Psychiatrists in Savage, MN
Immediate Telehealth and in person clinic appointments available. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My focus is on providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. I am empathetic, a good listener, and is willing to give an honest diagnosis and treatment plan irrespective of race, gender, or sexual orientation.
Immediate Telehealth and in person clinic appointments available. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My focus is on providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. I am empathetic, a good listener, and is willing to give an honest diagnosis and treatment plan irrespective of race, gender, or sexual orientation.
I welcome the diversity of all people and approach everyone as a priority. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. As your advocate, I strive to enhance your personal wellbeing through honest and transparent communication. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and for what is important to you. To me, you are not just my client, you are a unique and valuable person, who happens to be my client. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
I welcome the diversity of all people and approach everyone as a priority. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. As your advocate, I strive to enhance your personal wellbeing through honest and transparent communication. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and for what is important to you. To me, you are not just my client, you are a unique and valuable person, who happens to be my client. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
Brenna Christie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds and have a particular interest in women’s mental health. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and what is important to you. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds and have a particular interest in women’s mental health. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and what is important to you. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
Grant Gregory is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and received his Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota in 2014. He has enjoyed working in the behavioral health field since 2006. He has worked and trained in a variety of settings including chemical dependency facilities, adult/child/adolescent inpatient hospitals, outpatient and forensic settings, and in residential treatment of severe and persistent mental illnesses.
Grant Gregory is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and received his Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota in 2014. He has enjoyed working in the behavioral health field since 2006. He has worked and trained in a variety of settings including chemical dependency facilities, adult/child/adolescent inpatient hospitals, outpatient and forensic settings, and in residential treatment of severe and persistent mental illnesses.
Samantha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of mental health settings across the lifespan including inpatient, residential, and chemical dependency treatment. She is currently focused on treating patients ages 18 and up. For the past two years, Samantha has been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner on the inpatient psychiatry consult service in partnership with Fairview and the University of Minnesota Physicians, where she served patients who were medically and psychologically complex.
Samantha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of mental health settings across the lifespan including inpatient, residential, and chemical dependency treatment. She is currently focused on treating patients ages 18 and up. For the past two years, Samantha has been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner on the inpatient psychiatry consult service in partnership with Fairview and the University of Minnesota Physicians, where she served patients who were medically and psychologically complex.
Jessica Wettlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378 (Online Only)
Jessica is a highly trained and knowledgeable Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree in Nursing and Board Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health. She has spent over 21 years in mental health serving both child and adult clients and is passionate about helping others navigate their own mental health challenges. She started her career in mental health working in both the adult and juvenile correction settings, mental health group homes, and continued on into the Healthcare setting. She has since served in inpatient hospitals, supervised mental health lodging facilities, and taught mental health in Universities and hospitals.
Jessica is a highly trained and knowledgeable Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree in Nursing and Board Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health. She has spent over 21 years in mental health serving both child and adult clients and is passionate about helping others navigate their own mental health challenges. She started her career in mental health working in both the adult and juvenile correction settings, mental health group homes, and continued on into the Healthcare setting. She has since served in inpatient hospitals, supervised mental health lodging facilities, and taught mental health in Universities and hospitals.
With a passion for mental health and a commitment to patient care, Olivia strives to provide personalized and holistic treatment plans that promote well-being and recovery. She is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients and is driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to high-quality mental health care.
With a passion for mental health and a commitment to patient care, Olivia strives to provide personalized and holistic treatment plans that promote well-being and recovery. She is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients and is driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to high-quality mental health care.
Afolake Adewumi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
Afolake is a board certified, advanced practice provider who is passionate about providing safe, and holistic care to clients across the lifespan. Afolake provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and on-going psychiatric care for patients of all ages. With her experience working in various care settings (inpatient, transitional, and outpatient populations) and a background in health and wellness coaching, Afolake, listens to help identify and prioritize the unique needs of each client.
Afolake is a board certified, advanced practice provider who is passionate about providing safe, and holistic care to clients across the lifespan. Afolake provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and on-going psychiatric care for patients of all ages. With her experience working in various care settings (inpatient, transitional, and outpatient populations) and a background in health and wellness coaching, Afolake, listens to help identify and prioritize the unique needs of each client.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Marquitta Trimnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
Living with a mental illness can be challenging. Maybe you have sought out support from loved ones or are engaged in psychotherapy, but continue to struggle with symptoms that impact your daily life. If you are interested in discussing the other interventions we offer here at Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare, from supplements and medications to Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), please reach out and schedule a time for us to connect!
Living with a mental illness can be challenging. Maybe you have sought out support from loved ones or are engaged in psychotherapy, but continue to struggle with symptoms that impact your daily life. If you are interested in discussing the other interventions we offer here at Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare, from supplements and medications to Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), please reach out and schedule a time for us to connect!
Emerald Bridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prior Lake, MN 55372 (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 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!
Dr. Anna Ludowese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shakopee, MN 55379
Hello! My name is Anna Ludowese and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide holistic psychiatric services both in person at Family Attachment and Counseling Center located in Chaska, MN and online. I work with a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and other psychiatric illnesses. I see individuals aged 6 to 65. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment so that you feel comfortable and safe as we address your mental health concerns.
Hello! My name is Anna Ludowese and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide holistic psychiatric services both in person at Family Attachment and Counseling Center located in Chaska, MN and online. I work with a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and other psychiatric illnesses. I see individuals aged 6 to 65. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment so that you feel comfortable and safe as we address your mental health concerns.
Joanne Howden-Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Hello, I'm Joanne, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. I offer the convenience of both in-office and telehealth appointments, ensuring you can access care in a way that best suits your needs. My approach is holistic, combining medication where necessary with therapy to treat a wide variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and behavioral issues. I am not just a provider but a partner in your mental health journey.
Hello, I'm Joanne, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. I offer the convenience of both in-office and telehealth appointments, ensuring you can access care in a way that best suits your needs. My approach is holistic, combining medication where necessary with therapy to treat a wide variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and behavioral issues. I am not just a provider but a partner in your mental health journey.
Kadian Simmonds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044 (Online Only)
Our mental health is essential in keeping us balanced in our daily lives. I can help you obtain balance in your mental health. My goal is to help you handle your interpretation and response to your daily stressors. I can assist you through psychotherapy or prescriptive medications. During my spare time I enjoy the oceans and rivers. My interpretation of life is like the ocean coming to shore, it is always a different wave symbolic for our opportunity to make a difference daily.
Our mental health is essential in keeping us balanced in our daily lives. I can help you obtain balance in your mental health. My goal is to help you handle your interpretation and response to your daily stressors. I can assist you through psychotherapy or prescriptive medications. During my spare time I enjoy the oceans and rivers. My interpretation of life is like the ocean coming to shore, it is always a different wave symbolic for our opportunity to make a difference daily.
Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees in Nursing from The College of St. Scholastica. Krista provides a nonjudgmental approach to patient centered care and tries to avoid the "one size fits all" approach to patient care. Outside of work, Krista really loves to travel and explore new places. Hiking is one of her favorite activities, especially when the weather is nice.
Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees in Nursing from The College of St. Scholastica. Krista provides a nonjudgmental approach to patient centered care and tries to avoid the "one size fits all" approach to patient care. Outside of work, Krista really loves to travel and explore new places. Hiking is one of her favorite activities, especially when the weather is nice.
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shakopee, MN 55379
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.
Nexus of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044 (Online Only)
NOW TAKING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VIDEO APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE! Appointments are available within 7 days or less. We also have extended evening hours. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
NOW TAKING NEW PATIENTS! ONLINE VIDEO APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE! Appointments are available within 7 days or less. We also have extended evening hours. Our providers have over 30 years of combined healthcare experience with degrees in kinesiology, public health, pharmacology, and nursing. We bring a holistic and collaborative approach to psychiatric care. We believe that individuals require transparency, compassion, genuineness, and empathy from their medical providers.
Brightstone Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lakeville, MN 55044
Our clients are the ideal everyday person facing life's challenges. At Brightstone Psychiatry we are here to serve our clients and make their days a little brighter. As psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, we take pride in providing individualized care and working with clients to help them with trauma, relationships, family and work related stressors, or just to be a helping hand or listening ear. We strive to meet the clients’ goals, listen to their needs, and collaborate with other professionals to meet or exceed the client's expectations.
Our clients are the ideal everyday person facing life's challenges. At Brightstone Psychiatry we are here to serve our clients and make their days a little brighter. As psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, we take pride in providing individualized care and working with clients to help them with trauma, relationships, family and work related stressors, or just to be a helping hand or listening ear. We strive to meet the clients’ goals, listen to their needs, and collaborate with other professionals to meet or exceed the client's expectations.
Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare provides a comprehensive service for individuals with a variety of psychiatric and psychological problems. The mission of our company is to provide top-notch patient-centered services to individuals with mental health needs in a dignifying and compassionate manner. We are committed to excellence in helping our patients improve the quality of their lives in a timely manner. We welcome new patients and are always happy to accept referrals from various sources. We provide assessments and evaluations of mental illnesses, Crisis management, Medication management, Individual and group psychotherapy (talking through problems).
Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare provides a comprehensive service for individuals with a variety of psychiatric and psychological problems. The mission of our company is to provide top-notch patient-centered services to individuals with mental health needs in a dignifying and compassionate manner. We are committed to excellence in helping our patients improve the quality of their lives in a timely manner. We welcome new patients and are always happy to accept referrals from various sources. We provide assessments and evaluations of mental illnesses, Crisis management, Medication management, Individual and group psychotherapy (talking through problems).
Funsho King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
My name is Funsho King, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc. throughout the lifespan. My goal as a provider is to provide the care that you deserve. I am a good listener, compassionate, genuine, and empathetic.
My name is Funsho King, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc. throughout the lifespan. My goal as a provider is to provide the care that you deserve. I am a good listener, compassionate, genuine, and empathetic.
See more therapy options for Savage
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Savage, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Savage, MN who prioritize treating:
63% | Depression |
63% | Anxiety |
63% | Medication Management |
50% | Addiction |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in Savage, MN see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
57% | Male | |
43% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Savage?
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.