Psychiatrists in 68135

Photo of Akpene Abalekpor, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Akpene Abalekpor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68135
Do you find yourself struggling to balance your life and job? Are you struggling with Anxiety or depression? I'm here to help you. When it comes to mental wellness, I believe you need a special person to partner with on your journey. Know that you don't have to go through these challenges alone. My goal is to listen to you, spend more time with you, and provide individualized treatment plans.
Do you find yourself struggling to balance your life and job? Are you struggling with Anxiety or depression? I'm here to help you. When it comes to mental wellness, I believe you need a special person to partner with on your journey. Know that you don't have to go through these challenges alone. My goal is to listen to you, spend more time with you, and provide individualized treatment plans.
(402) 795-8981 View (402) 795-8981
Photo of Cari Ott, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cari Ott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
“You are a human being; you are not a diagnosis.” I believe that each person deserves to find a provider who will truly listen to their story in order to achieve the best treatment and recovery possible. If you are looking for a holistic provider who will listen to your story and consider your entire symptom profile, I may be the perfect fit for you. Together, we can develop a treatment plan to improve your mental health and wellness.
“You are a human being; you are not a diagnosis.” I believe that each person deserves to find a provider who will truly listen to their story in order to achieve the best treatment and recovery possible. If you are looking for a holistic provider who will listen to your story and consider your entire symptom profile, I may be the perfect fit for you. Together, we can develop a treatment plan to improve your mental health and wellness.
(531) 228-4913 View (531) 228-4913

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kelsey Brisbin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelsey Brisbin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Kelsey Brisbin. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I like to take a collaborative approach with my patients. I believe in making individual medication choices based on the needs of each client. I work with each client individually and collaboratively to make treatment decisions. I believe in compassionate care and hearing each client's needs. I work with all ages children through geriatric populations. I am comfortable treating all psychiatry conditions, but specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
My name is Kelsey Brisbin. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I like to take a collaborative approach with my patients. I believe in making individual medication choices based on the needs of each client. I work with each client individually and collaboratively to make treatment decisions. I believe in compassionate care and hearing each client's needs. I work with all ages children through geriatric populations. I am comfortable treating all psychiatry conditions, but specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
(402) 623-6999 View (402) 623-6999
Photo of Marisha L VanVleet - Silver Sage Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Silver Sage Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I enjoy helping people...period. I am credentialed for all ages from very young to the elderly and have worked with all ages. For patients that do need medication; I use a conservative approach and monitor closely until they are stable. My medication management patients do get some therapy in their follow up sessions, because this assists me in evaluating the effectiveness of the medication. If I am not able to help a patient, I will try to find someone else who is a better fit for them. I believe in a community approach for patients, it does take us all working together!
I enjoy helping people...period. I am credentialed for all ages from very young to the elderly and have worked with all ages. For patients that do need medication; I use a conservative approach and monitor closely until they are stable. My medication management patients do get some therapy in their follow up sessions, because this assists me in evaluating the effectiveness of the medication. If I am not able to help a patient, I will try to find someone else who is a better fit for them. I believe in a community approach for patients, it does take us all working together!
(402) 898-1113 View (402) 898-1113
Photo of Jessica Hilbert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Hilbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Jessica Hilbert and I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of varied professional mental health experience. I'm also a Veteran and a married mom of two. I love animals, being outdoors, and being active. I work with people from 12 yrs old to those into their 60's. I have worked passionately advocating for Veterans and those in the LGBTQ+ community. I'm also passionate about helping women going through perimenopause and menopause and struggling with their mental health.
My name is Jessica Hilbert and I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of varied professional mental health experience. I'm also a Veteran and a married mom of two. I love animals, being outdoors, and being active. I work with people from 12 yrs old to those into their 60's. I have worked passionately advocating for Veterans and those in the LGBTQ+ community. I'm also passionate about helping women going through perimenopause and menopause and struggling with their mental health.
(402) 519-2402 View (402) 519-2402
Photo of James Hogle - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(402) 940-8128 View (402) 940-8128
Photo of Anne Hofer - Her Story Women's Mental Health Services, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Her Story Women's Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Not accepting new clients
Some of our offerings and specialties include telemedicine, psychiatric medication management for teens and adults, psychiatric evaluations, referral to individual and group therapies, pre-conception counseling, medication management during pregnancy, and treatment for postpartum disorders.
Some of our offerings and specialties include telemedicine, psychiatric medication management for teens and adults, psychiatric evaluations, referral to individual and group therapies, pre-conception counseling, medication management during pregnancy, and treatment for postpartum disorders.
(402) 704-3062 View (402) 704-3062
Photo of Alesha Graves, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alesha Graves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
Seeking out care for mental health can be difficult and scary. I strive to provide optimal medication management to those with mental health struggles. I work with patients to come up with a plan of care together that best fits their needs in the present moment and goals for the future. I enjoy helping those regain control of and improve their quality of life. I provide a relaxed and nonjudgmental environment for you to be able to express your concerns and needs.
Seeking out care for mental health can be difficult and scary. I strive to provide optimal medication management to those with mental health struggles. I work with patients to come up with a plan of care together that best fits their needs in the present moment and goals for the future. I enjoy helping those regain control of and improve their quality of life. I provide a relaxed and nonjudgmental environment for you to be able to express your concerns and needs.
(402) 744-6287 View (402) 744-6287
Photo of Dr. Lois Walters-Threat, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Lois Walters-Threat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68105
Thank you for taking the time to explore your mental health journey and for considering me as part of your support team. Reaching out for help is often one of the hardest yet most powerful steps you can take, and I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you are here for the first time or returning to mental health care, I’m truly honored to walk alongside you on this path. As your psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, holistic, and personalized care to each of my clients.
Thank you for taking the time to explore your mental health journey and for considering me as part of your support team. Reaching out for help is often one of the hardest yet most powerful steps you can take, and I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you are here for the first time or returning to mental health care, I’m truly honored to walk alongside you on this path. As your psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, holistic, and personalized care to each of my clients.
(402) 696-6875 x10 View (402) 696-6875 x10
Photo of Cheri D. Jenkins, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, LMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cheri D. Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, LMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
Cheri (she/her) is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the founder of a highly regarded psychiatric practice, honored as the top choice in BusinessRate's Best of 2024 for psychiatrists. She empowers teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, and self-sabotage. Cheri’s holistic approach blends evidence-based therapies, nutrition, and mind-body techniques for tailored care. If you're feeling overwhelmed, her compassionate guidance can help you embrace growth and find a brighter path. Reach out today for the exceptional support you deserve on your healing journey.
Cheri (she/her) is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the founder of a highly regarded psychiatric practice, honored as the top choice in BusinessRate's Best of 2024 for psychiatrists. She empowers teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, and self-sabotage. Cheri’s holistic approach blends evidence-based therapies, nutrition, and mind-body techniques for tailored care. If you're feeling overwhelmed, her compassionate guidance can help you embrace growth and find a brighter path. Reach out today for the exceptional support you deserve on your healing journey.
(531) 530-3204 View (531) 530-3204
Photo of Sherri Taylor, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherri Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elkhorn, NE 68022
I have been providing medical care for over 30 years as a registered nurse. I have cared for patients at every stage of life from beginning to end. It has been a rewarding career. My practice philosophy as a nurse practitioner is much the same as it was as a nurse. I want to continue to be compassionate in my care for others. On your first visit, I like to gather your medical and mental health history so we can target your most problematic issues or concerns together. To accomplish your treatment goals, I need to understand where you have been, where you are, and where you want to be in the future.
I have been providing medical care for over 30 years as a registered nurse. I have cared for patients at every stage of life from beginning to end. It has been a rewarding career. My practice philosophy as a nurse practitioner is much the same as it was as a nurse. I want to continue to be compassionate in my care for others. On your first visit, I like to gather your medical and mental health history so we can target your most problematic issues or concerns together. To accomplish your treatment goals, I need to understand where you have been, where you are, and where you want to be in the future.
(402) 382-9847 View (402) 382-9847
Photo of Latrice Martin, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Latrice Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNM
Verified Verified
Papillion, NE 68046
Need help with weight loss? NOW Offering Medical Weight Loss Options! Lacking energy? Hormone levels feel off? Now offering Deficiency Lab work, IV Hydration/Vitamin Shots! Current, recent, or past trauma keeping you from living your best life? Now offering Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)! Life is a Journey! Life is about LIVING. We can't know what is coming and we need to enjoy every day instead of trying to “arrive.” We should enjoy the unfolding and the process. Whole person health is certainly not a journey you can take alone. Not everyone needs to know the details, but having a circle of people who care is essential.
Need help with weight loss? NOW Offering Medical Weight Loss Options! Lacking energy? Hormone levels feel off? Now offering Deficiency Lab work, IV Hydration/Vitamin Shots! Current, recent, or past trauma keeping you from living your best life? Now offering Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)! Life is a Journey! Life is about LIVING. We can't know what is coming and we need to enjoy every day instead of trying to “arrive.” We should enjoy the unfolding and the process. Whole person health is certainly not a journey you can take alone. Not everyone needs to know the details, but having a circle of people who care is essential.
(402) 523-2876 View (402) 523-2876
Photo of Kimberly Camp-Grimit, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Camp-Grimit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68130
Over the past 18 years of practice, the most rewarding part of my career has been seeing patients achieve their occupational, personal and spiritual goals through the management of their psychiatric symptoms. I work with patients to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses the symptoms that are causing difficulty in their lives.
Over the past 18 years of practice, the most rewarding part of my career has been seeing patients achieve their occupational, personal and spiritual goals through the management of their psychiatric symptoms. I work with patients to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses the symptoms that are causing difficulty in their lives.
(402) 281-9304 View (402) 281-9304
Photo of Hailey Battle, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hailey Battle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Nurse Practitioner Hailey Battle believes in practicing self-compassion, embracing imperfections, and cultivating resiliency. Working with clients, she strives to help them understand their treatment options, navigate their mental health goals, and most importantly, live wholeheartedly. Given her clinical practice experience, she has a firm understanding of medications (psychopharmacology), their safety considerations, and their effects on individuals. NP Battle's approach to care includes creating a unique treatment plan, including medication management and non-pharmacological interventions.
Nurse Practitioner Hailey Battle believes in practicing self-compassion, embracing imperfections, and cultivating resiliency. Working with clients, she strives to help them understand their treatment options, navigate their mental health goals, and most importantly, live wholeheartedly. Given her clinical practice experience, she has a firm understanding of medications (psychopharmacology), their safety considerations, and their effects on individuals. NP Battle's approach to care includes creating a unique treatment plan, including medication management and non-pharmacological interventions.
(531) 202-3779 View (531) 202-3779
Photo of Amanda Butler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Amanda is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner focusing on the adult patient population. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she diagnoses and treats individuals experiencing mental health conditions by providing psychiatric evaluations, supportive psychotherapy, and medication management. She treats various mental health concerns, such as mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
Amanda is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner focusing on the adult patient population. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she diagnoses and treats individuals experiencing mental health conditions by providing psychiatric evaluations, supportive psychotherapy, and medication management. She treats various mental health concerns, such as mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
(402) 940-8059 View (402) 940-8059
Photo of Kacy Walther, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kacy Walther
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
Kacy Walther is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Kacy started her career working in behavioral health in 2010 when she first started as a mental health technician. Kacy then worked as a psychiatric nurse in a variety of settings including psychiatric intensive care unit, child adolescent behavioral units, emergency room psychiatric setting, adult/geriatric behavioral units for 8 years prior to becoming a PMHNP. Kacy enjoys helping patients achieve the best possible outcome in their mental health care to promote healing and enhance quality of life through medication management and other lifestyle modifications.
Kacy Walther is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Kacy started her career working in behavioral health in 2010 when she first started as a mental health technician. Kacy then worked as a psychiatric nurse in a variety of settings including psychiatric intensive care unit, child adolescent behavioral units, emergency room psychiatric setting, adult/geriatric behavioral units for 8 years prior to becoming a PMHNP. Kacy enjoys helping patients achieve the best possible outcome in their mental health care to promote healing and enhance quality of life through medication management and other lifestyle modifications.
(402) 621-4372 View (402) 621-4372
Photo of Lindsey M Ramirez, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsey M Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68104
I treat patients between the age of 19 - 60 who may be struggling with a variety of mental health problems ranging from depression, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, substance use and much more. I believe that whole health must start with mental health and that physical and mental health are intricately intertwined.
I treat patients between the age of 19 - 60 who may be struggling with a variety of mental health problems ranging from depression, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, substance use and much more. I believe that whole health must start with mental health and that physical and mental health are intricately intertwined.
(402) 735-5440 View (402) 735-5440
Photo of Janet M Bock - Lifespan Counseling Omaha,LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lifespan Counseling Omaha,LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68118
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, see patients across the lifespan, children (age 6) through advanced adulthood, who need assistance with diagnostics and medication management.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, see patients across the lifespan, children (age 6) through advanced adulthood, who need assistance with diagnostics and medication management.
(402) 732-2812 View (402) 732-2812
Photo of Amber Johnson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who firmly believes that mental health is just as crucial as physical health, recognizing that nurturing our minds is vital for overall well-being. I have provided supportive, non-judgmental, and therapeutic mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults in inpatient settings as a nurse for many years. My experience has enhanced my cultural competence, proficiency in crisis management, and my ability to educate and encourage patients effectively.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who firmly believes that mental health is just as crucial as physical health, recognizing that nurturing our minds is vital for overall well-being. I have provided supportive, non-judgmental, and therapeutic mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults in inpatient settings as a nurse for many years. My experience has enhanced my cultural competence, proficiency in crisis management, and my ability to educate and encourage patients effectively.
(402) 771-4875 View (402) 771-4875
Photo of Alicia Theilen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Theilen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
Now accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? The first steps taken toward healing may be intimidating, however, you do not have to make the journey alone. I am here to guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in cultivating a strong therapeutic partnership built on trust and respect. Together, a treatment plan will be created and tailored to fit you utilizing medication management. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
Now accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? The first steps taken toward healing may be intimidating, however, you do not have to make the journey alone. I am here to guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in cultivating a strong therapeutic partnership built on trust and respect. Together, a treatment plan will be created and tailored to fit you utilizing medication management. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
(402) 685-8214 View (402) 685-8214

See more therapy options for 68135

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 68135

< 10

Psychiatrists in 68135 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
50% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 68135 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 68135?

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.