Psychiatrists in Billings, MT

Photo of Nick Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Nick Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Nick Taylor and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I contract with private practices and correctional facilities in the state of Montana to provide psychiatric medication management and treatment. If you are a practice owner seeking partnership opportunities contact me using the phone number provided. If you are a patient who is seeking treatment or medication management in Montana, you can contact me at (406) 272-2511.
My name is Nick Taylor and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I contract with private practices and correctional facilities in the state of Montana to provide psychiatric medication management and treatment. If you are a practice owner seeking partnership opportunities contact me using the phone number provided. If you are a patient who is seeking treatment or medication management in Montana, you can contact me at (406) 272-2511.
(406) 693-4362 View (406) 693-4362
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 Sarah Stockham Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Sarah Stockham Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD who are ready to feel better but aren’t sure where to start. You might feel stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite like yourself—and that’s okay. My goal is to create a personalized medication plan tailored to you, helping you feel more balanced, focused, and at peace. Let’s partner together to support your mental health and help you feel like yourself again.
I work with individuals facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD who are ready to feel better but aren’t sure where to start. You might feel stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite like yourself—and that’s okay. My goal is to create a personalized medication plan tailored to you, helping you feel more balanced, focused, and at peace. Let’s partner together to support your mental health and help you feel like yourself again.
(406) 501-6974 View (406) 501-6974
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Billings, MT 59102
100% ONLINE visits You travel around looking for a new provider every time you change states. You don't have time or want to call into an office, negotiate appointments with secretaries, drive in traffic, sit in a crowded waiting room, just to continue your medicine. We are licensed in 20 states and offer video visits from your computer or phone. Saturday and Sunday hours available. SCHEDULE today ONLINE: AtYourServicePsychiatry.com
100% ONLINE visits You travel around looking for a new provider every time you change states. You don't have time or want to call into an office, negotiate appointments with secretaries, drive in traffic, sit in a crowded waiting room, just to continue your medicine. We are licensed in 20 states and offer video visits from your computer or phone. Saturday and Sunday hours available. SCHEDULE today ONLINE: AtYourServicePsychiatry.com
View
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
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 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 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 Ashley Cooper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Ashley Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
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 Susan Finn - Holistic Healing Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-C, PMHNP
Holistic Healing Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I focus on the whole person, not a diagnosis. I take a trauma-informed approach my patients and look at mental illness as the result of the many difficult experiences that my patients have experienced. I understand the importance of lifestyle factors including the role of nutrition and exercise. In addition to prescribing psychiatric medications, I encourage my patients to utilize non-pharmacologic modalities including mindfulness techniques, supplements and herbal remedies.
I focus on the whole person, not a diagnosis. I take a trauma-informed approach my patients and look at mental illness as the result of the many difficult experiences that my patients have experienced. I understand the importance of lifestyle factors including the role of nutrition and exercise. In addition to prescribing psychiatric medications, I encourage my patients to utilize non-pharmacologic modalities including mindfulness techniques, supplements and herbal remedies.
(406) 470-8452 View (406) 470-8452
Photo of Sutina Kardas, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Sutina Kardas
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have openings to take new clients! I am a Psychiatry Physician Assistant working via telehealth. I am fluent in both English and Thai. I hold a certification of advanced qualification in psychiatry with many years of experience treating patients both in person and via telehealth. My evidence-based approach emphasizes medication management tailored to your individual needs with supportive therapy when needed. I also encourage a holistic approach to your care. I offer management for a wide range of diagnoses, including anxiety and depression, with a love for supporting women in the prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum period.
I have openings to take new clients! I am a Psychiatry Physician Assistant working via telehealth. I am fluent in both English and Thai. I hold a certification of advanced qualification in psychiatry with many years of experience treating patients both in person and via telehealth. My evidence-based approach emphasizes medication management tailored to your individual needs with supportive therapy when needed. I also encourage a holistic approach to your care. I offer management for a wide range of diagnoses, including anxiety and depression, with a love for supporting women in the prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum period.
(406) 964-5605 View (406) 964-5605
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 Svetlana Yakov, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Svetlana Yakov
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Billings, MT 59102
As a psychiatrist certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I make sure to stay on a top of modern knowledge in psychopharmacology and cutting edge psychiatric treatments. I am promptly available on phone 406-702-0795 for people with depression, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD. S-ketamine, FDA approved treatment provided to qualified patients in my clinic. My psychiatry residency training included managing patients with severe depression after receiving IV Ketamine for suicidal ideations and literature review with professor Shelton on visceral obesity in depression. I successfully apply this knowledge in my daily practice.
As a psychiatrist certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I make sure to stay on a top of modern knowledge in psychopharmacology and cutting edge psychiatric treatments. I am promptly available on phone 406-702-0795 for people with depression, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD. S-ketamine, FDA approved treatment provided to qualified patients in my clinic. My psychiatry residency training included managing patients with severe depression after receiving IV Ketamine for suicidal ideations and literature review with professor Shelton on visceral obesity in depression. I successfully apply this knowledge in my daily practice.
(406) 416-5288 View (406) 416-5288
Photo of Michele Tulk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Michele Tulk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Online Only
I have 12 years of experience prescribing mental health medications as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am kind, safe, non-judgmental, empathic, and I welcome all belief systems. 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!
I have 12 years of experience prescribing mental health medications as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am kind, safe, non-judgmental, empathic, and I welcome all belief systems. 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 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 Allison Sears, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, APRN, PMHNP
Allison Sears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, APRN, PMHNP
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) 905-0669 View (406) 905-0669
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 Jiff (Jennifer) McAnally, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Jiff (Jennifer) McAnally
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Billings, MT 59102
Jiff is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Montana State University & focused her research on treating Adverse Childhood Experiences. She has worked & trained at Montana State Hospital, the VA, & many regional hospitals & outpatient facilities where she has served all ages & complexities. She authors continuing education for nurses & instructs nursing courses. Jiff grew up in the small-town, farming, ranching, and rodeo ways of life in Montana. She operates from the values of community learned here.
Jiff is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Montana State University & focused her research on treating Adverse Childhood Experiences. She has worked & trained at Montana State Hospital, the VA, & many regional hospitals & outpatient facilities where she has served all ages & complexities. She authors continuing education for nurses & instructs nursing courses. Jiff grew up in the small-town, farming, ranching, and rodeo ways of life in Montana. She operates from the values of community learned here.
(406) 431-1336 View (406) 431-1336
Photo of Ruthann Rafacz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ruthann Rafacz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am Ruth Rafacz a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2010. I believe in working together with my patient. My patients are active participants in their care. working with the patient to find the right medicine and theoretical approach that is tailor made for each patient. There is no one size fits all in mental healthcare.
Hello, I am Ruth Rafacz a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing since 2010. I believe in working together with my patient. My patients are active participants in their care. working with the patient to find the right medicine and theoretical approach that is tailor made for each patient. There is no one size fits all in mental healthcare.
(406) 795-5049 View (406) 795-5049
Photo of Jessica Rivera, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Jessica Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Billings, MT 59106
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

See more therapy options for Billings

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Billings, MT

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Billings, MT who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
93% Anxiety
90% Trauma and PTSD
90% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
70% ADHD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
81% Cigna and Evernorth
78% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Billings, MT see their clients

65% Online Only
35% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Billings?

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.