Psychiatrists in Plymouth, MN

Photo of Dr. Heidi Arnold, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Heidi Arnold
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55442
I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and young adults facing mental health challenges. I believe that understanding the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of both my patients and their families is essential for effective mental healthcare. I value collaboration with multi-disciplinary treatment team.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and young adults facing mental health challenges. I believe that understanding the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of both my patients and their families is essential for effective mental healthcare. I value collaboration with multi-disciplinary treatment team.
(651) 432-6305 View (651) 432-6305
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
Plymouth, MN 55442
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.
(623) 526-5557 View (623) 526-5557
Photo of John E. Harrison, PMHNP, CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John E. Harrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MN 55446
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•
(763) 247-4510 View (763) 247-4510
Photo of Haley Carlock, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Haley Carlock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
(763) 294-7972 View (763) 294-7972
Photo of John Harrison - YourTime Psychiatry & Medical Cannabis, PMHNP, CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
YourTime Psychiatry & Medical Cannabis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55446
At YourTime Psychiatry & Medical Cannabis, we believe it’s ‘your time’ to feel better. We are dedicated to assisting adults, teenagers, and children with using psychiatric medication and medical cannabis to improve mental health.
At YourTime Psychiatry & Medical Cannabis, we believe it’s ‘your time’ to feel better. We are dedicated to assisting adults, teenagers, and children with using psychiatric medication and medical cannabis to improve mental health.
(763) 343-5759 View (763) 343-5759
Photo of Jackline Moriasi, MS, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jackline Moriasi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55447
Jackline Moriasi, PMHNP, is an Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, dedicated to serving patients across Minnesota. She offers comprehensive mental health services, including assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and referral to appropriate resources. Jackline s approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring compassionate and effective care for adults and seniors. Jackline is passionate about treating a variety of mental health conditions, with a focus on anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
Jackline Moriasi, PMHNP, is an Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, dedicated to serving patients across Minnesota. She offers comprehensive mental health services, including assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and referral to appropriate resources. Jackline s approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring compassionate and effective care for adults and seniors. Jackline is passionate about treating a variety of mental health conditions, with a focus on anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
(763) 296-1233 View (763) 296-1233
Photo of Gerard Balan, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gerard Balan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MN 55442
As a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatry, I believe in providing each patient with holistic, comprehensive care that is effective, efficient, and compassionate. I also believe in a team approach where I collaborate with the patient and other providers to determine a plan that will bring lasting wellness. I am board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and have a special interest and expertise in treating major depression, anxiety, ADHD, and narcotic addiction.
As a nurse practitioner certified in Psychiatry, I believe in providing each patient with holistic, comprehensive care that is effective, efficient, and compassionate. I also believe in a team approach where I collaborate with the patient and other providers to determine a plan that will bring lasting wellness. I am board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and have a special interest and expertise in treating major depression, anxiety, ADHD, and narcotic addiction.
(763) 310-3384 View (763) 310-3384
Photo of Israel Sokeye - Plymouth Psych Group, Psychiatrist
Plymouth Psych Group
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MN 55442
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
(763) 225-2551 View (763) 225-2551
Photo of Kayla Kvell, DNP, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayla Kvell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Kayla Kvell is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations, hormone therapy, and medication management for adults. Her areas of special interest include ADHD; bipolar disorder and mood issues; postpartum depression, peri & postmenopausal symptoms; and metabolic/hormonal dysfunction and its impact on mental health. She uses an integrative approach to address and identify underlying causes of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Kayla Kvell is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations, hormone therapy, and medication management for adults. Her areas of special interest include ADHD; bipolar disorder and mood issues; postpartum depression, peri & postmenopausal symptoms; and metabolic/hormonal dysfunction and its impact on mental health. She uses an integrative approach to address and identify underlying causes of psychiatric conditions.
(651) 419-3554 View (651) 419-3554
Photo of Laurel Edinburgh, MSN, CPNP, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laurel Edinburgh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CPNP, PMHS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I treat children, adolescents, and young adults with ADHD, Depression and Anxiety. I have a subspecialty interest in adolescent health and am an expert on how families can foster resiliency for their children and adolescents. I use a collaborative approach in my practice. I enjoy working closely with parents to help them support their child's recovery.
I treat children, adolescents, and young adults with ADHD, Depression and Anxiety. I have a subspecialty interest in adolescent health and am an expert on how families can foster resiliency for their children and adolescents. I use a collaborative approach in my practice. I enjoy working closely with parents to help them support their child's recovery.
(763) 307-6980 View (763) 307-6980
Photo of Michael O'Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael O'Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At Innovative Psychological Consultants we know there are always ways to feel better. People can't control their genetics and body chemistry on their own. Issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and others all have a basis in physiology and brain chemistry. With the right diagnosis, we can find the right tools to bring your chemistry into alignment and give you the relief you are seeking. Mental health issues are not a personal weakness and nothing to be ashamed of; or suffer with. Let's work together to find a solution.
At Innovative Psychological Consultants we know there are always ways to feel better. People can't control their genetics and body chemistry on their own. Issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and others all have a basis in physiology and brain chemistry. With the right diagnosis, we can find the right tools to bring your chemistry into alignment and give you the relief you are seeking. Mental health issues are not a personal weakness and nothing to be ashamed of; or suffer with. Let's work together to find a solution.
(763) 284-5631 View (763) 284-5631
Photo of Jeanne Bailey, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeanne Bailey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At Innovative Psychological Consultants, we know that taking the first step is always the hardest. When we have been struggling for some time, it can be hard to imagine that anything can help. Finding relief is very possible if you are willing to reach for it. We are here to help you and want to see you be successful and feeling better. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, panic attacks, and much more are all effectively treated with medication management.
At Innovative Psychological Consultants, we know that taking the first step is always the hardest. When we have been struggling for some time, it can be hard to imagine that anything can help. Finding relief is very possible if you are willing to reach for it. We are here to help you and want to see you be successful and feeling better. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, panic attacks, and much more are all effectively treated with medication management.
(763) 324-9287 View (763) 324-9287
Photo of Daniel Moegi, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel Moegi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Every person is unique and so is their chemistry. Finding the right medication or combination requires experience and expertise. A vast knowledge of the different medications used to treat mental health issues is vital to appropriate treatment success. Once we diagnosis exactly what is going on, we move on to the most effective treatment options until symptom relief is achieved.
Every person is unique and so is their chemistry. Finding the right medication or combination requires experience and expertise. A vast knowledge of the different medications used to treat mental health issues is vital to appropriate treatment success. Once we diagnosis exactly what is going on, we move on to the most effective treatment options until symptom relief is achieved.
(763) 343-8554 View (763) 343-8554
Photo of Amy Tornio, MSN, CNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Tornio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Looking for a clinician who is warm, funny (ok, hilarious), experienced, & will be completely real with you? Considering psychiatric medication for the first time? Have complex physical and mental health symptoms that require specialty expertise? Oh, and did you forget to mention that you also want someone who takes your insurance plan and can quickly get you in for a first appointment? Well... today is your lucky day! I'm Amy, and I'm so glad our paths are crossing right now. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders, I think I may be able to help.
Looking for a clinician who is warm, funny (ok, hilarious), experienced, & will be completely real with you? Considering psychiatric medication for the first time? Have complex physical and mental health symptoms that require specialty expertise? Oh, and did you forget to mention that you also want someone who takes your insurance plan and can quickly get you in for a first appointment? Well... today is your lucky day! I'm Amy, and I'm so glad our paths are crossing right now. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders, I think I may be able to help.
(952) 260-4030 View (952) 260-4030
Photo of Brooke Resch, MD, Psychiatrist
Brooke Resch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I approach every person as a unique individual with different origins and history in the development of their mental health. Likewise, each person’s path to recovery is uniquely tailored to what will work best for them. We will work together to uncover the best treatment so you can function optimally.
I approach every person as a unique individual with different origins and history in the development of their mental health. Likewise, each person’s path to recovery is uniquely tailored to what will work best for them. We will work together to uncover the best treatment so you can function optimally.
(763) 878-7116 View (763) 878-7116
Photo of Scott Schmaedeke, MS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Scott Schmaedeke
Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a certified and licensed Psychiatric Physician Assistant. Every day I get to help people. Whether it is a mood disorder or medication assisted treatment for addiction using Suboxone, helping people feel better about themselves and their lives is what it's all about.
I am a certified and licensed Psychiatric Physician Assistant. Every day I get to help people. Whether it is a mood disorder or medication assisted treatment for addiction using Suboxone, helping people feel better about themselves and their lives is what it's all about.
(952) 260-5072 View (952) 260-5072

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Agnes Limunga Jackai, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Agnes Limunga Jackai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Now accepting new clients within 48 hours with no waiting list. Seeking mental health wellness will empower your day-to-day life, healthy behaviors, self-management, and well-being. Start the Healing process. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 11 + years of inpatient and outpatient nursing experience in various healthcare settings. I earned my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. I'm specialized in Psych Med Management, evaluation, Prescription / Refill, Med Review, and Follow-up for individuals across the lifespan. I works with adults, adolescents, and children 8 +.
Now accepting new clients within 48 hours with no waiting list. Seeking mental health wellness will empower your day-to-day life, healthy behaviors, self-management, and well-being. Start the Healing process. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 11 + years of inpatient and outpatient nursing experience in various healthcare settings. I earned my Master of Science in PMHNP from Walden University. I'm specialized in Psych Med Management, evaluation, Prescription / Refill, Med Review, and Follow-up for individuals across the lifespan. I works with adults, adolescents, and children 8 +.
(651) 390-1495 View (651) 390-1495
Photo of Gerard Balan - Telemental Associates, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Telemental Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Are you feeling the weight of a demanding career, the academic demands of school, or the general stresses of everyday life? If you or your loved ones, aged 12 and up, are navigating the challenges of ADHD, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to extend a helping hand. My name is Gerard Balan, a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner who understands you need mental health support that adapts to your lifestyle. With our services, you'll find discrete, effective care without having to step away from your work, school, or personal commitments.
Are you feeling the weight of a demanding career, the academic demands of school, or the general stresses of everyday life? If you or your loved ones, aged 12 and up, are navigating the challenges of ADHD, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to extend a helping hand. My name is Gerard Balan, a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner who understands you need mental health support that adapts to your lifestyle. With our services, you'll find discrete, effective care without having to step away from your work, school, or personal commitments.
(612) 314-8967 View (612) 314-8967
Photo of Jennifer Twing, MD, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Twing
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55437
Dr Jennifer Twing is a board-certified physician in Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her undergraduate studies in Neuroscience and Behavior at Vassar College in New York, medical education at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland and Psychiatry Residency at the University of North Dakota in Fargo, ND. She has experience working in a variety of settings treating psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. She is also currently training to be certified in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
Dr Jennifer Twing is a board-certified physician in Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her undergraduate studies in Neuroscience and Behavior at Vassar College in New York, medical education at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland and Psychiatry Residency at the University of North Dakota in Fargo, ND. She has experience working in a variety of settings treating psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. She is also currently training to be certified in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
(952) 395-6923 View (952) 395-6923
Photo of Esther Mugomba-Bird - Thrive Behavioral Health Services LLC, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Thrive Behavioral Health Services is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner led clinic focused on treating various Psychiatric conditions to include Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Various types of Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorders as well as Binge Eating Disorders.
Thrive Behavioral Health Services is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner led clinic focused on treating various Psychiatric conditions to include Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Various types of Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorders as well as Binge Eating Disorders.
(813) 993-0315 View (813) 993-0315

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Plymouth, MN

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Plymouth, MN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
94% Anxiety
94% ADHD
94% Bipolar Disorder
88% Trauma and PTSD
88% Medication Management
63% Addiction

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Hennepin Health
92% UCare

How Psychiatrists in Plymouth, MN see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Plymouth?

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.