Psychiatrists in Carlisle, IA
Alpha Allied Treatment Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlisle, IA 50047 (Online Only)
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Des Moines University Clinic - Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Norwalk, IA 50211
Dr. Brunia and Abigail Schiltz, PA-C are well-versed in the newest and best treatment options for medication management for adults experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety and panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit-hyperactive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and mood and anxiety disorders related to pregnancy. Our care is trauma-informed and focused on you and your path to well-being.
Dr. Brunia and Abigail Schiltz, PA-C are well-versed in the newest and best treatment options for medication management for adults experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety and panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit-hyperactive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and mood and anxiety disorders related to pregnancy. Our care is trauma-informed and focused on you and your path to well-being.
Please Note: Ellie practices in IA and MM. Ellie is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota. She works primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults with special interests in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression and anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Ellie believes in advocating for her clients' academic success and has an understanding of the impact mental health can have on educational experience
Please Note: Ellie practices in IA and MM. Ellie is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota. She works primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults with special interests in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression and anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Ellie believes in advocating for her clients' academic success and has an understanding of the impact mental health can have on educational experience
Coherent Care: Women's & Maternal Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BSN, MEd, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50317
I serve teen girls, collegebound, pregnant, postpartum, professional, and "everything-in-between" woman. Ditch the anxiety and bad vibes like an Ex. And find YOU. I offer medication management, vitamin injections, female enhancements, and overall good vibes you need in a professional.
I serve teen girls, collegebound, pregnant, postpartum, professional, and "everything-in-between" woman. Ditch the anxiety and bad vibes like an Ex. And find YOU. I offer medication management, vitamin injections, female enhancements, and overall good vibes you need in a professional.
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.
Embrace Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50319 (Online Only)
I'm Clint Webb. Through my telehealth psychiatric practice, I help people experiencing challenges stemming from trauma, mental health issues, family dynamics, or substance abuse. I utilize a wide variety of assessments when working with clients to understand what they're going through. I help my patients reach their goals using evidence-based treatments that include medication management, therapy and counseling. I'll help you gain the coping and communication skills to live a healthier, happier life.
I'm Clint Webb. Through my telehealth psychiatric practice, I help people experiencing challenges stemming from trauma, mental health issues, family dynamics, or substance abuse. I utilize a wide variety of assessments when working with clients to understand what they're going through. I help my patients reach their goals using evidence-based treatments that include medication management, therapy and counseling. I'll help you gain the coping and communication skills to live a healthier, happier life.
Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50317 (Online Only)
Your mental well-being matters. Discover a safe space where healing begins, Empathetic support, personalized strategies, and a journey towards a brighter tomorrow await you at our practice. Take the first step towards a healthier mind. You deserve the care you need. Together, let's unlock your potential. I am a dedicated patient focused provider that will always seek to embrace and utilize traditional as well as innovative treatments to help you live an optimal life. I will also encourage you to participate in your treatment goals, which will enhance your mental, physical, and social wellness.
Your mental well-being matters. Discover a safe space where healing begins, Empathetic support, personalized strategies, and a journey towards a brighter tomorrow await you at our practice. Take the first step towards a healthier mind. You deserve the care you need. Together, let's unlock your potential. I am a dedicated patient focused provider that will always seek to embrace and utilize traditional as well as innovative treatments to help you live an optimal life. I will also encourage you to participate in your treatment goals, which will enhance your mental, physical, and social wellness.
Elizabeth Brake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (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.
Candice Boyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50317 (Online Only)
From the go, my priority is to establish a patient relationship of trust, feeling at ease with open expression, as if conversing with someone they trust. It is a profound honor that they have entrusted me with guiding them through a vulnerable period in their life. My patients have a central role in shaping their treatment plans, catering to their needs. Navigating the unknown has required the development of numerous strategies to find the root cause(s) of their concerns. Meticulous attention to the nuances and patterns can profoundly impact outcomes, and it is incredible to witness the rekindling of hope where it was once lost.
From the go, my priority is to establish a patient relationship of trust, feeling at ease with open expression, as if conversing with someone they trust. It is a profound honor that they have entrusted me with guiding them through a vulnerable period in their life. My patients have a central role in shaping their treatment plans, catering to their needs. Navigating the unknown has required the development of numerous strategies to find the root cause(s) of their concerns. Meticulous attention to the nuances and patterns can profoundly impact outcomes, and it is incredible to witness the rekindling of hope where it was once lost.
I worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner for 8 years in urgent care prior to beginning my journey in mental wellness practice. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Special interests include ADHD, depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
I worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner for 8 years in urgent care prior to beginning my journey in mental wellness practice. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Special interests include ADHD, depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. 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.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. 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.
Jennifer Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50307 (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!
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Sandra Ramsey | Spravato Treatment Provider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50320
My practice is integrated care for adults (psychiatric medication management, psychedelic esketamine (Spravato) treatments, primary care, weight loss injection therapy and asthetics). I am board certified in medical and psychiatric care. I understand that you are coming to me at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. I will listen to your concerns without judgement and provide a safe space to help you overcome your unique challenges. I am here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood.
My practice is integrated care for adults (psychiatric medication management, psychedelic esketamine (Spravato) treatments, primary care, weight loss injection therapy and asthetics). I am board certified in medical and psychiatric care. I understand that you are coming to me at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. I will listen to your concerns without judgement and provide a safe space to help you overcome your unique challenges. I am here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood.
Robert Husemann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I enjoy working with new clients and finding ways to help improve their daily life. Many issues can be addressed with medications, therapy, and lifestyle modification.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I enjoy working with new clients and finding ways to help improve their daily life. Many issues can be addressed with medications, therapy, and lifestyle modification.
Mind Connection Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT THIS TIME***Welcome to Mind Connection Behavioral Health where your mental health is our priority. We are committed to providing you with exceptional mental health and psychiatric services, and delivering high quality care to patients of all ages. Our goal is to make you feel valued and not numbered.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT THIS TIME***Welcome to Mind Connection Behavioral Health where your mental health is our priority. We are committed to providing you with exceptional mental health and psychiatric services, and delivering high quality care to patients of all ages. Our goal is to make you feel valued and not numbered.
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50317 (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.
Rosaline During
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (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.
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50317 (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.
Charlotte Toms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50319
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis and medication management. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
Your strength has led you here in this moment to take the next step in embracing a new path, a different future. I’m here to help guide you - through psychiatric evaluation/diagnosis and medication management. You don't need to keep self-medicating with technology, social media, food, and alcohol to feel happy, dull your emotional pain or shame, or escape your feelings. Wake up feeling rested, worthy, and motivated. Reconnect with others and find joy in the simple things again. Experience peace in your life by making healthier choices and building healthier relationships with yourself and others.
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Carlisle, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Carlisle, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Carlisle, IA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Carlisle?
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.