Psychiatrists in Boise, ID

Christopher Jankowski is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Master’s in Nursing from Graceland University and an undergraduate degree from Boise State University. He specializes in psychopharmacological management for adults, adolescents, and children. He has over 10 years of experience in various healthcare settings, including outpatient psychiatry, community health, emergency care, and inpatient hospital care.
Christopher Jankowski is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Master’s in Nursing from Graceland University and an undergraduate degree from Boise State University. He specializes in psychopharmacological management for adults, adolescents, and children. He has over 10 years of experience in various healthcare settings, including outpatient psychiatry, community health, emergency care, and inpatient hospital care.

Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.

I opened Boise Ketamine Clinic over 8 years ago after losing a loved one to suicide. I read a study on ketamine for suicidal ER patients and the results were astounding, a 70% remission in 24 hours after a single ketamine dose. I opened BKC as a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) and returned to school to obtain my PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I served a three year board term for the non-profit, American Society of Ketamine Practitioners. I then completed Integrative Psychiatry Institute Certificate Program for guiding non-ordinary states journeys and legal psychedelic medicine work.
I opened Boise Ketamine Clinic over 8 years ago after losing a loved one to suicide. I read a study on ketamine for suicidal ER patients and the results were astounding, a 70% remission in 24 hours after a single ketamine dose. I opened BKC as a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) and returned to school to obtain my PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner). I served a three year board term for the non-profit, American Society of Ketamine Practitioners. I then completed Integrative Psychiatry Institute Certificate Program for guiding non-ordinary states journeys and legal psychedelic medicine work.

VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Idaho for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Insurances accepted.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Idaho for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Insurances accepted.

Dumu Psychiatry LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704
As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner the most significant part of my work is to provide a healing presence. Healing presence is being consciously and compassionately in the present moment with another or with others, believing in and affirming their potential for wholeness, wherever they are in life. I have found this an invaluable tool when dealing with patients in a mental crisis. It has helped me dismantle mistrust, helped me create rapport, helped me creating a lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients. When you are completely present, you stay awake to each unfolding moment.
As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner the most significant part of my work is to provide a healing presence. Healing presence is being consciously and compassionately in the present moment with another or with others, believing in and affirming their potential for wholeness, wherever they are in life. I have found this an invaluable tool when dealing with patients in a mental crisis. It has helped me dismantle mistrust, helped me create rapport, helped me creating a lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients. When you are completely present, you stay awake to each unfolding moment.

At the heart of my practice lies a commitment to person-centered care. I am guided by evidence-based practices, ensuring that our journey is grounded in approaches backed by research and proven effectiveness. Your path towards mental wellness is unique, and it deserves a tailored approach that resonates with your individual needs and experiences. While therapy modalities play a crucial role in addressing underlying issues and fostering resilience, I also understand that for some, medication can be an essential tool in managing symptoms and restoring balance.
At the heart of my practice lies a commitment to person-centered care. I am guided by evidence-based practices, ensuring that our journey is grounded in approaches backed by research and proven effectiveness. Your path towards mental wellness is unique, and it deserves a tailored approach that resonates with your individual needs and experiences. While therapy modalities play a crucial role in addressing underlying issues and fostering resilience, I also understand that for some, medication can be an essential tool in managing symptoms and restoring balance.

Have you been considering medications for OCD, depression or anxiety but not sure if this is the route for you? Do you have questions about what may be the best medication option for you? I understand, and I can help. Together, we can explore those questions and so much more. I focus on working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stressors, or life changes who want a collaborative approach to their mental healthcare. Together, we can create a welcoming and supportive relationship so that you can take an active role in your wellness.
Have you been considering medications for OCD, depression or anxiety but not sure if this is the route for you? Do you have questions about what may be the best medication option for you? I understand, and I can help. Together, we can explore those questions and so much more. I focus on working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stressors, or life changes who want a collaborative approach to their mental healthcare. Together, we can create a welcoming and supportive relationship so that you can take an active role in your wellness.

Now accepting new clients! Are you exhausted by the constant mind-jumping of ADHD? Have you felt the weight of crippling anxiety or the depths of depression? When life becomes suffocating, medication can often serve as the jumpstart you need to get you back to where you want to be. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, and mood disorders wondering if medication could help. Whether you’ve tried it before or are considering it for the first time, we’ll create a plan to help you feel more balanced, focused, and in control.
Now accepting new clients! Are you exhausted by the constant mind-jumping of ADHD? Have you felt the weight of crippling anxiety or the depths of depression? When life becomes suffocating, medication can often serve as the jumpstart you need to get you back to where you want to be. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, and mood disorders wondering if medication could help. Whether you’ve tried it before or are considering it for the first time, we’ll create a plan to help you feel more balanced, focused, and in control.

Stephan France at Resilient Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
Welcome to Resilient Health Psychiatry. I am Stephan France, an experienced board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I will ensure that your mental health needs are addressed with empathy and expertise. Through tailored treatment plans and attentive support, patients can anticipate a nurturing atmosphere where your concerns are understood and your values are respected. I will work with you to support and empower you as you learn to decrease the frequency and intensity of disruptive thoughts and behaviors. Thank you for visiting Resilient Health Psychiatry, where your journey to mental health resilience begins!
Welcome to Resilient Health Psychiatry. I am Stephan France, an experienced board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I will ensure that your mental health needs are addressed with empathy and expertise. Through tailored treatment plans and attentive support, patients can anticipate a nurturing atmosphere where your concerns are understood and your values are respected. I will work with you to support and empower you as you learn to decrease the frequency and intensity of disruptive thoughts and behaviors. Thank you for visiting Resilient Health Psychiatry, where your journey to mental health resilience begins!

Frances Spink
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Idaho! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason. Is it hard to fall asleep at night, or do you wake up multiple times, which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
Accepting new patients from anywhere in Idaho! Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason. Is it hard to fall asleep at night, or do you wake up multiple times, which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.

Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Featherstone (Rachel) Featherstone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, WHNP-BC, MSN, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Parenting is a journey--you don't have to do it alone. Originally, the mission of Eucalyptus Health focused on parents, but the need for affirming psychiatric providers for the LGBTQIA+ community and veterans became increasingly apparent. Given my knowledge base of the brain, hormones, sexuality, gender roles, eating disorders, and pregnancy, as well as my lived experience as a nonbinary person and Army veteran, I am delighted to help people get back to enjoying their lives to the fullest.
Parenting is a journey--you don't have to do it alone. Originally, the mission of Eucalyptus Health focused on parents, but the need for affirming psychiatric providers for the LGBTQIA+ community and veterans became increasingly apparent. Given my knowledge base of the brain, hormones, sexuality, gender roles, eating disorders, and pregnancy, as well as my lived experience as a nonbinary person and Army veteran, I am delighted to help people get back to enjoying their lives to the fullest.

I love working with children and families. I also love working with developmentally delayed children and adults. I will see all ages of clients though. I believe that every client I see wants to be as functional as the people that they see around them. My goal is to get them to a place where they feel that they can function within their role in society and feel fulfilled. Everyone in this world needs validation and to feel loved and needed. Often when we are struggling with mental health issues, those needs aren't being met. I want to get my patients to a place where they functioning and meeting those needs.
I love working with children and families. I also love working with developmentally delayed children and adults. I will see all ages of clients though. I believe that every client I see wants to be as functional as the people that they see around them. My goal is to get them to a place where they feel that they can function within their role in society and feel fulfilled. Everyone in this world needs validation and to feel loved and needed. Often when we are struggling with mental health issues, those needs aren't being met. I want to get my patients to a place where they functioning and meeting those needs.

Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.

Your wellbeing matters and it’s time for you to be seen and heard. I am committed to fostering an inviting, safe space where everyone, regardless of background, will be valued. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that specializes in treating the full range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD and more. My background includes working as a nurse not only in behavioral health, but in many medical settings. This experience, coupled with my training as a health coach, gives me a deeper understanding of what may be affecting you as a whole person.
Your wellbeing matters and it’s time for you to be seen and heard. I am committed to fostering an inviting, safe space where everyone, regardless of background, will be valued. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that specializes in treating the full range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD and more. My background includes working as a nurse not only in behavioral health, but in many medical settings. This experience, coupled with my training as a health coach, gives me a deeper understanding of what may be affecting you as a whole person.

Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.

It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.

Accepting New Patients at Omega Health Services. Chris grew up on a farm in upstate New York and spent 25 years in the US Army, mostly in Infantry and special operations units. He has a BA in History and Military Science from the State University of New York and Syracuse University, where he was a Distinguished Military Graduate. Chris is a graduate of the University of Utah’s Physician Associate Program, which is consistently ranked among the top 5 programs in the country. He has practiced in Arizona, Washington, Wyoming, and Idaho, and has a particular experience in sleep medicine, internal medicine, and psychiatry.
Accepting New Patients at Omega Health Services. Chris grew up on a farm in upstate New York and spent 25 years in the US Army, mostly in Infantry and special operations units. He has a BA in History and Military Science from the State University of New York and Syracuse University, where he was a Distinguished Military Graduate. Chris is a graduate of the University of Utah’s Physician Associate Program, which is consistently ranked among the top 5 programs in the country. He has practiced in Arizona, Washington, Wyoming, and Idaho, and has a particular experience in sleep medicine, internal medicine, and psychiatry.

I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I work with individuals across the lifespan. I offer in-person for Idaho and telehealth for Idaho residents. I believe all people need to be heard and listened to. I also believe everyone needs to be a collaborator in their own treatment. I will only offer treatments that you and I have agreed on. I treat all psychiatric illnesses in children and adults. My number one goal is to get you feeling better. Together we will explore what is happening in your life. Together we will find a way for you to enjoy life and to heal.
I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I work with individuals across the lifespan. I offer in-person for Idaho and telehealth for Idaho residents. I believe all people need to be heard and listened to. I also believe everyone needs to be a collaborator in their own treatment. I will only offer treatments that you and I have agreed on. I treat all psychiatric illnesses in children and adults. My number one goal is to get you feeling better. Together we will explore what is happening in your life. Together we will find a way for you to enjoy life and to heal.

Hi there! I’m Emily. I am a holistic and integrative PMHNP committed to helping you achieve optimal mental well-being. I treat adults, adolescents and children. I offer a warm, compassionate space and personalized approach. I am trained in traditional psychiatry and have also completed an internship in integrative psychiatry. My goal is to get to the root cause of your issues, rather than just apply a “bandaid” solution. I will work alongside you to heal your body, mind and spirit
Hi there! I’m Emily. I am a holistic and integrative PMHNP committed to helping you achieve optimal mental well-being. I treat adults, adolescents and children. I offer a warm, compassionate space and personalized approach. I am trained in traditional psychiatry and have also completed an internship in integrative psychiatry. My goal is to get to the root cause of your issues, rather than just apply a “bandaid” solution. I will work alongside you to heal your body, mind and spirit
See more therapy options for Boise
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Boise, ID
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Boise, ID who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | ADHD |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
72% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Boise, ID see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
31% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Boise?
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.