Psychiatrists in Johnston, IA
![Photo of Martina Taina Barshall, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8be1b3c3-15e2-4ae7-9823-6c21e785b501/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martina Taina Barshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131 (Online Only)
At Oasis Psychiatry and Counseling, we excel in providing effective treatment, support, crisis intervention, continuous monitoring, and holistic care to achieve symptom management, emotional stability, improved functioning, self-efficacy, and relapse prevention. Our clients seek empathy, respect, clear communication, accessible care, and a holistic approach for a better quality of life. We offer integrated care, personalized treatment, advanced training, and a patient-centered focus, employing strategies like comprehensive assessments, personalized plans, psychoeducation, therapeutic interventions, medication management, etc.....
At Oasis Psychiatry and Counseling, we excel in providing effective treatment, support, crisis intervention, continuous monitoring, and holistic care to achieve symptom management, emotional stability, improved functioning, self-efficacy, and relapse prevention. Our clients seek empathy, respect, clear communication, accessible care, and a holistic approach for a better quality of life. We offer integrated care, personalized treatment, advanced training, and a patient-centered focus, employing strategies like comprehensive assessments, personalized plans, psychoeducation, therapeutic interventions, medication management, etc.....
![Photo of Walnut Creek Psychiatry - Walnut Creek Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ec6af19-a966-43a1-8fbe-b4583eb039cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Walnut Creek Psychiatry is deeply committed to providing individuals with exceptional psychiatric care. We specialize in your mental well-being by relying on our expertise to provide the highest quality of psychiatric care with an emphasis on individual uniqueness. We treat ages 4 through older adults for illnesses such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and others. We provide a safe environment, empathetic listening skills, and diverse services to meet the individual needs of our clients. Medical and therapy services are provided in offices or through telehealth across Iowa.
Walnut Creek Psychiatry is deeply committed to providing individuals with exceptional psychiatric care. We specialize in your mental well-being by relying on our expertise to provide the highest quality of psychiatric care with an emphasis on individual uniqueness. We treat ages 4 through older adults for illnesses such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and others. We provide a safe environment, empathetic listening skills, and diverse services to meet the individual needs of our clients. Medical and therapy services are provided in offices or through telehealth across Iowa.
![Photo of Jennifer C Melly, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/852e9add-3328-4db3-8df0-51963bf41e91/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer C Melly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Provider, who provides mental health care to all ages. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient and outpatient for over 15 years. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy to improve symptomology of mental illness. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental I look forward to helping patients through their mental health journey and collaborate with the patient to provide the best care possible.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Provider, who provides mental health care to all ages. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient and outpatient for over 15 years. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy to improve symptomology of mental illness. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental I look forward to helping patients through their mental health journey and collaborate with the patient to provide the best care possible.
![Photo of Nicole Roetman, ARNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/febde8ab-eb9c-4e70-9662-96a71afba46f/1/320x400.png)
Nicole Roetman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Ms. Roetman is Dual Certified Nurse Practitioner who works with clients along the life span from age 12 yo to 65 yo experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. Mrs. Roetman graduated from Drake University with her MSN, FNP-BC and the University of IA for her PMHNP-BC. She provides medication management and supportive therapy. Her treatment model emphasis providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.
Ms. Roetman is Dual Certified Nurse Practitioner who works with clients along the life span from age 12 yo to 65 yo experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. Mrs. Roetman graduated from Drake University with her MSN, FNP-BC and the University of IA for her PMHNP-BC. She provides medication management and supportive therapy. Her treatment model emphasis providing a calm and supportive environment in an attempt to humanize the experience of treatment allowing clients to receive the highest quality of care.
![Photo of Breanna Millsap - Zion 360 Mental Health and Wellness , MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dd2ef69-2a2d-4c61-b4c3-9932173e4d9d/1/320x400.png)
Zion 360 Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131 (Online Only)
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. She believes in treating the whole person, and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Same day appointments often available. Book Directly at Helloalma.com - Search Psychiatrist- type in Breanna Millsap... and schedule your free consultation today.
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. She believes in treating the whole person, and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Same day appointments often available. Book Directly at Helloalma.com - Search Psychiatrist- type in Breanna Millsap... and schedule your free consultation today.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Veronica Holloway - Veronica Holloway , MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc293a1d-d798-4111-b6db-6731763336f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Holloway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Taking the first steps towards improving your mental health can be intimidating. I sincerely want to help you in the journey to develop hope for the future, with renewed energy, strength and passion for life. I will be there helping and guiding you, to optimize your healing and health, with evidence based recommendations. Let's review your treatment goals and an action plan on how to achieve this. Please call to schedule your appointment 515-207-0110.
Accepting new patients! Taking the first steps towards improving your mental health can be intimidating. I sincerely want to help you in the journey to develop hope for the future, with renewed energy, strength and passion for life. I will be there helping and guiding you, to optimize your healing and health, with evidence based recommendations. Let's review your treatment goals and an action plan on how to achieve this. Please call to schedule your appointment 515-207-0110.
![Photo of Dr. Funmi Kwentua - Lumel Mental Health Services, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/648e2712-bf85-44b7-a2b2-90087657594a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lumel Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50303 (Online Only)
Welcome to Lumel Mental Health. We see patients in Louisiana, Iowa and Arizona. I'm Funmi, a doctoral-prepared, licensed, and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I strongly advocate for the connection between mind and body, utilizing evidence-based methods to address my patients' needs and improve their overall well-being. At Lumel, we welcome clients of all ages who are ready to actively enhance their physical, mental, and spiritual health.
Welcome to Lumel Mental Health. We see patients in Louisiana, Iowa and Arizona. I'm Funmi, a doctoral-prepared, licensed, and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I strongly advocate for the connection between mind and body, utilizing evidence-based methods to address my patients' needs and improve their overall well-being. At Lumel, we welcome clients of all ages who are ready to actively enhance their physical, mental, and spiritual health.
![Photo of Rebecca Baker, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be6c7128-4618-4698-a060-cb6718645eb2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Mental health contributes greatly to the happiness and well-being of an individual. I look forward to working with individuals to help create unique and individualized treatment plans that work for them. I believe the best patient care is obtained through collaboration amongst team members and with the use of the most up-to-date practices and techniques.
Mental health contributes greatly to the happiness and well-being of an individual. I look forward to working with individuals to help create unique and individualized treatment plans that work for them. I believe the best patient care is obtained through collaboration amongst team members and with the use of the most up-to-date practices and techniques.
![Photo of Ruth Ann Powe, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67737566-1cf6-4664-aeb7-43d3aee05dc8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Ann Powe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50323 (Online Only)
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
![Photo of Lisa York, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35015f6b-9c01-4ea8-882d-e55cf1e59e73/5/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I serve adults experiencing mental health symptoms that are negatively impacting their daily lives. I offer medication management while using a holistic approach along with evidence-based treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, women’s mental health disorders and more. My therapeutic style is welcoming, warm, nonjudgmental and respectful. I have received additional training from Post Partum Support International.
Hello! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I serve adults experiencing mental health symptoms that are negatively impacting their daily lives. I offer medication management while using a holistic approach along with evidence-based treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, women’s mental health disorders and more. My therapeutic style is welcoming, warm, nonjudgmental and respectful. I have received additional training from Post Partum Support International.
![Photo of Adreanne Perkins, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7abfe77-7214-4e6c-a36d-28f5e58364cc/1/320x400.png)
Adreanne Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
I am here to provide options for people looking to improve his/her mental health with medication management or the use of supplements. Therapy is encouraged, but not required. I treat ages 10 years and older. I strive for patients wanting to be the best version of themselves and to be functional members of society. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments.
I am here to provide options for people looking to improve his/her mental health with medication management or the use of supplements. Therapy is encouraged, but not required. I treat ages 10 years and older. I strive for patients wanting to be the best version of themselves and to be functional members of society. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments.
![Photo of Corey Weaver, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49a74adb-de00-40c0-9ccc-2be14e3ba2ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Corey Weaver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
Corey Weaver is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has worked in healthcare in the Des Moines area for over 20 years, which includes inpatient and outpatient mental health. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. He went on to earn his Masters of Science in Nursing at Allen College in Waterloo, Iowa. Corey provides patient centered care with individualized treatment plans. Corey’s specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse. Corey enjoys spending time with family, traveling, sports, and appreciates continual learning.
Corey Weaver is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has worked in healthcare in the Des Moines area for over 20 years, which includes inpatient and outpatient mental health. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. He went on to earn his Masters of Science in Nursing at Allen College in Waterloo, Iowa. Corey provides patient centered care with individualized treatment plans. Corey’s specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse. Corey enjoys spending time with family, traveling, sports, and appreciates continual learning.
![Photo of Amanda Lantow, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca62b499-b1bb-4072-9871-0fb41cf1c986/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Lantow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Not accepting new clients
Many of us have times during which we just cannot quite feel okay, whether it’s anxiety, depression, insomnia, dementia, or any number of other mental health difficulties. I would like to help you get to a mentally good place again! I do not seek to simply add medication to your daily life but to assess and determine if medication would be something that could help. I like to work with my patients, encouraging them to be a part of the decision-making process when it comes to medications. I will work with you to get you feeling the best you can.
Many of us have times during which we just cannot quite feel okay, whether it’s anxiety, depression, insomnia, dementia, or any number of other mental health difficulties. I would like to help you get to a mentally good place again! I do not seek to simply add medication to your daily life but to assess and determine if medication would be something that could help. I like to work with my patients, encouraging them to be a part of the decision-making process when it comes to medications. I will work with you to get you feeling the best you can.
![Photo of Catina Greene, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a539fd1-d9f8-4da8-989a-2f9b680f5a72/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catina Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50318
Have you been struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. I then incorporate the client's experience with my expertise to provide an individualized plan of care. Care plans will include cultural sensitivities and gender needs.
Have you been struggling with loneliness, sadness, crying spells, overwhelming thoughts of regret or unsurety, nervousness, irritability, mood changes, sleep issues? Were you told that you have ADHD? Well, now you can be formally tested. I’m here to help you explore your feelings and how your body responds to them. These responses may be related to complex life changes, traumatic events, chemical imbalances, or thought processes. I then incorporate the client's experience with my expertise to provide an individualized plan of care. Care plans will include cultural sensitivities and gender needs.
![Photo of Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Treatment Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e711a9d-28e9-4d58-9740-c3e5fa94b257/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Allied Treatment Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
![Photo of Cynthia A Okojie - Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6a7360d-f84c-4c63-8e83-3a4b23a61511/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50323 (Online Only)
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
![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 Katelyn Thompson, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21ce3c8c-1afc-4fcc-a27a-8b3449698cdc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Katelyn Thompson is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. Patients looking for a psychiatric provider will find that Dr. Thompson has a gentle and approachable style. She believes that each patient was created on purpose and for a purpose. The brain is deeply wired for resilience and Dr. Thompson is blessed to witness while supporting that in her patients. She focuses on medication management with supportive psychotherapy as she treats a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses.
Dr. Katelyn Thompson is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. Patients looking for a psychiatric provider will find that Dr. Thompson has a gentle and approachable style. She believes that each patient was created on purpose and for a purpose. The brain is deeply wired for resilience and Dr. Thompson is blessed to witness while supporting that in her patients. She focuses on medication management with supportive psychotherapy as she treats a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses.
![Photo of Kimberly Harris, MSN, PMHNP-C, CPNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32ea7680-80dd-4e39-8e7b-ea8ec4c8bd4c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, CPNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50301 (Online Only)
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I have extensive experience working with clients of all ages. I focus on a more holistic approach, incorporating the use of medication with an integrative and functional approach. I utilize a collaborative and person-centered approach to care, considering all aspects of a person's life, including physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, to create a comprehensive treatment plan. I am passionate about empowering patients to achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I have extensive experience working with clients of all ages. I focus on a more holistic approach, incorporating the use of medication with an integrative and functional approach. I utilize a collaborative and person-centered approach to care, considering all aspects of a person's life, including physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, to create a comprehensive treatment plan. I am passionate about empowering patients to achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
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Nearby Searches for Johnston
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Johnston, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Johnston, IA who prioritize treating:
83% | Depression |
83% | Anxiety |
83% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Eating Disorders |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Johnston, 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 Johnston?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.