Psychiatrists in Hibbing, MN

Photo of Kirsten Shelton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kirsten Shelton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Hibbing, MN 55746
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized, compassionate mental health care through a fully virtual platform—making support accessible from the comfort and privacy of your own space. Whether you’re seeking therapy, medication management, or support with anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or addiction, I’m here to help you reconnect with yourself, restore balance, and feel like you again.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide personalized, compassionate mental health care through a fully virtual platform—making support accessible from the comfort and privacy of your own space. Whether you’re seeking therapy, medication management, or support with anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or addiction, I’m here to help you reconnect with yourself, restore balance, and feel like you again.
(218) 514-7265 View (218) 514-7265
Photo of Abby Larson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Abby Larson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Hibbing, MN 55746
I provide both in-person and telehealth appointments in Minnesota. I approach each diagnosis with a neutral, individualized perspective, combining clinical expertise with evidence-based practices. I enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan, including: Children & adolescents (age 6+), adults, and older adults. I specialize in assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, such as: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Depression and mood dysregulation, Insomnia & sleep-related difficulties, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar disorder, and Schizophrenia.
I provide both in-person and telehealth appointments in Minnesota. I approach each diagnosis with a neutral, individualized perspective, combining clinical expertise with evidence-based practices. I enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan, including: Children & adolescents (age 6+), adults, and older adults. I specialize in assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, such as: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Depression and mood dysregulation, Insomnia & sleep-related difficulties, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar disorder, and Schizophrenia.
(218) 585-0867 View (218) 585-0867
Photo of Tammy Word, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Tammy Word
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
3 Endorsed
Hibbing, MN 55746
Accepting new patients in MN for in person or telehealth! As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide specialized medication management that targets your unique challenges. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan designed to help you regain control, boost your mood, and enhance your focus. I have extensive experience providing mental health care to individuals across the lifespan including adolescents, adults, and older adults. My clinical expertise includes treating PTSD and trauma-related disorders, substance use and addiction, mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders
Accepting new patients in MN for in person or telehealth! As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide specialized medication management that targets your unique challenges. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan designed to help you regain control, boost your mood, and enhance your focus. I have extensive experience providing mental health care to individuals across the lifespan including adolescents, adults, and older adults. My clinical expertise includes treating PTSD and trauma-related disorders, substance use and addiction, mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders
(218) 261-7087 View (218) 261-7087
Photo of Karen Webster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Karen Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Hibbing, MN 55746
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. I can 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. I can help!
(218) 379-7561 View (218) 379-7561
Photo of Web Med - WebMed Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , FNP, LICSW, LPCC
WebMed Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , FNP, LICSW, LPCC
Serves Area
Our mission is to drive our communities forward with effective, affordable, and accessible mental health and substance use care. Assisting with improving peoples lives by encouraging, developing and maintaining support, community, self reliance & self love. “Making mental health routine care”
Our mission is to drive our communities forward with effective, affordable, and accessible mental health and substance use care. Assisting with improving peoples lives by encouraging, developing and maintaining support, community, self reliance & self love. “Making mental health routine care”
(218) 310-8896 View (218) 310-8896
Photo of Bernice Gyamfi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Bernice Gyamfi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! It is wonderful to meet you. I am boarded certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner and I believe that prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Congratulations on taking this step towards wellness. I look forward to the opportunity to partner with you.
Hello! It is wonderful to meet you. I am boarded certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner and I believe that prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Congratulations on taking this step towards wellness. I look forward to the opportunity to partner with you.
(952) 592-3041 View (952) 592-3041

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Chandra White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chandra White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Chandra. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Minnesota and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently available to see ages 16-65 for medication management services related to Mood disorders like Depression and Bipolar, Anxiety disorders like Generalized anxiety and OCD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder and psychotic disorders. I also do some mindful therapy with Binge Eating Disorder in addition to brief psychotherapy and psychoeducation during medication management appointments.
Hello, I'm Chandra. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Minnesota and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently available to see ages 16-65 for medication management services related to Mood disorders like Depression and Bipolar, Anxiety disorders like Generalized anxiety and OCD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder and psychotic disorders. I also do some mindful therapy with Binge Eating Disorder in addition to brief psychotherapy and psychoeducation during medication management appointments.
(651) 615-4470 View (651) 615-4470
Photo of Nicole Pauline Salami - Nicole Salami, New Leaf Mental Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, -BC
Nicole Salami, New Leaf Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, -BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and is ready to seek support—even if unsure where to start. They value compassionate, collaborative care and want to feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether navigating new symptoms or ongoing challenges, they seek clarity, stability, and a plan that fits their life. With the convenience of telehealth, they appreciate flexible, personalized care that helps them move forward with confidence.
My ideal client is someone feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and is ready to seek support—even if unsure where to start. They value compassionate, collaborative care and want to feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether navigating new symptoms or ongoing challenges, they seek clarity, stability, and a plan that fits their life. With the convenience of telehealth, they appreciate flexible, personalized care that helps them move forward with confidence.
(763) 296-7054 View (763) 296-7054
Photo of Kathy Udovich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Kathy Udovich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance misuse, and other mental health issues across the lifespan. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I endeavor to treat the whole person empathetically, compassionately, and non-judgmentally while maintaining the patient’s dignity.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance misuse, and other mental health issues across the lifespan. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I endeavor to treat the whole person empathetically, compassionately, and non-judgmentally while maintaining the patient’s dignity.
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Photo of Christina Kirchen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Christina Kirchen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Chisholm, MN 55719
Christina is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management and therapy services. She has specialty training in perinatal mental health and also cares for those with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis and all other mental health conditions.
Christina is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management and therapy services. She has specialty training in perinatal mental health and also cares for those with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis and all other mental health conditions.
(218) 254-0101 View (218) 254-0101

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Kari Rengo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Kari Rengo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
What I love about psychiatry is helping you return to your True North. We work together to identify symptoms causing difficulty. We create a treatment plan that is based on your most deeply held beliefs, values, and principles. We celebrate when your symptoms lessen and you feel yourself moving back towards your True North.
What I love about psychiatry is helping you return to your True North. We work together to identify symptoms causing difficulty. We create a treatment plan that is based on your most deeply held beliefs, values, and principles. We celebrate when your symptoms lessen and you feel yourself moving back towards your True North.
(218) 231-5013 View (218) 231-5013
Photo of Johnthap Obakpolor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Johnthap Obakpolor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Duluth, MN 55811
Now accepting new clients. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing compassionate, evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and depression and also support individuals with substance use concerns, mood disorders, trauma-related conditions, and other mental health challenges. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and collaborative, focusing on the whole person. I offer medication management, diagnostic evaluation, and follow-ups, as well as education and ongoing support to help clients feel empowered.
Now accepting new clients. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing compassionate, evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and depression and also support individuals with substance use concerns, mood disorders, trauma-related conditions, and other mental health challenges. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and collaborative, focusing on the whole person. I offer medication management, diagnostic evaluation, and follow-ups, as well as education and ongoing support to help clients feel empowered.
(612) 445-6708 View (612) 445-6708
Photo of Katlyn Bowman - T-Force Health: Mind and Body PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
T-Force Health: Mind and Body PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Online Only
At T-Force Health, I serve clients who are seeking convenient and comprehensive mental health care through telehealth. My clients grapple with busy schedules, limited provider availability, and geographical barriers. Clients need flexible scheduling, access to mental health care, and comprehensive services, that includes therapy and medication management all in one visit. If this sounds appealing, visit our website, where you can easily schedule an online appointment. If you can't find a time that fits yours schedule give us a call and we can help find a time that works best for you!
At T-Force Health, I serve clients who are seeking convenient and comprehensive mental health care through telehealth. My clients grapple with busy schedules, limited provider availability, and geographical barriers. Clients need flexible scheduling, access to mental health care, and comprehensive services, that includes therapy and medication management all in one visit. If this sounds appealing, visit our website, where you can easily schedule an online appointment. If you can't find a time that fits yours schedule give us a call and we can help find a time that works best for you!
(605) 937-8105 View (605) 937-8105
Photo of Jody Murphy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Jody Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been working in nursing since 2001. My approach is all about person-focused and evidence-based care, with a strong belief in the power of a great therapeutic alliance between us. As an autistic, nonbinary, queer psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring my big heart with a unique and personal touch to my practice.
I have been working in nursing since 2001. My approach is all about person-focused and evidence-based care, with a strong belief in the power of a great therapeutic alliance between us. As an autistic, nonbinary, queer psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring my big heart with a unique and personal touch to my practice.
(218) 438-0937 View (218) 438-0937
Photo of Brenda Joy Baker - Select Urgent Care/ Mental Health, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Select Urgent Care/ Mental Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Baxter, MN 56425
By getting to know each patients individual needs and by creating trusting relationships, I hope to provide effective treatment to help patients live their best life.
By getting to know each patients individual needs and by creating trusting relationships, I hope to provide effective treatment to help patients live their best life.
(952) 800-5445 View (952) 800-5445
Photo of Naomi Koenig - Selah Wellness Clinic LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, SANE, ART
Selah Wellness Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, SANE, ART
Sandstone, MN 55072
We work with you on your health. We are here to help you, walk with you on your journey and help you to feel better.
We work with you on your health. We are here to help you, walk with you on your journey and help you to feel better.
(320) 372-2323 View (320) 372-2323
Photo of Jane Parker - Inner Fokus, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Inner Fokus
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Duluth, MN 55802
As an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication evaluations and management, as well as Sexuality Counseling and Education Services to clients at Inner Fokus. My clinical foundation lies within my background as a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing psychiatric medication evaluation and management services. Medication with psychotherapy can provide many people with the highest standard of care. It is a big decision to incorporate medication into your psychological care, but the modalities are complementary, and usually lead to the most significant clinical improvement. Each medication appointment involves a complete assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, and collaborative discussion about treatment recommendations.
As an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication evaluations and management, as well as Sexuality Counseling and Education Services to clients at Inner Fokus. My clinical foundation lies within my background as a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing psychiatric medication evaluation and management services. Medication with psychotherapy can provide many people with the highest standard of care. It is a big decision to incorporate medication into your psychological care, but the modalities are complementary, and usually lead to the most significant clinical improvement. Each medication appointment involves a complete assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, and collaborative discussion about treatment recommendations.
(218) 789-0561 View (218) 789-0561
Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Struggling with focus, overwhelm, or feeling mentally scattered as an adult? At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment with a clear, supportive approach. We offer objective ADHD testing to help guide diagnosis and treatment decisions, available in-office and via telehealth. Our care is evidence-based, personalized, and designed to fit real-life schedules.
Struggling with focus, overwhelm, or feeling mentally scattered as an adult? At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we specialize in adult ADHD assessment and treatment with a clear, supportive approach. We offer objective ADHD testing to help guide diagnosis and treatment decisions, available in-office and via telehealth. Our care is evidence-based, personalized, and designed to fit real-life schedules.
(716) 354-1233 View (716) 354-1233
Photo of Jennie Bata, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Jennie Bata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or other mental health concerns — and you want to feel better. Not just symptom-free, but stable, present, and engaged in your life. You want a thoughtful approach to medication that’s personalized, collaborative, and grounded.
You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or other mental health concerns — and you want to feel better. Not just symptom-free, but stable, present, and engaged in your life. You want a thoughtful approach to medication that’s personalized, collaborative, and grounded.
(218) 304-6520 View (218) 304-6520
Photo of Mary Lee Beck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Mary Lee Beck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Online Only
Hello! My name is Mary Lee Beck and I am a licensed, board-certified psychiatric/mental health practitioner with expanded education, licensure and experience in family medicine. I am and willing to see anyone who feels they are not living the life they want, and need a someone to help them achieve psychological well-being. Having been down the mental health road myself, from mental health disorder to mental health well-being, it became clear to me that my true passion in healthcare is to be alongside you, in your journey to mentaI health and mental well-being.
Hello! My name is Mary Lee Beck and I am a licensed, board-certified psychiatric/mental health practitioner with expanded education, licensure and experience in family medicine. I am and willing to see anyone who feels they are not living the life they want, and need a someone to help them achieve psychological well-being. Having been down the mental health road myself, from mental health disorder to mental health well-being, it became clear to me that my true passion in healthcare is to be alongside you, in your journey to mentaI health and mental well-being.
(218) 757-6854 View (218) 757-6854

See more therapy options for Hibbing

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hibbing, MN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Hibbing, MN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
83% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Hibbing, MN see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hibbing?

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.