Psychiatrists in Baxter, MN
![Photo of Twilla Oskey, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1629f40-ec49-4921-924e-b49887436eb3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Twilla Oskey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baxter, MN 56425
My vision is to see you become the person you were designed to be. We all carry things from the past with us that limit our perspective of ourselves. I love to see individuals broaden their perspective of themselves and shake off the things that hold them back. We do this by thorough history, assessments, diagnosis, and medication management combined with psychotherapy. I provide Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) with amazingly fast resolution from intrusive thoughts, fear, anxiety, and negative emotions that are associated with trauma.
My vision is to see you become the person you were designed to be. We all carry things from the past with us that limit our perspective of ourselves. I love to see individuals broaden their perspective of themselves and shake off the things that hold them back. We do this by thorough history, assessments, diagnosis, and medication management combined with psychotherapy. I provide Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) with amazingly fast resolution from intrusive thoughts, fear, anxiety, and negative emotions that are associated with trauma.
![Photo of Elvis T Starllone, PMHNP, CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5148a60f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elvis T Starllone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baxter, MN 56425
Hello all, whether you are new to mental health or have been searching for the right provider for a while, you are at the right place. It is my honor to meet you and work together to formulate an integrative and holistic plan that will promote wellness and a better outlook. My traits are team work, professionalism, customer service and flexibility. I see persons ages 6 to 80. I am particularly interested in substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, sleep issues and psychotic issues. As a veteran myself, I connect well with veterans, and members of the LGBTQ, refugees and immigrants are all welcomed.
Hello all, whether you are new to mental health or have been searching for the right provider for a while, you are at the right place. It is my honor to meet you and work together to formulate an integrative and holistic plan that will promote wellness and a better outlook. My traits are team work, professionalism, customer service and flexibility. I see persons ages 6 to 80. I am particularly interested in substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, sleep issues and psychotic issues. As a veteran myself, I connect well with veterans, and members of the LGBTQ, refugees and immigrants are all welcomed.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Amanda Larson-Redning - New Chapters Mental Health & Wellness LLC, APRN, CNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b049611d-d1dc-480a-8e19-d2a1749e5ca8/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Chapters Mental Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Brainerd, MN 56401
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Mark L Willenbring, MD, DLFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/563bc621-76bf-487b-9614-2d9339836c4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
You are looking for a psychiatrist who actually listens to you, and responds to your needs. You are looking for clear answers to your questions, delivered in a compassionate way. Naturally, you are also looking for expert psychopharmacology as well as psychotherapy. You can find all of that and more in my office. I have over 50 years practice as a psychiatrist, in many different settings. I can offer you brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology or extended treatment.
You are looking for a psychiatrist who actually listens to you, and responds to your needs. You are looking for clear answers to your questions, delivered in a compassionate way. Naturally, you are also looking for expert psychopharmacology as well as psychotherapy. You can find all of that and more in my office. I have over 50 years practice as a psychiatrist, in many different settings. I can offer you brief psychotherapy, psychopharmacology or extended treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da91f2aa-055d-4be5-aa1b-4d0a8af6fac0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55442
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Suzanne Lee, DNP, PMHCNS, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9d547d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have expertise in addiction, trauma, emotional and physiological pain, and a range of psychiatric illnesses; I particularly appreciate the need to treat clients holistically, taking into account co-morbid issues, when such are present. I believe in a partnership with clients to enhance strengths and address, when possible, harmful behaviors, beliefs and relationships. I diagnose, prescribe and offer therapy for psychiatric and psychological problems for individuals, couples and families.
I have expertise in addiction, trauma, emotional and physiological pain, and a range of psychiatric illnesses; I particularly appreciate the need to treat clients holistically, taking into account co-morbid issues, when such are present. I believe in a partnership with clients to enhance strengths and address, when possible, harmful behaviors, beliefs and relationships. I diagnose, prescribe and offer therapy for psychiatric and psychological problems for individuals, couples and families.
![Photo of Jody Murphy, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/207fd6d8-de06-494a-86c0-93116fa1d1ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jody Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MN 55744 (Online Only)
I have been working in nursing since 2001. My approach is all about person-focused and evidence-based care, with a strong belief in the power of a great therapeutic alliance between us. As an autistic, nonbinary, queer psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring my big heart with a unique and personal touch to my practice.
I have been working in nursing since 2001. My approach is all about person-focused and evidence-based care, with a strong belief in the power of a great therapeutic alliance between us. As an autistic, nonbinary, queer psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring my big heart with a unique and personal touch to my practice.
![Photo of Zako Ibrahim, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02c93880-2dad-4602-b5ed-6a8db407ef4e/2/320x400.png)
I am passionate about providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive psychopharmacology combined with brief therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition, in my approach to medication management services.
I am passionate about providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive psychopharmacology combined with brief therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition, in my approach to medication management services.
![Photo of Hulda Mosiori, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39e0fb3a-fc51-4e15-aa4f-7b4a32780d8c/1/320x400.png)
Hulda Mosiori
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369 (Online Only)
I use a shared decision-making model of client-centered care that enables and encourages people to play a role in the medical decisions that affect their mental health. I utilize an integrative approach with a strong orientation towards cognitive behavioral therapy, emphasizing individualization of evidence-based practices, responding appropriately and effectively to the person at the affective, behavioral, cognitive, and biologic level to determine the best possible treatment.
I use a shared decision-making model of client-centered care that enables and encourages people to play a role in the medical decisions that affect their mental health. I utilize an integrative approach with a strong orientation towards cognitive behavioral therapy, emphasizing individualization of evidence-based practices, responding appropriately and effectively to the person at the affective, behavioral, cognitive, and biologic level to determine the best possible treatment.
![Photo of Mackenzie Snortum - Enlightenment Psychiatry , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/015b210c-19de-4d1b-925e-a2d5df9a9afc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Enlightenment Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Park Rapids, MN 56470
The care you will receive will be about maintaining equilibrium between your physical, mental and spiritual self. Bodies and minds go together. If your mental wellness and physical wellness are not in equal states, your life will feel out of balance. This is where we hope to inspire you to be enlightened.
The care you will receive will be about maintaining equilibrium between your physical, mental and spiritual self. Bodies and minds go together. If your mental wellness and physical wellness are not in equal states, your life will feel out of balance. This is where we hope to inspire you to be enlightened.
![Photo of Roxanne Dobrava, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0218316-9e78-4d8f-9179-5c61073bed91/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roxanne Dobrava
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clear Lake, MN 55319 (Online Only)
Hey you! How is life? Is life sometimes too much to handle? Are you ready to put in the work to build a life that is all that you imagine it to be? I am here to help you. If you have a concern or challenge you are facing, I will do my best to help you work through this. I am available to provide a neutral look into your life and assist with medication management and psychotherapy. I would also be willing to give you evidence-based scientific recommendations on daily lifestyle changes that may help.
Hey you! How is life? Is life sometimes too much to handle? Are you ready to put in the work to build a life that is all that you imagine it to be? I am here to help you. If you have a concern or challenge you are facing, I will do my best to help you work through this. I am available to provide a neutral look into your life and assist with medication management and psychotherapy. I would also be willing to give you evidence-based scientific recommendations on daily lifestyle changes that may help.
![Photo of Gladys A Ndege, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89d8a366-eedd-4e32-b892-339f073f6e76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gladys A Ndege
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Champlin, MN 55316 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients within 48 hours, via Telehealth only, for psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and medication management for mood disorders, trauma, sleep issues, anxiety and other mental health issues. I believe that the development of mental health conditions is a combination of factors relating to genetics, environment and other stressors. Every client presents differently and therefore, I work with each individual uniquely to address the challenges associated with mental health. My approach is Client-Centered Care that enables and encourages clients to take part in their care.
Now accepting new patients within 48 hours, via Telehealth only, for psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and medication management for mood disorders, trauma, sleep issues, anxiety and other mental health issues. I believe that the development of mental health conditions is a combination of factors relating to genetics, environment and other stressors. Every client presents differently and therefore, I work with each individual uniquely to address the challenges associated with mental health. My approach is Client-Centered Care that enables and encourages clients to take part in their care.
![Photo of John E. Harrison, PMHNP, CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f5fb211-6221-4d67-b6c6-b7b80e4225fd/3/320x400.jpeg)
John E. Harrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MN 55446
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•
![Photo of Eli Sedo, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdc6bc83-a23e-41bc-bd48-54cac96957d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach reflects a commitment to providing holistic and personalized care, incorporating therapy, medication, and support groups as needed. Additionally, I emphasize flexibility, adapting to each person’s unique circumstances and needs, while maintaining empathy, patience, and a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Providing culturally sensitive and inclusive care, and recognizing and respecting the unique backgrounds and identities of clients, is a priority for me.
My approach reflects a commitment to providing holistic and personalized care, incorporating therapy, medication, and support groups as needed. Additionally, I emphasize flexibility, adapting to each person’s unique circumstances and needs, while maintaining empathy, patience, and a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Providing culturally sensitive and inclusive care, and recognizing and respecting the unique backgrounds and identities of clients, is a priority for me.
![Photo of Ali R Samikoglu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5924f1d6-0acd-4774-b652-d17a4ba2df56/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ali R. Samikoglu is a boardcertified adult psychiatrist in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2019. He completed Medical School at University of Minnesota and his Psychiatry Residency at HennepinRegions Psychiatry Residency Program. Dr. Samikoglu provides his patients with a thorough evaluation of their condition, a clear explanation of treatment options and the role therapy, medications, lifestyle interventions and other treatment modalities could play in their efforts at recovery.
Dr. Ali R. Samikoglu is a boardcertified adult psychiatrist in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2019. He completed Medical School at University of Minnesota and his Psychiatry Residency at HennepinRegions Psychiatry Residency Program. Dr. Samikoglu provides his patients with a thorough evaluation of their condition, a clear explanation of treatment options and the role therapy, medications, lifestyle interventions and other treatment modalities could play in their efforts at recovery.
![Photo of Karen Webster, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba0c3065-f34d-427d-abdb-d17d687dc7c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hibbing, MN 55746
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. I can help!
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. I can help!
![Photo of Kellie “Kiki” Hanson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5327167-886a-4110-889d-1401ee63ca97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie “Kiki” Hanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369 (Online Only)
I don't really have an "ideal" client. I am in this field to help everyone, not only bigger issues, but what we would perceive as "small" ones as well. I think everyone has something in their life that needs to be tweaked, and I believe with medication, therapy, and coping skill, most people can conquer their problems. It just takes a lot of hard work, and those are the types of patients I love. The ones not afraid to put the work in to become healthy, both mentally and physically.
I don't really have an "ideal" client. I am in this field to help everyone, not only bigger issues, but what we would perceive as "small" ones as well. I think everyone has something in their life that needs to be tweaked, and I believe with medication, therapy, and coping skill, most people can conquer their problems. It just takes a lot of hard work, and those are the types of patients I love. The ones not afraid to put the work in to become healthy, both mentally and physically.
![Photo of Ediomi 'edee' Enebong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03d0d471-a03c-4d90-a35f-c83d5a24a1d7/2/320x400.png)
Ediomi 'edee' Enebong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8efd7a5d-135b-41e0-8cde-81c19cf66e56/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Lindsey Hatcher, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/828b2386-2cd2-4d31-94a2-53344c7aa147/1/320x400.png)
Lindsey Hatcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369
My passion is fueled by a sincere desire to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals navigating mental health challenges. With a unique blend of clinical expertise and genuine empathy, I am dedicated to creating a supportive environment where individuals can find comfort and strength in their mental health journey. I apply a holistic perspective, recognizing that mental well-being is intricately connected to various aspects of one's life. Immediate openings are available both online and in person.
My passion is fueled by a sincere desire to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals navigating mental health challenges. With a unique blend of clinical expertise and genuine empathy, I am dedicated to creating a supportive environment where individuals can find comfort and strength in their mental health journey. I apply a holistic perspective, recognizing that mental well-being is intricately connected to various aspects of one's life. Immediate openings are available both online and in person.
See more therapy options for Baxter
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Baxter, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Baxter, MN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Autism |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Medicaid |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Baxter, MN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Baxter?
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.