Psychiatrists in Olathe, KS
![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 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 Steven K Elrod, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6133212f-bce1-4dfe-9ecf-23ab4cd65796/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061 (Online Only)
Hi! Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger, PTSD? A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and research-proven treatment options could put you back on the right path.
Hi! Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger, PTSD? A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and research-proven treatment options could put you back on the right path.
![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
Olathe, KS 66062 (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 Violet Meiseiyieki, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00769d60-2460-4895-afe3-d6d3638edfc0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Violet Meiseiyieki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Olathe, KS 66062
Hello! I am glad you made it here. Mental Health can make it challenging to seek help. I am happy you are trying to improve your mental health by looking for a psychiatric provider. Reaching out is the first step to recovery. I have made it easy for you to book an appointment with me through online scheduling. Feel free to call me or email me as well. I look forward to getting to know you as your psychiatric provider and working together to meet your needs and goals.
Hello! I am glad you made it here. Mental Health can make it challenging to seek help. I am happy you are trying to improve your mental health by looking for a psychiatric provider. Reaching out is the first step to recovery. I have made it easy for you to book an appointment with me through online scheduling. Feel free to call me or email me as well. I look forward to getting to know you as your psychiatric provider and working together to meet your needs and goals.
![Photo of Julie Marshall, APRN, PMHMP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3d8e1a5-3167-43a4-b417-88d41e9fedbd/1/320x400.png)
Julie Marshall, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who earned both her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing degrees from Wichita State University. She has gained her experience and passion for mental health working in a variety of settings throughout her career. These include the acute hospital setting for children, adolescents, and adults, residential treatment facilities for youth, and outpatient community health centers.
Julie Marshall, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who earned both her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing degrees from Wichita State University. She has gained her experience and passion for mental health working in a variety of settings throughout her career. These include the acute hospital setting for children, adolescents, and adults, residential treatment facilities for youth, and outpatient community health centers.
![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
Olathe, KS 66062
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 Loise Wameithi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6be80edd-a804-4b8d-a5af-da3cf43efdcf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and longtime healthcare professional in the Kansas city community, it is my passion to help you succeed in your mental health journey with empathy and understanding. I use evidence based approaches to help people to find their unique path forward. Everyone deserves to live a happy, healthy life and if you are struggling, am here to help you in your journey. When providing care, I maintain an attitude of acceptance of the client and work to encourage growth towards wellness.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and longtime healthcare professional in the Kansas city community, it is my passion to help you succeed in your mental health journey with empathy and understanding. I use evidence based approaches to help people to find their unique path forward. Everyone deserves to live a happy, healthy life and if you are struggling, am here to help you in your journey. When providing care, I maintain an attitude of acceptance of the client and work to encourage growth towards wellness.
![Photo of Ediomi Enebong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6649a3d-88c1-4bc5-9008-ac20ec838b8d/3/320x400.png)
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bfcb1c1-b1ff-4f46-99a0-302aaefd25f5/1/320x400.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 Yesenia Olmedo - Buena Vida Integrative Health , DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f2efa69-46c2-42d8-b70c-944e6f24ed2c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Buena Vida Integrative Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66061
At Buena Vida Integrative Health our focus is to treat the person as a whole. We focus on integrative psychiatry, which aims to rebalance the mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and community in the individual. In integrative psychiatry, we focus on combining medication, lifestyle interventions, and therapy modalities, such as brief supportive psychotherapy and solution focused therapy. Our goal is to empower each person to maximize their well-being to reach their ultimate good life or “buena vida” in Spanish.
At Buena Vida Integrative Health our focus is to treat the person as a whole. We focus on integrative psychiatry, which aims to rebalance the mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and community in the individual. In integrative psychiatry, we focus on combining medication, lifestyle interventions, and therapy modalities, such as brief supportive psychotherapy and solution focused therapy. Our goal is to empower each person to maximize their well-being to reach their ultimate good life or “buena vida” in Spanish.
15 Second Videos
Steven K Elrod
Ediomi 'edee' Enebong
Prila Psychiatric Care
Anne Phan-Huy
Buena Vida Integrative Health
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
The Mind Clinic Of Kansas City
Stock Health for Mental Balance
![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 Moses Tabe Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7009bbfa-153a-4c13-acd2-d3a9c3d3527c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66062
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
![Photo of Julie Owens With Beyond Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a714860-1d08-43be-8461-4018aefffb1a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Owens With Beyond Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olathe, KS 66062
You deserve to have the time you need in your appointment to feel heard, validated, and supported. You also deserve a holistic approach to your mental health care, recognizing the intricate interplay between your mental well-being and various facets of your life, including physical health, relationships, and environmental influences. I believe that ‘Health is more than a prescription,’ and I am committed to providing meaningful appointments, ensuring you receive dedicated time and attention. While medications can be crucial in managing mental health, I advocate for a comprehensive approach to your care.
You deserve to have the time you need in your appointment to feel heard, validated, and supported. You also deserve a holistic approach to your mental health care, recognizing the intricate interplay between your mental well-being and various facets of your life, including physical health, relationships, and environmental influences. I believe that ‘Health is more than a prescription,’ and I am committed to providing meaningful appointments, ensuring you receive dedicated time and attention. While medications can be crucial in managing mental health, I advocate for a comprehensive approach to your care.
![Photo of Sospeter Otieno - The Mind Clinic Of Kansas City, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18fb30aa-dfbf-49c1-889c-e15016e72670/2/320x400.png)
Our ideal client battles adjustment, acute or chronic anxiety and depression, impacting daily life due to intrusive thoughts and low mood. Yearns for stability and relief from emotional turmoil. Requires personalized medication management for symptom control. Aspires to emotional balance, enhanced daily life, renewed motivation. Seeks effective meds with minimal side effects for better quality of life and emotional well-being. Aims to regain control, build relationships, find purpose.
Our ideal client battles adjustment, acute or chronic anxiety and depression, impacting daily life due to intrusive thoughts and low mood. Yearns for stability and relief from emotional turmoil. Requires personalized medication management for symptom control. Aspires to emotional balance, enhanced daily life, renewed motivation. Seeks effective meds with minimal side effects for better quality of life and emotional well-being. Aims to regain control, build relationships, find purpose.
![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
Olathe, KS 66062
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 Laura Tieszen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca82bce2-be37-4853-a7e4-b974bfc2a0db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Tieszen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2023. She has a BS in Biology from Northwestern University, a BSN from Bellarmine University, and an MSN from Walden University - APRN, PMHNP track. Laura provides a combination of genuine warmth and caring with excellent clinical knowledge to give patients the best possible care. Each person has their own unique story, and Laura values knowing the person in order to provide individual treatment. Outside of work, Laura enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and dog, Ted.
Laura Tieszen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2023. She has a BS in Biology from Northwestern University, a BSN from Bellarmine University, and an MSN from Walden University - APRN, PMHNP track. Laura provides a combination of genuine warmth and caring with excellent clinical knowledge to give patients the best possible care. Each person has their own unique story, and Laura values knowing the person in order to provide individual treatment. Outside of work, Laura enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and dog, Ted.
![Photo of Yamila Williams - Stock Health for Mental Balance, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c46a84d-d300-4d74-892b-6213e114789e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stock Health for Mental Balance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olathe, KS 66051
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice who has been delivering comprehensive healthcare services since 2002. With a commitment to excellence, specializing in evidence-based practice methods with down to earth personality. My diverse experience spans various settings, including primary care, community health at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC), correctional health, and hospitals. I firmly believe in a Maslow approach to healthcare, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice who has been delivering comprehensive healthcare services since 2002. With a commitment to excellence, specializing in evidence-based practice methods with down to earth personality. My diverse experience spans various settings, including primary care, community health at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC), correctional health, and hospitals. I firmly believe in a Maslow approach to healthcare, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Maria Davila, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e46c8b-19a5-439c-8d4f-17f4619b78ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Davila was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She has been the Awakenings Medical Director since January, 2022. She completed her medical school training in Buenos Aires before moving to Kansas City where she completed her psychiatric residency training at UMKC. She has been practicing in the community since 1998 and has served in many positions in local universities and hospitals. She is a bilingual (Spanish) physician that has a passion for serving those in her community and helping with their needs.
Dr. Davila was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She has been the Awakenings Medical Director since January, 2022. She completed her medical school training in Buenos Aires before moving to Kansas City where she completed her psychiatric residency training at UMKC. She has been practicing in the community since 1998 and has served in many positions in local universities and hospitals. She is a bilingual (Spanish) physician that has a passion for serving those in her community and helping with their needs.
![Photo of Anna K McMullen, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/129ecd86-eb47-4a04-bb57-d6f148d9f9d6/1/320x400.png)
Anna K McMullen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66062 (Online Only)
I aim to provide a positive and holistic approach to medication management. I think it is important to find balance in your life and it starts with improving self-esteem and good self care. I use a person centered approach meaning you are in charge, we go at your speed and things should always be within your comfort level. Ultimately, I want to hear your story in whatever way you want to tell it. I believe in a trust based relationship with mutual understanding and shared decision making. My goal is work with you on being the best version of you and being there to support you in your mental health journey.
I aim to provide a positive and holistic approach to medication management. I think it is important to find balance in your life and it starts with improving self-esteem and good self care. I use a person centered approach meaning you are in charge, we go at your speed and things should always be within your comfort level. Ultimately, I want to hear your story in whatever way you want to tell it. I believe in a trust based relationship with mutual understanding and shared decision making. My goal is work with you on being the best version of you and being there to support you in your mental health journey.
See more therapy options for Olathe
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Olathe, KS
10+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Olathe, KS who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
94% | ADHD |
89% | Depression |
89% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
69% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Olathe, KS see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Olathe?
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.