Psychiatrists in Saginaw, MI
![Photo of Anne Tadeo - State Street Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a578269-4c5d-44ab-8503-3f59a41b19dd/3/320x400.jpeg)
State Street Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD
Verified Verified
Saginaw, MI 48603 (Online Only)
Anne Tadeo, MD, is board-certified psychiatrist. "I earned my medical degree from University of Santo Tomas and completed my residency at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit. My philosophy is simple, patient-centered treatment approach . It is important that my patient's concerns be the focus of every visit and decision making is based on informed consent . This means that it is a collaboration. Patient's rights go with patient responsibilities. And the patient's family and support system are encouraged to be involved. Patient's voice being heard means patient's needs are being understood . Expected outcome are needs being
Anne Tadeo, MD, is board-certified psychiatrist. "I earned my medical degree from University of Santo Tomas and completed my residency at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit. My philosophy is simple, patient-centered treatment approach . It is important that my patient's concerns be the focus of every visit and decision making is based on informed consent . This means that it is a collaboration. Patient's rights go with patient responsibilities. And the patient's family and support system are encouraged to be involved. Patient's voice being heard means patient's needs are being understood . Expected outcome are needs being
![Photo of Ebony Blackmon Humphrey, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-, BC, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/000e1caf-418b-4c35-ba2e-7470a6e38c8f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ebony Blackmon Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-, BC, CCM
Verified Verified
Saginaw, MI 48603
What is the quickest way to be seen? Click on the "My Website" tab and complete the "Pre-Screen" form. Once received our office will verify your insurance and send you a link to Luminello (Check Your Spam/Junk Folder). Once accepted, you can complete the new patient forms. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passionate about caring for those with trauma narratives, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse and neglect, and addiction. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings with Acute Adults, Geriatric, Adolescent and Youth, Outpatient Substance Use, and Perinatal Mood Populations.
What is the quickest way to be seen? Click on the "My Website" tab and complete the "Pre-Screen" form. Once received our office will verify your insurance and send you a link to Luminello (Check Your Spam/Junk Folder). Once accepted, you can complete the new patient forms. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passionate about caring for those with trauma narratives, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse and neglect, and addiction. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings with Acute Adults, Geriatric, Adolescent and Youth, Outpatient Substance Use, and Perinatal Mood Populations.
![Photo of Taylor M Crossley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2593b62-e6ee-4383-aadb-637b34b3b9ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Conducting life coaching services to patients including cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy, marital counseling, couples therapy, family therapy and therapy using alternative medicine such as therapy including art, music, yoga, and equine to those victim to trauma.
Conducting life coaching services to patients including cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy, marital counseling, couples therapy, family therapy and therapy using alternative medicine such as therapy including art, music, yoga, and equine to those victim to trauma.
![Photo of Brooke Barnhill - Paradigm Behavioral Health, LLC, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ed3a2c5-0dd9-4154-93c7-9e1510cde913/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paradigm Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saginaw, MI 48602 (Online Only)
I take a holistic approach to psychiatric care. A complete assessment is done at every initial visit which includes a diagnostic interview and medication management if the person chooses. I provide information and the person chooses how they want to move forward. New patients: Text or email your full name, DOB, phone number, and email address and type of insurance to our office number. You will receive a questionnaire via email to make sure we can provide the care you need. We do have openings for virtual psychiatric appts and therapy. -Most of our appointments are virtual so electronic correspondence is required.
I take a holistic approach to psychiatric care. A complete assessment is done at every initial visit which includes a diagnostic interview and medication management if the person chooses. I provide information and the person chooses how they want to move forward. New patients: Text or email your full name, DOB, phone number, and email address and type of insurance to our office number. You will receive a questionnaire via email to make sure we can provide the care you need. We do have openings for virtual psychiatric appts and therapy. -Most of our appointments are virtual so electronic correspondence is required.
![Photo of Gerome Hess, PMHNP, BC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87c1a7a1-2fa2-470b-b0eb-cf9bd915d74a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am looking to provide care in a caring, Christian atmosphere for patients who sincerely desire to optimize their functioning status in life through the utilization of psychiatric medication services combined with psychotherapy services. I work with the patient and their family/friends to provide education regarding current psychiatric diagnoses and symptomology, available psychiatric medications to address current symptoms, and the various therapy options at Renewal Christian Counseling Center in order to partner with the patient in developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
I am looking to provide care in a caring, Christian atmosphere for patients who sincerely desire to optimize their functioning status in life through the utilization of psychiatric medication services combined with psychotherapy services. I work with the patient and their family/friends to provide education regarding current psychiatric diagnoses and symptomology, available psychiatric medications to address current symptoms, and the various therapy options at Renewal Christian Counseling Center in order to partner with the patient in developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Alyssa Bottrell - Bloom Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a18126db-ba0c-43ea-a338-b8ddfdcae695/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bloom Psychiatry provides high-quality, individualized psychiatric treatment to adolescents and adults using a holistic treatment approach. New patients in the state of Michigan are now being accepted for telehealth, hybrid, or in-person appointments. Services include psychotherapy and/or medication management, as indicated by individual need.
Bloom Psychiatry provides high-quality, individualized psychiatric treatment to adolescents and adults using a holistic treatment approach. New patients in the state of Michigan are now being accepted for telehealth, hybrid, or in-person appointments. Services include psychotherapy and/or medication management, as indicated by individual need.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfc79b99-84f8-4452-bb7d-cdd18a1fcc79/1/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (248) 422-0035 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (248) 422-0035 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
![Photo of Michael White Jr., PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a86b610-44c4-4804-9466-e6a6fde6d330/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael White Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48226
In 2023, I successfully completed my Master of Nursing (MSN) degree and obtained board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My approach to patient care is centered around holistic treatment and a collaborative team approach.
In 2023, I successfully completed my Master of Nursing (MSN) degree and obtained board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My approach to patient care is centered around holistic treatment and a collaborative team approach.
![Photo of Kirsti Ramirez - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88d8f9ef-a44e-4fd6-bed9-f917a7c04e5f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We will work with you to find the right medication(s) to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling or other services may also be needed and we will find the right specialist on our team for you. Our time is limited and we can't see patients in counseling with other providers.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We will work with you to find the right medication(s) to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling or other services may also be needed and we will find the right specialist on our team for you. Our time is limited and we can't see patients in counseling with other providers.
![Photo of Elizabeth Macshadiya, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc0aab2c-413a-4e4b-a5a0-ce3924a30f49/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Macshadiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Bloomfield, MI 48304
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, NM, and WA.
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, NM, and WA.
![Photo of Bruce L Roth, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ddac046-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Roth has over 25 years of experience as a board certified adult and child psychiatrist. He is also an adult psychoanalyst affiliated with the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute and a Qualified Medical Evaluator in psychiatry for injured workers in the State of California. At CPS we have psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurse practitioner professionals providing the highest quality of mental health care to our clients. At CPS we offer a range of treatment from symptom focused counseling and medications to deeper psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis.
Dr. Roth has over 25 years of experience as a board certified adult and child psychiatrist. He is also an adult psychoanalyst affiliated with the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute and a Qualified Medical Evaluator in psychiatry for injured workers in the State of California. At CPS we have psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurse practitioner professionals providing the highest quality of mental health care to our clients. At CPS we offer a range of treatment from symptom focused counseling and medications to deeper psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis.
![Photo of Michael D Colman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bb1f301-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, child/adolescent psychiatrist, and psychoanalyst, my viewpoint is that emotional disturbances have as their basis the way a person thinks and feels. In treatment situations, I attempt to elaborate and elucidate the way a person thinks in order to help that person see the connections between their thinking and behavior, and what troubles that person. The symptoms which a person presents with help to lead us in the direction of discovering what the underlying problem is. It is a truism that one needs to know a problem is present in order to be able to do something about it.
As a psychiatrist, child/adolescent psychiatrist, and psychoanalyst, my viewpoint is that emotional disturbances have as their basis the way a person thinks and feels. In treatment situations, I attempt to elaborate and elucidate the way a person thinks in order to help that person see the connections between their thinking and behavior, and what troubles that person. The symptoms which a person presents with help to lead us in the direction of discovering what the underlying problem is. It is a truism that one needs to know a problem is present in order to be able to do something about it.
![Photo of Priscilla Ann Everett, MSN, APRN, PMNHPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccf461d8-46cb-4125-a5d8-9ccaffde3a89/1/320x400.jpeg)
Priscilla Ann Everett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMNHPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
Why choose her or us? Because her expertise is combined with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Priscilla is a 2 way collaboration. She works with patients in terms of prescribing psychiatric medications, understanding that every person & situation are unique & that while she may understand the science behind the medications, each person’s response may differ. Her experience with patients living with many disorders such as PTSD/C-PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Impulse control issues & Addiction.
Why choose her or us? Because her expertise is combined with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Priscilla is a 2 way collaboration. She works with patients in terms of prescribing psychiatric medications, understanding that every person & situation are unique & that while she may understand the science behind the medications, each person’s response may differ. Her experience with patients living with many disorders such as PTSD/C-PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Impulse control issues & Addiction.
![Photo of Jude Osagie Ukpebor, BSN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b218ce7-2eae-4b80-a74b-e69c991ad5cc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jude Osagie Ukpebor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48034
I appreciate your proactive step of prioritizing your well-being; recognizing the importance of self-care and self-love; which is indeed the first stride toward healing. As a certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am open-minded, warm and approach care with a holistic perspective. The patient will benefit from quality health care.
I appreciate your proactive step of prioritizing your well-being; recognizing the importance of self-care and self-love; which is indeed the first stride toward healing. As a certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am open-minded, warm and approach care with a holistic perspective. The patient will benefit from quality health care.
![Photo of Jane Weingartz, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/547426a5-76bf-4da9-8d65-c3900082196b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jane Weingartz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Imlay City, MI 48444 (Online Only)
Greetings to you, Michigan friends! I offer focused and compassionate mental health service from the comfort and privacy of your home. I have nearly 30 years of collective nursing and advanced practice experience. Certified as both a Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an added bonus cardiology background for my cardiac patients - we can make sure your medications play nicely together and work on the anxiety and depression that often go hand-in-hand with cardiac issues.
Greetings to you, Michigan friends! I offer focused and compassionate mental health service from the comfort and privacy of your home. I have nearly 30 years of collective nursing and advanced practice experience. Certified as both a Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an added bonus cardiology background for my cardiac patients - we can make sure your medications play nicely together and work on the anxiety and depression that often go hand-in-hand with cardiac issues.
![Photo of Kristine Tomlinson-Miles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/531d0b1b-c37f-4eb3-94b4-22c13d03e081/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristine Tomlinson-Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
The challenges of life are often unexpected and taking steps toward wellness can be difficult. Wherever you are in your journey, Kristine can assist you in achieving a balanced life with psychiatric care that is empathetic and person-centered. With a holistic approach to mental health, her treatment plans combine prescription medications, brief psychotherapy, and integrative wellness practices. Kristine is a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Board Certified, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with 10+ years of clinical experience working in East Lansing and Grand Rapids, MI
The challenges of life are often unexpected and taking steps toward wellness can be difficult. Wherever you are in your journey, Kristine can assist you in achieving a balanced life with psychiatric care that is empathetic and person-centered. With a holistic approach to mental health, her treatment plans combine prescription medications, brief psychotherapy, and integrative wellness practices. Kristine is a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Board Certified, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with 10+ years of clinical experience working in East Lansing and Grand Rapids, MI
![Photo of Eucheria Mbata, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fe18665-82d3-45ee-a219-7505f278084e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eucheria Mbata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48933
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
![Photo of Takako Benn, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fe6015c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program, where I was awarded Outstanding Empathy with Patients and Fellow Residents Award. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Certification. I specialize in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, traumatic disorders, and psychotic disorders with an individualized and integrative approach of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. I completed Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Fellowship at Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute and completed medical school training at Wayne State University School of Medicine.
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program, where I was awarded Outstanding Empathy with Patients and Fellow Residents Award. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Certification. I specialize in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, traumatic disorders, and psychotic disorders with an individualized and integrative approach of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. I completed Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Fellowship at Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute and completed medical school training at Wayne State University School of Medicine.
![Photo of Benjamin Delaney, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e3d9a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Benjamin Delaney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 6 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 6 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD.
![Photo of Bridget Mary Hehir, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25c7d97a-7188-417e-8d85-b563d260b7a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bridget Mary Hehir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic mental health care to people of all ages. With a focus on understanding the unique needs and challenges of each individual, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my patients. I firmly believe in the mind-body connection. Integrating mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle modifications, I help my clients achieve balance and resilience.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic mental health care to people of all ages. With a focus on understanding the unique needs and challenges of each individual, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my patients. I firmly believe in the mind-body connection. Integrating mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle modifications, I help my clients achieve balance and resilience.
See more therapy options for Saginaw
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Saginaw, MI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Saginaw, MI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Dual Diagnosis |
80% | Psychosis |
80% | Suicidal Ideation |
60% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Optum |
60% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Saginaw, MI see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Saginaw?
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.