Psychiatrists in Bonner County, ID

Photo of Cyndi M Gerstenberger - Alliance Psychiatric Wellness, PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alliance Psychiatric Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandpoint, ID 83864
Alliance Psychiatric Wellness, PLLC (APW) is devoted to helping clients achieve optimal wellness by aligning their spiritual, physical, and mental health through a an integrative approach that includes medication management. Accepting new referrals from your current MD, NP, or Therapist via Fax: 855-610-2310
Alliance Psychiatric Wellness, PLLC (APW) is devoted to helping clients achieve optimal wellness by aligning their spiritual, physical, and mental health through a an integrative approach that includes medication management. Accepting new referrals from your current MD, NP, or Therapist via Fax: 855-610-2310
(208) 289-0788 View (208) 289-0788
Photo of Jared Bruder, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jared Bruder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandpoint, ID 83864
Jared's philosophy of patient care holds the belief that many of the physical illnesses that are treated in primary care have a strong mental health component to them that is all too often left unaddressed. It is his goal to incorporate both the physical and the mental health disciplines into his care that he provides to his patients. This is achieved by attuning with the patient, creating individualized therapeutic and psychiatric treatment plans while working closely with the MWRS psychiatric and behavioral health specialty team to provide a collaborative approach to patient care that improves their outcomes.
Jared's philosophy of patient care holds the belief that many of the physical illnesses that are treated in primary care have a strong mental health component to them that is all too often left unaddressed. It is his goal to incorporate both the physical and the mental health disciplines into his care that he provides to his patients. This is achieved by attuning with the patient, creating individualized therapeutic and psychiatric treatment plans while working closely with the MWRS psychiatric and behavioral health specialty team to provide a collaborative approach to patient care that improves their outcomes.
(208) 925-3226 View (208) 925-3226
Photo of Jeanette Steiner - Mental Wellness and Relationship Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Wellness and Relationship Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Sandpoint, ID 83864
Patients receiving care through Mental Wellness and Relationship Services will receive quality care and individualized treatment plans. We are a group of board certified psychiatric and certified nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric mental health and addiction medication. Our providers collaborate with mental health counselors to ensure each patient is receiving adequate care through additional supports in the community.
Patients receiving care through Mental Wellness and Relationship Services will receive quality care and individualized treatment plans. We are a group of board certified psychiatric and certified nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric mental health and addiction medication. Our providers collaborate with mental health counselors to ensure each patient is receiving adequate care through additional supports in the community.
(208) 269-9256 View (208) 269-9256
Photo of Karey Kananda, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karey Kananda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandpoint, ID 83864
Waitlist for new clients
At Fortitude Psychiatry you will find a safe space to discuss and grow on your mental health journey. Our provider will use evidenced based, integrative care to partner with you in your mental health. Our services include diagnosis and medication management for mental health including: anxiety, depression, Attention Deficit Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, mood swings, and bipolar.
At Fortitude Psychiatry you will find a safe space to discuss and grow on your mental health journey. Our provider will use evidenced based, integrative care to partner with you in your mental health. Our services include diagnosis and medication management for mental health including: anxiety, depression, Attention Deficit Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, mood swings, and bipolar.
(509) 410-4042 View (509) 410-4042
Photo of Adam Horn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandpoint, ID 83864  (Online Only)
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
(208) 886-1698 View (208) 886-1698
Photo of Bruce R Stevens, Psychiatrist
Bruce R Stevens
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Sandpoint, ID 83864  (Online Only)
I am bringing over 27 years of experience to a new outpatient practice here in Idaho, specializing in adult psychiatry. Previously, I served 8 years as the Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatry for Bon Secours Health System in Richmond, VA. I provide Online sessions statewide as well as in-person appointments in CDA. Other features of my practice included: Timely scheduling of initial appointments; Longer appointment sessions; timely responses via our messaging & email system; electronic prescribing, and electronic lab ordering.
I am bringing over 27 years of experience to a new outpatient practice here in Idaho, specializing in adult psychiatry. Previously, I served 8 years as the Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatry for Bon Secours Health System in Richmond, VA. I provide Online sessions statewide as well as in-person appointments in CDA. Other features of my practice included: Timely scheduling of initial appointments; Longer appointment sessions; timely responses via our messaging & email system; electronic prescribing, and electronic lab ordering.
(208) 203-0778 View (208) 203-0778

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Carrie O'Grady, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carrie O'Grady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Post Falls, ID 83854
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal for patients is to give them the support that they need to improve their quality of life and a safe space to identify how to make that happen. I am passionate about working with with adults with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and trauma-related disorders. As a provider, I take a collaborative approach with my patients and individualize treatment to meet your needs. I want to empower people to feel in control of their lives and their own mental health and strive to provide the tools to make informed decisions about mental healthcare.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal for patients is to give them the support that they need to improve their quality of life and a safe space to identify how to make that happen. I am passionate about working with with adults with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and trauma-related disorders. As a provider, I take a collaborative approach with my patients and individualize treatment to meet your needs. I want to empower people to feel in control of their lives and their own mental health and strive to provide the tools to make informed decisions about mental healthcare.
(206) 203-1792 View (206) 203-1792
Photo of Carrie A` Kralicek - At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC, PhD(c), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD(c), PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815  (Online Only)
TO see availability and SCHEDULE, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com 100% Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. We send prescription medications right to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but now it takes months to get in. We created this online telepsychiatry practice for busy people. We are a group of compassionate, skilled, board-certified psychiatric mental health practitioners. We care for people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and others. We have ONLINE ADHD treatment available.
TO see availability and SCHEDULE, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com 100% Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. We send prescription medications right to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but now it takes months to get in. We created this online telepsychiatry practice for busy people. We are a group of compassionate, skilled, board-certified psychiatric mental health practitioners. We care for people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and others. We have ONLINE ADHD treatment available.
Photo of Stacey Whitaker, MMS, PA-C, CAQ, Physician Assistant
Stacey Whitaker
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C, CAQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814  (Online Only)
Have you been considering medications for anxiety, depression or OCD 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 anxiety, depression or OCD 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.
(208) 782-7236 View (208) 782-7236
Photo of Courtney Parker - Stability Mental Health, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stability Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance life, health, and happiness? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to integrate physical and mental health so you feel your absolute best when life is great and you're able to tackle life's challenges when it's not so great. With the right tools, support, and sometimes medication, you can work toward a life full of happiness. If you are looking for a provider who believes in you and wants to help you feel your best, we are likely to be a great fit. I am accepting new patients in ID, OR, and WA, so reach out for a free consultation today!
Are you struggling to balance life, health, and happiness? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to integrate physical and mental health so you feel your absolute best when life is great and you're able to tackle life's challenges when it's not so great. With the right tools, support, and sometimes medication, you can work toward a life full of happiness. If you are looking for a provider who believes in you and wants to help you feel your best, we are likely to be a great fit. I am accepting new patients in ID, OR, and WA, so reach out for a free consultation today!
(208) 285-4587 View (208) 285-4587
Photo of Johanna Matthews, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Johanna Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hayden, ID 83835
I believe mental wellness involves more than just the thoughts one experiences. Everything from your environment, diet, level of activity, and your relationships with other people can have an impact on your brain chemistry and your mental wellness. My hope is to develop a treatment plan with you that will help you fight mental illness, and keep it controlled for many years to come. In order to achieve this, we will focus on important aspects of your overall health including self-awareness, psychoeducation, and your interpersonal interactions and relationships.
I believe mental wellness involves more than just the thoughts one experiences. Everything from your environment, diet, level of activity, and your relationships with other people can have an impact on your brain chemistry and your mental wellness. My hope is to develop a treatment plan with you that will help you fight mental illness, and keep it controlled for many years to come. In order to achieve this, we will focus on important aspects of your overall health including self-awareness, psychoeducation, and your interpersonal interactions and relationships.
(208) 603-4065 View (208) 603-4065
Photo of Brenda Shanley, MN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Shanley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814  (Online Only)
Brenda Shanley, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Adult Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years experience in mental health, specializing in medication management for mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD and more. Telehealth appointments are available in Washington and Idaho. For more information or to schedule an appointment please visit my website at: www.shanleypsychiatry.com
Brenda Shanley, MN, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Adult Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years experience in mental health, specializing in medication management for mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD and more. Telehealth appointments are available in Washington and Idaho. For more information or to schedule an appointment please visit my website at: www.shanleypsychiatry.com
(208) 494-9746 View (208) 494-9746
Photo of Katiuska Alex Vestman, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katiuska Alex Vestman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814  (Online Only)
My mission is to provide exceptional care for those with common and more complex mental health struggles. While I am well-versed in all aspects of mental health needs, I specialize in perinatal mood disorders (including postpartum disorders in men and women) and substance use disorders. My background in psych started in 2002 as a mental health worker in a state facility. I have progressed as a registered nurse in labor and delivery and a PMHNP-BC with a focus on women's health. I have gained experience through many different avenues and situations. I look forward to exploring how I can serve you.
My mission is to provide exceptional care for those with common and more complex mental health struggles. While I am well-versed in all aspects of mental health needs, I specialize in perinatal mood disorders (including postpartum disorders in men and women) and substance use disorders. My background in psych started in 2002 as a mental health worker in a state facility. I have progressed as a registered nurse in labor and delivery and a PMHNP-BC with a focus on women's health. I have gained experience through many different avenues and situations. I look forward to exploring how I can serve you.
(208) 540-9239 View (208) 540-9239
Photo of Libby Lynn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Libby Lynn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
“Why don’t I feel like myself?” “Where did this come from?” – these are common things I hear from patients, and I want to help you solve your puzzle. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of healthcare experience under my belt, I have devoted a significant portion of my professional career to blending the art of healing with the science of medicine. My practice style is not just about treating symptoms; it's about nurturing holistic wellness from within.
“Why don’t I feel like myself?” “Where did this come from?” – these are common things I hear from patients, and I want to help you solve your puzzle. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of healthcare experience under my belt, I have devoted a significant portion of my professional career to blending the art of healing with the science of medicine. My practice style is not just about treating symptoms; it's about nurturing holistic wellness from within.
(208) 858-5280 View (208) 858-5280
Photo of Bruce Robert Stevens, MD, Psychiatrist
Bruce Robert Stevens
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Post Falls, ID 83854
I am bringing close to 30 years of experience to an outpatient practice here in Idaho, specializing in adult psychiatry. Previously, I served 8 years as the Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatry for Bon Secours Health System in Richmond, VA. I provide Online sessions statewide as well as in-person appointments in CDA/Post Falls. Other features of my practice included: Timely scheduling of initial appointments; Longer appointment sessions; timely responses via our messaging & email system; electronic prescribing, and electronic lab ordering.
I am bringing close to 30 years of experience to an outpatient practice here in Idaho, specializing in adult psychiatry. Previously, I served 8 years as the Medical Director of Inpatient Psychiatry for Bon Secours Health System in Richmond, VA. I provide Online sessions statewide as well as in-person appointments in CDA/Post Falls. Other features of my practice included: Timely scheduling of initial appointments; Longer appointment sessions; timely responses via our messaging & email system; electronic prescribing, and electronic lab ordering.
(208) 858-4873 View (208) 858-4873
Photo of Damaris Aragon, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Damaris Aragon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Same Day Appointments Available. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? Let my 30 years of nursing experience help you find a solution to your mental health needs.
Same Day Appointments Available. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? Let my 30 years of nursing experience help you find a solution to your mental health needs.
(208) 417-7637 View (208) 417-7637
Photo of Randy Goleman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Randy Goleman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hayden, ID 83835
I've had the privilege of helping people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders in different practices. My previous focus was predominantly on individuals of all ages suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
I've had the privilege of helping people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders in different practices. My previous focus was predominantly on individuals of all ages suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
(888) 701-4423 View (888) 701-4423
Photo of Lauren Taylor Hall - Pawsitive Pathways Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pawsitive Pathways Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815  (Online Only)
My name is Taylor Hall, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in children, adolescent, and adult medication management at Pawsitive Pathways Psychiatry, LLC. I have experience in a variety of mental health settings and have worked directly with many ages and diagnoses. I accept most insurances and also have a self-pay option. I am accepting new clients from Idaho, Massachusetts, and Washington at this time. Please visit my website at pawsitivepathwayspsych.com for more information and online scheduling!
My name is Taylor Hall, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in children, adolescent, and adult medication management at Pawsitive Pathways Psychiatry, LLC. I have experience in a variety of mental health settings and have worked directly with many ages and diagnoses. I accept most insurances and also have a self-pay option. I am accepting new clients from Idaho, Massachusetts, and Washington at this time. Please visit my website at pawsitivepathwayspsych.com for more information and online scheduling!
(208) 449-2860 View (208) 449-2860
Photo of Jeanette Steiner, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeanette Steiner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Jeanette’s philosophy of patient care revolves around taking the time to be truly present to those who are suffering from mental health issues. She believes this is particularly relevant in our distracted and fast-paced society and also sees the importance of recognizing the dignity and uniqueness of each human person.
Jeanette’s philosophy of patient care revolves around taking the time to be truly present to those who are suffering from mental health issues. She believes this is particularly relevant in our distracted and fast-paced society and also sees the importance of recognizing the dignity and uniqueness of each human person.
(208) 858-5356 View (208) 858-5356

See more therapy options for Bonner County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bonner County, ID

< 10

Psychiatrists in Bonner County, ID who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
67% Addiction

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
83% Regence

How Psychiatrists in Bonner County, ID see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Male
34% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bonner County?

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.