Psychiatrists in Taylor, MI
![Photo of Karrin Boylston, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1121722-fb5e-4abd-95d8-d75c6e11dde3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karrin Boylston is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master's degree in Nursing with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Northern Kentucky University, and a Bachelor's of science in Nursing from Western Governs University. Karrin is compassionate and cares about her patients from a holistic standpoint, not just the mental health diagnosis. Karrin loves pets, especially dogs! Outside of work, she loves to travel and experience different cultures. She also enjoys cooking big meals for her family.
Karrin Boylston is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master's degree in Nursing with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Northern Kentucky University, and a Bachelor's of science in Nursing from Western Governs University. Karrin is compassionate and cares about her patients from a holistic standpoint, not just the mental health diagnosis. Karrin loves pets, especially dogs! Outside of work, she loves to travel and experience different cultures. She also enjoys cooking big meals for her family.
![Photo of Alicia Lane, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2c65433-960c-432c-aeb3-70fb9fbb5442/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with experience working-in the psychiatric field working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with experience working-in the psychiatric field working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
![Photo of Lindsay Rose Dunstan, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4a72fa4-0017-483a-a346-cf04261b9a4d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a queer prison/police abolitionist. I enjoy working with folx with neurodivergent conditions and marginalized identities. I treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD, using both narrative and somatic approaches. I love helping others build daily wellness practices, including mindfulness meditation, yoga, creative expression, and self-compassion.
I am a queer prison/police abolitionist. I enjoy working with folx with neurodivergent conditions and marginalized identities. I treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD, using both narrative and somatic approaches. I love helping others build daily wellness practices, including mindfulness meditation, yoga, creative expression, and self-compassion.
![Photo of Zain Choudhry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8a8d834-6eec-44d1-9ce8-4c797d76f1af/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Zain Choudhry. I am currently 32 years old and have started my psychiatric practice here at Lifestance Health located in Taylor, MI. I was born and raised in Michigan in a small town called Grosse Ile. In 2012, I graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor's degree in Brain, Behavior, and Cognitive Sciences. Afterwards, I started medical school at St. George's University and graduated in 2018. I then started my residency back in the state of Michigan at Detroit Wayne County Health Authority. The bulk of my experience is outpatient based and is where my expertise lies.
My name is Zain Choudhry. I am currently 32 years old and have started my psychiatric practice here at Lifestance Health located in Taylor, MI. I was born and raised in Michigan in a small town called Grosse Ile. In 2012, I graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor's degree in Brain, Behavior, and Cognitive Sciences. Afterwards, I started medical school at St. George's University and graduated in 2018. I then started my residency back in the state of Michigan at Detroit Wayne County Health Authority. The bulk of my experience is outpatient based and is where my expertise lies.
![Photo of Latoya T Beard, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8c8e48d-31ef-41ee-a8cd-737c22a0d497/1/320x400.jpeg)
Latoya T Beard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD, I am dedicated to treating each individual holistically, with compassion and understanding at the core of my practice. With years of experience in mental health care, I bring a comprehensive approach that integrates evidence-based treatments with personalized care plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient. My focus goes beyond alleviating symptoms; I am committed to addressing the underlying factors that contribute to mental health challenges, promoting long-term well-being and resilience.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD, I am dedicated to treating each individual holistically, with compassion and understanding at the core of my practice. With years of experience in mental health care, I bring a comprehensive approach that integrates evidence-based treatments with personalized care plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient. My focus goes beyond alleviating symptoms; I am committed to addressing the underlying factors that contribute to mental health challenges, promoting long-term well-being and resilience.
![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
Taylor, MI 48180
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 Andrea Skrocki, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01588897-5ae7-4929-bc6c-246f0ee7af78/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Skrocki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180 (Online Only)
Hi - my name is Andrea Skrocki and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) newly practicing in Michigan. I have over 10 years of independent practice working in Montana and Colorado. I am thrilled to partner with Grow Therapy to offer my telepsychiatry services throughout Michigan. I strive to deliver high-quality evidence based telepsychiatry that utilizes the most recent advancement in psychiatry.
Hi - my name is Andrea Skrocki and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) newly practicing in Michigan. I have over 10 years of independent practice working in Montana and Colorado. I am thrilled to partner with Grow Therapy to offer my telepsychiatry services throughout Michigan. I strive to deliver high-quality evidence based telepsychiatry that utilizes the most recent advancement in psychiatry.
![Photo of Anthony E Opara, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01d96f4e-122d-45b1-b183-3db1106aea15/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and congratulations on the first step of your mental health journey! My name is Anthony Opara, Sr. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with psychiatric clients for sixteen years across my broad nursing career. This experience allows me to help restore the client to their fullest potential by helping to develop a solution that is individualized, thoughtful and non-judgmental. I take the time to help uncover the many factors that contribute to the breakdown of the client’s mental health and together, with the input of the client, develop solutions that are meaningful.
Hello and congratulations on the first step of your mental health journey! My name is Anthony Opara, Sr. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with psychiatric clients for sixteen years across my broad nursing career. This experience allows me to help restore the client to their fullest potential by helping to develop a solution that is individualized, thoughtful and non-judgmental. I take the time to help uncover the many factors that contribute to the breakdown of the client’s mental health and together, with the input of the client, develop solutions that are meaningful.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Angela Goodson, PMHNP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67a9873b-8e5d-4d2e-ba8b-dff2f2937bac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Goodson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has practicing since 2022. She has a Post Masters certification in Psychiatric Mental Health as a Nurse Practitioner. Angela's treatment philosophy is to build a partnership with each and every individual that is focused on developing a treatment plan together that aims to achieve remission of symptoms while improving quality and quantity of life. In her spare time, Angela enjoys running, biking, reading, and traveling.
Angela Goodson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has practicing since 2022. She has a Post Masters certification in Psychiatric Mental Health as a Nurse Practitioner. Angela's treatment philosophy is to build a partnership with each and every individual that is focused on developing a treatment plan together that aims to achieve remission of symptoms while improving quality and quantity of life. In her spare time, Angela enjoys running, biking, reading, and traveling.
![Photo of Haley Wanic, DNP, AGNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5418be3-1938-477d-bbc9-a7db6c065637/1/320x400.jpeg)
I completed two bachelor’s degrees with honors at Grand Valley State University majoring in Biomedical Science and Nursing. I continued my education at Grand Valley State University and graduated with honors with my Doctor of Nursing Practice. I am dedicated to providing the best care possible by staying up to date on the latest evidence-based treatments and actively listening to my patients concerns. I employ a non-judgmental approach to get know my patients so we can create a treatment plan together. Populations I treat include, but are not limited to, teens-end of life, men, women, and LGBTQIA+.
I completed two bachelor’s degrees with honors at Grand Valley State University majoring in Biomedical Science and Nursing. I continued my education at Grand Valley State University and graduated with honors with my Doctor of Nursing Practice. I am dedicated to providing the best care possible by staying up to date on the latest evidence-based treatments and actively listening to my patients concerns. I employ a non-judgmental approach to get know my patients so we can create a treatment plan together. Populations I treat include, but are not limited to, teens-end of life, men, women, and LGBTQIA+.
![Photo of Lindsay Dunstan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85860846-3c7e-4c61-9d14-10793918cfd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay-Rose Dykema is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed her residency training at Columbia University. Lindsay-Rose is a queer psychiatrist and prison/police abolitionist who dabbles in narrative poetry and creative nonfiction. Her work has been published in psychiatric and leftist journals, poetry anthologies, and Slate Magazine. She will always offer a safe and affirming space. In her spare time, Lindsay-Rose enjoys yoga, running, writing, belting showtunes, petting cats.
Lindsay-Rose Dykema is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed her residency training at Columbia University. Lindsay-Rose is a queer psychiatrist and prison/police abolitionist who dabbles in narrative poetry and creative nonfiction. Her work has been published in psychiatric and leftist journals, poetry anthologies, and Slate Magazine. She will always offer a safe and affirming space. In her spare time, Lindsay-Rose enjoys yoga, running, writing, belting showtunes, petting cats.
![Photo of Steven Clevenger, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10457f41-7f79-4a32-b9dc-bd3ed8cbf47d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome, my name is Dr Steven Clevenger. I do not have an "ideal patient" as I have found that every one of my patients is very different. I have extensive experience with many different patient populations from middle class suburban, rural, incarcerated individuals, the unhoused, substance abuse issues, college student and adolescents. The toolbox of solution I have to draw from is broad. Patients I seek to treat are those motivated to change and seeking a path forward.
Hello and welcome, my name is Dr Steven Clevenger. I do not have an "ideal patient" as I have found that every one of my patients is very different. I have extensive experience with many different patient populations from middle class suburban, rural, incarcerated individuals, the unhoused, substance abuse issues, college student and adolescents. The toolbox of solution I have to draw from is broad. Patients I seek to treat are those motivated to change and seeking a path forward.
![Photo of Karen D Joseph - Infinite Wellness Healthcare, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f15f0f4-a889-4212-ba99-0004c6b94afa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Infinite Wellness Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48124 (Online Only)
My ideal patient has done some research about their symptoms and potential treatments prior to the first appointment. It helps to have a realistic attitude about the treatment process.
My ideal patient has done some research about their symptoms and potential treatments prior to the first appointment. It helps to have a realistic attitude about the treatment process.
![Photo of Ammar Ali - The Place of Hope PLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99ca6db3-3354-426c-9aed-dbffe77697e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, My name is Ammar Ali, I am a Medical Doctor and board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience working in hospitals across the United States. I graduated from Kufa University College of Medicine in Iraq in 2003 and finished psychiatry training in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Sanford School of Medicine University of South Dakota in 2014.
Hello, My name is Ammar Ali, I am a Medical Doctor and board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience working in hospitals across the United States. I graduated from Kufa University College of Medicine in Iraq in 2003 and finished psychiatry training in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Sanford School of Medicine University of South Dakota in 2014.
![Photo of Umeika Stephens, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/962f96ea-544a-434a-90d4-c392532cc4ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Umeika Stephens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48228 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Detroit native, she is acutely aware of the mental and physical health care needs in the community and the disparities that impact patients' access to culturally sensitive mental health services. My goal is to listen and help patients set goals and receive treatments that help them to become the versions of themselves. I believe that care occurs as a team effort with the patient as the expert in their lived experience. I offer pharmacogenetic testing for medications and truly strive to create patient centered care atmosphere.
As a Detroit native, she is acutely aware of the mental and physical health care needs in the community and the disparities that impact patients' access to culturally sensitive mental health services. My goal is to listen and help patients set goals and receive treatments that help them to become the versions of themselves. I believe that care occurs as a team effort with the patient as the expert in their lived experience. I offer pharmacogenetic testing for medications and truly strive to create patient centered care atmosphere.
![Photo of Cody Shinavier, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3085a49a-bde7-4824-8e48-3a005b810f45/1/320x400.png)
Cody Shinavier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195
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 Craig Lemmen - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4f692be-eefe-44a6-9b47-bc2c6792f060/2/320x400.jpeg)
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and 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.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and 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.
![Photo of Addiction Treatment At Westlake Consultation Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcdbc906-c3d9-4835-853d-3c3db3d43a8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Addiction Treatment At Westlake Consultation Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen Park, MI 48101
Addiction Treatment Specialist at Westlake enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. We are also advocates for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. We are dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. We are passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.
Addiction Treatment Specialist at Westlake enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. We are also advocates for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. We are dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. We are passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.
![Photo of Mfon Essien, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c42a217-880b-4a5b-83af-1b5b9950d4eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client would be someone who is currently taking on the burden of navigating the complexities of their mental health. Grappling with the struggles of depression, ADHD, bipolar, or even anxiety. Clients who are dealing with these specifics need a warm and comforting sense of well-being, as we work towards fine tuning their inner resilience, this will aid them to find self empowerment; with my personalized guidance, we'll work together as partners unlocking doors to bettered mental health.
My ideal client would be someone who is currently taking on the burden of navigating the complexities of their mental health. Grappling with the struggles of depression, ADHD, bipolar, or even anxiety. Clients who are dealing with these specifics need a warm and comforting sense of well-being, as we work towards fine tuning their inner resilience, this will aid them to find self empowerment; with my personalized guidance, we'll work together as partners unlocking doors to bettered mental health.
![Photo of Curtis Norwick, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94589805-f3c7-42dc-9830-f8b86f2266c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Norwick, born and raised in Michigan, completed his undergraduate education at Michigan State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. He then attended medical school at American University of the Caribbean in St. Maarten. He completed his Psychiatry Residency through St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Livonia, Michigan where he was Chief Resident. Dr. Norwick is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate, and evidence-based care to all of his patients.
Dr. Norwick, born and raised in Michigan, completed his undergraduate education at Michigan State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. He then attended medical school at American University of the Caribbean in St. Maarten. He completed his Psychiatry Residency through St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Livonia, Michigan where he was Chief Resident. Dr. Norwick is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate, and evidence-based care to all of his patients.
See more therapy options for Taylor
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Taylor, MI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Taylor, MI who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
75% | ADHD |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
38% | Psychosis |
38% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
88% | Optum |
75% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Taylor, MI see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Taylor?
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.