Psychiatrists in Inver Grove Heights, MN
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and therapist with 40 years experience. I am experienced in prescribing psychiatric medications but believe there is substantial evidence that the risks of most psychiatric medications are greater than the benefits. Abruptly stopping medication can cause serious withdrawal symptoms which reinforces the belief that people need to remain on medication indefinitely. My experience with thousands of patients has been that therapy has much more long term benefit than medications and that with good therapy most people can gradually taper off medications eventually. I have a sliding fee scale and accept most major insurance.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and therapist with 40 years experience. I am experienced in prescribing psychiatric medications but believe there is substantial evidence that the risks of most psychiatric medications are greater than the benefits. Abruptly stopping medication can cause serious withdrawal symptoms which reinforces the belief that people need to remain on medication indefinitely. My experience with thousands of patients has been that therapy has much more long term benefit than medications and that with good therapy most people can gradually taper off medications eventually. I have a sliding fee scale and accept most major insurance.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
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).
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Book a Free 10 minutes Consultation Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Book a Free 10 minutes Consultation Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available.
Mountain & Valley Sojourning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC BC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101 (Online Only)
Life is hard. There are days and moments when we all could use someone to sojourn alongside us through the mountains and valleys that come our way. Someone to remind us that we are not alone, we are in this together and together we can make progress. Progress towards the greater good, progress towards your individual goals, progress in your own health and well-being. I believe that you can gain power over the valleys and develop handles to help you find purpose, hope, and healing. It is my privilege and passion to walk beside you and I find great hope and joy in your personal success! Let’s make it happen.
Life is hard. There are days and moments when we all could use someone to sojourn alongside us through the mountains and valleys that come our way. Someone to remind us that we are not alone, we are in this together and together we can make progress. Progress towards the greater good, progress towards your individual goals, progress in your own health and well-being. I believe that you can gain power over the valleys and develop handles to help you find purpose, hope, and healing. It is my privilege and passion to walk beside you and I find great hope and joy in your personal success! Let’s make it happen.
Telehealth appointments are available on weekends. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I have over ten years' experience helping with your mental health concerns from ages 6 years and above. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My focus is on providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. I am empathetic, a good listener, and willing to give an honest diagnosis and treatment plan irrespective of race, gender, or sexual orientation.
Telehealth appointments are available on weekends. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I have over ten years' experience helping with your mental health concerns from ages 6 years and above. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My focus is on providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. I am empathetic, a good listener, and willing to give an honest diagnosis and treatment plan irrespective of race, gender, or sexual orientation.
Alaba Kehinde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55106 (Online Only)
Hello, I am Alaba Kehinde "Kenny", I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a nonjudgmental provider who believes in an evidence-based approach to treatment. I have been helping adults (18 to 65+) with wide range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, PTSD, Sleep Disorder/Insomnia, ADHD, Postpartum Mental health conditions, etc. I am warm, approachable and an active listener.
Hello, I am Alaba Kehinde "Kenny", I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a nonjudgmental provider who believes in an evidence-based approach to treatment. I have been helping adults (18 to 65+) with wide range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, PTSD, Sleep Disorder/Insomnia, ADHD, Postpartum Mental health conditions, etc. I am warm, approachable and an active listener.
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.
Princess Gehyigon-Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55121
Have you experienced some kind of trauma or emotional challenge, or perhaps have been struggling with a mental health issue for some time? Are you open to exploring your feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment, and be willing to work hard to create positive change? Do you have a desire to learn how to manage your emotions and create healthier relationships with yourself and others? Martha’s Open Hands can help you, your child, or loved one by creating an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based practice that is safe and effective.
Have you experienced some kind of trauma or emotional challenge, or perhaps have been struggling with a mental health issue for some time? Are you open to exploring your feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment, and be willing to work hard to create positive change? Do you have a desire to learn how to manage your emotions and create healthier relationships with yourself and others? Martha’s Open Hands can help you, your child, or loved one by creating an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based practice that is safe and effective.
My name is Michael Omomo. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I have over ten years’ experience in helping people with mental health conditions, I treat individuals from ages 6 years and above. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I believe in an integrated approach to care for individuals with mental health. The types of treatments promoted include holistic healing, psychosocial interventions, and medication management.
My name is Michael Omomo. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I have over ten years’ experience in helping people with mental health conditions, I treat individuals from ages 6 years and above. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I believe in an integrated approach to care for individuals with mental health. The types of treatments promoted include holistic healing, psychosocial interventions, and medication management.
Asisat O Ashagbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I specialize in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health symptoms to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia and various mental health concerns. If you are looking for a provider that listens to your problems and cares about helping you improve then you have found the right person to be trusted with your care.
I specialize in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health symptoms to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia and various mental health concerns. If you are looking for a provider that listens to your problems and cares about helping you improve then you have found the right person to be trusted with your care.
Welcome! My name is Melissa Buss, I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I possess the skills and expertise to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders. With over a decade of expertise, I have served as an outpatient clinician in Minnesota addressing the mental health needs of individuals in rural settings.
Welcome! My name is Melissa Buss, I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a background in nursing and advanced training in psychiatry, I possess the skills and expertise to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychiatric disorders. With over a decade of expertise, I have served as an outpatient clinician in Minnesota addressing the mental health needs of individuals in rural settings.
Sarah Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) offering medication management services to children (ages 6+), adolescents, and adults. Life brings with it many challenges. Working together, I will help you gain a deeper understanding of how these challenges are impacting your life, and work with you on solutions to help you thrive.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) offering medication management services to children (ages 6+), adolescents, and adults. Life brings with it many challenges. Working together, I will help you gain a deeper understanding of how these challenges are impacting your life, and work with you on solutions to help you thrive.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Kristin Hanson (Oscarson)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rosemount, MN 55068
I enjoy working alongside clients and appreciate the complexity of each individual in the ups and down of life. Treatment plans are individualized to meet clients’ needs and can include medication, supplements, referrals to specific therapies, and lifestyle modification. As a Christian, I integrate faith into my practice for clients who are interested. Providing psychiatric evaluations, treatment and supportive therapy with a holistic and integrative approach for ages 14-64, I aim to collaborate and meet clients where they are at to support them in leading a healthy, fulfilling life.
I enjoy working alongside clients and appreciate the complexity of each individual in the ups and down of life. Treatment plans are individualized to meet clients’ needs and can include medication, supplements, referrals to specific therapies, and lifestyle modification. As a Christian, I integrate faith into my practice for clients who are interested. Providing psychiatric evaluations, treatment and supportive therapy with a holistic and integrative approach for ages 14-64, I aim to collaborate and meet clients where they are at to support them in leading a healthy, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Chandra. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Minnesota and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently available to see ages 16-65 for medication management services related to Mood disorders like Depression and Bipolar, Anxiety disorders like Generalized anxiety and OCD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder and psychotic disorders. I also do some mindful therapy with Binge Eating Disorder in addition to brief psychotherapy and psychoeducation during medication management appointments.
Hello, I'm Chandra. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in Minnesota and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently available to see ages 16-65 for medication management services related to Mood disorders like Depression and Bipolar, Anxiety disorders like Generalized anxiety and OCD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder and psychotic disorders. I also do some mindful therapy with Binge Eating Disorder in addition to brief psychotherapy and psychoeducation during medication management appointments.
Immediate Telehealth and in person clinic appointments available. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My focus is on providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. I am empathetic, a good listener, and is willing to give an honest diagnosis and treatment plan irrespective of race, gender, or sexual orientation.
Immediate Telehealth and in person clinic appointments available. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that is passionate about mental health. I am trained and qualified to diagnose and treat various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My focus is on providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. I am empathetic, a good listener, and is willing to give an honest diagnosis and treatment plan irrespective of race, gender, or sexual orientation.
Stacie Jorgenson-Rentschler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rosemount, MN 55068 (Online Only)
"A mental health facility should not be depressing or resemble a sterile hospital-type setting." Our office will be an inviting, colorful, interactive, encouraging, and uplifting place clients want to go to. The difference lies in how we treat our clients. From the nervous initial phone call to the joyful last session, our clients are not a number in our system. As a team, we work together towards better health and wellness for each of our clients. We strive for our patients to be independent
"A mental health facility should not be depressing or resemble a sterile hospital-type setting." Our office will be an inviting, colorful, interactive, encouraging, and uplifting place clients want to go to. The difference lies in how we treat our clients. From the nervous initial phone call to the joyful last session, our clients are not a number in our system. As a team, we work together towards better health and wellness for each of our clients. We strive for our patients to be independent
Ethan Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55116 (Online Only)
Ethan is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in various mental health settings including inpatient, emergency care, and outpatient clinic. Ethan is committed to welcoming patients of all backgrounds and helping them achieve their goals for wellness through evidence-based treatment options.
Ethan is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in various mental health settings including inpatient, emergency care, and outpatient clinic. Ethan is committed to welcoming patients of all backgrounds and helping them achieve their goals for wellness through evidence-based treatment options.
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55120
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.
Tina Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55106 (Online Only)
NEW clients BOOK an appointment on my WEBSITE: www.livewellnowmhs.net. My primary goal is to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, and my approach is whole-istic, incorporating the mind, body, spirit, empathy and understanding. My focus is on building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients, where we can work collaboratively towards a fulfilling life.
NEW clients BOOK an appointment on my WEBSITE: www.livewellnowmhs.net. My primary goal is to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health issues. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, and my approach is whole-istic, incorporating the mind, body, spirit, empathy and understanding. My focus is on building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients, where we can work collaboratively towards a fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Inver Grove Heights
Nearby Searches for Inver Grove Heights
- Apple Valley
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- Burnsville
- Cottage Grove
- Eagan
- Edina
- Mendota Heights
- Minneapolis
- Rosemount
- Saint Paul
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Inver Grove Heights, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Inver Grove Heights, MN who prioritize treating:
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BHS | Behavioral Health Systems |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Inver Grove Heights, MN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Inver Grove Heights?
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.