Psychiatrists in Manhattan, KS
![Photo of Jackie McIntyre, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/365a3e1c-e741-4e27-b73c-02fa7a66f324/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jackie McIntyre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manhattan, KS 66502 (Online Only)
My name is Jackie McIntyre and I provide medication management for mental health clients. I bring over a decade of nursing experience to the table. Throughout my career, I've had the honor of serving in critical care and mental health environments, where I've been privileged to make meaningful connections with patients and colleagues alike. My journey as a travel nurse spanning five years provided me with invaluable experiences across different hospitals. These experiences have enriched my perspective and profoundly influenced my approach to care, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and compassion.
My name is Jackie McIntyre and I provide medication management for mental health clients. I bring over a decade of nursing experience to the table. Throughout my career, I've had the honor of serving in critical care and mental health environments, where I've been privileged to make meaningful connections with patients and colleagues alike. My journey as a travel nurse spanning five years provided me with invaluable experiences across different hospitals. These experiences have enriched my perspective and profoundly influenced my approach to care, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and compassion.
Cheryl Headley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan, KS 66502 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is available to treat Kansas residents. I have experience in treating a wide range of mental and behavioral health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. I understand that each individual is unique and will work with the patient to meet their individual needs. I used evidence-based practice to support medication options available to you. My role is to offer you treatment options and help guide you in in finding treatment that fits your needs.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is available to treat Kansas residents. I have experience in treating a wide range of mental and behavioral health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. I understand that each individual is unique and will work with the patient to meet their individual needs. I used evidence-based practice to support medication options available to you. My role is to offer you treatment options and help guide you in in finding treatment that fits your needs.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Kristin Cunningham, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85ad8c20-448b-407b-83e3-371d5224eda7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate Appointments Available! I am board certified in psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan. I am especially passionate about caring for children, adolescents, and members of the queer community. I am kink/polyamory/LGBTQ+ affirming and strive to provide care that honors the complexities of my patients' intersecting identities.
Immediate Appointments Available! I am board certified in psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan. I am especially passionate about caring for children, adolescents, and members of the queer community. I am kink/polyamory/LGBTQ+ affirming and strive to provide care that honors the complexities of my patients' intersecting identities.
![Photo of Vicki Tsai, PMHNP, MSN, MHA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ca9f7a0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vicki Tsai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061
Hello Kansas! Do you need extra help or support through your weight reduction process? We all know mental health and our weight are interconnected. Have you run into the plateau or block during your weight management process? Stress eating? Over eating? Binge eating? I am here to help through the psychological issue and your weight struggles. No more Yo-Yo, no more "fad diets". I am certified nutritionist, and mental health medical provider. My team welcome you to join us through the tough time while working on our mental health as well our physical improvement. We begin with a full body analysis and create workout and eating plan
Hello Kansas! Do you need extra help or support through your weight reduction process? We all know mental health and our weight are interconnected. Have you run into the plateau or block during your weight management process? Stress eating? Over eating? Binge eating? I am here to help through the psychological issue and your weight struggles. No more Yo-Yo, no more "fad diets". I am certified nutritionist, and mental health medical provider. My team welcome you to join us through the tough time while working on our mental health as well our physical improvement. We begin with a full body analysis and create workout and eating plan
![Photo of Shakera Kathleen Snelling, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75979d92-16e4-4b1a-9008-360e89aec360/1/320x400.png)
Shakera Kathleen Snelling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604
Hey! You’re seeking help because it is needed. That’s huge! Many people don’t seek treatment or therapy but you’re already on this path. Some folks don’t find the path. You’ve got some idea of what you need and are ready for someone to be along with you on this journey. We both know humans succeed in a team not so much when we are alone. First, give yourself credit because it takes a lot of courage to not do things alone and to be willing to open up to someone you do not know. Your courage is where our journey together starts. It would be an honor to be a part of your team in life, for life!
Hey! You’re seeking help because it is needed. That’s huge! Many people don’t seek treatment or therapy but you’re already on this path. Some folks don’t find the path. You’ve got some idea of what you need and are ready for someone to be along with you on this journey. We both know humans succeed in a team not so much when we are alone. First, give yourself credit because it takes a lot of courage to not do things alone and to be willing to open up to someone you do not know. Your courage is where our journey together starts. It would be an honor to be a part of your team in life, for life!
![Photo of Madelyn Hindia - Prila Psychiatric Care, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1bcf18e-2690-4623-acc7-98cf651db98a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Prila Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66103
My ideal client may be navigating the challenges of women's mental health or perinatal issues, though I welcome individuals from all backgrounds starting at age 10. They seek understanding, relief from symptoms, and effective coping strategies. Their goals often include improving emotional regulation, overcoming anxiety or depression, and achieving a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a therapist who listens without judgment, offers flexible scheduling, and provides a blend of traditional and holistic treatment options to tailor a care plan that respects their unique needs and life circumstances.
My ideal client may be navigating the challenges of women's mental health or perinatal issues, though I welcome individuals from all backgrounds starting at age 10. They seek understanding, relief from symptoms, and effective coping strategies. Their goals often include improving emotional regulation, overcoming anxiety or depression, and achieving a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a therapist who listens without judgment, offers flexible scheduling, and provides a blend of traditional and holistic treatment options to tailor a care plan that respects their unique needs and life circumstances.
![Photo of Jessica Wunder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63e08028-ac97-4b1c-94c6-f3b967e0a1bf/5/320x400.jpeg)
I am a mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years experience. I help adults struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD feel relief from unwanted thoughts, decrease overwhelm and guilt, find joy and wonder in their daily lives, slow down and enjoy free time all while feeling empowered on their healing journey. Are you feeling irritability or mood swings that are affecting your life and relationships ? Feeling like you are constantly on edge and can’t relax? Looking to find a psychiatric provider who understands and listens to you? Or you might not know exactly what kind of help you need, thats ok, I can help!
I am a mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years experience. I help adults struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD feel relief from unwanted thoughts, decrease overwhelm and guilt, find joy and wonder in their daily lives, slow down and enjoy free time all while feeling empowered on their healing journey. Are you feeling irritability or mood swings that are affecting your life and relationships ? Feeling like you are constantly on edge and can’t relax? Looking to find a psychiatric provider who understands and listens to you? Or you might not know exactly what kind of help you need, thats ok, I can help!
![Photo of Vicki Tsai, PMHNP, MSN, MHA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4caa1191-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I start my Psychiatric nursing career since 1996. Throughout the years old practice, I have extended education, knowledge, and experiences in helping children, adult, and geriatric population with mental and behavioral health issues such as: ADHD, Anxiety disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar and related issues, Childhood mental health concerns, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other severe psychiatric disorders. In addition, I am certified by PSI in managing women with mental health issues during childbearing age.
I start my Psychiatric nursing career since 1996. Throughout the years old practice, I have extended education, knowledge, and experiences in helping children, adult, and geriatric population with mental and behavioral health issues such as: ADHD, Anxiety disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar and related issues, Childhood mental health concerns, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other severe psychiatric disorders. In addition, I am certified by PSI in managing women with mental health issues during childbearing age.
![Photo of Adam Gears, MEd, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d9450b2-8c3b-4fbc-bc24-c6d3d73bd9c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Gears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MEd, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66606 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Adam, a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management in AZ, WA, KA and CO. I'm committed to treating patients with honesty, a touch of humor, and straightforward communication. My main goal is to help patients feel better and regain the life they desire. If medication management isn't the right fit, we'll explore alternative approaches like healthy lifestyle changes, exercise, nutrition, and mindful practices. I'm here for you every step of the way.
Hi there, I'm Adam, a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management in AZ, WA, KA and CO. I'm committed to treating patients with honesty, a touch of humor, and straightforward communication. My main goal is to help patients feel better and regain the life they desire. If medication management isn't the right fit, we'll explore alternative approaches like healthy lifestyle changes, exercise, nutrition, and mindful practices. I'm here for you every step of the way.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/205f4789-2b8c-4334-a3c6-5cdfb14ec04d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Jennifer J Kubin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c1e7201-9b9b-4ffe-b68a-3da3bc24d909/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer J Kubin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baldwin City, KS 66006
I believe that when someone has the courage to reach out for help with their mental health, it should be considered a crisis - because poor mental health can destroy lives.
I believe that when someone has the courage to reach out for help with their mental health, it should be considered a crisis - because poor mental health can destroy lives.
![Photo of Judith W Johnson - Alive Family Psychiatry, APRN, FNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e55f42ec-3947-4aee-b9b1-79bd7056d00d/1/320x400.png)
Alive Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Leavenworth, KS 66048
I've been lucky enough in my lifetime to find the career that ensures that I have always been ready to meet the day. The old saying "if you find something you love to do you will never work another day in your life." That's basically how I feel about what I do. My greatest skill I've been told is the ability to communicate and listen to my patients. I always prefer to let my patients help lead their own way and set goals. Education is an important part of my job, whether it 's helping patients understand a new diagnosis, or medication management. I bring many years of experience to the practice and look forward to meeting you.
I've been lucky enough in my lifetime to find the career that ensures that I have always been ready to meet the day. The old saying "if you find something you love to do you will never work another day in your life." That's basically how I feel about what I do. My greatest skill I've been told is the ability to communicate and listen to my patients. I always prefer to let my patients help lead their own way and set goals. Education is an important part of my job, whether it 's helping patients understand a new diagnosis, or medication management. I bring many years of experience to the practice and look forward to meeting you.
![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 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 Katrina Morriss - Restoring Genesis Holistic Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8383317-3c69-4be9-885c-fdfcf8272514/1/320x400.jpeg)
Restoring Genesis Holistic Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66047
I work with clients to increase their understanding of the thoughts and behavior patterns they have today. I use a multifaceted approach to walk clients through their life experiences lived so far in hopes to bring honor and restoration to those experiences, which is often referred to as their “story”. I believe every story is worth being told. In individual therapy, I provide a safe place that welcomes the storytelling of every individual.
I work with clients to increase their understanding of the thoughts and behavior patterns they have today. I use a multifaceted approach to walk clients through their life experiences lived so far in hopes to bring honor and restoration to those experiences, which is often referred to as their “story”. I believe every story is worth being told. In individual therapy, I provide a safe place that welcomes the storytelling of every individual.
![Photo of Samantha Russell Bereit, MSN, APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e63239ae-ec2f-4409-9c49-84c9064ac204/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Russell Bereit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee, KS 66226
It is my mission to nurture the potential in every child and family. I am devoted to integrating a holistic, individualized treatment plan that caters to the distinct needs of my clients. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications, and develop personalized treatment plans based on the latest evidence and therapeutic techniques.
It is my mission to nurture the potential in every child and family. I am devoted to integrating a holistic, individualized treatment plan that caters to the distinct needs of my clients. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications, and develop personalized treatment plans based on the latest evidence and therapeutic techniques.
![Photo of Ashley Batley, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476990c1-591c-4a01-ad0c-d91bed69f63f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Batley, nurse practitioner, is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. She has experience managing care for individuals across the lifespan with complex trauma and/or intellectual and developmental differences.
Dr Batley, nurse practitioner, is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. She has experience managing care for individuals across the lifespan with complex trauma and/or intellectual and developmental differences.
![Photo of Ethel B Akongnui, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fc1008a-bf2b-4d64-9f84-411e584b036b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ethel B Akongnui
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Junction City, KS 66441 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health across the lifespan. I Possess strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and their families. I follow evidenced-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, and personal observation. My role is multifaceted including mental health advocate, educator and therapist.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive mental health across the lifespan. I Possess strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and their families. I follow evidenced-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, and personal observation. My role is multifaceted including mental health advocate, educator and therapist.
![Photo of Laura Young, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/370601cd-b594-453f-bdf3-09a6247fe8f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Young is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kansas who has been practicing since 2021. Laura was born and raised in Kansas. Her post high school education began at Kansas City Kansas Community College, obtaining her Associates of Science in Nursing in 2009 at the young age of 20 years old on a presidential scholarship awarded from high school. She then went on to working as a bedside nurse for over 12 years. Laura went back to college, obtaining her Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2018 while working.
Laura Young is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kansas who has been practicing since 2021. Laura was born and raised in Kansas. Her post high school education began at Kansas City Kansas Community College, obtaining her Associates of Science in Nursing in 2009 at the young age of 20 years old on a presidential scholarship awarded from high school. She then went on to working as a bedside nurse for over 12 years. Laura went back to college, obtaining her Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2018 while working.
See more therapy options for Manhattan
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Manhattan, KS
< 10
Psychiatrists in Manhattan, KS who prioritize treating:
67% | Depression |
67% | Anxiety |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
33% | ADHD |
33% | Trauma and PTSD |
33% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Manhattan, KS see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Manhattan?
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.