Psychiatrists in Pleasant Ridge, MI
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Michigan below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Hetal Patel - Helios Psychiatry and Counseling, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/519af48e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Helios Psychiatry and Counseling is a group practice consisting of a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistants, licensed social workers, and licensed professional counselors. We are committed to providing services to clients who suffer from any emotional or mental health issues -- depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessions, addiction, among other issues.
Helios Psychiatry and Counseling is a group practice consisting of a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistants, licensed social workers, and licensed professional counselors. We are committed to providing services to clients who suffer from any emotional or mental health issues -- depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessions, addiction, among other issues.
![Photo of Dr. Natalie Sadik, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf217ee3-6cde-49c2-941a-3d7ab988791b/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits as this will allow me to reach a wide range of potential patients from all over the state of Michigan.
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits as this will allow me to reach a wide range of potential patients from all over the state of Michigan.
![Photo of Eucheria Mbata, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fe18665-82d3-45ee-a219-7505f278084e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eucheria Mbata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98e0c5e3-27ab-47ff-9686-1e0c67a43215/1/320x400.jpeg)
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (248) 216-1901 if you would like to set up an appointment.
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (248) 216-1901 if you would like to set up an appointment.
![Photo of Melanie Barbat, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d988d6-d749-478c-89e8-e61538c85f1a/2/320x400.png)
Melanie Barbat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
My ideal client faces challenges with work-life balance, high stress, and personal fulfillment. They need tailored psychiatric care, medication management, and holistic support to improve their mental health and overall well-being. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, enhancing their quality of life, reducing stress, and finding satisfaction in both personal and professional aspects of life. They seek clarity, resilience, and comprehensive care to thrive in all areas of their lives.
My ideal client faces challenges with work-life balance, high stress, and personal fulfillment. They need tailored psychiatric care, medication management, and holistic support to improve their mental health and overall well-being. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, enhancing their quality of life, reducing stress, and finding satisfaction in both personal and professional aspects of life. They seek clarity, resilience, and comprehensive care to thrive in all areas of their lives.
![Photo of Howard Belkin - Howard and Barbara Belkin, M.D., MD, DDS, JD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c8e2e4b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
WE NOW OFFER APPOINTMENTS THROUGH FACETIME AND TELEHEALTH VIDEO CONFERENCING. Without needing to download an app, you can see the psychiatrist through your iPhone, iPad, Android, or Google phone as well as through your Windows or Apple computer in the comfort of your home, school, or office. Our office specializes in the practice of psychiatry, counseling, and therapy for adults, adolescents, and children. We are conveniently located in Birmingham with on-site parking with convenient office hours. Please contact the office at (248) 644-3605 for information about scheduling an appointment through video conferencing.
WE NOW OFFER APPOINTMENTS THROUGH FACETIME AND TELEHEALTH VIDEO CONFERENCING. Without needing to download an app, you can see the psychiatrist through your iPhone, iPad, Android, or Google phone as well as through your Windows or Apple computer in the comfort of your home, school, or office. Our office specializes in the practice of psychiatry, counseling, and therapy for adults, adolescents, and children. We are conveniently located in Birmingham with on-site parking with convenient office hours. Please contact the office at (248) 644-3605 for information about scheduling an appointment through video conferencing.
![Photo of Michelle Modlinski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/926574b9-87e2-48c7-9663-deabecb1b7d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Modlinski is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. She is passionate about providing compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. As a PMHNP, Michelle's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Michelle completed her Master of Nursing at Wayne State University and her post graduate degree studies at the University of Michigan, Flint.
Michelle Modlinski is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. She is passionate about providing compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. As a PMHNP, Michelle's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Michelle completed her Master of Nursing at Wayne State University and her post graduate degree studies at the University of Michigan, Flint.
![Photo of Tami Trea, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d10fd061-c151-49d5-8faa-69e13cfc54b7/1/320x400.png)
Tami Trea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
Do you suffer from Anxiety, Depression, or ADHD? Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
Do you suffer from Anxiety, Depression, or ADHD? Do you sometimes wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Do you wonder why you are so forgetful, why it's so hard to concentrate, or why you easily get distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you can sometimes be tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep at night or do you wake up multiple times which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to go through these challenges alone! I would like to help.
![Photo of Amanda Tanner, DNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63550a17-46ef-4865-9c21-fa543f9e1fb1/1/320x400.png)
Amanda Tanner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
Medication management is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to overall mental health. Educating patients regarding diet, exercise, and sleep routines is part of every visit. This approach is used to enhance a client's overall well being, not just one component. I take a patient-centered approach to treatment and regularly ask for feedback. Common questions I ask are: How is the treatment going? Are we addressing issues you care about? Do you feel you are making measurable progress?
Medication management is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to overall mental health. Educating patients regarding diet, exercise, and sleep routines is part of every visit. This approach is used to enhance a client's overall well being, not just one component. I take a patient-centered approach to treatment and regularly ask for feedback. Common questions I ask are: How is the treatment going? Are we addressing issues you care about? Do you feel you are making measurable progress?
![Photo of Keisha Malone - Prime Mental Health- Keisha Malone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e094742b-e412-43a9-afd3-5d4a8ded24a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Prime Mental Health- Keisha Malone, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48221 (Online Only)
When you don't feel your best on the inside, it shows on the outside. Mental health affects how we view ourselves and interact with others. You may notice changes in your mood, self-care, sleep, and motivation that worsen over time.
When you don't feel your best on the inside, it shows on the outside. Mental health affects how we view ourselves and interact with others. You may notice changes in your mood, self-care, sleep, and motivation that worsen over time.
![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.
![Photo of Dr. Francisca Amaka Nwoko, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a27b2339-a5f1-4410-853e-63c21c59926b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Francisca Amaka Nwoko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), my expertise extends beyond traditional healthcare. I am profoundly committed to excellence. I firmly believe in the intricate connections between mental health and the multifaceted aspects of an individual's life with a strong desire to help people become stronger and better versions of themselves. My approach optimizes mental health care to improve patient's overall health and mental wellness.
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience as a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), my expertise extends beyond traditional healthcare. I am profoundly committed to excellence. I firmly believe in the intricate connections between mental health and the multifaceted aspects of an individual's life with a strong desire to help people become stronger and better versions of themselves. My approach optimizes mental health care to improve patient's overall health and mental wellness.
![Photo of Amy Fox, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/932492e3-b7a9-401f-9574-a0db314de94a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.
I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Dr. Anita Manns - Anita Manns, DNP, RN, ANP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ba61d01-69c4-4192-a1d9-c86576ef2094/2/320x400.png)
Anita Manns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, ANP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220
Hi, I'm a Child and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner proficient in the art and science of medication management, psychotherapy, and physical assessment. I am passionate about optimizing your mental health needs to improve your overall health and mental wellness. I have 22 years of experience in working with vulnerable patient populations and I am ready to meet your mental health needs with compassion and understanding using an evidence-based approach.
Hi, I'm a Child and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner proficient in the art and science of medication management, psychotherapy, and physical assessment. I am passionate about optimizing your mental health needs to improve your overall health and mental wellness. I have 22 years of experience in working with vulnerable patient populations and I am ready to meet your mental health needs with compassion and understanding using an evidence-based approach.
![Photo of Deirdre Denholm, BA, MSN, PMHNP, --BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6a56429-9c86-440b-944f-65b6bc3f7423/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deirdre Denholm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, MSN, PMHNP, --BC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Do you need someone to listen? Are you struggling with a mental health issue and uncertain where to turn? Are you thinking about therapy or even medication? Do you need guidance regarding your current medication? Are you feeling down, depressed, anxious? I would love to help!
Do you need someone to listen? Are you struggling with a mental health issue and uncertain where to turn? Are you thinking about therapy or even medication? Do you need guidance regarding your current medication? Are you feeling down, depressed, anxious? I would love to help!
![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 Laila Marashi, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df623e43-0fbe-4dd3-a1d5-7998e8230a8a/2/320x400.png)
Laila Marashi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
I specialize in pediatric, adolescent, and adult psychiatry across diverse diagnoses. I work closely with my patients and their families to develop individualized treatment plans specific to their medical and psychiatric needs. My treatment approach is holistic, and patient centered. When appropriate, I believe that medication treatment in mental health is just one piece in the puzzle of achieving optimal wellbeing.
I specialize in pediatric, adolescent, and adult psychiatry across diverse diagnoses. I work closely with my patients and their families to develop individualized treatment plans specific to their medical and psychiatric needs. My treatment approach is holistic, and patient centered. When appropriate, I believe that medication treatment in mental health is just one piece in the puzzle of achieving optimal wellbeing.
![Photo of Greg Waltz, MSN, RN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81ecba89-2a7e-4728-9517-3d6c24e1198c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greg Waltz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
Connecting with each client is a vital part of my practice, knowing each person is valuable, not “just a number“. I find checking in regularly about goals and current satisfaction helps develop a trusting relationship focused on growth. I prioritize working to identify barriers that could hinder progress. Personal mental health, both positive and negative, is multifaceted, which is why I use a holistic approach to treat the whole person, not just symptoms.
Connecting with each client is a vital part of my practice, knowing each person is valuable, not “just a number“. I find checking in regularly about goals and current satisfaction helps develop a trusting relationship focused on growth. I prioritize working to identify barriers that could hinder progress. Personal mental health, both positive and negative, is multifaceted, which is why I use a holistic approach to treat the whole person, not just symptoms.
![Photo of Clark Chen, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8513e998-60b7-4da0-a505-04312f9b35e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients - Hi there! I am dual board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is taking on new patients by video appointments. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, depression, bipolar, oppositional defiant disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
Accepting New Patients - Hi there! I am dual board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is taking on new patients by video appointments. I treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to: anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, trauma, depression, bipolar, oppositional defiant disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
![Photo of Melissa Sue Carafelli, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf3ea96e-dc61-487e-b08b-a214f4fff5e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Sue Carafelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
My 15 years of experience caring for patients across the lifespan and via different practice settings including outpatient psych/mental health, inpatient psych/mental health, acute care hospital, urgent care, and skilled nursing facilities/assisted livings has given me a wealth of knowledge to pull from to help you with the struggles you’re facing. I graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with my bachelor's degree, from South University with my MSN, and graduated with my Post-Master's from Maryville University.
My 15 years of experience caring for patients across the lifespan and via different practice settings including outpatient psych/mental health, inpatient psych/mental health, acute care hospital, urgent care, and skilled nursing facilities/assisted livings has given me a wealth of knowledge to pull from to help you with the struggles you’re facing. I graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with my bachelor's degree, from South University with my MSN, and graduated with my Post-Master's from Maryville University.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Pleasant Ridge, MI
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Psychiatrists in Pleasant Ridge, MI who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Pleasant Ridge, MI see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pleasant Ridge?
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.