Psychiatrists in Farley, IA
![Photo of Earlene Angell - A Beautiful Mind, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/524a83f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
A Beautiful Mind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farley, IA 52046 (Online Only)
As an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner with a board certification in Psychiatric Mental Health, I am proud to be the founder of A Beautiful Mind, INC. I am pursuing my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) while completing a functional psychiatry fellowship. My approach to care extends beyond traditional Western psychiatry. I focus on the root causes of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, and more.
As an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner with a board certification in Psychiatric Mental Health, I am proud to be the founder of A Beautiful Mind, INC. I am pursuing my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) while completing a functional psychiatry fellowship. My approach to care extends beyond traditional Western psychiatry. I focus on the root causes of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, and more.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Shyrl Hoag, ANRP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e5c3d2c-f631-4573-abf7-c6ba5165ab32/2/320x400.jpeg)
From time to time, our lives take an unexpected turn for the worse. We may suffer from emotional illness, or experience conflict, loss, misfortune. Trauma and chronic disability may affect our loved ones or us. Life adversities may temporarily overwhelm our ability to carry on. We may turn pessimistic, doubtful, and hopeless. Feel demoralized, worried, and anxious. Suffer sadness, distress, and anguish. Become angry and resentful. Feel distrustful and quarrel with others. At such times, we could benefit from treatment, including psychotherapy treatment, including psychotherapy, and prescription medicine.
From time to time, our lives take an unexpected turn for the worse. We may suffer from emotional illness, or experience conflict, loss, misfortune. Trauma and chronic disability may affect our loved ones or us. Life adversities may temporarily overwhelm our ability to carry on. We may turn pessimistic, doubtful, and hopeless. Feel demoralized, worried, and anxious. Suffer sadness, distress, and anguish. Become angry and resentful. Feel distrustful and quarrel with others. At such times, we could benefit from treatment, including psychotherapy treatment, including psychotherapy, and prescription medicine.
![Photo of Elizabeth Brake - Bliss Psychiatry, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bc72d31-5cd1-4021-b5c1-88357b452de6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bliss Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52246 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
Accepting NEW patients, can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Laurie McCormick, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff5f4a2d-eb95-4aea-9bb6-c16eea39d5a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Andrew Merande - Baraka Behavioral Health (BBH), LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e28bd1c9-1f89-4bbf-978c-6504a32aa564/3/320x400.jpeg)
Baraka Behavioral Health (BBH), LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!
![Photo of Neelam Thomas, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9fb24bf-16f2-4276-bdd4-d4f1df44b2f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neelam Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
Neelam is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified in children, adolescent, and adult populations. Her goal is to partner with her patients for the best mental wellness outcome. Neelam has a wide range of experience including acute and crisis inpatient care. Her credentials include a BSN and MSN in Nursing at Allen College and a BSN in Psychology at Iowa State University.
Neelam is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified in children, adolescent, and adult populations. Her goal is to partner with her patients for the best mental wellness outcome. Neelam has a wide range of experience including acute and crisis inpatient care. Her credentials include a BSN and MSN in Nursing at Allen College and a BSN in Psychology at Iowa State University.
![Photo of Esther Uangbaoje - Hecen Healthcare, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cf89d4b-dbff-4955-87a2-2339a7f1c569/2/320x400.png)
Hecen Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240 (Online Only)
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation virtually. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation virtually. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
![Photo of Tonia Ajamu - Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f74e451b-f3df-45b5-90d8-dae925e97b5c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Breakthrough Mental Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807 (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.
![Photo of Christopher Okiishi, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/deb8307d-adbf-46a7-bd7a-d81df7c72261/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a third generation Iowa Mental Health Professional, I enjoy working with people of any background, in any circumstance, and with any mental health concerns. I have specialty training in working with children, adolescents as well as full training in working with adults.
As a third generation Iowa Mental Health Professional, I enjoy working with people of any background, in any circumstance, and with any mental health concerns. I have specialty training in working with children, adolescents as well as full training in working with adults.
![Photo of Maria Lynn Sonnack, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f106a56d-3c76-4b24-a2e3-efab5e2f2ec2/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Anna K Shudzeka, PMHNP, -, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/686a523b-efc4-4a53-b11f-f1e65ac2af1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna K Shudzeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my goal is to support your well-being with compassionate and personalized care. I understand that everyone is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. Using proven treatments, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, I focus on your overall health. I am dedicated to professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical practice, helping you face mental health challenges. My aim is to empower you to regain control and look forward to a future filled with strength and hope.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my goal is to support your well-being with compassionate and personalized care. I understand that everyone is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. Using proven treatments, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, I focus on your overall health. I am dedicated to professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical practice, helping you face mental health challenges. My aim is to empower you to regain control and look forward to a future filled with strength and hope.
![Photo of Elizabeth Homan - Mariposa Psychiatric Center, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5489a960-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
![Photo of Abbie Kelley, ARNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8be21655-e9cd-42d1-bd86-4a69457dd9fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abbie is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees children and adults for medication management. Areas of interest include depression, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder, and post-partum depression.
Abbie is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees children and adults for medication management. Areas of interest include depression, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder, and post-partum depression.
![Photo of Jennifer Nelsen, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/655cf69a-1294-4900-aa33-84bc29016cd8/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer Nelsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (Online Only)
Jennifer is accepting NEW Patients 14+. Jennifer is here to hold space during times of crisis. She wants to help you build a treatment plan with your goals in mind. She finds meaning in helping patients who are in times of struggle, as well as, those who are ready to move from feeling “good enough” to feeling truly like themselves again.
Jennifer is accepting NEW Patients 14+. Jennifer is here to hold space during times of crisis. She wants to help you build a treatment plan with your goals in mind. She finds meaning in helping patients who are in times of struggle, as well as, those who are ready to move from feeling “good enough” to feeling truly like themselves again.
![Photo of Aminata Wane, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de5c4439-4e96-48bf-90b0-908121b834b3/1/320x400.png)
Aminata Wane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (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.
![Photo of Margaret Butler, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/117d950d-04e8-40da-8156-6a0a66ca1c8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with people ages 6 and up who are coping with mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, and attention deficit disorder. I want to work with people to meet their goals of living their best life, in happiness health and safety. I like to work with people to develop individualized care plans and involve them in understanding the options they have to choose from when developing their care. I hope to establish a relationship based on mutual trust, and care with each of my clients.
I enjoy working with people ages 6 and up who are coping with mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, and attention deficit disorder. I want to work with people to meet their goals of living their best life, in happiness health and safety. I like to work with people to develop individualized care plans and involve them in understanding the options they have to choose from when developing their care. I hope to establish a relationship based on mutual trust, and care with each of my clients.
![Photo of Robin Cook Kopelman, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51fd3e52-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Robin Kopelman is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and is a leading expert in the state of Iowa in the fields of Women’s and Maternal/Perinatal Mental Health. She is passionate about working with women to streamline their care to address their unique preferences and life circumstances. Her expertise includes helping patients make informed decisions about medication use related to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and reproductive hormone status, while offering broader services to all women across adulthood.
Dr. Robin Kopelman is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry and is a leading expert in the state of Iowa in the fields of Women’s and Maternal/Perinatal Mental Health. She is passionate about working with women to streamline their care to address their unique preferences and life circumstances. Her expertise includes helping patients make informed decisions about medication use related to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and reproductive hormone status, while offering broader services to all women across adulthood.
![Photo of Mimi LaCouture, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6c8d2c9-0a39-465d-aee4-7f1130bfd597/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mimi LaCouture
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52803
I'm just like you. At one time, I needed help getting through my days. Some days are harder than others. Some days are brighter than others. Every day has opportunities minute to minute, and any one moment can be life changing. Come, let's meet the moment that can change everything.
I'm just like you. At one time, I needed help getting through my days. Some days are harder than others. Some days are brighter than others. Every day has opportunities minute to minute, and any one moment can be life changing. Come, let's meet the moment that can change everything.
![Photo of Kristina Flanagan, MSN, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9c35a11-b74d-466b-9452-dcb815335088/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![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
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.
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Farley, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Farley, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Borderline Personality (BPD) |
100% | Peer Relationships |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Farley, IA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Farley?
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.