Psychiatrists in Andover, KS
![Photo of Misty McReynolds, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62499c03-0c23-4b3a-9cfa-91c52fc17fa5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Misty McReynolds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, KS 67002
I believe that the foundations of a strong therapeutic alliance are equality, collaboration, and mutual respect. Clients are the experts about their unique internal and external experiences. From the foundation of our therapeutic alliance, a safe space is created. Clients can share their expertise about their own experiences, and I can share my expertise in psychiatric mental health. Together we can coauthor a plan to optimize your wellness.
I believe that the foundations of a strong therapeutic alliance are equality, collaboration, and mutual respect. Clients are the experts about their unique internal and external experiences. From the foundation of our therapeutic alliance, a safe space is created. Clients can share their expertise about their own experiences, and I can share my expertise in psychiatric mental health. Together we can coauthor a plan to optimize your wellness.
![Photo of Kelsey Barnickle, APRN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6b82c89-214f-4c31-b8c0-c80fbe876681/1/320x400.jpeg)
I graduated as a Registered Nurse with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Washburn University in 2010. I worked in the hospital as a nurse in labor and delivery and pediatrics. I then decided I wanted to do more with my nursing career so went back to school and graduated as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Ball State University in July 2016.
I graduated as a Registered Nurse with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Washburn University in 2010. I worked in the hospital as a nurse in labor and delivery and pediatrics. I then decided I wanted to do more with my nursing career so went back to school and graduated as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Ball State University in July 2016.
![Photo of Sasha Lounmala, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd618539-4439-41b3-a532-bc18114a379d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sasha Lounmala is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides full range psychiatric-mental health care across the lifespan to evaluate, diagnose, prescribe and administer psychotherapy.
Sasha Lounmala is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides full range psychiatric-mental health care across the lifespan to evaluate, diagnose, prescribe and administer psychotherapy.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Julius Quinn, MHA, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6bc6923-3833-4551-99bf-068539bfeec5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julius Quinn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHA, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67226
My perfect client is driven and prepared to put in the effort. They possess an open-minded and flexible attitude, along with the ability to adapt to new situations. They are introspective, contemplative, and possess a genuine curiosity about themselves. Effective communication, honesty, and trustworthiness are also important qualities they possess. A good sense of humor is an added bonus, as well as being receptive to different treatment approaches. Most importantly, they understand that personal growth cannot be achieved solely through medication and believe in their own potential for improvement.
My perfect client is driven and prepared to put in the effort. They possess an open-minded and flexible attitude, along with the ability to adapt to new situations. They are introspective, contemplative, and possess a genuine curiosity about themselves. Effective communication, honesty, and trustworthiness are also important qualities they possess. A good sense of humor is an added bonus, as well as being receptive to different treatment approaches. Most importantly, they understand that personal growth cannot be achieved solely through medication and believe in their own potential for improvement.
![Photo of Laveta Jarrett, APRN, MSN, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22e4d584-7273-4a73-bfbe-b45188fd43b9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laveta Jarrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67207
✣ TAKING NEW CLIENTS ✣ I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of expertise in mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, cultural stressors, and clients in crisis. I also specialize in helping with medication management for those struggling with substance abuse. In addition to medication evaluation, I seek to understand my patients from a holistic perspective by evaluating the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to their emotional concerns.
✣ TAKING NEW CLIENTS ✣ I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of expertise in mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, cultural stressors, and clients in crisis. I also specialize in helping with medication management for those struggling with substance abuse. In addition to medication evaluation, I seek to understand my patients from a holistic perspective by evaluating the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to their emotional concerns.
![Photo of Julia McVay, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70b9acd6-b68c-405a-b111-68109b81e657/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia McVay, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has 8 years of nursing experience and her education includes a Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization. Julia takes great pride in providing exceptional care to all patients.
Julia McVay, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has 8 years of nursing experience and her education includes a Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialization. Julia takes great pride in providing exceptional care to all patients.
![Photo of Julia K Ouko - Simply Better Behavioral Health Services, LLC, MSN, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/639227f0-cfba-463e-8881-6d2802fe26e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Simply Better Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67226
Simply Better Behavioral Health is a mental health outpatient clinic in Wichita, Kansas with years of experience providing psychiatric treatments for children, adolescents, and adults. Our mental health consultants offer personalized and holistic care plans through our services. We’ll help you overcome problems, such as: ADHD ,Anxiety, Depression , OCD, ODD, Parent Behavioral Management Training Medication Management, etc.Call or email for a free 15 minute consultation.
Simply Better Behavioral Health is a mental health outpatient clinic in Wichita, Kansas with years of experience providing psychiatric treatments for children, adolescents, and adults. Our mental health consultants offer personalized and holistic care plans through our services. We’ll help you overcome problems, such as: ADHD ,Anxiety, Depression , OCD, ODD, Parent Behavioral Management Training Medication Management, etc.Call or email for a free 15 minute consultation.
![Photo of Uyen Dinh, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19ac4ee2-6076-4a71-bf2a-95592b5fe8ae/1/320x400.png)
Uyen Dinh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67208
Website: Copy and paste link to request consultation/scheduling > Nowpsychiatryservices.com/consultationappointment. —— We, as humans, all have emotions. Even the strongest can break sometimes. Mental illness does not discriminate and can happen to anyone in their life time. We need to de-stigmatize mental illness and normalize mental health treatment as a priority. I hope to be able to provide my patients with the tool they need in order to be successful in whatever challenges they may be facing.
Website: Copy and paste link to request consultation/scheduling > Nowpsychiatryservices.com/consultationappointment. —— We, as humans, all have emotions. Even the strongest can break sometimes. Mental illness does not discriminate and can happen to anyone in their life time. We need to de-stigmatize mental illness and normalize mental health treatment as a priority. I hope to be able to provide my patients with the tool they need in order to be successful in whatever challenges they may be facing.
![Photo of Bob Born, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b67a36-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with WOMEN who are survivors of abuse and assault to overcome their trauma, set boundaries, and move forward with their lives. Many women today carry the heavy weight of trauma, whether from abuse, significant life events, or ongoing challenges. These experiences leave deep scars, often resulting in feelings of unworthiness, self-blame, and inner turmoil that persist throughout their daily lives. I also specialize in The Hidden Struggles of Successful MEN who work in today's fast-paced, high-stakes work environment, in their relentless cycle of pressure and performance. I treat depression, anxiety and PTSD.
I specialize in working with WOMEN who are survivors of abuse and assault to overcome their trauma, set boundaries, and move forward with their lives. Many women today carry the heavy weight of trauma, whether from abuse, significant life events, or ongoing challenges. These experiences leave deep scars, often resulting in feelings of unworthiness, self-blame, and inner turmoil that persist throughout their daily lives. I also specialize in The Hidden Struggles of Successful MEN who work in today's fast-paced, high-stakes work environment, in their relentless cycle of pressure and performance. I treat depression, anxiety and PTSD.
![Photo of Frances Miller, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1428aa68-1f8e-4b67-a630-ee9be01ad58a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Frances Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67206
Welcoming New Patients! Frances (Fran) Miller APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP NP-C. Fran holds dual board certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She provides mental health services including diagnosis and medication management for children, teens, and adults. Fran will work with you to meet your mental health goals in a dignified and respectful manner. She is passionate about educating her patients and their families about their diagnoses, medications, and treatment plans. Fran strives to give compassionate care in a friendly, comfortable setting to the community she serves.
Welcoming New Patients! Frances (Fran) Miller APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP NP-C. Fran holds dual board certifications as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She provides mental health services including diagnosis and medication management for children, teens, and adults. Fran will work with you to meet your mental health goals in a dignified and respectful manner. She is passionate about educating her patients and their families about their diagnoses, medications, and treatment plans. Fran strives to give compassionate care in a friendly, comfortable setting to the community she serves.
![Photo of Tabitha Attreau, MSN, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75fd2177-d471-4608-a26c-991a7840f612/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tabitha Attreau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67206
I am currently accepting new patients ages 5 and up. It is important to me that all patients feel welcome and are aware that I am an LGBTQIA+ friendly provider. I provide medication management for anxiety, mood disorders, neurodivergence, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, attachment disorders, OCD, oppositional defiance disorder, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders.
I am currently accepting new patients ages 5 and up. It is important to me that all patients feel welcome and are aware that I am an LGBTQIA+ friendly provider. I provide medication management for anxiety, mood disorders, neurodivergence, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, attachment disorders, OCD, oppositional defiance disorder, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Amber Moore, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38ff2c62-945c-4a98-a0bc-2cca3802d601/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67208 (Online Only)
I am Accepting New Patients 6 and over in Kansas, Arizona, and New Mexico who are seeking medication management and supportive therapy. Do you want to live a fulfilling life but need guidance to reach those goals? It takes tremendous courage to heal from past traumas, but I want to tell you it is possible. It is possible to live a life of hope and happiness and to find your true, authentic self along the way. Change doesn't happen overnight, but you have taken the first step in finding a new way of life.
I am Accepting New Patients 6 and over in Kansas, Arizona, and New Mexico who are seeking medication management and supportive therapy. Do you want to live a fulfilling life but need guidance to reach those goals? It takes tremendous courage to heal from past traumas, but I want to tell you it is possible. It is possible to live a life of hope and happiness and to find your true, authentic self along the way. Change doesn't happen overnight, but you have taken the first step in finding a new way of life.
I specialize in pediatric psychiatric medication management for individuals aged 5 to 17 years old. My passion is to guide children and young people in achieving their optimal quality of life, while successfully accomplishing socio-emotional developmental milestones.
I specialize in pediatric psychiatric medication management for individuals aged 5 to 17 years old. My passion is to guide children and young people in achieving their optimal quality of life, while successfully accomplishing socio-emotional developmental milestones.
![Photo of Krystal Mitchell, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30ec978b-d181-4a8e-918b-fa4c83dd118e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Krystal, a psychiatric medication management specialist with a passion for understanding and supporting my patients. I've spent my career since the age of 19 immersed in mental health, driven by a desire to help individuals achieve happiness and fulfillment. Your journey and goals are unique, and I take the time to truly listen and understand what's important to you. By knowing your values and what makes you, you, I can tailor our treatment to fit your specific needs.
Hello, I'm Krystal, a psychiatric medication management specialist with a passion for understanding and supporting my patients. I've spent my career since the age of 19 immersed in mental health, driven by a desire to help individuals achieve happiness and fulfillment. Your journey and goals are unique, and I take the time to truly listen and understand what's important to you. By knowing your values and what makes you, you, I can tailor our treatment to fit your specific needs.
![Photo of Ashley Ludlum, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0e9a5c3-516c-4576-a6a2-bcc552782f2a/2/320x400.jpeg)
In 2010, I graduated from Hesston College as a Registered Nurse. I began my nursing career in High Risk OB and GYN, in a hospital setting. I have also worked in surgical services and in research. It was during my time in research that I found my passion for mental health and made the decision to pursue a career in the field. I took a position at Psychiatric Consultants of Wichita working as a nurse, scribe, and Spravato Coordinator while pursuing a bachelor's degree and eventually a master's degree. I graduated from Walden University in 2022 as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I continued working at PCW.
In 2010, I graduated from Hesston College as a Registered Nurse. I began my nursing career in High Risk OB and GYN, in a hospital setting. I have also worked in surgical services and in research. It was during my time in research that I found my passion for mental health and made the decision to pursue a career in the field. I took a position at Psychiatric Consultants of Wichita working as a nurse, scribe, and Spravato Coordinator while pursuing a bachelor's degree and eventually a master's degree. I graduated from Walden University in 2022 as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I continued working at PCW.
![Photo of Angela Theobald, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d349096a-edca-4363-9ffc-fa2774800be1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Looking for a medication manager that takes into account your unique background and mental health needs? As a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in family practice and the management of depression and other mental health problems, Angela provides a client-centered and comprehensive approach to mental health medication management. Prior to becoming licensed as a nurse practitioner, Angela spent more than 14 years as an RN working in a variety of practice settings including acute care, case management, hospice, and pediatric home care.
Looking for a medication manager that takes into account your unique background and mental health needs? As a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in family practice and the management of depression and other mental health problems, Angela provides a client-centered and comprehensive approach to mental health medication management. Prior to becoming licensed as a nurse practitioner, Angela spent more than 14 years as an RN working in a variety of practice settings including acute care, case management, hospice, and pediatric home care.
![Photo of Angela Armstrong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/478405c8-1a6b-4848-a0af-1791308b1070/2/320x400.png)
Angela Armstrong, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds Master of Science in Nursing degrees in both Psychiatric Nursing and Nursing Education. She has been working in healthcare since 2007 in a variety of settings including infection control, public health, and long-term care. She provides interventions, treatment, and holistic support to clients across the lifespan with acute, chronic, and substance-induced mental illness. Angela’s approach is to provide high-quality, client-focused care to meet the unique needs of each client.
Angela Armstrong, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds Master of Science in Nursing degrees in both Psychiatric Nursing and Nursing Education. She has been working in healthcare since 2007 in a variety of settings including infection control, public health, and long-term care. She provides interventions, treatment, and holistic support to clients across the lifespan with acute, chronic, and substance-induced mental illness. Angela’s approach is to provide high-quality, client-focused care to meet the unique needs of each client.
![Photo of Michelle Ford - Serenity Health Solutions, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65bc73b3-0282-4f91-9ea2-41c5ff294c2c/1/320x400.png)
Serenity Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67206
Michelle Ford is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. She provides a comprehensive and holistic approach, addressing a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
Michelle Ford is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. She provides a comprehensive and holistic approach, addressing a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
![Photo of Anthony Donald Minja, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4a73e74-b3aa-41c8-b7c6-dc389bb8c566/2/320x400.png)
Taking New Patients: I am a Board Certified Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with many years in community mental health, inpatient care, substance abuse, and private practice. I provide mental health medication evaluations as well as medication management. I work with patients across the life span. I provide a holistic approach when it comes to my patient's mental health needs.
Taking New Patients: I am a Board Certified Primary Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with many years in community mental health, inpatient care, substance abuse, and private practice. I provide mental health medication evaluations as well as medication management. I work with patients across the life span. I provide a holistic approach when it comes to my patient's mental health needs.
See more therapy options for Andover
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Andover, KS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Andover, KS who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Depression |
75% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
75% | Aetna |
50% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Andover, KS 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 Andover?
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.