Psychiatrists in Itasca County, MN

Photo of Ellen Cochran, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ellen Cochran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my primary goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. I know that seeking help for mental health can be a significant step, and I want you to know that you are not alone in this journey. Together, we will explore your unique needs and work collaboratively to develop a personalized plan that helps you thrive. I believe in a compassionate, holistic approach to care, combining evidence-based treatments with a deep respect for your individual experiences.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my primary goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. I know that seeking help for mental health can be a significant step, and I want you to know that you are not alone in this journey. Together, we will explore your unique needs and work collaboratively to develop a personalized plan that helps you thrive. I believe in a compassionate, holistic approach to care, combining evidence-based treatments with a deep respect for your individual experiences.
(218) 245-4889 View (218) 245-4889
Photo of Kristin Mary Sorensen, PMH-NP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristin Mary Sorensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
I appreciate the opportunity to work with children, adolescent and adult clients. I see clients via a privacy protected telemedicine-video conferencing platform (Telemedicine) and in person if preferred. I welcome those who are feeling down, anxious, having difficulty focusing or controlling behavior and those who are concerned with alcohol and drug use. If you have longstanding psychiatric concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, attention deficit and addictions, I will conduct a thorough review of medication and hospitalization history and together, we will create a unique plan of care for you.
I appreciate the opportunity to work with children, adolescent and adult clients. I see clients via a privacy protected telemedicine-video conferencing platform (Telemedicine) and in person if preferred. I welcome those who are feeling down, anxious, having difficulty focusing or controlling behavior and those who are concerned with alcohol and drug use. If you have longstanding psychiatric concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, attention deficit and addictions, I will conduct a thorough review of medication and hospitalization history and together, we will create a unique plan of care for you.
(218) 228-8910 View (218) 228-8910
Photo of Tracy Zimmerman-DeSchepper ( Modern Mojo), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tracy Zimmerman-DeSchepper ( Modern Mojo)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Fom inception, we set out to design a different kind of mental health clinic than any in the area. Our idea started with this statement "A mental health facility should not be depressing or resemble a sterile hospital-type setting." Our office will be an inviting, colorful, interactive, encouraging, and uplifting place clients want to go to. ​ The difference lies in how we treat our clients. From the nervous initial phone call to the joyful last session, our clients are not a number in our system. As a team, we work together towards better health and wellness for each of our clients. We strive for our patients to be independent
Fom inception, we set out to design a different kind of mental health clinic than any in the area. Our idea started with this statement "A mental health facility should not be depressing or resemble a sterile hospital-type setting." Our office will be an inviting, colorful, interactive, encouraging, and uplifting place clients want to go to. ​ The difference lies in how we treat our clients. From the nervous initial phone call to the joyful last session, our clients are not a number in our system. As a team, we work together towards better health and wellness for each of our clients. We strive for our patients to be independent
(218) 975-0525 View (218) 975-0525
Photo of Jody Murphy, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jody Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MN 55744  (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 Rhea del Rosario, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhea del Rosario
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Do you wake up each day thinking that you wish you lived a different life, a more fulfilling life, but your mental health gets in the way? You have ongoing chronic depression and debilitating anxiety that seems to be getting worse everyday. You feel trapped and you don’t know what to do. You don’t feel loved, you don’t feel safe, you don’t feel secure. Then you resort to self soothing habits that are actually unhealthy, which makes things worse. But what is the root cause of depression and anxiety? Unresolved stress. Unresolved trauma. Unresolved conflicts.
Do you wake up each day thinking that you wish you lived a different life, a more fulfilling life, but your mental health gets in the way? You have ongoing chronic depression and debilitating anxiety that seems to be getting worse everyday. You feel trapped and you don’t know what to do. You don’t feel loved, you don’t feel safe, you don’t feel secure. Then you resort to self soothing habits that are actually unhealthy, which makes things worse. But what is the root cause of depression and anxiety? Unresolved stress. Unresolved trauma. Unresolved conflicts.
(218) 228-0636 View (218) 228-0636
Photo of Karen Webster, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
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

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Allison Sikorsky - At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55802
Schedule online: go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com and click "get started" to see appointment times available. Online telepsychiatry with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This telepsychiatry practice focuses on caring for you from your home or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. With over a decade of psychiatry experience, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar 1 and 2, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, postpartum depression, and various conditions. Telepsychiatry has given people with agoraphobia a way to heal. Stay home, stay well, but still get care.
Schedule online: go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com and click "get started" to see appointment times available. Online telepsychiatry with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This telepsychiatry practice focuses on caring for you from your home or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. With over a decade of psychiatry experience, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar 1 and 2, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, postpartum depression, and various conditions. Telepsychiatry has given people with agoraphobia a way to heal. Stay home, stay well, but still get care.
Photo of Kathy Udovich, MSN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathy Udovich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ely, MN 55731  (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.
(218) 695-8528 View (218) 695-8528
Photo of Naomi Koenig - Selah Wellness Clinic LLC, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, SANE, ART, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Selah Wellness Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, SANE, ART
Verified Verified
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 Mackenzie Snortum - Enlightenment Psychiatry , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Enlightenment Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Park Rapids, MN 56470
The care you will receive will be about maintaining equilibrium between your physical, mental and spiritual self. Bodies and minds go together. If your mental wellness and physical wellness are not in equal states, your life will feel out of balance. This is where we hope to inspire you to be enlightened.
The care you will receive will be about maintaining equilibrium between your physical, mental and spiritual self. Bodies and minds go together. If your mental wellness and physical wellness are not in equal states, your life will feel out of balance. This is where we hope to inspire you to be enlightened.
(218) 587-6166 View (218) 587-6166
Photo of Kari Rengo, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kari Rengo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55810  (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
Dr. Joannah Bluntach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hermantown, MN 55811
Hello to everyone! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in northern Minnesota.I am passionate about helping people and mental health. I strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and provide culturally sensitive, non-non-judgmental, non-judgmental, person-centered care. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you on meeting your goals. I created Compassionate Quality Psychiatry with the goal to provide quality, compassionate, affordable care to the community in Minnesota.
Hello to everyone! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in northern Minnesota.I am passionate about helping people and mental health. I strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and provide culturally sensitive, non-non-judgmental, non-judgmental, person-centered care. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you on meeting your goals. I created Compassionate Quality Psychiatry with the goal to provide quality, compassionate, affordable care to the community in Minnesota.
(218) 304-0839 View (218) 304-0839
Photo of Christina Kirchen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Kirchen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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
Photo of Dr. Tanya Wozniak, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tanya Wozniak
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brainerd, MN 56401  (Online Only)
I have been using telehealth since 2014 to improve access to quality mental health treatment through my company's partnerships with community mental health clinics. I am excited to join Northern Pines Mental Health to offer additional psychiatric services to the community!
I have been using telehealth since 2014 to improve access to quality mental health treatment through my company's partnerships with community mental health clinics. I am excited to join Northern Pines Mental Health to offer additional psychiatric services to the community!
(218) 319-6426 View (218) 319-6426
Photo of Jane Parker - Inner Fokus, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
Inner Fokus
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Verified Verified
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. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55805  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, MN 55802
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
(253) 487-0709 View (253) 487-0709
Photo of Nesrin Abu Ata, MD, Psychiatrist
Nesrin Abu Ata
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, MN 55812
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
(605) 349-2274 View (605) 349-2274
Photo of Katlyn Bowman, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katlyn Bowman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Bemidji, MN 56601  (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. The ideal client is looking to improve mental well-being, manage symptoms, and lead a balanced life. All of this can be achieved through my practice at T-Force Health with guaranteed privacy and anonymity on the clients time.
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. The ideal client is looking to improve mental well-being, manage symptoms, and lead a balanced life. All of this can be achieved through my practice at T-Force Health with guaranteed privacy and anonymity on the clients time.
(605) 937-8105 View (605) 937-8105
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55808
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

See more therapy options for Itasca County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Itasca County, MN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Itasca County, MN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
83% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Humana
80% Medica

How Psychiatrists in Itasca County, MN see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Itasca County?

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.