Psychiatrists in Belgrade, MT

Photo of Jessica Rivera, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
(406) 356-0595 View (406) 356-0595
Photo of Samantha Reed, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belgrade, MT 59714
Samantha started in patient care over a decade ago, before pursuing a degree in Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In 2017, Samantha began working in Public Health Nursing, focusing on care for families with infants and children. It was in her role in public health that she realized the depth of how health disparity is driven by social and economic inequities. Samantha earned her Doctorate Degree as a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Montana State University in 2023.
Samantha started in patient care over a decade ago, before pursuing a degree in Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In 2017, Samantha began working in Public Health Nursing, focusing on care for families with infants and children. It was in her role in public health that she realized the depth of how health disparity is driven by social and economic inequities. Samantha earned her Doctorate Degree as a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Montana State University in 2023.
(406) 720-8238 View (406) 720-8238
Photo of Erin Amato - Montana Psychiatry & Brain Health Center, MD, Psychiatrist
Montana Psychiatry & Brain Health Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Alexis Anderson, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Alexis Anderson
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Boutique Holistic Therapy and Psychiatry For Women. As a psychiatrist based in Bozeman, I offer an integrative approach to mental health, blending psychotherapeutic modalities, bespoke psychiatric guidance, and wellness practices. I take a comprehensive, multidimensional approach to women’s mental health, deeply honoring the intricate and dynamic interconnectedness between the body, mind, and spirit. Mental health challenges often arise from subtle imbalances across these interconnected dimensions, and together, we embark on a journey to uncover their root causes.
Boutique Holistic Therapy and Psychiatry For Women. As a psychiatrist based in Bozeman, I offer an integrative approach to mental health, blending psychotherapeutic modalities, bespoke psychiatric guidance, and wellness practices. I take a comprehensive, multidimensional approach to women’s mental health, deeply honoring the intricate and dynamic interconnectedness between the body, mind, and spirit. Mental health challenges often arise from subtle imbalances across these interconnected dimensions, and together, we embark on a journey to uncover their root causes.
(406) 589-2402 View (406) 589-2402
Photo of Carol Milliken, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, ADHD-SP, CFTP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carol Milliken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, ADHD-SP, CFTP
Verified Verified
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 Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
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 Lisa M Turk, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa M Turk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Montana Patients! ANCC Board Certified in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner; Family Nurse Practitioner Specializes in Mental Health and bringing you and your family peace of mind with medication management. Get personalized mental healthcare from a real person with just a click of a button. Lisa has decades of professional experience in the medical field and ingrained affinity for providing consistent care for the emotional & physical well-being of her patients. With her Native heritage and passion for caring for her fellow Montanans.
Accepting New Montana Patients! ANCC Board Certified in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner; Family Nurse Practitioner Specializes in Mental Health and bringing you and your family peace of mind with medication management. Get personalized mental healthcare from a real person with just a click of a button. Lisa has decades of professional experience in the medical field and ingrained affinity for providing consistent care for the emotional & physical well-being of her patients. With her Native heritage and passion for caring for her fellow Montanans.
(406) 747-0404 View (406) 747-0404
Photo of Heidi Geil - Optimize Psychiatry, LLC, DO, Psychiatrist
Optimize Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Optimize Psychiatry offers a modern & natural approach to psychiatry that is Personalized, Holistic, Functional & Scientifically Informed. We take a root-cause analytic approach to each client's unique biochemistry, genetics & psychological factors and work to align physiology, neurology, and psychodynamics by incorporating insights from various disciplines within and outside of medicine. Our goal is always to help you retrieve or discover your Optimized Self through insight and future-driven change designed to improve your health across life domains and aligned with your deepest values. (More details at optimizepsychiatry.com)
Optimize Psychiatry offers a modern & natural approach to psychiatry that is Personalized, Holistic, Functional & Scientifically Informed. We take a root-cause analytic approach to each client's unique biochemistry, genetics & psychological factors and work to align physiology, neurology, and psychodynamics by incorporating insights from various disciplines within and outside of medicine. Our goal is always to help you retrieve or discover your Optimized Self through insight and future-driven change designed to improve your health across life domains and aligned with your deepest values. (More details at optimizepsychiatry.com)
Photo of Allison Sears, BSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Sears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Allison is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained her master’s degree from Gonzaga University. During her eight years of acute-care experience, she participated in forming the Psychiatric Stabilization Unit at Billings Clinic and worked on the in-patient units providing therapeutic care to patients across the lifespan. Allison now enjoys working out-patient to help clients manage their symptoms and enjoy their ideal quality of life. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and holistic services. Allison specializes in medication management of psychiatric disorders.
Allison is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained her master’s degree from Gonzaga University. During her eight years of acute-care experience, she participated in forming the Psychiatric Stabilization Unit at Billings Clinic and worked on the in-patient units providing therapeutic care to patients across the lifespan. Allison now enjoys working out-patient to help clients manage their symptoms and enjoy their ideal quality of life. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and holistic services. Allison specializes in medication management of psychiatric disorders.
(406) 702-1466 View (406) 702-1466
Photo of Fraser Ball - Ouroboros Mental Health , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ouroboros Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Dr. Theresa Clark, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Theresa Clark
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Ten Mile Health and Wellness, the offices of Dr. Theresa Clark, MD. This online physician only practice focuses on providing high quality, individualized psychiatric care in a safe and caring environment. Evidence based medication management, psychotherapy and diet/lifestyle changes are involved in all evaluations.
Welcome to Ten Mile Health and Wellness, the offices of Dr. Theresa Clark, MD. This online physician only practice focuses on providing high quality, individualized psychiatric care in a safe and caring environment. Evidence based medication management, psychotherapy and diet/lifestyle changes are involved in all evaluations.
(406) 719-6718 View (406) 719-6718
Photo of Holly L Gomez Levine - At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
Photo of Ashley Cooper, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients for medication management! My ideal client is someone struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD, seeking the right medications to improve their mental health. They may feel overwhelmed or stuck in their symptoms and are looking for a tailored treatment plan to regain balance and stability. Together, we’ll find the right medications to help them feel better and achieve lasting improvements. Let’s work together to get you on the path to better mental well-being.
Accepting new patients for medication management! My ideal client is someone struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD, seeking the right medications to improve their mental health. They may feel overwhelmed or stuck in their symptoms and are looking for a tailored treatment plan to regain balance and stability. Together, we’ll find the right medications to help them feel better and achieve lasting improvements. Let’s work together to get you on the path to better mental well-being.
(406) 313-8279 View (406) 313-8279
Photo of Michele Tulk, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michele Tulk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Schedule online today via my website - evening and weekend visits available. I have 12 years of experience prescribing mental health medications as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am kind, safe, non-judgmental, and empathic. My style is client-centered where I function as a guide to help us find a sustainable medication regimen that you feel good about. I absolutely LOVE what I do.
Schedule online today via my website - evening and weekend visits available. I have 12 years of experience prescribing mental health medications as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am kind, safe, non-judgmental, and empathic. My style is client-centered where I function as a guide to help us find a sustainable medication regimen that you feel good about. I absolutely LOVE what I do.
(406) 476-7376 View (406) 476-7376
Photo of Wade G Hill, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wade G Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
I offer complete psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children over 6 years of age and adults.
I offer complete psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children over 6 years of age and adults.
(406) 637-4483 View (406) 637-4483
Photo of Richard Mitchell, DO, MS, Psychiatrist
Richard Mitchell
Psychiatrist, DO, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
NOW credentialed with Montana Medicaid, BCBS MT, Allegiance, United Behavioral Health, and First Choice Health Network! Accepting new telepsychiatry clients in Montana! Dr. Mitchell utilizes a BioPsychoSocial approach and provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and laboratory monitoring as needed.
NOW credentialed with Montana Medicaid, BCBS MT, Allegiance, United Behavioral Health, and First Choice Health Network! Accepting new telepsychiatry clients in Montana! Dr. Mitchell utilizes a BioPsychoSocial approach and provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and laboratory monitoring as needed.
(406) 770-2324 View (406) 770-2324
Photo of Rebecca Pogoda, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Pogoda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
With over 10 years of experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a specialized certification in Perinatal Mental Health, I am dedicated to supporting women, parents, and caregivers through the challenges of conception, pregnancy, and postpartum. I provide comprehensive evaluations, diagnoses, and tailored treatment options that integrate medication and therapy to effectively address mental health concerns.
With over 10 years of experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a specialized certification in Perinatal Mental Health, I am dedicated to supporting women, parents, and caregivers through the challenges of conception, pregnancy, and postpartum. I provide comprehensive evaluations, diagnoses, and tailored treatment options that integrate medication and therapy to effectively address mental health concerns.
(406) 612-6026 View (406) 612-6026
Photo of Allison Sears - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(406) 802-3800 View (406) 802-3800
Photo of Kimberly J Berndt, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly J Berndt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS VIA TELEHEALTH-EXPERIENCED MEDICATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR CHILDREN THROUGH ADULTS.......I work with my clients to create a logical and effective treatment plan by offering medication options, solution focused therapy, and other available resources to promote positive outcomes using a holistic approach. Please email me with any questions or to request an online intake form for appointment scheduling.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS VIA TELEHEALTH-EXPERIENCED MEDICATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR CHILDREN THROUGH ADULTS.......I work with my clients to create a logical and effective treatment plan by offering medication options, solution focused therapy, and other available resources to promote positive outcomes using a holistic approach. Please email me with any questions or to request an online intake form for appointment scheduling.
(406) 416-5310 View (406) 416-5310
Photo of Kathleen Johnson - Psychiatry 360, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatry 360
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
(406) 607-8634 View (406) 607-8634

See more therapy options for Belgrade

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Belgrade, MT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Belgrade, MT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
100% Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Belgrade, MT see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Belgrade?

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.