Psychiatrists in Chaska, MN
![Photo of Derek Davis, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a399c90c-0bcd-4d46-bafd-b735ace878b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical interests are depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, and ADHD. My clinical approach includes providing medication management in an outpatient setting with a focus on the patient as a whole.
My clinical interests are depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar, and ADHD. My clinical approach includes providing medication management in an outpatient setting with a focus on the patient as a whole.
![Photo of Leah Good - Leah Good Psychiatry and Wellness Services , APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffec83c7-94fe-41dd-8a75-8e4cb9b7b1af/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Good Psychiatry and Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Chaska, MN 55318 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you felt as if your past psychiatry providers didn’t have the time for your concerns, or even didn’t really know you or hear you? Working together to find the most appropriate diagnoses and best possible medication or other treatment modalities for you as an individual is my goal. I believe that this can be best accomplished by establishing a mutually respectful and trusting relationship, where you will be treated as an individual, not an illness or a number.
Have you felt as if your past psychiatry providers didn’t have the time for your concerns, or even didn’t really know you or hear you? Working together to find the most appropriate diagnoses and best possible medication or other treatment modalities for you as an individual is my goal. I believe that this can be best accomplished by establishing a mutually respectful and trusting relationship, where you will be treated as an individual, not an illness or a number.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Equilibrium Brain Body Balance - Equilibrium Brain Body Balance, APRN, LICSW, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc2b0dba-9c46-43a7-b51d-e80e087f8008/2/320x400.jpeg)
Equilibrium Brain Body Balance
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Need Balance?! Equilibrium Brain Body Balance is all about helping you find balance in your life. Meeting you where you are in your mental health journey. We offer approaches that allow our patients to engage in traditional therapies or interactive therapies; talk, art therapies, to physical activities and interactive spaces. Available Services; psychiatry, psychotherapy, diagnosis. Equilibrium offers zen zones, meditation areas, physical engagement spaces. Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health services that will help you see a reduction in your mental health symptoms, while aiding to create balance in your life.
Need Balance?! Equilibrium Brain Body Balance is all about helping you find balance in your life. Meeting you where you are in your mental health journey. We offer approaches that allow our patients to engage in traditional therapies or interactive therapies; talk, art therapies, to physical activities and interactive spaces. Available Services; psychiatry, psychotherapy, diagnosis. Equilibrium offers zen zones, meditation areas, physical engagement spaces. Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health services that will help you see a reduction in your mental health symptoms, while aiding to create balance in your life.
![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 Israel Sokeye - Plymouth Psych Group, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/343d45cc-f457-48c6-87b9-fc918d0a8935/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
![Photo of Marquitta Trimnell, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30689366-e33c-4247-946d-913ba1a23e1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marquitta Trimnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379
Living with a mental illness can be challenging. Maybe you have sought out support from loved ones or are engaged in psychotherapy, but continue to struggle with symptoms that impact your daily life. If you are interested in discussing the other interventions we offer here at Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare, from supplements and medications to Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), please reach out and schedule a time for us to connect!
Living with a mental illness can be challenging. Maybe you have sought out support from loved ones or are engaged in psychotherapy, but continue to struggle with symptoms that impact your daily life. If you are interested in discussing the other interventions we offer here at Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare, from supplements and medications to Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), please reach out and schedule a time for us to connect!
![Photo of Laurel Edinburgh, MSN, CPNP, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/435d4dee-b8de-49a0-9cc3-b75fffefcdef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laurel Edinburgh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CPNP, PMHS
Verified Verified
Minnetonka Beach, MN 55361
I treat children, adolescents, and young adults with ADHD, Depression and Anxiety. I have a subspecialty interest in adolescent health and am an expert on how families can foster resiliency for their children and adolescents. I use a collaborative approach in my practice. I enjoy working closely with parents to help them support their child's recovery.
I treat children, adolescents, and young adults with ADHD, Depression and Anxiety. I have a subspecialty interest in adolescent health and am an expert on how families can foster resiliency for their children and adolescents. I use a collaborative approach in my practice. I enjoy working closely with parents to help them support their child's recovery.
![Photo of Kadian Simmonds, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b33d13fe-9331-4882-ac3f-3fe0b2c1a430/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kadian Simmonds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379 (Online Only)
Our mental health is essential in keeping us balanced in our daily lives. I can help you obtain balance in your mental health. My goal is to help you handle your interpretation and response to your daily stressors. I can assist you through psychotherapy or prescriptive medications. During my spare time I enjoy the oceans and rivers. My interpretation of life is like the ocean coming to shore, it is always a different wave symbolic for our opportunity to make a difference daily.
Our mental health is essential in keeping us balanced in our daily lives. I can help you obtain balance in your mental health. My goal is to help you handle your interpretation and response to your daily stressors. I can assist you through psychotherapy or prescriptive medications. During my spare time I enjoy the oceans and rivers. My interpretation of life is like the ocean coming to shore, it is always a different wave symbolic for our opportunity to make a difference daily.
![Photo of Anthony Shabrack, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d6888f0-f734-4839-ad3d-ab29146b7d82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony Shabrack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Anthony Shabrack (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner in Minnesota with over 12 years experience in psychiatric nursing and mental health care. He studied at Walden University where he earned a Master of Science in Nursing and is now a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is Board Certified by the ANCC. Anthony views mental health as the cornerstone of a person’s overall health. He believes that in order for a person to be truly healthy, their mental health must first in a good state.
Anthony Shabrack (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner in Minnesota with over 12 years experience in psychiatric nursing and mental health care. He studied at Walden University where he earned a Master of Science in Nursing and is now a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is Board Certified by the ANCC. Anthony views mental health as the cornerstone of a person’s overall health. He believes that in order for a person to be truly healthy, their mental health must first in a good state.
![Photo of Olukayode O Awosika - Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8440b228-39bd-41ca-bcde-6ee3c734a04e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare provides a comprehensive service for individuals with a variety of psychiatric and psychological problems. The mission of our company is to provide top-notch patient-centered services to individuals with mental health needs in a dignifying and compassionate manner. We are committed to excellence in helping our patients improve the quality of their lives in a timely manner. We welcome new patients and are always happy to accept referrals from various sources. We provide assessments and evaluations of mental illnesses, Crisis management, Medication management, Individual and group psychotherapy (talking through problems).
Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare provides a comprehensive service for individuals with a variety of psychiatric and psychological problems. The mission of our company is to provide top-notch patient-centered services to individuals with mental health needs in a dignifying and compassionate manner. We are committed to excellence in helping our patients improve the quality of their lives in a timely manner. We welcome new patients and are always happy to accept referrals from various sources. We provide assessments and evaluations of mental illnesses, Crisis management, Medication management, Individual and group psychotherapy (talking through problems).
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e314d4b5-4c85-47bd-8024-69994e6c5edf/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 Krista Smith, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b069e3e-ec3c-4b0c-bada-c1a2a65a19b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees in Nursing from The College of St. Scholastica. Krista provides a nonjudgmental approach to patient centered care and tries to avoid the "one size fits all" approach to patient care. Outside of work, Krista really loves to travel and explore new places. Hiking is one of her favorite activities, especially when the weather is nice.
Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees in Nursing from The College of St. Scholastica. Krista provides a nonjudgmental approach to patient centered care and tries to avoid the "one size fits all" approach to patient care. Outside of work, Krista really loves to travel and explore new places. Hiking is one of her favorite activities, especially when the weather is nice.
![Photo of Gerard Balan - Telemental Associates, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75770de3-c707-4c1f-aa1f-3c3cc72a9193/1/320x400.jpeg)
Telemental Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Minnetonka Beach, MN 55361
Are you feeling the weight of a demanding career, the academic demands of school, or the general stresses of everyday life? If you or your loved ones, aged 12 and up, are navigating the challenges of ADHD, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to extend a helping hand. My name is Gerard Balan, a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner who understands you need mental health support that adapts to your lifestyle. With our services, you'll find discrete, effective care without having to step away from your work, school, or personal commitments.
Are you feeling the weight of a demanding career, the academic demands of school, or the general stresses of everyday life? If you or your loved ones, aged 12 and up, are navigating the challenges of ADHD, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to extend a helping hand. My name is Gerard Balan, a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner who understands you need mental health support that adapts to your lifestyle. With our services, you'll find discrete, effective care without having to step away from your work, school, or personal commitments.
![Photo of Kendall Monroe, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c273786-fadb-4839-ac09-4e59c7637928/1/320x400.png)
Kendall Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
www.hylandpsychiatry.com is owned and operated by Kendall Monroe APRN. Please book your first appointment via my website above. I offer telepsychiatry as well as in-person services working with people 15+ up to 65 years of age. Younger than 15 years of age are accepted on a case-by-case basis however, if you have worked with me previously I am happy to continue treatment. I have built my practice to be tech savvy, engaging, and to utilize measurement based care.
www.hylandpsychiatry.com is owned and operated by Kendall Monroe APRN. Please book your first appointment via my website above. I offer telepsychiatry as well as in-person services working with people 15+ up to 65 years of age. Younger than 15 years of age are accepted on a case-by-case basis however, if you have worked with me previously I am happy to continue treatment. I have built my practice to be tech savvy, engaging, and to utilize measurement based care.
![Photo of Dr. Dana Eason, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72ce0514-5877-43d8-83c5-2dedd237922a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dana Eason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Now offering ADHD testing! Facing life’s challenges are difficult enough without struggling to find a provider that will take the time to listen & partner with you in your care. Well, search no more! Dr. Dana believes providing compassion & building a strong rapport are the foundations to creating a trusting partnership. She doesn't believe in "cookie cutter" approaches. Rather, Dr. Dana considers several interventions to help you achieve an optimal quality of life based on your specific needs & stressors: psychotherapy, psychotropic medication & integrative psychiatry (e.g. herbs, supplements, essential oils, plant-based medicine).
Now offering ADHD testing! Facing life’s challenges are difficult enough without struggling to find a provider that will take the time to listen & partner with you in your care. Well, search no more! Dr. Dana believes providing compassion & building a strong rapport are the foundations to creating a trusting partnership. She doesn't believe in "cookie cutter" approaches. Rather, Dr. Dana considers several interventions to help you achieve an optimal quality of life based on your specific needs & stressors: psychotherapy, psychotropic medication & integrative psychiatry (e.g. herbs, supplements, essential oils, plant-based medicine).
![Photo of Joy Kubis, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e32d2da-590a-4fc5-b2df-0d04217f3e33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Kubis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Joy Kubis is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has over 16 years' experience in mental health. She has a Master of Science in Nursing. Joy has experience working with inpatient, county, and civilly committed patients at the Minnesota Security Hospital. Joy completes diagnostic assessments, individual psychotherapy, medication management, and individual treatment plans to fit the individual's unique needs. She specializes in adult psychiatric care, assessing and treating adults 18+ with a variety of mental health conditions.
Joy Kubis is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has over 16 years' experience in mental health. She has a Master of Science in Nursing. Joy has experience working with inpatient, county, and civilly committed patients at the Minnesota Security Hospital. Joy completes diagnostic assessments, individual psychotherapy, medication management, and individual treatment plans to fit the individual's unique needs. She specializes in adult psychiatric care, assessing and treating adults 18+ with a variety of mental health conditions.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ce60c2e-612e-43c8-b805-78447b5af032/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shakopee, MN 55379
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 Nicole Burkette Ikebata, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4da5317d-1389-4717-b8c5-502e45063f69/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Maple Psychiatry, I help children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with self acceptance, worry, irritability, sadness and difficulty in relationships who crave change for themselves. If you are creative and open to trying new things in order to change and grow, we will work great together!
At Maple Psychiatry, I help children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with self acceptance, worry, irritability, sadness and difficulty in relationships who crave change for themselves. If you are creative and open to trying new things in order to change and grow, we will work great together!
![Photo of Joanne Howden-Rich, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87ac812f-1908-4406-b3d4-91dbe70eb7db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joanne Howden-Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379
Hello, I'm Joanne, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. I offer the convenience of both in-office and telehealth appointments, ensuring you can access care in a way that best suits your needs. My approach is holistic, combining medication where necessary with therapy to treat a wide variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and behavioral issues. I am not just a provider but a partner in your mental health journey.
Hello, I'm Joanne, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. I offer the convenience of both in-office and telehealth appointments, ensuring you can access care in a way that best suits your needs. My approach is holistic, combining medication where necessary with therapy to treat a wide variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and behavioral issues. I am not just a provider but a partner in your mental health journey.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84dfce12-8b3a-43f5-bd9c-a8ece1cf4e9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
See more therapy options for Chaska
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Chaska, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Chaska, MN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Domestic Abuse |
50% | Eating Disorders |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Harvard Pilgrim |
How Psychiatrists in Chaska, MN see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Chaska?
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.