Psychiatrists in 59714

Photo of Samantha Reed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Samantha Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Belgrade, MT 59714
Now taking pediatric referrals. Samantha began her career in patient care over a decade ago, later earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In 2017, she transitioned into Public Health Nursing, focusing on providing care for families with infants and children. During this time, she gained a deeper understanding of how health disparities are closely linked to social and economic inequities. Motivated to address these issues more comprehensively, Samantha pursued advanced education and earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Montana State University in 2023.
Now taking pediatric referrals. Samantha began her career in patient care over a decade ago, later earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In 2017, she transitioned into Public Health Nursing, focusing on providing care for families with infants and children. During this time, she gained a deeper understanding of how health disparities are closely linked to social and economic inequities. Motivated to address these issues more comprehensively, Samantha pursued advanced education and earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Montana State University in 2023.
(406) 720-8238 View (406) 720-8238
Photo of Erin Amato - Montana Psychiatry & Brain Health Center, Psychiatrist, MD
Montana Psychiatry & Brain Health Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(406) 630-7955 View (406) 630-7955
Photo of Fraser Ball - Ouroboros Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ouroboros Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Fraser Ball obtained her Bachelor's of Science in Nursing in 2017 from Montana State University. While working at Vanderbilt Medical Center, she realized that her true passion was in mental health. She graduated with her Master's of Science in Nursing in 2023 from University of North Dakota, and became a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Fraser Ball obtained her Bachelor's of Science in Nursing in 2017 from Montana State University. While working at Vanderbilt Medical Center, she realized that her true passion was in mental health. She graduated with her Master's of Science in Nursing in 2023 from University of North Dakota, and became a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(406) 812-7836 View (406) 812-7836
Photo of Asta Reindl, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Asta Reindl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Clients: Mental health is not one-size-fits-all, and neither is the care I provide. I’m Asta Reindl, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with Frontier Psychiatry, and I take a holistic approach that considers the whole person—your biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs, not just symptoms or diagnoses. I have a deep passion for working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, helping them navigate life’s challenges with compassion and support.
Accepting New Clients: Mental health is not one-size-fits-all, and neither is the care I provide. I’m Asta Reindl, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with Frontier Psychiatry, and I take a holistic approach that considers the whole person—your biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs, not just symptoms or diagnoses. I have a deep passion for working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, helping them navigate life’s challenges with compassion and support.
(406) 646-3771 View (406) 646-3771
Photo of Dr. Bethany Harper, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bethany Harper
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Matthew Thompson, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Matthew Thompson
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients - Please reach out any time. Many people suffer with their mental health and often suffer needlessly. I have been a psychiatrist since 2001 and have experience with many types of people, ages 18-118. I think it's important to take a "life story" approach to get a sense of someone's needs and to be able to develop an effective treatment plan, often in coordination with therapists, primary care providers, and specialists.
Accepting New Clients - Please reach out any time. Many people suffer with their mental health and often suffer needlessly. I have been a psychiatrist since 2001 and have experience with many types of people, ages 18-118. I think it's important to take a "life story" approach to get a sense of someone's needs and to be able to develop an effective treatment plan, often in coordination with therapists, primary care providers, and specialists.
(406) 344-7915 View (406) 344-7915

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dishina Singer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dishina Singer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I'm dedicated to guiding individuals through the turbulent waters of depression with empathy and understanding. Drawing from both clinical expertise and heartfelt compassion, I offer personalized care to ease the weight of despair and instill a sense of hope. Through a blend of medication, therapy, and supportive strategies, I walk alongside my patients, illuminating the path toward healing and emotional restoration. Together, we confront the shadows of depression, embracing the journey with courage and resilience, towards brighter days ahead.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I'm dedicated to guiding individuals through the turbulent waters of depression with empathy and understanding. Drawing from both clinical expertise and heartfelt compassion, I offer personalized care to ease the weight of despair and instill a sense of hope. Through a blend of medication, therapy, and supportive strategies, I walk alongside my patients, illuminating the path toward healing and emotional restoration. Together, we confront the shadows of depression, embracing the journey with courage and resilience, towards brighter days ahead.
(360) 364-5476 View (360) 364-5476
Photo of Wesley Ryan Gordon, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Wesley Ryan Gordon
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
We are a new medication management practice starting in 01/2026. Our psychiatric and wellness practice accepts clients from all backgrounds within the state of Montana. We offer treatment for psychiatric and addiction disorders as well as sexual health (PrEP/PEP/STI screening). This is a practice for anyone and everybody to be themselves.
We are a new medication management practice starting in 01/2026. Our psychiatric and wellness practice accepts clients from all backgrounds within the state of Montana. We offer treatment for psychiatric and addiction disorders as well as sexual health (PrEP/PEP/STI screening). This is a practice for anyone and everybody to be themselves.
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Photo of Jessica Rivera, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Jessica Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Bozeman, MT 59718
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.
(406) 356-0595 View (406) 356-0595
Photo of Megan Bowers, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Megan Bowers
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Bozeman, MT 59718
My approach is integrative, which means that treatment with medications may be combined with non-medication options, such as mindfulness-based interventions, life-style optimization, and nutritional supplementation. Together, we will develop an individualized well-being plan, which will incorporate your unique goals, and importantly, your perspective on health. My role is to offer these treatment options to you, and guide you as you make the decisions about which of these is aligned with your goals. All treatment options are evidence-informed, based on the medical and scientific literature.
My approach is integrative, which means that treatment with medications may be combined with non-medication options, such as mindfulness-based interventions, life-style optimization, and nutritional supplementation. Together, we will develop an individualized well-being plan, which will incorporate your unique goals, and importantly, your perspective on health. My role is to offer these treatment options to you, and guide you as you make the decisions about which of these is aligned with your goals. All treatment options are evidence-informed, based on the medical and scientific literature.
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Photo of Jiff (Jennifer) McAnally, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Jiff (Jennifer) McAnally
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
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.
(406) 431-1336 View (406) 431-1336
Photo of Mark McGrath, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Mark McGrath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many people imagine seeing a psychiatric provider as sitting in a stuffy office, lying on a couch, and being asked, “How do you feel?” That’s not my approach. I believe in having a friendly, open conversation where we focus on your core symptoms and explore how your environment and past experiences may be contributing to them. From there, we can work together to establish an accurate diagnosis and create a personalized medication plan—one designed to target your symptoms effectively without overmedicating you.
Many people imagine seeing a psychiatric provider as sitting in a stuffy office, lying on a couch, and being asked, “How do you feel?” That’s not my approach. I believe in having a friendly, open conversation where we focus on your core symptoms and explore how your environment and past experiences may be contributing to them. From there, we can work together to establish an accurate diagnosis and create a personalized medication plan—one designed to target your symptoms effectively without overmedicating you.
(406) 506-5294 View (406) 506-5294
Photo of Jamie Young, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Jamie Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Bozeman, MT 59715
“I provide personalized psychiatric care that is compassionate, practical, and grounded in collaboration. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and confident as we work together to find the right path toward stability and wellbeing.”
“I provide personalized psychiatric care that is compassionate, practical, and grounded in collaboration. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and confident as we work together to find the right path toward stability and wellbeing.”
(406) 510-1430 View (406) 510-1430
Photo of Rebecca Pogoda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Rebecca Pogoda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
With over 10 years of experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a specialized certification in Perinatal Mental Health, I am dedicated to supporting women, parents, and caregivers through the challenges of conception, pregnancy, and postpartum. I provide comprehensive evaluations, diagnoses, and tailored treatment options that integrate medication and therapy to effectively address mental health concerns.
With over 10 years of experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a specialized certification in Perinatal Mental Health, I am dedicated to supporting women, parents, and caregivers through the challenges of conception, pregnancy, and postpartum. I provide comprehensive evaluations, diagnoses, and tailored treatment options that integrate medication and therapy to effectively address mental health concerns.
(406) 612-6026 View (406) 612-6026
Photo of Alexis Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Alexis Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
I'm Alexis Adams, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about empowering individuals through their mental health journey. My educational background includes an MSN from Frontier Nursing University and a strong foundation in nursing and psychology from Colorado State University and the University of Colorado at Boulder. My clinical expertise spans various settings, including labor and delivery, neonatal intensive care, emergency care, and mental health. I pride myself on providing compassionate care to patients.
I'm Alexis Adams, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about empowering individuals through their mental health journey. My educational background includes an MSN from Frontier Nursing University and a strong foundation in nursing and psychology from Colorado State University and the University of Colorado at Boulder. My clinical expertise spans various settings, including labor and delivery, neonatal intensive care, emergency care, and mental health. I pride myself on providing compassionate care to patients.
(720) 707-1335 View (720) 707-1335
Photo of Wade G Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Wade G Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Bozeman, MT 59718
I offer complete psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children over 6 years of age and adults.
I offer complete psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children over 6 years of age and adults.
(406) 637-4483 View (406) 637-4483
Photo of Mary Cook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Mary Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Accepting new patients. Schedule appointment today at paintedhillspsychiatry.com. I’m Mary Cook, and I’m so glad you’re here. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my passion is helping people like you navigate the complexities of mental health with care and understanding. I believe in creating a warm and welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings. My approach is personalized, combining the latest evidence-based practices with a deep respect for your unique experiences and needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or just looking for a better way to manage stress.
Accepting new patients. Schedule appointment today at paintedhillspsychiatry.com. I’m Mary Cook, and I’m so glad you’re here. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my passion is helping people like you navigate the complexities of mental health with care and understanding. I believe in creating a warm and welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings. My approach is personalized, combining the latest evidence-based practices with a deep respect for your unique experiences and needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or just looking for a better way to manage stress.
(406) 982-0785 View (406) 982-0785
Photo of Alison Hall, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHS
Alison Hall
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHS
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Alison Hall, PA-C, MHS, is a licensed Physician Assistant with over twenty-four years of clinical experience as a Primary Care/Internal Medicine practitioner. She graduated from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut with a Masters in Health Science and Physician Studies in 1999. After using alternative medicine practices to heal herself from several autoimmune conditions, Alison began using these same practices to facilitate her clients to heal. She has studied Internal Family Systems, holotropic breathing and mindfulness, believing that these practices are a part of physical, emotional and psychological well-being.
Alison Hall, PA-C, MHS, is a licensed Physician Assistant with over twenty-four years of clinical experience as a Primary Care/Internal Medicine practitioner. She graduated from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut with a Masters in Health Science and Physician Studies in 1999. After using alternative medicine practices to heal herself from several autoimmune conditions, Alison began using these same practices to facilitate her clients to heal. She has studied Internal Family Systems, holotropic breathing and mindfulness, believing that these practices are a part of physical, emotional and psychological well-being.
(406) 991-4286 View (406) 991-4286
Photo of Holly L Gomez Levine - At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
Photo of Ryan Singer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ryan Singer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Living with bipolar disorder can feel like riding a rollercoaster blindfolded — thrilling one moment, terrifying the next. The highs may fill you with ideas, energy, and a sense of invincibility... but often, they come with racing thoughts and emotional overload. The lows, on the other hand, can feel like sinking into quicksand — heavy, dark, and isolating. Anxiety can sneak in like a fog, clouding every thought, every decision. It’s that knot in your stomach, the racing heart, the worry that won’t quit — even when everything “should” be fine
Living with bipolar disorder can feel like riding a rollercoaster blindfolded — thrilling one moment, terrifying the next. The highs may fill you with ideas, energy, and a sense of invincibility... but often, they come with racing thoughts and emotional overload. The lows, on the other hand, can feel like sinking into quicksand — heavy, dark, and isolating. Anxiety can sneak in like a fog, clouding every thought, every decision. It’s that knot in your stomach, the racing heart, the worry that won’t quit — even when everything “should” be fine
(206) 208-8526 View (206) 208-8526

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Nearby Searches for 59714

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 59714

< 10

Psychiatrists in 59714 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
83% ADHD
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
50% Grief

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medicaid
100% Allegiance

How Psychiatrists in 59714 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 59714?

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.