Psychiatrists in Jackson County, MO

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Photo of Moses Tabe Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
(573) 269-3946 View (573) 269-3946
Photo of Kelly J Neland - Reflections Health Services, LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reflections Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
(816) 744-1903 View (816) 744-1903
Photo of Vilash Reddy - One Life Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
One Life Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Dr. Vilash Reddy, M.D. I grew up in California and trained at Washington University in St. Louis. I specialize in treating children aged 6 and older in Missouri and Kansas exclusively via telehealth appointments. My average wait time for new patients is 3 weeks. I diagnose and treat a range of developmental, behavioral, and mood disorders. I offer medication management as well as therapy and I believe in using holistic, natural remedies whenever possible. I treat ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, autism, intellectual disability, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc
My name is Dr. Vilash Reddy, M.D. I grew up in California and trained at Washington University in St. Louis. I specialize in treating children aged 6 and older in Missouri and Kansas exclusively via telehealth appointments. My average wait time for new patients is 3 weeks. I diagnose and treat a range of developmental, behavioral, and mood disorders. I offer medication management as well as therapy and I believe in using holistic, natural remedies whenever possible. I treat ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, autism, intellectual disability, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc
(816) 578-0985 View (816) 578-0985
Photo of Francis U. Okafor, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francis U. Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I came to the United States of America in 1997. In 2001, I joined the US Army where I served as a medic for 8 years. After my military service, I decided to go to Nursing School. I graduated with my MSN from Walden University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. "My passion for Psychiatric nursing is born out of my desire to assist vulnerable individuals attain possible health and independence through medication management and support."
I came to the United States of America in 1997. In 2001, I joined the US Army where I served as a medic for 8 years. After my military service, I decided to go to Nursing School. I graduated with my MSN from Walden University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. "My passion for Psychiatric nursing is born out of my desire to assist vulnerable individuals attain possible health and independence through medication management and support."
(816) 209-1058 View (816) 209-1058
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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Photo of Cynthia Ruth Heck, DNP , PMHNP-, BC, LPC-, NCC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Ruth Heck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-, BC, LPC-, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64057
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I, too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I, too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
(816) 203-0571 View (816) 203-0571
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Charles Ray Lake, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Charles Ray Lake
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64113
Voted Top Doctor of Psychiatry in 435 Magazine, 2019 through 2022 by doctors. Will answer & schedule your appointment within 48 hrs. I listen, am non-judgmental & help you gain self-esteem, exercise better choices & increase your happy hours. I have MD & PhD degrees from Duke University, when MD's were taught to treat with psychotherapy as well as medications when warranted. As Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at KU, School of Medicine I've published widely about depression, bipolar & anxiety disorders, panic, OCD & PTSD. Will conduct sessions with FaceTime or Zoom. Probably out of network, NO insurance accepted.
Voted Top Doctor of Psychiatry in 435 Magazine, 2019 through 2022 by doctors. Will answer & schedule your appointment within 48 hrs. I listen, am non-judgmental & help you gain self-esteem, exercise better choices & increase your happy hours. I have MD & PhD degrees from Duke University, when MD's were taught to treat with psychotherapy as well as medications when warranted. As Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at KU, School of Medicine I've published widely about depression, bipolar & anxiety disorders, panic, OCD & PTSD. Will conduct sessions with FaceTime or Zoom. Probably out of network, NO insurance accepted.
(816) 399-2295 View (816) 399-2295
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Madelyn Hindia, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck—whether it’s due to overwhelming worry, persistent sadness, struggles with focus, or difficulty navigating relationships. They are seeking clarity, relief, and tools to regain control over their life. My clients often want to feel calmer, more confident, and connected to themselves and others. They come to me because they value a provider who listens, cares deeply, and offers practical solutions tailored to their unique needs. Their goal is to find lasting relief and rediscover their inner strength, and my goal is to help them get there.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck—whether it’s due to overwhelming worry, persistent sadness, struggles with focus, or difficulty navigating relationships. They are seeking clarity, relief, and tools to regain control over their life. My clients often want to feel calmer, more confident, and connected to themselves and others. They come to me because they value a provider who listens, cares deeply, and offers practical solutions tailored to their unique needs. Their goal is to find lasting relief and rediscover their inner strength, and my goal is to help them get there.
(816) 396-7531 View (816) 396-7531
Photo of Madelyn Hindia, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
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 Hiten Soni, MD, Psychiatrist
Hiten Soni
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
(785) 333-3959 View (785) 333-3959
Photo of Amanda Murphy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
I believe that psychiatric nurse practitioners have the unique opportunity to provide care that is built upon forming a relationship with the patient. Psychiatric illnesses are complex and require careful assessment that takes into consideration the biological, psychological, social, and developmental aspects of the patient's life.
I believe that psychiatric nurse practitioners have the unique opportunity to provide care that is built upon forming a relationship with the patient. Psychiatric illnesses are complex and require careful assessment that takes into consideration the biological, psychological, social, and developmental aspects of the patient's life.
(913) 243-2570 View (913) 243-2570
Photo of Sonni Elliott - Sunrise Psychiatry -TMS Center, MD, Psychiatrist
Sunrise Psychiatry -TMS Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
Ask yourself these questions.... Do you have difficulty trying to treat Depression? Tried multiple meds which have failed or been difficult to tolerate? Want an option for depression treatment other than medications? Want to lower the number of medications long term? Have a continued goal of quality of life improvement or possible remission from Depression? If so, consider TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
Ask yourself these questions.... Do you have difficulty trying to treat Depression? Tried multiple meds which have failed or been difficult to tolerate? Want an option for depression treatment other than medications? Want to lower the number of medications long term? Have a continued goal of quality of life improvement or possible remission from Depression? If so, consider TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
(913) 404-8677 View (913) 404-8677
Photo of Brandon Brewer, MD, Psychiatrist
Brandon Brewer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW patients! I am a physician psychiatrist with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. This means that I have a well-rounded view of the various factors influencing your mental health. I evaluate and treat mental health issues in children, adolescents and adults. I conduct short psychotherapy sessions during encounters with my patients. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
Accepting NEW patients! I am a physician psychiatrist with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. This means that I have a well-rounded view of the various factors influencing your mental health. I evaluate and treat mental health issues in children, adolescents and adults. I conduct short psychotherapy sessions during encounters with my patients. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
(573) 363-2199 View (573) 363-2199
Photo of Silverus Kimeli, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Silverus Kimeli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
I am a dual board certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science Nursing from The University of Oklahoma in 2006. I have worked in several acute mental care units and critical care units prior to pursuing graduate studies. I received my Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati in 2019 and Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) from Saginaw Valley State University in 2021.
I am a dual board certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science Nursing from The University of Oklahoma in 2006. I have worked in several acute mental care units and critical care units prior to pursuing graduate studies. I received my Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati in 2019 and Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) from Saginaw Valley State University in 2021.
(913) 808-3179 View (913) 808-3179
Photo of Dr. Femi Popoola, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Femi Popoola
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
(573) 279-2951 View (573) 279-2951
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Francis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Elizabeth Francis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101
I graduated with my Masters in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialty and Doctorate in Nursing (DNP) degrees from Duke University, ranked the best graduate nursing program in the country for the last 4 years. I am an APNA board member in the Kansas state chapter, have published research in the Journal of Emergency Nurses, and am adjunct faculty in Duke's graduate nursing program. I provide evidence-based psychiatric care to help people achieve their goals. This includes creating an empathetic, safe environment. Many patients value a treatment approach that is holistic and considers their unique needs.
I graduated with my Masters in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialty and Doctorate in Nursing (DNP) degrees from Duke University, ranked the best graduate nursing program in the country for the last 4 years. I am an APNA board member in the Kansas state chapter, have published research in the Journal of Emergency Nurses, and am adjunct faculty in Duke's graduate nursing program. I provide evidence-based psychiatric care to help people achieve their goals. This includes creating an empathetic, safe environment. Many patients value a treatment approach that is holistic and considers their unique needs.
(913) 386-5638 View (913) 386-5638
Photo of Yesenia Olmedo, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yesenia Olmedo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64145
Do you feel like your medication visits feel rushed? Are you tired of not being considered as a WHOLE person, but being left with fragmented pieces? Do you often feel like your medications are being increased without understanding why or what exactly is the “game plan”? Unfortunately that is the experience of many people….. I will provide a holistic approach to care and take a collaborative approach with you to maximize your health outcomes. I am passionate about caring for the whole person, considering each person’s individual life experiences and cultural backgrounds.
Do you feel like your medication visits feel rushed? Are you tired of not being considered as a WHOLE person, but being left with fragmented pieces? Do you often feel like your medications are being increased without understanding why or what exactly is the “game plan”? Unfortunately that is the experience of many people….. I will provide a holistic approach to care and take a collaborative approach with you to maximize your health outcomes. I am passionate about caring for the whole person, considering each person’s individual life experiences and cultural backgrounds.
(913) 380-4856 View (913) 380-4856
Photo of Brayden Willis, DO, Psychiatrist
Brayden Willis
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
(816) 323-6124 View (816) 323-6124
1

See more therapy options for Jackson County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Jackson County, MO

30+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Jackson County, MO who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
74% Bipolar Disorder
74% Medication Management
65% ADHD
58% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
58% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Jackson County, MO see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Jackson County?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

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.