Psychiatrists in Rosemount, MN

Photo of Dr. Kristin Hanson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Dr. Kristin Hanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Rosemount, MN 55068
Dr. Hanson offers psychiatric medication management to clients of all ages. Treatment plans are individualized to meet clients’ needs and can include medication, supplements, referrals to specific therapies, and lifestyle modification.
Dr. Hanson offers psychiatric medication management to clients of all ages. Treatment plans are individualized to meet clients’ needs and can include medication, supplements, referrals to specific therapies, and lifestyle modification.
(651) 505-8449 View (651) 505-8449
Photo of Timothy Etonde, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Timothy Etonde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome—I’m glad you’re here. I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Many of my clients are used to holding everything together on the outside while feeling increasingly overwhelmed within. In our work, you’ll find a safe, supportive space to slow down, unpack what’s been weighing on you, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll work toward balance, confidence, and emotional clarity—so life feels calmer, more authentic, and aligned with who you truly are.
Welcome—I’m glad you’re here. I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Many of my clients are used to holding everything together on the outside while feeling increasingly overwhelmed within. In our work, you’ll find a safe, supportive space to slow down, unpack what’s been weighing on you, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll work toward balance, confidence, and emotional clarity—so life feels calmer, more authentic, and aligned with who you truly are.
(651) 381-1522 View (651) 381-1522
Photo of Rebekah Timm Barnhart - Mountain & Valley Sojourning , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC BC
Mountain & Valley Sojourning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC BC
Online Only
Life is hard. There are days and moments when we all could use someone to sojourn alongside us through the mountains and valleys that come our way. Someone to remind us that we are not alone, we are in this together and together we can make progress. Progress towards the greater good, progress towards your individual goals, progress in your own health and well-being. I believe that you can gain power over the valleys and develop handles to help you find purpose, hope, and healing. It is my privilege and passion to walk beside you and I find great hope and joy in your personal success! Let’s make it happen.
Life is hard. There are days and moments when we all could use someone to sojourn alongside us through the mountains and valleys that come our way. Someone to remind us that we are not alone, we are in this together and together we can make progress. Progress towards the greater good, progress towards your individual goals, progress in your own health and well-being. I believe that you can gain power over the valleys and develop handles to help you find purpose, hope, and healing. It is my privilege and passion to walk beside you and I find great hope and joy in your personal success! Let’s make it happen.
(507) 533-3136 View (507) 533-3136

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Anna Ludowese, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Anna Ludowese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Chaska, MN 55318
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing evidence-based psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults ages 6 and up. I offer comprehensive evaluations and medication management using a whole-person approach that considers symptoms alongside sleep, nutrition, stress, relationships, and daily functioning. Treatment is collaborative, individualized, and thoughtfully paced, with medication used conservatively as one supportive tool. My goal is to help patients feel informed, supported, and more stable over time.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing evidence-based psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults ages 6 and up. I offer comprehensive evaluations and medication management using a whole-person approach that considers symptoms alongside sleep, nutrition, stress, relationships, and daily functioning. Treatment is collaborative, individualized, and thoughtfully paced, with medication used conservatively as one supportive tool. My goal is to help patients feel informed, supported, and more stable over time.
(952) 254-4349 View (952) 254-4349
Photo of Suzanne E Trunnell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Suzanne E Trunnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Edina, MN 55439
If you feel overwhelmed or exhausted, you are not alone. Support is available for ongoing anxiety, depression, or stress. Whether you are a teen, adult, or senior, these challenges can affect your well-being. I provide a supportive, professional environment where we can discuss your experiences together.
If you feel overwhelmed or exhausted, you are not alone. Support is available for ongoing anxiety, depression, or stress. Whether you are a teen, adult, or senior, these challenges can affect your well-being. I provide a supportive, professional environment where we can discuss your experiences together.
(612) 448-3724 View (612) 448-3724
Photo of Jessi Atherton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Jessi Atherton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Minnetonka, MN 55343
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am deeply committed to the belief that healing and self-growth are profound acts of self-love, serving as the greatest gifts we can offer ourselves and those around us. It is an honor and privilege to guide my patients on their healing journeys, with a special focus on medication management for children and adolescents navigating ADHD, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My treatment philosophy centers on meeting individuals where they are, fostering safety, and collaborating to achieve holistic wellness.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am deeply committed to the belief that healing and self-growth are profound acts of self-love, serving as the greatest gifts we can offer ourselves and those around us. It is an honor and privilege to guide my patients on their healing journeys, with a special focus on medication management for children and adolescents navigating ADHD, neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My treatment philosophy centers on meeting individuals where they are, fostering safety, and collaborating to achieve holistic wellness.
(612) 416-6085 View (612) 416-6085
Photo of Gerard Dickmu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Gerard Dickmu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, or other mental health concerns. Many seek support when feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about how to move forward. I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard and respected. Together, we identify strengths, address challenges, and develop practical strategies to improve mental health and overall well-being. My goal is to help clients build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and achieve lasting positive change.
My ideal clients are adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, or other mental health concerns. Many seek support when feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about how to move forward. I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard and respected. Together, we identify strengths, address challenges, and develop practical strategies to improve mental health and overall well-being. My goal is to help clients build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and achieve lasting positive change.
(701) 773-7205 View (701) 773-7205
Photo of Temitope Dawodu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Temitope Dawodu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I received my doctorate from Minnesota State University Mankato in 2019. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University in 2015 and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certification from Washburn University in 2022. I was trained at the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Pediatric and Young Adult Medicine in Saint Paul, Minnesota. I did all my mental health clinical hours at Pinnacle Mental and Behavioral Health in Edina. I have been a nurse since 2007; I worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse.
I received my doctorate from Minnesota State University Mankato in 2019. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University in 2015 and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certification from Washburn University in 2022. I was trained at the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Pediatric and Young Adult Medicine in Saint Paul, Minnesota. I did all my mental health clinical hours at Pinnacle Mental and Behavioral Health in Edina. I have been a nurse since 2007; I worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse.
(651) 650-4172 View (651) 650-4172
Photo of Chidinma Eze - Edprogia Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , CCHP, FNP, PMNHP
Edprogia Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , CCHP, FNP, PMNHP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based. We offer treatment options for: • Anxiety Disorders • Substance Use Disorders • Depression • Mood Disorders • PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) • OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) • ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) Located at 3223 A Corporate Court, Ellicott City, MD 2104, Personality disorders, DMDD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective disorder, and other mental health issues. Integrated Outpatient Treatment and all ages, in person and virtual apt We are committed to inclusive care and proudly support the LGBTQ+ community.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based. We offer treatment options for: • Anxiety Disorders • Substance Use Disorders • Depression • Mood Disorders • PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) • OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) • ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) Located at 3223 A Corporate Court, Ellicott City, MD 2104, Personality disorders, DMDD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective disorder, and other mental health issues. Integrated Outpatient Treatment and all ages, in person and virtual apt We are committed to inclusive care and proudly support the LGBTQ+ community.
(443) 960-7840 View (443) 960-7840
Photo of Temitope Dawodu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Temitope Dawodu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Shoreview, MN 55126
Our ideal client is any one seeking answers about their mental or emotional health. We can help create a treatment plan together to help you achieve your personal goals.
Our ideal client is any one seeking answers about their mental or emotional health. We can help create a treatment plan together to help you achieve your personal goals.
(651) 615-9465 View (651) 615-9465
Photo of Gladys Ndege, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gladys Ndege
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
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.
(651) 427-4871 View (651) 427-4871
Photo of Michael Tochukwu Nwanna - GoodPlace Mental Health Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP-B
GoodPlace Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP-B
Online Only
GoodPlace serves individuals across the lifespan, children, adolescents, and adults, who are navigating mental health challenges and need thoughtful, clinically sound care. More specifically, my ideal clients tend to be: - Individuals experiencing conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, or other psychiatric concerns - Patients seeking medication management with careful monitoring, not rushed prescribing - Families looking for guidance and stability for a child or adolescent - Adults balancing mental health with work, family, and daily responsibilities - Clients who value accessible care, including telehealth
GoodPlace serves individuals across the lifespan, children, adolescents, and adults, who are navigating mental health challenges and need thoughtful, clinically sound care. More specifically, my ideal clients tend to be: - Individuals experiencing conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, or other psychiatric concerns - Patients seeking medication management with careful monitoring, not rushed prescribing - Families looking for guidance and stability for a child or adolescent - Adults balancing mental health with work, family, and daily responsibilities - Clients who value accessible care, including telehealth
(763) 373-9507 View (763) 373-9507
Photo of Zach McCalley, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Zach McCalley
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Minnetonka, MN 55305
My ideal client is an adult or adolescent with any mental health concern. They may need medication management and/or psychotherapy services. They may need referrals to other services offered by Sagent Behavioral health such as individual psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, dietician services or others. I am open to seeing adolescent or adult clients who may have any mental health concern at all.
My ideal client is an adult or adolescent with any mental health concern. They may need medication management and/or psychotherapy services. They may need referrals to other services offered by Sagent Behavioral health such as individual psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, dietician services or others. I am open to seeing adolescent or adult clients who may have any mental health concern at all.
(952) 649-5206 View (952) 649-5206
Photo of Michelle Kotte, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michelle Kotte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Michelle Kotte is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of nursing experience. She creates a warm, supportive environment and values open communication. Michelle is passionate about focusing on the whole person and tailoring care to each client’s unique needs. Michelle’s approach is direct, collaborative, and centered on partnership. She works closely with clients to develop a personalized plan, emphasizing transparency and shared decision-making throughout treatment.
Michelle Kotte is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of nursing experience. She creates a warm, supportive environment and values open communication. Michelle is passionate about focusing on the whole person and tailoring care to each client’s unique needs. Michelle’s approach is direct, collaborative, and centered on partnership. She works closely with clients to develop a personalized plan, emphasizing transparency and shared decision-making throughout treatment.
(952) 299-5283 View (952) 299-5283
Photo of Joshua David Meadows, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joshua David Meadows
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Golden Valley, MN 55422
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and supervising collaborator, I specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based treatment tailored to fit the unique needs of the client. My approach includes both pharmacological and non pharmacological treatment modalities that promote overall mental wellness by focusing on holistic care. I am currently licensed in AZ, MD, and MN.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and supervising collaborator, I specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based treatment tailored to fit the unique needs of the client. My approach includes both pharmacological and non pharmacological treatment modalities that promote overall mental wellness by focusing on holistic care. I am currently licensed in AZ, MD, and MN.
(612) 441-4130 View (612) 441-4130
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(651) 302-7571 View (651) 302-7571
Photo of Nasro Ahmed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nasro Ahmed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Nasro Ahmed, I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC), also certified in Family Nurse Practice (FNP-C) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-C). I am deeply committed to supporting clients through challenging times, celebrating their successes, and helping them overcome obstacles. My approach to care focuses on treating clients holistically, addressing both physical and mental health needs. My goal is to create a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings while fostering skills for long-term coping and resilience.
My name is Nasro Ahmed, I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC), also certified in Family Nurse Practice (FNP-C) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-C). I am deeply committed to supporting clients through challenging times, celebrating their successes, and helping them overcome obstacles. My approach to care focuses on treating clients holistically, addressing both physical and mental health needs. My goal is to create a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings while fostering skills for long-term coping and resilience.
(662) 330-1253 View (662) 330-1253
Photo of Olukayode O Awosika, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Olukayode O Awosika
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
Dr. Olukayode Awosika has over 20 years of extensive experience in psychiatry, encompassing community, private, and international practice. He is board-certified in general psychiatry and has delivered compassionate and comprehensive care across various settings, including outpatient and inpatient facilities, emergency psychiatry, and consult liaison services. Dr. Awosika specializes in thorough evaluations, medication management, and treatment planning for patients with treatment-resistant mood disorders, particularly depression. He integrates advanced technologies, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), into practice.
Dr. Olukayode Awosika has over 20 years of extensive experience in psychiatry, encompassing community, private, and international practice. He is board-certified in general psychiatry and has delivered compassionate and comprehensive care across various settings, including outpatient and inpatient facilities, emergency psychiatry, and consult liaison services. Dr. Awosika specializes in thorough evaluations, medication management, and treatment planning for patients with treatment-resistant mood disorders, particularly depression. He integrates advanced technologies, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), into practice.
(952) 314-4594 View (952) 314-4594
Photo of Elizabeth Emebo - Jozir Mental Health Services Pllc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Jozir Mental Health Services Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new clients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Minnesota. Have you been wanting to speak to a professional but have been reluctant? You are not alone! We understand mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. We are dedicated to promoting the holistic well-being of our clients. Additionally, there is evening and weekend availability for services. Appointments can be requested on our website!
Accepting new clients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Minnesota. Have you been wanting to speak to a professional but have been reluctant? You are not alone! We understand mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma can affect every aspect of your life. We are dedicated to promoting the holistic well-being of our clients. Additionally, there is evening and weekend availability for services. Appointments can be requested on our website!
(832) 501-1085 View (832) 501-1085
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119

See more therapy options for Rosemount

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Rosemount, MN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Rosemount, MN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
67% ADHD
67% Trauma and PTSD
33% Geriatric
33% Relationship Issues
33% Child

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Rosemount, MN see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Rosemount?

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.