Psychiatrists in Clear Lake, MN

Photo of Roxanne Dobrava, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roxanne Dobrava
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clear Lake, MN 55319  (Online Only)
An ideal client for Roxanne DoBrava, might be an individual grappling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, seeking a compassionate and effective approach to treatment. Do you feel overwhelmed by your mental health struggles and are yearning for stability and understanding? Do you need a professional who not only listens but also empowers you through evidence-based treatments and empathetic care. Do your goals include managing symptoms, developing coping strategies, and achieving a sense of normalcy and balance in their life? Roxanne wants you to feel heard, respected, and be involved in your care.
An ideal client for Roxanne DoBrava, might be an individual grappling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, seeking a compassionate and effective approach to treatment. Do you feel overwhelmed by your mental health struggles and are yearning for stability and understanding? Do you need a professional who not only listens but also empowers you through evidence-based treatments and empathetic care. Do your goals include managing symptoms, developing coping strategies, and achieving a sense of normalcy and balance in their life? Roxanne wants you to feel heard, respected, and be involved in your care.
(763) 325-8214 View (763) 325-8214

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Gladys Ndege, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gladys Ndege
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking relief and a path to emotional stability. They may feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts, mood swings, or past experiences and are looking for compassionate, client-centered care. Their goal is to regain control of their mental health, develop coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. They want a collaborative approach, personalized to their needs, that helps them feel understood, supported, and empowered to live a balanced, fulfilling life.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking relief and a path to emotional stability. They may feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts, mood swings, or past experiences and are looking for compassionate, client-centered care. Their goal is to regain control of their mental health, develop coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. They want a collaborative approach, personalized to their needs, that helps them feel understood, supported, and empowered to live a balanced, fulfilling life.
(651) 372-1078 View (651) 372-1078
Photo of Akenzua Agbator, CNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Akenzua Agbator
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Akenzua Agbator is a board-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. His approach prioritizes active listening, trust, respect, collaboration, and empathy. By truly listening to clients and their experiences, he offers personalized and effective care, especially for those facing complex and persistent mental health challenges. He is caring, friendly and always greets his clients with a warm smile. He is trained to treat depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and a variety of other mental health disorders.
Akenzua Agbator is a board-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. His approach prioritizes active listening, trust, respect, collaboration, and empathy. By truly listening to clients and their experiences, he offers personalized and effective care, especially for those facing complex and persistent mental health challenges. He is caring, friendly and always greets his clients with a warm smile. He is trained to treat depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and a variety of other mental health disorders.
(763) 298-2841 View (763) 298-2841
Photo of Jamie Jones, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Otsego, MN 55330
Medication/Therapy - Ready for a Change? If you're: - Feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or relationships - Experiencing anxiety, depression - Going through a significant life transition - Ready to leave the status quo behind and embrace positive change ...then it's time to take the next step in your personal growth journey. I specialize in helping motivated individuals like you navigate life's challenges and transitions. Clients are typically: College students striving personal excellence - Business professionals aiming to balance career and personal fulfillment - Entrepreneurs seeking to overcome imposter syndrome.
Medication/Therapy - Ready for a Change? If you're: - Feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or relationships - Experiencing anxiety, depression - Going through a significant life transition - Ready to leave the status quo behind and embrace positive change ...then it's time to take the next step in your personal growth journey. I specialize in helping motivated individuals like you navigate life's challenges and transitions. Clients are typically: College students striving personal excellence - Business professionals aiming to balance career and personal fulfillment - Entrepreneurs seeking to overcome imposter syndrome.
(763) 401-7520 View (763) 401-7520
Photo of Lisa Ocker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Ocker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Welcome to LR Psychiatry and Counseling Services specializing in Integrative Medication Management. I am hoping to be your trusted resource for holistic and comprehensive mental health care. I believe in the power of an integrative approach to medication management, addressing not only the symptoms but the whole person.
Welcome to LR Psychiatry and Counseling Services specializing in Integrative Medication Management. I am hoping to be your trusted resource for holistic and comprehensive mental health care. I believe in the power of an integrative approach to medication management, addressing not only the symptoms but the whole person.
(763) 325-8736 View (763) 325-8736
Photo of Noussaiba Ayour, PA, Physician Assistant
Noussaiba Ayour
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks compassionate, holistic care for challenges like anxiety, ADHD, or weight management. They want a tailored treatment plan that addresses their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Their goal is to achieve balanced health, and they value a collaborative approach in their healthcare journey.
My ideal client seeks compassionate, holistic care for challenges like anxiety, ADHD, or weight management. They want a tailored treatment plan that addresses their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Their goal is to achieve balanced health, and they value a collaborative approach in their healthcare journey.
(651) 946-5981 View (651) 946-5981
Photo of Alison Sample, PMHNPBC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alison Sample
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I am committed to providing patient-centered care that respects individual treatment goals. I understand the challenges many face in accessing quality mental health care, particularly in overcoming stigma and limited resources. My experience at a large, diverse county hospital has deepened my respect for the struggles surrounding mental health, substance use, and economic insecurity.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I am committed to providing patient-centered care that respects individual treatment goals. I understand the challenges many face in accessing quality mental health care, particularly in overcoming stigma and limited resources. My experience at a large, diverse county hospital has deepened my respect for the struggles surrounding mental health, substance use, and economic insecurity.
(651) 615-8549 View (651) 615-8549
Photo of Deborah Troy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Troy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Board Certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Hello, I am Board Certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(763) 314-3787 View (763) 314-3787
Photo of Haley Carlock, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Haley Carlock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55446  (Online Only)
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
(763) 294-7972 View (763) 294-7972
Photo of Agnes Limunga Jackai, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Agnes Limunga Jackai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Now accepting new clients within 48 hours with no waiting list. Seeking mental health wellness will empower your day-to-day life, healthy behaviors, self-management, and well-being. Start the Healing process. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 11 + years of inpatient and outpatient nursing experience in various healthcare settings. I earned my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. I'm specialized in Psych Med Management, evaluation, Prescription / Refill, Med Review, and Follow-up for individuals across the lifespan. I works with adults, adolescents, and children 8 +.
Now accepting new clients within 48 hours with no waiting list. Seeking mental health wellness will empower your day-to-day life, healthy behaviors, self-management, and well-being. Start the Healing process. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 11 + years of inpatient and outpatient nursing experience in various healthcare settings. I earned my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. I'm specialized in Psych Med Management, evaluation, Prescription / Refill, Med Review, and Follow-up for individuals across the lifespan. I works with adults, adolescents, and children 8 +.
(651) 390-1495 View (651) 390-1495
Photo of Chinwe Eke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinwe Eke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Minnesota. I received my Masters from Liberty University, Virginia, and have been practicing for 2 years. I help young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, career stress, and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
Hi! I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Minnesota. I received my Masters from Liberty University, Virginia, and have been practicing for 2 years. I help young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, career stress, and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
(763) 888-8931 View (763) 888-8931
Photo of Denay Kelly, FNP-C, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denay Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Denay Kelly, your compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatric and hospital medicine. With a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, I've cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs. Throughout my career, I've embraced various pivotal roles that have allowed me to provide exceptional care in emergency situations and routine health management.
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Denay Kelly, your compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatric and hospital medicine. With a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, I've cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs. Throughout my career, I've embraced various pivotal roles that have allowed me to provide exceptional care in emergency situations and routine health management.
(904) 747-3169 View (904) 747-3169
Photo of Dr. Sara Ocker, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Sara Ocker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
Dr. Ocker graduated from the University of Minnesota, School of Nursing receiving her doctorate in nursing practice specializing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as receiving a graduate certificate in Integrative Health and Healing. Sara has extensive experience in crisis intervention working with a diverse population as she originally received a BA in Sociology – Law, Crime, and Deviance with a focus on Psychology working at a large metropolitan adult detention center and then at a large metropolitan 911 center. Sara continued her education and received a BS in Nursing from the College of St. Scholastica.
Dr. Ocker graduated from the University of Minnesota, School of Nursing receiving her doctorate in nursing practice specializing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as receiving a graduate certificate in Integrative Health and Healing. Sara has extensive experience in crisis intervention working with a diverse population as she originally received a BA in Sociology – Law, Crime, and Deviance with a focus on Psychology working at a large metropolitan adult detention center and then at a large metropolitan 911 center. Sara continued her education and received a BS in Nursing from the College of St. Scholastica.
(612) 682-4337 View (612) 682-4337
Photo of Ediomi 'edee' Enebong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ediomi 'edee' Enebong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
(763) 314-3709 View (763) 314-3709
Photo of John Nwabugwu, PMHNP-B, BC , APR, DNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Nwabugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, BC , APR, DNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55442
As a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner and board-certified psychiatric mental health provider, I believe in providing each patient with holistic, comprehensive care that is effective, efficient, and compassionate. From medication management, to referrals within the health care system, every client is treated based on their individual needs and goals.
As a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner and board-certified psychiatric mental health provider, I believe in providing each patient with holistic, comprehensive care that is effective, efficient, and compassionate. From medication management, to referrals within the health care system, every client is treated based on their individual needs and goals.
(612) 324-2152 View (612) 324-2152
Photo of Nkechi Ezema - Patterns Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55401  (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING new virtual patients with same-week appointments. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illnesses is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
NOW ACCEPTING new virtual patients with same-week appointments. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illnesses is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
(319) 220-6751 View (319) 220-6751
Photo of Lilian Omodi, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilian Omodi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fridley, MN 55432
We are seeing new clients and are focused on providing compassionate care to people with various mental health struggles. We provide client centered care for Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Trauma, Schizophrenia, ADHD and other psychiatric needs.
We are seeing new clients and are focused on providing compassionate care to people with various mental health struggles. We provide client centered care for Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Trauma, Schizophrenia, ADHD and other psychiatric needs.
(612) 662-1214 View (612) 662-1214
Photo of Kayla Parker, CNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayla Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Excelsior, MN 55331
Welcome! I am double board certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I believe in working with my patients to develop a plan that works for their individual needs. I focus on not only mental health but also the physical health of my patients.
Welcome! I am double board certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I believe in working with my patients to develop a plan that works for their individual needs. I focus on not only mental health but also the physical health of my patients.
(763) 373-7617 View (763) 373-7617
Photo of Jessica Wettlin, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Wettlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378  (Online Only)
Jessica is a highly trained and knowledgeable Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree in Nursing and Board Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health. She has spent over 21 years in mental health serving both child and adult clients and is passionate about helping others navigate their own mental health challenges. She started her career in mental health working in both the adult and juvenile correction settings, mental health group homes, and continued on into the Healthcare setting. She has since served in inpatient hospitals, supervised mental health lodging facilities, and taught mental health in Universities and hospitals.
Jessica is a highly trained and knowledgeable Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree in Nursing and Board Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health. She has spent over 21 years in mental health serving both child and adult clients and is passionate about helping others navigate their own mental health challenges. She started her career in mental health working in both the adult and juvenile correction settings, mental health group homes, and continued on into the Healthcare setting. She has since served in inpatient hospitals, supervised mental health lodging facilities, and taught mental health in Universities and hospitals.
(952) 592-4404 View (952) 592-4404
Photo of Israel Sokeye - Plymouth Psych Group, Psychiatrist
Plymouth Psych Group
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MN 55442
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
(763) 225-2551 View (763) 225-2551

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Clear Lake, MN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Clear Lake, MN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Clear Lake, MN see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Clear Lake?

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.