Psychiatrists in Benton County, MN
![Photo of Dr. Urmene Pierre - Good Shepherd Psychiatric Consultant, INC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, AAPRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28d439dc-c47c-4b13-869f-c0f22268fa1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Good Shepherd Psychiatric Consultant, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, AAPRN, BC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, MN 56329
Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to individuals suffering from mental illness. Treatments include diagnostic evaluations, medication management, integrative interventions and genetic testing.
Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to individuals suffering from mental illness. Treatments include diagnostic evaluations, medication management, integrative interventions and genetic testing.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Nikita Boyd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a75ac3c8-2d0d-4704-9f09-45475d29a490/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nikita Boyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55424 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about working with adults and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders. Finding a unique combination of medications that work well with your brain chemistry is what I’m good at. I enjoy using a holistic approach to care where we look at the environmental, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual barriers to achieving a balanced and fulfilled life.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about working with adults and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders. Finding a unique combination of medications that work well with your brain chemistry is what I’m good at. I enjoy using a holistic approach to care where we look at the environmental, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual barriers to achieving a balanced and fulfilled life.
![Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a284a883-64e7-43f1-80f0-e9ab397eaad7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306 (Online Only)
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
![Photo of Kayla Parker, CNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88b1e166-a297-4302-b340-65218ec9a0a5/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! I am double board certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I believe in working with my patients to develop a plan that works for their individual needs. I focus on not only mental health but also the physical health of my patients.
Welcome! I am double board certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I believe in working with my patients to develop a plan that works for their individual needs. I focus on not only mental health but also the physical health of my patients.
![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 Joan Gibson, MS, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df2f1eb-e352-489f-94b1-28f61f6364f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joan Gibson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
We work hard at ensuring people get quality mental health care from their first visit forward and are here to support individuals throughout their journey. We provide care for patients who have a variety of psychiatric conditions. Specializing in ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia and comorbid medical/psychiatric conditions. We treat each person with compassion, we speak kindly to others, listen carefully without judgement, we are empathetic to other people's needs and have a desire to help people. The most rewarding part our job is seeing patients who feel and function better.
We work hard at ensuring people get quality mental health care from their first visit forward and are here to support individuals throughout their journey. We provide care for patients who have a variety of psychiatric conditions. Specializing in ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia and comorbid medical/psychiatric conditions. We treat each person with compassion, we speak kindly to others, listen carefully without judgement, we are empathetic to other people's needs and have a desire to help people. The most rewarding part our job is seeing patients who feel and function better.
![Photo of Lydia Sherman, CNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3826c574-5a00-4fa1-899e-274765d4fb61/3/320x400.png)
Lydia is someone who is genuinely passionate about helping people improve their mental healthcare. You can see that passion in the way she talks with her clients. She doesn’t “push” meds. In fact, she works with clients to have them on the minimum effective dosage for the shortest duration necessary. She also spends as much time as is needed to inform, explain, and collaborate with clients to build an effective strategy for them.
Lydia is someone who is genuinely passionate about helping people improve their mental healthcare. You can see that passion in the way she talks with her clients. She doesn’t “push” meds. In fact, she works with clients to have them on the minimum effective dosage for the shortest duration necessary. She also spends as much time as is needed to inform, explain, and collaborate with clients to build an effective strategy for them.
![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 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.
![Photo of Stacey T Mietus, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/770359e6-342a-43e1-b923-2e227ba1639a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey T Mietus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101 (Online Only)
Tele-health only. Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health med 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. You also have a right to mental wellbeing - the ability to experience and move through all normal human emotions (happiness, anger, sadness, anxiety) with the energy and motivation to do the things you need and want to do.
Tele-health only. Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health med 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. You also have a right to mental wellbeing - the ability to experience and move through all normal human emotions (happiness, anger, sadness, anxiety) with the energy and motivation to do the things you need and want to do.
![Photo of Ellie Rizor, RN, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44c921e1-58b0-4cd7-986d-20da92619716/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please Note: Ellie practices in IA and MM. Ellie is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota. She works primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults with special interests in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression and anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Ellie believes in advocating for her clients' academic success and has an understanding of the impact mental health can have on educational experience
Please Note: Ellie practices in IA and MM. Ellie is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota. She works primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults with special interests in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression and anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Ellie believes in advocating for her clients' academic success and has an understanding of the impact mental health can have on educational experience
![Photo of Leigh A. Hagglund, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/416e89ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leigh A. Hagglund
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayzata, MN 55391
Life is really hard. Plain and simple. It can make you feel depressed, anxious, panicky, exhausted, and sometimes make you wonder if you're crazy. You might have an idea why you're feeling this way or you might be totally confused about it all. Regardless, you're here, reading this right now because you want to understand and you to want feel better. I can't guarantee I have all the answers but I do know I can help. I offer both online and in-person appointments.
Life is really hard. Plain and simple. It can make you feel depressed, anxious, panicky, exhausted, and sometimes make you wonder if you're crazy. You might have an idea why you're feeling this way or you might be totally confused about it all. Regardless, you're here, reading this right now because you want to understand and you to want feel better. I can't guarantee I have all the answers but I do know I can help. I offer both online and in-person appointments.
![Photo of Emily Luitjens, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32e04afa-eb54-4d09-8e0b-4ed8ef2107bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Luitjens is a highly qualified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions, including caring for patients with dementia. She provides compassionate, collaborative and holistic care.
Emily Luitjens is a highly qualified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions, including caring for patients with dementia. She provides compassionate, collaborative and holistic care.
![Photo of Mike Goedken, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35cd5bb8-69dd-4db4-abad-fcb4b4a2c943/1/320x400.png)
Mike Goedken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55121 (Online Only)
Struggling with your mood, feeling overwhelmed or having a difficult time enjoying anything? Tired of not being heard? I have immediate openings. I am determined to provide compassionate, quality, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. I possess strong clinical skills in managing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders including; anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, psychotic disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and post-traumatic stress disorders. I am currently a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Struggling with your mood, feeling overwhelmed or having a difficult time enjoying anything? Tired of not being heard? I have immediate openings. I am determined to provide compassionate, quality, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. I possess strong clinical skills in managing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders including; anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, psychotic disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and post-traumatic stress disorders. I am currently a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
![Photo of Lisa Ann Miles, APNP, CNM, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc10a102-95ba-44aa-928f-e3828446b70d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Ann Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, CNM, RN
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Online Only)
My website is mentalhealthmeds.org. You can self-schedule on the website. If you are considering medications, I can help with this decision. I know how badly mental health symptoms can feel. In 2010, I had a serious depressive episode; it so affected me that I changed my career path. The cause of mental illness is not yet fully understood. It is thought that both biology and stress can contribute to the development of mental illness symptoms. I have been told my greatest strength is my ability to listen and hear what is being said.
My website is mentalhealthmeds.org. You can self-schedule on the website. If you are considering medications, I can help with this decision. I know how badly mental health symptoms can feel. In 2010, I had a serious depressive episode; it so affected me that I changed my career path. The cause of mental illness is not yet fully understood. It is thought that both biology and stress can contribute to the development of mental illness symptoms. I have been told my greatest strength is my ability to listen and hear what is being said.
![Photo of Jennifer Dotseth, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d723603-78fb-448f-a8ec-f6feea7a7d0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Dotseth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lester Prairie, MN 55354 (Online Only)
I strive to form an honest and transparent relationship with my clients. I believe that the provider-client relationship is a partnership; there is no one size fits all treatment plan. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to help guide and support you on your journey to better mental health; whether this involves treatment with medications, supplements for a more natural approach, a combination of the two, or a creative option which we come up with together.
I strive to form an honest and transparent relationship with my clients. I believe that the provider-client relationship is a partnership; there is no one size fits all treatment plan. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to help guide and support you on your journey to better mental health; whether this involves treatment with medications, supplements for a more natural approach, a combination of the two, or a creative option which we come up with together.
![Photo of Jill S Hansen, MN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80f92a95-69fa-4e6b-9a9b-a64ce682eb61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been struggling? Whether you've been dealing with a return of a familiar challenge or you have had symptoms you've never experienced, you would just like to feel better, right? I am glad you are here. Patients find me exceptionally empathic and earnest. And to discussions I bring extensive knowledge of psychiatric illnesses, medications and various other evidence-informed treatments. You will gain clarity and a path to feeling better.
Have you been struggling? Whether you've been dealing with a return of a familiar challenge or you have had symptoms you've never experienced, you would just like to feel better, right? I am glad you are here. Patients find me exceptionally empathic and earnest. And to discussions I bring extensive knowledge of psychiatric illnesses, medications and various other evidence-informed treatments. You will gain clarity and a path to feeling better.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8650f484-590c-4339-91a8-ba6aee21c24d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Emily James, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f221b29e-eae8-452e-b631-10cef43262a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
Hello! I provide individual medication management and psychotherapy services both online and in person in Minneapolis. I work with a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, and ADHD. I see patients aged 14 and older, and have a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults aged 14-25. I am committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and supported in improving their mental health and overall well-being.
Hello! I provide individual medication management and psychotherapy services both online and in person in Minneapolis. I work with a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, and ADHD. I see patients aged 14 and older, and have a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults aged 14-25. I am committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and supported in improving their mental health and overall well-being.
![Photo of Andrietta Wright Barnett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9368b746-7ad5-4f52-b208-077e2e3361bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrietta Wright Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55106
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
See more therapy options for Benton County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Benton County, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Benton County, MN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Benton County, MN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Benton County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.