Psychiatrists in 56301
Emily Luitjens is a highly qualified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions, including caring for patients with dementia. She provides compassionate, collaborative and holistic care.
Emily Luitjens is a highly qualified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions, including caring for patients with dementia. She provides compassionate, collaborative and holistic care.
Better Days Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
My name is Tai Oguntade. I am a board certified PMHNP. Most mental health clients may be dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychiatric disorders, struggling with addiction, and seeking recovery. They are also dealing with behavioral issues such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia and lifestyle concerns such as poor sleep hygiene. At Better Days Psychiatry LLC, I build trust through shared interests, align future goals, address emotional needs, provide holistic care, and foster a collaborative environment. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their mental health goals and improve their overall quality of life.
My name is Tai Oguntade. I am a board certified PMHNP. Most mental health clients may be dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychiatric disorders, struggling with addiction, and seeking recovery. They are also dealing with behavioral issues such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia and lifestyle concerns such as poor sleep hygiene. At Better Days Psychiatry LLC, I build trust through shared interests, align future goals, address emotional needs, provide holistic care, and foster a collaborative environment. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their mental health goals and improve their overall quality of life.
Shannon Minnehan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CRNA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years experience in advanced practice nursing. I provide medication management, including ketamine therapy, and brief psychotherapy for a wide range of mental health issues. I enjoy working with children, teens and families/caregivers, as well as adults. I take a holistic, trauma informed, biopsychosocial approach to treatment for complex disorders as well as everyday stressors that may be hindering growth and enjoyment of life.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years experience in advanced practice nursing. I provide medication management, including ketamine therapy, and brief psychotherapy for a wide range of mental health issues. I enjoy working with children, teens and families/caregivers, as well as adults. I take a holistic, trauma informed, biopsychosocial approach to treatment for complex disorders as well as everyday stressors that may be hindering growth and enjoyment of life.
Leah Good Psychiatry and Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you felt as if your past psychiatry providers didn’t have the time for your concerns, or even didn’t really know you or hear you? Working together to find the most appropriate diagnoses and best possible medication or other treatment modalities for you as an individual is my goal. I believe that this can be best accomplished by establishing a mutually respectful and trusting relationship, where you will be treated as an individual, not an illness or a number.
Have you felt as if your past psychiatry providers didn’t have the time for your concerns, or even didn’t really know you or hear you? Working together to find the most appropriate diagnoses and best possible medication or other treatment modalities for you as an individual is my goal. I believe that this can be best accomplished by establishing a mutually respectful and trusting relationship, where you will be treated as an individual, not an illness or a number.
Dr. Oluwasegun David
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301 (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome! My name is Olu David, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals seeking support for mental health challenges. I understand that taking the first step toward improving your mental well-being can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or simply feel like you’re not functioning at your best, I am here to listen, guide, and help you navigate through it. I take a holistic, patient-centered approach so request appointment to take the first step toward feeling better!
Hello, and welcome! My name is Olu David, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals seeking support for mental health challenges. I understand that taking the first step toward improving your mental well-being can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or simply feel like you’re not functioning at your best, I am here to listen, guide, and help you navigate through it. I take a holistic, patient-centered approach so request appointment to take the first step toward feeling better!
East Central Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301 (Online Only)
I am certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which means I am certified to provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan (ages 6 and up). I have been in the metal health field for 20 years, training in a variety of mental health settings including outpatient community mental health, private practice, direct care with children and adolescents, corrections, and both forensic and substance abuse programs. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
I am certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which means I am certified to provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan (ages 6 and up). I have been in the metal health field for 20 years, training in a variety of mental health settings including outpatient community mental health, private practice, direct care with children and adolescents, corrections, and both forensic and substance abuse programs. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
Amazing Health is a community based mental health clinic. We provide mental health and wellness services in the community through an integrated treatment model for the psychiatric management of clients. We utilize a unique approach to improve client’s quality of life and families, eliminating barriers to mental health and wellness treatment. We collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide an integrative treatment plan. We work with our clients closely to develop effective treatment modalities that foster compliance to treatment regimen and lifestyle changes.
Amazing Health is a community based mental health clinic. We provide mental health and wellness services in the community through an integrated treatment model for the psychiatric management of clients. We utilize a unique approach to improve client’s quality of life and families, eliminating barriers to mental health and wellness treatment. We collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide an integrative treatment plan. We work with our clients closely to develop effective treatment modalities that foster compliance to treatment regimen and lifestyle changes.
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Jamie Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo, MN 55313
Medication/Therapy - Ready for a Change? If you're: - Feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or relationships - Experiencing anxiety, depression - Going through a significant life transition - Ready to leave the status quo behind and embrace positive change ...then it's time to take the next step in your personal growth journey. I specialize in helping motivated individuals like you navigate life's challenges and transitions. Clients are typically: College students striving personal excellence - Business professionals aiming to balance career and personal fulfillment - Entrepreneurs seeking to overcome imposter syndrome.
Medication/Therapy - Ready for a Change? If you're: - Feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or relationships - Experiencing anxiety, depression - Going through a significant life transition - Ready to leave the status quo behind and embrace positive change ...then it's time to take the next step in your personal growth journey. I specialize in helping motivated individuals like you navigate life's challenges and transitions. Clients are typically: College students striving personal excellence - Business professionals aiming to balance career and personal fulfillment - Entrepreneurs seeking to overcome imposter syndrome.
I provide psychiatric care for the general adult population with a variety of diagnoses.
I provide psychiatric care for the general adult population with a variety of diagnoses.
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.
My clinical interests include: General Psychiatry with expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorders, , Bipolar disorders, ADHD, psychotic/schizophrenic disorders, PTSD, Mood disorders, and medication management.
My clinical interests include: General Psychiatry with expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorders, , Bipolar disorders, ADHD, psychotic/schizophrenic disorders, PTSD, Mood disorders, and medication management.
Tiffany Pittman | Northwind Holistic Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Saint Joseph, MN 56374
Everyone deserves psychiatric care where they feel valued and understood. My approach combines psychiatric medication with holistic therapies, focusing on your overall well-being. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, empathetic care, supporting you throughout your journey to mental health and wellness. Together, we will explore personalized treatment options that align with your unique experiences and goals. Please visit the website to learn more and get scheduled for your complimentary 15-minute consultation today! (Northwind Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC www.northwindholisticpsychiatry.com).
Everyone deserves psychiatric care where they feel valued and understood. My approach combines psychiatric medication with holistic therapies, focusing on your overall well-being. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, empathetic care, supporting you throughout your journey to mental health and wellness. Together, we will explore personalized treatment options that align with your unique experiences and goals. Please visit the website to learn more and get scheduled for your complimentary 15-minute consultation today! (Northwind Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC www.northwindholisticpsychiatry.com).
Terri Duncan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Monticello, MN 55362
I have been working in healthcare in many different facets for over 25 years. I am eager to work with clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety (feelings of being overwhelmed), social anxiety, mood disorders and so many other mental health problems. I have worked with substance use and drug abuse extensively for over 10 years. Overcoming substance use does not have to be hard, it does not have to be a struggle, I am here to help. Struggling with mental health problems can sometimes be lonely and scary, I am here to listen and offer help and support, you don't have to struggle in silence or alone. I can help.
I have been working in healthcare in many different facets for over 25 years. I am eager to work with clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety (feelings of being overwhelmed), social anxiety, mood disorders and so many other mental health problems. I have worked with substance use and drug abuse extensively for over 10 years. Overcoming substance use does not have to be hard, it does not have to be a struggle, I am here to help. Struggling with mental health problems can sometimes be lonely and scary, I am here to listen and offer help and support, you don't have to struggle in silence or alone. I can help.
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56302
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.
Take Heart Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rice, MN 56367
I am looking for patients who want to set goals and make real progress towards getting to know themselves better despite their underlying mental health symptoms. I am interested in working with clients who do not define themselves by their mental illness be it anxiety, depression or ADHD. My ideal patients are those looking to break free from the cycle and are motivated to make positive, practical changes in their life.
I am looking for patients who want to set goals and make real progress towards getting to know themselves better despite their underlying mental health symptoms. I am interested in working with clients who do not define themselves by their mental illness be it anxiety, depression or ADHD. My ideal patients are those looking to break free from the cycle and are motivated to make positive, practical changes in their life.
Good Shepherd Psychiatric Consultant, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, AAPRN, BC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, MN 56329
Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to individuals suffering from mental illness. Treatments include diagnostic evaluations, medication management, integrative interventions and genetic testing.
Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to individuals suffering from mental illness. Treatments include diagnostic evaluations, medication management, integrative interventions and genetic testing.
Roxanne Dobrava
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clear Lake, MN 55319 (Online Only)
An ideal client for Roxanne DoBrava, might be an individual grappling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, seeking a compassionate and effective approach to treatment. Do you feel overwhelmed by your mental health struggles and are yearning for stability and understanding? Do you need a professional who not only listens but also empowers you through evidence-based treatments and empathetic care. Do your goals include managing symptoms, developing coping strategies, and achieving a sense of normalcy and balance in their life? Roxanne wants you to feel heard, respected, and be involved in your care.
An ideal client for Roxanne DoBrava, might be an individual grappling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, seeking a compassionate and effective approach to treatment. Do you feel overwhelmed by your mental health struggles and are yearning for stability and understanding? Do you need a professional who not only listens but also empowers you through evidence-based treatments and empathetic care. Do your goals include managing symptoms, developing coping strategies, and achieving a sense of normalcy and balance in their life? Roxanne wants you to feel heard, respected, and be involved in your care.
Online Psychiatrists
In my 36 years of work with individuals, clinicians and students, I am convinced that sorting through feelings of pain, distress or numbness, is best helped by exploring these difficulties with a reflective partner who understands the preciousness of opening up. This partnership can discover and illuminate parts of you, which enhances the unique interplay of your thoughts, feelings and experiences. These discoveries help you develop better tools for a richer life. Private pay. I am a Graduate of Rush Medical School, Northwestern University Medical School-Psychiatry and the Institute for Psychoanalysis- Chicago.
In my 36 years of work with individuals, clinicians and students, I am convinced that sorting through feelings of pain, distress or numbness, is best helped by exploring these difficulties with a reflective partner who understands the preciousness of opening up. This partnership can discover and illuminate parts of you, which enhances the unique interplay of your thoughts, feelings and experiences. These discoveries help you develop better tools for a richer life. Private pay. I am a Graduate of Rush Medical School, Northwestern University Medical School-Psychiatry and the Institute for Psychoanalysis- Chicago.
I practice with a prevention mindset and a focus on holistic care. My goal is to develop relationships, empower clients to make their best health decisions, and focus on functioning. Everyone deserves to receive non-judgmental mental health care that considers all components of your life. I look forward to partnering with people to help them achieve their highest level of wellness.
I practice with a prevention mindset and a focus on holistic care. My goal is to develop relationships, empower clients to make their best health decisions, and focus on functioning. Everyone deserves to receive non-judgmental mental health care that considers all components of your life. I look forward to partnering with people to help them achieve their highest level of wellness.
See more therapy options for 56301
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 56301
< 10
Psychiatrists in 56301 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | Medicare |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
86% | United Medical Resources (UMR) |
How Psychiatrists in 56301 see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 56301?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.