Psychiatrists in 59808

Photo of Marcus Robinson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marcus Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59808
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.
(406) 631-8908 x101 View (406) 631-8908 x101
Photo of Eric Dees, MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Eric Dees
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with individuals seeking to bring order to their lives as a result of mental health or substance use concerns. Many patients often struggle to achieve their health goals with one size fits all treatment and I work hard to break the mold and provide comprehensive, individualized care to each of my patients.
I work with individuals seeking to bring order to their lives as a result of mental health or substance use concerns. Many patients often struggle to achieve their health goals with one size fits all treatment and I work hard to break the mold and provide comprehensive, individualized care to each of my patients.
(406) 313-2398 View (406) 313-2398
Photo of Brandi Starks, MSN, PMHNP, CLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandi Starks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59808
If you're a woman who usually has everything under control but now feels overwhelmed by life's pressures, or a mother grappling with a new reality and feeling detached from your baby and family, you're not alone. Fathers experiencing mood swings and parents seeking support for a child with ADHD and behavioral challenges can find solace here.
If you're a woman who usually has everything under control but now feels overwhelmed by life's pressures, or a mother grappling with a new reality and feeling detached from your baby and family, you're not alone. Fathers experiencing mood swings and parents seeking support for a child with ADHD and behavioral challenges can find solace here.
(346) 584-3299 View (346) 584-3299
Photo of Jessica Rivera, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(406) 318-8178 View (406) 318-8178
Photo of Dessye-Dee Clark, APRN, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dessye-Dee Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
Are you creative, entrepreneurial, but struggle with focus, impulsivity, and productivity? Social anxiety and assertiveness? Would you like to optimize your potential and begin to do things that are meaningful and sustainable? Do you need somebody with expertise in psychopharmacology, who truly cares about your welfare, who will work closely with you and your primary therapist? Do you know a child or teen that needs urgent psychiatric assessment or stabilization after hospitalization? We understand developmental needs, neurosensory sensitivities, learning differences. We provide Trauma-informed care, always.
Are you creative, entrepreneurial, but struggle with focus, impulsivity, and productivity? Social anxiety and assertiveness? Would you like to optimize your potential and begin to do things that are meaningful and sustainable? Do you need somebody with expertise in psychopharmacology, who truly cares about your welfare, who will work closely with you and your primary therapist? Do you know a child or teen that needs urgent psychiatric assessment or stabilization after hospitalization? We understand developmental needs, neurosensory sensitivities, learning differences. We provide Trauma-informed care, always.
(406) 412-6934 View (406) 412-6934
Photo of Carly Hatfield - Carly Hatfield APRN, PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carly Hatfield APRN, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
My goal is to provide patient driven care that focuses on your primary concerns. I utilize psychiatric medication and education in order to care for you in a holistic manner. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship through active listening and understanding. I see myself as someone who is here to help you accomplish your goals.
My goal is to provide patient driven care that focuses on your primary concerns. I utilize psychiatric medication and education in order to care for you in a holistic manner. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship through active listening and understanding. I see myself as someone who is here to help you accomplish your goals.
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Photo of Steven K Elrod, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Anger, PTSD? A psychiatric evaluation and research-proven treatment could put you back on the path to recovery. Let's do this together.
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Anger, PTSD? A psychiatric evaluation and research-proven treatment could put you back on the path to recovery. Let's do this together.
(406) 743-3641 View (406) 743-3641
Photo of Nick Taylor, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nick Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(406) 693-4362 View (406) 693-4362
Photo of Michele Tulk, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michele Tulk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59801
Schedule online today via my website - evening and weekend visits available. I have 12 years of experience prescribing mental health medications as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am kind, safe, non-judgmental, and empathic. My style is client-centered where I function as a guide to help us find a sustainable medication regimen that you feel good about. I absolutely LOVE what I do.
Schedule online today via my website - evening and weekend visits available. I have 12 years of experience prescribing mental health medications as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am kind, safe, non-judgmental, and empathic. My style is client-centered where I function as a guide to help us find a sustainable medication regimen that you feel good about. I absolutely LOVE what I do.
(406) 476-7376 View (406) 476-7376
Photo of Kimberly J Berndt, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly J Berndt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS VIA TELEHEALTH-EXPERIENCED MEDICATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR CHILDREN THROUGH ADULTS.......I work with my clients to create a logical and effective treatment plan by offering medication options, solution focused therapy, and other available resources to promote positive outcomes using a holistic approach. Please email me with any questions or to request an online intake form for appointment scheduling.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS VIA TELEHEALTH-EXPERIENCED MEDICATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR CHILDREN THROUGH ADULTS.......I work with my clients to create a logical and effective treatment plan by offering medication options, solution focused therapy, and other available resources to promote positive outcomes using a holistic approach. Please email me with any questions or to request an online intake form for appointment scheduling.
(406) 416-5310 View (406) 416-5310
Photo of Lisa M Turk, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa M Turk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Montana Patients! ANCC Board Certified in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner; Family Nurse Practitioner Specializes in Mental Health and bringing you and your family peace of mind with medication management. Get personalized mental healthcare from a real person with just a click of a button. Lisa has decades of professional experience in the medical field and ingrained affinity for providing consistent care for the emotional & physical well-being of her patients. With her Native heritage and passion for caring for her fellow Montanans.
Accepting New Montana Patients! ANCC Board Certified in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner; Family Nurse Practitioner Specializes in Mental Health and bringing you and your family peace of mind with medication management. Get personalized mental healthcare from a real person with just a click of a button. Lisa has decades of professional experience in the medical field and ingrained affinity for providing consistent care for the emotional & physical well-being of her patients. With her Native heritage and passion for caring for her fellow Montanans.
(406) 747-0404 View (406) 747-0404
Photo of Mimi L Morris, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mimi L Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
I am accepting a limited number of new patients at this time. I do psychiatric evaluations for the purpose of medication management. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to, ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar II disorder, OCD, and PTSD. I am very invested in what I do, and try to work collaboratively with my patients to come up with the best individualized treatment for every patient I see.
I am accepting a limited number of new patients at this time. I do psychiatric evaluations for the purpose of medication management. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to, ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar II disorder, OCD, and PTSD. I am very invested in what I do, and try to work collaboratively with my patients to come up with the best individualized treatment for every patient I see.
(406) 360-6086 View (406) 360-6086
Photo of Shannon Scally - SPMH & Scally Health and Wellness PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SPMH & Scally Health and Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59804
As board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, we work to engage in a unique therapeutic relationship. Our focus is to perform a thorough assessment, diagnosis and evaluation to provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy using a collaborative approach. Overall, we welcome you to come as you are, together, we can reach your mental health goals. Mental health care is an essential piece of overall health.
As board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, we work to engage in a unique therapeutic relationship. Our focus is to perform a thorough assessment, diagnosis and evaluation to provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy using a collaborative approach. Overall, we welcome you to come as you are, together, we can reach your mental health goals. Mental health care is an essential piece of overall health.
(406) 510-2782 View (406) 510-2782
Photo of Angela Schell, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Schell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
Not accepting new clients
Angela is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner serving individuals in the state of Montana. Prior to graduating Montana State University with a doctoral degree in psychiatric/mental health nursing practice, Angela worked as an acute care psychiatric nurse within Montana's largest health care system. Through this experience, Angela developed an interest in caring for individuals with comorbid psychiatric and substance abuse issues.
Angela is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner serving individuals in the state of Montana. Prior to graduating Montana State University with a doctoral degree in psychiatric/mental health nursing practice, Angela worked as an acute care psychiatric nurse within Montana's largest health care system. Through this experience, Angela developed an interest in caring for individuals with comorbid psychiatric and substance abuse issues.
(406) 272-8178 View (406) 272-8178
Photo of Tawanda Bostic - New Heights Behavioral Health, PLLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Heights Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
AS Seen On: NBC, CBS, FOX, and USA Today. Anxiety, Stress, Depression, and Trauma are challenges that can make life hard. You feel lost. Your relationships and work suffer, and eventually, your overall health declines. You can barely get out of bed because you don't feel motivated. Pain is inevitable but suffering is unnecessary. Working together, you'll discover your strengths and the tools necessary to help you overcome obstacles stopping you from showing up in the world and living your best life.
AS Seen On: NBC, CBS, FOX, and USA Today. Anxiety, Stress, Depression, and Trauma are challenges that can make life hard. You feel lost. Your relationships and work suffer, and eventually, your overall health declines. You can barely get out of bed because you don't feel motivated. Pain is inevitable but suffering is unnecessary. Working together, you'll discover your strengths and the tools necessary to help you overcome obstacles stopping you from showing up in the world and living your best life.
(206) 438-9716 View (206) 438-9716
Photo of Nicole Faessel Aprn, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Faessel Aprn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Schedule today directly ONLINE 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.
Schedule today directly ONLINE 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.
(406) 319-3476 View (406) 319-3476
Photo of Carly Hillenbrand, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carly Hillenbrand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I was raised in a small town in eastern Montana. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Montana State University in 2012 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (psych/mental health) from Montana State University in 2016. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health and have worked with a variety of patients throughout my practice. I believe recovery blossoms when there is a trusting and therapeutic relationship between patient and provider.
I was raised in a small town in eastern Montana. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Montana State University in 2012 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (psych/mental health) from Montana State University in 2016. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health and have worked with a variety of patients throughout my practice. I believe recovery blossoms when there is a trusting and therapeutic relationship between patient and provider.
(406) 420-8869 View (406) 420-8869
Photo of Lacey Bond Fisher, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lacey Bond Fisher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Bond Integrated Health and Wellness, LLC was established in 2024. While working in community mental health, I recognized the need for an alternative approach to treatment of individuals and families of those struggling with mental illness and substance abuse. BIHW incorporates comprehensive, evidence-based, holistic care focused on mental illness. I provide medication management services as well as recommendations regarding healthy lifestyle choices in order to promote optimal health and well-being.
Bond Integrated Health and Wellness, LLC was established in 2024. While working in community mental health, I recognized the need for an alternative approach to treatment of individuals and families of those struggling with mental illness and substance abuse. BIHW incorporates comprehensive, evidence-based, holistic care focused on mental illness. I provide medication management services as well as recommendations regarding healthy lifestyle choices in order to promote optimal health and well-being.
(970) 717-0477 View (970) 717-0477
Photo of Michelle Herron, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Herron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(406) 991-1616 View (406) 991-1616

Nearby Searches for 59808

See More Psychiatrists

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 59808

< 10

Psychiatrists in 59808 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Medication Management
75% Depression
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Psychosis

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 59808 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 59808?

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.