Psychiatrists in Lansing, MI

Photo of Roy Meland, DO, Psychiatrist
Roy Meland
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Dr. Roy Meland is a seasoned clinical psychiatrist, serving the Greater Lansing area since 1999. He completed his training at Michigan State University before embarking on a diverse career journey. With experience spanning practice through community mental health, addiction medicine, rehabilitation psychiatry, and private practice, Dr. Meland brings a comprehensive understanding and compassionate approach to his patients' care. His dedication to mental health advocacy and personalized treatment has earned him respect and recognition in his field, having served on local and national boards developing best mental health practices.
Dr. Roy Meland is a seasoned clinical psychiatrist, serving the Greater Lansing area since 1999. He completed his training at Michigan State University before embarking on a diverse career journey. With experience spanning practice through community mental health, addiction medicine, rehabilitation psychiatry, and private practice, Dr. Meland brings a comprehensive understanding and compassionate approach to his patients' care. His dedication to mental health advocacy and personalized treatment has earned him respect and recognition in his field, having served on local and national boards developing best mental health practices.
(517) 777-0292 View (517) 777-0292
Photo of Shelby Hope, MD, Psychiatrist
Shelby Hope
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Dr. Shelby Hope is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2024. She completed her Residency training at Trinity Health Livonia Hospital and her Medical school at University of Mississippi Medical Center. Dr. Hope is dedicated to approaching each patient as a unique individual and embracing empathy and compassion throughout their journey. By integrating evidencebased practices, including medication management and therapy, Dr. Hope tailors personalized care plans to suit their specific needs. Her ultimate aim is to collaborate with each patient to assist in their fulfillment and wellbeing. Outside of work, Dr.
Dr. Shelby Hope is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2024. She completed her Residency training at Trinity Health Livonia Hospital and her Medical school at University of Mississippi Medical Center. Dr. Hope is dedicated to approaching each patient as a unique individual and embracing empathy and compassion throughout their journey. By integrating evidencebased practices, including medication management and therapy, Dr. Hope tailors personalized care plans to suit their specific needs. Her ultimate aim is to collaborate with each patient to assist in their fulfillment and wellbeing. Outside of work, Dr.
(517) 550-5062 View (517) 550-5062
Photo of Jeffrey Frey, Psychiatrist
Jeffrey Frey
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Dr. Frey is a general adult psychiatrist who completed his residency training in 2012. He graduated from the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, completed his internship at Henry Ford Hospital in Warren/Detroit, MI, and his residency in psychiatry at Michigan State University. Dr. Frey is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Prior to entering private/outpatient practice, he served as director of Michigan State University's inpatient psychiatry service through Sparrow/St. Lawrence Hospital.
Dr. Frey is a general adult psychiatrist who completed his residency training in 2012. He graduated from the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, completed his internship at Henry Ford Hospital in Warren/Detroit, MI, and his residency in psychiatry at Michigan State University. Dr. Frey is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Prior to entering private/outpatient practice, he served as director of Michigan State University's inpatient psychiatry service through Sparrow/St. Lawrence Hospital.
(517) 210-0012 View (517) 210-0012
Photo of Raed Yousif, MD, Psychiatrist
Raed Yousif
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Dr. Raed Yousif is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2006. He is a Medical Doctor with an American board certification in psychiatry, an American board certification in addiction psychiatry, and a Master's degree in basic medical science from Wayne State University. Dr. Yousif interviews the client, makes a diagnosis, and decides on the best way to treat the client. Outside of work, Dr. Yousif enjoys reading, listening to music, soccer, and table tennis.
Dr. Raed Yousif is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2006. He is a Medical Doctor with an American board certification in psychiatry, an American board certification in addiction psychiatry, and a Master's degree in basic medical science from Wayne State University. Dr. Yousif interviews the client, makes a diagnosis, and decides on the best way to treat the client. Outside of work, Dr. Yousif enjoys reading, listening to music, soccer, and table tennis.
(517) 201-0299 View (517) 201-0299
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48910
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (517) 507-3108 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (517) 507-3108 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(517) 507-3108 View (517) 507-3108
Photo of Dr. Natalie Sadik, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Natalie Sadik
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits.
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits.
(517) 550-5430 View (517) 550-5430
Photo of Gerri Hagadon-Szakal, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gerri Hagadon-Szakal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
I am board certified as both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. My focus is to improve the mental health status of the individual, family and community through emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention, by focusing on self-responsibility, education and treatment. I am a graduate of Michigan State University, Rush University in Chicago and Oakland University in Rochester, MI. I am an experienced nurse practitioner having a passion for working with children, adolescents and young adults. I have been a family nurse practitioner for 22 years and psychiatric provider for 14 years.
I am board certified as both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. My focus is to improve the mental health status of the individual, family and community through emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention, by focusing on self-responsibility, education and treatment. I am a graduate of Michigan State University, Rush University in Chicago and Oakland University in Rochester, MI. I am an experienced nurse practitioner having a passion for working with children, adolescents and young adults. I have been a family nurse practitioner for 22 years and psychiatric provider for 14 years.
(517) 684-3584 View (517) 684-3584
Photo of Eucheria Mbata, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eucheria Mbata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48933
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
(929) 412-1179 View (929) 412-1179
Luann Watts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Luann Watts is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating the mental health needs of clients of all ages, diagnoses and needs. Luann has 20 years of experience working in healthcare including private practice, hospital and a state of the art free-standing behavioral health hospital supporting a trauma informed care approach. Luann supports motivation interviewing style while providing mental health diagnosis, medication treatment and management while also educating the patient. Luann strives to put her patients needs first.
Luann Watts is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating the mental health needs of clients of all ages, diagnoses and needs. Luann has 20 years of experience working in healthcare including private practice, hospital and a state of the art free-standing behavioral health hospital supporting a trauma informed care approach. Luann supports motivation interviewing style while providing mental health diagnosis, medication treatment and management while also educating the patient. Luann strives to put her patients needs first.
(877) 330-2459 View (877) 330-2459
Photo of Julianne Bender, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julianne Bender
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Julianne works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Julianne believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Julianne works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Julianne believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
(517) 258-3623 View (517) 258-3623
Photo of Jakie Conachan, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jakie Conachan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Jakie Conachan, PMHNPBC, is a compassionate and experienced advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health, dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to patients across Michigan. With over 22 years in the healthcare field, Jakie has a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health and works collaboratively with her patients to create personalized care plans. She treats patients as equals, using motivational interviewing to facilitate personal growth and empower individuals to take an active role in their mental health journey.
Jakie Conachan, PMHNPBC, is a compassionate and experienced advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health, dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to patients across Michigan. With over 22 years in the healthcare field, Jakie has a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health and works collaboratively with her patients to create personalized care plans. She treats patients as equals, using motivational interviewing to facilitate personal growth and empower individuals to take an active role in their mental health journey.
(877) 330-2459 View (877) 330-2459
Photo of Ryan Upson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Upson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Ryan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College in Weston Massachusetts and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Ryan has experience working in the acute psychiatric inpatient setting, partial hospitalization setting, and in the outpatient setting. Ryan is passionate about providing quality mental health services using a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and a commitment to individualized, comprehensive care for all patients, rooted in empathy and cultural sensitivity.
Ryan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College in Weston Massachusetts and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Ryan has experience working in the acute psychiatric inpatient setting, partial hospitalization setting, and in the outpatient setting. Ryan is passionate about providing quality mental health services using a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and a commitment to individualized, comprehensive care for all patients, rooted in empathy and cultural sensitivity.
(517) 760-5844 View (517) 760-5844
Photo of Billie Foley, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Billie Foley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48906
Meet Billie Foley, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who’s here to support you on your mental health journey! Billie offers compassionate, evidence-based medication management, thorough evaluations, and a down-to-earth approach to creating realistic goals. She understands the challenges of mental health and works closely with each person to develop a treatment plan that feels right. With a focus on your overall well-being, Billie is here to listen, support, and help you feel your best. Her goal is to help patients achieve total remission of symptoms whenever possible.
Meet Billie Foley, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who’s here to support you on your mental health journey! Billie offers compassionate, evidence-based medication management, thorough evaluations, and a down-to-earth approach to creating realistic goals. She understands the challenges of mental health and works closely with each person to develop a treatment plan that feels right. With a focus on your overall well-being, Billie is here to listen, support, and help you feel your best. Her goal is to help patients achieve total remission of symptoms whenever possible.
(517) 480-8388 View (517) 480-8388
Photo of Melissa Black, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Melissa has been working in behavioral health support in the Greater Lansing community for nearly 20 years. Her experience includes teaching yoga and meditation, supporting community inclusion and independence for folks with disabilities, acute and outpatient psychiatric nursing care, and currently as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, since 2022. Melissa aims to meet each person where they are to work together on a plan of care that is holistically centered on the whole human- mind, body, and spirit.
Melissa has been working in behavioral health support in the Greater Lansing community for nearly 20 years. Her experience includes teaching yoga and meditation, supporting community inclusion and independence for folks with disabilities, acute and outpatient psychiatric nursing care, and currently as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, since 2022. Melissa aims to meet each person where they are to work together on a plan of care that is holistically centered on the whole human- mind, body, and spirit.
(517) 901-7190 View (517) 901-7190
Photo of Deanna Reed, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deanna Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Deanna is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science of Nursing from Walden University and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Michigan-Flint. Deanna has worked in the Lansing area. Deanna is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to patients from 18 to 65+. Deanna has worked with the mental health community for the past 15 years, with the local community mental health and inpatient psychiatric setting. She holds an interest in treating all mental illnesses and promoting overall well-being.
Deanna is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science of Nursing from Walden University and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Michigan-Flint. Deanna has worked in the Lansing area. Deanna is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to patients from 18 to 65+. Deanna has worked with the mental health community for the past 15 years, with the local community mental health and inpatient psychiatric setting. She holds an interest in treating all mental illnesses and promoting overall well-being.
(517) 994-1462 View (517) 994-1462
Photo of Omar Waqhar, DO, Psychiatrist
Omar Waqhar
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48910
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the person you want to be? At Granada Psychiatry, I work with individuals who are ready to take control of their mental health and reclaim their sense of purpose. My ideal clients are adults and adolescents navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or substance abuse. They seek a safe, judgment-free space to be heard and understood while working towards lasting change. Whether you're struggling to find balance, battling feelings of hopelessness, or managing complex mental health conditions, my goal is to help you uncover the tools and resilience you already
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the person you want to be? At Granada Psychiatry, I work with individuals who are ready to take control of their mental health and reclaim their sense of purpose. My ideal clients are adults and adolescents navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or substance abuse. They seek a safe, judgment-free space to be heard and understood while working towards lasting change. Whether you're struggling to find balance, battling feelings of hopelessness, or managing complex mental health conditions, my goal is to help you uncover the tools and resilience you already
(734) 349-3719 View (734) 349-3719
Photo of Laurie Kuehl, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laurie Kuehl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Laurie Kuehl is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2008. Laurie’s experience includes working with patients across the lifespan. After 16 years, her life goals changed, and became more focused on mental health. Mental health needs are increasing, and Laurie wants to be in a position to help patients recover and improve their quality of life. Her psychiatry experience includes family medicine, emergency department, urgent care, and care for the homeless.
Laurie Kuehl is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2008. Laurie’s experience includes working with patients across the lifespan. After 16 years, her life goals changed, and became more focused on mental health. Mental health needs are increasing, and Laurie wants to be in a position to help patients recover and improve their quality of life. Her psychiatry experience includes family medicine, emergency department, urgent care, and care for the homeless.
(517) 684-3223 View (517) 684-3223
Photo of Dr. Ronald Bradley, PhD, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronald Bradley
Psychiatrist, PhD, DO
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Ronald H Bradley, DO, PhD, offers a deeply personalized approach to psychiatric care for individuals across Michigan. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Bradley integrates psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, taking a holistic view of each person’s unique biopsychosocial makeup. His approach emphasizes a deep understanding of developmental milestones and the distinctive factors that shape each individual's mental health. Dr. Bradley specializes in treating children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that patients of all ages receive tailored, compassionate care. Dr.
Ronald H Bradley, DO, PhD, offers a deeply personalized approach to psychiatric care for individuals across Michigan. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Bradley integrates psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, taking a holistic view of each person’s unique biopsychosocial makeup. His approach emphasizes a deep understanding of developmental milestones and the distinctive factors that shape each individual's mental health. Dr. Bradley specializes in treating children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that patients of all ages receive tailored, compassionate care. Dr.
(877) 330-2459 View (877) 330-2459
Photo of Dawn Smith, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawn Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Dawn Smith is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing in mid-Michigan. She specializes in depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and panic disorders. Dawn works with people needing mental health support aged 6-65 years. Dawn is committed to providing holistic care, integrating mind, body, spirit, behaviors, and emotions for an integrated treatment plan. She has experience providing care in a variety of settings for mental health treatment including residential, long term, outpatient clinics, public health, and personal experience with family members and community.
Dawn Smith is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing in mid-Michigan. She specializes in depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and panic disorders. Dawn works with people needing mental health support aged 6-65 years. Dawn is committed to providing holistic care, integrating mind, body, spirit, behaviors, and emotions for an integrated treatment plan. She has experience providing care in a variety of settings for mental health treatment including residential, long term, outpatient clinics, public health, and personal experience with family members and community.
(517) 258-3897 View (517) 258-3897
Photo of Jean O'Brien, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jean O'Brien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48911
Jean O'Brien, PMHNP, is a dedicated and experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner serving patients across Michigan through LifeStance Health. He is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care for individuals across the lifespan, with a particular focus on adolescents, adults, and seniors. Jean's approach to treatment is rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. Jean specializes in treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, bringing a deep understanding of these conditions to his practice.
Jean O'Brien, PMHNP, is a dedicated and experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner serving patients across Michigan through LifeStance Health. He is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care for individuals across the lifespan, with a particular focus on adolescents, adults, and seniors. Jean's approach to treatment is rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. Jean specializes in treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, bringing a deep understanding of these conditions to his practice.
(877) 330-2459 View (877) 330-2459
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lansing, MI

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Lansing, MI who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
88% Anxiety
86% Trauma and PTSD
81% Bipolar Disorder
74% Medication Management
67% ADHD
62% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Lansing, MI see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 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.

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.