Psychiatrists in Mendota Heights, MN

Tsering Dolma is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2023. Tsering has had many life experiences that have taught her to have great empathy and compassion for the many different individuals in need of mental health care. She understands a mental health diagnosis is not just a single component, rather there is a vast array of experiences and traumas that come to play. Tsering has a passion for educating and assisting clients finding the best medications, therapies, and support to live their best life.
Tsering Dolma is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2023. Tsering has had many life experiences that have taught her to have great empathy and compassion for the many different individuals in need of mental health care. She understands a mental health diagnosis is not just a single component, rather there is a vast array of experiences and traumas that come to play. Tsering has a passion for educating and assisting clients finding the best medications, therapies, and support to live their best life.

Jacob Robinson is a Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2019. Jacob believes in a holistic and collaborative approach to mental health care. He specializes in ADHD (AttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), depression, anxiety disorders, and insomnia. He works closely with his clients to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate psychotherapy, medication management, lifestyle modifications, and complementary therapies as appropriate. Jacob emphasizes patient education and empowerment, striving to create a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel heard and respected.
Jacob Robinson is a Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2019. Jacob believes in a holistic and collaborative approach to mental health care. He specializes in ADHD (AttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), depression, anxiety disorders, and insomnia. He works closely with his clients to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate psychotherapy, medication management, lifestyle modifications, and complementary therapies as appropriate. Jacob emphasizes patient education and empowerment, striving to create a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel heard and respected.

Hanan Health LLC seeks to help individuals struggling with mental health symptoms alleviate their concerns by assessing, diagnosing and finding the right treatment for their individual conditions. Specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other mental health concerns.
Hanan Health LLC seeks to help individuals struggling with mental health symptoms alleviate their concerns by assessing, diagnosing and finding the right treatment for their individual conditions. Specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other mental health concerns.

We Care Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 26 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 26 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
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.

Kelsey Helgeson MSN, APRN is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who offers medication management and psychotherapy to patients for all mental health diagnoses and ages. After witnessing the profound impact mental health issues had on her family, peers, and community, Kelsey pursued a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She developed a profound empathy and a strong desire to assist others in overcoming their mental health challenges. Furthermore, witnessing individuals battle with the challenge of obtaining sufficient mental health treatment served as an incentive for her to pursue a profession
Kelsey Helgeson MSN, APRN is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who offers medication management and psychotherapy to patients for all mental health diagnoses and ages. After witnessing the profound impact mental health issues had on her family, peers, and community, Kelsey pursued a career as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She developed a profound empathy and a strong desire to assist others in overcoming their mental health challenges. Furthermore, witnessing individuals battle with the challenge of obtaining sufficient mental health treatment served as an incentive for her to pursue a profession

Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Often, the struggle of feeling alone in a thought pattern cycle leads to isolation, hopelessness, loneliness, worry, and sometimes, addiction. Relationships, work performance, values, and goals suffer as a result of unaddressed negative patterns. The treatment for most mental illnesses is seeking effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right, safe, psychotropic medication plus therapy will help improve your symptoms.
Often, the struggle of feeling alone in a thought pattern cycle leads to isolation, hopelessness, loneliness, worry, and sometimes, addiction. Relationships, work performance, values, and goals suffer as a result of unaddressed negative patterns. The treatment for most mental illnesses is seeking effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right, safe, psychotropic medication plus therapy will help improve your symptoms.

Nexus Of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
We have multiple providers available ONLINE and IN-OFFICE! Offering TMS and ADHD services in addition to other alternative therapies! New evaluation appointments are currently available within 7 days or less. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience and fields with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
We have multiple providers available ONLINE and IN-OFFICE! Offering TMS and ADHD services in addition to other alternative therapies! New evaluation appointments are currently available within 7 days or less. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience and fields with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.

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.

My name is Funsho King (Foon-sha), and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on treating mental health disorders. My goal as a provider is to provide the care that patients deserve. I am a good listener, compassionate, genuine, and empathetic. I like to meet patients where they are, anticipate their needs, and meet those needs so that they can function optimally. I treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, etc. throughout the lifespan.
My name is Funsho King (Foon-sha), and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on treating mental health disorders. My goal as a provider is to provide the care that patients deserve. I am a good listener, compassionate, genuine, and empathetic. I like to meet patients where they are, anticipate their needs, and meet those needs so that they can function optimally. I treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, etc. throughout the lifespan.

Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, know that you're not alone. I'm here to provide guidance, support, and encouragement every step of the way. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations, medication management and limited psychotherapy. Together, we will explore effective ways and techniques to help you overcome these challenges and achieve a happier, more fulfilling life.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, know that you're not alone. I'm here to provide guidance, support, and encouragement every step of the way. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations, medication management and limited psychotherapy. Together, we will explore effective ways and techniques to help you overcome these challenges and achieve a happier, more fulfilling life.

Stop scrolling and start getting better. I can see you within a week over the phone or video and provide you with excellent evaluation with customized treatment recommendations to improve your health. All the quality of care with convenient video or telephone care. No medication restrictions(FL). I want to partner with you so that you may live the life you want. My approach is detailed assessment and treatment planning with Psychiatric medication and brief psychotherapy/motivational interviewing. The goal would be to save you time and money with stability. Ideally once stable we could meet once a year if possible.
Stop scrolling and start getting better. I can see you within a week over the phone or video and provide you with excellent evaluation with customized treatment recommendations to improve your health. All the quality of care with convenient video or telephone care. No medication restrictions(FL). I want to partner with you so that you may live the life you want. My approach is detailed assessment and treatment planning with Psychiatric medication and brief psychotherapy/motivational interviewing. The goal would be to save you time and money with stability. Ideally once stable we could meet once a year if possible.

If you’re feeling down, feeling anxious, struggling to find joy in daily life, or experiencing irritability and mood swings that impact your work and relationships, I’m here to help. Many people face stress, burnout, and a sense of unfulfillment at work, school, or home, often feeling constantly on edge. My goal is to help you find clarity and balance, promote your well-being, and regain a sense of control so you can lead a more joyful life.
If you’re feeling down, feeling anxious, struggling to find joy in daily life, or experiencing irritability and mood swings that impact your work and relationships, I’m here to help. Many people face stress, burnout, and a sense of unfulfillment at work, school, or home, often feeling constantly on edge. My goal is to help you find clarity and balance, promote your well-being, and regain a sense of control so you can lead a more joyful life.

Are you looking for more out of your psychiatric/mental health care? As a membership only practice, I am able to offer services typically not covered by insurance and will be more able to focus on you, not what brings in the highest insurance reimbursement. You deserve better and I am offering better.
Are you looking for more out of your psychiatric/mental health care? As a membership only practice, I am able to offer services typically not covered by insurance and will be more able to focus on you, not what brings in the highest insurance reimbursement. You deserve better and I am offering better.

Welcome! My name is Melissa Buss, I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I possess the skills and expertise to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders. With over a decade of expertise, I have served as an outpatient clinician in Minnesota addressing the mental health needs of individuals in rural settings.
Welcome! My name is Melissa Buss, I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I possess the skills and expertise to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders. With over a decade of expertise, I have served as an outpatient clinician in Minnesota addressing the mental health needs of individuals in rural settings.

Hi, I am Felicia Ikebude, a psychiatric and Mental health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP) practicing Telehealth in Minnesota. I see patients six years of age and older mostly for the medication management of their psychiatric illnesses. I worked as a registered nurse for more than 15 years and as a family nurse practitioner since 2014 before getting my psychiatric and mental health nurse certification. My life and professional experiences have given me the needed tools to care for all my patients with compassion and dignity.
Hi, I am Felicia Ikebude, a psychiatric and Mental health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP) practicing Telehealth in Minnesota. I see patients six years of age and older mostly for the medication management of their psychiatric illnesses. I worked as a registered nurse for more than 15 years and as a family nurse practitioner since 2014 before getting my psychiatric and mental health nurse certification. My life and professional experiences have given me the needed tools to care for all my patients with compassion and dignity.

Dr. Kali Saulsbury (she/her) a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner works with children, adolescents, young adults, and women(<40) to address mental health concerns. Special interest in reproductive & perinatal psychiatry, PCOS care informed.
Dr. Kali Saulsbury (she/her) a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner works with children, adolescents, young adults, and women(<40) to address mental health concerns. Special interest in reproductive & perinatal psychiatry, PCOS care informed.

Hello, I am Alaba Kehinde "Kenny", I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a nonjudgmental provider who believes in an evidence-based approach to treatment. I have been helping adults (18 to 65+) with wide range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, PTSD, Sleep Disorder/Insomnia, ADHD, Postpartum Mental health conditions, etc. I am warm, approachable and an active listener.
Hello, I am Alaba Kehinde "Kenny", I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a nonjudgmental provider who believes in an evidence-based approach to treatment. I have been helping adults (18 to 65+) with wide range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, PTSD, Sleep Disorder/Insomnia, ADHD, Postpartum Mental health conditions, etc. I am warm, approachable and an active listener.

My name is Patrick Schoenecker, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Minneapolis, MN and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults 18 and up and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, substance abuse, and trauma. My approach to medication management varies based on the needs of each client I work with. While medications are often helpful, they are not the only treatment option. Educating clients regarding available treatment options including interventional psychiatry is an essential part of my practice.
My name is Patrick Schoenecker, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Minneapolis, MN and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults 18 and up and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, substance abuse, and trauma. My approach to medication management varies based on the needs of each client I work with. While medications are often helpful, they are not the only treatment option. Educating clients regarding available treatment options including interventional psychiatry is an essential part of my practice.

Cassidy Furey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a special interest in pediatric medication management, neurodevelopmental and genetic disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and co-occuring intellectual disabilities. I regularly use genetic testing (Genesight) to develope a medication treatment plan that is truly tailored to each person and the goals they envision achieving. Consultation only appointments available if you have a psychiatrist you love but would like a second opinion.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a special interest in pediatric medication management, neurodevelopmental and genetic disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and co-occuring intellectual disabilities. I regularly use genetic testing (Genesight) to develope a medication treatment plan that is truly tailored to each person and the goals they envision achieving. Consultation only appointments available if you have a psychiatrist you love but would like a second opinion.
See more therapy options for Mendota Heights
Nearby Searches for Mendota Heights
- Apple Valley
- Bloomington
- Burnsville
- Cottage Grove
- Eagan
- Edina
- Golden Valley
- Maplewood
- Minneapolis
- Saint Louis Park
- Saint Paul
- Woodbury
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mendota Heights, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Mendota Heights, MN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | Psychosis |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Veterans |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Mendota Heights, MN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mendota Heights?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.