Psychiatrists in Idaho Falls, ID
![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 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 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 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 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 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.
![Photo of Satu H Woodland - Hope Mental Health, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfa3d1e-5475-4717-81c3-58cf7b2fdf8d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Satu Woodland and am the Clinic Owner and Clinician at Hope Mental Health. We are a mental health clinic providing psych evals, med management and psychotherapy.
Hi, I'm Satu Woodland and am the Clinic Owner and Clinician at Hope Mental Health. We are a mental health clinic providing psych evals, med management and psychotherapy.
![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 Jeremy L Hurst, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ab7345f-032b-407b-8628-3bf9a2535122/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy L Hurst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Idaho Falls, ID 83404 (Online Only)
Embark on a transformative journey to inner harmony with Harmony NP. Recognize the power in saying 'enough.' Struggling with anxiety, depression, or life's challenges? I can help! As a compassionate mental health provider, I blend expertise with empathy. Let's navigate to emotional well-being, unlocking your harmony. Harnessing cutting-edge genomic testing and personalized medication therapy, I tailor solutions for your unique needs. Your balanced future starts here!
Embark on a transformative journey to inner harmony with Harmony NP. Recognize the power in saying 'enough.' Struggling with anxiety, depression, or life's challenges? I can help! As a compassionate mental health provider, I blend expertise with empathy. Let's navigate to emotional well-being, unlocking your harmony. Harnessing cutting-edge genomic testing and personalized medication therapy, I tailor solutions for your unique needs. Your balanced future starts here!
![Photo of Alicia Berger - Balance Psychiatric Services, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79759470-e85f-45f0-a674-7149ad60b664/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Idaho Falls, ID 83401
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
![Photo of Anne Shields, MSN, PMH-CNS, C-FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d363c8a-c41e-44ea-9149-fa918dc426d9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Shields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMH-CNS, C-FNP
Verified Verified
Idaho Falls, ID 83403 (Online Only)
You may not pick your problems but you decide what to feel and do about them. When blinded by fear, grief and anger, making good decisions isn't easy to do. Everyone experiences loss. (family, friends, jobs, health, a home, youth, even your independence). It's even worse when you've lost your confidence and dignity as well. No amount of hiding under the covers, rage or regret is going to fix those things. It will require physical, emotional and spiritual healing to reconnect with the miracle of life. When do you hold on? When do you let go? When do you push through?......How?
You may not pick your problems but you decide what to feel and do about them. When blinded by fear, grief and anger, making good decisions isn't easy to do. Everyone experiences loss. (family, friends, jobs, health, a home, youth, even your independence). It's even worse when you've lost your confidence and dignity as well. No amount of hiding under the covers, rage or regret is going to fix those things. It will require physical, emotional and spiritual healing to reconnect with the miracle of life. When do you hold on? When do you let go? When do you push through?......How?
15 Second Videos
Amber J Birch
Hope Mental Health
Tyson Flower
Balance Psychiatric Services
![Photo of Karen Schaaf, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/befc02c5-a703-40c7-8db7-17f83909ca8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Schaaf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Idaho Falls, ID 83404 (Online Only)
Are you grappling with feelings of depression or anxiety? I can help you overcome some of these feelings. The goal would be to navigate a route toward a happier and healthier future. I look at the whole person and provide dignity and respect. I look at your needs to figure out how to work through the frustrations that you are dealing with. Guiding you through your crisis and providing problem-solving skills.
Are you grappling with feelings of depression or anxiety? I can help you overcome some of these feelings. The goal would be to navigate a route toward a happier and healthier future. I look at the whole person and provide dignity and respect. I look at your needs to figure out how to work through the frustrations that you are dealing with. Guiding you through your crisis and providing problem-solving skills.
![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
Idaho Falls, ID 83403
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.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 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.
![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
Rexburg, ID 83440
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.
![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 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 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 Adam Horn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82ab942b-e843-4b95-aae4-2c811c3dae2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rexburg, ID 83440 (Online Only)
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.
See more therapy options for Idaho Falls
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Idaho Falls, ID
10+
Average cost per session
$245
Psychiatrists in Idaho Falls, ID who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
92% | ADHD |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | Depression |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
85% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | PacificSource |
82% | Blue Cross |
73% | Regence |
How Psychiatrists in Idaho Falls, ID see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Idaho Falls?
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.