Psychiatrists in Papillion, NE

Photo of Latrice Martin, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Latrice Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNM
Verified Verified
Papillion, NE 68046
Need help with weight loss? NOW Offering Medical Weight Loss Options! 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.
Need help with weight loss? NOW Offering Medical Weight Loss Options! 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.
(402) 523-2876 View (402) 523-2876
Photo of Nazira Usmanova, PMHNP, AGNP, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nazira Usmanova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, PNP
Verified Verified
Papillion, NE 68046
My main focus is on the evaluation and diagnosis of childhood and adult ADHD andAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Tourette’s/Tics, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Anxiety, as well as treatment of other mood disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and chronic mental illness through psychiatric assessment, medication management and brief psychotherapeutic intervention for adult clients ages 3-60 years of age. I believe in holistic care and creating an individualized plan of care that values client involvement, interprofessional collaboration and evidenced-based practice.
My main focus is on the evaluation and diagnosis of childhood and adult ADHD andAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Tourette’s/Tics, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Anxiety, as well as treatment of other mood disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, and chronic mental illness through psychiatric assessment, medication management and brief psychotherapeutic intervention for adult clients ages 3-60 years of age. I believe in holistic care and creating an individualized plan of care that values client involvement, interprofessional collaboration and evidenced-based practice.
(531) 278-6267 View (531) 278-6267
Photo of Athena Clare Fertig, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Athena Clare Fertig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Papillion, NE 68046
Accepting new patients! I offer in person and telehealth visits and I am fully licensed in Iowa and Nebraska. My mission is to provide affordable, holistic, compassionate and comprehensive care. Now accepting many insurance plans; I also offer sliding scale option for self-pay. I take a Holistic approach, which may include referrals for therapy, nutritional counseling, ruling out environmental and medical problems that may cause symptoms, genetic testing when needed, and medications to target symptoms. I invite you to contact my office for an initial consultation.
Accepting new patients! I offer in person and telehealth visits and I am fully licensed in Iowa and Nebraska. My mission is to provide affordable, holistic, compassionate and comprehensive care. Now accepting many insurance plans; I also offer sliding scale option for self-pay. I take a Holistic approach, which may include referrals for therapy, nutritional counseling, ruling out environmental and medical problems that may cause symptoms, genetic testing when needed, and medications to target symptoms. I invite you to contact my office for an initial consultation.
(712) 458-4217 View (712) 458-4217
Photo of Joe G Councill III - Councill Psychiatric Care Specialists, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Councill Psychiatric Care Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Papillion, NE 68046
I Provide comprehensive whole person centered care with an emphasis on shared decision making and extensive education around diagnoses and treatment. I see clients of all ages and can provide research based effective treatment for any type of mental illness.Shared decision making means that you and I will discuss and decide all aspects of your care together as a team. We will discuss the symptoms/difficulties you present with and decide together if a diagnoses fits those symptoms.
I Provide comprehensive whole person centered care with an emphasis on shared decision making and extensive education around diagnoses and treatment. I see clients of all ages and can provide research based effective treatment for any type of mental illness.Shared decision making means that you and I will discuss and decide all aspects of your care together as a team. We will discuss the symptoms/difficulties you present with and decide together if a diagnoses fits those symptoms.
(402) 281-9035 View (402) 281-9035
Photo of Janette Stallings, MA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janette Stallings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Papillion, NE 68046
Are you considering medications but want someone to understand your life? I use a combination of medication and talk therapy combined with a background in Complementary and Alternative Medicine to help you work through and process life challenges. This is considered a holistic approach - treating the whole person (mental, emotional, physical, professional and spiritual) like a person - listening and discussing the best options to reach your goals. If medications are needed, there are options and I can prescribe them - let's talk. I accept most insurances and am currently accepting new patients. Give us a call.
Are you considering medications but want someone to understand your life? I use a combination of medication and talk therapy combined with a background in Complementary and Alternative Medicine to help you work through and process life challenges. This is considered a holistic approach - treating the whole person (mental, emotional, physical, professional and spiritual) like a person - listening and discussing the best options to reach your goals. If medications are needed, there are options and I can prescribe them - let's talk. I accept most insurances and am currently accepting new patients. Give us a call.
(402) 385-5323 View (402) 385-5323
Photo of Darrel Moreland, MSN, APRN-NP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Darrel Moreland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-NP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Papillion, NE 68133
Are you struggling with your mental health? Do you, a family member, or friend need professional psychiatric help? Have you or a loved one spent years in treatment for mental health issues in the past yet feel have gotten nowhere? You deserve a better life, and I am here to help.
Are you struggling with your mental health? Do you, a family member, or friend need professional psychiatric help? Have you or a loved one spent years in treatment for mental health issues in the past yet feel have gotten nowhere? You deserve a better life, and I am here to help.
(402) 939-6623 View (402) 939-6623
Photo of Ben Franzen, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ben Franzen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Papillion, NE 68046
I am a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been serving Nebraska since 2022. Born and raised in Nebraska, I am glad to have returned to my home state after completing my education. I strongly believe that the best way to treat patients is to act as a partner and member of the team committed to each patients health and wellness. I always try to offer patients choices for medications and treatments based on my knowledge and expertise while also considering input from each patient regarding what is important to them so we can make treatment decisions together.
I am a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been serving Nebraska since 2022. Born and raised in Nebraska, I am glad to have returned to my home state after completing my education. I strongly believe that the best way to treat patients is to act as a partner and member of the team committed to each patients health and wellness. I always try to offer patients choices for medications and treatments based on my knowledge and expertise while also considering input from each patient regarding what is important to them so we can make treatment decisions together.
(402) 687-3162 View (402) 687-3162
Photo of Melissa Smith, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Papillion, NE 68133
Not accepting new clients
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Janelle Hill, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janelle Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in providing a holistic approach in the treatment of mental health concerns by utilizing a combination of medication management and brief psychotherapy. I specialize in the treatment of adults and adolescents with various mental health disorders. I am committed to fostering an environment of empathy, support, and mutual respect to promote the recovery and personal development of my clients. Resiliency is a powerful attribute of survival and I believe, with the right support and guidance, my clients have the capacity to overcome even the most challenging of circumstances.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in providing a holistic approach in the treatment of mental health concerns by utilizing a combination of medication management and brief psychotherapy. I specialize in the treatment of adults and adolescents with various mental health disorders. I am committed to fostering an environment of empathy, support, and mutual respect to promote the recovery and personal development of my clients. Resiliency is a powerful attribute of survival and I believe, with the right support and guidance, my clients have the capacity to overcome even the most challenging of circumstances.
(402) 500-2011 View (402) 500-2011
Photo of Kimberly Camp-Grimit, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Camp-Grimit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
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 Susan Gripp, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Gripp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gretna, NE 68028
Your needs are unique so your care should be too. I provide individualized psychiatric and behavioral health care to children, adolescents and adults. I have a a specialty focus in children, adolescents and women of all ages, including expectant and nursing mothers.
Your needs are unique so your care should be too. I provide individualized psychiatric and behavioral health care to children, adolescents and adults. I have a a specialty focus in children, adolescents and women of all ages, including expectant and nursing mothers.
View
Photo of Edith Karina De Soto, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edith Karina De Soto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68105
Being bilingual, Edith is well-equipped to serve a diverse patient population, providing effective communication and culturally sensitive care. Specializing in psychiatric medication management, she is passionate about helping patients of all ages find symptom relief and reach their mental health goals. Whether you need medication management or simply a compassionate listener, Edith looks forward to guiding you toward a fulfilling life and improved well-being.
Being bilingual, Edith is well-equipped to serve a diverse patient population, providing effective communication and culturally sensitive care. Specializing in psychiatric medication management, she is passionate about helping patients of all ages find symptom relief and reach their mental health goals. Whether you need medication management or simply a compassionate listener, Edith looks forward to guiding you toward a fulfilling life and improved well-being.
(402) 788-4075 View (402) 788-4075
Photo of Sheree Herkenrath, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheree Herkenrath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68130
With over two decades of experience in healthcare, I understand how challenging it can be to juggle life and maintain your own mental health. I chose a career in mental health to instill hope, promote health and realize potential. I believe that when we enhance mental health, we also improve physical health, familial ties, and general day-to-day functioning
With over two decades of experience in healthcare, I understand how challenging it can be to juggle life and maintain your own mental health. I chose a career in mental health to instill hope, promote health and realize potential. I believe that when we enhance mental health, we also improve physical health, familial ties, and general day-to-day functioning
(402) 543-5960 View (402) 543-5960
Phyllis Theresa Vance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Vista, NE 68128
I seek to treat the whole person, listening to their issues, finding the right medications, recommending therapies that will be helpful. This is a collaborative exercise as each individual has their own unique needs. I seek to listen to the client to find therapies that will best meet their needs.
I seek to treat the whole person, listening to their issues, finding the right medications, recommending therapies that will be helpful. This is a collaborative exercise as each individual has their own unique needs. I seek to listen to the client to find therapies that will best meet their needs.
(402) 382-9820 x107 View (402) 382-9820 x107
Photo of Holly Montgomery, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Montgomery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
Finding the right provider for your mental health can be difficult. You want someone who understands you, listens to you, and treats you like the unique individual you are. You want someone who you can trust and feel comfortable opening up to. You want someone with experience and know-how who will empower you and give you the tools you need to live a fulfilling and successful life.
Finding the right provider for your mental health can be difficult. You want someone who understands you, listens to you, and treats you like the unique individual you are. You want someone who you can trust and feel comfortable opening up to. You want someone with experience and know-how who will empower you and give you the tools you need to live a fulfilling and successful life.
(402) 898-1113 View (402) 898-1113
Photo of Molly Petersen, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Molly Petersen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68130
***Now offering Telehealth Visits ****I use a patient centered holistic approach. I want my patients to be involved in their care. There are many different treatments including medications, different therapies, and non-medicinal treatment options. We will explore all options, and together we will come up with a plan that will best fit your needs at this time in your life. We will talk about long term outcomes and what research has shown for your projected treatment course. I will work with you to provide education and self empowerment so you feel like you have control of your illness, not the other way around.
***Now offering Telehealth Visits ****I use a patient centered holistic approach. I want my patients to be involved in their care. There are many different treatments including medications, different therapies, and non-medicinal treatment options. We will explore all options, and together we will come up with a plan that will best fit your needs at this time in your life. We will talk about long term outcomes and what research has shown for your projected treatment course. I will work with you to provide education and self empowerment so you feel like you have control of your illness, not the other way around.
(402) 810-8161 View (402) 810-8161
Photo of Cheri D. Jenkins, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, LMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cheri D. Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, LMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
Cheri (she/her) is a renowned board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of a leading psychiatric practice. She specializes in empowering teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, and self-sabotage. With a passion for transformative change, Cheri employs a holistic approach that combines evidence-based therapies, nutrition, and mind-body techniques for personalized care. If you’re seeking a compassionate guide on your healing journey, Cheri’s expertise and empathy will help you embrace growth and discover a brighter, more fulfilling path forward.
Cheri (she/her) is a renowned board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of a leading psychiatric practice. She specializes in empowering teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, and self-sabotage. With a passion for transformative change, Cheri employs a holistic approach that combines evidence-based therapies, nutrition, and mind-body techniques for personalized care. If you’re seeking a compassionate guide on your healing journey, Cheri’s expertise and empathy will help you embrace growth and discover a brighter, more fulfilling path forward.
(531) 530-3204 View (531) 530-3204
Photo of Amber Johnson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who firmly believes that mental health is just as crucial as physical health, recognizing that nurturing our minds is vital for overall well-being. I have provided supportive, non-judgmental, and therapeutic mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults in inpatient settings as a nurse for many years. My experience has enhanced my cultural competence, proficiency in crisis management, and my ability to educate and encourage patients effectively.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who firmly believes that mental health is just as crucial as physical health, recognizing that nurturing our minds is vital for overall well-being. I have provided supportive, non-judgmental, and therapeutic mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults in inpatient settings as a nurse for many years. My experience has enhanced my cultural competence, proficiency in crisis management, and my ability to educate and encourage patients effectively.
(402) 771-4875 View (402) 771-4875
Photo of Barbara K Clinkenbeard, MS, MP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara K Clinkenbeard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MP
Verified Verified
Online Only
The ideal client would be someone who needs medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy. I enjoy working with young adults, college age and above. I pride myself on being an expert in psychopharmacology/medication management.
The ideal client would be someone who needs medication management in conjunction with brief psychotherapy. I enjoy working with young adults, college age and above. I pride myself on being an expert in psychopharmacology/medication management.
(402) 538-8861 View (402) 538-8861
Photo of Sherri Taylor, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherri Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elkhorn, NE 68022
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

See more therapy options for Papillion

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Papillion, NE

< 10

Psychiatrists in Papillion, NE who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
88% Relationship Issues
88% Trauma and PTSD
88% Bipolar Disorder
88% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Aetna
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Papillion, NE see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Papillion?

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.