Psychiatrists in East Lansing, MI
![Photo of Janice West - Tender Embrace Wellness, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd1385de-c170-4a9a-82c7-32b17a91e829/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tender Embrace Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
Welcome to Tender Embrace Wellness: Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced. Your story matters, and we are here to listen. Our dedicated team of compassionate practitioners is ready to hear your experiences, concerns, and dreams. We understand that the first step towards healing begins with a caring and attentive ear. Remember, if you're not happy, we're not satisfied.
Welcome to Tender Embrace Wellness: Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced. Your story matters, and we are here to listen. Our dedicated team of compassionate practitioners is ready to hear your experiences, concerns, and dreams. We understand that the first step towards healing begins with a caring and attentive ear. Remember, if you're not happy, we're not satisfied.
![Photo of Lori DiLorenzo, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cffc8b4-b38d-4771-8bdc-9bb9e92556f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been an RN for 20 years and an Advanced Practice Nurse in Psychiatry since 2007. I absolutely LOVE what I do, my patients, and Lifestance!.
I have been an RN for 20 years and an Advanced Practice Nurse in Psychiatry since 2007. I absolutely LOVE what I do, my patients, and Lifestance!.
![Photo of Tonya Lake, NP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c8ab74b-228f-4dcf-8bd4-bb267c261d56/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tonya graduated with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a focus in Psychiatry from the University of Michigan. She also holds a Master of Arts in Counseling degree from Spring Arbor University. Tonya is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in the psychiatric treatment of adolescents and adults. She provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to provide a non-judgemental, therapeutic atmosphere where patients feel comfortable speaking openly about and exploring their struggles.
Tonya graduated with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a focus in Psychiatry from the University of Michigan. She also holds a Master of Arts in Counseling degree from Spring Arbor University. Tonya is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in the psychiatric treatment of adolescents and adults. She provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to provide a non-judgemental, therapeutic atmosphere where patients feel comfortable speaking openly about and exploring their struggles.
![Photo of Jen Gonzalez, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64147bfa-9490-4a6d-9e95-fb11f675d110/5/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in a holistic approach to mental health. Our mind and body are connected to make up who we are. Getting better is often hard work that requires commitment and patience. There will be times you may want to give up but know that I will be with you every step of the way. I listen with an open mind and will always work within your comfort level. My goal is to help you get well with as little medication as possible.
I believe in a holistic approach to mental health. Our mind and body are connected to make up who we are. Getting better is often hard work that requires commitment and patience. There will be times you may want to give up but know that I will be with you every step of the way. I listen with an open mind and will always work within your comfort level. My goal is to help you get well with as little medication as possible.
![Photo of Eric Dachtler - Michigan Psychiatric & Primary Care Clinic, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6adef7d2-28af-4cb3-bfd6-e8fbe14efe83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michigan Psychiatric & Primary Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
Our mission is to exceed the patient’s expectations. We promote the wellbeing of the individuals and families in the Greater Lansing Area community, and throughout the state by providing accessible, quality mental health & primary care for children, adolescents, adults, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes integrity, optimism, respect and compassion. We are committed to quality mental health & primary care provided in a collaborative effort with patients’ overall health strategies and an array of medical services.
Our mission is to exceed the patient’s expectations. We promote the wellbeing of the individuals and families in the Greater Lansing Area community, and throughout the state by providing accessible, quality mental health & primary care for children, adolescents, adults, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes integrity, optimism, respect and compassion. We are committed to quality mental health & primary care provided in a collaborative effort with patients’ overall health strategies and an array of medical services.
![Photo of Karla Jordan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69ba1716-8b8e-4d52-a1c5-6a030c95830f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karla Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
Hi ! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 7 years of clinical experience. I earned a Master’s in Nursing, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification from the University of St. Francis. My career background includes positions at various health centers and behavioral hospitals. I assist individuals with mental health disorders and help them feel their best.
Hi ! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 7 years of clinical experience. I earned a Master’s in Nursing, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification from the University of St. Francis. My career background includes positions at various health centers and behavioral hospitals. I assist individuals with mental health disorders and help them feel their best.
![Photo of Princewell Onwere, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd784832-301c-464f-abf4-7c6aab14d7cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my outpatient psychiatry practice. I take a whole person clinical approach to assessment and treatment. When necessary, I may prescribe psychotropic medication to help alleviate overwhelming mental distress that impairs functioning in meaningful areas of one’s life. I also provide mindfulness-based psychotherapy and consider the role of diet, physical exercise, and other lifestyle activities in support of mental health. I offer hope for individuals seeking relief from depression, anxiety, bipolar illness, and other mental health conditions.
Welcome to my outpatient psychiatry practice. I take a whole person clinical approach to assessment and treatment. When necessary, I may prescribe psychotropic medication to help alleviate overwhelming mental distress that impairs functioning in meaningful areas of one’s life. I also provide mindfulness-based psychotherapy and consider the role of diet, physical exercise, and other lifestyle activities in support of mental health. I offer hope for individuals seeking relief from depression, anxiety, bipolar illness, and other mental health conditions.
![Photo of Tham Doan - Michigan Psychiatric & Primary Care Clinic, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4af91bad-9404-4b63-b8df-8602ef99e287/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michigan Psychiatric & Primary Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
Not accepting new clients
Our mission is to exceed the patient’s expectations. We promote the wellbeing of the individuals and families in the Greater Lansing Area community, and throughout the state by providing accessible, quality mental health & primary care for children, adolescents, adults, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes integrity, optimism, respect and compassion. We are committed to quality mental health & primary care provided in a collaborative effort with patients’ overall health strategies and an array of medical services.
Our mission is to exceed the patient’s expectations. We promote the wellbeing of the individuals and families in the Greater Lansing Area community, and throughout the state by providing accessible, quality mental health & primary care for children, adolescents, adults, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes integrity, optimism, respect and compassion. We are committed to quality mental health & primary care provided in a collaborative effort with patients’ overall health strategies and an array of medical services.
![Photo of Kristine Tomlinson-Miles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/531d0b1b-c37f-4eb3-94b4-22c13d03e081/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristine Tomlinson-Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
The challenges of life are often unexpected and taking steps toward wellness can be difficult. Wherever you are in your journey, Kristine can assist you in achieving a balanced life with psychiatric care that is empathetic and person-centered. With a holistic approach to mental health, her treatment plans combine prescription medications, brief psychotherapy, and integrative wellness practices. Kristine is a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Board Certified, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with 10+ years of clinical experience working in East Lansing and Grand Rapids, MI
The challenges of life are often unexpected and taking steps toward wellness can be difficult. Wherever you are in your journey, Kristine can assist you in achieving a balanced life with psychiatric care that is empathetic and person-centered. With a holistic approach to mental health, her treatment plans combine prescription medications, brief psychotherapy, and integrative wellness practices. Kristine is a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Board Certified, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with 10+ years of clinical experience working in East Lansing and Grand Rapids, MI
![Photo of Marcia Kent, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db4e9353-5b7d-4a71-84fd-a22fccb4176c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a proponent of reality based therapy and specialize in work with people impacted by narcissistic abuse, childhood trauma and a wide range of symptoms that include anxiety, depression, PTSD, cPTSD, trauma, Interpersonal relationships issues, and self esteem. Clients find my authentic and engaging approaches to therapy an invitation to unpack and explore themselves in a safe place.
I am a proponent of reality based therapy and specialize in work with people impacted by narcissistic abuse, childhood trauma and a wide range of symptoms that include anxiety, depression, PTSD, cPTSD, trauma, Interpersonal relationships issues, and self esteem. Clients find my authentic and engaging approaches to therapy an invitation to unpack and explore themselves in a safe place.
![Photo of Christina Snider, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/538d428d-ecb2-4225-aace-ad33697b2ee3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Snider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
I am Christina Snider and I am both a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing for over 24 years.
I am Christina Snider and I am both a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing for over 24 years.
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![Photo of Joseph Ojibway, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1a07f15-64ed-46c2-b6da-c616e25ac877/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Ojibway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
Hello, and thank you for considering me as a provider! I worked as a primary care provider for nearly a decade before obtaining my psychiatric training at Johns Hopkins University. While living in Nashville, TN, I had the privilege of serving a diverse patient population, mainly providing care to the Latino community as a fluent Spanish speaker. My growing family returned to Michigan in 2021 so our children could be raised around their Anishinaabe culture.
Hello, and thank you for considering me as a provider! I worked as a primary care provider for nearly a decade before obtaining my psychiatric training at Johns Hopkins University. While living in Nashville, TN, I had the privilege of serving a diverse patient population, mainly providing care to the Latino community as a fluent Spanish speaker. My growing family returned to Michigan in 2021 so our children could be raised around their Anishinaabe culture.
![Photo of Angela Braun - Arbor Video Psych and ADHD, PAC, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1f39498-6abb-4400-8d80-5441ab0fb703/1/320x400.png)
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book an online appointment at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUS: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, PTSD. While I employ research based diagnostic and treatment modalities, my training goes far beyond this to encompass expertise both on the medical side and psychiatric side. I have additional trainings, including with Dr. Akash Kumar MD known for his multi layered diagnostic approach to assess nutritional, medical, psychiatric, and cognitive dimensions. Because of my background, I am uniquely able to look at the oft missed root causes of subtle medical conditions that contribute to emotional difficulty.
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book an online appointment at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUS: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, PTSD. While I employ research based diagnostic and treatment modalities, my training goes far beyond this to encompass expertise both on the medical side and psychiatric side. I have additional trainings, including with Dr. Akash Kumar MD known for his multi layered diagnostic approach to assess nutritional, medical, psychiatric, and cognitive dimensions. Because of my background, I am uniquely able to look at the oft missed root causes of subtle medical conditions that contribute to emotional difficulty.
![Photo of Akash Kumar - Dr. Akash Kumar MD - Arbor Video Psych and ADHD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f964a895-80f3-4723-b094-db1332664829/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Akash Kumar MD - Arbor Video Psych and ADHD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. Special interest in ADHD, anxiety, mood, and OCD. Therapeutic time cannot be rushed. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist, I address psychological AND medical factors by looking beyond the usual 20 psychiatric medications to investigate the underlying biological or psychological issues. Investigating may entail (based on current research): laboratory panels looking for chronic nutritional deficiencies; genetic testing (to predict what meds/supplements can help); brain scans; neuro exam; deeper forms of talk therapy
See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. Special interest in ADHD, anxiety, mood, and OCD. Therapeutic time cannot be rushed. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist, I address psychological AND medical factors by looking beyond the usual 20 psychiatric medications to investigate the underlying biological or psychological issues. Investigating may entail (based on current research): laboratory panels looking for chronic nutritional deficiencies; genetic testing (to predict what meds/supplements can help); brain scans; neuro exam; deeper forms of talk therapy
![Photo of Mfon Essien, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ece6deef-112b-4742-a225-31e8d15ac571/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, My name is Mfon Essien. I am psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I attended Walden University and attained my PMHNP.
Hello, My name is Mfon Essien. I am psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I attended Walden University and attained my PMHNP.
![Photo of Godfrey Abuya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af7be4b5-3d70-4336-95c6-f8eeaae62420/1/320x400.jpeg)
Godfrey Abuya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Godfrey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a thriving private practice in Grand Rapids, MI. With over six years of experience in diverse healthcare settings, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to help you achieve mental wellness. I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to enhance your quality of life and empower you to thrive
Welcome! I’m Godfrey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a thriving private practice in Grand Rapids, MI. With over six years of experience in diverse healthcare settings, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to help you achieve mental wellness. I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to enhance your quality of life and empower you to thrive
![Photo of Rebecca Greer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cbeb962-c595-4a58-ad71-3bfabe8a0828/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.
Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.
![Photo of Chidinma (Chichi) Okogbue, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01efc595-b210-4667-8287-f56c235edccc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chidinma (Chichi) Okogbue
Psychiatric Nurse, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
If you are feeling down, overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself, have a hard time concentrating, wondering what needs to be done. Chichi believes in helping you figure it out and will work with you to plan the best care that suits you. I am a mental health nurse practitioner and I provide medication management for various mental health conditions. I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.
If you are feeling down, overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself, have a hard time concentrating, wondering what needs to be done. Chichi believes in helping you figure it out and will work with you to plan the best care that suits you. I am a mental health nurse practitioner and I provide medication management for various mental health conditions. I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.
![Photo of Andrea Skrocki, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01588897-5ae7-4929-bc6c-246f0ee7af78/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Skrocki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
Hi - my name is Andrea Skrocki and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) newly practicing in Michigan. I have over 10 years of independent practice working in Montana and Colorado. I am thrilled to partner with Grow Therapy to offer my telepsychiatry services throughout Michigan. I strive to deliver high-quality evidence based telepsychiatry that utilizes the most recent advancement in psychiatry.
Hi - my name is Andrea Skrocki and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) newly practicing in Michigan. I have over 10 years of independent practice working in Montana and Colorado. I am thrilled to partner with Grow Therapy to offer my telepsychiatry services throughout Michigan. I strive to deliver high-quality evidence based telepsychiatry that utilizes the most recent advancement in psychiatry.
![Photo of Don O Smith - A Better Tomorrow Counseling Services, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4781fd40-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Better Tomorrow Counseling Services, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48824 (Online Only)
I'm a board-certified adult and child psychiatrist specializing in the true integration of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. I believe in active collaboration with patients to achieve treatment goals, while reducing the need for psychotropic medication when appropriate. I encourage patients, within an empathic and supportive environment, to gain a better understanding of themselves in order to facilitate positive change.
I'm a board-certified adult and child psychiatrist specializing in the true integration of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. I believe in active collaboration with patients to achieve treatment goals, while reducing the need for psychotropic medication when appropriate. I encourage patients, within an empathic and supportive environment, to gain a better understanding of themselves in order to facilitate positive change.
See more therapy options for East Lansing
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in East Lansing, MI
20+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in East Lansing, MI who prioritize treating:
83% | Anxiety |
75% | Depression |
63% | ADHD |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
58% | Bipolar Disorder |
58% | Sleep or Insomnia |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in East Lansing, MI see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in East Lansing?
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.