Psychiatrists in Roseville, MN

Photo of Chinwe Eke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chinwe Eke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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. I want to offer my clients guidance that can change their lives so they can overcome challenging circumstances, work with the assessment team, and continue their treatment and medication management. I have strong analytical skills, work well under pressure, and enjoy participating in the clinical team.
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. I want to offer my clients guidance that can change their lives so they can overcome challenging circumstances, work with the assessment team, and continue their treatment and medication management. I have strong analytical skills, work well under pressure, and enjoy participating in the clinical team.
(612) 482-8593 View (612) 482-8593
Photo of Beth Hanson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Beth Hanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Roseville, MN 55113
People do not stop functioning without a reason. Whether it looks like emotional dysregulation, shutdowns, anxiety, medical concerns, executive dysfunction, or “nothing seems to help” situations, there is often more to the story. I work with children, adults, and overwhelmed parents struggling in ways that no longer make sense, helping uncover what is happening and why.
People do not stop functioning without a reason. Whether it looks like emotional dysregulation, shutdowns, anxiety, medical concerns, executive dysfunction, or “nothing seems to help” situations, there is often more to the story. I work with children, adults, and overwhelmed parents struggling in ways that no longer make sense, helping uncover what is happening and why.
(651) 556-2926 View (651) 556-2926
Photo of Dr. Ediomi Edee Oduwole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Ediomi Edee Oduwole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience, I have developed a specialty in treating patients struggling with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Throughout my career, I have focused on providing evidence-based care for those suffering from these common yet challenging mental health conditions. Using a comprehensive approach including psychotherapy, medication management, and community referrals, I work closely with each individual to understand their unique experiences and develop a personalized treatment plan.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience, I have developed a specialty in treating patients struggling with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Throughout my career, I have focused on providing evidence-based care for those suffering from these common yet challenging mental health conditions. Using a comprehensive approach including psychotherapy, medication management, and community referrals, I work closely with each individual to understand their unique experiences and develop a personalized treatment plan.
(281) 872-6461 View (281) 872-6461
Photo of Dr. Chinwe Eke - Dynamics Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Dynamics Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Roseville, MN 55113
I want to offer my clients guidance that can change their lives so they can overcome challenging circumstances, work with the assessment team, and continue their treatment and medication management. I have strong analytical skills, work well under pressure, and enjoy participating in the clinical team. I am committed to my goal and believe I have the necessary qualities as a successful Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I want to offer my clients guidance that can change their lives so they can overcome challenging circumstances, work with the assessment team, and continue their treatment and medication management. I have strong analytical skills, work well under pressure, and enjoy participating in the clinical team. I am committed to my goal and believe I have the necessary qualities as a successful Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(952) 260-1948 View (952) 260-1948
Photo of Nicole Burkette Ikebata, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Nicole Burkette Ikebata
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Roseville, MN 55113
At Maple Psychiatry, I help children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with self acceptance, worry, irritability, sadness and difficulty in relationships who crave change for themselves. If you are creative and open to trying new things in order to change and grow, we will work great together!
At Maple Psychiatry, I help children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with self acceptance, worry, irritability, sadness and difficulty in relationships who crave change for themselves. If you are creative and open to trying new things in order to change and grow, we will work great together!
(651) 371-2762 View (651) 371-2762
Photo of Olivia Grayson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Olivia Grayson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Roseville, MN 55113
If you’re looking for psychiatric care that isn’t rushed or one-size-fits-all, you may be a good fit for my practice. Many of my patients come to me after feeling their care was shaped by a preset approach rather than their individual needs. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, or feeling overwhelmed. I take time to listen and involve patients in decisions so treatment reflects their goals and needs.
If you’re looking for psychiatric care that isn’t rushed or one-size-fits-all, you may be a good fit for my practice. Many of my patients come to me after feeling their care was shaped by a preset approach rather than their individual needs. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, or feeling overwhelmed. I take time to listen and involve patients in decisions so treatment reflects their goals and needs.
(763) 900-5115 View (763) 900-5115
Photo of Shuri Loveline Nwunasi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Shuri Loveline Nwunasi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
2 Endorsed
Roseville, MN 55113
I use an evidence-based, culturally sensitive model of care with my clients. I believe every client has a unique set of needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach. I believe my clients' health needs are better understood when their preference, cultural beliefs are prioritized. using an interdisciplinary approach, we work collaborative with client's preferred health needs to attain a level of care that is individualized and optimal. Shuri Loveline Nwunasi, APRN, CNP Board Certified in Minnesota Clinic Director at Outpatient Psychiatry, based in MN, serves all of MN.
I use an evidence-based, culturally sensitive model of care with my clients. I believe every client has a unique set of needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach. I believe my clients' health needs are better understood when their preference, cultural beliefs are prioritized. using an interdisciplinary approach, we work collaborative with client's preferred health needs to attain a level of care that is individualized and optimal. Shuri Loveline Nwunasi, APRN, CNP Board Certified in Minnesota Clinic Director at Outpatient Psychiatry, based in MN, serves all of MN.
(763) 878-6251 View (763) 878-6251
Photo of Jacob Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Jacob Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Jake. I provide psychiatric care for adults across Minnesota with a focus on ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and trauma. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling to find answers, you're not alone. My approach is practical, collaborative, and personalized. As the owner of Brainstorm Behavioral Services, I take time to understand your unique situation and develop a treatment plan that fits your goals. All appointments are conducted through secure telehealth, making quality mental health care accessible wherever you are in Minnesota.
Hi, I’m Jake. I provide psychiatric care for adults across Minnesota with a focus on ADHD, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and trauma. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling to find answers, you're not alone. My approach is practical, collaborative, and personalized. As the owner of Brainstorm Behavioral Services, I take time to understand your unique situation and develop a treatment plan that fits your goals. All appointments are conducted through secure telehealth, making quality mental health care accessible wherever you are in Minnesota.
(612) 682-3361 View (612) 682-3361
Photo of Kayla Kvell - Sigma Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, DNP, PMHNP
Sigma Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
At Sigma Health, we believe mental and physical health are inseparable. Our clinicians take a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to wellness—addressing hormones, metabolism, and lifestyle factors alongside psychiatric care. We help clients understand the why behind how they feel, and create individualized strategies that optimize mood, energy, focus, and performance.
At Sigma Health, we believe mental and physical health are inseparable. Our clinicians take a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to wellness—addressing hormones, metabolism, and lifestyle factors alongside psychiatric care. We help clients understand the why behind how they feel, and create individualized strategies that optimize mood, energy, focus, and performance.
(612) 887-9767 View (612) 887-9767
Photo of Michael Moore, Psychiatrist, MD, FABP
Michael Moore
Psychiatrist, MD, FABP
Serves Area
I am board certified in adult psychiatry, child psychiatry, and psychoanalysis. I offer psychoanalytic treatment, ranging from weekly psychoanalytic psychotherapy to psychoanalysis. I prescribe medications to help patients feel good enough to engage more fully in their lives and therapy. The benefits of such treatment not just symptom alleviation, but permanent desired changes and expanded self-knowledge that improve the quality and depth of one's life. Psychoanalytic treatment is aimed towards permanent improvement and improved mental and physical health. It leads to expanded possibilities in relationships and work and an increased sense of agency in one's life.
I am board certified in adult psychiatry, child psychiatry, and psychoanalysis. I offer psychoanalytic treatment, ranging from weekly psychoanalytic psychotherapy to psychoanalysis. I prescribe medications to help patients feel good enough to engage more fully in their lives and therapy. The benefits of such treatment not just symptom alleviation, but permanent desired changes and expanded self-knowledge that improve the quality and depth of one's life. Psychoanalytic treatment is aimed towards permanent improvement and improved mental and physical health. It leads to expanded possibilities in relationships and work and an increased sense of agency in one's life.
(612) 294-7628 View (612) 294-7628
Photo of Amanda Braatz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Amanda Braatz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Amanda is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), specializing in providing medication evaluations and ongoing medication management for adults. She has experience with a wide range of mental health concerns, including: PTSD/trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, psychosis, and personality disorders.
Amanda is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), specializing in providing medication evaluations and ongoing medication management for adults. She has experience with a wide range of mental health concerns, including: PTSD/trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, psychosis, and personality disorders.
(651) 899-3761 View (651) 899-3761

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Helen Wood - Helen Wood, MD, PA, Psychiatrist, MD
Helen Wood, MD, PA
Psychiatrist, MD
Edina, MN 55439
New appointment times are available starting in January, 2017. I look forward to working with patients that desire to improve their emotional and mental health and are motivated to take active steps toward achieving their recovery.
New appointment times are available starting in January, 2017. I look forward to working with patients that desire to improve their emotional and mental health and are motivated to take active steps toward achieving their recovery.
(952) 679-8836 View (952) 679-8836
Photo of Damaris Chukwura, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Damaris Chukwura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Damaris Chukwura, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health care. She began her nursing career in 2007 and has been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2014. Damaris has worked in a wide range of settings including inpatient hospitals, residential treatment centers, partial and intensive outpatient programs, correctional psychiatry, and substance abuse treatment. Her clinical experience spans various conditions such as ADHD, eating disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and treatment-resistant depression.
Damaris Chukwura, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health care. She began her nursing career in 2007 and has been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2014. Damaris has worked in a wide range of settings including inpatient hospitals, residential treatment centers, partial and intensive outpatient programs, correctional psychiatry, and substance abuse treatment. Her clinical experience spans various conditions such as ADHD, eating disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and treatment-resistant depression.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of James C Van Doren - James C. Van Doren, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
James C. Van Doren, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. I provide comprehensive treatment by using medication management with psychotherapy in a holistic approach, recognizing the unique life experiences of each patient.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. I provide comprehensive treatment by using medication management with psychotherapy in a holistic approach, recognizing the unique life experiences of each patient.
(651) 376-2640 View (651) 376-2640
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Minneapolis, MN 55404
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
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 Dr. Erica Vance, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Erica Vance
Psychiatrist, MD
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Dr. Erica Vance, MD, is a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Minnesota. She offers personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs, ensuring a supportive environment for those seeking assistance with various mental health concerns. Dr. Vance specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.Dr. Erica Vance, MD, is a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, committed to providing compassionate and compreh
Dr. Erica Vance, MD, is a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Minnesota. She offers personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs, ensuring a supportive environment for those seeking assistance with various mental health concerns. Dr. Vance specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.Dr. Erica Vance, MD, is a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, committed to providing compassionate and compreh
(651) 413-9198 View (651) 413-9198
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 Lynn Gevik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Lynn Gevik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Many people who reach out are functioning on the outside but feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or worn down internally. You might be wondering if what you’re experiencing is “enough” to ask for help, or you may have tried things that didn’t quite fit. Often, what people are really looking for is clarity—something that makes sense of what’s been happening and a way forward that feels grounded and realistic.
Many people who reach out are functioning on the outside but feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or worn down internally. You might be wondering if what you’re experiencing is “enough” to ask for help, or you may have tried things that didn’t quite fit. Often, what people are really looking for is clarity—something that makes sense of what’s been happening and a way forward that feels grounded and realistic.
(952) 900-2967 View (952) 900-2967
Photo of Heather Teske, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN-BC
Heather Teske
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN-BC
Online Only
Heather shares her time at Introspect Mental Health and Peak Behavioral Health I work with individuals with depression, anxiety, life stress, schizophrenia, developmental delays, BIPOC, LGTBQIA+ and those wanting change from substance abuse. I strive to work with clients sharing my experience, scientific research, and their goal to reach their highest potential. I have experience working with ages 16+ in areas of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), inpatient and outpatient co-occurring mental and substance use programs, serious and persistent mental illness, developmental delays/ASD, MAT (suboxone/vivitrol/naltrexone) and more.
Heather shares her time at Introspect Mental Health and Peak Behavioral Health I work with individuals with depression, anxiety, life stress, schizophrenia, developmental delays, BIPOC, LGTBQIA+ and those wanting change from substance abuse. I strive to work with clients sharing my experience, scientific research, and their goal to reach their highest potential. I have experience working with ages 16+ in areas of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), inpatient and outpatient co-occurring mental and substance use programs, serious and persistent mental illness, developmental delays/ASD, MAT (suboxone/vivitrol/naltrexone) and more.
(651) 493-2055 View (651) 493-2055

See more therapy options for Roseville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Roseville, MN

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Roseville, MN who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
91% Depression
91% ADHD
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Bipolar Disorder
73% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
89% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Roseville, MN see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Roseville?

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.