Psychiatrists in Fremont, NE

Photo of Paul M Wilken, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Paul M Wilken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
I partner with clients of all ages and life experiences. My goal is to be your teammate in finding the simplest and healthiest strategies to allow you to take ownership of your mental health.
I partner with clients of all ages and life experiences. My goal is to be your teammate in finding the simplest and healthiest strategies to allow you to take ownership of your mental health.
(402) 256-5767 View (402) 256-5767
Photo of Amy Barnes, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN-NP, PMHNPBC
Amy Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN-NP, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to helping my patients achieve wellness in mind, body, and spirit. In my practice I collaborate with multiple specialties to treat psychiatric diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD and PTSD. I also work with women who are pre-natal, pregnant, or postpartum; as well as those going through fertility treatment. I am an advocate and ally of the LGBTQIA community. I believe patients are best served when approached with non-judgment and are encouraged to be an active part of their health journey.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to helping my patients achieve wellness in mind, body, and spirit. In my practice I collaborate with multiple specialties to treat psychiatric diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD and PTSD. I also work with women who are pre-natal, pregnant, or postpartum; as well as those going through fertility treatment. I am an advocate and ally of the LGBTQIA community. I believe patients are best served when approached with non-judgment and are encouraged to be an active part of their health journey.
(402) 281-9969 View (402) 281-9969
Photo of Sherri Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sherri Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I have been providing medical care for over 30 years as a registered nurse. I have cared for patients at every stage of life from beginning to end. It has been a rewarding career. My practice philosophy as a nurse practitioner is much the same as it was as a nurse. I want to continue to be compassionate in my care for others. On your first visit, I like to gather your medical and mental health history so we can target your most problematic issues or concerns together. To accomplish your treatment goals, I need to understand where you have been, where you are, and where you want to be in the future.
I have been providing medical care for over 30 years as a registered nurse. I have cared for patients at every stage of life from beginning to end. It has been a rewarding career. My practice philosophy as a nurse practitioner is much the same as it was as a nurse. I want to continue to be compassionate in my care for others. On your first visit, I like to gather your medical and mental health history so we can target your most problematic issues or concerns together. To accomplish your treatment goals, I need to understand where you have been, where you are, and where you want to be in the future.
(402) 382-9847 View (402) 382-9847
Photo of Amanda Sumner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Amanda Sumner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Currently, my services are only available through Community Healthcare Partners and their contracts with Long Term Care centers, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Memory Care Centers, and Assisted Living Facilities across eastern Nebraska. In those settings I provide medication management and consultation for psychiatric illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders within the realm of many complex factors such as cognitive decline, chronic illness, and medication interactions.
Currently, my services are only available through Community Healthcare Partners and their contracts with Long Term Care centers, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Memory Care Centers, and Assisted Living Facilities across eastern Nebraska. In those settings I provide medication management and consultation for psychiatric illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders within the realm of many complex factors such as cognitive decline, chronic illness, and medication interactions.

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Faujia Sobhan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Faujia Sobhan
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcome to Talkiatry. My passion is caring for patients with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Social Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD. My philosophy is to provide a comprehensive approach utilizing medication, supportive therapy and psychoeducation. I strive to provide care in a compassionate, non judgmental, and nurturing environment, taking time to explore symptoms, actively listen to the patient thus getting to know the person as a whole, their life stressors and what they are striving to achieve.
Welcome to Talkiatry. My passion is caring for patients with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Social Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD. My philosophy is to provide a comprehensive approach utilizing medication, supportive therapy and psychoeducation. I strive to provide care in a compassionate, non judgmental, and nurturing environment, taking time to explore symptoms, actively listen to the patient thus getting to know the person as a whole, their life stressors and what they are striving to achieve.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Nicholas King, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicholas King
Psychiatrist, MD
Omaha, NE 68137
Offering therapy and medication management services for patients looking for a solution-based approach to behavioral health issues that focuses on whole person health and lifestyle modification (nutrition, fitness, organization, etc).
Offering therapy and medication management services for patients looking for a solution-based approach to behavioral health issues that focuses on whole person health and lifestyle modification (nutrition, fitness, organization, etc).
(402) 588-4777 View (402) 588-4777
Photo of Edison Mbemngong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Edison Mbemngong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health care, integrating psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle interventions to promote overall well-being. I use evidence-based approach to mental health care, combining psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle modifications to support patients’ well-being. I also integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps patients develop healthier behaviors and thought processes, leading to long-term mental health improvement.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health care, integrating psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle interventions to promote overall well-being. I use evidence-based approach to mental health care, combining psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle modifications to support patients’ well-being. I also integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps patients develop healthier behaviors and thought processes, leading to long-term mental health improvement.
(402) 685-8936 View (402) 685-8936
Photo of Dr. Troyia S. Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Troyia S. Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP, BC
4 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been a nurse for over 14 years with a variety of experience and expertise. I have managed mental health facilities as well as worked as a psychiatric nursing instructor. In addition, I specialize in psychiatric emergency medicine and can treat a range of psychiatric conditions.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been a nurse for over 14 years with a variety of experience and expertise. I have managed mental health facilities as well as worked as a psychiatric nursing instructor. In addition, I specialize in psychiatric emergency medicine and can treat a range of psychiatric conditions.
(402) 809-5350 View (402) 809-5350
Photo of Jennifer Harrison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Jennifer Harrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
In a world of chaos, I would like to offer the calm in your life! I enjoy helping those who struggle with mental health challenges reach their best potential. The first visit is a consultation so we can get to know each other. We will explore YOUR reasons for visiting with me, your medical and mental health history, your family history, your symptoms and your goals. We will work together to come up with a plan that you're comfortable with.
In a world of chaos, I would like to offer the calm in your life! I enjoy helping those who struggle with mental health challenges reach their best potential. The first visit is a consultation so we can get to know each other. We will explore YOUR reasons for visiting with me, your medical and mental health history, your family history, your symptoms and your goals. We will work together to come up with a plan that you're comfortable with.
(402) 383-5940 View (402) 383-5940
Photo of Norma Ngute, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Norma Ngute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Omaha, NE 68154
I strongly believe that overall health begins with one’s mental state. It is of great importance to me to help provide what is needed to nurture the mind, for an overall better well-being. Developing a therapeutic, trusting and non judgmental relationship with my patients is a priority of mine. I want my patients to always feel safe and know that their mental health is what matters the most when they see me.
I strongly believe that overall health begins with one’s mental state. It is of great importance to me to help provide what is needed to nurture the mind, for an overall better well-being. Developing a therapeutic, trusting and non judgmental relationship with my patients is a priority of mine. I want my patients to always feel safe and know that their mental health is what matters the most when they see me.
(402) 538-8398 View (402) 538-8398
Photo of Dr. Chhavi Chaudhary, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chhavi Chaudhary
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Chhavi Chaudhary is a dual board-certified psychiatrist with subspecialty certification in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed her fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis, where she also served as Chief Fellow, and her general psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler. Over the past year, she has provided telehealth psychiatric consultations across emergency rooms and inpatient settings, gaining extensive experience across state hospitals, outpatient clinics, college mental health, preschool, mood disorder, and community health clinics.
Dr. Chhavi Chaudhary is a dual board-certified psychiatrist with subspecialty certification in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed her fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis, where she also served as Chief Fellow, and her general psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler. Over the past year, she has provided telehealth psychiatric consultations across emergency rooms and inpatient settings, gaining extensive experience across state hospitals, outpatient clinics, college mental health, preschool, mood disorder, and community health clinics.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Kimberly Camp-Grimit, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Kimberly Camp-Grimit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Omaha, NE 68130
Over the past 18 years of practice, the most rewarding part of my career has been seeing patients achieve their occupational, personal and spiritual goals through the management of their psychiatric symptoms. I work with patients to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses the symptoms that are causing difficulty in their lives.
Over the past 18 years of practice, the most rewarding part of my career has been seeing patients achieve their occupational, personal and spiritual goals through the management of their psychiatric symptoms. I work with patients to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses the symptoms that are causing difficulty in their lives.
(402) 281-9304 View (402) 281-9304
Photo of Felina Sno Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AG-ACNP
Felina Sno Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AG-ACNP
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
You may feel weighed down by trauma, anxiety, ADHD, or depression—or notice how these struggles spill into your physical health, relationships, work, and overall sense of self. My ideal client longs for relief, clarity, and confidence. They want to stop cycling through old patterns, release the heaviness they carry, and feel lighter in both mind and body as they move toward meaningful change. Their goal isn’t just “coping”: it’s healing, growing, and reclaiming joy. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding them back, strengthen resilience, and create a supportive path toward lasting balance, renewed confidence, and a fulfilling life.
You may feel weighed down by trauma, anxiety, ADHD, or depression—or notice how these struggles spill into your physical health, relationships, work, and overall sense of self. My ideal client longs for relief, clarity, and confidence. They want to stop cycling through old patterns, release the heaviness they carry, and feel lighter in both mind and body as they move toward meaningful change. Their goal isn’t just “coping”: it’s healing, growing, and reclaiming joy. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding them back, strengthen resilience, and create a supportive path toward lasting balance, renewed confidence, and a fulfilling life.
(402) 765-4554 View (402) 765-4554
Photo of Marisha L VanVleet - Silver Sage Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, BC
Silver Sage Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, BC
Omaha, NE 68154
I enjoy helping people...period. I am credentialed for all ages from very young to the elderly and have worked with all ages. For patients that do need medication; I use a conservative approach and monitor closely until they are stable. My medication management patients do get some therapy in their follow up sessions, because this assists me in evaluating the effectiveness of the medication. If I am not able to help a patient, I will try to find someone else who is a better fit for them. I believe in a community approach for patients, it does take us all working together!
I enjoy helping people...period. I am credentialed for all ages from very young to the elderly and have worked with all ages. For patients that do need medication; I use a conservative approach and monitor closely until they are stable. My medication management patients do get some therapy in their follow up sessions, because this assists me in evaluating the effectiveness of the medication. If I am not able to help a patient, I will try to find someone else who is a better fit for them. I believe in a community approach for patients, it does take us all working together!
(402) 898-1113 View (402) 898-1113
Photo of Carrie Weaver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Carrie Weaver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Omaha, NE 68154
My ideal client is a child or adolescent, aged 5-18, facing challenges such as mood disorders (e.g., depression or disruptive mood dysregulation disorder), anxiety disorders (e.g., panic disorder, acute stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder), behavioral disorders (e.g., ADHD or ODD), developmental disorders, psychotic disorders, or trauma. Many of my clients may also be navigating the complexities of foster care, which adds layers of emotional and social challenges. Their primary needs are understanding, support, and a tailored treatment approach that aligns with their unique developmental stage.
My ideal client is a child or adolescent, aged 5-18, facing challenges such as mood disorders (e.g., depression or disruptive mood dysregulation disorder), anxiety disorders (e.g., panic disorder, acute stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder), behavioral disorders (e.g., ADHD or ODD), developmental disorders, psychotic disorders, or trauma. Many of my clients may also be navigating the complexities of foster care, which adds layers of emotional and social challenges. Their primary needs are understanding, support, and a tailored treatment approach that aligns with their unique developmental stage.
(402) 923-8779 View (402) 923-8779
Photo of Concey Ramold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Concey Ramold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my focus is providing patient centered, individualized care utilizing medication management. I look forward to getting to know my clients and schedule 60-90 minutes for new intakes and 30 minutes for follow up appointments as I believe becoming familiar with my client is imperative in developing an individualized, personalized treatment plan. I also provide brief supportive therapy at each visit. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, attention deficit disorder and substance use disorders and work in collaboration with other specialties to treat psychiatric diagnoses.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my focus is providing patient centered, individualized care utilizing medication management. I look forward to getting to know my clients and schedule 60-90 minutes for new intakes and 30 minutes for follow up appointments as I believe becoming familiar with my client is imperative in developing an individualized, personalized treatment plan. I also provide brief supportive therapy at each visit. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, attention deficit disorder and substance use disorders and work in collaboration with other specialties to treat psychiatric diagnoses.
(402) 858-5573 x100 View (402) 858-5573 x100
Photo of Latrice Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, CNM
Latrice Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, CNM
Serves Area
Life is a Journey! Life is about LIVING. We can't know what is coming and we need to enjoy every day instead of trying to “arrive.” We should enjoy the unfolding and the process. Whole person health is certainly not a journey you can take alone. Not everyone needs to know the details, but having a circle of people who care is essential. Lacking energy? Hormone levels feel off? Now offering Deficiency Lab work, IV Hydration/Vitamin Shots! Current, recent, or past trauma keeping you from living your best life? Now offering Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)!
Life is a Journey! Life is about LIVING. We can't know what is coming and we need to enjoy every day instead of trying to “arrive.” We should enjoy the unfolding and the process. Whole person health is certainly not a journey you can take alone. Not everyone needs to know the details, but having a circle of people who care is essential. Lacking energy? Hormone levels feel off? Now offering Deficiency Lab work, IV Hydration/Vitamin Shots! Current, recent, or past trauma keeping you from living your best life? Now offering Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)!
(402) 523-2876 View (402) 523-2876
Photo of Angela D Shields, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Angela D Shields
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Omaha, NE 68130
Welcome, I am the Psychiatric Director for Waybridge Clinics. I work closely with Elizabeth Elwood, PHMNP in our Nashville location to provide medication management and evidence-based interventional psychiatry services for patients struggling with treatment-resistant depression and co-occurring disorders. My clinical expertise includes treating adults with depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse. At Waybridge Clinics, we take an evidence-based, whole health approach to patient care and believe in meeting you "where you are” on your road to recovery.
Welcome, I am the Psychiatric Director for Waybridge Clinics. I work closely with Elizabeth Elwood, PHMNP in our Nashville location to provide medication management and evidence-based interventional psychiatry services for patients struggling with treatment-resistant depression and co-occurring disorders. My clinical expertise includes treating adults with depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse. At Waybridge Clinics, we take an evidence-based, whole health approach to patient care and believe in meeting you "where you are” on your road to recovery.
(615) 903-5439 View (615) 903-5439
Photo of John Paul Coxey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
John Paul Coxey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
John Coxey holds a Doctorate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from the University of Pittsburgh and is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, seeing patients ages 14 and up.
John Coxey holds a Doctorate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from the University of Pittsburgh and is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, seeing patients ages 14 and up.
(402) 268-5795 View (402) 268-5795
Photo of Melissa Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP
Melissa Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
Mental health is a process which requires self-care, empathy, compassion, and respect. These elements are best supported by a provider who takes time to understand individual needs with gentle sensitivity. Melissa has extensive nursing experience working with teenagers and adults in strengthening self-compassion and mental health. She strongly believes in partnering with her clients to help them reach their desired goals.
Mental health is a process which requires self-care, empathy, compassion, and respect. These elements are best supported by a provider who takes time to understand individual needs with gentle sensitivity. Melissa has extensive nursing experience working with teenagers and adults in strengthening self-compassion and mental health. She strongly believes in partnering with her clients to help them reach their desired goals.
(402) 627-8695 View (402) 627-8695

See more therapy options for Fremont

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Fremont, NE

< 10

Psychiatrists in Fremont, NE who prioritize treating:

75% Depression
75% Anxiety
75% Medication Management
50% Addiction
50% ADHD
50% Trauma and PTSD
50% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

6 Years

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male

How Psychiatrists in Fremont, NE see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Fremont?

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.