Psychiatrists in Oakland County, MI
![Photo of Jimmy Metellus - Fulfilled Care Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22b4daba-47a7-4a69-bb31-32ad9588cdcd/3/320x400.png)
At Fulfilled Care Psychiatry, you're in the care of a compassionate psychiatrist who understands the challenges you're facing, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, or life transitions. Dr. Jimmy Metellus, M.D specializes in evidence-based treatments tailored just for you. His purpose is to guide you on a journey toward emotional stability, improved relationships, resilience, self-discovery, and everyday functionality.
At Fulfilled Care Psychiatry, you're in the care of a compassionate psychiatrist who understands the challenges you're facing, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, or life transitions. Dr. Jimmy Metellus, M.D specializes in evidence-based treatments tailored just for you. His purpose is to guide you on a journey toward emotional stability, improved relationships, resilience, self-discovery, and everyday functionality.
![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.
![Photo of Severia Adolphus - A Better Tomorrow Counseling Services, LLC, ND, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b0f5678-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
A Better Tomorrow Counseling Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48075 (Online Only)
I am a Naturopathic Doctor and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with great expertise in Complimentary Alternative Medicine (CAM) to promote healing in children, adolescents and adults with mental illness – including such conditions as ADHD, ODD, Depression, Bipolar, Mood disorders and Schizophrenia.
I am a Naturopathic Doctor and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with great expertise in Complimentary Alternative Medicine (CAM) to promote healing in children, adolescents and adults with mental illness – including such conditions as ADHD, ODD, Depression, Bipolar, Mood disorders and Schizophrenia.
![Photo of Alexis Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93f0052a-5335-4e34-8b2d-9e5656920492/2/320x400.jpeg)
About me: I am NCCPA Board-Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) at Michigan Advanced Psychiatry. I received dual Bachelor of Science degrees from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Wayne State University. I practiced for seven years in pediatric emergency medicine and behavioral health before finding her true calling in mental health.
About me: I am NCCPA Board-Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) at Michigan Advanced Psychiatry. I received dual Bachelor of Science degrees from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Wayne State University. I practiced for seven years in pediatric emergency medicine and behavioral health before finding her true calling in mental health.
![Photo of Mark Silverman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbdcc04-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I evaluate and treat adults, families, couples, adolescents and children of all ages on an out-patient basis in my office. I often provide psychotherapy and medication when and if necessary. Disorders or problems which I frequently treat include intra-psychic conflict, relationship or intra-family conflicts, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, addictions, disorders of childhood, career issues, school issues, personality dysfunction, symptoms of post traumatic or acute stress, and disorders related to medical illness.
I evaluate and treat adults, families, couples, adolescents and children of all ages on an out-patient basis in my office. I often provide psychotherapy and medication when and if necessary. Disorders or problems which I frequently treat include intra-psychic conflict, relationship or intra-family conflicts, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, addictions, disorders of childhood, career issues, school issues, personality dysfunction, symptoms of post traumatic or acute stress, and disorders related to medical illness.
![Photo of Daniela L Hagen, PMHNP, MSN, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d09c501-9021-4c46-870d-5bc11e541f1a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniela L Hagen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of experience in the field. I am currently accepting new patients and have immediate openings. My expertise lies in mental health across the lifespan, specifically in addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD. Committed to eliminating mental health stigma, my primary goal is to guide patients toward remission, emphasizing mental health as an integral part of overall well-being.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of experience in the field. I am currently accepting new patients and have immediate openings. My expertise lies in mental health across the lifespan, specifically in addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD. Committed to eliminating mental health stigma, my primary goal is to guide patients toward remission, emphasizing mental health as an integral part of overall well-being.
![Photo of Natalie L. Poole - Peace of Mind, LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93b69bf7-a3dd-424c-9a38-ff5ce698720e/5/320x400.jpeg)
Peace of Mind, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
I am board certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for wellness and integrative care of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. I utilize a holistic, client centric approach to mental health where compassionate and supportive care are fostered. I am well-versed in working with clients individually and therapeutically treating diverse concerns that include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post traumatic stress disorders and ADHD. Evidence-based techniques are employed in treatment to equip patients with the ability to cope and succeed in daily life and achieve optimal wellness.
I am board certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for wellness and integrative care of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. I utilize a holistic, client centric approach to mental health where compassionate and supportive care are fostered. I am well-versed in working with clients individually and therapeutically treating diverse concerns that include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post traumatic stress disorders and ADHD. Evidence-based techniques are employed in treatment to equip patients with the ability to cope and succeed in daily life and achieve optimal wellness.
![Photo of Renee Harris, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4095e984-8bd2-4d63-b2d0-8d68056446ec/3/320x400.jpeg)
I was born in Michigan and have resided here for most of my life. I attended Wayne State University earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and obtained my medical degree from the Wayne State University School of Medicine. I completed an Adult Psychiatry Residency at Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, OH followed by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship also at the Medical College of Ohio. I especially love working with children, adolescents, and their families. I am also a wife, mother, daughter, and sister.
I was born in Michigan and have resided here for most of my life. I attended Wayne State University earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and obtained my medical degree from the Wayne State University School of Medicine. I completed an Adult Psychiatry Residency at Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, OH followed by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship also at the Medical College of Ohio. I especially love working with children, adolescents, and their families. I am also a wife, mother, daughter, and sister.
![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 Blair Grose - Rubix Health, MD, PMHNP, FNP-C, LCSW, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/777bd26d-53dd-4819-b265-f463703951f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rubix Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, PMHNP, FNP-C, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48034 (Online Only)
Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? We get it. Mental health struggles are no joke, but you don't have to face them alone. At Rubix Health, our team of compassionate psychiatric experts is here to help you find the light. With evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, we'll walk with you on your journey to wellness.
Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? We get it. Mental health struggles are no joke, but you don't have to face them alone. At Rubix Health, our team of compassionate psychiatric experts is here to help you find the light. With evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, we'll walk with you on your journey to wellness.
![Photo of Rebecca Greer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cbeb962-c595-4a58-ad71-3bfabe8a0828/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.
Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.
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Rise Psychiatric Services (Online Mental Health)
Physician Assistant, LPC, PA-C
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 (Online Only)
With over 20 years experience in the field, I have a deep understanding of the needs, struggles and hopes of my patients, as well as that which heals and inspires them. I believe clients benefit most from an engaged partner on their journey, rather than a passive listener. I believe that you are the expert on you, and as a counselor and PA, my goal is to help you find the answers and hope inside of you to heal. I believe that people are individuals and should be treated as such, so I do not employ a cookie cutter approach to treatment. My clients truly value that.
With over 20 years experience in the field, I have a deep understanding of the needs, struggles and hopes of my patients, as well as that which heals and inspires them. I believe clients benefit most from an engaged partner on their journey, rather than a passive listener. I believe that you are the expert on you, and as a counselor and PA, my goal is to help you find the answers and hope inside of you to heal. I believe that people are individuals and should be treated as such, so I do not employ a cookie cutter approach to treatment. My clients truly value that.
James Allen Walla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
I have a great passion for psychiatry and have been practicing nursing for 15 years. I obtained my graduate psychiatric specialty at Wayne State University and am eager to provide compassionate, evidence based psychiatric care.
I have a great passion for psychiatry and have been practicing nursing for 15 years. I obtained my graduate psychiatric specialty at Wayne State University and am eager to provide compassionate, evidence based psychiatric care.
![Photo of Natalie Jones-Brown, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b64f0de-ac11-4152-9711-4d98767dfd3e/1/320x400.png)
Natalie Jones-Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
My practice is deeply rooted in the extensive work I’ve done with typically underserved populations throughout Metro Detroit; people who are HIV positive, LGBTQ+ individuals, victims of sexual assault/trafficking, and those struggling with gender dysphoria. Years of experience, both personally and professionally, have driven me to orient my work around the intersectionalities between mental health and identity. Having worked in both traditional and non-traditional settings, I’m able to adapt my approach and style to unique patients and situations.
My practice is deeply rooted in the extensive work I’ve done with typically underserved populations throughout Metro Detroit; people who are HIV positive, LGBTQ+ individuals, victims of sexual assault/trafficking, and those struggling with gender dysphoria. Years of experience, both personally and professionally, have driven me to orient my work around the intersectionalities between mental health and identity. Having worked in both traditional and non-traditional settings, I’m able to adapt my approach and style to unique patients and situations.
![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 Radu Iliescu - Bloomfield Hills Psychiatry PLLC | Radu Iliescu MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf4fa814-9cbf-4978-b38c-339b72afe5ce/1/320x400.png)
Bloomfield Hills Psychiatry PLLC | Radu Iliescu MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304
Hello and welcome! If you are tired of seeing mental health providers without much progress, you came to the right place. I specialize in providing expert psychiatric consultation for children and adults who have not had success with their previous providers. I take my time getting to know each person & family who come into my office so that we can have a shared understanding of their problems, and develop highly effective solutions that work for them. My patients see quick results without requiring high doses of medication, and they get to do so without insurance companies intruding into their treatment or their privacy.
Hello and welcome! If you are tired of seeing mental health providers without much progress, you came to the right place. I specialize in providing expert psychiatric consultation for children and adults who have not had success with their previous providers. I take my time getting to know each person & family who come into my office so that we can have a shared understanding of their problems, and develop highly effective solutions that work for them. My patients see quick results without requiring high doses of medication, and they get to do so without insurance companies intruding into their treatment or their privacy.
![Photo of Dr. Michelle L Collins - New Oakland Family Centers, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cb8140e-a1ae-48de-889d-04f2e4d9271d/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Oakland Family Centers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Hi, my name is Michelle Collins. I hold a doctoral degree in nursing practice. In addition, I am a dual ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health (PMHNP-BC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) with 18 years of broad advanced practice experience. My training and years of clinical practice has allowed me to cultivate competent and compassionate care for clients across the lifespan. Together, we will work to establish a respectful client-provider relationship free from bias, judgement, and stigma. My goal is ultimately to help each client become or return to the best version of themselves.
Hi, my name is Michelle Collins. I hold a doctoral degree in nursing practice. In addition, I am a dual ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health (PMHNP-BC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) with 18 years of broad advanced practice experience. My training and years of clinical practice has allowed me to cultivate competent and compassionate care for clients across the lifespan. Together, we will work to establish a respectful client-provider relationship free from bias, judgement, and stigma. My goal is ultimately to help each client become or return to the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Chinwe Ohaka - Hope Wellness Center LLC, PMHNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e20e8dec-45c3-4083-9de0-3e904665b4f5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48075 (Online Only)
My ideal client may be experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. They might be navigating difficult life transitions, managing stress, or struggling with relationship issues. Their primary needs include effective symptom management, emotional support, and strategies to enhance daily functioning and overall well-being. Their goals often involve finding relief from distressing symptoms, improving quality of life, and developing resilience to face life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
My ideal client may be experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. They might be navigating difficult life transitions, managing stress, or struggling with relationship issues. Their primary needs include effective symptom management, emotional support, and strategies to enhance daily functioning and overall well-being. Their goals often involve finding relief from distressing symptoms, improving quality of life, and developing resilience to face life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
![Photo of Maninderpal Dhillon, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df00aa7d-4f8e-4d6a-9c43-e1dd940f7390/6/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients for psychiatric evaluations and medication management in regards to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD. More information at drmaninderpaldhillon.com
Accepting new patients for psychiatric evaluations and medication management in regards to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD. More information at drmaninderpaldhillon.com
![Photo of Olivia Colombo, DO, MHA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d8adf17-3911-47c5-acd6-39c8131bdd02/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to creating a welcoming space where individuals feel understood and empowered. I prioritize fostering a collaborative environment where clients actively participate in their treatment plans.
I am dedicated to creating a welcoming space where individuals feel understood and empowered. I prioritize fostering a collaborative environment where clients actively participate in their treatment plans.
See more therapy options for Oakland County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oakland County, MI
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Oakland County, MI who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Medication Management |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
64% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
84% | Aetna |
59% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Oakland County, MI see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oakland 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.