Psychiatrists in Anamosa, IA
![Photo of Angela Morris, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/337e4e0c-6392-436a-a10d-322cf1b44bca/2/320x400.png)
Angela Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anamosa, IA 52205
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified medication provider who specializes in the diagnosing and medication management of ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder), Autism, Schizophrenia and Behavioral Disorders. I help clients through the lifespan (3+) and have over a decade of experience in healthcare assisting individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
I am a board certified medication provider who specializes in the diagnosing and medication management of ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder), Autism, Schizophrenia and Behavioral Disorders. I help clients through the lifespan (3+) and have over a decade of experience in healthcare assisting individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
![Photo of Megan Engen, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2721ca7a-a6da-49a5-ae55-b01ba7aa012a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Engen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anamosa, IA 52205
Currently accepting new clients! Megan has over 10 years experience as a nurse in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. Megan has been a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2022, and has experience in the community mental health setting.
Currently accepting new clients! Megan has over 10 years experience as a nurse in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings. Megan has been a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2022, and has experience in the community mental health setting.
![Photo of Emily Reiter, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3eaf97e-8090-4c80-bfce-b4bb30656469/1/320x400.jpeg)
I began my career in 2006 as a social worker in Dubuque. For several years I worked side-by-side with adults and children diagnosed with significant mental health disorders. I then decided to pursue a nursing degree, which led to earning a Master's in Nursing in 2021. Throughout my nursing education, I continued to work in the mental health field in various capacities, realizing this was the specialty that spoke to my heart. Because of my extensive background in the mental health field, I'm able to understand, empathize and relate to my clients; as well as see all of their potential in achieving their goals.
I began my career in 2006 as a social worker in Dubuque. For several years I worked side-by-side with adults and children diagnosed with significant mental health disorders. I then decided to pursue a nursing degree, which led to earning a Master's in Nursing in 2021. Throughout my nursing education, I continued to work in the mental health field in various capacities, realizing this was the specialty that spoke to my heart. Because of my extensive background in the mental health field, I'm able to understand, empathize and relate to my clients; as well as see all of their potential in achieving their goals.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jeanne-Marie Fournier, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/331ae4b2-9f8a-4b88-a15a-8c3987bbd7a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeanne-Marie Fournier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Jeanne-Marie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals aged 8 and older. No referrals are needed and accepting new clients. She takes time to listen to her patient's concerns to work towards their overall goals. She uses a holistic approach incorporating trauma-informed care, empathy, and compassion to treat the whole person with traditional medicine. Our office is located at 42 7th Ave SW, Ste 100 (Mott Blvd), Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
Jeanne-Marie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals aged 8 and older. No referrals are needed and accepting new clients. She takes time to listen to her patient's concerns to work towards their overall goals. She uses a holistic approach incorporating trauma-informed care, empathy, and compassion to treat the whole person with traditional medicine. Our office is located at 42 7th Ave SW, Ste 100 (Mott Blvd), Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
![Photo of Jennifer Nelsen, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/655cf69a-1294-4900-aa33-84bc29016cd8/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer Nelsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (Online Only)
Jennifer is accepting NEW Patients 14+. Jennifer is here to hold space during times of crisis. She wants to help you build a treatment plan with your goals in mind. She finds meaning in helping patients who are in times of struggle, as well as, those who are ready to move from feeling “good enough” to feeling truly like themselves again.
Jennifer is accepting NEW Patients 14+. Jennifer is here to hold space during times of crisis. She wants to help you build a treatment plan with your goals in mind. She finds meaning in helping patients who are in times of struggle, as well as, those who are ready to move from feeling “good enough” to feeling truly like themselves again.
![Photo of Elizabeth Brake, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86e72934-e7af-494c-aee8-53c01d10327a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Brake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Dubuque, IA 52001 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, CAN GET NEW PATIENTS IN WITHIN A WEEK! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, CAN GET NEW PATIENTS IN WITHIN A WEEK! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Kayla Lea Carlsten - Calamity Rose Ranch, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5601c2e1-43c1-40ad-867d-d0a257c09e8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking a holistic approach to mental health. They need a safe space to express feelings, professional guidance to manage symptoms, and practical coping strategies. Their goals are to reduce anxiety and depression, build self-esteem, and improve relationships. They come to Calamity Rose Ranch for the unique blend of professional therapy and the healing presence of therapy animals, aiming for mental balance and a fulfilling life. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to make positive changes.
Our ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking a holistic approach to mental health. They need a safe space to express feelings, professional guidance to manage symptoms, and practical coping strategies. Their goals are to reduce anxiety and depression, build self-esteem, and improve relationships. They come to Calamity Rose Ranch for the unique blend of professional therapy and the healing presence of therapy animals, aiming for mental balance and a fulfilling life. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to make positive changes.
![Photo of Abby Burns-Owens, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9d7312a-9c56-462b-8b0e-b3e192a9688e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abby Burns-Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
I can see ages 6 years old and up. I work with all populations including children and adolescents, adults, older adults, and LGBTQ+.
I can see ages 6 years old and up. I work with all populations including children and adolescents, adults, older adults, and LGBTQ+.
![Photo of Andrew Foster, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffb76d77-afd8-4d76-b648-bf854f59bcf0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
To quote Lady Gaga, just because you were “born this way” or perhaps, experienced a trauma along the way, you do not need to hide yourself. Mental health impacts each and every person at some point in our lives. As someone who has personally experienced episodes of mental distress, I realize it can be debilitating and interfere with reaching our life goals and dreams if left untreated. Fortunately, mental illness can be effectively managed with a variety of interventions. I am passionate about helping those in my care overcome feelings of mental distress, maximize their quality of life, and attain their goals and dreams.
To quote Lady Gaga, just because you were “born this way” or perhaps, experienced a trauma along the way, you do not need to hide yourself. Mental health impacts each and every person at some point in our lives. As someone who has personally experienced episodes of mental distress, I realize it can be debilitating and interfere with reaching our life goals and dreams if left untreated. Fortunately, mental illness can be effectively managed with a variety of interventions. I am passionate about helping those in my care overcome feelings of mental distress, maximize their quality of life, and attain their goals and dreams.
![Photo of Davonna Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/820ab1bd-ef01-4e72-b5c2-e06c120c0f37/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
![Photo of Jenna Z Berendzen, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae249659-248d-405e-832c-4a20ddde755b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Z Berendzen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Jenna has extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health has helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International.
Jenna has extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health has helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International.
![Photo of Claudine Onsongo - Health Growth Behavioral Services LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca9e5d9f-555b-460a-ab82-a477dc475aca/2/320x400.png)
Health Growth Behavioral Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50703
At Health Growth Behavioral Services, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team members work together to provide comprehensive and evidence-based treatment to our patients. We offer initial and follow up evaluations, medication management, and other services to help our patients achieve their goals. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
At Health Growth Behavioral Services, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team members work together to provide comprehensive and evidence-based treatment to our patients. We offer initial and follow up evaluations, medication management, and other services to help our patients achieve their goals. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
![Photo of Elizabeth Homan - Mariposa Psychiatric Center, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5489a960-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
![Photo of Kristina (Krissy) Gates, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55c238f8-c248-4acb-b96a-4aa268d3ea71/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina (Krissy) Gates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Krissy’s areas of specialty include working with ages 5+, LGBTQ+ community, crisis management, substance abuse (Medication Assisted Treatment-30client limit), ADHD, PTSD, mood, anxiety, and schizophrenia disorders.
Krissy’s areas of specialty include working with ages 5+, LGBTQ+ community, crisis management, substance abuse (Medication Assisted Treatment-30client limit), ADHD, PTSD, mood, anxiety, and schizophrenia disorders.
![Photo of Tami Hill, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cbfcbf7-e95a-425b-96ea-37f1abbfac71/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients. Tami works with individuals ages 14 to 64. It is important to her to help break the stigma around mental health in general. She is a compassionate and down to earth individual, giving her a natural ability to form and build relationships with others.
Accepting new clients. Tami works with individuals ages 14 to 64. It is important to her to help break the stigma around mental health in general. She is a compassionate and down to earth individual, giving her a natural ability to form and build relationships with others.
![Photo of Rosaline During, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/025f24d8-b367-4823-b76c-1cd5cde8c882/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rosaline During
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients! We can usually get new patients in within a WEEK! We specialize in high quality telemedicine, personalized ADHD treatment, treatment for anxiety, PTSD, depression, OCD, and some substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
Accepting NEW Patients! We can usually get new patients in within a WEEK! We specialize in high quality telemedicine, personalized ADHD treatment, treatment for anxiety, PTSD, depression, OCD, and some substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Shelby Leppin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cc642e1-f57c-4c61-bf1d-eab2a8caf789/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Shelby Leppin, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I see patients in Iowa via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD using motivational interviewing, EMDR, and alternative behavioral therapy to help my clients learn how to regulate their emotions and reach their goals. My approach is determined by the goals of the individual client. I focus on helping clients learn how to regulate their emotions and understand their brain pattern.
My name is Shelby Leppin, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I see patients in Iowa via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD using motivational interviewing, EMDR, and alternative behavioral therapy to help my clients learn how to regulate their emotions and reach their goals. My approach is determined by the goals of the individual client. I focus on helping clients learn how to regulate their emotions and understand their brain pattern.
![Photo of Kelly Jo Scheffert, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21d87716-55c0-4b9e-a621-df47c40dd48b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Jo Scheffert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
![Photo of Germaine Mbuh, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0f07ba7-bf05-46c9-8b17-ea31b9c7bcb1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Germaine Mbuh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving children, adults and the senior population. Professionally, I have worked in diverse roles in numerous care settings. Throughout these years of experience, I have faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. In these care situations, I developed an indomitable passion for mental health, ultimately leading me to pursue a master’s degree in nursing to obtain my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluations.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving children, adults and the senior population. Professionally, I have worked in diverse roles in numerous care settings. Throughout these years of experience, I have faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. In these care situations, I developed an indomitable passion for mental health, ultimately leading me to pursue a master’s degree in nursing to obtain my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluations.
![Photo of Breanna Millsap, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dd2ef69-2a2d-4c61-b4c3-9932173e4d9d/1/320x400.png)
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (Online Only)
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap, and schedule your free consultation today!
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap, and schedule your free consultation today!
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Nearby Searches for Anamosa
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Anamosa, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Anamosa, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Humana |
100% | HealthPartners of MN and WI |
How Psychiatrists in Anamosa, IA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Anamosa?
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.