Psychiatrists in Bloomington, MN

Photo of Dr. Cedric Skillon, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Cedric Skillon
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Cedric Skillon is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Skillon’s clinical expertise includes treating adults with depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, substance -related and addictive disorders, and trauma related disorders. Dr. Skillon has worked in a variety of mental health care settings including academia, community mental health centers, and a substance use treatment center. Dr. Skillon grew up in Detroit, Michigan. He obtained his Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University.
Dr. Cedric Skillon is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Skillon’s clinical expertise includes treating adults with depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, substance -related and addictive disorders, and trauma related disorders. Dr. Skillon has worked in a variety of mental health care settings including academia, community mental health centers, and a substance use treatment center. Dr. Skillon grew up in Detroit, Michigan. He obtained his Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University.
(952) 260-1066 View (952) 260-1066
Photo of Phoebe Nyabando - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Bloomington, MN 55435
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(952) 856-3123 View (952) 856-3123
Photo of Dr. Dung Truong, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Dung Truong
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Note: This provider cannot prescribe controlled substances for MN patients. Dr. Dung (“Young”) Truong is board-certified in both psychiatry and family medicine. Prior to joining Talkiatry, he worked in a busy Minneapolis emergency room for 20 years. He cared for patients presenting in mental health crisis, treating their acute presentation and helping find solutions to their concerns, ranging from starting and adjusting medications to identifying and addressing contributing factors such as medical illness, substance use, and life stressors.
Note: This provider cannot prescribe controlled substances for MN patients. Dr. Dung (“Young”) Truong is board-certified in both psychiatry and family medicine. Prior to joining Talkiatry, he worked in a busy Minneapolis emergency room for 20 years. He cared for patients presenting in mental health crisis, treating their acute presentation and helping find solutions to their concerns, ranging from starting and adjusting medications to identifying and addressing contributing factors such as medical illness, substance use, and life stressors.
(952) 209-8490 View (952) 209-8490
Photo of Krista Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN
Krista Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN
Bloomington, MN 55435
Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees in Nursing from The College of St. Scholastica. Krista provides a nonjudgmental approach to patient centered care and tries to avoid the "one size fits all" approach to patient care. Outside of work, Krista really loves to travel and explore new places. Hiking is one of her favorite activities, especially when the weather is nice.Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees i
Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees in Nursing from The College of St. Scholastica. Krista provides a nonjudgmental approach to patient centered care and tries to avoid the "one size fits all" approach to patient care. Outside of work, Krista really loves to travel and explore new places. Hiking is one of her favorite activities, especially when the weather is nice.Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees i
(952) 900-3693 View (952) 900-3693
Photo of Nicole Mislivec, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Nicole Mislivec
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Your brain is craving calm, clarity, and care you can trust. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, or just feeling stuck - you deserve better. I offer a reset: thoughtful support, innovative treatment options, and a real connection. Together, we’ll dig into the hard stuff with a mix of empathy, humor, and practical strategies. And yes, I'm going to prescribe you medications that DO help, with fewer side effects.
Your brain is craving calm, clarity, and care you can trust. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, or just feeling stuck - you deserve better. I offer a reset: thoughtful support, innovative treatment options, and a real connection. Together, we’ll dig into the hard stuff with a mix of empathy, humor, and practical strategies. And yes, I'm going to prescribe you medications that DO help, with fewer side effects.
(952) 592-4360 View (952) 592-4360
Photo of James Tutu Fiske, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN
James Tutu Fiske
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN
Bloomington, MN 55435
James T. Fiske has worked as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2020, after obtaining his graduate degree from the University of Arizona with honors and then passing the board exam. He worked as an outpatient provider for homeless people with a history of substance abuse and other comorbid psychiatric conditions. He later and currently works as a crisis provider with over a year of experience in that field.
James T. Fiske has worked as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2020, after obtaining his graduate degree from the University of Arizona with honors and then passing the board exam. He worked as an outpatient provider for homeless people with a history of substance abuse and other comorbid psychiatric conditions. He later and currently works as a crisis provider with over a year of experience in that field.
(952) 260-8537 View (952) 260-8537
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Bloomington, MN 55425
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Minnesota patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Minnesota patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.
(612) 284-0573 View (612) 284-0573
Photo of Cassie Renee Rider, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Cassie Renee Rider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Cassie Rider is a Telehealth-only provider that specializes in chemical dependency and mental health concerns. Cassie is also a MAT service provider for Suboxone. Cassie is the Owner and founder of Faith Forward Psychiatry which is licensed to practice in Minnesota and is currently accepting new patients >16 years old.
Cassie Rider is a Telehealth-only provider that specializes in chemical dependency and mental health concerns. Cassie is also a MAT service provider for Suboxone. Cassie is the Owner and founder of Faith Forward Psychiatry which is licensed to practice in Minnesota and is currently accepting new patients >16 years old.
(651) 615-8006 View (651) 615-8006
Photo of Dr. Dana Eason, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Dana Eason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55425
Now offering ADHD testing! Facing life’s challenges are difficult enough without struggling to find a provider that will take the time to listen & partner with you in your care. Well, search no more! Dr. Dana believes providing compassion & building a strong rapport are the foundations to creating a trusting partnership. She doesn't believe in "cookie cutter" approaches. Rather, Dr. Dana considers several interventions to help you achieve an optimal quality of life based on your specific needs & stressors: psychotherapy, psychotropic medication & integrative psychiatry (e.g. herbs, supplements, essential oils, plant-based medicine).
Now offering ADHD testing! Facing life’s challenges are difficult enough without struggling to find a provider that will take the time to listen & partner with you in your care. Well, search no more! Dr. Dana believes providing compassion & building a strong rapport are the foundations to creating a trusting partnership. She doesn't believe in "cookie cutter" approaches. Rather, Dr. Dana considers several interventions to help you achieve an optimal quality of life based on your specific needs & stressors: psychotherapy, psychotropic medication & integrative psychiatry (e.g. herbs, supplements, essential oils, plant-based medicine).
(248) 710-0775 View (248) 710-0775
Becoming Behavioral Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Bloomington, MN 55425
My ideal client is someone navigating mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma. They’re seeking compassionate, culturally aware support that helps them feel heard, safe, and understood. Their goal is to feel emotionally stable, empowered, and equipped with tools to manage life’s stressors. They want to reclaim their peace, rebuild confidence, and live with greater balance and purpose.
My ideal client is someone navigating mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma. They’re seeking compassionate, culturally aware support that helps them feel heard, safe, and understood. Their goal is to feel emotionally stable, empowered, and equipped with tools to manage life’s stressors. They want to reclaim their peace, rebuild confidence, and live with greater balance and purpose.
(952) 592-8939 View (952) 592-8939
Photo of Michelle Trevino - AIM Psychiatric Mental Health Services LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, APRN
AIM Psychiatric Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. We want to help!
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. We want to help!
(952) 234-7153 View (952) 234-7153
Photo of Sylvia Saboutey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sylvia Saboutey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bloomington, MN 55435
Sylvia Saboutey, PMHNP, is dedicated to supporting patients in Minnesota with compassionate, evidencebased mental health care. Through her expertise in medication management, she helps individuals aged 15 and older navigate challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. Sylvia collaborates closely with her patients to develop personalized treatment plans aimed at improving overall wellbeing and fostering resilience. Sylvia has a particular passion for addressing complex mental health concerns, including PTSDtrauma, sleep disorders, and postpartum depressionanxiety.
Sylvia Saboutey, PMHNP, is dedicated to supporting patients in Minnesota with compassionate, evidencebased mental health care. Through her expertise in medication management, she helps individuals aged 15 and older navigate challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. Sylvia collaborates closely with her patients to develop personalized treatment plans aimed at improving overall wellbeing and fostering resilience. Sylvia has a particular passion for addressing complex mental health concerns, including PTSDtrauma, sleep disorders, and postpartum depressionanxiety.
(952) 881-6897 View (952) 881-6897
Photo of Phoebe Nyabando, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Nyaband
Phoebe Nyabando
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Nyaband
Bloomington, MN 55435
Phoebe Nyabando is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master of Science Degree with a major in Mental Health. Prior to that she was a registered nurse for 8 years with most of her time in inpatient psychiatry. Phoebe has experience in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has eight years of experience working as a nurse, with most of her time in inpatient psychiatry and mental health. Phoebe's treatment model is a holistic approach and patient-centered care.
Phoebe Nyabando is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master of Science Degree with a major in Mental Health. Prior to that she was a registered nurse for 8 years with most of her time in inpatient psychiatry. Phoebe has experience in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has eight years of experience working as a nurse, with most of her time in inpatient psychiatry and mental health. Phoebe's treatment model is a holistic approach and patient-centered care.
(952) 800-7442 View (952) 800-7442
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Twing, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jennifer Twing
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr Jennifer Twing is a board-certified physician in Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate studies in Neuroscience and Behavior at Vassar College in New York, medical education at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland and Psychiatry Residency at the University of North Dakota in Fargo, ND. She has experience working in a variety of settings treating psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. She is also currently training to be certified in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
Dr Jennifer Twing is a board-certified physician in Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate studies in Neuroscience and Behavior at Vassar College in New York, medical education at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland and Psychiatry Residency at the University of North Dakota in Fargo, ND. She has experience working in a variety of settings treating psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. She is also currently training to be certified in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
(952) 395-6923 View (952) 395-6923
Photo of Idowu O Oshokoya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Idowu O Oshokoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Idowu Oshokoya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. He works with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and provides care for patients who are battling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolars, and other mental disorders. Idowu studied at Walden University, where he obtained a Master of Science in PMHNP. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. He has extensive training and 10 years of experience with behavioral health. He has provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 6 different teaching hospitals.
Idowu Oshokoya is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. He works with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and provides care for patients who are battling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolars, and other mental disorders. Idowu studied at Walden University, where he obtained a Master of Science in PMHNP. He has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. He has extensive training and 10 years of experience with behavioral health. He has provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 6 different teaching hospitals.
(952) 592-0972 View (952) 592-0972
Photo of Fatuma Guhad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Fatuma Guhad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55435
Fatuma Guhad, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced mental health provider serving patients throughout Minnesota. She offers personalized care to adolescents, adults, and seniors, focusing on medication management and individual therapy. Fatuma is committed to helping her patients navigate life s challenges by fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship that emphasizes understanding and growth. Her expertise spans a wide range of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma, allowing her to tailor treatment to meet each patient s unique needs.
Fatuma Guhad, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced mental health provider serving patients throughout Minnesota. She offers personalized care to adolescents, adults, and seniors, focusing on medication management and individual therapy. Fatuma is committed to helping her patients navigate life s challenges by fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship that emphasizes understanding and growth. Her expertise spans a wide range of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma, allowing her to tailor treatment to meet each patient s unique needs.
(952) 230-0385 View (952) 230-0385
Photo of Kendall Monroe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Kendall Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55438
www.hylandpsychiatry.com is owned and operated by Kendall Monroe APRN. Please book your first appointment via my website above. I offer telepsychiatry as well as in-person services working with people 15+ up to 65 years of age. Younger than 15 years of age are accepted on a case-by-case basis however, if you have worked with me previously I am happy to continue treatment. I have built my practice to be tech savvy, engaging, and to utilize measurement based care.
www.hylandpsychiatry.com is owned and operated by Kendall Monroe APRN. Please book your first appointment via my website above. I offer telepsychiatry as well as in-person services working with people 15+ up to 65 years of age. Younger than 15 years of age are accepted on a case-by-case basis however, if you have worked with me previously I am happy to continue treatment. I have built my practice to be tech savvy, engaging, and to utilize measurement based care.
(612) 778-2690 View (612) 778-2690
Photo of Dr. Nicholas Hatcher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CIPP
Dr. Nicholas Hatcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CIPP
Online Only
So many have encountered the failure of the standard approach to psychiatric care (short appointments where you're left feeling unheard, lack of responsiveness from the provider, one-size-fits-all treatments and diagnoses, never getting to the cause, etc.). I like working with those who want to get more out of psychiatric care than this system provides. Those who need a more holistic, root cause-oriented, and personalized approach to care. Those who want to realize their unfolding potential and achieve their goals, not just suppress symptoms. Because you know, something more and different is needed to achieve wholeness.
So many have encountered the failure of the standard approach to psychiatric care (short appointments where you're left feeling unheard, lack of responsiveness from the provider, one-size-fits-all treatments and diagnoses, never getting to the cause, etc.). I like working with those who want to get more out of psychiatric care than this system provides. Those who need a more holistic, root cause-oriented, and personalized approach to care. Those who want to realize their unfolding potential and achieve their goals, not just suppress symptoms. Because you know, something more and different is needed to achieve wholeness.
(612) 682-7838 View (612) 682-7838
Photo of Fatima I Omar - Lifespan Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Lifespan Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, thanks for stopping by I'm Fatima, I'm a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, in past 15 years I have served patients in medical and mental health facilities both inpatient and outpatient. I have in the past and currently am comfortable with treating patients that are struggling with complex medical and mental health conditions. I enjoy working with patients utilizing a collaborative approach in finding solutions for various mental health challenges/conditions. I am currently accepting new patients.
Hi, thanks for stopping by I'm Fatima, I'm a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, in past 15 years I have served patients in medical and mental health facilities both inpatient and outpatient. I have in the past and currently am comfortable with treating patients that are struggling with complex medical and mental health conditions. I enjoy working with patients utilizing a collaborative approach in finding solutions for various mental health challenges/conditions. I am currently accepting new patients.
(253) 342-4034 View (253) 342-4034
Photo of Abdirizak Nuno, Psychiatrist, MD
Abdirizak Nuno
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55437
In my practice, we are currently accepting NEW patients for medication management, therapy, chemical dependency treatment including suboxone. We also provide esketamine/spravato. My interests are varied and include a wide spectrum of disorders, such as major depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, ADHD and PTSD. I explore the biological, psychological and social components of mental illness and utilize tools and interventions to evaluate and treat my patients, including diagnostic laboratory tests, prescribed medications and coping strategies. We accept most insurances and private pay.
In my practice, we are currently accepting NEW patients for medication management, therapy, chemical dependency treatment including suboxone. We also provide esketamine/spravato. My interests are varied and include a wide spectrum of disorders, such as major depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, ADHD and PTSD. I explore the biological, psychological and social components of mental illness and utilize tools and interventions to evaluate and treat my patients, including diagnostic laboratory tests, prescribed medications and coping strategies. We accept most insurances and private pay.
(952) 230-3944 View (952) 230-3944

See more therapy options for Bloomington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bloomington, MN

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Bloomington, MN who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
90% Depression
87% Bipolar Disorder
83% ADHD
80% Trauma and PTSD
77% Medication Management
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Bloomington, MN see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bloomington?

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.