Psychiatrists in Waterloo, IA

Photo of Neelam Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Neelam Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
Waitlist for new clients
Neelam is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified in children, adolescent, and adult populations. Her goal is to partner with her patients for the best mental wellness outcome. Neelam has a wide range of experience including acute and crisis inpatient care. Her credentials include a BSN and MSN in Nursing at Allen College and a BSN in Psychology at Iowa State University.
Neelam is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified in children, adolescent, and adult populations. Her goal is to partner with her patients for the best mental wellness outcome. Neelam has a wide range of experience including acute and crisis inpatient care. Her credentials include a BSN and MSN in Nursing at Allen College and a BSN in Psychology at Iowa State University.
(319) 349-2629 View (319) 349-2629
Photo of Cassy Lensing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cassy Lensing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Waterloo, IA 50701
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated with my Master's of Science in Nursing in 2021 and have worked as a provider in the Cedar Valley in a variety of settings including corrections, community behavioral health, and caring for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Prior to obtaining my graduate degree, I worked as a psychiatric nurse for 8 years in correctional, inpatient mental health, outpatient, substance use/detox, and community-based treatment settings. I value my diverse work experience and believes that it assists me to meet individuals where they are at in life.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated with my Master's of Science in Nursing in 2021 and have worked as a provider in the Cedar Valley in a variety of settings including corrections, community behavioral health, and caring for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Prior to obtaining my graduate degree, I worked as a psychiatric nurse for 8 years in correctional, inpatient mental health, outpatient, substance use/detox, and community-based treatment settings. I value my diverse work experience and believes that it assists me to meet individuals where they are at in life.
(319) 253-2940 View (319) 253-2940
Photo of Tami Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Tami Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Waterloo, IA 50701
Accepting new clients. Tami works with individuals ages 14 to 64. It is important to her to help break the stigma around mental health in general. She is a compassionate and down to earth individual, giving her a natural ability to form and build relationships with others.
Accepting new clients. Tami works with individuals ages 14 to 64. It is important to her to help break the stigma around mental health in general. She is a compassionate and down to earth individual, giving her a natural ability to form and build relationships with others.
(319) 220-3673 View (319) 220-3673
Photo of Kelly Jo Scheffert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Kelly Jo Scheffert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
Not accepting new clients
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
(319) 820-4794 View (319) 820-4794
Photo of Dr. Morgan Staver - Holistic Behavioral Health of Iowa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, ARNP
Holistic Behavioral Health of Iowa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, ARNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Morgan Staver, founder of Holistic Behavioral Health of Iowa, and I believe that wellbeing exists on a spectrum and takes more than medications alone to achieve. I have dedicated my career to helping people through challenging life transitions.
Hi, I'm Morgan Staver, founder of Holistic Behavioral Health of Iowa, and I believe that wellbeing exists on a spectrum and takes more than medications alone to achieve. I have dedicated my career to helping people through challenging life transitions.
(319) 250-5480 View (319) 250-5480
Photo of Robert J Wright, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Robert J Wright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe in providing you with the best online psychiatric treatment that helps to improve your mental well-being without the need for insurance. This is why I offer professional telehealth services in Iowa for only $99 per session. Are you feeling depressed or stress out about life? Do you have trouble focusing on things that are affecting your work or school performance? I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals dealing with conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, dementia, Psychiatric Oncology, and many more. I am currently accepting new patients.
I believe in providing you with the best online psychiatric treatment that helps to improve your mental well-being without the need for insurance. This is why I offer professional telehealth services in Iowa for only $99 per session. Are you feeling depressed or stress out about life? Do you have trouble focusing on things that are affecting your work or school performance? I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals dealing with conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, dementia, Psychiatric Oncology, and many more. I am currently accepting new patients.
(319) 456-4628 View (319) 456-4628
Photo of Darnelle Scott - Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
(737) 520-7823 View (737) 520-7823
Photo of Veronica Holloway - Veronica Holloway , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Veronica Holloway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients! Taking the first steps towards improving your mental health can be intimidating. I sincerely want to help you in the journey to develop hope for the future, with renewed energy, strength and passion for life. I will be there helping and guiding you, to optimize your healing and health, with evidence based recommendations. Let's review your treatment goals and an action plan on how to achieve this. Please call to schedule your appointment 515-207-0110.
Accepting new patients! Taking the first steps towards improving your mental health can be intimidating. I sincerely want to help you in the journey to develop hope for the future, with renewed energy, strength and passion for life. I will be there helping and guiding you, to optimize your healing and health, with evidence based recommendations. Let's review your treatment goals and an action plan on how to achieve this. Please call to schedule your appointment 515-207-0110.
(319) 528-5111 View (319) 528-5111
Photo of Claudine Onsongo - Health Growth Behavioral Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Health Growth Behavioral Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50703
At Health Growth Behavioral Services, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team members work together to provide comprehensive and evidence-based treatment to our patients. We offer initial and follow up evaluations, medication management, and other services to help our patients achieve their goals. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
At Health Growth Behavioral Services, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team members work together to provide comprehensive and evidence-based treatment to our patients. We offer initial and follow up evaluations, medication management, and other services to help our patients achieve their goals. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
(346) 553-9633 View (346) 553-9633
Photo of Shelly Alasti, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Shelly Alasti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
3 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50703
My clients often face complex mental health issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, brain injury, sleep disorders, and substance use disorder. Many also struggle with weight management and the psychological factors associated with it, including emotional eating and stress. Their needs include effective medication management, therapeutic support, and strategies to improve daily functioning. My goals for them are to achieve improved mental health and overall well-being. The outcome will improve their quality of life, enhance their self-esteem, and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
My clients often face complex mental health issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, brain injury, sleep disorders, and substance use disorder. Many also struggle with weight management and the psychological factors associated with it, including emotional eating and stress. Their needs include effective medication management, therapeutic support, and strategies to improve daily functioning. My goals for them are to achieve improved mental health and overall well-being. The outcome will improve their quality of life, enhance their self-esteem, and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
(984) 207-1546 View (984) 207-1546
Photo of Angela Armstrong - Psych Nerds, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Psych Nerds, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I see clients ages 4 and up. I want to help anyone who thinks psychiatric medication may help them alleviate any psychiatric symptoms they may be experiencing. Or someone who has previously tried medications and has only had partial or no response to medication treatment.
I see clients ages 4 and up. I want to help anyone who thinks psychiatric medication may help them alleviate any psychiatric symptoms they may be experiencing. Or someone who has previously tried medications and has only had partial or no response to medication treatment.
(918) 723-7438 View (918) 723-7438
Photo of Queendroline Fundong Nkeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Queendroline Fundong Nkeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Queendroline Nkeh, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. She specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, and substance use disorders. With a patient-centered approach, she tailors treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring that they receive the support and guidance necessary for long-term well-being. Her therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based psychiatr
Queendroline Nkeh, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. She specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, and substance use disorders. With a patient-centered approach, she tailors treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring that they receive the support and guidance necessary for long-term well-being. Her therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based psychiatr
(319) 463-3566 View (319) 463-3566
Photo of Jenna Z Berendzen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Jenna Z Berendzen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
Extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health, helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International. She serves as an expert consultant and national speaker for Biogen-Sage, the maker of the first oral postpartum medication for PPD.
Extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health, helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International. She serves as an expert consultant and national speaker for Biogen-Sage, the maker of the first oral postpartum medication for PPD.
(319) 469-8951 View (319) 469-8951
Photo of Morgan Christy Huls, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, CFMP
Morgan Christy Huls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, CFMP
Serves Area
Morgan created Transcend out of a passion for holistic wellness. She believes in a mind-body approach to optimal mental health and offers clients personalized, integrative care in attempt to uncover the root cause of a condition. She offers her services through telemedicine and in-person.
Morgan created Transcend out of a passion for holistic wellness. She believes in a mind-body approach to optimal mental health and offers clients personalized, integrative care in attempt to uncover the root cause of a condition. She offers her services through telemedicine and in-person.
(319) 249-0924 View (319) 249-0924
Photo of Dr. Funmilola (Lola) Sijuade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Funmilola (Lola) Sijuade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Asking for help can be challenging but rewarding with educated and tailored services to your healthcare needs. Dr. Lola utilizes a holistic, evidence-based, and patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Psychiatric evaluation and possible medication management are offered for the following diagnoses- - 1. Anxiety 2. ADHD 3. PTSD 4. Bipolar 4. Schizophrenia 5. Adjustment disorders 6. Schizoaffective Disorders 7. Sleep issues 8. Conduct/oppositional disorders
Asking for help can be challenging but rewarding with educated and tailored services to your healthcare needs. Dr. Lola utilizes a holistic, evidence-based, and patient-centered approach to the management and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Psychiatric evaluation and possible medication management are offered for the following diagnoses- - 1. Anxiety 2. ADHD 3. PTSD 4. Bipolar 4. Schizophrenia 5. Adjustment disorders 6. Schizoaffective Disorders 7. Sleep issues 8. Conduct/oppositional disorders
(713) 364-1389 View (713) 364-1389
Photo of Zackary Ladson, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Zackary Ladson
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Online Only
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
I am a certified Physician Assistant and completed my master's degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. I have several years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician Assistant, operating as the sole medical practitioner of my outpatient community health clinic. I manage an extensive array of acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant portion of my practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders ranging from mild to severe.
(217) 262-1734 View (217) 262-1734
Photo of Ann Barbaro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ann Barbaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
(262) 587-6075 View (262) 587-6075
Photo of Alexx Kwilinski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Alexx Kwilinski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Serves Area
I am a dually board-certified nurse practitioner in mental health across the lifespan and adult health. I am committed to serving the mental health community. I have a special interest in holistic health and wellness. I have clinical interest in disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorders, addiction, substance abuse, eating disorders, personality disorders, and more. I offer appointments for individuals ages 6+.
I am a dually board-certified nurse practitioner in mental health across the lifespan and adult health. I am committed to serving the mental health community. I have a special interest in holistic health and wellness. I have clinical interest in disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorders, addiction, substance abuse, eating disorders, personality disorders, and more. I offer appointments for individuals ages 6+.
(319) 264-1858 View (319) 264-1858

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Oluwatosin Adebiyi - Mind Connection Behavioral Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Mind Connection Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Accepting New Clients in TEXAS, IOWA and KANSAS! Welcome to Mind Connection Behavioral Health where your mental health is our priority. We are committed to providing you with exceptional mental health and psychiatric services, and delivering high quality care to patients of all ages. Our goal is to make you feel valued and not numbered.
Accepting New Clients in TEXAS, IOWA and KANSAS! Welcome to Mind Connection Behavioral Health where your mental health is our priority. We are committed to providing you with exceptional mental health and psychiatric services, and delivering high quality care to patients of all ages. Our goal is to make you feel valued and not numbered.
(515) 705-5866 View (515) 705-5866
Photo of Breanna Millsap, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap, and schedule your free consultation today!
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap, and schedule your free consultation today!
(319) 246-5881 View (319) 246-5881

See more therapy options for Waterloo

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Waterloo, IA

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Waterloo, IA who prioritize treating:

78% Depression
78% Anxiety
78% ADHD
78% Bipolar Disorder
78% Medication Management
61% Stress
56% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
79% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Waterloo, IA see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Waterloo?

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.