Psychiatrists in Hopkins, MN
![Photo of MacKenzie Kampa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97d3e1fa-24d3-4572-a38e-2c944da4fa5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
MacKenzie Kampa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hopkins, MN 55343
You feel nervous, sad, stressed, or have sleep problems. You may want/need medicine & wonder if there are other options, too. You want to work with someone who will actually listen to you. Many individuals I work with are in a perinatal or parenting stage of life. Most are interested in adding natural remedies for mental health and a warmer psychiatric experience. If you are interested in science-backed natural alternatives to medications and want psychiatric care that offers both medicine and natural treatments, I can help. I use evidence-based treatments (both pharmaceuticals and supplements) Learn more at www.reveriemh.com.
You feel nervous, sad, stressed, or have sleep problems. You may want/need medicine & wonder if there are other options, too. You want to work with someone who will actually listen to you. Many individuals I work with are in a perinatal or parenting stage of life. Most are interested in adding natural remedies for mental health and a warmer psychiatric experience. If you are interested in science-backed natural alternatives to medications and want psychiatric care that offers both medicine and natural treatments, I can help. I use evidence-based treatments (both pharmaceuticals and supplements) Learn more at www.reveriemh.com.
![Photo of John Luehr - TMS Center at Sonder Behavioral Health & Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c32c5ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
TMS Center at Sonder Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hopkins, MN 55345
Are you (or is someone you care about) struggling with severe depression that hasn’t improved, no matter what you’ve tried? We’re excited to introduce you to our newest offering at Sonder: TMS. It’s safe. Effective. Drug-free. And covered by most insurance companies. To learn more, visit us at www.sonderwellness.com
Are you (or is someone you care about) struggling with severe depression that hasn’t improved, no matter what you’ve tried? We’re excited to introduce you to our newest offering at Sonder: TMS. It’s safe. Effective. Drug-free. And covered by most insurance companies. To learn more, visit us at www.sonderwellness.com
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of David Brandsrud, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52a7eac7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Brandsrud
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55343
Creating an environment where you feel respected, cared for, and understood is my ultimate goal. I want to learn about your history, what stands in the way of you feeling better, and how we can get there together. I will not simply write a prescription and send you on your way – establishing a trusted, long-term partnership is crucial for success. I believe in judicious use of medication, paying full attention to pros and cons. Together we will create a treatment plan that best meets your needs. I am happy to see children, adults, and everyone in between. We can talk about everything from serotonin to sports to spirituality.
Creating an environment where you feel respected, cared for, and understood is my ultimate goal. I want to learn about your history, what stands in the way of you feeling better, and how we can get there together. I will not simply write a prescription and send you on your way – establishing a trusted, long-term partnership is crucial for success. I believe in judicious use of medication, paying full attention to pros and cons. Together we will create a treatment plan that best meets your needs. I am happy to see children, adults, and everyone in between. We can talk about everything from serotonin to sports to spirituality.
![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 55343
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 Twila B Germanson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/545d48c5-a7e6-451d-9579-e01dd0912b85/2/320x400.jpeg)
As an experienced psychiatrist, I provide a range of services via telemedicine. These include diagnostic assessments, follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive therapy. I utilize electronic-prescriptions, sending them directly to your pharmacy. I graduated and completed residency in 1999 at the University of Minnesota Medical School. What sets my practice apart is the autonomy I enjoy in my private practice. This freedom allows me to allocate the necessary time to each patient, ensuring that I provide the highest standard of care, tailored to your unique needs.
As an experienced psychiatrist, I provide a range of services via telemedicine. These include diagnostic assessments, follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive therapy. I utilize electronic-prescriptions, sending them directly to your pharmacy. I graduated and completed residency in 1999 at the University of Minnesota Medical School. What sets my practice apart is the autonomy I enjoy in my private practice. This freedom allows me to allocate the necessary time to each patient, ensuring that I provide the highest standard of care, tailored to your unique needs.
![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 55343
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 Abdirizak Nuno, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46341c16-e863-4823-ab2e-3138c79688a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice, we are currently accepting NEW patients for medication management, therapy, chemical dependency treatment including suboxone. We also provide esketamine/spravato. My interests are varied and include a wide spectrum of disorders, such as major depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, ADHD and PTSD. I explore the biological, psychological and social components of mental illness and utilize tools and interventions to evaluate and treat my patients, including diagnostic laboratory tests, prescribed medications and coping strategies. We accept most insurances and private pay.
In my practice, we are currently accepting NEW patients for medication management, therapy, chemical dependency treatment including suboxone. We also provide esketamine/spravato. My interests are varied and include a wide spectrum of disorders, such as major depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, ADHD and PTSD. I explore the biological, psychological and social components of mental illness and utilize tools and interventions to evaluate and treat my patients, including diagnostic laboratory tests, prescribed medications and coping strategies. We accept most insurances and private pay.
![Photo of Kendall Monroe, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c273786-fadb-4839-ac09-4e59c7637928/1/320x400.png)
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 Joan Gibson, MS, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df2f1eb-e352-489f-94b1-28f61f6364f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Dr. Bola Salabiu, Doctora, PMHNP, Masters, MAT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c873571d-39a7-4e8e-9343-a0f7247b936a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bola Salabiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Doctora, PMHNP, Masters, MAT
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55343 (Online Only)
Dr. Bola Salabiu is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of working with people experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, eating DO, Mental, Behavioral, Neurodevelopmental disorders, panic disorders, PTSD, and others. Bola sees patients through Lifespan for Mental health and medication management. Bola has extensive experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, seniors, families, couples, and groups in clinical and outpatient settings.
Dr. Bola Salabiu is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of working with people experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, eating DO, Mental, Behavioral, Neurodevelopmental disorders, panic disorders, PTSD, and others. Bola sees patients through Lifespan for Mental health and medication management. Bola has extensive experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, seniors, families, couples, and groups in clinical and outpatient settings.
![Photo of Tiffany Hurt, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e175d4c-e0aa-45c8-8de1-dcd3b588f887/1/320x400.png)
With a holistic and patient-centered approach, Tiffany crafts personalized treatment plans rooted in evidence-based practices. Driven by a genuine desire for her patients' well-being, Tiffany empowers them to achieve optimal mental health. Committed to ongoing education, she stays updated on the latest advancements in psychiatric care, ensuring top-notch treatment for those under her care.
With a holistic and patient-centered approach, Tiffany crafts personalized treatment plans rooted in evidence-based practices. Driven by a genuine desire for her patients' well-being, Tiffany empowers them to achieve optimal mental health. Committed to ongoing education, she stays updated on the latest advancements in psychiatric care, ensuring top-notch treatment for those under her care.
![Photo of Bryan Carleton - Psychotherapy & Healing Associates, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bd639a9-a27b-42de-8b83-20ab1bad6e28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many different factors cause depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. There may be situational, biological or hormonal components to a person’s suffering. Better self-care, coping techniques, and other alternatives may help, but may not bring enough relief or recovery necessary to function effectively and feel good. We perform thorough evaluations and have a discussion with you to determine if medication would be helpful or advised. Each person’s comfort level is respected and nothing is prescribed that goes against your willingness or readiness.
Many different factors cause depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. There may be situational, biological or hormonal components to a person’s suffering. Better self-care, coping techniques, and other alternatives may help, but may not bring enough relief or recovery necessary to function effectively and feel good. We perform thorough evaluations and have a discussion with you to determine if medication would be helpful or advised. Each person’s comfort level is respected and nothing is prescribed that goes against your willingness or readiness.
![Photo of John G Luehr, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc6a3508-8c44-441d-b55e-a62b7c0b9def/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe life’s challenges, including emotional wellness challenges, are like a team sport. You are the most important member of your team. But to play your best game, you need other team members for support, insight, coaching, and practice. My main role on the team is that of equipment manager. Your description of the obstacles and difficulties, coupled with my experience and knowledge, allows us as a team to create the best medication strategy for you. Just as the right shoes can help an athlete gain better traction, the right medication can help you engage in the other components of your emotional wellness.
I believe life’s challenges, including emotional wellness challenges, are like a team sport. You are the most important member of your team. But to play your best game, you need other team members for support, insight, coaching, and practice. My main role on the team is that of equipment manager. Your description of the obstacles and difficulties, coupled with my experience and knowledge, allows us as a team to create the best medication strategy for you. Just as the right shoes can help an athlete gain better traction, the right medication can help you engage in the other components of your emotional wellness.
![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 Shannon Meyers, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d567a31-fe49-4b3f-abb6-0be8ff55fb50/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients- Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though I practice exclusively in psychiatry. My background and clinical experience in family practice and psychiatry gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5-64. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you to improve your mental health.
Accepting New Patients- Hello, I'm Dr. Meyers. I’m double-board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and as a family nurse practitioner, though I practice exclusively in psychiatry. My background and clinical experience in family practice and psychiatry gives me a well-rounded perspective of both physical and mental well-being. I treat patients ages 5-64. I enjoy working with patients with a variety of diagnoses across the spectrum of mental health disorders. I look forward to working with you to improve your mental health.
![Photo of Haley Carlock, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6f92b03-9e5b-4093-94ee-ad2f602f3fb8/4/320x400.jpeg)
Haley Carlock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305 (Online Only)
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
![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 Ulas M Camsari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ae92e6-4c58-4375-a188-55fa92b04bdd/5/320x400.jpeg)
Ulas Camsari, M.D. ( Dr. C ) is a quadruple boarded psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience in the field. He has trained at Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital and Mayo Clinic. Dr. Camsari is board certified in four areas of psychiatry: General Adult Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine.
Ulas Camsari, M.D. ( Dr. C ) is a quadruple boarded psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience in the field. He has trained at Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital and Mayo Clinic. Dr. Camsari is board certified in four areas of psychiatry: General Adult Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine.
![Photo of Brett Springsted, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca0a0b12-e75b-46f5-9d94-ea977062eac4/1/320x400.png)
My professional ambition is to create a stigma free, collaborative environment where my patients can feel comfortable and respected. Communication between provider and client is paramount in achieving the ultimate goal, your mental well-being. Whether it’s lifestyle changes, therapeutic techniques, or medication management, I will tailor your treatment to align with your personal vision of a healthy life. This is never a “one size fits all” approach as our minds are all created in diverse and unique ways. Often, adjustments are needed to identify the best approach to realize the most optimal treatment plan.
My professional ambition is to create a stigma free, collaborative environment where my patients can feel comfortable and respected. Communication between provider and client is paramount in achieving the ultimate goal, your mental well-being. Whether it’s lifestyle changes, therapeutic techniques, or medication management, I will tailor your treatment to align with your personal vision of a healthy life. This is never a “one size fits all” approach as our minds are all created in diverse and unique ways. Often, adjustments are needed to identify the best approach to realize the most optimal treatment plan.
![Photo of Dan J. L. Durbin, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6d5823d-dc54-4263-b5be-169b06b2c7fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a clinician, Dan strives to collaborate with each patient to create a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates a variety of evidence-based healing modalities that may include psychotherapy, exercise, dietary changes, medications, behavioral modifications, positive psychology, and even spirituality (broadly defined), if desired. He particularly enjoys utilizing narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy with his patients. Dan always conducts a thorough medication review for each patient to ensure their medications are safe and appropriately dosed.
As a clinician, Dan strives to collaborate with each patient to create a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates a variety of evidence-based healing modalities that may include psychotherapy, exercise, dietary changes, medications, behavioral modifications, positive psychology, and even spirituality (broadly defined), if desired. He particularly enjoys utilizing narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy with his patients. Dan always conducts a thorough medication review for each patient to ensure their medications are safe and appropriately dosed.
See more therapy options for Hopkins
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hopkins, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hopkins, MN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
50% | Infertility |
50% | Life Coaching |
50% | Grief |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Medica |
How Psychiatrists in Hopkins, 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 Hopkins?
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.