Psychiatrists in Council Bluffs, IA
![Photo of Athena Clare Fertig, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24091d13-cf61-4a7e-b105-07c8a25da5e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Athena Clare Fertig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Accepting new patients! I offer in person and telehealth visits and I am fully licensed in Iowa and Nebraska. My mission is to provide affordable, holistic, compassionate and comprehensive care. Now accepting many insurance plans; I also offer sliding scale option for self-pay. I take a Holistic approach, which may include referrals for therapy, nutritional counseling, ruling out environmental and medical problems that may cause symptoms, genetic testing when needed, and medications to target symptoms. I invite you to contact my office for an initial consultation.
Accepting new patients! I offer in person and telehealth visits and I am fully licensed in Iowa and Nebraska. My mission is to provide affordable, holistic, compassionate and comprehensive care. Now accepting many insurance plans; I also offer sliding scale option for self-pay. I take a Holistic approach, which may include referrals for therapy, nutritional counseling, ruling out environmental and medical problems that may cause symptoms, genetic testing when needed, and medications to target symptoms. I invite you to contact my office for an initial consultation.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc665130-485f-4cdb-80fe-02ef67612e15/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51503 (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.
![Photo of Elizabeth Brake, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/922c8d0a-f769-4933-b7ca-35f071236692/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5acb5746-08da-4c4d-ae19-55d390dd3eef/1/320x400.png)
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51503 (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.
![Photo of Margaret Chipendo, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88d21e48-3358-466f-a064-1e8d6ff69ae0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Chipendo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
I have experience in treating severe mental illness: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, bipolar disorders, major depressive disorder and OCD. I also treat anxiety disorders, including PTSD. ADHD and substance use disorders. By partnering with me, we can evaluate your symptoms and come up with a treatment plan best tailored to your individual needs.
I have experience in treating severe mental illness: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, bipolar disorders, major depressive disorder and OCD. I also treat anxiety disorders, including PTSD. ADHD and substance use disorders. By partnering with me, we can evaluate your symptoms and come up with a treatment plan best tailored to your individual needs.
![Photo of JoAnne I Olsen, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eff215b2-cf56-4e96-8721-07292782d302/2/320x400.jpeg)
JoAnne I Olsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Everyone deserves access to quality mental health services. Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it can be difficult to reach out for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, difficulties in relationships, or grief, make the call or even send a text. Taking the first step toward feeling better will move you in a healing direction.
Everyone deserves access to quality mental health services. Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it can be difficult to reach out for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, difficulties in relationships, or grief, make the call or even send a text. Taking the first step toward feeling better will move you in a healing direction.
![Photo of Charlotte Toms, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4bdb56b-3eec-4600-8c62-3853a75808e0/4/320x400.png)
Charlotte Toms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Council Bluffs, IA 51503
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, medication management, or therapy. 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, medication management, or therapy. 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.
![Photo of Paul M Wilken, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4744c1d6-8f9f-4682-b7da-6276c0d0e270/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paul M Wilken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51501 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I partner with clients of all ages and life experiences. My goal is to be your teammate in finding the simplest and healthiest strategies to allow you to take ownership of your mental health.
I partner with clients of all ages and life experiences. My goal is to be your teammate in finding the simplest and healthiest strategies to allow you to take ownership of your mental health.
![Photo of Rise [Risë | Risa | Reesa] Mitchell, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd77e091-c796-4f8a-b84b-b0a03d061ec1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rise [Risë | Risa | Reesa] Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51502
Not accepting new clients
I believe we all are trying to do the best we can with what we have and know. My treatment philosophy is to help you learn about mental illness, educate about medication options, and support you while you learn coping skills. I want to be a member of your team and make everyday life manageable, meaningful, and rewarding.
I believe we all are trying to do the best we can with what we have and know. My treatment philosophy is to help you learn about mental illness, educate about medication options, and support you while you learn coping skills. I want to be a member of your team and make everyday life manageable, meaningful, and rewarding.
![Photo of Marquetta Williamson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cda276f-692c-4a0f-8391-29fa8de274b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marquetta Williamson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51503
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I believe it's important to get to know you as an individual first. I am passionate about listening to you and working together with you to develop a plan that will best suit you. My initial evaluations are 60 minutes and follow ups are 30 minutes. I have over 5 years of mental health experience and over a decade of experience in the healthcare field. I have taken care of children, adolescents, adults and geriatric clients in acute crisis care who have various mental illness.
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I believe it's important to get to know you as an individual first. I am passionate about listening to you and working together with you to develop a plan that will best suit you. My initial evaluations are 60 minutes and follow ups are 30 minutes. I have over 5 years of mental health experience and over a decade of experience in the healthcare field. I have taken care of children, adolescents, adults and geriatric clients in acute crisis care who have various mental illness.
![Photo of Andrew Martin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a371df58-6365-431f-90ee-45d8faaf1e98/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am experienced and very comfortable working with older children, adolescents/teens, and adults. I become a partner with each patient and listen to what their concerns and issues are. We then create a plan that both of us are comfortable with and feel confident about as we move forward with treatment. For those that are interested in medication treatment options - I am always eager to help patients make decisions related to this, and will provide education on the benefits/risks of each option.
I am experienced and very comfortable working with older children, adolescents/teens, and adults. I become a partner with each patient and listen to what their concerns and issues are. We then create a plan that both of us are comfortable with and feel confident about as we move forward with treatment. For those that are interested in medication treatment options - I am always eager to help patients make decisions related to this, and will provide education on the benefits/risks of each option.
15 Second Videos
Olivier Djoumessi
Zachary Gilliam
Charlotte Toms
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Nesrin Abu Ata, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9686ced5-2986-4915-b77c-512c32bd2680/3/320x400.jpeg)
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
![Photo of Dr. Dorcas Kamau, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f625069a-60d2-42cf-9473-e255d63b2d39/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client base consists of adults, families, and youths seeking to find affordable and accessible mental health treatment services. It includes individuals going through rough periods in their life; have undiagnosed or persistent mental health problems and are seeking to rediscover their inner resilience to persevere. Clients want affordable, convenient, and accessible treatment services to regain control over and improve their overall mental health wellness and that is the goal of New Horizon Mental Health & Wellness. Please click on newhorizonmentalhealth.net to schedule your new mental health evaluation appointment.
My ideal client base consists of adults, families, and youths seeking to find affordable and accessible mental health treatment services. It includes individuals going through rough periods in their life; have undiagnosed or persistent mental health problems and are seeking to rediscover their inner resilience to persevere. Clients want affordable, convenient, and accessible treatment services to regain control over and improve their overall mental health wellness and that is the goal of New Horizon Mental Health & Wellness. Please click on newhorizonmentalhealth.net to schedule your new mental health evaluation appointment.
See more therapy options for Council Bluffs
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Council Bluffs, IA
10+
Psychiatrists in Council Bluffs, IA who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
91% | ADHD |
91% | Trauma and PTSD |
91% | Sleep or Insomnia |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Suicidal Ideation |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
90% | Optum |
80% | United Medical Resources (UMR) |
How Psychiatrists in Council Bluffs, IA see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Council Bluffs?
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.