Psychiatrists in Florissant, MO

Photo of Kelly Mckinney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Kelly Mckinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who may feel overlooked in traditional healthcare settings, patients who often leave appointments feeling rushed, unheard, or dismissed. They may struggle with poor focus, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disturbances or other mental health challenges, and they want a provider who truly listens and takes the time to understand their story. Their goal is not only to feel better but also to be respected as an active partner in their care. They want compassion, patience, and a safe space where their voice matters.
My ideal client is someone who may feel overlooked in traditional healthcare settings, patients who often leave appointments feeling rushed, unheard, or dismissed. They may struggle with poor focus, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disturbances or other mental health challenges, and they want a provider who truly listens and takes the time to understand their story. Their goal is not only to feel better but also to be respected as an active partner in their care. They want compassion, patience, and a safe space where their voice matters.
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Photo of Brenda Bush - Innovative Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Innovative Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Serves Area
Brenda Bush is a dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Her focus is Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care Adult medicine. Brenda has been a nurse for 30 years and a Nurse Practitioner for 18 years. Her practitioner education is from Indiana Wesleyan University- Marion, Indiana and University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has a collaborative practice in St. Louis and surrounding cities in Mo. and is also licensed in Arizona, Kansas and Virgina. Her goal is to partner with you to create a treatment plan that improves your mental and physical health, enhancing your quality of life.
Brenda Bush is a dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Her focus is Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care Adult medicine. Brenda has been a nurse for 30 years and a Nurse Practitioner for 18 years. Her practitioner education is from Indiana Wesleyan University- Marion, Indiana and University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has a collaborative practice in St. Louis and surrounding cities in Mo. and is also licensed in Arizona, Kansas and Virgina. Her goal is to partner with you to create a treatment plan that improves your mental and physical health, enhancing your quality of life.
(314) 582-6420 View (314) 582-6420
Photo of Madelyn Hindia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, who is seeking effective and compassionate care. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms impacting their daily life and are looking for guidance in finding the right medications to regain balance and focus. Their goal is to improve their mental clarity, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life through a customized and thoughtful treatment approach.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, who is seeking effective and compassionate care. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms impacting their daily life and are looking for guidance in finding the right medications to regain balance and focus. Their goal is to improve their mental clarity, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life through a customized and thoughtful treatment approach.
(314) 948-4012 View (314) 948-4012
Photo of Suren Chaganti, Psychiatrist, MD,JD
Suren Chaganti
Psychiatrist, MD,JD
Online Only
Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, mood changes, or difficulty focusing, you’re not alone—and effective, straightforward treatment can help. My goal is to help you regain clarity, stability, and confidence. I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a unique background in both medicine and law, offering evidence-based treatment tailored to each individual. I am licensed with a DEA registration in CA, FL, GA, MO, and TX. With over 30 years of experience, I work with individuals from all walks of life, including children, students, working professionals, skilled tradespeople, caregivers, and retirees.
Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, mood changes, or difficulty focusing, you’re not alone—and effective, straightforward treatment can help. My goal is to help you regain clarity, stability, and confidence. I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a unique background in both medicine and law, offering evidence-based treatment tailored to each individual. I am licensed with a DEA registration in CA, FL, GA, MO, and TX. With over 30 years of experience, I work with individuals from all walks of life, including children, students, working professionals, skilled tradespeople, caregivers, and retirees.
(314) 876-6385 View (314) 876-6385

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sandra Obiebi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sandra Obiebi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Sandra Obiebi, DNP, PMHNP-BC. Dr. Sandra Obiebi is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Southern Illinois University, Illinois, and is licensed to practice in Illinois, Missouri, and New Mexico. Dr. Obiebi has extensive experience providing psychiatric care in both outpatient and inpatient settings. As a PMHNP, she assesses, diagnoses, and treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Sandra Obiebi, DNP, PMHNP-BC. Dr. Sandra Obiebi is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Southern Illinois University, Illinois, and is licensed to practice in Illinois, Missouri, and New Mexico. Dr. Obiebi has extensive experience providing psychiatric care in both outpatient and inpatient settings. As a PMHNP, she assesses, diagnoses, and treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
(323) 274-1578 View (323) 274-1578
Photo of Celeste Herleth, Psychiatrist, MD
Celeste Herleth
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
My patients could be struggling with a variety of mental health disorders—perhaps an eating disorder, anxiety, perfectionism, or burnout. Often, they’ve been high-functioning on the outside but struggling internally for years. They might have stressors like strained relationships, work pressure, or low self-esteem. They need a safe, nonjudgmental space where they feel heard, understood, and respected. They need evidence-based treatment about what’s happening in their mind and body, and collaborative guidance in creating realistic, sustainable changes.
My patients could be struggling with a variety of mental health disorders—perhaps an eating disorder, anxiety, perfectionism, or burnout. Often, they’ve been high-functioning on the outside but struggling internally for years. They might have stressors like strained relationships, work pressure, or low self-esteem. They need a safe, nonjudgmental space where they feel heard, understood, and respected. They need evidence-based treatment about what’s happening in their mind and body, and collaborative guidance in creating realistic, sustainable changes.
(314) 501-9220 View (314) 501-9220
Photo of Kelsey Kingsborough, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kelsey Kingsborough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, MO 63368
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health, I provide compassionate, personalized care focused on the whole person, not just symptoms. Every patient comes with a unique story, and my goal is to partner with you to create an individualized treatment plan that supports both your mental health and overall well-being. What truly sets my practice apart is listening. I believe healing starts with being heard. I prioritize understanding your concerns before moving forward, and I make sure you feel informed and empowered every step of the way.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health, I provide compassionate, personalized care focused on the whole person, not just symptoms. Every patient comes with a unique story, and my goal is to partner with you to create an individualized treatment plan that supports both your mental health and overall well-being. What truly sets my practice apart is listening. I believe healing starts with being heard. I prioritize understanding your concerns before moving forward, and I make sure you feel informed and empowered every step of the way.
(636) 303-1023 View (636) 303-1023
Photo of Tabitha Kennedy-Sleeper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Tabitha Kennedy-Sleeper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that every person deserves to feel heard, understood, and empowered throughout their mental health journey. I take time to understand each person’s unique experiences, goals, strengths, and challenges before developing a personalized treatment plan. I strive to create a welcoming, respectful environment where patients feel comfortable discussing difficult topics without fear of judgment. My goal is not only to reduce symptoms but also to improve overall quality of life, strengthen resilience, and help patients develop the skills and confidence needed to achieve lasting wellness. I look forward to partnering with you.
I believe that every person deserves to feel heard, understood, and empowered throughout their mental health journey. I take time to understand each person’s unique experiences, goals, strengths, and challenges before developing a personalized treatment plan. I strive to create a welcoming, respectful environment where patients feel comfortable discussing difficult topics without fear of judgment. My goal is not only to reduce symptoms but also to improve overall quality of life, strengthen resilience, and help patients develop the skills and confidence needed to achieve lasting wellness. I look forward to partnering with you.
(314) 403-8738 View (314) 403-8738
Photo of Britney Kneibert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Britney Kneibert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Hello! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I work with both teens and adults.
Hello! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I work with both teens and adults.
(314) 370-2731 View (314) 370-2731
Dr. David Jiang
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Jiang is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy. His major goal is for treatment to be patient centered, with a focus on high quality, evidence-based care in the safest and most meaningful way.
Dr. Jiang is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. His practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy. His major goal is for treatment to be patient centered, with a focus on high quality, evidence-based care in the safest and most meaningful way.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Kelsey Lonergan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CPNP
Kelsey Lonergan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CPNP
Online Only
Many adults across Missouri seek psychiatric care when symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or mood-related conditions begin affecting their daily lives. Patients often come to Journey Psyche looking for clear answers, practical treatment options, and a provider who will take the time to understand their concerns. I work with adults throughout the state to provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and personalized treatment plans that support long-term progress and stability.
Many adults across Missouri seek psychiatric care when symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or mood-related conditions begin affecting their daily lives. Patients often come to Journey Psyche looking for clear answers, practical treatment options, and a provider who will take the time to understand their concerns. I work with adults throughout the state to provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and personalized treatment plans that support long-term progress and stability.
(314) 310-5473 View (314) 310-5473
Photo of Ornela Ika, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ornela Ika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I’m Ornela Ika, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment for individuals facing mental health challenges. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and trauma. I work with patients across the spectrum of mental health disorders, with a strong focus on bipolar and depressive disorders. My goal is to provide tailored, compassionate care to help individuals navigate their unique challenges.
Hello, I’m Ornela Ika, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment for individuals facing mental health challenges. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and trauma. I work with patients across the spectrum of mental health disorders, with a strong focus on bipolar and depressive disorders. My goal is to provide tailored, compassionate care to help individuals navigate their unique challenges.
(636) 556-8328 View (636) 556-8328
Photo of Angela Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Angela Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood changes that may benefit from medication support? As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Angela provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management tailored to your needs. Her approach is collaborative and evidence-based, focusing on symptom relief, stability, and long-term wellness. She works closely with you to develop and adjust a treatment plan that supports your goals and improves daily functioning. Schedule an appointment today to take the next step toward feeling better.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood changes that may benefit from medication support? As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Angela provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management tailored to your needs. Her approach is collaborative and evidence-based, focusing on symptom relief, stability, and long-term wellness. She works closely with you to develop and adjust a treatment plan that supports your goals and improves daily functioning. Schedule an appointment today to take the next step toward feeling better.
(314) 912-1156 View (314) 912-1156
Photo of Justin R. Lovelady, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Justin R. Lovelady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Saint Peters, MO 63376
As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment in which individuals from diverse backgrounds feel heard, respected, and supported. I believe that meaningful healing is rooted in authentic connection, and I strive to engage each client with compassion, curiosity, and without judgment.
As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment in which individuals from diverse backgrounds feel heard, respected, and supported. I believe that meaningful healing is rooted in authentic connection, and I strive to engage each client with compassion, curiosity, and without judgment.
(636) 477-6464 View (636) 477-6464
Photo of Dr. Ryan Sondergard, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Ryan Sondergard
Psychiatrist, DO
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Dr. Sondergard treats adults, with particular expertise in treating depression and in managing anxiety disorders without chronic use of benzodiazepines. He also has extensive experience in the treatment of bipolar disorder and trauma-related conditions, including PTSD. His clinical approach is grounded in both medical expertise and genuine compassion, ensuring that every patient feels understood and supported throughout their mental health journey. Patients can rely on his comprehensive knowledge of psychiatric medications and his commitment to integrating current research into effective, individualized treatment strategies.
Dr. Sondergard treats adults, with particular expertise in treating depression and in managing anxiety disorders without chronic use of benzodiazepines. He also has extensive experience in the treatment of bipolar disorder and trauma-related conditions, including PTSD. His clinical approach is grounded in both medical expertise and genuine compassion, ensuring that every patient feels understood and supported throughout their mental health journey. Patients can rely on his comprehensive knowledge of psychiatric medications and his commitment to integrating current research into effective, individualized treatment strategies.
(314) 907-1025 View (314) 907-1025
Photo of Jelya Ingrid Fatawu, Psychiatric Nurse
Jelya Ingrid Fatawu
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals to achieve lasting mental wellness. I work with adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, OCD, and addiction, helping them build resilience and restore balance in their daily lives.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals to achieve lasting mental wellness. I work with adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, OCD, and addiction, helping them build resilience and restore balance in their daily lives.
(314) 582-9796 View (314) 582-9796
Photo of Stephanie Sutherland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Sutherland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience working with adults across the lifespan, including those with complex mental health needs. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, mood instability, and personality-related challenges using a thoughtful, individualized approach. I believe in collaboration and shared decision-making, and I respect each client’s preferences around therapy, medication, or a combination of both. My goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your care.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience working with adults across the lifespan, including those with complex mental health needs. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, mood instability, and personality-related challenges using a thoughtful, individualized approach. I believe in collaboration and shared decision-making, and I respect each client’s preferences around therapy, medication, or a combination of both. My goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your care.
(660) 300-6421 View (660) 300-6421
Photo of Madelyn Hindia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hi there, I'm Madelyn! I am an MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management for adults, teens, and children. My focus is on providing compassionate, personalized care that empowers patients to take an active role in their mental health. I believe in a patient-centered approach where treatment is tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. I use evidence-based strategies while also considering holistic options when appropriate. My goal is to partner with patients, helping them feel heard, understood, and supported.
Hi there, I'm Madelyn! I am an MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management for adults, teens, and children. My focus is on providing compassionate, personalized care that empowers patients to take an active role in their mental health. I believe in a patient-centered approach where treatment is tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. I use evidence-based strategies while also considering holistic options when appropriate. My goal is to partner with patients, helping them feel heard, understood, and supported.
(951) 744-1890 View (951) 744-1890
Photo of M Susan Dawson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, PMHNP
M Susan Dawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Susan Dawson is a board certified clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner in adult psychiatry ages 18-90. Clients with mental illness, ADHD, substance use concerns and behavioral issues related to autism or developmental delay may find her approach useful to their health and well being. There is no label-depression, bipolar or anxiety-that cannot be supported within life's complications.
Dr. Susan Dawson is a board certified clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner in adult psychiatry ages 18-90. Clients with mental illness, ADHD, substance use concerns and behavioral issues related to autism or developmental delay may find her approach useful to their health and well being. There is no label-depression, bipolar or anxiety-that cannot be supported within life's complications.
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Photo of Tamara Runge, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Tamara Runge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients’ unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri. She also has the ability to see patients from home via telehealth services.
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients’ unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri. She also has the ability to see patients from home via telehealth services.
(314) 626-8235 View (314) 626-8235

See more therapy options for Florissant

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Florissant, MO

< 10

Psychiatrists in Florissant, MO who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
75% Depression
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management
75% Self-Harming

Average years in practice

31 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in Florissant, MO see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Florissant?

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.