Psychiatrists in Redwood County, MN
![Photo of Stacie Jorgenson-Rentschler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7b7a6a0-2eb5-429a-a329-58f70f24cda2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stacie Jorgenson-Rentschler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Redwood Falls, MN 56283
"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
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Brenna Christie, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adf0958f-cf6c-4f96-ba06-c0dbfd69103d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brenna Christie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds and have a particular interest in women’s mental health. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and what is important to you. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds and have a particular interest in women’s mental health. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and what is important to you. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
![Photo of Malinda Lynch - Emerald Bridge Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57b8c38e-d9fd-4d0d-951d-08fc9c6a43f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emerald Bridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prior Lake, MN 55372 (Online Only)
Using an integrative approach, busy professional adults can receive a holistic approach to your care. Depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia are all ailments that can be approached by looking at the whole body and mind. Hormones, diet, weight can also play a role in your overall health and well-being.
Using an integrative approach, busy professional adults can receive a holistic approach to your care. Depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia are all ailments that can be approached by looking at the whole body and mind. Hormones, diet, weight can also play a role in your overall health and well-being.
![Photo of Chase Thomas, DNP, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21e12151-973c-4604-80f1-276554f23980/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chase Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55306
My ideal client is one that is looking to improve their mental health symptoms and their quality of life.
My ideal client is one that is looking to improve their mental health symptoms and their quality of life.
![Photo of Kayla E Nowak, PMHNP, APRN, CNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd414837-55ed-4f61-9053-89f8fdb30322/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla E Nowak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I am passionate about providing patient centered care. I enjoys education and being a life-long learner. My clinical interests encompass a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders, and substance abuse disorders. With a diverse clinical background and experience in treating patients in various settings, I focus on integrating traditional psychiatric treatments with complementary approaches. This allows me to provide my patients with the best tools possible to achieve their goals.
I am passionate about providing patient centered care. I enjoys education and being a life-long learner. My clinical interests encompass a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders, and substance abuse disorders. With a diverse clinical background and experience in treating patients in various settings, I focus on integrating traditional psychiatric treatments with complementary approaches. This allows me to provide my patients with the best tools possible to achieve their goals.
![Photo of Kadian Simmonds, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b33d13fe-9331-4882-ac3f-3fe0b2c1a430/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kadian Simmonds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044 (Online Only)
Our mental health is essential in keeping us balanced in our daily lives. I can help you obtain balance in your mental health. My goal is to help you handle your interpretation and response to your daily stressors. I can assist you through psychotherapy or prescriptive medications. During my spare time I enjoy the oceans and rivers. My interpretation of life is like the ocean coming to shore, it is always a different wave symbolic for our opportunity to make a difference daily.
Our mental health is essential in keeping us balanced in our daily lives. I can help you obtain balance in your mental health. My goal is to help you handle your interpretation and response to your daily stressors. I can assist you through psychotherapy or prescriptive medications. During my spare time I enjoy the oceans and rivers. My interpretation of life is like the ocean coming to shore, it is always a different wave symbolic for our opportunity to make a difference daily.
![Photo of 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 Jennifer Dotseth, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d723603-78fb-448f-a8ec-f6feea7a7d0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Dotseth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lester Prairie, MN 55354 (Online Only)
I strive to form an honest and transparent relationship with my clients. I believe that the provider-client relationship is a partnership; there is no one size fits all treatment plan. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to help guide and support you on your journey to better mental health; whether this involves treatment with medications, supplements for a more natural approach, a combination of the two, or a creative option which we come up with together.
I strive to form an honest and transparent relationship with my clients. I believe that the provider-client relationship is a partnership; there is no one size fits all treatment plan. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to help guide and support you on your journey to better mental health; whether this involves treatment with medications, supplements for a more natural approach, a combination of the two, or a creative option which we come up with together.
![Photo of 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 Daniel S. McCoy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2d1af0f-348f-444f-81af-77eeae3d64db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel S. McCoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55437 (Online Only)
All services are 100% via telepsychiatry and are currently available to patients residing in the states of Iowa, Minnesota, and New York!
All services are 100% via telepsychiatry and are currently available to patients residing in the states of Iowa, Minnesota, and New York!
![Photo of Jane M Mugambi - Sycamore Holistic Telepsychiatry, LLC, DNP, PHMNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/170c4efa-7e3f-4c9b-9e89-7db36299a548/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sycamore Holistic Telepsychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Mankato, MN 56001 (Online Only)
Sycamore Holistic Telepsychiatry LLC is a psychiatric, medication management, and psychotherapy-based organization. We treat patients across the lifespan by doing evaluations, providing medication management, and psychotherapy. We are mainly a telepsychiatry practice that provides outpatient holistic services on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis, depending on the needs of our clients. We also provide referrals for crisis intervention or acute level of care services when necessary. Our holistic approach to care is individualized and culturally appropriate. We walk hand in hand with our clients on their wellness journey.
Sycamore Holistic Telepsychiatry LLC is a psychiatric, medication management, and psychotherapy-based organization. We treat patients across the lifespan by doing evaluations, providing medication management, and psychotherapy. We are mainly a telepsychiatry practice that provides outpatient holistic services on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis, depending on the needs of our clients. We also provide referrals for crisis intervention or acute level of care services when necessary. Our holistic approach to care is individualized and culturally appropriate. We walk hand in hand with our clients on their wellness journey.
![Photo of Jeremiah Randall, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/859144ca-71e4-4f23-98db-9b99f2550f62/1/320x400.png)
I welcome the diversity of all people and approach everyone as a priority. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. As your advocate, I strive to enhance your personal wellbeing through honest and transparent communication. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and for what is important to you. To me, you are not just my client, you are a unique and valuable person, who happens to be my client. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
I welcome the diversity of all people and approach everyone as a priority. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. As your advocate, I strive to enhance your personal wellbeing through honest and transparent communication. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and for what is important to you. To me, you are not just my client, you are a unique and valuable person, who happens to be my client. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
![Photo of Afolake Adewumi, MPH, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2653ae33-0c77-4c51-8ca8-6a319604cd91/2/320x400.jpeg)
Afolake Adewumi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
Afolake is a board certified, advanced practice provider who is passionate about providing safe, and holistic care to clients across the lifespan. Afolake provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and on-going psychiatric care for patients of all ages. With her experience working in various care settings (inpatient, transitional, and outpatient populations) and a background in health and wellness coaching, Afolake, listens to help identify and prioritize the unique needs of each client.
Afolake is a board certified, advanced practice provider who is passionate about providing safe, and holistic care to clients across the lifespan. Afolake provides psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and on-going psychiatric care for patients of all ages. With her experience working in various care settings (inpatient, transitional, and outpatient populations) and a background in health and wellness coaching, Afolake, listens to help identify and prioritize the unique needs of each client.
![Photo of Grant Gregory, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/accbf63e-199a-4fdc-aa4e-1f1348fba64f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grant Gregory is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and received his Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota in 2014. He has enjoyed working in the behavioral health field since 2006. He has worked and trained in a variety of settings including chemical dependency facilities, adult/child/adolescent inpatient hospitals, outpatient and forensic settings, and in residential treatment of severe and persistent mental illnesses.
Grant Gregory is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and received his Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Minnesota in 2014. He has enjoyed working in the behavioral health field since 2006. He has worked and trained in a variety of settings including chemical dependency facilities, adult/child/adolescent inpatient hospitals, outpatient and forensic settings, and in residential treatment of severe and persistent mental illnesses.
![Photo of Kendall Monroe, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c273786-fadb-4839-ac09-4e59c7637928/1/320x400.png)
Kendall Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55438
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 James Tutu Fiske, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c22d95c8-4d69-4664-bc43-83d2e877e4a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
James T. Fiske has worked as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2020, after obtaining his graduate degree from the University of Arizona with honors and then passing the board exam. He worked as an outpatient provider for homeless people with a history of substance abuse and other comorbid psychiatric conditions. He later and currently works as a crisis provider with over a year of experience in that field.
James T. Fiske has worked as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2020, after obtaining his graduate degree from the University of Arizona with honors and then passing the board exam. He worked as an outpatient provider for homeless people with a history of substance abuse and other comorbid psychiatric conditions. He later and currently works as a crisis provider with over a year of experience in that field.
![Photo of Deborah Troy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c43eb40-3c4f-42fb-92d7-980c3adea771/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Troy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305 (Online Only)
Hello, I am Board Certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Hello, I am Board Certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Jhaurel Johnson White, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96631b41-0ed5-421d-bb04-2c460aa3f5a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jhaurel Johnson White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mankato, MN 56001 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
![Photo of Anthony Shabrack, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d6888f0-f734-4839-ad3d-ab29146b7d82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony Shabrack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Anthony Shabrack (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner in Minnesota with over 12 years experience in psychiatric nursing and mental health care. He studied at Walden University where he earned a Master of Science in Nursing and is now a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is Board Certified by the ANCC. Anthony views mental health as the cornerstone of a person’s overall health. He believes that in order for a person to be truly healthy, their mental health must first in a good state.
Anthony Shabrack (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner in Minnesota with over 12 years experience in psychiatric nursing and mental health care. He studied at Walden University where he earned a Master of Science in Nursing and is now a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is Board Certified by the ANCC. Anthony views mental health as the cornerstone of a person’s overall health. He believes that in order for a person to be truly healthy, their mental health must first in a good state.
![Photo of Jessica Wettlin, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf4c042f-4c3a-46fc-8ebd-39c797a290a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Wettlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378 (Online Only)
Jessica is a highly trained and knowledgeable Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree in Nursing and Board Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health. She has spent over 21 years in mental health serving both child and adult clients and is passionate about helping others navigate their own mental health challenges. She started her career in mental health working in both the adult and juvenile correction settings, mental health group homes, and continued on into the Healthcare setting. She has since served in inpatient hospitals, supervised mental health lodging facilities, and taught mental health in Universities and hospitals.
Jessica is a highly trained and knowledgeable Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree in Nursing and Board Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health. She has spent over 21 years in mental health serving both child and adult clients and is passionate about helping others navigate their own mental health challenges. She started her career in mental health working in both the adult and juvenile correction settings, mental health group homes, and continued on into the Healthcare setting. She has since served in inpatient hospitals, supervised mental health lodging facilities, and taught mental health in Universities and hospitals.
See more therapy options for Redwood County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Redwood County, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Redwood County, MN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Grief |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Humana |
How Psychiatrists in Redwood County, MN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Redwood County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.