Psychiatrists in Mora, MN

Photo of Jeremiah Randall - East Central Behavioral Health LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
East Central Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mora, MN 55051  (Online Only)
I am certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which means I am certified to provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan (ages 6 and up). I have been in the metal health field for 20 years, training in a variety of mental health settings including outpatient community mental health, private practice, direct care with children and adolescents, corrections, and both forensic and substance abuse programs. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
I am certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which means I am certified to provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan (ages 6 and up). I have been in the metal health field for 20 years, training in a variety of mental health settings including outpatient community mental health, private practice, direct care with children and adolescents, corrections, and both forensic and substance abuse programs. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
(320) 364-7292 View (320) 364-7292
Photo of Angelica Stoltz, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angelica Stoltz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Mora, MN 55051  (Online Only)
Angelica, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner at Recovering Hope Treatment Center, empowers individuals seeking transformation and growth. With non-judgmental care, she helps clients grappling with mental health, behavioral health, and addiction find balance and reclaim their sense of self. Her dedication and empathy inspire hope, fostering resilience on the path to wellness.
Angelica, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner at Recovering Hope Treatment Center, empowers individuals seeking transformation and growth. With non-judgmental care, she helps clients grappling with mental health, behavioral health, and addiction find balance and reclaim their sense of self. Her dedication and empathy inspire hope, fostering resilience on the path to wellness.
(320) 264-8725 View (320) 264-8725
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
Mora, MN 55051
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dana Kromar, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Kromar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
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
Photo of Sarah Myer, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, CPNP-PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Myer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, CPNP-PC
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
My patients are primarily youth and young adults (and their families). My special interests include: rural communities, young mothers, special needs, PTSD, adoption and foster care, autism, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
My patients are primarily youth and young adults (and their families). My special interests include: rural communities, young mothers, special needs, PTSD, adoption and foster care, autism, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
(651) 333-7927 View (651) 333-7927
Photo of Brittany Kay Crock - Introspect Mental Health, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Introspect Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
I believe mental health is just as important as physical health. If we don't take care of our whole body we are not able to care for others or live our best life.
I believe mental health is just as important as physical health. If we don't take care of our whole body we are not able to care for others or live our best life.
(651) 362-5898 View (651) 362-5898
Photo of Jamie Jones, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cambridge, MN 55008
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 Terri Duncan, MSN, FNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Terri Duncan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
I have been working in healthcare in many different facets for over 25 years. I am eager to work with clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety (feelings of being overwhelmed), social anxiety, mood disorders and so many other mental health problems. I have worked with substance use and drug abuse extensively for over 10 years. Overcoming substance use does not have to be hard, it does not have to be a struggle, I am here to help. Struggling with mental health problems can sometimes be lonely and scary, I am here to listen and offer help and support, you don't have to struggle in silence or alone. I can help.
I have been working in healthcare in many different facets for over 25 years. I am eager to work with clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety (feelings of being overwhelmed), social anxiety, mood disorders and so many other mental health problems. I have worked with substance use and drug abuse extensively for over 10 years. Overcoming substance use does not have to be hard, it does not have to be a struggle, I am here to help. Struggling with mental health problems can sometimes be lonely and scary, I am here to listen and offer help and support, you don't have to struggle in silence or alone. I can help.
(612) 662-7985 View (612) 662-7985
Photo of Dr. Sara Ocker, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Sara Ocker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
Dr. Ocker graduated from the University of Minnesota, School of Nursing receiving her doctorate in nursing practice specializing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as receiving a graduate certificate in Integrative Health and Healing. Sara has extensive experience in crisis intervention working with a diverse population as she originally received a BA in Sociology – Law, Crime, and Deviance with a focus on Psychology working at a large metropolitan adult detention center and then at a large metropolitan 911 center. Sara continued her education and received a BS in Nursing from the College of St. Scholastica.
Dr. Ocker graduated from the University of Minnesota, School of Nursing receiving her doctorate in nursing practice specializing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as receiving a graduate certificate in Integrative Health and Healing. Sara has extensive experience in crisis intervention working with a diverse population as she originally received a BA in Sociology – Law, Crime, and Deviance with a focus on Psychology working at a large metropolitan adult detention center and then at a large metropolitan 911 center. Sara continued her education and received a BS in Nursing from the College of St. Scholastica.
(612) 682-4337 View (612) 682-4337
Photo of Rhett Christensen, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhett Christensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
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 Dr. Beth A. Good, DNP, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse
Dr. Beth A. Good
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
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 Wendi Tvedt, APRN, PMHNP, LADC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wendi Tvedt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LADC
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
Wendi has 30 + years of experience working in the nursing field. She has worked with all ages, currently specializing in ages 6+; and over the last 15 years, she has worked in public health and has both psychiatric and substance use experience. In addition, Wendi also has over 4 years of experience working as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). She graduated from the College of St. Scholastica in 1992 with a BA in Nursing. Wendi furthered her education and received her Chemical Dependency certificate from Fond Du Lac Tribal and Community College in 2017 and holds her license as an alcohol and drug counselor.
Wendi has 30 + years of experience working in the nursing field. She has worked with all ages, currently specializing in ages 6+; and over the last 15 years, she has worked in public health and has both psychiatric and substance use experience. In addition, Wendi also has over 4 years of experience working as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). She graduated from the College of St. Scholastica in 1992 with a BA in Nursing. Wendi furthered her education and received her Chemical Dependency certificate from Fond Du Lac Tribal and Community College in 2017 and holds her license as an alcohol and drug counselor.
(612) 712-8649 View (612) 712-8649

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of John G Luehr, MD, Psychiatrist
John G Luehr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55343
I believe life’s challenges, including emotional wellness challenges, are like a team sport. You are the most important member of your team. But to play your best game, you need other team members for support, insight, coaching, and practice. My main role on the team is that of equipment manager. Your description of the obstacles and difficulties, coupled with my experience and knowledge, allows us as a team to create the best medication strategy for you. Just as the right shoes can help an athlete gain better traction, the right medication can help you engage in the other components of your emotional wellness.
I believe life’s challenges, including emotional wellness challenges, are like a team sport. You are the most important member of your team. But to play your best game, you need other team members for support, insight, coaching, and practice. My main role on the team is that of equipment manager. Your description of the obstacles and difficulties, coupled with my experience and knowledge, allows us as a team to create the best medication strategy for you. Just as the right shoes can help an athlete gain better traction, the right medication can help you engage in the other components of your emotional wellness.
(612) 979-2077 x105 View (612) 979-2077 x105
Photo of Jeremiah Randall, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeremiah Randall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
I welcome the diversity of all people and approach everyone as a priority. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. As your advocate, I strive to enhance your personal wellbeing through honest and transparent communication. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and for what is important to you. To me, you are not just my client, you are a unique and valuable person, who happens to be my client. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
I welcome the diversity of all people and approach everyone as a priority. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. As your advocate, I strive to enhance your personal wellbeing through honest and transparent communication. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and for what is important to you. To me, you are not just my client, you are a unique and valuable person, who happens to be my client. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
(952) 243-5545 View (952) 243-5545
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55425
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
Photo of Linh Castro, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linh Castro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, BSN RN
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
During my time at Allen College, I earned an Advancing Healthcare Transformation Award, as well as a certificate in Caring for Rural and Underserved Population emphasis. During my experience as a registered nurse, I enjoyed working with people of underprivileged and immigrant backgrounds. I am fluent in both English and Vietnamese. Throughout my nursing career, I have worked with patients who have various psychiatric needs at different clinical settings.
During my time at Allen College, I earned an Advancing Healthcare Transformation Award, as well as a certificate in Caring for Rural and Underserved Population emphasis. During my experience as a registered nurse, I enjoyed working with people of underprivileged and immigrant backgrounds. I am fluent in both English and Vietnamese. Throughout my nursing career, I have worked with patients who have various psychiatric needs at different clinical settings.
(651) 661-4284 View (651) 661-4284
Photo of Jacqueline Cooper, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Jackie Cooper is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of experience working in mental health. She's skilled in working with a variety of patient populations across the mental health care continuum and treats adults ages 18 and older. Jackie is passionate about helping people live their best lives and strives to provide care that is meaningful to each individual and fully involves each patient in their care.
Jackie Cooper is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of experience working in mental health. She's skilled in working with a variety of patient populations across the mental health care continuum and treats adults ages 18 and older. Jackie is passionate about helping people live their best lives and strives to provide care that is meaningful to each individual and fully involves each patient in their care.
(612) 482-2521 View (612) 482-2521
Photo of Olivia Grayson, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivia Grayson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
With a passion for mental health and a commitment to patient care, Olivia strives to provide personalized and holistic treatment plans that promote well-being and recovery. She is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients and is driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to high-quality mental health care.
With a passion for mental health and a commitment to patient care, Olivia strives to provide personalized and holistic treatment plans that promote well-being and recovery. She is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients and is driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to high-quality mental health care.
(952) 592-3755 View (952) 592-3755
Photo of Chinwe Eke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinwe Eke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Minnesota. I received my Masters from Liberty University, Virginia, and have been practicing for 2 years. I help young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, career stress, and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
Hi! I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Minnesota. I received my Masters from Liberty University, Virginia, and have been practicing for 2 years. I help young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, career stress, and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
(763) 888-8931 View (763) 888-8931
Photo of Abdirizak Nuno, MD, Psychiatrist
Abdirizak Nuno
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55437
In my practice, we are currently accepting NEW patients for medication management, therapy, chemical dependency treatment including suboxone. We also provide esketamine/spravato. My interests are varied and include a wide spectrum of disorders, such as major depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, ADHD and PTSD. I explore the biological, psychological and social components of mental illness and utilize tools and interventions to evaluate and treat my patients, including diagnostic laboratory tests, prescribed medications and coping strategies. We accept most insurances and private pay.
In my practice, we are currently accepting NEW patients for medication management, therapy, chemical dependency treatment including suboxone. We also provide esketamine/spravato. My interests are varied and include a wide spectrum of disorders, such as major depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, ADHD and PTSD. I explore the biological, psychological and social components of mental illness and utilize tools and interventions to evaluate and treat my patients, including diagnostic laboratory tests, prescribed medications and coping strategies. We accept most insurances and private pay.
(952) 230-3944 View (952) 230-3944

See more therapy options for Mora

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Mora, MN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Mora, MN who prioritize treating:

67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Child
67% ADHD
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Behavioral Issues

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UCare
100% HealthPartners of MN and WI

How Psychiatrists in Mora, MN see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Mora?

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.