Psychiatrists in Fort Dodge, IA
![Photo of Holly McClintock, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68eb846b-0a60-4b00-99eb-b43ad0e488b1/2/320x400.png)
Holly McClintock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Dodge, IA 50501
Holly believes in the importance of establishing a therapeutic relationship ensuring that the patient feels safe, comfortable, valued and heard when presenting with mental health concerns. She will educate and collaborate with the patient when formulating the treatment plan which fosters a team approach to achieve the patient's goals. During the treatment process, Holly will consistently provide compassionate, knowledgeable and holistic care to improve overall health and wellness. Holly is passionate and strives to make a difference in patient's lives. She would be grateful for the opportunity to help you feel happier and healthier.
Holly believes in the importance of establishing a therapeutic relationship ensuring that the patient feels safe, comfortable, valued and heard when presenting with mental health concerns. She will educate and collaborate with the patient when formulating the treatment plan which fosters a team approach to achieve the patient's goals. During the treatment process, Holly will consistently provide compassionate, knowledgeable and holistic care to improve overall health and wellness. Holly is passionate and strives to make a difference in patient's lives. She would be grateful for the opportunity to help you feel happier and healthier.
![Photo of Maria Consuelo Lozano Celis - Maria Lozano MD, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47878764-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Dreamwork. Please visit my website www.marialozanomd.com for more information.
Integrative Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Dreamwork. Please visit my website www.marialozanomd.com for more information.
![Photo of Augusta Williams - CoreHealthPsych, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08a12eb1-ca8e-4138-ad1e-3670133417c0/1/320x400.png)
CoreHealthPsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Dodge, IA 50501 (Online Only)
We are a virtual-psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient telehealth and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgmental environment.
We are a virtual-psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient telehealth and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgmental environment.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jodi Henning, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5113f777-36ad-4fbf-b0df-24fdf792b179/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jodi Henning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who provides mental health care to all ages. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and treatment options to improve symptomology of mental illness and promote self-efficacy. I bring over ten years of emergency and psychiatric nursing to my practice. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental environment. I value the importance of building lasting relationships through a working relationship.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who provides mental health care to all ages. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and treatment options to improve symptomology of mental illness and promote self-efficacy. I bring over ten years of emergency and psychiatric nursing to my practice. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental environment. I value the importance of building lasting relationships through a working relationship.
![Photo of Ellie Rizor, RN, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44c921e1-58b0-4cd7-986d-20da92619716/1/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Danielle Van Oosbree, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae5f43bb-beb5-4b6b-8dd9-8cb2de80f736/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Danielle Van Oosbree. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I use a client-centered approach with hopes in providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, along with medication management. I create a relaxed atmosphere, so the patient feels comfortable being able to express themselves without feeling judged.
Hi, I'm Danielle Van Oosbree. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I use a client-centered approach with hopes in providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, along with medication management. I create a relaxed atmosphere, so the patient feels comfortable being able to express themselves without feeling judged.
![Photo of Nick Stull - Depression Treatment (TMS / Esketamine treatment) , FPMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98c4153e-e9cc-4bca-8669-5747cba179e4/1/320x400.png)
Depression Treatment (TMS / Esketamine treatment)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMNP
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
Is depression still controlling your life? If you have tried SSRIs and SSNIs but continue to struggle with depression symptoms, adding a course of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may help. TMS is FDA cleared for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, Smoking Sensation and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Esketamine Nasal Spray is also a proven treatment option for depression – especially Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD) and Major Depressive Disorder with suicidal ideation (MDSI). Central Iowa Psychological Services is a certified Spravato® treatment center. Contact us today to book a consultation.
Is depression still controlling your life? If you have tried SSRIs and SSNIs but continue to struggle with depression symptoms, adding a course of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may help. TMS is FDA cleared for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, Smoking Sensation and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Esketamine Nasal Spray is also a proven treatment option for depression – especially Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD) and Major Depressive Disorder with suicidal ideation (MDSI). Central Iowa Psychological Services is a certified Spravato® treatment center. Contact us today to book a consultation.
![Photo of Kelly Jo Scheffert, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21d87716-55c0-4b9e-a621-df47c40dd48b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Jo Scheffert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
![Photo of David Edwin Drake, DO, MTS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44dcdb87-c94d-49f4-b320-d0a9aca80541/3/320x400.jpeg)
Fees are negotiable! As a psychiatrist I have a unique practice where I offer combined talk work (psychotherapy) along with conservative use of medication, where helpful. I work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems perspective, having trained extensively in Bowen Family Systems Theory. A Colorado native, I live in Des Moines, Iowa and provide televideo psychiatry throughout both Iowa and Colorado. I negotiate fees with my patients. I am able to see folks on Medicare if they sign a waiver that allows me to bill them on a self-pay basis. Call me and let's talk.
Fees are negotiable! As a psychiatrist I have a unique practice where I offer combined talk work (psychotherapy) along with conservative use of medication, where helpful. I work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems perspective, having trained extensively in Bowen Family Systems Theory. A Colorado native, I live in Des Moines, Iowa and provide televideo psychiatry throughout both Iowa and Colorado. I negotiate fees with my patients. I am able to see folks on Medicare if they sign a waiver that allows me to bill them on a self-pay basis. Call me and let's talk.
![Photo of Patty Ferlitsch, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/647a26ca-fa22-4c29-858a-9fb725576142/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.
![Photo of Dr. Oluwatosin Adebiyi - Mind Connection Behavioral Health, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed4d91af-2d80-4258-980c-e1e991d8f512/2/320x400.png)
Mind Connection Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
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.
![Photo of Evans K Komen - Cedar Circle Mental Health and wellness, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6bcb1d3-150b-4c3e-839d-33b96a082d8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cedar Circle Mental Health and wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
I am a 2014 graduate of the University of Iowa. I have worked in healthcare for over 20 years in various capacities. I have practiced as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently accept clients 12 years of age and above. I manage a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. I firmly believe in a holistic approach for my clients to achieve optimal mental health.
I am a 2014 graduate of the University of Iowa. I have worked in healthcare for over 20 years in various capacities. I have practiced as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently accept clients 12 years of age and above. I manage a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. I firmly believe in a holistic approach for my clients to achieve optimal mental health.
![Photo of Katie Rousseau, ARNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2a671d9-24b2-47a2-b343-233ad7e4e874/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27e996ec-fc65-4e38-a98b-2cf9ef4514fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
![Photo of Sheela Bhattacharyya - Brightside Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fe61a36-e216-4f4c-8477-f1e00e0efef4/1/320x400.jpeg)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![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 Sarah Schuller, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/810f6a01-6dea-4fbf-bf1d-c8a2757acd4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Schuller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Waitlist for new clients
I have provided assessment and skilled intervention with patients and families for more than 25 years. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient, outpatient, and in-homes settings, and have recently joined the Medication Management Team at Central Iowa Psychological Services. Serving patient ages 5-adulthood to help meet personalized mental health goals.
I have provided assessment and skilled intervention with patients and families for more than 25 years. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient, outpatient, and in-homes settings, and have recently joined the Medication Management Team at Central Iowa Psychological Services. Serving patient ages 5-adulthood to help meet personalized mental health goals.
![Photo of Kellie Bement, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16adf60e-6316-4eb1-a54e-3f543f244439/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie Bement
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Panic and anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, personality disorders, bipolar depression, schizophrenia, mental health related to chronic illness, and more. My background in family practice facilitates monitoring and caring for mental health issues while considering presence or effects of acute and chronic illness which may be impacting mental health as a whole. Mental health is classically a tough subject for people-creating an environment of trust, comfort, and safety is foremost in care I provide. (As well, is a healthy dose of humor and freedom to be oneself.)
Panic and anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, personality disorders, bipolar depression, schizophrenia, mental health related to chronic illness, and more. My background in family practice facilitates monitoring and caring for mental health issues while considering presence or effects of acute and chronic illness which may be impacting mental health as a whole. Mental health is classically a tough subject for people-creating an environment of trust, comfort, and safety is foremost in care I provide. (As well, is a healthy dose of humor and freedom to be oneself.)
![Photo of Larry Newman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f5a08cc-b6c9-4269-9554-e4e3e8659391/1/320x400.jpeg)
Larry Newman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (Online Only)
I am Larry Newman, DNP, AGNPPC, PMHNP. I am dually board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health and an Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I provide services to adults and children. My areas of focus include mental health in adults, LGBTQIA+, immigrant community members, Native Americans and other marginalized communities. Trauma-informed care is foundational in my practice. I collaborate with clients in all decision making. I use motivational interviewing techniques, person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral technique.
I am Larry Newman, DNP, AGNPPC, PMHNP. I am dually board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health and an Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I provide services to adults and children. My areas of focus include mental health in adults, LGBTQIA+, immigrant community members, Native Americans and other marginalized communities. Trauma-informed care is foundational in my practice. I collaborate with clients in all decision making. I use motivational interviewing techniques, person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral technique.
![Photo of Jenna Z Berendzen, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae249659-248d-405e-832c-4a20ddde755b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Z Berendzen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Jenna has extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health has helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International.
Jenna has extensive practice experience in psychiatry and reproductive health has helped Jenna gain knowledge and expertise in how hormones and life-changes, such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, play a role in one's mental health. She has post-graduate training in perinatal mental health including the 12-hour post-graduate PPD training and the Master Clinician Summit at the Postpartum Stress Center. She helped to found, and is a former board member of, the Iowa chapter of Postpartum Support International.
See more therapy options for Fort Dodge
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Dodge, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Fort Dodge, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Psychosis |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Suicidal Ideation |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Fort Dodge, IA see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Dodge?
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.