Psychiatrists in Lino Lakes, MN

Photo of Dana Kromar, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Kromar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lino Lakes, MN 55014
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating children and adolescents age 6-18 with mental health concerns.
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating children and adolescents age 6-18 with mental health concerns.
(763) 465-6700 View (763) 465-6700

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Mark L Willenbring, MD, DLFAPA, Psychiatrist
Mark L Willenbring
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA
Verified Verified
Spring Lake Park, MN 55432
You are looking for a psychiatrist who actually listens to you, and responds to your needs. You are looking for clear answers to your questions, delivered in a compassionate way. Naturally, you are also looking for expert psychopharmacology as well as psychotherapy. You can find all of that and more in my office. I have over 50 years practice as a psychiatrist, in many different settings. I can offer you brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology or extended treatment.
You are looking for a psychiatrist who actually listens to you, and responds to your needs. You are looking for clear answers to your questions, delivered in a compassionate way. Naturally, you are also looking for expert psychopharmacology as well as psychotherapy. You can find all of that and more in my office. I have over 50 years practice as a psychiatrist, in many different settings. I can offer you brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology or extended treatment.
(651) 560-8355 View (651) 560-8355
Photo of Princess Gehyigon-Wallace, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Princess Gehyigon-Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fridley, MN 55432
Have you experienced some kind of trauma or emotional challenge, or perhaps have been struggling with a mental health issue for some time? Are you open to exploring your feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment, and be willing to work hard to create positive change? Do you have a desire to learn how to manage your emotions and create healthier relationships with yourself and others? Martha’s Open Hands can help you, your child, or loved one by creating an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based practice that is safe and effective.
Have you experienced some kind of trauma or emotional challenge, or perhaps have been struggling with a mental health issue for some time? Are you open to exploring your feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment, and be willing to work hard to create positive change? Do you have a desire to learn how to manage your emotions and create healthier relationships with yourself and others? Martha’s Open Hands can help you, your child, or loved one by creating an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based practice that is safe and effective.
(612) 482-0679 View (612) 482-0679
Photo of Melodie Kabanuk Dohm - Wisdom Psychiatric Care & Medication Management, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wisdom Psychiatric Care & Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mounds View, MN 55112  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Boutique Mental Healthcare: Setting itself apart from large health systems, our boutique approach to mental healthcare ensures that we can deliver high-quality care that is tailored to your unique needs; we make the time to listen and to truly hear what your needs, healing goals, and preferences are. We take pride in delivering an exceptional level of customer service, medical expertise, and commitment to health and wellness for all our patients. Wisdom-Clinic is SHARE certified by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, because we believe in shared decision-making when it comes to care for our clients.
Boutique Mental Healthcare: Setting itself apart from large health systems, our boutique approach to mental healthcare ensures that we can deliver high-quality care that is tailored to your unique needs; we make the time to listen and to truly hear what your needs, healing goals, and preferences are. We take pride in delivering an exceptional level of customer service, medical expertise, and commitment to health and wellness for all our patients. Wisdom-Clinic is SHARE certified by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, because we believe in shared decision-making when it comes to care for our clients.
(651) 412-3726 View (651) 412-3726
Photo of Faith Siteiyia Sapit - Faith Mental Health and Wellness Services LLC, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Faith Mental Health and Wellness Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Andover, MN 55304  (Online Only)
Faith Sapit, PMHNP-BC is a Master prepared, nationally certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in New Mexico, Texas, Arizona and Minnesota. She has served the nursing field with an emphasis in both Adults and pediatric mental health care for the last 2 Years as a nurse practitioner and 10+ years as a Nurse in general.
Faith Sapit, PMHNP-BC is a Master prepared, nationally certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in New Mexico, Texas, Arizona and Minnesota. She has served the nursing field with an emphasis in both Adults and pediatric mental health care for the last 2 Years as a nurse practitioner and 10+ years as a Nurse in general.
(505) 587-5640 View (505) 587-5640
Photo of Deborah Troy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Troy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anoka, MN 55304  (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 Suzanne Lee, DNP, PMHCNS, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse
Suzanne Lee
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHCNS, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Blaine, MN 55434
I have expertise in addiction, trauma, emotional and physiological pain, and a range of psychiatric illnesses; I particularly appreciate the need to treat clients holistically, taking into account co-morbid issues, when such are present. I believe in a partnership with clients to enhance strengths and address, when possible, harmful behaviors, beliefs and relationships. I diagnose, prescribe and offer therapy for psychiatric and psychological problems for individuals, couples and families.
I have expertise in addiction, trauma, emotional and physiological pain, and a range of psychiatric illnesses; I particularly appreciate the need to treat clients holistically, taking into account co-morbid issues, when such are present. I believe in a partnership with clients to enhance strengths and address, when possible, harmful behaviors, beliefs and relationships. I diagnose, prescribe and offer therapy for psychiatric and psychological problems for individuals, couples and families.
(763) 280-5231 View (763) 280-5231
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
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
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.
(603) 207-3133 View (603) 207-3133
Photo of Jamie Jones, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coon Rapids, MN 55448
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 Irene Ottoson, DNP,  , APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Irene Ottoson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
I am currently accepting new clients. I provide the kind of psychiatric care that I would love extended to me and my family. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management and work alongside each patient to instill hope, providing them the tools they need to succeed, build their confidence, and get them to looking forward to a brighter tomorrow.
I am currently accepting new clients. I provide the kind of psychiatric care that I would love extended to me and my family. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management and work alongside each patient to instill hope, providing them the tools they need to succeed, build their confidence, and get them to looking forward to a brighter tomorrow.
(763) 275-9304 View (763) 275-9304
Photo of Temitope Abiola Dawodu, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Temitope Abiola Dawodu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shoreview, MN 55126
Our ideal client is any one seeking answers about their mental or emotional health. We can help create a treatment plan together to help you achieve your personal goals.
Our ideal client is any one seeking answers about their mental or emotional health. We can help create a treatment plan together to help you achieve your personal goals.
(651) 615-9465 View (651) 615-9465
Photo of Chinwe Eke, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinwe Eke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Centerville, MN 55038
Chinwe Eke is a Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2022. Chinwe offers her clients the ability to provide accurate, effective, and quality care, managing varieties of mental health and emotional challenges affecting individuals and families, plus medication management. Outside of work, Chinwe enjoys reading, music, and sports.
Chinwe Eke is a Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2022. Chinwe offers her clients the ability to provide accurate, effective, and quality care, managing varieties of mental health and emotional challenges affecting individuals and families, plus medication management. Outside of work, Chinwe enjoys reading, music, and sports.
(651) 243-9780 View (651) 243-9780
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 Dr. Beth A. Good, DNP, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse
Dr. Beth A. Good
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Blaine, MN 55449
Utilizing a philosophy of care that is wholistic...treating the body, mind & spirit with a positive, dynamic, recovery-focused approach to health and well-being, I would be honored to help you on your journey. Providing an atmosphere of warmth, positive regard, and mutual respect, I enjoy discussing with patients their health and life goals, focusing on one's strengths and resilience to work through current difficulties & chart a positive course going forward. With my vast experience, I utilize evidence-based medications and approaches to treat psychiatric/mental health disorders & stay up to date on cutting edge therapies.
Utilizing a philosophy of care that is wholistic...treating the body, mind & spirit with a positive, dynamic, recovery-focused approach to health and well-being, I would be honored to help you on your journey. Providing an atmosphere of warmth, positive regard, and mutual respect, I enjoy discussing with patients their health and life goals, focusing on one's strengths and resilience to work through current difficulties & chart a positive course going forward. With my vast experience, I utilize evidence-based medications and approaches to treat psychiatric/mental health disorders & stay up to date on cutting edge therapies.
(763) 225-2171 View (763) 225-2171
Photo of Rhett Christensen, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhett Christensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Blaine, MN 55014
My practice philosophy is to prevent and reduce suffering as much as possible by partnering with clients to reach their fullest potential through the holistic lens of mind, body, and spirit. Wellness is a journey that we can practice and walk each day. I come from a family with strong military service history, and while I wasn't privileged to be able to serve in the military, I have a particular interest in helping veterans, those who serve, and their loved ones.
My practice philosophy is to prevent and reduce suffering as much as possible by partnering with clients to reach their fullest potential through the holistic lens of mind, body, and spirit. Wellness is a journey that we can practice and walk each day. I come from a family with strong military service history, and while I wasn't privileged to be able to serve in the military, I have a particular interest in helping veterans, those who serve, and their loved ones.
(763) 373-5619 View (763) 373-5619
Photo of Jhaurel Johnson White, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jhaurel Johnson White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Andover, MN 55304  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
(507) 443-3499 View (507) 443-3499
Photo of Joy Cloutier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joy Cloutier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Andover, MN 55304
I practice with a prevention mindset and a focus on holistic care. My goal is to develop relationships, empower clients to make their best health decisions, and focus on functioning. Everyone deserves to receive non-judgmental mental health care that considers all components of your life. I look forward to partnering with people to help them achieve their highest level of wellness.
I practice with a prevention mindset and a focus on holistic care. My goal is to develop relationships, empower clients to make their best health decisions, and focus on functioning. Everyone deserves to receive non-judgmental mental health care that considers all components of your life. I look forward to partnering with people to help them achieve their highest level of wellness.
(763) 363-8024 View (763) 363-8024
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Andover, MN 55304  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(651) 565-6849 View (651) 565-6849
Photo of Brenda Simasiku Russ, APRN, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Simasiku Russ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fridley, MN 55432
My goal as a provider is to provide holistic care by understanding individual culture, and spiritual, social, and personal values that make us who we are. My treatment strategy includes utilizing evidence-based practice, collaboration, and creating an individualized plan that is unique to your needs and goals. The journey to seek mental health treatment takes courage. Patient inclusiveness in the treatment plan to ensure individuals matter on their journey to mental well-being is important in my treatment plan
My goal as a provider is to provide holistic care by understanding individual culture, and spiritual, social, and personal values that make us who we are. My treatment strategy includes utilizing evidence-based practice, collaboration, and creating an individualized plan that is unique to your needs and goals. The journey to seek mental health treatment takes courage. Patient inclusiveness in the treatment plan to ensure individuals matter on their journey to mental well-being is important in my treatment plan
(612) 439-3029 View (612) 439-3029
Photo of Dr. Sara Ocker, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Sara Ocker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Blaine, MN 55434
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

See more therapy options for Lino Lakes

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lino Lakes, MN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Lino Lakes, MN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Anger Management

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medica
100% Medicaid

How Psychiatrists in Lino Lakes, MN see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lino Lakes?

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.