Psychiatrists in Bingham County, ID
![Photo of Anna Blonquist, PMHNP, BC-NP, MSN, BSN, ADRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66638798-1d14-4821-ac1a-59899069b58d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Blonquist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC-NP, MSN, BSN, ADRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Firth, ID 83236
You have taken a major step to set an appointment, I commend you because I know it’s not an easy thing to do. I am often told by patients that they hesitated to make an appointment out of fear. Patients often discuss being very nervous about their upcoming appointment. Your first session may evoke certain emotions, this is totally normal. During the appointment you will be asked about the reason for coming in. You may cry, feel awkward, or experience various kinds of emotions while discussing your concerns, but know that it is ok.
You have taken a major step to set an appointment, I commend you because I know it’s not an easy thing to do. I am often told by patients that they hesitated to make an appointment out of fear. Patients often discuss being very nervous about their upcoming appointment. Your first session may evoke certain emotions, this is totally normal. During the appointment you will be asked about the reason for coming in. You may cry, feel awkward, or experience various kinds of emotions while discussing your concerns, but know that it is ok.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jaxson Zohner - Just 4 Kids Health, PMHNPBC, LCSW, LCPC, LPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16a53096-2e54-463c-bc07-5b6f8729e816/1/320x400.png)
Just 4 Kids Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, LCSW, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Idaho Falls, ID 83404
We deliver health and happiness to children and their families, by embracing our divine potential, serving others authentically, nurturing relationships and creating places of healing.
We deliver health and happiness to children and their families, by embracing our divine potential, serving others authentically, nurturing relationships and creating places of healing.
![Photo of Amber J Birch, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e48ba80d-494b-4610-9457-ee50dadc612b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber J Birch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
I am a PMHNP located in Idaho Falls with telehealth options for Idaho residents as well. I am board certified to independently diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for psychiatric conditions. I attended graduate school at Eastern Kentucky University. I earned three other undergraduate degrees from Idaho State University and the University of Idaho. I have experience with psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition to the medical field I have worked in a variety of industries including university research, biomedical lab work, PSR services, and teaching. I look forward to working with you.
I am a PMHNP located in Idaho Falls with telehealth options for Idaho residents as well. I am board certified to independently diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for psychiatric conditions. I attended graduate school at Eastern Kentucky University. I earned three other undergraduate degrees from Idaho State University and the University of Idaho. I have experience with psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition to the medical field I have worked in a variety of industries including university research, biomedical lab work, PSR services, and teaching. I look forward to working with you.
![Photo of Amy Belnap - Canvi Behavioral Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CADDRA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ca66fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Canvi Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, CADDRA
Verified Verified
Chubbuck, ID 83202
Amy Belnap is one of the only CADDRA certified psychiatric providers in the state of Idaho; a certification for specialists working with ADHD. In addition to ADHD, she also treats those with learning or behavioral problems, mood and conduct disorders, OCD, and Autism. She uses medication and psychotherapy to help patients achieve their greatest potential. She also offers genetic testing to help identify treatment options that are the most likely to help you or your loved one.
Amy Belnap is one of the only CADDRA certified psychiatric providers in the state of Idaho; a certification for specialists working with ADHD. In addition to ADHD, she also treats those with learning or behavioral problems, mood and conduct disorders, OCD, and Autism. She uses medication and psychotherapy to help patients achieve their greatest potential. She also offers genetic testing to help identify treatment options that are the most likely to help you or your loved one.
![Photo of Lisa Marie Miller, PMHNP, MSN, CDCES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/856cfc68-640c-4648-8adf-919b7b037b62/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Marie Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CDCES
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pocatello, ID 83201
Board Certified, experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who offers ADHD testing, and psychiatric evaluations, willing to go the extra mile to make sure you are heard. I see all ages, without judgment and offer acceptance and hope. I provide empathetic, knowledgeable and compassionate care for those needing medication management, evaluations, brief therapy, or simply support within a nonjudgmental atmosphere. I possess over 20 years of experience in nursing, with a trauma-informed, patient-centered approach.
Board Certified, experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who offers ADHD testing, and psychiatric evaluations, willing to go the extra mile to make sure you are heard. I see all ages, without judgment and offer acceptance and hope. I provide empathetic, knowledgeable and compassionate care for those needing medication management, evaluations, brief therapy, or simply support within a nonjudgmental atmosphere. I possess over 20 years of experience in nursing, with a trauma-informed, patient-centered approach.
![Photo of Kathryn Werner, PA-C, MPAS, CAQ, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d06433-d96b-4e21-b53a-5a0efad885e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS, CAQ
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pocatello, ID 83201 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with insomnia, depression, or anxiety? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, OCD or ADHD? Or maybe you don't know exactly what's going on, but you know something is definitely off. You desperately want to get to the bottom of what's going on and get back to feeling like yourself ASAP. Or maybe you're just tired of feeling like your providers don't really get you or your needs, and you're ready to work with someone who truly cares about the entire picture and not just prescribing meds.
Do you struggle with insomnia, depression, or anxiety? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, OCD or ADHD? Or maybe you don't know exactly what's going on, but you know something is definitely off. You desperately want to get to the bottom of what's going on and get back to feeling like yourself ASAP. Or maybe you're just tired of feeling like your providers don't really get you or your needs, and you're ready to work with someone who truly cares about the entire picture and not just prescribing meds.
![Photo of Robert Greenig, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/495ce16e-7463-47f1-a267-d60f1b16caeb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Greenig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in my hometown of Idaho Falls, ID. I diagnose, treat, and manage medications for mental health and substance use disorders. I completed graduate school at Eastern Kentucky University and my undergraduate studies at BYU-I. While I was a registered nurse, I worked at local jails as a correctional nurse which is where my interest in psychiatry grew into a passion. This passion drives me to continually increase my knowledge and provide evidence-based treatment options for my patients.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) practicing in my hometown of Idaho Falls, ID. I diagnose, treat, and manage medications for mental health and substance use disorders. I completed graduate school at Eastern Kentucky University and my undergraduate studies at BYU-I. While I was a registered nurse, I worked at local jails as a correctional nurse which is where my interest in psychiatry grew into a passion. This passion drives me to continually increase my knowledge and provide evidence-based treatment options for my patients.
![Photo of Jeff Anderson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c5526f8-5829-4ec8-b867-dc41889edfe3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeff Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rexburg, ID 83440 (Online Only)
Jeff has over 28 years of experience working in the mental health field in Eastern Idaho, including the Idaho State Hospital and the Behavioral Health Center at EIRMC. Having worked extensively in both inpatient and outpatient settings, he has the experience and skill to work with individuals and families dealing with the full spectrum of mental health conditions focusing on patient-centered, individualized care. Jeff is a strong believer in utilizing both traditional and evidenced based alternative treatment modalities to assist clients in reaching their highest level of functioning, by the least intrusive means.
Jeff has over 28 years of experience working in the mental health field in Eastern Idaho, including the Idaho State Hospital and the Behavioral Health Center at EIRMC. Having worked extensively in both inpatient and outpatient settings, he has the experience and skill to work with individuals and families dealing with the full spectrum of mental health conditions focusing on patient-centered, individualized care. Jeff is a strong believer in utilizing both traditional and evidenced based alternative treatment modalities to assist clients in reaching their highest level of functioning, by the least intrusive means.
![Photo of Michaela Butler, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4b307e9-8393-41f6-a6d4-e71bceb0104b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a mental health medication manager/prescriber, with a focus in ADHD. I also treat other mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, and more. I love working with all age groups and believe in involving parents and other family members in the treatment and recovery of my patients, whenever possible. I also have a passion for patients receiving Home Health and Hospice, and have extensive experience working closely with caregiving and nursing staff to increase quality of life for patients, no matter where they are in life.
I am a mental health medication manager/prescriber, with a focus in ADHD. I also treat other mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, and more. I love working with all age groups and believe in involving parents and other family members in the treatment and recovery of my patients, whenever possible. I also have a passion for patients receiving Home Health and Hospice, and have extensive experience working closely with caregiving and nursing staff to increase quality of life for patients, no matter where they are in life.
![Photo of Tara Arocho, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d567d2b1-6a65-46c1-8f64-8509127ae257/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tara enjoys helping anyone with mood disorders, whether its depression, anxiety, bipolar, or a combination. When she can help someone get their mood to a more manageable and happy level is when she feels best about her work. She wants people who are struggling with mental health issues to realize that there isn’t anything wrong with them, end the stigma, and get to a place where they can enjoy life to the fullest.
Tara enjoys helping anyone with mood disorders, whether its depression, anxiety, bipolar, or a combination. When she can help someone get their mood to a more manageable and happy level is when she feels best about her work. She wants people who are struggling with mental health issues to realize that there isn’t anything wrong with them, end the stigma, and get to a place where they can enjoy life to the fullest.
![Photo of Adam Horn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82ab942b-e843-4b95-aae4-2c811c3dae2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
![Photo of Brenda B Franson, DNP, PMHNPBC, CDSMPMT, NC-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60008018-76d0-4033-b866-151761343538/4/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda B Franson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CDSMPMT, NC-BC
Verified Verified
Rexburg, ID 83440 (Online Only)
As an integrated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my telehealth practice is deeply grounded in the holistic well-being of individuals. I diagnose and prescribe for mental health conditions, with a specialized focus on managing stress, anxiety, and depression for individuals coping with chronic physical and mental illnesses. I prioritize evidence-based therapies, with a strong emphasis on Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. By offering practical techniques and medication management, I meet clients at their current stage of wellness, collaborating towards improved mental and physical health outcomes.
As an integrated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my telehealth practice is deeply grounded in the holistic well-being of individuals. I diagnose and prescribe for mental health conditions, with a specialized focus on managing stress, anxiety, and depression for individuals coping with chronic physical and mental illnesses. I prioritize evidence-based therapies, with a strong emphasis on Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. By offering practical techniques and medication management, I meet clients at their current stage of wellness, collaborating towards improved mental and physical health outcomes.
![Photo of Rachel Adams, DNP, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9540d01b-06cf-449b-940a-edc187f1d2ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel has over 25 years in the mental health field, 15 of them as a nurse practitioner in mental health. She has worked in outpatient settings as well as inpatient at State Hospitals and behavioral health facilities. She is a firm believer in a patient centered approach, utilizing evidenced based traditional and alternative treatments to help individuals maintain their highest level of functioning. Rachel believes that therapy is an important part of treatment highly recommends patients continue counseling with their providers. She prefers coordinating with primary care providers for optimal care.
Rachel has over 25 years in the mental health field, 15 of them as a nurse practitioner in mental health. She has worked in outpatient settings as well as inpatient at State Hospitals and behavioral health facilities. She is a firm believer in a patient centered approach, utilizing evidenced based traditional and alternative treatments to help individuals maintain their highest level of functioning. Rachel believes that therapy is an important part of treatment highly recommends patients continue counseling with their providers. She prefers coordinating with primary care providers for optimal care.
![Photo of Denise Loraine Bird, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc41e814-8df0-40b2-8708-71a9023efe2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Loraine Bird
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Idaho Falls, ID 83404
Hello and Aloha! I'm Denise.....My mindset: you can and will improve. Collaboration means you + me. Success means empowering you. My process is body, mind & spirit. Take control of your wellness, improve your relationships, and optimize your life. I believe in integrative psychiatry.
Hello and Aloha! I'm Denise.....My mindset: you can and will improve. Collaboration means you + me. Success means empowering you. My process is body, mind & spirit. Take control of your wellness, improve your relationships, and optimize your life. I believe in integrative psychiatry.
![Photo of Angela Lee Allen, PMHNP-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbe916a1-1044-4a35-868d-2ea7908c4d76/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years’ experience caring for adults, children, and adolescents, in both an inpatient and outpatient setting. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for children and adults with multiple psychiatric conditions. I have specialization in ADHD, eating disorders, PTSD, and a multitude of other psychiatric illnesses.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years’ experience caring for adults, children, and adolescents, in both an inpatient and outpatient setting. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for children and adults with multiple psychiatric conditions. I have specialization in ADHD, eating disorders, PTSD, and a multitude of other psychiatric illnesses.
Lupine Mental Health & Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Victor, ID 83455
My goal as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner is to improve access to mental health and psychiatric care in Wyoming, reduce the stigma associated with having a mental illness, and improve quality of life through the promotion of mental wellness. My philosophy is to provide treatment options designed to meet each client’s values and goals. I offer compassionate and evidenced-based psychiatric care for the treatment of all mental health disorders through the use of medications, nutraceuticals, healthy thinking strategies, and lifestyle changes.
My goal as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner is to improve access to mental health and psychiatric care in Wyoming, reduce the stigma associated with having a mental illness, and improve quality of life through the promotion of mental wellness. My philosophy is to provide treatment options designed to meet each client’s values and goals. I offer compassionate and evidenced-based psychiatric care for the treatment of all mental health disorders through the use of medications, nutraceuticals, healthy thinking strategies, and lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Tyson Flower, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/714845ba-940c-4385-8a62-f83155581ee8/2/320x400.jpeg)
When you're tired of pretending to be happy or not getting effective treatment, it's time to see me at Perma Mental Health. I found my passion for mental health during my undergraduate studies at Idaho State University, which resulted in changing my degree to psychology. I believe in patient-centered care and provide a sacred space for you to confidently discuss your concerns in a judgement-free zone. I am dedicated to being an advocate to you, your values and your goals. In mental health, total health and patient-centered care there is not a "one size fits all" and we work together find your ultimate mental and physical health.
When you're tired of pretending to be happy or not getting effective treatment, it's time to see me at Perma Mental Health. I found my passion for mental health during my undergraduate studies at Idaho State University, which resulted in changing my degree to psychology. I believe in patient-centered care and provide a sacred space for you to confidently discuss your concerns in a judgement-free zone. I am dedicated to being an advocate to you, your values and your goals. In mental health, total health and patient-centered care there is not a "one size fits all" and we work together find your ultimate mental and physical health.
![Photo of Patrick Abel, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3066aaf-3090-491c-822a-25e06de6a803/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting clients for face-to-face and telehealth services. I am a graduate from Idaho State University. Prior to school I worked in wilderness therapy in Utah with teens with behavioral/mood disorders and technology/substance addiction. I am passionate about working with teens and adults who are struggling to thrive in life and are in need of coaching and coping skills. I utilize a combination of CBT/DBT in my work with patients. And I also do ketamine therapy for those who are interested.
I am accepting clients for face-to-face and telehealth services. I am a graduate from Idaho State University. Prior to school I worked in wilderness therapy in Utah with teens with behavioral/mood disorders and technology/substance addiction. I am passionate about working with teens and adults who are struggling to thrive in life and are in need of coaching and coping skills. I utilize a combination of CBT/DBT in my work with patients. And I also do ketamine therapy for those who are interested.
![Photo of Spencer Stanger, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92afe5bb-8d44-43a1-ae36-bf48a71dae10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Spencer has worked in health care for the past 13 years, first as an RN and the past 6 years as a Family Nurse Practitioner in eastern Idaho. While working in primary care, Spencer found joy in helping those struggling with mental health issues, and also noted the need for more specialized psychiatric providers in our area.
Spencer has worked in health care for the past 13 years, first as an RN and the past 6 years as a Family Nurse Practitioner in eastern Idaho. While working in primary care, Spencer found joy in helping those struggling with mental health issues, and also noted the need for more specialized psychiatric providers in our area.
![Photo of Steve Esplin, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8631ebef-77d3-4efb-96d3-05cbd112bd5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone who is needing to be cared for and heard. They are in need of a provider that will meet them where they are, who is kind, understanding, compassionate, and bluntly honest. My ideal client's goals are to be well, to maximize their potential, and to feel their efforts are paying off. They want to know they are in control of their lives and their care. They want to feel valued and safe. Why, because they're worth it.
My ideal client is someone who is needing to be cared for and heard. They are in need of a provider that will meet them where they are, who is kind, understanding, compassionate, and bluntly honest. My ideal client's goals are to be well, to maximize their potential, and to feel their efforts are paying off. They want to know they are in control of their lives and their care. They want to feel valued and safe. Why, because they're worth it.
See more therapy options for Bingham County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bingham County, ID
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bingham County, ID who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Bingham County, ID 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 Bingham 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.