Psychiatrists in Barry County, MI
![Photo of Rebecca Triana, PA-C, MSPAS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88301823-b220-4a1b-a15c-4ac3a68a6348/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Triana
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MSPAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory Corners, MI 49060 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a PA in psychiatry currently accepting new clients remotely. I am looking forward to helping you to find peace as you grow towards optimal mental health. I have over 25 years of diverse experience. I am very well versed in all seasons of women's issues including parenting/relationship conflict resolution, anxiety depression, OCD, Post Partum issues, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, PTSD, childhood trauma, adult survivors of childhood incest/rape. I offer a holistic approach with individualized medication management, some light focused therapy to help guide you towards becoming your best version of yourself.
Hello, I am a PA in psychiatry currently accepting new clients remotely. I am looking forward to helping you to find peace as you grow towards optimal mental health. I have over 25 years of diverse experience. I am very well versed in all seasons of women's issues including parenting/relationship conflict resolution, anxiety depression, OCD, Post Partum issues, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, PTSD, childhood trauma, adult survivors of childhood incest/rape. I offer a holistic approach with individualized medication management, some light focused therapy to help guide you towards becoming your best version of yourself.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Andrea Skrocki, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01588897-5ae7-4929-bc6c-246f0ee7af78/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Skrocki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
Hi - my name is Andrea Skrocki and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) newly practicing in Michigan. I have over 10 years of independent practice working in Montana and Colorado. I am thrilled to partner with Grow Therapy to offer my telepsychiatry services throughout Michigan. I strive to deliver high-quality evidence based telepsychiatry that utilizes the most recent advancement in psychiatry.
Hi - my name is Andrea Skrocki and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) newly practicing in Michigan. I have over 10 years of independent practice working in Montana and Colorado. I am thrilled to partner with Grow Therapy to offer my telepsychiatry services throughout Michigan. I strive to deliver high-quality evidence based telepsychiatry that utilizes the most recent advancement in psychiatry.
![Photo of Dr. Puneet Singla - BrainStim TMS & Psychiatric Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c2384ee-7c7b-41b0-b9a1-090af433f275/1/320x400.jpeg)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a Medication-Free treatment for Depression, anxiety, OCD, as well as other neurological and psychiatric illnesses. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, safe, and effective non-drug depression treatment for patients who are not satisfied with the results of standard drug or talk therapy. This novel treatment option provides benefits without the side effects often associated with antidepressant medication. Treatments can be completed in as little as 5 days with our new accelerated program.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a Medication-Free treatment for Depression, anxiety, OCD, as well as other neurological and psychiatric illnesses. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, safe, and effective non-drug depression treatment for patients who are not satisfied with the results of standard drug or talk therapy. This novel treatment option provides benefits without the side effects often associated with antidepressant medication. Treatments can be completed in as little as 5 days with our new accelerated program.
![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
Bay City, MI 48708 (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 Kristi Ramirez - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a40e0938-0d0c-4ba0-927a-f47d865893b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Nicole Jones, 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 specialize in finding the right medication(s) and ongoing collaboration with you to find the right dose to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling may also be needed and we collaborate with our Best Fit Counseling specialists to meet your needs.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Nicole Jones, 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 specialize in finding the right medication(s) and ongoing collaboration with you to find the right dose to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling may also be needed and we collaborate with our Best Fit Counseling specialists to meet your needs.
![Photo of Brian Phillips, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ce87c6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
See openings and book an intake (I usually have openings within a week) at AnnArborPsych.com. I specialize in ADHD, a range of anxiety disorders, mood, and impulsivity. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I think of myself as a passionate nurse, care-giver, and patient advocate first, and a prescriber second. Good mental health care begins with listening to the patient. I have engaged in a considerable amount of additional training and supervision after completing my specialty in psychiatry. For years I have worked along side Dr. Akash Kumar MD and we are both passionate about staying on the cutting edge of psychiatric medicine.
See openings and book an intake (I usually have openings within a week) at AnnArborPsych.com. I specialize in ADHD, a range of anxiety disorders, mood, and impulsivity. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I think of myself as a passionate nurse, care-giver, and patient advocate first, and a prescriber second. Good mental health care begins with listening to the patient. I have engaged in a considerable amount of additional training and supervision after completing my specialty in psychiatry. For years I have worked along side Dr. Akash Kumar MD and we are both passionate about staying on the cutting edge of psychiatric medicine.
![Photo of Hassan Almaat - Advanced Psychiatric Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42ec787c-8461-4d6a-9a92-52c1ff2e18e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Advanced Psychiatric Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (Online Only)
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support.
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support.
![Photo of Rachel Prudhomme, DNP, PHNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/132d0d77-c7e1-4d13-9ff1-3ea4ada93c29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Prudhomme
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHNP-BC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525 (Online Only)
Rachel is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ferris State University in 2014 and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2021. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and expanding access to care. Rachel possesses strong clinical skills as well as a natural ability to build rapport with patients.
Rachel is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ferris State University in 2014 and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2021. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and expanding access to care. Rachel possesses strong clinical skills as well as a natural ability to build rapport with patients.
![Photo of Dorothy Gotlib - Dorothy Gotlib, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dfb2bb3-240b-4a25-8b5c-01f1921de1ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that nurturing a collaborative physician-patient relationship is key to helping patients gain a deeper understanding of their mental health. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where patients can feel comfortable discussing their concerns. My treatment process involves learning about the issues most pressing to my patients. I believe in a tailored and integrated approach that utilizes psychotherapy (including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy), lifestyle modifications, psychiatric medications, and/or supplements.
I believe that nurturing a collaborative physician-patient relationship is key to helping patients gain a deeper understanding of their mental health. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where patients can feel comfortable discussing their concerns. My treatment process involves learning about the issues most pressing to my patients. I believe in a tailored and integrated approach that utilizes psychotherapy (including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy), lifestyle modifications, psychiatric medications, and/or supplements.
![Photo of Michelle Brown, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b4cae84-5b70-44c7-8fdf-3c6ea75c432b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49002 (Online Only)
I became a psychiatric nurse practitioner because I enjoy helping individuals bring out the best version of themselves. I consider the Whole person (holistic) by asking questions and listening empathetically to learn more about you and your goals. I combine prescription medications, brief psychotherapy and evidence-based Complementary and Alternative therapies for the motivated client. Life can be complex and messy. Traumatic life experiences, life stressors, nutrition, body movement, and mindset are some of the things that shape us. We will work as a team to discover what is impacting your growth toward your goals.
I became a psychiatric nurse practitioner because I enjoy helping individuals bring out the best version of themselves. I consider the Whole person (holistic) by asking questions and listening empathetically to learn more about you and your goals. I combine prescription medications, brief psychotherapy and evidence-based Complementary and Alternative therapies for the motivated client. Life can be complex and messy. Traumatic life experiences, life stressors, nutrition, body movement, and mindset are some of the things that shape us. We will work as a team to discover what is impacting your growth toward your goals.
![Photo of Ryan Upson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69d06a58-f6b3-45d5-9e0f-93fa7aa3487c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College in Weston Massachusetts and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Ryan has experience working in the acute psychiatric inpatient setting, partial hospitalization setting, and in the outpatient setting. Ryan is passionate about providing quality mental health services using a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and a commitment to individualized, comprehensive care for all patients, rooted in empathy and cultural sensitivity.
Ryan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College in Weston Massachusetts and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Ryan has experience working in the acute psychiatric inpatient setting, partial hospitalization setting, and in the outpatient setting. Ryan is passionate about providing quality mental health services using a humanistic philosophy of holistic care for both mind and body, and a commitment to individualized, comprehensive care for all patients, rooted in empathy and cultural sensitivity.
![Photo of Eric Dachtler - Michigan Psychiatric & Primary Care Clinic, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6adef7d2-28af-4cb3-bfd6-e8fbe14efe83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michigan Psychiatric & Primary Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
Our mission is to exceed the patient’s expectations. We promote the wellbeing of the individuals and families in the Greater Lansing Area community, and throughout the state by providing accessible, quality mental health & primary care for children, adolescents, adults, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes integrity, optimism, respect and compassion. We are committed to quality mental health & primary care provided in a collaborative effort with patients’ overall health strategies and an array of medical services.
Our mission is to exceed the patient’s expectations. We promote the wellbeing of the individuals and families in the Greater Lansing Area community, and throughout the state by providing accessible, quality mental health & primary care for children, adolescents, adults, and their families, utilizing a service system that emphasizes integrity, optimism, respect and compassion. We are committed to quality mental health & primary care provided in a collaborative effort with patients’ overall health strategies and an array of medical services.
![Photo of Jennifer Wims-Madden, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e01df08-c0de-4207-b0f9-d07b6bee1a8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Wims-Madden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (Online Only)
My practice philosophy centers on treating the whole person through a holistic, compassionate, and understanding approach. I believe in providing individualized, comprehensive care that addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of psychiatric conditions. My dedication to holistic care is demonstrated through integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being into treatment plans. My approach to treatment is rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that individuals feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey.
My practice philosophy centers on treating the whole person through a holistic, compassionate, and understanding approach. I believe in providing individualized, comprehensive care that addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of psychiatric conditions. My dedication to holistic care is demonstrated through integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being into treatment plans. My approach to treatment is rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that individuals feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey.
![Photo of Ronda Shorter, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96591f3a-05e3-4168-97c3-ce9203f5e1c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ronda Shorter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
As I matured, I puzzled over my grandmother's gratitude for waking up in her right mind. With 30 years of experience in nursing, focusing on women's health, school nursing, and finally psychiatry, I now grasp its significance. My preferred client is someone who feels overwhelmed by life's challenges, a mother exhausted by school calls, or a person hesitant about therapy due to cultural taboos. Those who seek to break generational cycles through learning and self-discovery are the individuals I aim to assist.
As I matured, I puzzled over my grandmother's gratitude for waking up in her right mind. With 30 years of experience in nursing, focusing on women's health, school nursing, and finally psychiatry, I now grasp its significance. My preferred client is someone who feels overwhelmed by life's challenges, a mother exhausted by school calls, or a person hesitant about therapy due to cultural taboos. Those who seek to break generational cycles through learning and self-discovery are the individuals I aim to assist.
![Photo of Patrick Gresham, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4077b92e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm board-certified in both General Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have a variety of special interests including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, genetics, evolutionary psychology and issues impacting the LGBT community. I'm enthusiastic about teaching and will always go into detail about the nature of psychiatric illness and the impact of medication. I try to keep a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for all ages.
I'm board-certified in both General Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have a variety of special interests including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, genetics, evolutionary psychology and issues impacting the LGBT community. I'm enthusiastic about teaching and will always go into detail about the nature of psychiatric illness and the impact of medication. I try to keep a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for all ages.
![Photo of Lisa Perna - Revival Recovery Center, MSN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea1ec922-7163-4e77-aac1-2164c0f0fe19/4/320x400.jpeg)
Revival Recovery Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Revival Recovery Center is an outpatient treatment center offering comprehensive medical services to treat substance abuse, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD either in-person or virtually. We treat individuals of all ages using evidence-based medical treatments. We accept many commercial insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid.
Revival Recovery Center is an outpatient treatment center offering comprehensive medical services to treat substance abuse, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD either in-person or virtually. We treat individuals of all ages using evidence-based medical treatments. We accept many commercial insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid.
![Photo of Jeffrey Veldman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df6df878-692a-4602-84e9-b99ffe00c243/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Veldman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. He offers an open and trusting environment, accompanied by a profound respect for each client’s personal beliefs and preferences. His approach is empathetic, goal-oriented and encouraging of the mind, body and spirit connection. He is ready to help and would be honored to be a part of your journey to healing and peace. Outside of work, Jeffrey enjoys flight and aviation, music, guitar, foreign excursions, and the outdoors.
Jeffrey Veldman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. He offers an open and trusting environment, accompanied by a profound respect for each client’s personal beliefs and preferences. His approach is empathetic, goal-oriented and encouraging of the mind, body and spirit connection. He is ready to help and would be honored to be a part of your journey to healing and peace. Outside of work, Jeffrey enjoys flight and aviation, music, guitar, foreign excursions, and the outdoors.
![Photo of James Hogle - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adafb5e2-c5db-4ddb-afd6-3fb0694b6299/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![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 Dr. Anjuli Shah, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a8ce68f-7d97-43a3-bca0-f1b29834373c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
See more therapy options for Barry County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Barry County, MI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Barry County, MI who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Domestic Abuse |
100% | Infertility |
100% | Grief |
Average years in practice
25 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Barry County, MI see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Barry County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.