Psychiatrists in Warren County, IA
![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 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
Carlisle, IA 50047 (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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Tara Smith, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/953eadd5-0dca-4352-88d1-f1947c3749b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a passion for helping those with anxiety, depression, and trauma history. I provide care across the lifespan. I enjoy working with children and adolescents. I also have experience as a family nurse practitioner and various roles as a RN (women's health, labor and delivery, and child care).
I have a passion for helping those with anxiety, depression, and trauma history. I provide care across the lifespan. I enjoy working with children and adolescents. I also have experience as a family nurse practitioner and various roles as a RN (women's health, labor and delivery, and child care).
![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
2 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 Breanna Millsap, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dd2ef69-2a2d-4c61-b4c3-9932173e4d9d/1/320x400.png)
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, RNC-OB
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (Online Only)
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a 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. Same-day appointments are often available because she prioritizes availability as being a must, with mental health. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically 1 hour and follow-ups are generally 20 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap, and schedule your free consultation today!
![Photo of Michelle Kubik, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1519d604-d3fb-489d-b0ee-d9272a67dbad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Kubik is a licensed Physician Assistant (PA-C) and provides psychiatric care and medication management at Kingdom Counseling. Michelle completed her undergraduate degree at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. She graduated from Des Moines University in 2015 with her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Michelle worked as a provider in primary care for seven years where she found her passion caring for those struggling with their mental health.
Michelle Kubik is a licensed Physician Assistant (PA-C) and provides psychiatric care and medication management at Kingdom Counseling. Michelle completed her undergraduate degree at Central College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. She graduated from Des Moines University in 2015 with her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Michelle worked as a provider in primary care for seven years where she found her passion caring for those struggling with their mental health.
![Photo of Kerri Patton - Luna Mental Health, PLLC , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d65183f4-b46f-45b9-b786-8db6131d5f89/2/320x400.jpeg)
Luna Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
My name is Kerri Patton. I love being a nurse practitioner. I have worked as one for over 17 years. I am dual certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have worked in many areas over the course of my career. One theme has been present no matter the setting; all health starts and stops with mental health. My hope is to help patients find as much quality in their life as possible while improving suffering that can come along with mental illness. This is why I opened Luna Mental Health.
My name is Kerri Patton. I love being a nurse practitioner. I have worked as one for over 17 years. I am dual certified as both a family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have worked in many areas over the course of my career. One theme has been present no matter the setting; all health starts and stops with mental health. My hope is to help patients find as much quality in their life as possible while improving suffering that can come along with mental illness. This is why I opened Luna Mental Health.
![Photo of JoAnne I Olsen, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eff215b2-cf56-4e96-8721-07292782d302/2/320x400.jpeg)
JoAnne I Olsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Atlantic, IA 50022
Everyone deserves access to quality mental health services. Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it can be difficult to reach out for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, difficulties in relationships, or grief, make the call or even send a text. Taking the first step toward feeling better will move you in a healing direction.
Everyone deserves access to quality mental health services. Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it can be difficult to reach out for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, difficulties in relationships, or grief, make the call or even send a text. Taking the first step toward feeling better will move you in a healing direction.
![Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0654eada-9fab-4619-afa5-4269b9a97354/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Erica Sloan, DNP, ARNP, CPNP-PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e399ffc8-65ab-4a49-9820-54d34b00296e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Sloan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, CPNP-PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
The decision to seek evaluation and medication support for your child is complex and often emotional. I desire to help families understand all options in a supportive, caring environment where both children and their caregivers feel comfortable in asking questions and sharing concerns. In planning for your child's support, I understand that there are many factors to consider, including family dynamics, school performance, peer relationships, behaviors, nutrition, sleep, and overall wellness. I believe collaborating with families to create a well considered plan is imperative for successful outcomes.
The decision to seek evaluation and medication support for your child is complex and often emotional. I desire to help families understand all options in a supportive, caring environment where both children and their caregivers feel comfortable in asking questions and sharing concerns. In planning for your child's support, I understand that there are many factors to consider, including family dynamics, school performance, peer relationships, behaviors, nutrition, sleep, and overall wellness. I believe collaborating with families to create a well considered plan is imperative for successful outcomes.
![Photo of Tomeka Hill, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61c32741-e3b9-4d9e-ab49-1c32e5900f3c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tomeka Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
My focus areas for mental health treatment include psychotherapeutic treatment and medication management for the following: anxiety, depression, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, and substance use disorder. I use evidence-based strategies to support issues such as trauma focused care. Motivational interviewing, strength-based care, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral strategies. My goal is to provide improvement in your overall health.
My focus areas for mental health treatment include psychotherapeutic treatment and medication management for the following: anxiety, depression, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, and substance use disorder. I use evidence-based strategies to support issues such as trauma focused care. Motivational interviewing, strength-based care, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral strategies. My goal is to provide improvement in your overall health.
![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 Nadine Smith - Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4be646d0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315 (Online Only)
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Lacey Cheeseman, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4641e2a-6620-405a-9f1b-0db5fe1a6105/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lacey Cheeseman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
My interests include mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD.
My interests include mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD.
![Photo of Tami Halbersma, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f37e641-efd5-46a0-a838-ef6858bd6043/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW Patients! Appointments within 1-2 WEEKS! All of us experience ups and downs on life's journey. Resilient Health Services wants to support you wherever you are on that path. We want to help pave the way for your journey to wellness through assessment & diagnosis, lifestyle management, and medication management. We are dedicated to delivering evidence-based, personalized care in a supportive environment that fosters healing and empowers you to achieve your highest level of mental health while supporting resilience. In-person and telehealth options are available.
Accepting NEW Patients! Appointments within 1-2 WEEKS! All of us experience ups and downs on life's journey. Resilient Health Services wants to support you wherever you are on that path. We want to help pave the way for your journey to wellness through assessment & diagnosis, lifestyle management, and medication management. We are dedicated to delivering evidence-based, personalized care in a supportive environment that fosters healing and empowers you to achieve your highest level of mental health while supporting resilience. In-person and telehealth options are available.
![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 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 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 Ann Barbaro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af8b9c57-5ec0-478d-a43c-b9f80ed3c0cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Barbaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
![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.)
See more therapy options for Warren County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Warren County, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Warren County, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Autism |
100% | Self Esteem |
100% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Medica |
How Psychiatrists in Warren County, IA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Warren County?
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.