Psychiatrists in Butler County, 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.
![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
El Dorado, KS 67042
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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Nicole Xanders-Danler, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33741707-4015-4bf8-880c-8a76990cdf00/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Xanders-Danler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Derby, KS 67037
I am a Kansas native who is passionate about my home state and the people living in it. I genuinely see each and every person through unique, compassionate, and empathetic eyes. I work with my clients to manage chronic mental health situations, especially addressing situations that present multiple barriers to care. If you are looking for someone to walk through the struggles of mental health with, I have the tools, resources, and attitude to help you live a happier and healthier life! I will treat you with the utmost kindness and respect, advocating with and for you to achieve positive mental health outcomes!
I am a Kansas native who is passionate about my home state and the people living in it. I genuinely see each and every person through unique, compassionate, and empathetic eyes. I work with my clients to manage chronic mental health situations, especially addressing situations that present multiple barriers to care. If you are looking for someone to walk through the struggles of mental health with, I have the tools, resources, and attitude to help you live a happier and healthier life! I will treat you with the utmost kindness and respect, advocating with and for you to achieve positive mental health outcomes!
![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.
![Photo of Sabra L Tieperman - Virtual Psychiatric Services, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3678dcd6-fa88-4409-9372-403bf1192801/1/320x400.jpeg)
Virtual Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Newton, KS 67114 (Online Only)
My name is Sabra Tieperman. I have more than 20 years of experience as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse treating people of all ages. I established Virtual Psychiatric Services to make treatment accessible to everyone in a way that maximizes privacy, comfort, and convenience. With my online format of care you no longer need to worry about the hassles involved in traveling to an office, embarrassment about being seen in a mental health clinic, or fear being seen in person by a professional. And you don’t have to substitute services by your family doctor when you’d prefer to see a specialist. VPS eliminates all those concerns.
My name is Sabra Tieperman. I have more than 20 years of experience as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse treating people of all ages. I established Virtual Psychiatric Services to make treatment accessible to everyone in a way that maximizes privacy, comfort, and convenience. With my online format of care you no longer need to worry about the hassles involved in traveling to an office, embarrassment about being seen in a mental health clinic, or fear being seen in person by a professional. And you don’t have to substitute services by your family doctor when you’d prefer to see a specialist. VPS eliminates all those concerns.
![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 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 Ediomi 'edee' Enebong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b600d3d-04ca-460a-8164-8c3977617804/2/320x400.png)
Ediomi 'edee' Enebong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67216 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
![Photo of Amy Quinn, MPH, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e2da7ad-4759-43df-890d-fddba1dbd864/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a certified PA with a passion for ADHD and Neurodivergence. I enjoy working with children and adults, treating each person as an individual without judgement. I provide medication management for all psychiatric disorders, and specialize in the treatment of ADHD & Autism. I am currently accepting new patients.
I am a certified PA with a passion for ADHD and Neurodivergence. I enjoy working with children and adults, treating each person as an individual without judgement. I provide medication management for all psychiatric disorders, and specialize in the treatment of ADHD & Autism. I am currently accepting new patients.
![Photo of Scot Yarnell, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5d4a840-2bf4-4b79-9dfe-c191149d8e56/2/320x400.jpeg)
I created Sound Psychiatry and Healthcare to allow mental health to be available to rural Kansas. I live in Great Bend, Kansas where I work at a community mental health center four days a week allowing me to see patients independently on Mondays by telehealth and in person in Emporia and Dodge City, KS. I previously worked in Wichita where I would have patients drive hours from Western Kansas to be seen.
I created Sound Psychiatry and Healthcare to allow mental health to be available to rural Kansas. I live in Great Bend, Kansas where I work at a community mental health center four days a week allowing me to see patients independently on Mondays by telehealth and in person in Emporia and Dodge City, KS. I previously worked in Wichita where I would have patients drive hours from Western Kansas to be seen.
![Photo of Angela Christine Kingsbury, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Kansas , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/091bf97c-4e72-4eb9-bd22-bc32a981e6aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Christine Kingsbury
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Kansas
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67401 (Online Only)
Angela is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is available to treat Kansas residents. She is experienced to treat a wide range of mental and behavioral health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. Angela advocates for her patients to meet all psychosocial needs. She nurtures patients to overcome barriers, using evidence-based solutions, and believes early identification and treatment is necessary for successful remission. Angela understands that each individual is unique, & works with the patient when building a therapeutic treatment plan to meet the best outcome!
Angela is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is available to treat Kansas residents. She is experienced to treat a wide range of mental and behavioral health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. Angela advocates for her patients to meet all psychosocial needs. She nurtures patients to overcome barriers, using evidence-based solutions, and believes early identification and treatment is necessary for successful remission. Angela understands that each individual is unique, & works with the patient when building a therapeutic treatment plan to meet the best outcome!
![Photo of Susan P Mileham, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e5869a5-577d-470a-8ff2-9c4a1fc6c9de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan P Mileham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67212
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in children 6+, adolescents, and adults, with a focus on ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I am dedicated to improving the mental health and overall well-being of my patients. I am passionate about providing compassionate and evidence-based care to those in need. As a result of this, I opened my Spravato (esketamine) CIII - Nasal Spray Treatment Center in May 2022. I am inspired by the significant positive changes this treatment brings to my patient's lives. I will continue to offer this treatment to my patients and collaborate with providers who refer their patients for this treatment.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in children 6+, adolescents, and adults, with a focus on ADHD, depression, and anxiety, I am dedicated to improving the mental health and overall well-being of my patients. I am passionate about providing compassionate and evidence-based care to those in need. As a result of this, I opened my Spravato (esketamine) CIII - Nasal Spray Treatment Center in May 2022. I am inspired by the significant positive changes this treatment brings to my patient's lives. I will continue to offer this treatment to my patients and collaborate with providers who refer their patients for this treatment.
![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
Arkansas City, KS 67005
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 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 Amy Adams, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdb46260-97a1-4e38-acc4-8eb92c5b6673/2/320x400.jpeg)
I found my passion for mental health during my 2nd semester of nursing school. After graduating with my BSN in 2007, I started my first job as a psychiatric nurse and never looked back. I earned my MSN in 2021, now practicing as a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the Wichita area. I have experience in providing medication management for a variety of psychiatric diagnoses, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, insomnia, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders. I take pride in my ability to connect with my patients and their families.
I found my passion for mental health during my 2nd semester of nursing school. After graduating with my BSN in 2007, I started my first job as a psychiatric nurse and never looked back. I earned my MSN in 2021, now practicing as a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the Wichita area. I have experience in providing medication management for a variety of psychiatric diagnoses, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, insomnia, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders. I take pride in my ability to connect with my patients and their families.
![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 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.
See more therapy options for Butler County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Butler County, KS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Butler County, KS who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Depression |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
60% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Aetna |
60% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Butler County, KS see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Butler 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.