Psychiatrists in Muscatine, IA
![Photo of Kayla Lea Carlsten - Calamity Rose Ranch, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5601c2e1-43c1-40ad-867d-d0a257c09e8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking a holistic approach to mental health. They need a safe space to express feelings, professional guidance to manage symptoms, and practical coping strategies. Their goals are to reduce anxiety and depression, build self-esteem, and improve relationships. They come to Calamity Rose Ranch for the unique blend of professional therapy and the healing presence of therapy animals, aiming for mental balance and a fulfilling life. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to make positive changes.
Our ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking a holistic approach to mental health. They need a safe space to express feelings, professional guidance to manage symptoms, and practical coping strategies. Their goals are to reduce anxiety and depression, build self-esteem, and improve relationships. They come to Calamity Rose Ranch for the unique blend of professional therapy and the healing presence of therapy animals, aiming for mental balance and a fulfilling life. They want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to make positive changes.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Curtis Long, DNP, PMHNP, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae7b58de-a599-4b62-921c-437739511c38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Curtis Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52246
All people deal with varying levels of mental health but some face more intense circumstances. As a mental health medication prescriber, I am dedicated to providing support to you to help you unleash their potential. There is no simple blood test when it comes to determining the best mental health medication for each individual. Each person’s situation and experience is unique. Your voice and ability to share your symptoms in a calm environment is critical. A key part of my process is to listen to your questions and concerns from the first moment you meet and continually throughout treatment.
All people deal with varying levels of mental health but some face more intense circumstances. As a mental health medication prescriber, I am dedicated to providing support to you to help you unleash their potential. There is no simple blood test when it comes to determining the best mental health medication for each individual. Each person’s situation and experience is unique. Your voice and ability to share your symptoms in a calm environment is critical. A key part of my process is to listen to your questions and concerns from the first moment you meet and continually throughout treatment.
![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
Grinnell, IA 50112 (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.
![Photo of Noel Adams, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, SANE, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/583c46ab-08f3-4f6f-9172-177379fd1c70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Noel Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, SANE
Verified Verified
Marion, IA 52302
Now able to accept new patients! Noel Adams is a board certified medication provider specializing in Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder) ADHD, Depression and other Mood Disorders, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, and Behavioral Disorders. Noel provides care to patients across a lifespan (ages 6+) with over a decade of experience in healthcare helping individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
Now able to accept new patients! Noel Adams is a board certified medication provider specializing in Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, panic disorder) ADHD, Depression and other Mood Disorders, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, and Behavioral Disorders. Noel provides care to patients across a lifespan (ages 6+) with over a decade of experience in healthcare helping individuals navigate their mental health in both hospital and clinic settings.
![Photo of Kristina (Krissy) Gates, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55c238f8-c248-4acb-b96a-4aa268d3ea71/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina (Krissy) Gates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Krissy’s areas of specialty include working with ages 5+, LGBTQ+ community, crisis management, substance abuse (Medication Assisted Treatment-30client limit), ADHD, PTSD, mood, anxiety, and schizophrenia disorders.
Krissy’s areas of specialty include working with ages 5+, LGBTQ+ community, crisis management, substance abuse (Medication Assisted Treatment-30client limit), ADHD, PTSD, mood, anxiety, and schizophrenia disorders.
![Photo of Ben Jaggers - Ben Jaggers Covenant Family Solutions Coralville, ARNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1dbaedb-42f3-4ea2-8ee1-a185176441bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ben Jaggers Covenant Family Solutions Coralville
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
Reflective listening and genuine care are foundations to my practice. Nurturing a clinical relationship with you is the reason I am here. Together we focus on a plan that is right for your current circumstances and future goals. By providing medication management and brief supportive therapy at each session, we not only work towards reducing severe psychiatric symptoms with medications, but work towards improving engagement in healthy self care choices related to our most basic needs as people (e.g. sleep, diet, movement, relationships, safety, security).
Reflective listening and genuine care are foundations to my practice. Nurturing a clinical relationship with you is the reason I am here. Together we focus on a plan that is right for your current circumstances and future goals. By providing medication management and brief supportive therapy at each session, we not only work towards reducing severe psychiatric symptoms with medications, but work towards improving engagement in healthy self care choices related to our most basic needs as people (e.g. sleep, diet, movement, relationships, safety, security).
![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.
![Photo of Germaine Mbuh, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0f07ba7-bf05-46c9-8b17-ea31b9c7bcb1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Germaine Mbuh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving children, adults and the senior population. Professionally, I have worked in diverse roles in numerous care settings. Throughout these years of experience, I have faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. In these care situations, I developed an indomitable passion for mental health, ultimately leading me to pursue a master’s degree in nursing to obtain my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluations.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving children, adults and the senior population. Professionally, I have worked in diverse roles in numerous care settings. Throughout these years of experience, I have faced numerous situations where understanding and recognizing a patient’s mental health was essential. In these care situations, I developed an indomitable passion for mental health, ultimately leading me to pursue a master’s degree in nursing to obtain my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluations.
![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 Emily Freeman, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2b6194-954e-4f3c-8060-8a7d7d3f435e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily works with children and adolescents 4 to 20 years of age. She has extensive experience managing symptoms of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance use disorders.
Emily works with children and adolescents 4 to 20 years of age. She has extensive experience managing symptoms of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Travis Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/525f0640-26bc-4995-9c79-c07c380815af/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Jeanne-Marie Fournier, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/331ae4b2-9f8a-4b88-a15a-8c3987bbd7a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeanne-Marie Fournier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Jeanne-Marie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals aged 8 and older. No referrals are needed and accepting new clients. She takes time to listen to her patient's concerns to work towards their overall goals. She uses a holistic approach incorporating trauma-informed care, empathy, and compassion to treat the whole person with traditional medicine. Our office is located at 42 7th Ave SW, Ste 100 (Mott Blvd), Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
Jeanne-Marie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working with individuals aged 8 and older. No referrals are needed and accepting new clients. She takes time to listen to her patient's concerns to work towards their overall goals. She uses a holistic approach incorporating trauma-informed care, empathy, and compassion to treat the whole person with traditional medicine. Our office is located at 42 7th Ave SW, Ste 100 (Mott Blvd), Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
![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 Jennifer Griffith, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8205c4ea-0f2c-4c48-8c37-d096a5a4c37e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Madison, IA 52627 (Online Only)
Book with me now using my website link for a free 15-minute initial phone consultation! Hello! I am Jennifer Griffith, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with Cultivate Joy Psychiatry, LLC. I strive to listen and provide time during sessions for you to share your concerns. You are not just a diagnosis; you are a unique individual whose mental, physical, and social health all impact your overall well-being. We can work together to help you take control of your mental health and learn to not just survive, but thrive in your everyday life!
Book with me now using my website link for a free 15-minute initial phone consultation! Hello! I am Jennifer Griffith, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with Cultivate Joy Psychiatry, LLC. I strive to listen and provide time during sessions for you to share your concerns. You are not just a diagnosis; you are a unique individual whose mental, physical, and social health all impact your overall well-being. We can work together to help you take control of your mental health and learn to not just survive, but thrive in your everyday life!
![Photo of Joshua Curphy, APNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a25d87a4-df20-4e91-b444-2162ca327c03/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical interests are focused on the treatment and management of mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I am passionate about providing evidence-based, patient-centered care that addresses the individual needs of each person, with an approach that encompasses a blend of psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and holistic interventions to promote mental wellness and improve overall quality of life.
My clinical interests are focused on the treatment and management of mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I am passionate about providing evidence-based, patient-centered care that addresses the individual needs of each person, with an approach that encompasses a blend of psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and holistic interventions to promote mental wellness and improve overall quality of life.
![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
Waterloo, IA 50703 (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 Davonna Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/820ab1bd-ef01-4e72-b5c2-e06c120c0f37/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
![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
Hiawatha, IA 52233
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 Margaret Burchianti, DNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c267b19-c8f5-4b42-a7b0-4df87657d020/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Burchianti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241 (Online Only)
I practice integrative psychiatry, which weaves together conventional psychiatric treatments like medications with complementary and alternative ones. To care for you, I will draw on functional medicine, natural and traditional remedies, lifestyle interventions, and mind-body practices. The integrative approach also tends to be much more holistic and individualized than the conventional psychiatric approach so you can expect highly personalized care. I also take a functional medicine approach, which means that we look below the surface and aim to resolve the root causes of your symptoms.
I practice integrative psychiatry, which weaves together conventional psychiatric treatments like medications with complementary and alternative ones. To care for you, I will draw on functional medicine, natural and traditional remedies, lifestyle interventions, and mind-body practices. The integrative approach also tends to be much more holistic and individualized than the conventional psychiatric approach so you can expect highly personalized care. I also take a functional medicine approach, which means that we look below the surface and aim to resolve the root causes of your symptoms.
![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.
See more therapy options for Muscatine
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Muscatine, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Muscatine, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Domestic Abuse |
100% | Eating Disorders |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Muscatine, IA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Muscatine?
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.