Psychiatrists in Virginia, MN
![Photo of Kathy Udovich, MSN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/724f1c33-9505-4104-b474-c0d122fade5a/1/320x400.png)
Kathy Udovich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Virginia, MN 55792 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance misuse, and other mental health issues across the lifespan. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I endeavor to treat the whole person empathetically, compassionately, and non-judgmentally while maintaining the patient’s dignity.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients suffering from depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance misuse, and other mental health issues across the lifespan. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I endeavor to treat the whole person empathetically, compassionately, and non-judgmentally while maintaining the patient’s dignity.
![Photo of Tammy Word - Integrative Healing Mental Health Services , APRN , CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/860ef486-0c50-43d3-a11d-83e429a3d232/1/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Healing Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia, MN 55777
Greetings, I am Tammy Word, a dedicated and compassionate Nurse Practitioner with several years of experience in providing high-quality healthcare services. My journey in the field of nursing has been driven by a profound commitment to patient well-being, a passion for continuous learning, and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those under my care.
Greetings, I am Tammy Word, a dedicated and compassionate Nurse Practitioner with several years of experience in providing high-quality healthcare services. My journey in the field of nursing has been driven by a profound commitment to patient well-being, a passion for continuous learning, and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those under my care.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Nesrin Abu Ata, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d6724b5-0c9d-48d4-be11-b46e9d7d9891/1/320x400.jpeg)
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
![Photo of Kristin Mary Sorensen, PMH-NP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6561203e-65e8-4562-a346-88ed01dab76e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Mary Sorensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
I appreciate the opportunity to work with children, adolescent and adult clients. I see clients via a privacy protected telemedicine-video conferencing platform (Telemedicine) and in person if preferred. I welcome those who are feeling down, anxious, having difficulty focusing or controlling behavior and those who are concerned with alcohol and drug use. If you have longstanding psychiatric concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, attention deficit and addictions, I will conduct a thorough review of medication and hospitalization history and together, we will create a unique plan of care for you.
I appreciate the opportunity to work with children, adolescent and adult clients. I see clients via a privacy protected telemedicine-video conferencing platform (Telemedicine) and in person if preferred. I welcome those who are feeling down, anxious, having difficulty focusing or controlling behavior and those who are concerned with alcohol and drug use. If you have longstanding psychiatric concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, attention deficit and addictions, I will conduct a thorough review of medication and hospitalization history and together, we will create a unique plan of care for you.
![Photo of Kimberly Johnson - Northern Waters Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/229eeefd-dd96-4d86-9d0b-56f83dd54217/1/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate openings available. Northern Waters Clinic is comprised of experienced professionals who provide individualized treatment to promote mental health and wellness for the people we serve. Services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy to individuals across the lifespan, family and marital counseling, and Genesight testing. We are offering another option to our community to receive psychiatric and therapy services. Our goal is to provider personal centered care, collaboratively with the clients that we serve.
Immediate openings available. Northern Waters Clinic is comprised of experienced professionals who provide individualized treatment to promote mental health and wellness for the people we serve. Services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy to individuals across the lifespan, family and marital counseling, and Genesight testing. We are offering another option to our community to receive psychiatric and therapy services. Our goal is to provider personal centered care, collaboratively with the clients that we serve.
![Photo of Patty Jo Mantel, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45902612-845a-44b0-81cd-f53e10ae445e/2/320x400.png)
Patty Jo Mantel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Proctor, MN 55810 (Online Only)
Patty Jo is a Family Nurse Practitioner with additional certification in Geriatrics. She strives to provide holistic patient care and include functional/integrative medicine approach to visits. She has a passion for helping patients tap into personal motivation within themselves to be healthy. Patty Jo has treated acute conditions such as skin or respiratory infections, chronic conditions such as pre-diabetes and diabetes. Hypertension, pain, anxiety, and depression are also specialty fields. She is also trained in the FEMM approach for treating women’s health issues such as PMS, menstrual irregularities, infertility, and PCOS.
Patty Jo is a Family Nurse Practitioner with additional certification in Geriatrics. She strives to provide holistic patient care and include functional/integrative medicine approach to visits. She has a passion for helping patients tap into personal motivation within themselves to be healthy. Patty Jo has treated acute conditions such as skin or respiratory infections, chronic conditions such as pre-diabetes and diabetes. Hypertension, pain, anxiety, and depression are also specialty fields. She is also trained in the FEMM approach for treating women’s health issues such as PMS, menstrual irregularities, infertility, and PCOS.
![Photo of Jane Parker - Inner Fokus, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459eb6f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication evaluations and management, as well as Sexuality Counseling and Education Services to clients at Inner Fokus. My clinical foundation lies within my background as a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing psychiatric medication evaluation and management services. Medication with psychotherapy can provide many people with the highest standard of care. It is a big decision to incorporate medication into your psychological care, but the modalities are complementary, and usually lead to the most significant clinical improvement. Each medication appointment involves a complete assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, and collaborative discussion about treatment recommendations.
As an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication evaluations and management, as well as Sexuality Counseling and Education Services to clients at Inner Fokus. My clinical foundation lies within my background as a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing psychiatric medication evaluation and management services. Medication with psychotherapy can provide many people with the highest standard of care. It is a big decision to incorporate medication into your psychological care, but the modalities are complementary, and usually lead to the most significant clinical improvement. Each medication appointment involves a complete assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, and collaborative discussion about treatment recommendations.
![Photo of Christina Kirchen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df4510b4-cee8-4f1e-be1a-694ba79cfc9d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Kirchen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chisholm, MN 55719
Christina is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management and therapy services. She has specialty training in perinatal mental health and also cares for those with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis and all other mental health conditions.
Christina is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management and therapy services. She has specialty training in perinatal mental health and also cares for those with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis and all other mental health conditions.
Dr. Joannah Bluntach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hermantown, MN 55811
Hello to everyone! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in northern Minnesota.I am passionate about helping people and mental health. I strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and provide culturally sensitive, non-non-judgmental, non-judgmental, person-centered care. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you on meeting your goals. I created Compassionate Quality Psychiatry with the goal to provide quality, compassionate, affordable care to the community in Minnesota.
Hello to everyone! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in northern Minnesota.I am passionate about helping people and mental health. I strive to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and provide culturally sensitive, non-non-judgmental, non-judgmental, person-centered care. I believe in a holistic, collaborative approach and am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you on meeting your goals. I created Compassionate Quality Psychiatry with the goal to provide quality, compassionate, affordable care to the community in Minnesota.
![Photo of Kari Rengo, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffe15931-dcf9-47f5-a507-ceb51b801ab0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kari Rengo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55810 (Online Only)
What I love about psychiatry is helping you return to your True North. We work together to identify symptoms causing difficulty. We create a treatment plan that is based on your most deeply held beliefs, values, and principles. We celebrate when your symptoms lessen and you feel yourself moving back towards your True North.
What I love about psychiatry is helping you return to your True North. We work together to identify symptoms causing difficulty. We create a treatment plan that is based on your most deeply held beliefs, values, and principles. We celebrate when your symptoms lessen and you feel yourself moving back towards your True North.
![Photo of Jody Murphy, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/207fd6d8-de06-494a-86c0-93116fa1d1ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jody Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MN 55744 (Online Only)
I have been working in nursing since 2001. My approach is all about person-focused and evidence-based care, with a strong belief in the power of a great therapeutic alliance between us. As an autistic, nonbinary, queer psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring my big heart with a unique and personal touch to my practice.
I have been working in nursing since 2001. My approach is all about person-focused and evidence-based care, with a strong belief in the power of a great therapeutic alliance between us. As an autistic, nonbinary, queer psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring my big heart with a unique and personal touch to my practice.
![Photo of Tracy Zimmerman-DeSchepper ( Modern Mojo), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a5108d-bced-47e6-9308-d0ac9c34b32c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tracy Zimmerman-DeSchepper ( Modern Mojo)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Fom inception, we set out to design a different kind of mental health clinic than any in the area. Our idea started with this statement "A mental health facility should not be depressing or resemble a sterile hospital-type setting." Our office will be an inviting, colorful, interactive, encouraging, and uplifting place clients want to go to. The difference lies in how we treat our clients. From the nervous initial phone call to the joyful last session, our clients are not a number in our system. As a team, we work together towards better health and wellness for each of our clients. We strive for our patients to be independent
Fom inception, we set out to design a different kind of mental health clinic than any in the area. Our idea started with this statement "A mental health facility should not be depressing or resemble a sterile hospital-type setting." Our office will be an inviting, colorful, interactive, encouraging, and uplifting place clients want to go to. The difference lies in how we treat our clients. From the nervous initial phone call to the joyful last session, our clients are not a number in our system. As a team, we work together towards better health and wellness for each of our clients. We strive for our patients to be independent
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6b5ceb5-4e74-4053-9a89-0dc330bf389a/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55808
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Minnesota for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Minnesota for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8efd7a5d-135b-41e0-8cde-81c19cf66e56/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Rhea del Rosario, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0ffe6ef-d7a9-4e29-b8cc-28d0ad81f30f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rhea is a licensed mental health nurse practitioner with 4 years of experience working with individuals and families in Minnesota. She believes in a holistic approach to mental wellness, incorporating mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques into her practice. Rhea is passionate about helping her clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, and dementia. Rhea is also an experienced nurse with 15 years of work experience.
Rhea is a licensed mental health nurse practitioner with 4 years of experience working with individuals and families in Minnesota. She believes in a holistic approach to mental wellness, incorporating mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques into her practice. Rhea is passionate about helping her clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, and dementia. Rhea is also an experienced nurse with 15 years of work experience.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ce60c2e-612e-43c8-b805-78447b5af032/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, MN 55802
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a389ca6-4aa3-4c6b-8246-1605fa7d3a1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Allison Sikorsky - At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2db59450-ddee-4268-9d4c-149796063b68/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55802
Schedule online: go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com and click "get started" to see appointment times available. Online telepsychiatry with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This telepsychiatry practice focuses on caring for you from your home or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. With over a decade of psychiatry experience, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar 1 and 2, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, postpartum depression, and various conditions. Telepsychiatry has given people with agoraphobia a way to heal. Stay home, stay well, but still get care.
Schedule online: go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com and click "get started" to see appointment times available. Online telepsychiatry with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This telepsychiatry practice focuses on caring for you from your home or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. With over a decade of psychiatry experience, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar 1 and 2, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, postpartum depression, and various conditions. Telepsychiatry has given people with agoraphobia a way to heal. Stay home, stay well, but still get care.
![Photo of Naomi Koenig - Selah Wellness Clinic LLC, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, SANE, ART, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e91fe838-14ae-476a-ba75-cd2334208a6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Selah Wellness Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, SANE, ART
Verified Verified
Sandstone, MN 55072
We work with you on your health. We are here to help you, walk with you on your journey and help you to feel better.
We work with you on your health. We are here to help you, walk with you on your journey and help you to feel better.
![Photo of Karen Webster, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba0c3065-f34d-427d-abdb-d17d687dc7c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hibbing, MN 55746
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. I can help!
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. I can help!
See more therapy options for Virginia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Virginia, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Virginia, MN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Substance Use |
100% | Alcohol Use |
50% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Medicaid |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Virginia, MN see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Virginia?
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.