Psychiatrists in Shawnee, KS
![Photo of Samantha Russell Bereit, MSN, APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e63239ae-ec2f-4409-9c49-84c9064ac204/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Russell Bereit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee, KS 66226
It is my mission to nurture the potential in every child and family. I am devoted to integrating a holistic, individualized treatment plan that caters to the distinct needs of my clients. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications, and develop personalized treatment plans based on the latest evidence and therapeutic techniques.
It is my mission to nurture the potential in every child and family. I am devoted to integrating a holistic, individualized treatment plan that caters to the distinct needs of my clients. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications, and develop personalized treatment plans based on the latest evidence and therapeutic techniques.
![Photo of Ashley Batley, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476990c1-591c-4a01-ad0c-d91bed69f63f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Batley, nurse practitioner, is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. She has experience managing care for individuals across the lifespan with complex trauma and/or intellectual and developmental differences.
Dr Batley, nurse practitioner, is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. She has experience managing care for individuals across the lifespan with complex trauma and/or intellectual and developmental differences.
![Photo of Dr. Chika Okafor, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13e09c15-f6ef-4d61-913f-25b1a0404c99/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Chika Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee, KS 66203 (Online Only)
Seeking psychiatric treatment is never easy, but you have made the right first step by logging onto this platform in search of an individual to help you along this mental journey. A round of applause to you, you have taken a bold step because it takes so much courage! I am here to listen and work with you to be the best you can be. My job is to get you feeling your best self, and get you back to your baseline or even better.
Seeking psychiatric treatment is never easy, but you have made the right first step by logging onto this platform in search of an individual to help you along this mental journey. A round of applause to you, you have taken a bold step because it takes so much courage! I am here to listen and work with you to be the best you can be. My job is to get you feeling your best self, and get you back to your baseline or even better.
![Photo of Ryan M Short, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dcbef78-2427-4409-98b7-8186fbc1dd9e/2/320x400.png)
Battling anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions can wear a person down and lead to diminished school/work performance, dysfunctional relationships, and sometimes even life-damaging decisions. I am currently accepting new patients in need of help navigating new or chronic mental health concerns, psychiatric medication management, as well as exploring non-medication interventions. I see children ages six and up as well as adults.
Battling anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions can wear a person down and lead to diminished school/work performance, dysfunctional relationships, and sometimes even life-damaging decisions. I am currently accepting new patients in need of help navigating new or chronic mental health concerns, psychiatric medication management, as well as exploring non-medication interventions. I see children ages six and up as well as adults.
![Photo of Steven Matthew Rains - Steven Rains NP LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d149ab6b-4859-4631-9412-02098ebdcff9/1/320x400.png)
My patient care is built on empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices. I believe that every person has a unique story which deserves individualized care. I became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to treat emotional pain, assist clients and their families adapt to mental health changes, and to normalize mental health in our community. I use a team-based approach to mental health where the client’s experience and the provider’s skills meet to create the greatest results.
My patient care is built on empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices. I believe that every person has a unique story which deserves individualized care. I became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to treat emotional pain, assist clients and their families adapt to mental health changes, and to normalize mental health in our community. I use a team-based approach to mental health where the client’s experience and the provider’s skills meet to create the greatest results.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bfcb1c1-b1ff-4f46-99a0-302aaefd25f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Francis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/877ac525-c1e4-4628-b2af-93f320c26f14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Elizabeth Francis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66210
I graduated with my Masters in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialty and Doctorate in Nursing (DNP) degrees from Duke University, ranked the best graduate nursing program in the country for the last 4 years. I am an APNA board member in the Kansas state chapter, have published research in the Journal of Emergency Nurses, and am adjunct faculty in Duke's graduate nursing program. I provide evidence-based psychiatric care to help people achieve their goals. This includes creating an empathetic, safe environment. Many patients value a treatment approach that is holistic and considers their unique needs.
I graduated with my Masters in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialty and Doctorate in Nursing (DNP) degrees from Duke University, ranked the best graduate nursing program in the country for the last 4 years. I am an APNA board member in the Kansas state chapter, have published research in the Journal of Emergency Nurses, and am adjunct faculty in Duke's graduate nursing program. I provide evidence-based psychiatric care to help people achieve their goals. This includes creating an empathetic, safe environment. Many patients value a treatment approach that is holistic and considers their unique needs.
![Photo of Vicki Tsai, PMHNP, MSN, MHA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4caa1191-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I start my Psychiatric nursing career since 1996. Throughout the years old practice, I have extended education, knowledge, and experiences in helping children, adult, and geriatric population with mental and behavioral health issues such as: ADHD, Anxiety disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar and related issues, Childhood mental health concerns, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other severe psychiatric disorders. In addition, I am certified by PSI in managing women with mental health issues during childbearing age.
I start my Psychiatric nursing career since 1996. Throughout the years old practice, I have extended education, knowledge, and experiences in helping children, adult, and geriatric population with mental and behavioral health issues such as: ADHD, Anxiety disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar and related issues, Childhood mental health concerns, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other severe psychiatric disorders. In addition, I am certified by PSI in managing women with mental health issues during childbearing age.
![Photo of Alexander B. Rose, MD, MPHS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00b04224-de58-4b76-a04c-cdeebf3eed4e/3/320x400.jpeg)
WAIT TIME: ≤ 2-4 weeks | REQUEST VISIT BY VISITING MY WEBSITE (www.veritas-psych.com) AND/OR EMAILING ME. | Dr. Rose is a forensic psychiatrist providing both clinical and medical-legal services. His approach begins by taking ample time to obtain a thorough understanding of who you are as a person from a variety of perspectives. He values making sure that every patient is informed and understands the meaning behind every diagnosis and the reasons for why certain treatments are recommended over others. Initial patient contact via my website or email is required. Phone calls are intended for existing patients (or attorneys) only.
WAIT TIME: ≤ 2-4 weeks | REQUEST VISIT BY VISITING MY WEBSITE (www.veritas-psych.com) AND/OR EMAILING ME. | Dr. Rose is a forensic psychiatrist providing both clinical and medical-legal services. His approach begins by taking ample time to obtain a thorough understanding of who you are as a person from a variety of perspectives. He values making sure that every patient is informed and understands the meaning behind every diagnosis and the reasons for why certain treatments are recommended over others. Initial patient contact via my website or email is required. Phone calls are intended for existing patients (or attorneys) only.
![Photo of Yamila Williams - Stock Health for Mental Balance, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c46a84d-d300-4d74-892b-6213e114789e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stock Health for Mental Balance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66051
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice who has been delivering comprehensive healthcare services since 2002. With a commitment to excellence, specializing in evidence-based practice methods with down to earth personality. My diverse experience spans various settings, including primary care, community health at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC), correctional health, and hospitals. I firmly believe in a Maslow approach to healthcare, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice who has been delivering comprehensive healthcare services since 2002. With a commitment to excellence, specializing in evidence-based practice methods with down to earth personality. My diverse experience spans various settings, including primary care, community health at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC), correctional health, and hospitals. I firmly believe in a Maslow approach to healthcare, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
![Photo of Brent Menninger, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7125f5b1-3e9f-412a-b46e-3cd01fda07a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brent Menninger is a Medical Doctor who has been practicing since 1993. He graduated from The University of Kansas in Lawrence KS and completed his residency at the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry in Topeka, KS. Dr. Menninger has been a Staff Psychiatrist at multiple hospitals in the state, along with being Chairman for the Department of Psychiatry at Lawrence Memorial Hospital. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Menninger believes in a holistic approach to psychiatric care, which includes treating the body and the mind, by using the basics of good health.
Brent Menninger is a Medical Doctor who has been practicing since 1993. He graduated from The University of Kansas in Lawrence KS and completed his residency at the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry in Topeka, KS. Dr. Menninger has been a Staff Psychiatrist at multiple hospitals in the state, along with being Chairman for the Department of Psychiatry at Lawrence Memorial Hospital. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Menninger believes in a holistic approach to psychiatric care, which includes treating the body and the mind, by using the basics of good health.
![Photo of Dr. Victoria Haynes, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c3cbf2d-7ef2-4fde-8ef8-c25ec82380fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Victoria Haynes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66223
I am passionate about helping clients achieve optimal mental wellness by providing holistic care that includes psychotherapy, medication management, physical exams, and wellness services. I specialize in managing mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma related disorders.
I am passionate about helping clients achieve optimal mental wellness by providing holistic care that includes psychotherapy, medication management, physical exams, and wellness services. I specialize in managing mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma related disorders.
![Photo of Subbu Joseph Sarma - Arista Recovery Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07cdb6ac-5f39-4d43-8338-792521353b46/2/320x400.jpeg)
Arista Recovery Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66207
Dr. Subbu Sarma, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in addiction medicine. Dr. Sarma received his medical degree in 1999 at the St. Louis University Medical School. Since 2005, he has practiced addiction medicine and treatment methods.
Dr. Subbu Sarma, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in addiction medicine. Dr. Sarma received his medical degree in 1999 at the St. Louis University Medical School. Since 2005, he has practiced addiction medicine and treatment methods.
![Photo of Laura Tieszen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca82bce2-be37-4853-a7e4-b974bfc2a0db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Tieszen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2023. She has a BS in Biology from Northwestern University, a BSN from Bellarmine University, and an MSN from Walden University - APRN, PMHNP track. Laura provides a combination of genuine warmth and caring with excellent clinical knowledge to give patients the best possible care. Each person has their own unique story, and Laura values knowing the person in order to provide individual treatment. Outside of work, Laura enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and dog, Ted.
Laura Tieszen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2023. She has a BS in Biology from Northwestern University, a BSN from Bellarmine University, and an MSN from Walden University - APRN, PMHNP track. Laura provides a combination of genuine warmth and caring with excellent clinical knowledge to give patients the best possible care. Each person has their own unique story, and Laura values knowing the person in order to provide individual treatment. Outside of work, Laura enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and dog, Ted.
![Photo of Ashley Bean, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d539a43-364b-44b2-b81e-98cc4ec75b6d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Bean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66210
My name is Ashley. I founded Hark Psychiatry to create a place for people to share their stories and receive personalized psychiatric care. Your genetics, physical health, relationships, and past experiences all effect your mental health. During our first meeting (called a psychiatric evaluation) I'll learn about all of those different parts of your life and we'll work together to make an individualized treatment plan which may include medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.
My name is Ashley. I founded Hark Psychiatry to create a place for people to share their stories and receive personalized psychiatric care. Your genetics, physical health, relationships, and past experiences all effect your mental health. During our first meeting (called a psychiatric evaluation) I'll learn about all of those different parts of your life and we'll work together to make an individualized treatment plan which may include medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Laura Young, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/370601cd-b594-453f-bdf3-09a6247fe8f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Young is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kansas who has been practicing since 2021. Laura was born and raised in Kansas. Her post high school education began at Kansas City Kansas Community College, obtaining her Associates of Science in Nursing in 2009 at the young age of 20 years old on a presidential scholarship awarded from high school. She then went on to working as a bedside nurse for over 12 years. Laura went back to college, obtaining her Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2018 while working.
Laura Young is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kansas who has been practicing since 2021. Laura was born and raised in Kansas. Her post high school education began at Kansas City Kansas Community College, obtaining her Associates of Science in Nursing in 2009 at the young age of 20 years old on a presidential scholarship awarded from high school. She then went on to working as a bedside nurse for over 12 years. Laura went back to college, obtaining her Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2018 while working.
![Photo of Julie Owens With Beyond Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a714860-1d08-43be-8461-4018aefffb1a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Owens With Beyond Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66209
You deserve to have the time you need in your appointment to feel heard, validated, and supported. You also deserve a holistic approach to your mental health care, recognizing the intricate interplay between your mental well-being and various facets of your life, including physical health, relationships, and environmental influences. I believe that ‘Health is more than a prescription,’ and I am committed to providing meaningful appointments, ensuring you receive dedicated time and attention. While medications can be crucial in managing mental health, I advocate for a comprehensive approach to your care.
You deserve to have the time you need in your appointment to feel heard, validated, and supported. You also deserve a holistic approach to your mental health care, recognizing the intricate interplay between your mental well-being and various facets of your life, including physical health, relationships, and environmental influences. I believe that ‘Health is more than a prescription,’ and I am committed to providing meaningful appointments, ensuring you receive dedicated time and attention. While medications can be crucial in managing mental health, I advocate for a comprehensive approach to your care.
![Photo of Amanda Murphy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8b883b9-5862-4d07-9185-4ff742787892/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that psychiatric nurse practitioners have the unique opportunity to provide care that is built upon forming a relationship with the patient. Psychiatric illnesses are complex and require careful assessment that takes into consideration the biological, psychological, social, and developmental aspects of the patient's life.
I believe that psychiatric nurse practitioners have the unique opportunity to provide care that is built upon forming a relationship with the patient. Psychiatric illnesses are complex and require careful assessment that takes into consideration the biological, psychological, social, and developmental aspects of the patient's life.
![Photo of Sonni Elliott - Sunrise Psychiatry -TMS Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4edc664-5fd9-4ec2-808b-c9e2c6506043/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ask yourself these questions.... Do you have difficulty trying to treat Depression? Tried multiple meds which have failed or been difficult to tolerate? Want an option for depression treatment other than medications? Want to lower the number of medications long term? Have a continued goal of quality of life improvement or possible remission from Depression? If so, consider TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
Ask yourself these questions.... Do you have difficulty trying to treat Depression? Tried multiple meds which have failed or been difficult to tolerate? Want an option for depression treatment other than medications? Want to lower the number of medications long term? Have a continued goal of quality of life improvement or possible remission from Depression? If so, consider TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
![Photo of Dr. Kashif Hameed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afbc54c4-9916-4431-a395-ecb4b1c79886/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health issues vary widely from anxiety and depression to complex mood and developmental disorders, each carrying unique challenges and needs. The overarching goal in psychiatric care is to alleviate distress and enhance functioning through individualized treatment plans. This typically involves a combination of medication management to address biological aspects and therapeutic interventions to tackle behavioral and emotional facets. Patients' needs also include understanding their conditions, reducing stigma, and integrating coping strategies into daily life.
Mental health issues vary widely from anxiety and depression to complex mood and developmental disorders, each carrying unique challenges and needs. The overarching goal in psychiatric care is to alleviate distress and enhance functioning through individualized treatment plans. This typically involves a combination of medication management to address biological aspects and therapeutic interventions to tackle behavioral and emotional facets. Patients' needs also include understanding their conditions, reducing stigma, and integrating coping strategies into daily life.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Shawnee, KS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Shawnee, KS who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Suicidal Ideation |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Transgender |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | Aetna |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Shawnee, KS see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Shawnee?
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.