Psychiatrists in Milwaukee County, WI
![Photo of Hong Yin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4646ae2-c69a-4460-8294-176b848b0bed/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in TMS therapy and see individuals for a course of TMS. This stands for transcranial magnetic stimulation and it is FDA approved and endorsed by the American Psychiatric Association. TMS is ideal to consider if a patient has underwent traditional therapy and medication management but they are still struggling with finding relief from their depressive symptoms. Individuals may still struggle with low mood, lack of interest, low energy, difficulty thinking clearly, sleep and appetite disturbances and more. If you are interested in meeting me, please tell the front desk you are interested in TMS to get an appointment.
I specialize in TMS therapy and see individuals for a course of TMS. This stands for transcranial magnetic stimulation and it is FDA approved and endorsed by the American Psychiatric Association. TMS is ideal to consider if a patient has underwent traditional therapy and medication management but they are still struggling with finding relief from their depressive symptoms. Individuals may still struggle with low mood, lack of interest, low energy, difficulty thinking clearly, sleep and appetite disturbances and more. If you are interested in meeting me, please tell the front desk you are interested in TMS to get an appointment.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbc093fb-a50f-424f-885f-6722d22dc385/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Kenya Robertson - Wisconsin Healthcare Network, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a1fede4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wisconsin Healthcare Network
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53222
We strive to improve the mental wellbeing of each person with whom we come in contact with by providing holistic care. “We aspire to bring Excellence for Extraordinary People”
We strive to improve the mental wellbeing of each person with whom we come in contact with by providing holistic care. “We aspire to bring Excellence for Extraordinary People”
![Photo of Maggie Schauer, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eacf554-92a4-424e-8e71-e532c6fc103c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal ideation or emotional intensity disorder? Do you have a need for medication management, are interested in supportive psychotherapy, and/or perhaps are needing more innovative treatment like psychedelics? Through active listening and strengthening coping skills, I would love to help you build a life worth living and live in alignment with your values and beliefs. I believe the clinician/patient relationship is key to improving self-esteem and alleviating symptoms of mental illness.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal ideation or emotional intensity disorder? Do you have a need for medication management, are interested in supportive psychotherapy, and/or perhaps are needing more innovative treatment like psychedelics? Through active listening and strengthening coping skills, I would love to help you build a life worth living and live in alignment with your values and beliefs. I believe the clinician/patient relationship is key to improving self-esteem and alleviating symptoms of mental illness.
![Photo of Hong Yin - New Frontiers TMS LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41de4615-2eef-4598-b9aa-1c204577f91f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Antidepressants not working? TMS is an FDA approved non-medication based option, covered by insurance. It activates cells in the brain that tend to be under-active in depression and also promotes release of neurotransmitters that help mood. TMS targets the part of the brain specifically involved in mood regulation. TMS also works on a concept called neuroplasticity. Stimulating the left prefrontal cortex can induce the brain into creating new pathways for effective transmission. Dr. Yin offers other evidence based treatments too.
Antidepressants not working? TMS is an FDA approved non-medication based option, covered by insurance. It activates cells in the brain that tend to be under-active in depression and also promotes release of neurotransmitters that help mood. TMS targets the part of the brain specifically involved in mood regulation. TMS also works on a concept called neuroplasticity. Stimulating the left prefrontal cortex can induce the brain into creating new pathways for effective transmission. Dr. Yin offers other evidence based treatments too.
![Photo of Nicole Bartelt, MSN, APNP, ANP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfb382b6-2ef9-4c59-a487-00d4984a756d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Bartelt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, ANP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53226
Accepting new patients. Nicole focuses on developing trust and therapeutic relationships with the patients and families she works with. She has a strong passion for treating patients holistically. She is dedicated to reducing stigma regarding mental health and helping patients achieve their goals and live full lives. Prior to specializing in mental health, Nicole has practiced as a nurse practitioner in acute care setting for past 8 years.
Accepting new patients. Nicole focuses on developing trust and therapeutic relationships with the patients and families she works with. She has a strong passion for treating patients holistically. She is dedicated to reducing stigma regarding mental health and helping patients achieve their goals and live full lives. Prior to specializing in mental health, Nicole has practiced as a nurse practitioner in acute care setting for past 8 years.
![Photo of Kelly Theodore - Kelly Theodore , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae12cdd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Theodore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Kelly Theodore is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner who has been practicing in Wisconsin since 2015. She works with adults ages 18-65+ for psychiatric assessments and medication management. Kelly is passionate about working with people to reach their full potential by helping them reconnect to their mental and physical health. Her care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for a highly individualized treatment in an all-inclusive, non-judgmental and empathetic space.
Kelly Theodore is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner who has been practicing in Wisconsin since 2015. She works with adults ages 18-65+ for psychiatric assessments and medication management. Kelly is passionate about working with people to reach their full potential by helping them reconnect to their mental and physical health. Her care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for a highly individualized treatment in an all-inclusive, non-judgmental and empathetic space.
![Photo of Angela Golon, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/069e5873-6910-463a-bcc8-be7c44482392/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m Angie and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. You might consider coming to see me if you are contemplating using psychiatric or addiction medications to help address a problem you are having. In addition to psychiatric/addiction medication management, I can also do brief, solution-focused types of therapy. I prescribe a range of medications for mental health needs and for opioid and alcohol addictions including injectable meds like sublocade and vivitrol. My practice style is down to earth and friendly. My number one goal is to help you become your best self.
I’m Angie and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. You might consider coming to see me if you are contemplating using psychiatric or addiction medications to help address a problem you are having. In addition to psychiatric/addiction medication management, I can also do brief, solution-focused types of therapy. I prescribe a range of medications for mental health needs and for opioid and alcohol addictions including injectable meds like sublocade and vivitrol. My practice style is down to earth and friendly. My number one goal is to help you become your best self.
![Photo of Kristen Anderson, MSN, BSN, RN, APNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26c18eaa-3d6d-41bb-8b21-f820e31978a7/2/320x400.png)
Kristen Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BSN, RN, APNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Oak Creek, WI 53154
Accepting New Patients. Kristen has over ten years of psychiatric experience across the lifespan and in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She places a large emphasis on including the patient in their own care and treatment. When not at work Kristen loves spending time with her family.
Accepting New Patients. Kristen has over ten years of psychiatric experience across the lifespan and in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She places a large emphasis on including the patient in their own care and treatment. When not at work Kristen loves spending time with her family.
Mental Wellness Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, Fauzia
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53221 (Online Only)
Fauzia has attained her master’s degree as a nurse practitioner with her specialization in mental health. As a PMHNP, Fauzia has dedicated her life to helping heal the mental being of her clients who meet her. Fauzia takes time to listen to her clients, whiles using her in-depth knowledge to help come up with a solution for the common goal of both parties. With her patient centered care approach, Fauzia focuses on the individuality of her patients and empowers them to take active role in their care.
Fauzia has attained her master’s degree as a nurse practitioner with her specialization in mental health. As a PMHNP, Fauzia has dedicated her life to helping heal the mental being of her clients who meet her. Fauzia takes time to listen to her clients, whiles using her in-depth knowledge to help come up with a solution for the common goal of both parties. With her patient centered care approach, Fauzia focuses on the individuality of her patients and empowers them to take active role in their care.
![Photo of Andrew Sievila, PMHNP, PMHCNS, APNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14e2f482-e468-42ff-9519-2aa864576d52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Sievila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMHCNS, APNP
Verified Verified
Franklin, WI 53132
Andrew Sievila is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2014. He has a Bachelor’s in Psychology from University of Wisconsin and a Master’s of Science in Nursing from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Andrew served more than 10 years in the Army and was deployed to Iraq between 2006-2007. He has extensive experience as well working with veterans who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Andrew likes to incorporate non-medication options for clients as well to help improve their mental health.
Andrew Sievila is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2014. He has a Bachelor’s in Psychology from University of Wisconsin and a Master’s of Science in Nursing from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Andrew served more than 10 years in the Army and was deployed to Iraq between 2006-2007. He has extensive experience as well working with veterans who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Andrew likes to incorporate non-medication options for clients as well to help improve their mental health.
15 Second Videos
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Maryan Torres
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![Photo of Maryan D Torres- Se Habla Español - Bienestar Psychiatric Services LLC- Maryan Torres, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4e3a97f-fd5f-4e3a-a7b3-9ab27695c325/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bienestar Psychiatric Services LLC- Maryan Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Accepting new patients-no wait times and flexible scheduling. Maryan is Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating adults, children, and families. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and takes a holistic approach to treating the overall person. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
Accepting new patients-no wait times and flexible scheduling. Maryan is Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating adults, children, and families. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and takes a holistic approach to treating the overall person. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
![Photo of Maryan Torres, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28f84cba-b298-46bc-97e7-c37b9328ba49/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maryan Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and taking a holistic approach to treating the overall person. With regard to mental health medication management services and treatment, I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience but also value personal observation and intuition.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and taking a holistic approach to treating the overall person. With regard to mental health medication management services and treatment, I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience but also value personal observation and intuition.
![Photo of Amy Dice, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5eaa108-015a-4485-ae2e-78219b3848ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients eighteen and older. Her background of more than fifteen years of experience in medicine offers her a wealth of first-hand knowledge, giving her an unmatched skillset in both understanding medical systems and in providing mental health care.
Amy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients eighteen and older. Her background of more than fifteen years of experience in medicine offers her a wealth of first-hand knowledge, giving her an unmatched skillset in both understanding medical systems and in providing mental health care.
![Photo of Sarah Wawrzyniak, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b75c4d4-9e80-4b75-bb46-44102397b4d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Wawrzyniak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202 (Online Only)
I have a passion for Healing. From an early age, I was drawn to the intricate tapestry of the human mind. This passion led me to pursue a career in Psychiatry, where I have dedicated myself to understanding and addressing the diverse challenges that individuals face in their mental health journey. I enjoy treating children and adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, trauma, and eating disorders.
I have a passion for Healing. From an early age, I was drawn to the intricate tapestry of the human mind. This passion led me to pursue a career in Psychiatry, where I have dedicated myself to understanding and addressing the diverse challenges that individuals face in their mental health journey. I enjoy treating children and adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, trauma, and eating disorders.
![Photo of Ann LeBaron - Stress Management and Mental Health, MS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec84082d-cb02-4517-8e11-6af3c261db28/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stress Management and Mental Health
Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Allis, WI 53227
Hi, I provide medication management at Wisconsin Stress Management. I see patents who are self referred, as well as, referred by their therapist or other providers. I provide evaluation and treatment of a variety of mental health symptoms.
Hi, I provide medication management at Wisconsin Stress Management. I see patents who are self referred, as well as, referred by their therapist or other providers. I provide evaluation and treatment of a variety of mental health symptoms.
![Photo of Lisa Calabrese, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5afee93b-bdc5-4ed7-91be-f6dc2388300a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Calabrese is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Bachelor of arts in human geography from UW Madison, a Bachelor of science in nursing from UW Oshkosh, and a Master's of science in nursing from Alverno College. Lisa practices a compassionate, holistic, and trauma-informed approach to mental health care. She wants to help her clients identify their strengths and improve their mental health from multiple angles, with a focus on healthy lifestyle.
Lisa Calabrese is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Bachelor of arts in human geography from UW Madison, a Bachelor of science in nursing from UW Oshkosh, and a Master's of science in nursing from Alverno College. Lisa practices a compassionate, holistic, and trauma-informed approach to mental health care. She wants to help her clients identify their strengths and improve their mental health from multiple angles, with a focus on healthy lifestyle.
![Photo of Jennifer Ha, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b6b354e-1181-4602-8494-9193a66a7219/2/320x400.jpeg)
This clinic specializes in TMS therapy. This is transcranial magnetic stimulation and it is FDA approved, endorsed by the American Psychiatric Association. TMS is ideal to consider if a patient has underwent traditional therapy and medication management but they are still struggling with finding relief from their depressive symptoms. Individuals may still struggle with low mood, lack of interest, low energy, difficulty thinking clearly, sleep and appetite disturbances and more. If you are interested in meeting, please tell the front desk you are interested in TMS to get an appointment.
This clinic specializes in TMS therapy. This is transcranial magnetic stimulation and it is FDA approved, endorsed by the American Psychiatric Association. TMS is ideal to consider if a patient has underwent traditional therapy and medication management but they are still struggling with finding relief from their depressive symptoms. Individuals may still struggle with low mood, lack of interest, low energy, difficulty thinking clearly, sleep and appetite disturbances and more. If you are interested in meeting, please tell the front desk you are interested in TMS to get an appointment.
![Photo of Mark Bender, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/845c1a52-1799-4668-9388-df80b62a8ad9/1/320x400.png)
Mark Bender
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53211 (Online Only)
I graduated from USC in 1988. With over 35 years of experience as a physician assistant in a variety of health care settings, I am committed to the whole person concept and improving the quality of life of patients with complex medical conditions and their family members in various settings. My goal is to help patients from all walks of life navigate their complex world by listening to them in order to live a healthier and well-balanced life.
I graduated from USC in 1988. With over 35 years of experience as a physician assistant in a variety of health care settings, I am committed to the whole person concept and improving the quality of life of patients with complex medical conditions and their family members in various settings. My goal is to help patients from all walks of life navigate their complex world by listening to them in order to live a healthier and well-balanced life.
![Photo of Kate Meine - Tulaya Wellness - Kate Meine , DNP, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c7c403e-f501-44a6-8077-f160b4978724/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tulaya Wellness - Kate Meine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about working with people to reach their full potential. I help people reconnect to their mental and physical health. I am trained as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner as well as a Certified Nurse Midwife. My care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for highly individualized treatment in a non-judgmental and empathetic space. A thorough medical and psychiatric history will be obtained and together we will decide the best treatment options.
I am passionate about working with people to reach their full potential. I help people reconnect to their mental and physical health. I am trained as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner as well as a Certified Nurse Midwife. My care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for highly individualized treatment in a non-judgmental and empathetic space. A thorough medical and psychiatric history will be obtained and together we will decide the best treatment options.
See more therapy options for Milwaukee County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Milwaukee County, WI
70+
Average cost per session
$230
Psychiatrists in Milwaukee County, WI who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | ADHD |
71% | Medication Management |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
69% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Milwaukee County, WI see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Milwaukee 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.