Psychiatrists in Saint Louis County, MN

Tammy Word
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hibbing, MN 55746
Accepting new patients in MN for in person or telehealth!
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide specialized medication management that targets your unique challenges. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan designed to help you regain control, boost your mood, and enhance your focus. Start your journey to mental wellness today—because you deserve to thrive
Accepting new patients in MN for in person or telehealth!
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide specialized medication management that targets your unique challenges. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan designed to help you regain control, boost your mood, and enhance your focus. Start your journey to mental wellness today—because you deserve to thrive

As an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication evaluations and management, as well as Sexuality Counseling and Education Services to clients at Inner Fokus. My clinical foundation lies within my background as a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing psychiatric medication evaluation and management services. Medication with psychotherapy can provide many people with the highest standard of care. It is a big decision to incorporate medication into your psychological care, but the modalities are complementary, and usually lead to the most significant clinical improvement. Each medication appointment involves a complete assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, and collaborative discussion about treatment recommendations.
As an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication evaluations and management, as well as Sexuality Counseling and Education Services to clients at Inner Fokus. My clinical foundation lies within my background as a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing psychiatric medication evaluation and management services. Medication with psychotherapy can provide many people with the highest standard of care. It is a big decision to incorporate medication into your psychological care, but the modalities are complementary, and usually lead to the most significant clinical improvement. Each medication appointment involves a complete assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, and collaborative discussion about treatment recommendations.

Karen Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hibbing, MN 55746
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. I can help!
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. I can help!

Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, MN 55802
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.

Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance misuse, and other mental health issues across the lifespan. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I endeavor to treat the whole person empathetically, compassionately, and non-judgmentally while maintaining the patient’s dignity.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance misuse, and other mental health issues across the lifespan. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I endeavor to treat the whole person empathetically, compassionately, and non-judgmentally while maintaining the patient’s dignity.

Christina Kirchen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chisholm, MN 55719
Christina is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management and therapy services. She has specialty training in perinatal mental health and also cares for those with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis and all other mental health conditions.
Christina is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management and therapy services. She has specialty training in perinatal mental health and also cares for those with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis and all other mental health conditions.
Dr. Joannah Bluntach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hermantown, MN 55811
Hello to everyone! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in northern Minnesota.I am passionate about helping people and mental health. I strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and provide culturally sensitive, non-non-judgmental, non-judgmental, person-centered care. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you on meeting your goals. I created Compassionate Quality Psychiatry with the goal to provide quality, compassionate, affordable care to the community in Minnesota.
Hello to everyone! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in northern Minnesota.I am passionate about helping people and mental health. I strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and provide culturally sensitive, non-non-judgmental, non-judgmental, person-centered care. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you on meeting your goals. I created Compassionate Quality Psychiatry with the goal to provide quality, compassionate, affordable care to the community in Minnesota.

Firefly Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hermantown, MN 55811
At FireFly Mental Health, our mission is to provide accessible and patient centered mental wellness services that empower individuals to live their best lives. We are committed to assess, diagnose, treat, and manage mental health care. Our dedicated team is driven by shared passion for helping others and believes in empowering individuals to achieve their optimal mental wellbeing. Together, we strive to create a safe and welcoming space where everyone feels heard, understood, and supported on their journey to a brighter and healthier future.
At FireFly Mental Health, our mission is to provide accessible and patient centered mental wellness services that empower individuals to live their best lives. We are committed to assess, diagnose, treat, and manage mental health care. Our dedicated team is driven by shared passion for helping others and believes in empowering individuals to achieve their optimal mental wellbeing. Together, we strive to create a safe and welcoming space where everyone feels heard, understood, and supported on their journey to a brighter and healthier future.

What I love about psychiatry is helping you return to your True North. We work together to identify symptoms causing difficulty. We create a treatment plan that is based on your most deeply held beliefs, values, and principles. We celebrate when your symptoms lessen and you feel yourself moving back towards your True North.
What I love about psychiatry is helping you return to your True North. We work together to identify symptoms causing difficulty. We create a treatment plan that is based on your most deeply held beliefs, values, and principles. We celebrate when your symptoms lessen and you feel yourself moving back towards your True North.

We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55812
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.

VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55808
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Minnesota patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.
We are board-certified in treating Children and Adults. Accepting new Minnesota patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking for a holistic approach to proper diagnoses and treatment using the safest prescribing principles in addition to complementary and integrative offerings. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Accepting most major insurances plans. Affordable out-of-pocket rates.

Joy Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
What are your goals for treatment? - Effective psychiatric medication management - personal growth - transformation - mind shift - empowerment - creative solutions - productivity - connection - presence - life narrative - preparation - healing - insight - knowing - spiritual health - relationship with self.
What are your goals for treatment? - Effective psychiatric medication management - personal growth - transformation - mind shift - empowerment - creative solutions - productivity - connection - presence - life narrative - preparation - healing - insight - knowing - spiritual health - relationship with self.

Emerald Bridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dual-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing holistic and compassionate care to adults navigating the complexities of mental and physical health challenges. Mental well-being and physical health are deeply intertwined and I take pride in offering comprehensive treatment that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
As a dual-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, I am deeply committed to providing holistic and compassionate care to adults navigating the complexities of mental and physical health challenges. Mental well-being and physical health are deeply intertwined and I take pride in offering comprehensive treatment that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.

Denay Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Denay Kelly, your compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatric and hospital medicine. With a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, I've cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs. Throughout my career, I've embraced various pivotal roles that have allowed me to provide exceptional care in emergency situations and routine health management.
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Denay Kelly, your compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatric and hospital medicine. With a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, I've cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs. Throughout my career, I've embraced various pivotal roles that have allowed me to provide exceptional care in emergency situations and routine health management.

I believe that every individual and circumstance is unique, therefore a unique approach of care will result in the best possible outcome. Understanding the cultural, religious, psychological, and social characteristics of a patient and their family dynamic is of utmost importance when providing mental health care. I am accepting new patients ages 10+ for Medication management and Psychotherapy. Areas of focus include, but is not limited to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychosis and Adjustment Disorders.
I believe that every individual and circumstance is unique, therefore a unique approach of care will result in the best possible outcome. Understanding the cultural, religious, psychological, and social characteristics of a patient and their family dynamic is of utmost importance when providing mental health care. I am accepting new patients ages 10+ for Medication management and Psychotherapy. Areas of focus include, but is not limited to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychosis and Adjustment Disorders.

I am an ideal psychiatrist to treat patients who long for the time and space to be heard. Who want all their symptoms and concerns addressed, but never seem to find the psychiatrist who gives them the time of day. I take pride in my ability to adjust my pace to my patients' needs and to provide them a safe space to talk. Although as a physician I prescribe medications, I in no way, push medications on patients. I make recommendations and I collaborate with my patients and provide all the necessary information and tools to them to help them make the best possible decision for their mental health treatment.
I am an ideal psychiatrist to treat patients who long for the time and space to be heard. Who want all their symptoms and concerns addressed, but never seem to find the psychiatrist who gives them the time of day. I take pride in my ability to adjust my pace to my patients' needs and to provide them a safe space to talk. Although as a physician I prescribe medications, I in no way, push medications on patients. I make recommendations and I collaborate with my patients and provide all the necessary information and tools to them to help them make the best possible decision for their mental health treatment.

Nexus Of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We have multiple providers available ONLINE and IN-OFFICE! Offering TMS and ADHD services in addition to other alternative therapies! New evaluation appointments are currently available within 7 days or less. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience and fields with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We offer a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
We have multiple providers available ONLINE and IN-OFFICE! Offering TMS and ADHD services in addition to other alternative therapies! New evaluation appointments are currently available within 7 days or less. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience and fields with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We offer a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
See more therapy options for Saint Louis County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Saint Louis County, MN
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Saint Louis County, MN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Medication Management |
79% | Sleep or Insomnia |
75% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
79% | Optum |
75% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Saint Louis County, MN see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
92% | Female | |
8% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Saint Louis County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.