Psychiatrists in Urbandale, IA

I offer gender-sensitive treatment for PTSD, ADHD, OCD, mood spectrum and psychoneuroendocrinological mental health disorders as well as any secondary substance or process addictions for cis, trans and biological women across the gender spectrum. This includes the psychiatric needs associated with gender-identity, puberty, premenstrual dysphoria, PCOS, sexual trauma, infertility, pregnancy loss, the perinatal and postpartum periods, birthing trauma, breastfeeding, parenting, breast, ovarian, cervical and uterine cancers, their treatment and survival and menopause.
I offer gender-sensitive treatment for PTSD, ADHD, OCD, mood spectrum and psychoneuroendocrinological mental health disorders as well as any secondary substance or process addictions for cis, trans and biological women across the gender spectrum. This includes the psychiatric needs associated with gender-identity, puberty, premenstrual dysphoria, PCOS, sexual trauma, infertility, pregnancy loss, the perinatal and postpartum periods, birthing trauma, breastfeeding, parenting, breast, ovarian, cervical and uterine cancers, their treatment and survival and menopause.

Patty Ferlitsch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.

Malkan is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to assisting clients in unlocking their innate potential and successfully navigating life's complex challenges. With an extensive background in psychiatry, Malkan offers personalized therapeutic strategies aimed at understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client. He utilizes an integrative approach, combining traditional psychiatric methods with innovative techniques to foster mental and emotional growth. His expertise extends to various areas, including mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, and personal development.
Malkan is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to assisting clients in unlocking their innate potential and successfully navigating life's complex challenges. With an extensive background in psychiatry, Malkan offers personalized therapeutic strategies aimed at understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client. He utilizes an integrative approach, combining traditional psychiatric methods with innovative techniques to foster mental and emotional growth. His expertise extends to various areas, including mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, and personal development.

Brooke Thielking
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I believe in the mind-body-spirit connection and this underlying philosophy emerges in my treatment approach. I provide medication management and utilize therapeutic communication techniques to help clients get to the root of their struggles.
I believe in the mind-body-spirit connection and this underlying philosophy emerges in my treatment approach. I provide medication management and utilize therapeutic communication techniques to help clients get to the root of their struggles.

Hello! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I serve adults experiencing mental health symptoms that are negatively impacting their daily lives. I offer medication management, TMS and esketamine (Spravato) treatments while using a holistic approach, along with evidence-based treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, women’s mental health disorders and more. My therapeutic style is welcoming, warm, nonjudgmental and respectful. I have received additional training from Post Partum Support International.
Hello! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I serve adults experiencing mental health symptoms that are negatively impacting their daily lives. I offer medication management, TMS and esketamine (Spravato) treatments while using a holistic approach, along with evidence-based treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, women’s mental health disorders and more. My therapeutic style is welcoming, warm, nonjudgmental and respectful. I have received additional training from Post Partum Support International.

Dr. Koithan is a leading board-certified psychiatrist practicing in the greater Des Moines area since 1993.
Dr. Koithan is a leading board-certified psychiatrist practicing in the greater Des Moines area since 1993.

I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, treatment and medication management for ages 5 and up. My goal is for people to feel comfortable and confident about their treatment plan. This is accomplished with open communication, active listening on my part, and trying to gain an understanding of what is important to you. Together we will come up with a plan of care that may involve medications, but also will look at other options for testing and treatment as needed. I want you to live a life that is meaningful to you.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, treatment and medication management for ages 5 and up. My goal is for people to feel comfortable and confident about their treatment plan. This is accomplished with open communication, active listening on my part, and trying to gain an understanding of what is important to you. Together we will come up with a plan of care that may involve medications, but also will look at other options for testing and treatment as needed. I want you to live a life that is meaningful to you.

Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.

Michelle Kubik is a licensed Physician Assistant (PA-C) and provides psychiatric care and medication management at Kingdom Counseling. Michelle completed her undergraduate degree at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. She graduated from Des Moines University in 2015 with her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Michelle worked as a provider in primary care for seven years where she found her passion caring for those struggling with their mental health.
Michelle Kubik is a licensed Physician Assistant (PA-C) and provides psychiatric care and medication management at Kingdom Counseling. Michelle completed her undergraduate degree at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. She graduated from Des Moines University in 2015 with her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Michelle worked as a provider in primary care for seven years where she found her passion caring for those struggling with their mental health.

Ruth Ann Powe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.

Stacy Wideman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
License states: CA, CO, DE, FL, IA, OR, TX, UT & WA. Accepting new patients. I have 25 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health. ANCC Board Certification Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Treatment and medication management for all specialties: Anxiety, Bipolar Depression, PTSD, Insomnia, OCD, Panic Disorders, and more. Most insurance accepted Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare East, Optum, Oxford, Oscar, Quest, & Carelon. Text or call 6782354853.
License states: CA, CO, DE, FL, IA, OR, TX, UT & WA. Accepting new patients. I have 25 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health. ANCC Board Certification Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Treatment and medication management for all specialties: Anxiety, Bipolar Depression, PTSD, Insomnia, OCD, Panic Disorders, and more. Most insurance accepted Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare East, Optum, Oxford, Oscar, Quest, & Carelon. Text or call 6782354853.

Nikki Roetman is a Dual Certified Nurse Practitioner who works with clients along the life span from age 12 yo to 65 yo experiencing mood disorders, ADHD, trauma, OCD, depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns. Nikki provides a safe, nonjudgmental environment for patients to discuss their unique challenges, ensuring each individual feels seen, understood and empowered. She integrates not only medication management, supportive therapy but also holistic approaches into her practice, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle improvements such as exercise, sleep and diet in achieving optimal mental health.
Nikki Roetman is a Dual Certified Nurse Practitioner who works with clients along the life span from age 12 yo to 65 yo experiencing mood disorders, ADHD, trauma, OCD, depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns. Nikki provides a safe, nonjudgmental environment for patients to discuss their unique challenges, ensuring each individual feels seen, understood and empowered. She integrates not only medication management, supportive therapy but also holistic approaches into her practice, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle improvements such as exercise, sleep and diet in achieving optimal mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or ADHD? Do you feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges, mood swings, or intrusive thoughts? You want to regain control, find emotional balance, and improve your daily life. Whether you’re navigating personal struggles, trauma, or relationship difficulties, you deserve compassionate, expert care tailored to your needs.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or ADHD? Do you feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges, mood swings, or intrusive thoughts? You want to regain control, find emotional balance, and improve your daily life. Whether you’re navigating personal struggles, trauma, or relationship difficulties, you deserve compassionate, expert care tailored to your needs.

Tricia Gabriel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311
Hello! I’m so glad you’re here. As a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing personalized, holistic care tailored to your unique mental health needs. My approach is rooted in understanding and supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and emotions. Together, we’ll work on fostering resilience, enhancing well-being, and building a path toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. Your journey to improved mental health starts with collaboration, and I’m here t
Hello! I’m so glad you’re here. As a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing personalized, holistic care tailored to your unique mental health needs. My approach is rooted in understanding and supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and emotions. Together, we’ll work on fostering resilience, enhancing well-being, and building a path toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. Your journey to improved mental health starts with collaboration, and I’m here t

Sarah Dowd Psychiatric Physician Assistant
Physician Assistant, MPAS-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Grimes, IA 50111
I am a Physician Assistant in outpatient psychiatry seeing primarily adult patients. Post-graduation from PA school I completed a psychiatric fellowship and obtained additional qualification in psychiatry. Over the past 7 years I have primarily practiced in outpatient psychiatry seeing patients with variety of mental health concerns. Recently I have also worked to obtain Perinatal Mental Health Certification.
I am a Physician Assistant in outpatient psychiatry seeing primarily adult patients. Post-graduation from PA school I completed a psychiatric fellowship and obtained additional qualification in psychiatry. Over the past 7 years I have primarily practiced in outpatient psychiatry seeing patients with variety of mental health concerns. Recently I have also worked to obtain Perinatal Mental Health Certification.

Hello! I am Jennifer Griffith, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with Cultivate Joy Psychiatry. Why Choose Cultivate Joy? Online sessions from the comfort of your home or office. Flexible scheduling with early morning or evening hours available. A caring approach where taking the time to listen to your needs is priority. Focus on working together to find a path to better mental health that works for you. All-in-one, psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy and addressing lifestyle changes!
Hello! I am Jennifer Griffith, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with Cultivate Joy Psychiatry. Why Choose Cultivate Joy? Online sessions from the comfort of your home or office. Flexible scheduling with early morning or evening hours available. A caring approach where taking the time to listen to your needs is priority. Focus on working together to find a path to better mental health that works for you. All-in-one, psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy and addressing lifestyle changes!

Hope Psychiatry & Associates, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hope Psychiatry & Associates is a Nurse Practitioner driven outpatient mental health clinic managed by our licensed-board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Bernard K. Marfo. Our provider collaborates with an experienced Psychiatrist to provide client-centered mental health services for children, adolescent, and adult. We pride ourselves in providing culturally competent individualized psychiatric and behavioral services through medication management and brief therapy. Let us help you feel the very best and live a happier life by taking the first step today.
Hope Psychiatry & Associates is a Nurse Practitioner driven outpatient mental health clinic managed by our licensed-board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Bernard K. Marfo. Our provider collaborates with an experienced Psychiatrist to provide client-centered mental health services for children, adolescent, and adult. We pride ourselves in providing culturally competent individualized psychiatric and behavioral services through medication management and brief therapy. Let us help you feel the very best and live a happier life by taking the first step today.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, CAN GET NEW PATIENTS IN WITHIN A WEEK! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, CAN GET NEW PATIENTS IN WITHIN A WEEK! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.

I'm Clint Webb. Through my telehealth psychiatric practice, I help people experiencing challenges stemming from trauma, mental health issues, family dynamics, or substance abuse. I utilize a wide variety of assessments when working with clients to understand what they're going through. I help my patients reach their goals using evidence-based treatments that include medication management, therapy and counseling. I'll help you gain the coping and communication skills to live a healthier, happier life.
I'm Clint Webb. Through my telehealth psychiatric practice, I help people experiencing challenges stemming from trauma, mental health issues, family dynamics, or substance abuse. I utilize a wide variety of assessments when working with clients to understand what they're going through. I help my patients reach their goals using evidence-based treatments that include medication management, therapy and counseling. I'll help you gain the coping and communication skills to live a healthier, happier life.

Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
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Nearby Searches for Urbandale
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Urbandale, IA
10+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in Urbandale, IA who prioritize treating:
92% | Medication Management |
83% | Depression |
83% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
42% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
73% | Wellmark BCBS |
64% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Urbandale, IA see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Urbandale?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.