Psychiatrists in Burlington, IA

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Photo of Jennifer Griffith, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
West Burlington, IA 52655  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Jennifer Griffith, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with Cultivate Joy Psychiatry. Why Choose Cultivate Joy? Online sessions from the comfort of your home or office. Flexible scheduling with early morning or evening hours available. A caring approach where taking the time to listen to your needs is priority. Focus on working together to find a path to better mental health that works for you. All-in-one, psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy and addressing lifestyle changes!
Hello! I am Jennifer Griffith, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with Cultivate Joy Psychiatry. Why Choose Cultivate Joy? Online sessions from the comfort of your home or office. Flexible scheduling with early morning or evening hours available. A caring approach where taking the time to listen to your needs is priority. Focus on working together to find a path to better mental health that works for you. All-in-one, psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy and addressing lifestyle changes!
(319) 367-3933 View (319) 367-3933

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Maria Lynn Sonnack, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Maria Lynn Sonnack
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52807
I truly enjoy working with all psychiatric diagnoses, but I especially enjoy working with borderline personality disorder and facilitating STEPPS group for this group of patients. I also have a strong passion in treating child and adult ADHD. I firmly believe in psychiatric wellness and work with my patients from a “whole person” approach to not only treat their illness with medication, but also therapy, good nutrition and general health.
I truly enjoy working with all psychiatric diagnoses, but I especially enjoy working with borderline personality disorder and facilitating STEPPS group for this group of patients. I also have a strong passion in treating child and adult ADHD. I firmly believe in psychiatric wellness and work with my patients from a “whole person” approach to not only treat their illness with medication, but also therapy, good nutrition and general health.
(319) 595-4327 View (319) 595-4327
Photo of Denay Kelly - Holistic Wellness & Psychiatry, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Wellness & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
With over 38 years of healthcare experience, I enjoy helping patients become the best versions of themselves. I am kind, understanding and easy to talk to.
With over 38 years of healthcare experience, I enjoy helping patients become the best versions of themselves. I am kind, understanding and easy to talk to.
(319) 264-2982 View (319) 264-2982
Photo of Kristina (Krissy) Gates, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristina (Krissy) Gates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
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.
(319) 408-8455 View (319) 408-8455
Photo of Noel Adams, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, SANE, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Noel Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, SANE
Verified Verified
Marion, IA 52302
Now able to accept new patients! Noel Adams is a board certified medication provider specializing in Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder) ADHD, Depression and other Mood Disorders, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, and Behavioral Disorders. Noel provides care to patients across a lifespan (ages 6+) with over a decade of experience in healthcare helping individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
Now able to accept new patients! Noel Adams is a board certified medication provider specializing in Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder) ADHD, Depression and other Mood Disorders, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, and Behavioral Disorders. Noel provides care to patients across a lifespan (ages 6+) with over a decade of experience in healthcare helping individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
(319) 261-2292 View (319) 261-2292
Photo of Jeanne-Marie Fournier, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(319) 448-3805 View (319) 448-3805
Photo of Chelsea Davis, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsea Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807
You are an independent individual who deserves your very own unique treatment plan. Starting from the first day we meet, I will work with you to develop that medication plan, making adjustments along the way as needed. I promise to listen to your needs and to only make decisions based on trusted research along with your continued input.
You are an independent individual who deserves your very own unique treatment plan. Starting from the first day we meet, I will work with you to develop that medication plan, making adjustments along the way as needed. I promise to listen to your needs and to only make decisions based on trusted research along with your continued input.
(563) 853-8250 View (563) 853-8250
Photo of Kristina Flanagan, MSN, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristina Flanagan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
I practice patient centered care and see each patient as an individual not a diagnosis. I provided a thorough assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and help guide you to an individualized treatment plan.
I practice patient centered care and see each patient as an individual not a diagnosis. I provided a thorough assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and help guide you to an individualized treatment plan.
(319) 536-1228 View (319) 536-1228
Photo of Maria I Brickner - Mindful Care, ARNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindful Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Fairfield, IA 52556
If you're dealing with constant worry, low mood, or trouble with focus and organization, I'm here to help. I provide a caring space to talk about your issues, offer practical advice, and support you through your struggles. You don’t have to go through this alone.
If you're dealing with constant worry, low mood, or trouble with focus and organization, I'm here to help. I provide a caring space to talk about your issues, offer practical advice, and support you through your struggles. You don’t have to go through this alone.
(641) 381-5962 View (641) 381-5962
Photo of Laurie McCormick, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Laurie McCormick
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
I’m an integrative/holistic psychiatrist and family physician with functional medicine as well as psychedelic-assisted therapy training. I’ve been in practice for 20 years (post-residency, as a tenure-track academic research scientist and educator at the University of Iowa College of Medicine, then in private practice in St Thomas, USVI, and Iowa City. I’m excited to now be able to offer a variety of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy options to more people suffering from a variety of conditions including anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorders.
I’m an integrative/holistic psychiatrist and family physician with functional medicine as well as psychedelic-assisted therapy training. I’ve been in practice for 20 years (post-residency, as a tenure-track academic research scientist and educator at the University of Iowa College of Medicine, then in private practice in St Thomas, USVI, and Iowa City. I’m excited to now be able to offer a variety of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy options to more people suffering from a variety of conditions including anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorders.
(319) 220-0134 View (319) 220-0134
Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marion, IA 52302  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
(319) 474-5607 View (319) 474-5607
Photo of Anna McMullen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anna McMullen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402  (Online Only)
My name is Anna McMullen, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I use a holistic treatment approach to mental health care, recognizing the importance of physical and psychological health. I encourage healthy lifestyle choices and habits to complement pharmacological treatment. I aim to provide a positive and holistic approach to medication management. I think it is important to find balance in your life and it starts with improving self-esteem and good self-care. I use a person-centered approach meaning you are in charge; we go at your speed and things should always be within your comfort level.
My name is Anna McMullen, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I use a holistic treatment approach to mental health care, recognizing the importance of physical and psychological health. I encourage healthy lifestyle choices and habits to complement pharmacological treatment. I aim to provide a positive and holistic approach to medication management. I think it is important to find balance in your life and it starts with improving self-esteem and good self-care. I use a person-centered approach meaning you are in charge; we go at your speed and things should always be within your comfort level.
(319) 257-2412 View (319) 257-2412
Photo of Kayla Lea Carlsten - Calamity Rose Ranch, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Calamity Rose Ranch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Muscatine, IA 52761
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.
(563) 261-4434 View (563) 261-4434
Photo of Emily Freeman, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Emily works with children and adolescents 4 to 20 years of age. She has extensive experience managing symptoms of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance use disorders.
Emily works with children and adolescents 4 to 20 years of age. She has extensive experience managing symptoms of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance use disorders.
(319) 220-6717 View (319) 220-6717
Photo of Germaine Mbuh, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Germaine Mbuh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 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.
(319) 469-8632 View (319) 469-8632
Photo of Nkechi Ezema - Patterns Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52401  (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING new virtual patients with same-week appointments. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illnesses is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
NOW ACCEPTING new virtual patients with same-week appointments. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illnesses is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
(319) 220-6751 View (319) 220-6751
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marion, IA 52302  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(319) 408-8383 View (319) 408-8383
Photo of Lindsay Schock, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsay Schock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Lindsay Schock, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner at Covenant Family Solutions at the Cedar Rapids location. She works with individuals ages 12 and up. She especially enjoys helping those who experience Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder), Depression and other Mood Disorders, ADHD, Behavioral Disorders, Trauma, Psychotic Disorders, and Bipolar Disorders. She just relocated from Louisville, Kentucky, and has experience triaging clients in emergency psychiatric services.
Lindsay Schock, ARNP, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner at Covenant Family Solutions at the Cedar Rapids location. She works with individuals ages 12 and up. She especially enjoys helping those who experience Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder), Depression and other Mood Disorders, ADHD, Behavioral Disorders, Trauma, Psychotic Disorders, and Bipolar Disorders. She just relocated from Louisville, Kentucky, and has experience triaging clients in emergency psychiatric services.
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Photo of Aminata Wane, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aminata Wane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 10 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field, including child, adult, and geriatric care in inpatient and outpatient settings. I am very passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 10 years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field, including child, adult, and geriatric care in inpatient and outpatient settings. I am very passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan.
(319) 264-2057 View (319) 264-2057
Photo of Megan Engen, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Engen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(319) 224-0722 View (319) 224-0722

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Number of Psychiatrists in Burlington, IA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Burlington, IA who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in Burlington, IA see their clients

2% Online Only
1% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Burlington?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.