Psychiatrists in Jefferson County, MT

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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 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 Kristel Kishbaugh, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristel Kishbaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Nicole Faessel - Bellathia Psychiatry, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, PMHC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bellathia Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMHC
Verified Verified
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 Rebecca Pogoda, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Pogoda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 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 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 Samantha Reed, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belgrade, MT 59714
Now accepting pediatric and adolescent referrals. 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.
Now accepting pediatric and adolescent referrals. 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 Carly Hillenbrand, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carly Hillenbrand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anaconda, MT 59711
I was raised in a small town in eastern Montana. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Montana State University in 2012 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (psych/mental health) from Montana State University in 2016. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health and have worked with a variety of patients throughout my practice. I believe recovery blossoms when there is a trusting and therapeutic relationship between patient and provider.
I was raised in a small town in eastern Montana. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Montana State University in 2012 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (psych/mental health) from Montana State University in 2016. I have experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health and have worked with a variety of patients throughout my practice. I believe recovery blossoms when there is a trusting and therapeutic relationship between patient and provider.
(406) 420-8869 View (406) 420-8869
Photo of Erin Amato - Montana Psychiatry & Brain Health Center, MD, Psychiatrist
Montana Psychiatry & Brain Health Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
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 Jennifer Foresman, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Foresman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
(878) 217-0537 View (878) 217-0537
Photo of Jamie Beth Goldberg - Wellness Options LLC, PMHNP-C, ACNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wellness Options LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, ACNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Anaconda, MT 59711
My focus is to assist those who may struggle with their mental health and tailor a specific plan of care that the individual and myself create. The recent pandemic has pushed society to recognize that individuals may need assistance with mental wellness. Montana is very rural and services are not always readily available, I am committed to the wellness of individuals and would like to provide services to our community.
My focus is to assist those who may struggle with their mental health and tailor a specific plan of care that the individual and myself create. The recent pandemic has pushed society to recognize that individuals may need assistance with mental wellness. Montana is very rural and services are not always readily available, I am committed to the wellness of individuals and would like to provide services to our community.
(406) 905-0705 View (406) 905-0705
Photo of Megan Bowers, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Megan Bowers
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
My approach is integrative, which means that treatment with medications may be combined with non-medication options, such as mindfulness-based interventions, life-style optimization, and nutritional supplementation. Together, we will develop an individualized well-being plan, which will incorporate your unique goals, and importantly, your perspective on health. My role is to offer these treatment options to you, and guide you as you make the decisions about which of these is aligned with your goals. All treatment options are evidence-informed, based on the medical and scientific literature.
My approach is integrative, which means that treatment with medications may be combined with non-medication options, such as mindfulness-based interventions, life-style optimization, and nutritional supplementation. Together, we will develop an individualized well-being plan, which will incorporate your unique goals, and importantly, your perspective on health. My role is to offer these treatment options to you, and guide you as you make the decisions about which of these is aligned with your goals. All treatment options are evidence-informed, based on the medical and scientific literature.
View
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 Nicole Faessel Aprn, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Faessel Aprn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Schedule today directly ONLINE 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.
Schedule today directly ONLINE 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) 319-3476 View (406) 319-3476
Photo of Sarah Stockham Johnson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Stockham Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Licensed in CO and MT, Sarah is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in nutritional psychiatry. After graduating at the top of her class from the University of Colorado, Sarah further honed her expertise by pursuing advanced training in nutritional psychiatry through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute, Psychiatry Redefined under Dr. James Greenblatt and learned metabolic psychiatry with Dr. Georgia Ede—renowned leaders in the field. Sarah's approach combines the most current knowledge in psychiatry with practical, nutrition-based strategies to optimize mental health and well-being.
Licensed in CO and MT, Sarah is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in nutritional psychiatry. After graduating at the top of her class from the University of Colorado, Sarah further honed her expertise by pursuing advanced training in nutritional psychiatry through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute, Psychiatry Redefined under Dr. James Greenblatt and learned metabolic psychiatry with Dr. Georgia Ede—renowned leaders in the field. Sarah's approach combines the most current knowledge in psychiatry with practical, nutrition-based strategies to optimize mental health and well-being.
(406) 501-6974 View (406) 501-6974
Photo of Liz Gage, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liz Gage
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Have you trialed multiple medications without lasting benefit? Are you interested in treating symptoms with minimal use of pharmaceuticals? Or seeking more comprehensive and approachable psychiatric care? I am committed to providing personalized and holistic psychiatry to improve outcomes. Functional medicine treats root biological causes for symptoms. Treatment includes assessment of individual genetics, nutritional deficiencies, infections, and toxins guided by lab testing; and methodical intervention with supplements, medications, and lifestyle guidance. This method moves beyond symptom management to offer recovery and healing.
Have you trialed multiple medications without lasting benefit? Are you interested in treating symptoms with minimal use of pharmaceuticals? Or seeking more comprehensive and approachable psychiatric care? I am committed to providing personalized and holistic psychiatry to improve outcomes. Functional medicine treats root biological causes for symptoms. Treatment includes assessment of individual genetics, nutritional deficiencies, infections, and toxins guided by lab testing; and methodical intervention with supplements, medications, and lifestyle guidance. This method moves beyond symptom management to offer recovery and healing.
View
Photo of Allison Russo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Russo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcoming new clients! Are anxiety, depression, or mood struggles making it difficult to fully enjoy life? Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward? Perhaps you're a parent watching your child or teen struggle, seeking compassionate, professional support to help them navigate their challenges. Whatever your situation, you don’t have to face it alone—I’m here to help.
Welcoming new clients! Are anxiety, depression, or mood struggles making it difficult to fully enjoy life? Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward? Perhaps you're a parent watching your child or teen struggle, seeking compassionate, professional support to help them navigate their challenges. Whatever your situation, you don’t have to face it alone—I’m here to help.
(406) 686-7968 View (406) 686-7968
Photo of Melany Gardner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melany Gardner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sometimes we struggle to be our best selves. Our personal relationships suffer and we struggle to function well at our jobs. It is natural to dismiss symptoms as situational, and to believe that you can overcome the impact of your circumstances. Sometimes the brain needs a little help to re-establish healthy pathways. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, it is my job to get to know you and work with you to identify and treat the symptoms that negatively impact your life.
Sometimes we struggle to be our best selves. Our personal relationships suffer and we struggle to function well at our jobs. It is natural to dismiss symptoms as situational, and to believe that you can overcome the impact of your circumstances. Sometimes the brain needs a little help to re-establish healthy pathways. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, it is my job to get to know you and work with you to identify and treat the symptoms that negatively impact your life.
View
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 Michelle Herron, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Herron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Michelle Herron grew up in Helena, Montana. She has been specializing in psychiatric care for 13 years. Michelle graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Montana State University in 2022; she is passionate about providing inclusive psychiatric services to Montanans. Michelle believes that the provider and client work together to find an individualized treatment that promotes health, healing, and hope.
Michelle Herron grew up in Helena, Montana. She has been specializing in psychiatric care for 13 years. Michelle graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Montana State University in 2022; she is passionate about providing inclusive psychiatric services to Montanans. Michelle believes that the provider and client work together to find an individualized treatment that promotes health, healing, and hope.
(406) 991-1616 View (406) 991-1616

See more therapy options for Jefferson County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Jefferson County, MT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Jefferson County, MT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Autism
100% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% First Choice Health | FCH

How Psychiatrists in Jefferson County, MT see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Jefferson County?

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

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

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

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

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.