Psychiatrists in Kalamazoo County, MI
![Photo of Brittany Radler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d55cca6-3549-4944-b7bf-20c8b4fa87ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Radler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2019. She completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at University of Michigan-Flint and went on to complete a fellowship working with underserved populations. Brittany possesses strong clinical skills and a natural ease at building rapport with patients and families. She has had the privilege of working in many different settings, including free clinics, the office setting, and hospital setting. We all go through unique challenges in life. Brittany is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey.
Brittany Radler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2019. She completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at University of Michigan-Flint and went on to complete a fellowship working with underserved populations. Brittany possesses strong clinical skills and a natural ease at building rapport with patients and families. She has had the privilege of working in many different settings, including free clinics, the office setting, and hospital setting. We all go through unique challenges in life. Brittany is confident that she would be able to support you on your 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 Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/339f8975-8331-4429-8afc-8648f452d4ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dad6e98-7474-47c5-8fbf-edee274faf50/1/320x400.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 Tina Myers, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43513918-4a8f-433a-8566-f38a6b9b5e1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling to find someone who is understanding and easy to talk too? My passion is helping individuals of all ages in the treatment of their mental health. Working towards recovery and stability in a variety of mental health and substance disorders including depression, addiction, mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, and others. My career in the healthcare field started in 1991 since then I have worked in different areas. In 2012 I found my passion and forever home is in psychiatry.
Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling to find someone who is understanding and easy to talk too? My passion is helping individuals of all ages in the treatment of their mental health. Working towards recovery and stability in a variety of mental health and substance disorders including depression, addiction, mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, and others. My career in the healthcare field started in 1991 since then I have worked in different areas. In 2012 I found my passion and forever home is in psychiatry.
![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.
![Photo of Mauli Verma - Synergy NeuroPsychiatry PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88512397-84de-4261-8a32-11cad120e9ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Every patient with mental health issues is unique. Dr. Verma has expertise in treating various issues like Anxiety, depression, Bipolar d/o, ADHD, PTSD, Psychotic d/o, Behavior issues to name a few. She has special interest in treating OCD. Most importantly, there is a promise to continuity of care and seeing Dr. Verma, a board certified Psychiatrist, at every single visit. At Synergy NeuroPsychiatry, our approach is an integrated one, tailoring to patient’s individual needs and treating them as a whole individual. We coordinate care with Primary Care Physician, Neurology, and therapists.
Every patient with mental health issues is unique. Dr. Verma has expertise in treating various issues like Anxiety, depression, Bipolar d/o, ADHD, PTSD, Psychotic d/o, Behavior issues to name a few. She has special interest in treating OCD. Most importantly, there is a promise to continuity of care and seeing Dr. Verma, a board certified Psychiatrist, at every single visit. At Synergy NeuroPsychiatry, our approach is an integrated one, tailoring to patient’s individual needs and treating them as a whole individual. We coordinate care with Primary Care Physician, Neurology, and therapists.
![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 Monday Ogbeibor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e3dc2ea-3863-423c-97cb-3e156f03c23e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Monday Ogbeibor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007 (Online Only)
Monday Ogbeibor is a board -certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he obtains his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Western Michigan University, went to Wayne State University College of Nursing Detroit, Michigan, he graduated in 2020 with a psychiatric nurse practitioner degree. He has been practicing since 2021 providing psychiatric care across the lifespan.
Monday Ogbeibor is a board -certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he obtains his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Western Michigan University, went to Wayne State University College of Nursing Detroit, Michigan, he graduated in 2020 with a psychiatric nurse practitioner degree. He has been practicing since 2021 providing psychiatric care across the lifespan.
![Photo of Matthew J. Radler, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f59275ce-6448-4948-830f-819d3912e383/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Matthew J. Radler is a Psychiatrist is Michigan who has been practicing since 2016. He obtained his Bachelor's of Science in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan, went to Ross University School of Medicine, and completed his residency in General Adult Psychiatry at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Radler has practiced in both office and hospital-based settings. He has experience with depressive, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia/schizoaffective, and ADHD conditions.
Dr. Matthew J. Radler is a Psychiatrist is Michigan who has been practicing since 2016. He obtained his Bachelor's of Science in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan, went to Ross University School of Medicine, and completed his residency in General Adult Psychiatry at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Radler has practiced in both office and hospital-based settings. He has experience with depressive, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia/schizoaffective, and ADHD conditions.
![Photo of Ruqiya Shama Tareen - Kalamazoo TMS & Behavior Health, MD, MBBS, DDSc, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab43d669-8140-4609-aef8-d96f0400a65c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kalamazoo TMS & Behavior Health
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS, DDSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
Dr. Tareen is double Board-Certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. She is renowned for providing compassionate & comprehensive care for patients suffering from complex psychiatric issues. Dr. Tareen's areas of interest includes women's behavioral health, psychosomatics & psychodermatology. She is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at WMU Homer Stryker School of Medicine. Dr. Tareen also serves as President and Board Member of the Kalamazoo County Medical Society, which serves to promote the betterment of public health. Her research has been published in prestigious journals & presented nationally & internationally.
Dr. Tareen is double Board-Certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. She is renowned for providing compassionate & comprehensive care for patients suffering from complex psychiatric issues. Dr. Tareen's areas of interest includes women's behavioral health, psychosomatics & psychodermatology. She is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at WMU Homer Stryker School of Medicine. Dr. Tareen also serves as President and Board Member of the Kalamazoo County Medical Society, which serves to promote the betterment of public health. Her research has been published in prestigious journals & presented nationally & internationally.
15 Second Videos
Ronil Shah
Anne Phan-Huy
Anjuli Shah
Carter Doyle
Heather Sutherlin
William S Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan’s most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive more than 600,000 points of service from New Oakland every year . . . from the Detroit area to Ann Arbor, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Port Huron. To speak with a New Oakland team member about your needs and interests in our programs, call: (800) 395-3223 . . . any time of the day or night. Someone will be standing by to take your call and help you get started, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan’s most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive more than 600,000 points of service from New Oakland every year . . . from the Detroit area to Ann Arbor, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Port Huron. To speak with a New Oakland team member about your needs and interests in our programs, call: (800) 395-3223 . . . any time of the day or night. Someone will be standing by to take your call and help you get started, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
![Photo of Rochelle Edwards, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/041695b4-5d0f-450b-ba59-f576b3681c8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rochelle Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-BC, I have had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have treated a variety of mental health and substance disorders including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, and Psychosis. My Nursing career started in the mental health field in 2008. I graduated in 2018 with my PMHNP-BC from Walden University.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-BC, I have had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have treated a variety of mental health and substance disorders including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, and Psychosis. My Nursing career started in the mental health field in 2008. I graduated in 2018 with my PMHNP-BC from Walden University.
![Photo of Carter Doyle, MSN, PMHNP, CCISM, EMT-P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89af12fa-4ec7-46a9-b35a-71d22bedcebc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carter Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CCISM, EMT-P
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I believe in caring for the whole person. I do this through an Internal Family Systems therapy lens, assessing, diagnosing, and caring for mental health concerns. Sometimes this means prescribing medication, and other times it means working together in psychotherapy to find the roots of pain.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I believe in caring for the whole person. I do this through an Internal Family Systems therapy lens, assessing, diagnosing, and caring for mental health concerns. Sometimes this means prescribing medication, and other times it means working together in psychotherapy to find the roots of pain.
![Photo of Marjaneh Rouhani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca8a91d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you're challenged by ... *Depression *Anxiety *Phobias *Grief Recovery *Anger Management *Stress Management *Bipolar Disorder *Obsessive Compulsive Disorder *Seasonal Affective Disorder *Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder *Fibromyalgia *Post Traumatic Stress Disorder *Psychiatric Aspects of Cancer...I Can Help You
If you're challenged by ... *Depression *Anxiety *Phobias *Grief Recovery *Anger Management *Stress Management *Bipolar Disorder *Obsessive Compulsive Disorder *Seasonal Affective Disorder *Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder *Fibromyalgia *Post Traumatic Stress Disorder *Psychiatric Aspects of Cancer...I Can Help You
![Photo of Michelle Kachman - Psychiatric and Psychological Specialties, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2f564db-434e-4e58-b842-39cc17d725d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatric and Psychological Specialties
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49001 (Online Only)
Dr. Kachman is a Michigan trained physician with deep roots in southwest Michigan. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in 2002 from Michigan State University Honors College, and her Doctor of Medicine degree in 2008 from the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit. She completed her residency in psychiatry in 2012 at Michigan State University’s Kalamazoo Center for Medical Studies. Dr. Kachman, who has been board certified in psychiatry since 2013. She has over 10 years of experience working with patients.
Dr. Kachman is a Michigan trained physician with deep roots in southwest Michigan. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in 2002 from Michigan State University Honors College, and her Doctor of Medicine degree in 2008 from the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit. She completed her residency in psychiatry in 2012 at Michigan State University’s Kalamazoo Center for Medical Studies. Dr. Kachman, who has been board certified in psychiatry since 2013. She has over 10 years of experience working with patients.
![Photo of Kristie Ramirez - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6756270-b531-45b7-8f3d-da25bd2847b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49004
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 a very helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and we collaborate with our counseling specialists to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited and we can't work with patients in counseling with other providers. The specialties listed are for our all of our clinicians.
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 a very helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and we collaborate with our counseling specialists to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited and we can't work with patients in counseling with other providers. The specialties listed are for our all of our clinicians.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/481a0532-9364-4470-aa82-03ba1bb58865/1/320x400.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 (517) 507-3108 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 (517) 507-3108 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
![Photo of Kelly Culmore, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a2d3833-661f-4af2-9000-4d5a96736cf0/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound commitment to improving the mental health and well-being of my patients. With a strong background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric care, I bring a holistic approach to diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health disorders across the lifespan. I offer evidence-based interventions, medication management, and psychotherapeutic support tailored to each individual's needs.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound commitment to improving the mental health and well-being of my patients. With a strong background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric care, I bring a holistic approach to diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health disorders across the lifespan. I offer evidence-based interventions, medication management, and psychotherapeutic support tailored to each individual's needs.
![Photo of Heather Sutherlin, FNP-BC, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68d2bf0b-7b01-4b64-ab29-93fa17ef5b26/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
See more therapy options for Kalamazoo County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kalamazoo County, MI
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Kalamazoo County, MI who prioritize treating:
95% | Medication Management |
90% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Kalamazoo County, MI see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kalamazoo 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.