-client relationship is a partnership; there is no one size fits all treatment plan. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to help guide and support you on your journey to better mental health; whether this involves treatment with medications, supplements for a more natural approach, a combination of the two, or a creative option which we come up with together.
I strive to form an honest and transparent relationship with my clients. I believe that the provider-client relationship is a partnership; there is no one size fits all treatment plan. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to help guide and support you on your journey to better mental health; whether this involves treatment with medications, supplements for a more natural approach, a combination of the two, or a creative option which we come up with together.
(320) 335-0401 View (320) 335-0401
Photo of Equilibrium Brain Body Balance - Equilibrium Brain Body Balance, APRN, LICSW, Psychiatric Nurse
Equilibrium Brain Body Balance
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Need Balance?! Equilibrium Brain Body Balance is all about helping you find balance in your life. Meeting you where you are in your mental health journey. We offer approaches that allow our patients to engage in traditional therapies or interactive therapies; talk, art therapies, to physical activities and interactive spaces. Available Services; psychiatry, psychotherapy, diagnosis. Equilibrium offers zen zones, meditation areas, physical engagement spaces. Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health services that will help you see a reduction in your mental health symptoms, while aiding to create balance in your life.
Need Balance?! Equilibrium Brain Body Balance is all about helping you find balance in your life. Meeting you where you are in your mental health journey. We offer approaches that allow our patients to engage in traditional therapies or interactive therapies; talk, art therapies, to physical activities and interactive spaces. Available Services; psychiatry, psychotherapy, diagnosis. Equilibrium offers zen zones, meditation areas, physical engagement spaces. Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health services that will help you see a reduction in your mental health symptoms, while aiding to create balance in your life.
(952) 592-9930 View (952) 592-9930
Photo of Dileep Borra, MD, Psychiatrist
Dileep Borra
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55404
My clinic is named Being You Mental Health because I believe "being you" is a unique experience, and I feel honored to help my patients overcome barriers to becoming their most authentic and unique selves. I employ a strengths-based, patient-centered, and collaborative approach and I combine psychotherapy with psychiatric medication management (only if needed) to help my patients achieve the most improvement in their mental health and functioning. The electronic medical record I use is Luminello. Patients will have access to a patient portal (similar to mychart for epic) through which secure documents and messages can be exchanged
My clinic is named Being You Mental Health because I believe "being you" is a unique experience, and I feel honored to help my patients overcome barriers to becoming their most authentic and unique selves. I employ a strengths-based, patient-centered, and collaborative approach and I combine psychotherapy with psychiatric medication management (only if needed) to help my patients achieve the most improvement in their mental health and functioning. The electronic medical record I use is Luminello. Patients will have access to a patient portal (similar to mychart for epic) through which secure documents and messages can be exchanged
(608) 975-3292 View (608) 975-3292
Photo of Andrietta Wright Barnett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrietta Wright Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55106
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
(651) 705-4350 View (651) 705-4350
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 Chidinma Eze, DNP , CCHP, FNP, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chidinma Eze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , CCHP, FNP, PMNHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Dr. Eze offers treatment options for anxiety disorder, Substance use disorder, depression, mood disorder, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. Probity Healthcare will be expanding soon to the drug treatment facility. We care about your mental health service, please give us a call for appointment.
Dr. Eze offers treatment options for anxiety disorder, Substance use disorder, depression, mood disorder, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. Probity Healthcare will be expanding soon to the drug treatment facility. We care about your mental health service, please give us a call for appointment.
(443) 960-7840 View (443) 960-7840
Photo of Helen Wood - Helen Wood, MD, PA, MD, Psychiatrist
Helen Wood, MD, PA
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
New appointment times are available starting in January, 2017. I look forward to working with patients that desire to improve their emotional and mental health and are motivated to take active steps toward achieving their recovery.
New appointment times are available starting in January, 2017. I look forward to working with patients that desire to improve their emotional and mental health and are motivated to take active steps toward achieving their recovery.
(952) 679-8836 View (952) 679-8836
Photo of Maria Metry - LifeStance Health, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
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 Natasha Isaman, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasha Isaman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Natasha is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in MN, ND, ID, and IA. She holds a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Grand Forks, North Dakota. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Minnesota State University, Moorhead, MN. Natasha sees clients ages 5 and older. Natasha has 17+ years of healthcare experience working in home health, assisted living, long term care, and inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use. As a PMHNP-BC, Natasha provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for those of all ages and backgrounds.
Natasha is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in MN, ND, ID, and IA. She holds a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Grand Forks, North Dakota. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Minnesota State University, Moorhead, MN. Natasha sees clients ages 5 and older. Natasha has 17+ years of healthcare experience working in home health, assisted living, long term care, and inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use. As a PMHNP-BC, Natasha provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for those of all ages and backgrounds.
(952) 295-4661 View (952) 295-4661
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 Veronica Sherwood - Integrative Psychiatry with a Holistic Approach, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrative Psychiatry with a Holistic Approach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55400
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, psychoeducation, as well as an evidence-based practice of medication prescribing and management. I enjoy working with individuals throughout the lifespan from ages 5 and up and have experience in helping people with anxiety, ADD/ADHD, depression, panic, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, and PTSD, among other diagnoses as well. I wouldn’t be where I am without those who've helped me along the way. That’s why I love using my passion and skills to make a difference.
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The services I provide include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, psychoeducation, as well as an evidence-based practice of medication prescribing and management. I enjoy working with individuals throughout the lifespan from ages 5 and up and have experience in helping people with anxiety, ADD/ADHD, depression, panic, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, and PTSD, among other diagnoses as well. I wouldn’t be where I am without those who've helped me along the way. That’s why I love using my passion and skills to make a difference.
(605) 205-8986 View (605) 205-8986
Photo of Tiffany Hurt, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Tiffany Hurt
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55343
With a holistic and patient-centered approach, Tiffany crafts personalized treatment plans rooted in evidence-based practices. Driven by a genuine desire for her patients' well-being, Tiffany empowers them to achieve optimal mental health. Committed to ongoing education, she stays updated on the latest advancements in psychiatric care, ensuring top-notch treatment for those under her care.
With a holistic and patient-centered approach, Tiffany crafts personalized treatment plans rooted in evidence-based practices. Driven by a genuine desire for her patients' well-being, Tiffany empowers them to achieve optimal mental health. Committed to ongoing education, she stays updated on the latest advancements in psychiatric care, ensuring top-notch treatment for those under her care.
(612) 682-1881 View (612) 682-1881

See more therapy options for 55428

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 55428

< 10

Psychiatrists in 55428 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management

Average years in practice

22 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 55428 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 55428?

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.