Psychiatrists in Redwood Falls, 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 Crystal Hopkins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/959fc80b-361d-4428-9074-0975efbd3277/2/320x400.png)
Crystal Hopkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Owatonna, MN 55060 (Online Only)
Dr. Hopkins (she/her) received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from The University of Alabama in 2013. Dr. Hopkins holds two Masters degrees in nursing from Troy University (conferred in 2007) and The University of Alabama at Birmingham (conferred in 2017). She is dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. uring Dr. Hopkins’ many years of clinical experience she has worked in a variety of clinical settings as a nurse practitioner to include mental health/psychiatry, emergency medicine, internal medicine, family practice, women’s health, pediatrics, and geriatrics.
Dr. Hopkins (she/her) received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from The University of Alabama in 2013. Dr. Hopkins holds two Masters degrees in nursing from Troy University (conferred in 2007) and The University of Alabama at Birmingham (conferred in 2017). She is dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. uring Dr. Hopkins’ many years of clinical experience she has worked in a variety of clinical settings as a nurse practitioner to include mental health/psychiatry, emergency medicine, internal medicine, family practice, women’s health, pediatrics, and geriatrics.
![Photo of Israel Sokeye - Plymouth Psych Group, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/343d45cc-f457-48c6-87b9-fc918d0a8935/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
We are a full-service mental health clinic and believe in a holistic approach for the treatment of mental illness - based on treating the "whole" person, taking into consideration the mental, emotional, physical, and social aspects of well-being. With compassion and understanding, our clinical team work with everyone to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. While focusing on our work to perform comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and advanced treatment of mental disorders in children and adults, our mission is to provide excellent and compassionate mental health care.
![Photo of Denay Kelly, FNP-C, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a7b4066-54db-4ef1-b992-c908e94f862f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denay Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Online Only)
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Denay Kelly, your compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatric and hospital medicine. With a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, I've cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs. Throughout my career, I've embraced various pivotal roles that have allowed me to provide exceptional care in emergency situations and routine health management.
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Denay Kelly, your compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatric and hospital medicine. With a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, I've cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs. Throughout my career, I've embraced various pivotal roles that have allowed me to provide exceptional care in emergency situations and routine health management.
![Photo of Natasha Isaman, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eae1a5bf-583c-4968-9ede-c1e8e90f7b8b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natasha Isaman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55435 (Online Only)
Natasha is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in MN, ND, ID, and IA. She holds a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Grand Forks, North Dakota. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Minnesota State University, Moorhead, MN. Natasha sees clients ages 5 and older. Natasha has 17+ years of healthcare experience working in home health, assisted living, long term care, and inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use. As a PMHNP-BC, Natasha provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for those of all ages and backgrounds.
Natasha is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in MN, ND, ID, and IA. She holds a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Grand Forks, North Dakota. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Minnesota State University, Moorhead, MN. Natasha sees clients ages 5 and older. Natasha has 17+ years of healthcare experience working in home health, assisted living, long term care, and inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use. As a PMHNP-BC, Natasha provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for those of all ages and backgrounds.
![Photo of Cassidy Furey, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03bf64c0-aefa-4ff7-a297-99287d56dd4b/1/320x400.png)
Cassidy Furey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I am a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have experience providing medication management for ages 4+ for a variety of conditions including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and other mood disorders. I take into consideration a comprehensive assessment and develop a realistic treatment plan with patients and families.
I am a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have experience providing medication management for ages 4+ for a variety of conditions including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and other mood disorders. I take into consideration a comprehensive assessment and develop a realistic treatment plan with patients and families.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8650f484-590c-4339-91a8-ba6aee21c24d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/191da22e-26bd-4f5a-9eb2-42e6b6f86bd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anoka, MN 55303
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Shakleen A Shakur - Pointcare Medical Centre , CNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5d4ca1e-8b03-4fa6-bc9c-64702eb35dc8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pointcare Medical Centre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I am a dual certified Family Nurse practitioner and Psychiatry and mental health nurse practitioner. My approach focuses on warm, compassionate, holistic, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach to treat clients.. I believe every patient has a unique story to share and I make every effort to provide individualized and culturally, sensitive care I apply an array of treatment modalities supporting the biological, psychological, and social dynamics of mental and physical need. I am passionate and committed to partnering with patients and their families, and to provide care that is uniquely tailored to their individual need .
I am a dual certified Family Nurse practitioner and Psychiatry and mental health nurse practitioner. My approach focuses on warm, compassionate, holistic, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach to treat clients.. I believe every patient has a unique story to share and I make every effort to provide individualized and culturally, sensitive care I apply an array of treatment modalities supporting the biological, psychological, and social dynamics of mental and physical need. I am passionate and committed to partnering with patients and their families, and to provide care that is uniquely tailored to their individual need .
![Photo of Jacob Robinson, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be7b3735-64e4-420b-ad62-5f75da04d157/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacob Robinson is a Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2019. Jacob believes in a holistic and collaborative approach to mental health care. He specializes in ADHD (AttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), depression, anxiety disorders, and insomnia. He works closely with his clients to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate psychotherapy, medication management, lifestyle modifications, and complementary therapies as appropriate. Jacob emphasizes patient education and empowerment, striving to create a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel heard and respected.
Jacob Robinson is a Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2019. Jacob believes in a holistic and collaborative approach to mental health care. He specializes in ADHD (AttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), depression, anxiety disorders, and insomnia. He works closely with his clients to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate psychotherapy, medication management, lifestyle modifications, and complementary therapies as appropriate. Jacob emphasizes patient education and empowerment, striving to create a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel heard and respected.
![Photo of Kayla Kvell, DNP, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7be5b614-8593-4ec7-a6da-031f1b276fb7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Kvell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369 (Online Only)
Dr. Kayla Kvell is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents (14+) and adults. Her areas of special interest include ADHD; bipolar disorder and mood issues; postpartum depression, peri & postmenopausal symptoms; and metabolic/hormonal dysfunction and its impact on mental health. She uses an integrative approach to address and identify underlying causes of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Kayla Kvell is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents (14+) and adults. Her areas of special interest include ADHD; bipolar disorder and mood issues; postpartum depression, peri & postmenopausal symptoms; and metabolic/hormonal dysfunction and its impact on mental health. She uses an integrative approach to address and identify underlying causes of psychiatric conditions.
![Photo of Emily Luitjens, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32e04afa-eb54-4d09-8e0b-4ed8ef2107bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Luitjens is a highly qualified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions, including caring for patients with dementia. She provides compassionate, collaborative and holistic care.
Emily Luitjens is a highly qualified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions, including caring for patients with dementia. She provides compassionate, collaborative and holistic care.
![Photo of Olivia Grayson, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29919e63-dbc9-43b5-80c1-e68ecbb7d9a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
With a passion for mental health and a commitment to patient care, Olivia strives to provide personalized and holistic treatment plans that promote well-being and recovery. She is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients and is driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to high-quality mental health care.
With a passion for mental health and a commitment to patient care, Olivia strives to provide personalized and holistic treatment plans that promote well-being and recovery. She is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients and is driven by the belief that every individual deserves access to high-quality mental health care.
![Photo of Tami L Kittleson, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b02dee10-f419-44ca-8def-03603574933f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tami L Kittleson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
As a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I aim to create holistic treatment plans that are both practical and personalized to your specific health needs. My goal is to empower you to take an active role in your health journey, as this is crucial to achieving the best possible outcomes. I believe that wellness is a multifaceted intersection of physical, mental, and emotional health. Factors such as diet, physical activity, daily habits, relationships, gut health, mindfulness, and meditation are all essential in promoting overall well-being. My role is to assist you throughout the process, providing support and guidance
As a Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I aim to create holistic treatment plans that are both practical and personalized to your specific health needs. My goal is to empower you to take an active role in your health journey, as this is crucial to achieving the best possible outcomes. I believe that wellness is a multifaceted intersection of physical, mental, and emotional health. Factors such as diet, physical activity, daily habits, relationships, gut health, mindfulness, and meditation are all essential in promoting overall well-being. My role is to assist you throughout the process, providing support and guidance
![Photo of Ethan Hamilton, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c3a510c-9f12-4abf-a566-fa9b6312c877/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ethan Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (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.
![Photo of Noussaiba Ayour, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c0413ee-5176-4e92-a19c-543715dbdd38/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client seeks compassionate, holistic care for challenges like anxiety, ADHD, or weight management. They want a tailored treatment plan that addresses their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Their goal is to achieve balanced health, and they value a collaborative approach in their healthcare journey.
My ideal client seeks compassionate, holistic care for challenges like anxiety, ADHD, or weight management. They want a tailored treatment plan that addresses their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Their goal is to achieve balanced health, and they value a collaborative approach in their healthcare journey.
![Photo of Kayla Parker, CNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88b1e166-a297-4302-b340-65218ec9a0a5/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! I am double board certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I believe in working with my patients to develop a plan that works for their individual needs. I focus on not only mental health but also the physical health of my patients.
Welcome! I am double board certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I believe in working with my patients to develop a plan that works for their individual needs. I focus on not only mental health but also the physical health of my patients.
![Photo of Oreoluwa Oye, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9732a4b-7fda-43bd-86da-4f7abbbedcec/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I obtained a Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee Knoxville-Health Sciences in 2016. With seven years of experience in interdisciplinary care settings, I specialize in working with highly complex patient populations. My commitment lies in delivering personalized patient care, integrating a holistic approach that addresses both medical and social factors affecting wellbeing. Alongside my clinical practice, I am dedicated to educating doctoral student candidates and newly graduated psychiatric nurse practitioners.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I obtained a Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee Knoxville-Health Sciences in 2016. With seven years of experience in interdisciplinary care settings, I specialize in working with highly complex patient populations. My commitment lies in delivering personalized patient care, integrating a holistic approach that addresses both medical and social factors affecting wellbeing. Alongside my clinical practice, I am dedicated to educating doctoral student candidates and newly graduated psychiatric nurse practitioners.
![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 John E. Harrison, PMHNP, CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f5fb211-6221-4d67-b6c6-b7b80e4225fd/3/320x400.jpeg)
John E. Harrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MN 55446
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•
See more therapy options for Redwood Falls
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Redwood Falls, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Redwood Falls, 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 Falls, 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 Falls?
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.