Psychiatrists in West Des Moines, IA

Photo of Clinton Webb - Embrace Health, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Embrace Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
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.
(515) 579-5046 View (515) 579-5046
Photo of Chelsea Greer, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsea Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Life can be hard. Finding mental health support can be even harder! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working in mental health- both inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional intensity, postpartum/prepartum issues, concentration/focus, sleep issues, etc., and would like to be evaluated for medication therapy to help you through, I am here to help. Change doesn't happen without change. Today is the day.
Life can be hard. Finding mental health support can be even harder! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working in mental health- both inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional intensity, postpartum/prepartum issues, concentration/focus, sleep issues, etc., and would like to be evaluated for medication therapy to help you through, I am here to help. Change doesn't happen without change. Today is the day.
(515) 493-7899 View (515) 493-7899
Photo of Erin L Bailey, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin L Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
I assist patients on their mental health journey through telehealth. Patients must have access to the internet and be able to participate in video appointments. I am open managing most diagnoses. I do not manage patients with involuntary court orders due to limitations of telehealth.
I assist patients on their mental health journey through telehealth. Patients must have access to the internet and be able to participate in video appointments. I am open managing most diagnoses. I do not manage patients with involuntary court orders due to limitations of telehealth.
(641) 381-5338 View (641) 381-5338
Photo of Kerri Patton - Luna Mental Health, PLLC , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Luna Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
My name is Kerri Patton. I love being a nurse practitioner. I have worked as one for over 17 years. I am dual certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have worked in many areas over the course of my career. One theme has been present no matter the setting; all health starts and stops with mental health. My hope is to help patients find as much quality in their life as possible while improving suffering that can come along with mental illness. This is why I opened Luna Mental Health.
My name is Kerri Patton. I love being a nurse practitioner. I have worked as one for over 17 years. I am dual certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have worked in many areas over the course of my career. One theme has been present no matter the setting; all health starts and stops with mental health. My hope is to help patients find as much quality in their life as possible while improving suffering that can come along with mental illness. This is why I opened Luna Mental Health.
(515) 620-4413 View (515) 620-4413
Luna Mental Health West Des Moines Iowa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Shyrl has had decades of providing direct patient care in the medical surgical and inpatient psychiatric settings, both adult and child units, focuses on patient-centered, holistic care by promoting harmonious, patient-provider relationship. She encourages collaboration in order to reach her patient's goals by presenting individualized treatment options, allowing the patient to guide the direction of treatment. Shyrl has inpatient and outpatient experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar mood disorders, schizophrenia, substance abuse,
Shyrl has had decades of providing direct patient care in the medical surgical and inpatient psychiatric settings, both adult and child units, focuses on patient-centered, holistic care by promoting harmonious, patient-provider relationship. She encourages collaboration in order to reach her patient's goals by presenting individualized treatment options, allowing the patient to guide the direction of treatment. Shyrl has inpatient and outpatient experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar mood disorders, schizophrenia, substance abuse,
(515) 373-5734 View (515) 373-5734
Photo of Jodi Henning, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jodi Henning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who provides mental health care to all ages. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and treatment options to improve symptomology of mental illness and promote self-efficacy. I bring over ten years of emergency and psychiatric nursing to my practice. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental environment. I value the importance of building lasting relationships through a working relationship.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who provides mental health care to all ages. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and treatment options to improve symptomology of mental illness and promote self-efficacy. I bring over ten years of emergency and psychiatric nursing to my practice. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental environment. I value the importance of building lasting relationships through a working relationship.
(515) 209-3796 View (515) 209-3796
Photo of Kellie Bement, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kellie Bement
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Panic and anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, personality disorders, bipolar depression, schizophrenia, mental health related to chronic illness, and more. My background in family practice facilitates monitoring and caring for mental health issues while considering presence or effects of acute and chronic illness which may be impacting mental health as a whole. Mental health is classically a tough subject for people-creating an environment of trust, comfort, and safety is foremost in care I provide. (As well, is a healthy dose of humor and freedom to be oneself.)
Panic and anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, personality disorders, bipolar depression, schizophrenia, mental health related to chronic illness, and more. My background in family practice facilitates monitoring and caring for mental health issues while considering presence or effects of acute and chronic illness which may be impacting mental health as a whole. Mental health is classically a tough subject for people-creating an environment of trust, comfort, and safety is foremost in care I provide. (As well, is a healthy dose of humor and freedom to be oneself.)
(515) 375-1131 View (515) 375-1131
Photo of Michelle Kubik, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Michelle Kubik
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
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.
(515) 882-6106 View (515) 882-6106
Photo of Angie Veenstra, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angie Veenstra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
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.
(515) 516-4895 View (515) 516-4895
Photo of Tara Smith, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
Tara Smith
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I have a passion for helping those with anxiety, depression, and trauma history. I provide care across the lifespan. I enjoy working with children and adolescents. I also have experience as a family nurse practitioner and various roles as a RN (women's health, labor and delivery, and child care).
I have a passion for helping those with anxiety, depression, and trauma history. I provide care across the lifespan. I enjoy working with children and adolescents. I also have experience as a family nurse practitioner and various roles as a RN (women's health, labor and delivery, and child care).
(515) 373-4768 View (515) 373-4768
Photo of Megan Eichmeier, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Eichmeier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Accepting new patients! My name is Megan Eichmeier. I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I've been working in mental health nursing for over 15 years. Empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment journey and make informed decisions about their mental health is my priority. I work with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, education, lifestyle modifications, and other evidence-based interventions.
Accepting new patients! My name is Megan Eichmeier. I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I've been working in mental health nursing for over 15 years. Empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment journey and make informed decisions about their mental health is my priority. I work with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, education, lifestyle modifications, and other evidence-based interventions.
(515) 690-6450 x1 View (515) 690-6450 x1
Photo of Elizabeth Brake, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Brake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Accepting NEW patients, we can get new patients in within a week! We 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, we can get new patients in within a week! We 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.
(515) 972-5158 View (515) 972-5158
Photo of Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Treatment Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alpha Allied Treatment Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
(515) 855-6659 View (515) 855-6659
Photo of Quentin Chambers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Quentin Chambers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265  (Online Only)
Hi, if you are dealing with issues from lack of focus, ability to pay attention. If you are dealing with a form of substance abuse or anxiety. I am here to help. I don't just give you medicine. I work with you to determine if you even need medication. Maybe it's certain vitamins that are missing in your system, we will discover and treat it together. If you are looking for someone who will be attentive to your concerns, I am the right provider for you.
Hi, if you are dealing with issues from lack of focus, ability to pay attention. If you are dealing with a form of substance abuse or anxiety. I am here to help. I don't just give you medicine. I work with you to determine if you even need medication. Maybe it's certain vitamins that are missing in your system, we will discover and treat it together. If you are looking for someone who will be attentive to your concerns, I am the right provider for you.
(515) 608-8787 View (515) 608-8787
Photo of Justin Janss, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Justin Janss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I am dedicated to exploring every possible avenue that contributes to your personal journey towards health and wellness. My approach focuses on viewing and treating each individual holistically, recognizing that healing comes from within. With this understanding, I acknowledge that there are numerous paths to achieving the health and happiness you seek. Within my private practice, we have the flexibility and capacity to thoroughly address all aspects influencing your overall well-being. Mental health is interconnected with physical, spiritual, relational, and energetic well-being.
I am dedicated to exploring every possible avenue that contributes to your personal journey towards health and wellness. My approach focuses on viewing and treating each individual holistically, recognizing that healing comes from within. With this understanding, I acknowledge that there are numerous paths to achieving the health and happiness you seek. Within my private practice, we have the flexibility and capacity to thoroughly address all aspects influencing your overall well-being. Mental health is interconnected with physical, spiritual, relational, and energetic well-being.
(515) 220-2954 View (515) 220-2954
Photo of Malkan Pilipovic, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Malkan Pilipovic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
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.
(515) 412-5112 View (515) 412-5112
Photo of Amanda Lantow, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Lantow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Not accepting new clients
Many of us have times during which we just cannot quite feel okay, whether it’s anxiety, depression, insomnia, dementia, or any number of other mental health difficulties. I would like to help you get to a mentally good place again! I do not seek to simply add medication to your daily life but to assess and determine if medication would be something that could help. I like to work with my patients, encouraging them to be a part of the decision-making process when it comes to medications. I will work with you to get you feeling the best you can.
Many of us have times during which we just cannot quite feel okay, whether it’s anxiety, depression, insomnia, dementia, or any number of other mental health difficulties. I would like to help you get to a mentally good place again! I do not seek to simply add medication to your daily life but to assess and determine if medication would be something that could help. I like to work with my patients, encouraging them to be a part of the decision-making process when it comes to medications. I will work with you to get you feeling the best you can.
(515) 890-5722 View (515) 890-5722
Photo of Danielle Penton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Penton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Danielle is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers comprehensive psychiatric care and medication management services. She emphasizes the significance of creating a safe and nonjudgmental environment, where individuals can feel welcomed and understood. Danielle's approach involves meeting each person at their own unique stage and collaborating with them to effectively manage symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan. She is currently accepting new patients.
Danielle is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers comprehensive psychiatric care and medication management services. She emphasizes the significance of creating a safe and nonjudgmental environment, where individuals can feel welcomed and understood. Danielle's approach involves meeting each person at their own unique stage and collaborating with them to effectively manage symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan. She is currently accepting new patients.
(515) 599-3205 View (515) 599-3205
Photo of Veronica Holloway - Veronica Holloway , MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veronica Holloway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265  (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 Tricia Gabriel, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tricia Gabriel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Hello! I’m delighted to connect with you. As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I prioritize delivering personalized care that meets your specific mental health needs. I support individuals facing significant mental health challenges and am committed to guiding you toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. My goal is to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. Together, we will work to foster mental well-being, improve daily functioning, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Hello! I’m delighted to connect with you. As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I prioritize delivering personalized care that meets your specific mental health needs. I support individuals facing significant mental health challenges and am committed to guiding you toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. My goal is to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. Together, we will work to foster mental well-being, improve daily functioning, and enhance your overall quality of life.
(515) 855-6200 View (515) 855-6200
1

See more therapy options for West Des Moines

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in West Des Moines, IA

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in West Des Moines, IA who prioritize treating:

87% Anxiety
83% Depression
74% Medication Management
70% ADHD
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
57% Bipolar Disorder
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Wellmark BCBS
83% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in West Des Moines, IA see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in West Des Moines?

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.