Psychiatrists in Lester Prairie, MN
![Photo of Jennifer Dotseth, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d723603-78fb-448f-a8ec-f6feea7a7d0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Dotseth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lester Prairie, MN 55354 (Online Only)
I strive to form an honest and transparent relationship with my clients. I believe that the provider-client relationship is a partnership; there is no one size fits all treatment plan. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to help guide and support you on your journey to better mental health; whether this involves treatment with medications, supplements for a more natural approach, a combination of the two, or a creative option which we come up with together.
I strive to form an honest and transparent relationship with my clients. I believe that the provider-client relationship is a partnership; there is no one size fits all treatment plan. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to help guide and support you on your journey to better mental health; whether this involves treatment with medications, supplements for a more natural approach, a combination of the two, or a creative option which we come up with together.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Nicole Peluso, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21691a99-e867-42c6-a0c8-810b0d0191db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Peluso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
As we approach the Fall season, we will work together on a collaborative approach to care, with the shared goal of helping you to be at your best in your mental health or addiction recovery. Medication management often serves as a foundation for your treatment, alongside lifestyle changes and whole-body interventions. Working in the mental health field for over 12yrs has given me a unique understanding of the ways in which mental health and/or addiction can intersect to impact your wellbeing. By fully understanding your experience and needs, we will partner in getting you the concrete help you need.
As we approach the Fall season, we will work together on a collaborative approach to care, with the shared goal of helping you to be at your best in your mental health or addiction recovery. Medication management often serves as a foundation for your treatment, alongside lifestyle changes and whole-body interventions. Working in the mental health field for over 12yrs has given me a unique understanding of the ways in which mental health and/or addiction can intersect to impact your wellbeing. By fully understanding your experience and needs, we will partner in getting you the concrete help you need.
![Photo of Jacqueline Cooper, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f78e513c-7e16-4422-8f00-aa1e17fd6828/1/320x400.png)
Jackie Cooper is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of experience working in mental health. She's skilled in working with a variety of patient populations across the mental health care continuum and treats adults ages 18 and older. Jackie is passionate about helping people live their best lives and strives to provide care that is meaningful to each individual and fully involves each patient in their care.
Jackie Cooper is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of experience working in mental health. She's skilled in working with a variety of patient populations across the mental health care continuum and treats adults ages 18 and older. Jackie is passionate about helping people live their best lives and strives to provide care that is meaningful to each individual and fully involves each patient in their care.
![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 Karl Olson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2c57331-00e5-4087-b34f-cf930d287893/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karl Olson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55439
I have immediate openings at SensibleMentalHealth.com. Make your life easier by removing the barriers of traditional psychiatric care. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience serving adults with mood, anxiety, thought, trauma, eating, and substance use disorders. I believe in teaching people about the intricacies of mental illness and treatment and advocating for their recovery. I believe medications play a powerful – yet in some cases proportionally small – role in mental health recovery. I am authentic, direct, and empathetic.
I have immediate openings at SensibleMentalHealth.com. Make your life easier by removing the barriers of traditional psychiatric care. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience serving adults with mood, anxiety, thought, trauma, eating, and substance use disorders. I believe in teaching people about the intricacies of mental illness and treatment and advocating for their recovery. I believe medications play a powerful – yet in some cases proportionally small – role in mental health recovery. I am authentic, direct, and empathetic.
![Photo of Daniel Moegi, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed26627-5a9a-44ca-9cde-d24c89affb28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Every person is unique and so is their chemistry. Finding the right medication or combination requires experience and expertise. A vast knowledge of the different medications used to treat mental health issues is vital to appropriate treatment success. Once we diagnosis exactly what is going on, we move on to the most effective treatment options until symptom relief is achieved.
Every person is unique and so is their chemistry. Finding the right medication or combination requires experience and expertise. A vast knowledge of the different medications used to treat mental health issues is vital to appropriate treatment success. Once we diagnosis exactly what is going on, we move on to the most effective treatment options until symptom relief is achieved.
![Photo of Charlotte Szabo, DNP, PMHFNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d3765e-286d-4feb-a71b-7f2384483d74/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Szabo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHFNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I am board certified to treat children, adolescents, and adults for simple, multiplex, and the most challenging psychiatric disorders. I have extensive experience with hospital, community, and outpatient practices with a substantial range of patients from different ethnic, sexual, and socio-economic backgrounds. My patients often say that my distinctive perspective helps to form the open, trusting, and personable relationship I have with them. As a prescriber of psychiatric medications, I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients, and digging deep to find the solution(s) to the difficulties that might be causing you distress.
I am board certified to treat children, adolescents, and adults for simple, multiplex, and the most challenging psychiatric disorders. I have extensive experience with hospital, community, and outpatient practices with a substantial range of patients from different ethnic, sexual, and socio-economic backgrounds. My patients often say that my distinctive perspective helps to form the open, trusting, and personable relationship I have with them. As a prescriber of psychiatric medications, I enjoy working with a wide variety of patients, and digging deep to find the solution(s) to the difficulties that might be causing you distress.
![Photo of Tracy Zimmerman-DeSchepper ( Modern Mojo), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a5108d-bced-47e6-9308-d0ac9c34b32c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tracy Zimmerman-DeSchepper ( Modern Mojo)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Willmar, MN 56201
Fom inception, we set out to design a different kind of mental health clinic than any in the area. Our idea started with this statement "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
Fom inception, we set out to design a different kind of mental health clinic than any in the area. Our idea started with this statement "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
![Photo of Maria Metry, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6745553b-fdcb-4da6-8e01-ebf041579ca2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Metry is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2014. She received her undergraduate degree from St. Catherine University and doctorate of nurse practitioner from the University of Minnesota. Maria prides herself on creating an atmosphere of openness and acceptance with a little bit of humor. Her practice is based on getting to know the whole person and together creating a holistic plan to give her patients the most joy out of life. Maria's strength includes being empathic, nonjudgmental, and solution focused.
Maria Metry is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2014. She received her undergraduate degree from St. Catherine University and doctorate of nurse practitioner from the University of Minnesota. Maria prides herself on creating an atmosphere of openness and acceptance with a little bit of humor. Her practice is based on getting to know the whole person and together creating a holistic plan to give her patients the most joy out of life. Maria's strength includes being empathic, nonjudgmental, and solution focused.
![Photo of Nkechi Ezema - Patterns Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d44141f3-2a95-407c-a7a1-f5e116b7e8ec/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patterns Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55401 (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING new virtual patients with same-week appointments. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illnesses is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
NOW ACCEPTING new virtual patients with same-week appointments. The thought of being all alone in a negative cycle that may be a result of anxiety, trauma, depression, unhealthy coping skills, and/or environmental stressors can be daunting. The treatment for most mental illnesses is effective therapy. However, some need a little more than therapy. How would you know if you could benefit from medications? If you have been suffering for a long time in a limited and/or negative cycle, most likely your brain will need some help; the right psychotropic medication will help improve your symptoms.
![Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a284a883-64e7-43f1-80f0-e9ab397eaad7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306 (Online Only)
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
![Photo of Chinwe Eke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbb653ad-b8e0-4f0d-801e-2d885b4dba1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chinwe Eke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Minnesota. I received my Masters from Liberty University, Virginia, and have been practicing for 2 years. I help young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, career stress, and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
Hi! I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Minnesota. I received my Masters from Liberty University, Virginia, and have been practicing for 2 years. I help young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, career stress, and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
![Photo of Ekaete Oyeka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77b01eb1-cee9-47f4-a800-96c01b9982f4/1/320x400.png)
Ekaete "Eka" Oyeka, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who believes in a client's uniqueness and ensures holistic care based on individual needs. I provide individualized treatment using an evidence-based approach along with holistic care that facilitates the body’s own natural ability to relieve symptoms. My approach therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which focuses on examining and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors to promote positive changes in emotions and behaviors.
Ekaete "Eka" Oyeka, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who believes in a client's uniqueness and ensures holistic care based on individual needs. I provide individualized treatment using an evidence-based approach along with holistic care that facilitates the body’s own natural ability to relieve symptoms. My approach therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which focuses on examining and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors to promote positive changes in emotions and behaviors.
![Photo of Mercy K Miantona, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fadfaa1c-ba67-455a-a4c2-87abf9828cca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mercy K Miantona
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Mercy Miantona is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in treating patients ages 12 and older experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders.
Mercy Miantona is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in treating patients ages 12 and older experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Phoebe Nyabando, Nyaband, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dac71b9-7f86-4fde-8259-e6a42ad048cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Phoebe Nyabando is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master of Science Degree with a major in Mental Health. Prior to that she was a registered nurse for 8 years with most of her time in inpatient psychiatry. Phoebe has experience in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has eight years of experience working as a nurse, with most of her time in inpatient psychiatry and mental health. Phoebe's treatment model is a holistic approach and patient-centered care.
Phoebe Nyabando is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master of Science Degree with a major in Mental Health. Prior to that she was a registered nurse for 8 years with most of her time in inpatient psychiatry. Phoebe has experience in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has eight years of experience working as a nurse, with most of her time in inpatient psychiatry and mental health. Phoebe's treatment model is a holistic approach and patient-centered care.
![Photo of Suzanne Lee, DNP, PMHCNS, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9d547d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have expertise in addiction, trauma, emotional and physiological pain, and a range of psychiatric illnesses; I particularly appreciate the need to treat clients holistically, taking into account co-morbid issues, when such are present. I believe in a partnership with clients to enhance strengths and address, when possible, harmful behaviors, beliefs and relationships. I diagnose, prescribe and offer therapy for psychiatric and psychological problems for individuals, couples and families.
I have expertise in addiction, trauma, emotional and physiological pain, and a range of psychiatric illnesses; I particularly appreciate the need to treat clients holistically, taking into account co-morbid issues, when such are present. I believe in a partnership with clients to enhance strengths and address, when possible, harmful behaviors, beliefs and relationships. I diagnose, prescribe and offer therapy for psychiatric and psychological problems for individuals, couples and families.
![Photo of Susan Njuakom, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76890e82-ca10-4c71-b3b5-76f36ac770da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Njuakom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55413 (Online Only)
Sue (she/her) specializes in providing individualized, holistic, evidence-based, and culturally sensitive care to her patients. Sue enjoys serving BIPOC and LGBTQA populations and is a firm believer in collaborative care where patients are an active participant in their own care. She has worked at various community mental health centers, mental health crisis stabilization centers, the department of corrections, and at various inpatient mental health/substance abuse treatment centers.
Sue (she/her) specializes in providing individualized, holistic, evidence-based, and culturally sensitive care to her patients. Sue enjoys serving BIPOC and LGBTQA populations and is a firm believer in collaborative care where patients are an active participant in their own care. She has worked at various community mental health centers, mental health crisis stabilization centers, the department of corrections, and at various inpatient mental health/substance abuse treatment centers.
![Photo of Tina Alexander, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35e1153a-0057-4f8d-86b2-599b2edc7973/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tina Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55439 (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.
![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 Gladys A Ndege, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89d8a366-eedd-4e32-b892-339f073f6e76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gladys A Ndege
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Champlin, MN 55316 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients within 48 hours, via Telehealth only, for psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and medication management for mood disorders, trauma, sleep issues, anxiety and other mental health issues. I believe that the development of mental health conditions is a combination of factors relating to genetics, environment and other stressors. Every client presents differently and therefore, I work with each individual uniquely to address the challenges associated with mental health. My approach is Client-Centered Care that enables and encourages clients to take part in their care.
Now accepting new patients within 48 hours, via Telehealth only, for psychiatric evaluation, brief psychotherapy and medication management for mood disorders, trauma, sleep issues, anxiety and other mental health issues. I believe that the development of mental health conditions is a combination of factors relating to genetics, environment and other stressors. Every client presents differently and therefore, I work with each individual uniquely to address the challenges associated with mental health. My approach is Client-Centered Care that enables and encourages clients to take part in their care.
See more therapy options for Lester Prairie
Nearby Searches for Lester Prairie
- Bloomington
- Chanhassen
- Eden Prairie
- Edina
- Golden Valley
- Maple Grove
- Minnetonka
- Plymouth
- Saint Louis Park
- Savage
- Shakopee
- Wayzata
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lester Prairie, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lester Prairie, MN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Other |
How Psychiatrists in Lester Prairie, MN see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lester Prairie?
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.