Psychiatrists in Wayzata, MN

Photo of Collin Cowart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Collin Cowart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wayzata, MN 55391
My clients are ready to make a change that will have a positive impact in their lives and improve their quality of life. My clients spend their time with me because we work as a team to identify obstacles and support the process of growth. Even if my clients don't know what direction they're headed or how to make things better, they know I'm there to support them until they can find their own path.
My clients are ready to make a change that will have a positive impact in their lives and improve their quality of life. My clients spend their time with me because we work as a team to identify obstacles and support the process of growth. Even if my clients don't know what direction they're headed or how to make things better, they know I'm there to support them until they can find their own path.
(763) 314-4471 View (763) 314-4471
Photo of Leigh A. Hagglund, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Leigh A. Hagglund
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Wayzata, MN 55391
I work with adults between the ages of 21-65, who are ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Those who possess insight, a spiritual inclination, and a desire for guidance as they stand at the crossroads of change feel most aligned with me and my practice. Whether you are contemplating a new direction in your career, relationships, or personal growth, I’m here to support and empower you to take charge of your well-being. You are allowed to prioritize your needs and nurture yourself. That is why I focus on your unique aspirations and tailor your therapy to meet your goals.
I work with adults between the ages of 21-65, who are ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Those who possess insight, a spiritual inclination, and a desire for guidance as they stand at the crossroads of change feel most aligned with me and my practice. Whether you are contemplating a new direction in your career, relationships, or personal growth, I’m here to support and empower you to take charge of your well-being. You are allowed to prioritize your needs and nurture yourself. That is why I focus on your unique aspirations and tailor your therapy to meet your goals.
(763) 280-3770 View (763) 280-3770
Photo of Haley Carlock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Haley Carlock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
(763) 294-7972 View (763) 294-7972
Photo of 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 MacKenzie Kampa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
MacKenzie Kampa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help moms, dads, & high-stress professionals who want to feel less anxious. I am trained as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, meaning I can evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions, like prescribing medicines for you. I work primarily with people who are obsessive, nervous, & hesitant about medicine, or prefer to try natural remedies first (for reasons like pregnancy, nursing, FAA, and military regs). I am a certified Integrative Psychiatric Provider for adults and specialize in perinatal mental health. I also provide psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals looking for therapy or both therapy + psychiatric care.
I help moms, dads, & high-stress professionals who want to feel less anxious. I am trained as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, meaning I can evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions, like prescribing medicines for you. I work primarily with people who are obsessive, nervous, & hesitant about medicine, or prefer to try natural remedies first (for reasons like pregnancy, nursing, FAA, and military regs). I am a certified Integrative Psychiatric Provider for adults and specialize in perinatal mental health. I also provide psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals looking for therapy or both therapy + psychiatric care.
(612) 662-4545 View (612) 662-4545
Photo of Mood And Anxiety Disorders Center, Psychiatrist
Mood And Anxiety Disorders Center
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
The providers at our clinic are dedicated to providing the most empathetic, effective, evidence-based treatment for our patients with mood and anxiety disorders. Our providers understand the complexities of the various psychiatric medications used to manage these illnesses so our treatments are more effective. We have often found that patients who are referred to us have been put on many psychiatric medications that may not be truly targeting the individual's symptoms. We take the time to truly understand our patients, therefore, our treatment is truly more tailored to the individual.
The providers at our clinic are dedicated to providing the most empathetic, effective, evidence-based treatment for our patients with mood and anxiety disorders. Our providers understand the complexities of the various psychiatric medications used to manage these illnesses so our treatments are more effective. We have often found that patients who are referred to us have been put on many psychiatric medications that may not be truly targeting the individual's symptoms. We take the time to truly understand our patients, therefore, our treatment is truly more tailored to the individual.
(952) 260-2451 View (952) 260-2451
Photo of Twila B Germanson, Psychiatrist, MD
Twila B Germanson
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
As an experienced psychiatrist, I provide a range of services via telemedicine. These include diagnostic assessments, follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive therapy. I utilize electronic-prescriptions, sending them directly to your pharmacy. I graduated and completed residency in 1999 at the University of Minnesota Medical School. What sets my practice apart is the autonomy I enjoy in my private practice. This freedom allows me to allocate the necessary time to each patient, ensuring that I provide the highest standard of care, tailored to your unique needs.
As an experienced psychiatrist, I provide a range of services via telemedicine. These include diagnostic assessments, follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive therapy. I utilize electronic-prescriptions, sending them directly to your pharmacy. I graduated and completed residency in 1999 at the University of Minnesota Medical School. What sets my practice apart is the autonomy I enjoy in my private practice. This freedom allows me to allocate the necessary time to each patient, ensuring that I provide the highest standard of care, tailored to your unique needs.
(952) 529-4291 View (952) 529-4291
Photo of Israel Sokeye - Plymouth Psych Group, Psychiatrist
Plymouth Psych Group
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
(763) 225-2551 View (763) 225-2551

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Michelle Y. Pinckney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Michelle Pinckney, I am a doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience as a Registered Professional Nurse in the field of Mental Health. I am here to assist you with meeting your mental health needs. This practice is dedicated to spreading mental health awareness, breaking the cycle of the stigma associated with mental illness, and providing mental health treatment to address each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for patients with mental health needs in a patient-centered environment.
(843) 417-0261 View (843) 417-0261
Photo of For More Information - Nexus of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nexus of Hope Psychiatry & Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lakeville, MN 55044
TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Telehealth appointments are 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.
TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Telehealth appointments are 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.
(952) 955-4110 View (952) 955-4110
Photo of Joshua David Meadows, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joshua David Meadows
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based treatment tailored to fit the unique needs of the client. My approach includes both pharmacological and non pharmacological treatment modalities that promote overall mental wellness by focusing on holistic care.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based treatment tailored to fit the unique needs of the client. My approach includes both pharmacological and non pharmacological treatment modalities that promote overall mental wellness by focusing on holistic care.
(612) 441-4130 View (612) 441-4130
Photo of Joanna Ramirez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Joanna Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take pride in listening to people’s stories and learning who they are as an individual. I am committed to utilizing culturally competent, person-centered, holistic, trauma-informed approach to treat clients. My goal is to develop a trusting relationship with clients so that clients can actively participate in the development and implementation of an individualized treatment plan that fits their needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take pride in listening to people’s stories and learning who they are as an individual. I am committed to utilizing culturally competent, person-centered, holistic, trauma-informed approach to treat clients. My goal is to develop a trusting relationship with clients so that clients can actively participate in the development and implementation of an individualized treatment plan that fits their needs.
(612) 712-9238 View (612) 712-9238
Photo of John Luehr - TMS Center at Sonder Behavioral Health & Wellness, Psychiatrist, MD
Are you (or is someone you care about) struggling with severe depression that hasn’t improved, no matter what you’ve tried? We’re excited to introduce you to our newest offering at Sonder: TMS. It’s safe. Effective. Drug-free. And covered by most insurance companies. To learn more, visit us at www.sonderwellness.com
Are you (or is someone you care about) struggling with severe depression that hasn’t improved, no matter what you’ve tried? We’re excited to introduce you to our newest offering at Sonder: TMS. It’s safe. Effective. Drug-free. And covered by most insurance companies. To learn more, visit us at www.sonderwellness.com
(952) 260-0244 View (952) 260-0244
Photo of Laura Huff-Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Laura Huff-Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Anoka, MN 55303
Laura Huff-Johnson, PMHNP, practices in Minnesota and provides compassionate and evidence-based care to adolescents and adults. Specializing in medication management for mental health and substance use concerns, Laura is dedicated to helping patients regain stability and achieve their wellness goals. Her expertise includes supporting individuals recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals or navigating court-ordered treatments and legal matters, ensuring they receive the care and understanding they need during challenging times.
Laura Huff-Johnson, PMHNP, practices in Minnesota and provides compassionate and evidence-based care to adolescents and adults. Specializing in medication management for mental health and substance use concerns, Laura is dedicated to helping patients regain stability and achieve their wellness goals. Her expertise includes supporting individuals recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals or navigating court-ordered treatments and legal matters, ensuring they receive the care and understanding they need during challenging times.
(763) 363-6369 View (763) 363-6369
Photo of Olivia Grayson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Olivia Grayson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Savage, MN 55378
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.
(952) 592-3755 View (952) 592-3755
Photo of Michael Goedken, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Michael Goedken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Maplewood, MN 55109
Michael Goedken, PMHNP, is an experienced clinician serving adults in Minnesota through LifeStance Health. Specializing in treating complex mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, Mike provides comprehensive and empathetic care tailored to each individual's needs. With a focus on adults aged 18 to 64, his approach includes a combination of medication management and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients achieve optimal mental wellbeing.
Michael Goedken, PMHNP, is an experienced clinician serving adults in Minnesota through LifeStance Health. Specializing in treating complex mental health issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, Mike provides comprehensive and empathetic care tailored to each individual's needs. With a focus on adults aged 18 to 64, his approach includes a combination of medication management and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients achieve optimal mental wellbeing.
(651) 615-4791 View (651) 615-4791
Photo of Patrick Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patrick Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I believe in a holistic approach to mental health. I believe that we can achieve our best mental health by considering therapy, sleep, exercise, diet, and medication. I believe that my clients are all unique with their own life experiences and history that are important factors to consider in finding the best approach to their treatment. I approach behavioral health with a cognitive behavioral and logotherapy theoretical approach. I have treated clients across the lifespan. I have experience with patients struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia.
I believe in a holistic approach to mental health. I believe that we can achieve our best mental health by considering therapy, sleep, exercise, diet, and medication. I believe that my clients are all unique with their own life experiences and history that are important factors to consider in finding the best approach to their treatment. I approach behavioral health with a cognitive behavioral and logotherapy theoretical approach. I have treated clients across the lifespan. I have experience with patients struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia.
(651) 758-7670 View (651) 758-7670
Photo of Alicia Berger - Balance Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Online Only
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
(651) 314-1599 View (651) 314-1599
Photo of Dr. Lyuba Megits, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lyuba Megits
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
For those patients stuck in a cycle of not feeling fully alive and simply trying to solve one problem after another, we would work together to find the underlying issue. These roots are often embedded in familial relationships. Those individuals who are able to look at this facet of their life, would likely find the best fit with my practice.
For those patients stuck in a cycle of not feeling fully alive and simply trying to solve one problem after another, we would work together to find the underlying issue. These roots are often embedded in familial relationships. Those individuals who are able to look at this facet of their life, would likely find the best fit with my practice.
(612) 712-5458 View (612) 712-5458
Photo of Thelma Mahya Browne-Kaine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, DNP
Thelma Mahya Browne-Kaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, DNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As your provider, I conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and offer psychotherapy and psychopharmacology management to help you lead your best life. I approach my role as a friend, helping you understand your symptoms and diagnoses. My practice is centered on providing safe, empathetic, and patient-centric mental healthcare to children, adolescents, and adults. To achieve your healthcare goals, I follow evidence-based guidelines, complemented by my extensive clinical experience, personal observations, and intuition.
As your provider, I conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and offer psychotherapy and psychopharmacology management to help you lead your best life. I approach my role as a friend, helping you understand your symptoms and diagnoses. My practice is centered on providing safe, empathetic, and patient-centric mental healthcare to children, adolescents, and adults. To achieve your healthcare goals, I follow evidence-based guidelines, complemented by my extensive clinical experience, personal observations, and intuition.
(612) 998-9325 View (612) 998-9325

See more therapy options for Wayzata

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wayzata, MN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Wayzata, MN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
75% Sleep or Insomnia
63% ADHD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
80% PreferredOne

How Psychiatrists in Wayzata, MN see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

57% Female
43% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wayzata?

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.