Psychiatrists in Montana

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Photo of Matthew Thompson, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Matthew Thompson
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients - Please reach out! Many people suffer with their mental health and often suffer needlessly.  I have been a psychiatrist since 2001 and have experience with many types of people, ages 18-118.  I think it's important to take a "life story" approach to get a sense of someone's needs and to be able to develop an effective treatment plan, often in coordination with therapists, primary care providers, and specialists.
Accepting New Clients - Please reach out! Many people suffer with their mental health and often suffer needlessly.  I have been a psychiatrist since 2001 and have experience with many types of people, ages 18-118.  I think it's important to take a "life story" approach to get a sense of someone's needs and to be able to develop an effective treatment plan, often in coordination with therapists, primary care providers, and specialists.
(406) 344-7915 View (406) 344-7915
Photo of Cheyenne Feltz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Cheyenne Feltz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Big Sandy, MT 59520
Currently accepting new patients! It is my goal as a mental health provider to provide an accessible and welcoming environment for each individual that comes into my office. I provide in-person and telehealth options to assure that everyone has a comfortable way to access care. I have experience assisting adolescent, teenage, and adult patients in their treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis, Schizophrenia, Addiction, Insomnia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Eating Disorders, and many other conditions.
Currently accepting new patients! It is my goal as a mental health provider to provide an accessible and welcoming environment for each individual that comes into my office. I provide in-person and telehealth options to assure that everyone has a comfortable way to access care. I have experience assisting adolescent, teenage, and adult patients in their treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis, Schizophrenia, Addiction, Insomnia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Eating Disorders, and many other conditions.
(406) 378-2188 View (406) 378-2188
Photo of Angela Schell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Angela Schell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59802
Not accepting new clients
Angela is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner serving individuals in the state of Montana. Prior to graduating Montana State University with a doctoral degree in psychiatric/mental health nursing practice, Angela worked as an acute care psychiatric nurse within Montana's largest health care system. Through this experience, Angela developed an interest in caring for individuals with comorbid psychiatric and substance abuse issues.
Angela is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner serving individuals in the state of Montana. Prior to graduating Montana State University with a doctoral degree in psychiatric/mental health nursing practice, Angela worked as an acute care psychiatric nurse within Montana's largest health care system. Through this experience, Angela developed an interest in caring for individuals with comorbid psychiatric and substance abuse issues.
(406) 272-8178 View (406) 272-8178
Photo of Anu Marrott-Ware, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-L, RN
Anu Marrott-Ware
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-L, RN
Online Only
Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.
Anu specializes in telepsychiatry, offering a convenient and comfortable way to receive care from your own home. Her ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, stress, or other mental health challenges and prefers the flexibility and privacy of online appointments. Life can be busy, so Anu offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Whether you're balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, telepsychiatry allows you to access care without the added stress of travel or time constraints.
(406) 642-7377 View (406) 642-7377
Photo of Carol Milliken, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, ADHD-SP, CFTP
Carol Milliken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, ADHD-SP, CFTP
Online Only
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, an ADHD-certified clinical services provider, certified in family trauma therapy, emergency, critical care nursing and am a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, an ADHD-certified clinical services provider, certified in family trauma therapy, emergency, critical care nursing and am a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.
(406) 623-7720 View (406) 623-7720
Photo of Fraser Ball - Ouroboros Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ouroboros Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
Fraser Ball obtained her Bachelor's of Science in Nursing in 2017 from Montana State University. While working at Vanderbilt Medical Center, she realized that her true passion was in mental health. She graduated with her Master's of Science in Nursing in 2023 from University of North Dakota, and became a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Fraser Ball obtained her Bachelor's of Science in Nursing in 2017 from Montana State University. While working at Vanderbilt Medical Center, she realized that her true passion was in mental health. She graduated with her Master's of Science in Nursing in 2023 from University of North Dakota, and became a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(406) 812-7836 View (406) 812-7836
Photo of Shannon Scally - SPMH & Scally Health and Wellness PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SPMH & Scally Health and Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Missoula, MT 59804
As board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, we work to engage in a unique therapeutic relationship. Our focus is to perform a thorough assessment, diagnosis and evaluation to provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy using a collaborative approach. Overall, we welcome you to come as you are and together we can reach your mental health goals. Mental health care is an essential piece of overall health.
As board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, we work to engage in a unique therapeutic relationship. Our focus is to perform a thorough assessment, diagnosis and evaluation to provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy using a collaborative approach. Overall, we welcome you to come as you are and together we can reach your mental health goals. Mental health care is an essential piece of overall health.
(406) 510-2782 View (406) 510-2782
Photo of Joseph Knoble, Psychiatrist, MD
Joseph Knoble
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients! - For me, care starts with the values and goals of my patients and families so that we can develop collaborative solutions spanning beyond what medications can do alone. Through my training with multi-cultural and Eastern practices, I believe in working with a holistic, transparent approach that carefully incorporates medications or supplements to help support lasting change. Before working with my child, adolescent, and adult clients with Frontier Psychiatry, I worked as the Chief Psychiatry Fellow at the Yale Child Study Center in Connecticut.
Currently accepting new clients! - For me, care starts with the values and goals of my patients and families so that we can develop collaborative solutions spanning beyond what medications can do alone. Through my training with multi-cultural and Eastern practices, I believe in working with a holistic, transparent approach that carefully incorporates medications or supplements to help support lasting change. Before working with my child, adolescent, and adult clients with Frontier Psychiatry, I worked as the Chief Psychiatry Fellow at the Yale Child Study Center in Connecticut.
(406) 802-5026 View (406) 802-5026
Photo of Janelle Arias, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Janelle Arias
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients: Navigating mental health concerns as a young person—or as a parent—can be incredibly challenging. I’m Dr. Janelle Arias, a board-certified psychiatrist in both general and child/adolescent psychiatry with Frontier Psychiatry, and I’m here to offer thoughtful, compassionate support grounded in evidence-based care. I’ve dedicated my career to working with children, teens, and their families, helping them manage a wide range of mental health challenges. I completed my fellowship at the Yale Child Study Center, and for over a decade, I provided trauma-informed care in a residential DBT program for teens.
Currently accepting new clients: Navigating mental health concerns as a young person—or as a parent—can be incredibly challenging. I’m Dr. Janelle Arias, a board-certified psychiatrist in both general and child/adolescent psychiatry with Frontier Psychiatry, and I’m here to offer thoughtful, compassionate support grounded in evidence-based care. I’ve dedicated my career to working with children, teens, and their families, helping them manage a wide range of mental health challenges. I completed my fellowship at the Yale Child Study Center, and for over a decade, I provided trauma-informed care in a residential DBT program for teens.
(406) 506-5790 View (406) 506-5790
Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Montana state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99, Counseling $89-$129. Also accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Montana state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99, Counseling $89-$129. Also accepting some insurances.
(406) 318-8178 View (406) 318-8178
Photo of Carly Hatfield - Carly Hatfield APRN, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Carly Hatfield APRN, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Missoula, MT 59802
My goal is to provide patient driven care that focuses on your primary concerns. I utilize psychiatric medication and education in order to care for you in a holistic manner. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship through active listening and understanding. I see myself as someone who is here to help you accomplish your goals.
My goal is to provide patient driven care that focuses on your primary concerns. I utilize psychiatric medication and education in order to care for you in a holistic manner. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship through active listening and understanding. I see myself as someone who is here to help you accomplish your goals.
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Photo of Sarah Niese, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Sarah Niese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Kalispell, MT 59901
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients ages 7 and up. I see clients both in person and telemedicine to allow the most comfortable space for you. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic testing and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer medical weight loss services that are designed not only to address physical health concerns but also to foster mental wellness.
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients ages 7 and up. I see clients both in person and telemedicine to allow the most comfortable space for you. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic testing and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer medical weight loss services that are designed not only to address physical health concerns but also to foster mental wellness.
(406) 296-5431 View (406) 296-5431
Photo of Erin Amato - Montana Psychiatry & Brain Health Center, Psychiatrist, MD
We are dedicated to serving the mental health needs of pediatric and adult patients in our region. We aim to provide compassionate, thoughtful and comprehensive care by using an integrative approach that focuses on biological, psychological, and social factors that are unique to each patient. We provide Medication Management, TMS Therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato, Psychological Testing, and Therapy services across the state of Montana. Whatever your mental health needs are, our team at Montana Psychiatry will provide exemplary care to put you on the path to healing and enriched living.
We are dedicated to serving the mental health needs of pediatric and adult patients in our region. We aim to provide compassionate, thoughtful and comprehensive care by using an integrative approach that focuses on biological, psychological, and social factors that are unique to each patient. We provide Medication Management, TMS Therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato, Psychological Testing, and Therapy services across the state of Montana. Whatever your mental health needs are, our team at Montana Psychiatry will provide exemplary care to put you on the path to healing and enriched living.
(406) 630-7955 View (406) 630-7955
Photo of Nicole Faessel - Bellathia Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMHC
Bellathia Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMHC
Online Only
***Accepting NEW PATIENTS in Montana*****SCHEDULE DIRECTLY at www.bellathiapsychiatry.com****** I can provide psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluation, medication management, laboratory monitoring, follow up care, and referrals as needed. You are important and so is your self care! I'm here to help. I have several years of diverse experience in education and nursing. My goal is to help you understand why you are feeling this way and how we can work together towards meeting your needs.
***Accepting NEW PATIENTS in Montana*****SCHEDULE DIRECTLY at www.bellathiapsychiatry.com****** I can provide psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluation, medication management, laboratory monitoring, follow up care, and referrals as needed. You are important and so is your self care! I'm here to help. I have several years of diverse experience in education and nursing. My goal is to help you understand why you are feeling this way and how we can work together towards meeting your needs.
(406) 534-7769 View (406) 534-7769
Photo of Alison Hall, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHS
Alison Hall
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MHS
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Alison Hall, PA-C, MHS, is a licensed Physician Assistant with over twenty-four years of clinical experience as a Primary Care/Internal Medicine practitioner. She graduated from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut with a Masters in Health Science and Physician Studies in 1999. After using alternative medicine practices to heal herself from several autoimmune conditions, Alison began using these same practices to facilitate her clients to heal. She has studied Internal Family Systems, holotropic breathing and mindfulness, believing that these practices are a part of physical, emotional and psychological well-being.
Alison Hall, PA-C, MHS, is a licensed Physician Assistant with over twenty-four years of clinical experience as a Primary Care/Internal Medicine practitioner. She graduated from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut with a Masters in Health Science and Physician Studies in 1999. After using alternative medicine practices to heal herself from several autoimmune conditions, Alison began using these same practices to facilitate her clients to heal. She has studied Internal Family Systems, holotropic breathing and mindfulness, believing that these practices are a part of physical, emotional and psychological well-being.
(406) 991-4286 View (406) 991-4286
Photo of Dessye-Dee Clark, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
Dessye-Dee Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
Missoula, MT 59802
Are you creative, entrepreneurial, but struggle with focus, impulsivity, and productivity? Social anxiety and assertiveness? Would you like to optimize your potential and begin to do things that are meaningful and sustainable? Do you need somebody with expertise in psychopharmacology, who truly cares about your welfare, who will work closely with you and your primary therapist? Do you know a child or teen that needs urgent psychiatric assessment or stabilization after hospitalization? We understand developmental needs, neurosensory sensitivities, learning differences. We provide Trauma-informed care, always.
Are you creative, entrepreneurial, but struggle with focus, impulsivity, and productivity? Social anxiety and assertiveness? Would you like to optimize your potential and begin to do things that are meaningful and sustainable? Do you need somebody with expertise in psychopharmacology, who truly cares about your welfare, who will work closely with you and your primary therapist? Do you know a child or teen that needs urgent psychiatric assessment or stabilization after hospitalization? We understand developmental needs, neurosensory sensitivities, learning differences. We provide Trauma-informed care, always.
(406) 412-6934 View (406) 412-6934
Photo of Kristel Kishbaugh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Kristel Kishbaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Montana City, MT 59634
Good health includes both physical and mental health which is why I believe a holistic perspective is key. I became an RN in 2008 and later, in 2016, I completed a Masters in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership later graduating with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2022.
Good health includes both physical and mental health which is why I believe a holistic perspective is key. I became an RN in 2008 and later, in 2016, I completed a Masters in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership later graduating with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2022.
(406) 416-4963 View (406) 416-4963
Photo of Erin Marie Huston - Huston Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Huston Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Helena, MT 59601
Erin (Ferriter) Huston grew up in a large family in Montana City and was involved in many sports activities. Erin attended Carroll College and was employed as a nurse in various psychiatric settings. After 10 years of pediatric and psychiatric nursing, Erin decided to attend Montana State University to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner. This position has allowed Erin to work in a different role/setting with patients. Ultimately, Erin has learned that teamwork and trust are integral to patient growth. It is rewarding as a provider to experience these positive changes.
Erin (Ferriter) Huston grew up in a large family in Montana City and was involved in many sports activities. Erin attended Carroll College and was employed as a nurse in various psychiatric settings. After 10 years of pediatric and psychiatric nursing, Erin decided to attend Montana State University to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner. This position has allowed Erin to work in a different role/setting with patients. Ultimately, Erin has learned that teamwork and trust are integral to patient growth. It is rewarding as a provider to experience these positive changes.
(406) 709-5815 View (406) 709-5815
Photo of Andie Macdonald - Integrative Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Integrative Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Billings, MT 59105
Here at Integrative Mental Health Services we work with clients of all backgrounds and specialize in the treatment of mental illness. We also offer Ketamine treatments to those who qualify. We have experience in medication management and value a patient-centered approach to healthcare and will work with clients to develop successful interventions.
Here at Integrative Mental Health Services we work with clients of all backgrounds and specialize in the treatment of mental illness. We also offer Ketamine treatments to those who qualify. We have experience in medication management and value a patient-centered approach to healthcare and will work with clients to develop successful interventions.
(406) 559-3942 View (406) 559-3942
Photo of Jen Buscher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jen Buscher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59106
Accepting new clients! I specialize in medication management for children and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. I also specialize in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders as a way to support both the health of a birthing individual and their child. My ideal client is someone who feels stuck or overwhelmed, struggling to manage their emotions or behavior. Their goal is to find the right treatment to improve their mental well-being and regain balance. I work closely with families to tailor medication plans and ensure lasting progress. Let’s work together to help you and your child thrive.
Accepting new clients! I specialize in medication management for children and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. I also specialize in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders as a way to support both the health of a birthing individual and their child. My ideal client is someone who feels stuck or overwhelmed, struggling to manage their emotions or behavior. Their goal is to find the right treatment to improve their mental well-being and regain balance. I work closely with families to tailor medication plans and ensure lasting progress. Let’s work together to help you and your child thrive.
(406) 642-7587 View (406) 642-7587

See more therapy options for Montana

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Montana who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
85% Trauma and PTSD
85% Medication Management
83% Bipolar Disorder
74% ADHD
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
70% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Montana see their clients

51% Online Only
49% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Montana?

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.