Psychiatrists in 59106

Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.

Jen Buscher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59106
Accepting new clients! I specialize in medication management for children and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. I also specialize in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders as a way to support both the health of a birthing individual and their child. My ideal client is someone who feels stuck or overwhelmed, struggling to manage their emotions or behavior. Their goal is to find the right treatment to improve their mental well-being and regain balance. I work closely with families to tailor medication plans and ensure lasting progress. Let’s work together to help you and your child thrive.
Accepting new clients! I specialize in medication management for children and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. I also specialize in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders as a way to support both the health of a birthing individual and their child. My ideal client is someone who feels stuck or overwhelmed, struggling to manage their emotions or behavior. Their goal is to find the right treatment to improve their mental well-being and regain balance. I work closely with families to tailor medication plans and ensure lasting progress. Let’s work together to help you and your child thrive.

Sarah Stockham Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Licensed in CO and MT, Sarah is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in nutritional psychiatry. After graduating at the top of her class from the University of Colorado, Sarah further honed her expertise by pursuing advanced training in nutritional psychiatry through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute, Psychiatry Redefined under Dr. James Greenblatt and learned metabolic psychiatry with Dr. Georgia Ede—renowned leaders in the field. Sarah's approach combines the most current knowledge in psychiatry with practical, nutrition-based strategies to optimize mental health and well-being.
Licensed in CO and MT, Sarah is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in nutritional psychiatry. After graduating at the top of her class from the University of Colorado, Sarah further honed her expertise by pursuing advanced training in nutritional psychiatry through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute, Psychiatry Redefined under Dr. James Greenblatt and learned metabolic psychiatry with Dr. Georgia Ede—renowned leaders in the field. Sarah's approach combines the most current knowledge in psychiatry with practical, nutrition-based strategies to optimize mental health and well-being.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Marcus Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59105
Now accepting new patients with same week appointments! Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
Now accepting new patients with same week appointments! Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.

Hello, I am Ruth Rafacz a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2010. I believe in working together with my patient. My patients are active participants in their care. working with the patient to find the right medicine and theoretical approach that is tailor made for each patient. There is no one size fits all in mental healthcare.
Hello, I am Ruth Rafacz a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2010. I believe in working together with my patient. My patients are active participants in their care. working with the patient to find the right medicine and theoretical approach that is tailor made for each patient. There is no one size fits all in mental healthcare.

Brandy Colvin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You are not alone. Depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and other mental health concerns can make us feel stuck, but there is hope. How can I help with your mental health goals? Through my diverse healthcare background, I've learned that there is a shared human experience—the desire to feel accepted and comfortable in sharing our personal stories. I work according to a guideline known in psychology: unconditional positive regard. I aim to create a space where you are supported without fear of judgment. In-person or online visits are available to all Montana residents.
You are not alone. Depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and other mental health concerns can make us feel stuck, but there is hope. How can I help with your mental health goals? Through my diverse healthcare background, I've learned that there is a shared human experience—the desire to feel accepted and comfortable in sharing our personal stories. I work according to a guideline known in psychology: unconditional positive regard. I aim to create a space where you are supported without fear of judgment. In-person or online visits are available to all Montana residents.

Jiff (Jennifer) McAnally
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Jiff is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Montana State University & focused her research on treating Adverse Childhood Experiences. She has worked & trained at Montana State Hospital, the VA, & many regional hospitals & outpatient facilities where she has served all ages & complexities. She authors continuing education for nurses & instructs nursing courses. Jiff grew up in the small-town, farming, ranching, and rodeo ways of life in Montana. She operates from the values of community learned here.
Jiff is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Montana State University & focused her research on treating Adverse Childhood Experiences. She has worked & trained at Montana State Hospital, the VA, & many regional hospitals & outpatient facilities where she has served all ages & complexities. She authors continuing education for nurses & instructs nursing courses. Jiff grew up in the small-town, farming, ranching, and rodeo ways of life in Montana. She operates from the values of community learned here.
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
100% ONLINE visits You travel around looking for a new provider every time you change states. You don't have time or want to call into an office, negotiate appointments with secretaries, drive in traffic, sit in a crowded waiting room, just to continue your medicine. We are licensed in 20 states and offer video visits from your computer or phone. Saturday and Sunday hours available. SCHEDULE today ONLINE: AtYourServicePsychiatry.com
100% ONLINE visits You travel around looking for a new provider every time you change states. You don't have time or want to call into an office, negotiate appointments with secretaries, drive in traffic, sit in a crowded waiting room, just to continue your medicine. We are licensed in 20 states and offer video visits from your computer or phone. Saturday and Sunday hours available. SCHEDULE today ONLINE: AtYourServicePsychiatry.com

I will work to become your trusted provider for mental health care services. I specialize in offering virtual mental health evaluations, assessments, and medication management tailored to your unique needs. With over 35 years of healthcare experience and certifications as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I’m here to guide you through managing a variety of conditions. I help young adults, working professionals, homemakers, college students, and those that need help dealing with life's hurdles.
I will work to become your trusted provider for mental health care services. I specialize in offering virtual mental health evaluations, assessments, and medication management tailored to your unique needs. With over 35 years of healthcare experience and certifications as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I’m here to guide you through managing a variety of conditions. I help young adults, working professionals, homemakers, college students, and those that need help dealing with life's hurdles.

I am Board Certified Psychiatrist with expertise in treatment resistant mental illness and comprehensive approach to patients. I am promptly available on phone 406-702-0795 for people with depression, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia. S-ketamine (Spravato) FDA approved treatment I provide to qualified patients. My neuropsychiatry background in clinics and research, psychiatry residency training since 2012 in ketamine for people with treatment resistant depression and suicidal ideations helps me to achieve successful results.
I am Board Certified Psychiatrist with expertise in treatment resistant mental illness and comprehensive approach to patients. I am promptly available on phone 406-702-0795 for people with depression, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia. S-ketamine (Spravato) FDA approved treatment I provide to qualified patients. My neuropsychiatry background in clinics and research, psychiatry residency training since 2012 in ketamine for people with treatment resistant depression and suicidal ideations helps me to achieve successful results.

Mind Over Matter Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our provider is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, currently focusing on adolescents and geriatrics. Tresa acquired a Master’s degree with a focus in Mental Health Nursing and Psychiatry from Walden University, Minnesota.
Our provider is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, currently focusing on adolescents and geriatrics. Tresa acquired a Master’s degree with a focus in Mental Health Nursing and Psychiatry from Walden University, Minnesota.

Optimize Psychiatry offers a modern & natural approach to psychiatry that is Personalized, Holistic, Functional & Scientifically Informed. We take a root-cause analytic approach to each client's unique biochemistry, genetics & psychological factors and work to align physiology, neurology, and psychodynamics by incorporating insights from various disciplines within and outside of medicine. Our goal is always to help you retrieve or discover your Optimized Self through insight and future-driven change designed to improve your health across life domains and aligned with your deepest values. (More details at optimizepsychiatry.com)
Optimize Psychiatry offers a modern & natural approach to psychiatry that is Personalized, Holistic, Functional & Scientifically Informed. We take a root-cause analytic approach to each client's unique biochemistry, genetics & psychological factors and work to align physiology, neurology, and psychodynamics by incorporating insights from various disciplines within and outside of medicine. Our goal is always to help you retrieve or discover your Optimized Self through insight and future-driven change designed to improve your health across life domains and aligned with your deepest values. (More details at optimizepsychiatry.com)

Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.
Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.

Bellathia Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
***Accepting NEW PATIENTS in Montana*****SCHEDULE DIRECTLY at www.bellathiapsychiatry.com****** I can provide psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluation, medication management, laboratory monitoring, follow up care, and referrals as needed. You are important and so is your self care! I'm here to help. I have several years of diverse experience in education and nursing. My goal is to help you understand why you are feeling this way and how we can work together towards meeting your needs.
***Accepting NEW PATIENTS in Montana*****SCHEDULE DIRECTLY at www.bellathiapsychiatry.com****** I can provide psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluation, medication management, laboratory monitoring, follow up care, and referrals as needed. You are important and so is your self care! I'm here to help. I have several years of diverse experience in education and nursing. My goal is to help you understand why you are feeling this way and how we can work together towards meeting your needs.

My approach is rooted in a commitment to swift, impactful results. Drawing from my extensive emergency medical background, I believe mental health treatment should be as prompt and effective as any other medical intervention. I am resolute in my stance that individuals grappling with severe depression, anxiety, or any mental health challenge shouldn't endure prolonged waits for relief. I specialize in treating patients with severe mental illness who have often exhausted numerous medication options. My unique skill set and training position me to address cases where others may have faltered.
My approach is rooted in a commitment to swift, impactful results. Drawing from my extensive emergency medical background, I believe mental health treatment should be as prompt and effective as any other medical intervention. I am resolute in my stance that individuals grappling with severe depression, anxiety, or any mental health challenge shouldn't endure prolonged waits for relief. I specialize in treating patients with severe mental illness who have often exhausted numerous medication options. My unique skill set and training position me to address cases where others may have faltered.

Holistic Healing Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I focus on the whole person, not a diagnosis. I take a trauma-informed approach my patients and look at mental illness as the result of the many difficult experiences that my patients have experienced. I understand the importance of lifestyle factors including the role of nutrition and exercise. In addition to prescribing psychiatric medications, I encourage my patients to utilize non-pharmacologic modalities including mindfulness techniques, supplements and herbal remedies.
I focus on the whole person, not a diagnosis. I take a trauma-informed approach my patients and look at mental illness as the result of the many difficult experiences that my patients have experienced. I understand the importance of lifestyle factors including the role of nutrition and exercise. In addition to prescribing psychiatric medications, I encourage my patients to utilize non-pharmacologic modalities including mindfulness techniques, supplements and herbal remedies.

Michelle Herron grew up in Helena, Montana. She has been specializing in psychiatric care for 13 years. Michelle graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Montana State University in 2022; she is passionate about providing inclusive psychiatric services to Montanans. Michelle believes that the provider and client work together to find an individualized treatment that promotes health, healing, and hope.
Michelle Herron grew up in Helena, Montana. She has been specializing in psychiatric care for 13 years. Michelle graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Montana State University in 2022; she is passionate about providing inclusive psychiatric services to Montanans. Michelle believes that the provider and client work together to find an individualized treatment that promotes health, healing, and hope.

We are dedicated to serving the mental health needs of pediatric and adult patients in our region. We aim to provide compassionate, thoughtful and comprehensive care by using an integrative approach that focuses on biological, psychological, and social factors that are unique to each patient. We provide Medication Management, TMS Therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato, Psychological Testing, and Therapy services across the state of Montana. Whatever your mental health needs are, our team at Montana Psychiatry will provide exemplary care to put you on the path to healing and enriched living.
We are dedicated to serving the mental health needs of pediatric and adult patients in our region. We aim to provide compassionate, thoughtful and comprehensive care by using an integrative approach that focuses on biological, psychological, and social factors that are unique to each patient. We provide Medication Management, TMS Therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato, Psychological Testing, and Therapy services across the state of Montana. Whatever your mental health needs are, our team at Montana Psychiatry will provide exemplary care to put you on the path to healing and enriched living.

Carol Milliken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, ADHD-SP, CFTP
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, an ADHD-certified clinical services provider, certified in family trauma therapy, emergency, critical care nursing and am a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, an ADHD-certified clinical services provider, certified in family trauma therapy, emergency, critical care nursing and am a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.

VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Montana state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99, Counseling $89-$129. Also accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Montana state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99, Counseling $89-$129. Also accepting some insurances.
See more therapy options for 59106
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 59106
< 10
Psychiatrists in 59106 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Coping Skills |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Women's Issues |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 59106 see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 59106?
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.