Psychiatrists in Boise County, ID
![Photo of Angela Danforth, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d7c2219-dc1a-409c-a552-5b01c77c2335/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Danforth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Idaho City, ID 83631 (Online Only)
I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus in family medicine and psychiatry (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorder, etc.). I have 8 years of experience working in the healthcare field. I have an extensive background in women's health, but I later transitioned into psychiatry, working with patients with mental illness and substance abuse issues.
I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus in family medicine and psychiatry (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorder, etc.). I have 8 years of experience working in the healthcare field. I have an extensive background in women's health, but I later transitioned into psychiatry, working with patients with mental illness and substance abuse issues.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Lisa Bryner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7673ec3-809a-4b10-8ae5-d3c508c32df5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your wellbeing matters and it’s time for you to be seen and heard. I am committed to fostering an inviting, safe space where everyone, regardless of background, will be valued. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that specializes in treating the full range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD and more. My background includes working as a nurse not only in behavioral health, but in many medical settings. This experience, coupled with my training as a health coach, gives me a deeper understanding of what may be affecting you as a whole person.
Your wellbeing matters and it’s time for you to be seen and heard. I am committed to fostering an inviting, safe space where everyone, regardless of background, will be valued. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that specializes in treating the full range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, PTSD and more. My background includes working as a nurse not only in behavioral health, but in many medical settings. This experience, coupled with my training as a health coach, gives me a deeper understanding of what may be affecting you as a whole person.
![Photo of Sami Phuyal, DNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92fe765e-d704-4384-b63b-792360db40a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sami Phuyal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Are you seeking the best psychiatrist near you? Look no further, we are accepting new patients. Our practice in Meridian warmly welcomes new patients, dedicated to providing top-tier mental health care. We understand the significance of accessible mental health help and offer a range of services including ADHD testing, anxiety, depression testing, and treatment for children. We see patients of all ages 7 years and up.
Are you seeking the best psychiatrist near you? Look no further, we are accepting new patients. Our practice in Meridian warmly welcomes new patients, dedicated to providing top-tier mental health care. We understand the significance of accessible mental health help and offer a range of services including ADHD testing, anxiety, depression testing, and treatment for children. We see patients of all ages 7 years and up.
![Photo of Sam Zand, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1a153be-9fc1-4405-a402-7ca328143fd7/1/320x400.png)
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on improving yourself for a while, it is my mission to help you achieve mental clarity, inner peace, and overall happiness. Although my training is in general psychiatry, addiction recovery, and psychotherapy, our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. Whether you are new to mental health or you’ve been working on improving yourself for a while, it is my mission to help you achieve mental clarity, inner peace, and overall happiness. Although my training is in general psychiatry, addiction recovery, and psychotherapy, our work together will cover all aspects of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
![Photo of Angela G Hernandez - Psychiatry 121, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/998c81f5-5f7b-4e2d-99b8-57e4c906f860/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry 121
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Angela provides medication management, testing and treatment for adolescents and adults who are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorder, PTSD, women’s health issues including PMDD and postpartum depression.
Angela provides medication management, testing and treatment for adolescents and adults who are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorder, PTSD, women’s health issues including PMDD and postpartum depression.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a59c195-9a20-406e-addb-ec55379367d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702 (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Idaho 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 are $99. Insurances accepted.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Idaho 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 are $99. Insurances accepted.
![Photo of Kathleen Mack, MSN, FMP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6214d6e9-64cc-4d0b-bbd6-10a1ff5cdea1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Mack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FMP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emmett, ID 83617
With 30 years of experience in nursing and the last 17 in psychiatric care, Kathy is highly knowledgeable and supportive. She is a safe space for all people in the Treasure Valley area. The philosophy is client centered, even if you have never been on medications and some one may have suggested them or have been on them for years and they are not working as well as before. We will talk about what your expectations are and the recommendations are based on best practice guidelines and tailored to your needs. We have recently added an in person option for clients to be seen in a clinic. We will be at 2209 N. Whitley Dr. in Fruitland.
With 30 years of experience in nursing and the last 17 in psychiatric care, Kathy is highly knowledgeable and supportive. She is a safe space for all people in the Treasure Valley area. The philosophy is client centered, even if you have never been on medications and some one may have suggested them or have been on them for years and they are not working as well as before. We will talk about what your expectations are and the recommendations are based on best practice guidelines and tailored to your needs. We have recently added an in person option for clients to be seen in a clinic. We will be at 2209 N. Whitley Dr. in Fruitland.
![Photo of Elisa M Salazar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a103e56-ad08-4d70-aeb4-5a18c9f19cef/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric/ Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am experienced assessing and treating patients age 16-65 for a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. I have additional experience in treating late adolescents and young adults (age 16-25) in first onset of psychosis and other mental illness.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric/ Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am experienced assessing and treating patients age 16-65 for a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. I have additional experience in treating late adolescents and young adults (age 16-25) in first onset of psychosis and other mental illness.
![Photo of Dana McKee, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12f711dd-4092-4fe7-93c6-e027e1ce8f31/6/320x400.jpeg)
Dana McKee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
Hi! I’m Dana McKee, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing at Treasure Valley Psychology. My specialty is mental health evaluation and medication management for conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, and more. I am also certified to treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. This means I am equipped to support people preparing for, in the midst of, and following a pregnancy and during lactation. I happily work with non-birthing partners, intended, and adoptive parents, as well as any non-childbearing adult desiring compassionate and supportive mental health care.
Hi! I’m Dana McKee, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing at Treasure Valley Psychology. My specialty is mental health evaluation and medication management for conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, and more. I am also certified to treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. This means I am equipped to support people preparing for, in the midst of, and following a pregnancy and during lactation. I happily work with non-birthing partners, intended, and adoptive parents, as well as any non-childbearing adult desiring compassionate and supportive mental health care.
![Photo of Alexandra Seaman, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b63efbd6-1ce0-4337-ad25-369b953bffc1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients! Alex Seaman at Well Being provides Psychiatric Medication Management for Children, Adolescents and Adults.
Now accepting new clients! Alex Seaman at Well Being provides Psychiatric Medication Management for Children, Adolescents and Adults.
![Photo of Daniel Marshall, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dead4f6f-d201-47eb-84a8-a7d1ae07b47a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients! Dan Marshall at Well Being provides Psychiatric Medication Management for Children, Adolescents and Adults.
Now accepting new clients! Dan Marshall at Well Being provides Psychiatric Medication Management for Children, Adolescents and Adults.
![Photo of Nerkissa Curtis Dixon, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e05097bf-f03b-4fed-8ad7-26537696baa0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nerkissa Curtis Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83713 (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step in seeking high quality mental health treatment! Have you been experiencing low energy or low motivation? Do you often worry constantly about your loved ones, or have a constant fear that something bad may happen? Do you often lay in bed at night with racing thoughts and find it difficult to fall asleep or even stay asleep? Have you noticed mood changes or find that many situations cause you to feel irritated? I am here to you tell that it is OK to seek mental health treatment for how you feel!
Congratulations on taking the first step in seeking high quality mental health treatment! Have you been experiencing low energy or low motivation? Do you often worry constantly about your loved ones, or have a constant fear that something bad may happen? Do you often lay in bed at night with racing thoughts and find it difficult to fall asleep or even stay asleep? Have you noticed mood changes or find that many situations cause you to feel irritated? I am here to you tell that it is OK to seek mental health treatment for how you feel!
![Photo of Jessica L Todd, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c49ee43-1133-4370-93d9-5f396968311a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a doctoral degree from Idaho State University. I have been in the nursing field for 25 years with a focus in mental health and community nursing. I work with a variety of clients ages 8-40 and have a special love of caring for teens and young adults. I enjoy helping clients and their families through utilizing a holistic approach. I believe in treating the whole person by incorporating positive lifestyle changes, brief therapeutic interventions, and evidence based medications.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a doctoral degree from Idaho State University. I have been in the nursing field for 25 years with a focus in mental health and community nursing. I work with a variety of clients ages 8-40 and have a special love of caring for teens and young adults. I enjoy helping clients and their families through utilizing a holistic approach. I believe in treating the whole person by incorporating positive lifestyle changes, brief therapeutic interventions, and evidence based medications.
![Photo of Ryan Shackelford, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460d3ee6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you suffering with depression and/or anxiety? Have medications not been enough? Are you feeling stuck or keep hitting the same barriers in life? Difficulty in your relationships? Do you want to work in an accelerated and intensive manner with a knowledgeable and supportive therapist? If any of this is true or you have any range of emotional issues you need help with then please call me for help.
Are you suffering with depression and/or anxiety? Have medications not been enough? Are you feeling stuck or keep hitting the same barriers in life? Difficulty in your relationships? Do you want to work in an accelerated and intensive manner with a knowledgeable and supportive therapist? If any of this is true or you have any range of emotional issues you need help with then please call me for help.
![Photo of Danielle Wilson - Resolve Psychiatric Services, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1eafbb3-dd0f-4a81-a06e-d85b96d99b0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Resolve Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83713 (Online Only)
We specialize in mental health treatment for Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and ODD in children, teens/adolescents and adults. We treat a small group of clients and focus on personalization of mental health services, in the comfort of your home, through telemedicine. Allow us to provide quality mental health telepsychiatry to you or your child.
We specialize in mental health treatment for Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and ODD in children, teens/adolescents and adults. We treat a small group of clients and focus on personalization of mental health services, in the comfort of your home, through telemedicine. Allow us to provide quality mental health telepsychiatry to you or your child.
![Photo of Emily Davidson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30fc9872-51e5-4e24-b713-545a4abe42b1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I’m Emily. I am a holistic and integrative PMHNP committed to helping you achieve optimal mental well-being. I treat adults, adolescents and children. I offer a warm, compassionate space and personalized approach. I am trained in traditional psychiatry and have also completed an internship in integrative psychiatry. My goal is to get to the root cause of your issues, rather than just apply a “bandaid” solution. I will work alongside you to heal your body, mind and spirit
Hi there! I’m Emily. I am a holistic and integrative PMHNP committed to helping you achieve optimal mental well-being. I treat adults, adolescents and children. I offer a warm, compassionate space and personalized approach. I am trained in traditional psychiatry and have also completed an internship in integrative psychiatry. My goal is to get to the root cause of your issues, rather than just apply a “bandaid” solution. I will work alongside you to heal your body, mind and spirit
![Photo of Christopher Gakwa - Healthy Mind Behavioral Health Clinic, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75b6d331-4e9a-490f-886b-e1f1671f1487/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healthy Mind Behavioral Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
We are now offering medication management services through telehealth & in person. Please contact us to learn more and see if you qualify. We offer same day visits. Call Today 2082847100 or (986) 234-6010
We are now offering medication management services through telehealth & in person. Please contact us to learn more and see if you qualify. We offer same day visits. Call Today 2082847100 or (986) 234-6010
![Photo of Duke Mutua Nyarecha - Dumu Psychiatry LLC., DNP, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d2300d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dumu Psychiatry LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704
As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner the most significant part of my work is to provide a healing presence. Healing presence is being consciously and compassionately in the present moment with another or with others, believing in and affirming their potential for wholeness, wherever they are in life. I have found this an invaluable tool when dealing with patients in a mental crisis. It has helped me dismantle mistrust, helped me create rapport, helped me creating a lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients. When you are completely present, you stay awake to each unfolding moment.
As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner the most significant part of my work is to provide a healing presence. Healing presence is being consciously and compassionately in the present moment with another or with others, believing in and affirming their potential for wholeness, wherever they are in life. I have found this an invaluable tool when dealing with patients in a mental crisis. It has helped me dismantle mistrust, helped me create rapport, helped me creating a lasting therapeutic relationships with my patients. When you are completely present, you stay awake to each unfolding moment.
![Photo of Michelle Monson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f432b20-68f2-40d4-b1b5-8cc4b25c6bc2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Monson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702 (Online Only)
Michelle is a compassionate PMHNP dedicated to helping others create or build upon a strong foundation of mental wellness through medication management, nutracuetical supplementation, and overall wellness. She recognizes the need to address one’s mental health is essential in treating the whole being. She treats adults ages 18+ with a wide range of mental health ailments to include depression, anxiety, trauma/stress, ADHD, sleep struggles, bipolar disorders and beyond. Please specify with inquiry if you are located in TX or ID and if you are self-pay or which insurance.
Michelle is a compassionate PMHNP dedicated to helping others create or build upon a strong foundation of mental wellness through medication management, nutracuetical supplementation, and overall wellness. She recognizes the need to address one’s mental health is essential in treating the whole being. She treats adults ages 18+ with a wide range of mental health ailments to include depression, anxiety, trauma/stress, ADHD, sleep struggles, bipolar disorders and beyond. Please specify with inquiry if you are located in TX or ID and if you are self-pay or which insurance.
![Photo of Charles Rodney Sharpe, MSN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7994ac55-8bfc-49bb-885e-bdb18b730c5a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charles Rodney Sharpe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706 (Online Only)
I work with adult clients who are seeking specialized care beyond just getting medication refills. I am an expert in assessing and treating several psychiatric disorders including and not limited to Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar I Disorder, Bipolar II Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Panic Disorder and much more. UPDATE - I am offering psychiatric medication management with counseling, but am no longer taking counseling-only patients.
I work with adult clients who are seeking specialized care beyond just getting medication refills. I am an expert in assessing and treating several psychiatric disorders including and not limited to Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar I Disorder, Bipolar II Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Panic Disorder and much more. UPDATE - I am offering psychiatric medication management with counseling, but am no longer taking counseling-only patients.
See more therapy options for Boise County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Boise County, ID
< 10
Psychiatrists in Boise County, ID who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Divorce |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Boise County, ID see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Boise 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.