Psychiatrists in Wadena, MN
![Photo of Amanda Larson-Redning - New Chapters Mental Health & Wellness LLC, APRN, CNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b049611d-d1dc-480a-8e19-d2a1749e5ca8/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Chapters Mental Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Wadena, MN 56482
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Christine Hanson, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58732571-9822-42be-81b4-77096e69179b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with patients who experience Perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, life changes, stress, grief/loss, mindfulness, and coping skills.
I work with patients who experience Perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, life changes, stress, grief/loss, mindfulness, and coping skills.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8efd7a5d-135b-41e0-8cde-81c19cf66e56/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Jeremiah Randall - East Central Behavioral Health LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04637bc5-3d6b-4fd9-84e8-489e1a484360/1/320x400.jpeg)
East Central Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mora, MN 55051 (Online Only)
I am certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which means I am certified to provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan (ages 6 and up). I have been in the metal health field for 20 years, training in a variety of mental health settings including outpatient community mental health, private practice, direct care with children and adolescents, corrections, and both forensic and substance abuse programs. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
I am certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which means I am certified to provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy for individuals across the lifespan (ages 6 and up). I have been in the metal health field for 20 years, training in a variety of mental health settings including outpatient community mental health, private practice, direct care with children and adolescents, corrections, and both forensic and substance abuse programs. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
![Photo of Dr. Aminata Sankoh Kamara, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2d075cc-be60-4583-b7f9-5a35ef62c7bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Aminata Sankoh Kamara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Moorhead, MN 56560
Hello, My name is Ami, I am a Doctorate prepared Board-Certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. My practice specializes in outpatient Medication management for Psychiatric/Mental Illnesses such as Anxiety, Panic Attacks, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and more. I see all age groups (Children, Adolescents, and Adult) . We provide Telehealth and In-person visits to individuals residing in North Dakota & Minnesota.
Hello, My name is Ami, I am a Doctorate prepared Board-Certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. My practice specializes in outpatient Medication management for Psychiatric/Mental Illnesses such as Anxiety, Panic Attacks, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and more. I see all age groups (Children, Adolescents, and Adult) . We provide Telehealth and In-person visits to individuals residing in North Dakota & Minnesota.
![Photo of Mackenzie Snortum, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31461d2e-d3c8-466a-93e0-5848863d6cb1/2/320x400.jpeg)
“My goal is for every person to leave feeling enlightened and confident that this is a safe place to dig deep, be open about all experiences of their lives regardless of judgement or societal norms”. – Mackenzie
“My goal is for every person to leave feeling enlightened and confident that this is a safe place to dig deep, be open about all experiences of their lives regardless of judgement or societal norms”. – Mackenzie
![Photo of Katlyn Bowman, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ede483f8-db1c-47f1-8d6b-e9d999fe9aa5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katlyn Bowman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Bemidji, MN 56601 (Online Only)
At T-Force Health, I serve clients who are seeking convenient and comprehensive mental health care through telehealth. My clients grapple with busy schedules, limited provider availability, and geographical barriers. Clients need flexible scheduling, access to mental health care, and comprehensive services, that includes therapy and medication management all in one visit. The ideal client is looking to improve mental well-being, manage symptoms, and lead a balanced life. All of this can be achieved through my practice at T-Force Health with guaranteed privacy and anonymity on the clients time.
At T-Force Health, I serve clients who are seeking convenient and comprehensive mental health care through telehealth. My clients grapple with busy schedules, limited provider availability, and geographical barriers. Clients need flexible scheduling, access to mental health care, and comprehensive services, that includes therapy and medication management all in one visit. The ideal client is looking to improve mental well-being, manage symptoms, and lead a balanced life. All of this can be achieved through my practice at T-Force Health with guaranteed privacy and anonymity on the clients time.
![Photo of Mackenzie Snortum - Enlightenment Psychiatry , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/015b210c-19de-4d1b-925e-a2d5df9a9afc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Enlightenment Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Park Rapids, MN 56470
The care you will receive will be about maintaining equilibrium between your physical, mental and spiritual self. Bodies and minds go together. If your mental wellness and physical wellness are not in equal states, your life will feel out of balance. This is where we hope to inspire you to be enlightened.
The care you will receive will be about maintaining equilibrium between your physical, mental and spiritual self. Bodies and minds go together. If your mental wellness and physical wellness are not in equal states, your life will feel out of balance. This is where we hope to inspire you to be enlightened.
![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 Stacy Spaeth, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/146fc2a9-84a7-426d-a613-cedde147a08c/7/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Spaeth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fergus Falls, MN 56537
I am Stacy, a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Brighter Days Mental Health where in person and telehealth appointments are offered. I am deeply passionate about psychiatry and am dedicated to helping you reach brighter days ahead.
I am Stacy, a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Brighter Days Mental Health where in person and telehealth appointments are offered. I am deeply passionate about psychiatry and am dedicated to helping you reach brighter days ahead.
![Photo of Jody Murphy, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/207fd6d8-de06-494a-86c0-93116fa1d1ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jody Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MN 55744 (Online Only)
I have been working in nursing since 2001. My approach is all about person-focused and evidence-based care, with a strong belief in the power of a great therapeutic alliance between us. As an autistic, nonbinary, queer psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring my big heart with a unique and personal touch to my practice.
I have been working in nursing since 2001. My approach is all about person-focused and evidence-based care, with a strong belief in the power of a great therapeutic alliance between us. As an autistic, nonbinary, queer psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring my big heart with a unique and personal touch to my practice.
![Photo of Julia Fiecke, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3c64116-70bf-41cf-b3bb-ccec9ab6cd33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Fiecke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Alexandria, MN 56308 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), I strive to provide safe and holistic care while being empathetic and having compassion for all of my patients. My goal is to educate and provide the best individualized care to each and every patient.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), I strive to provide safe and holistic care while being empathetic and having compassion for all of my patients. My goal is to educate and provide the best individualized care to each and every patient.
![Photo of Marsha Marie Nelson - Ace Mental Health, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45d40620-27d5-4393-a15e-7075cc1b435b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ace Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fergus Falls, MN 56537
Dr. Marsha Nelson Adams, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 25 years of health care experience. I believe in providing high-quality care that is built on caring relationships. I, prioritize your well-being above all else and am dedicated to providing you with the best care possible, tailored to meet your unique needs.
Dr. Marsha Nelson Adams, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 25 years of health care experience. I believe in providing high-quality care that is built on caring relationships. I, prioritize your well-being above all else and am dedicated to providing you with the best care possible, tailored to meet your unique needs.
![Photo of Bao Tran, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c86c2171-3886-4f03-b038-dbe9055d520a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is creating a safe environment with patient-centered care. I value open communication to build trust and create meaningful relationships with patients.
My approach is creating a safe environment with patient-centered care. I value open communication to build trust and create meaningful relationships with patients.
![Photo of Karen Webster, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba0c3065-f34d-427d-abdb-d17d687dc7c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. I can help!
Do you sometimes think "is this feeling normal"? Do you wonder why it is so difficult to concentrate, or why you are so easily distracted? Do you struggle with the motivation to "get up and go" each morning and find yourself irritable or tearful for no apparent reason? Having trouble sleeping because you can't seem to "shut off" your brain? Feeling anxious or on edge? Or is your child struggling in school due to lack of focus, concentration or impulsiveness? Is your child displaying disobedience at home and school? Is your teen more moody than the average teen? You don't need to navigate these challenges alone. I can help!
![Photo of Kristin Mary Sorensen, PMH-NP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6561203e-65e8-4562-a346-88ed01dab76e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Mary Sorensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
I appreciate the opportunity to work with children, adolescent and adult clients. I see clients via a privacy protected telemedicine-video conferencing platform (Telemedicine) and in person if preferred. I welcome those who are feeling down, anxious, having difficulty focusing or controlling behavior and those who are concerned with alcohol and drug use. If you have longstanding psychiatric concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, attention deficit and addictions, I will conduct a thorough review of medication and hospitalization history and together, we will create a unique plan of care for you.
I appreciate the opportunity to work with children, adolescent and adult clients. I see clients via a privacy protected telemedicine-video conferencing platform (Telemedicine) and in person if preferred. I welcome those who are feeling down, anxious, having difficulty focusing or controlling behavior and those who are concerned with alcohol and drug use. If you have longstanding psychiatric concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, attention deficit and addictions, I will conduct a thorough review of medication and hospitalization history and together, we will create a unique plan of care for you.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a389ca6-4aa3-4c6b-8246-1605fa7d3a1e/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/da91f2aa-055d-4be5-aa1b-4d0a8af6fac0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Bemidji, MN 56601
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 Angelica Stoltz, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/446013bb-74d3-4491-a3f2-d972c709d24f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angelica Stoltz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Mora, MN 55051 (Online Only)
Angelica, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner at Recovering Hope Treatment Center, empowers individuals seeking transformation and growth. With non-judgmental care, she helps clients grappling with mental health, behavioral health, and addiction find balance and reclaim their sense of self. Her dedication and empathy inspire hope, fostering resilience on the path to wellness.
Angelica, a compassionate Nurse Practitioner at Recovering Hope Treatment Center, empowers individuals seeking transformation and growth. With non-judgmental care, she helps clients grappling with mental health, behavioral health, and addiction find balance and reclaim their sense of self. Her dedication and empathy inspire hope, fostering resilience on the path to wellness.
![Photo of Roxanne Dobrava, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0218316-9e78-4d8f-9179-5c61073bed91/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roxanne Dobrava
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clear Lake, MN 55319 (Online Only)
Hey you! How is life? Is life sometimes too much to handle? Are you ready to put in the work to build a life that is all that you imagine it to be? I am here to help you. If you have a concern or challenge you are facing, I will do my best to help you work through this. I am available to provide a neutral look into your life and assist with medication management and psychotherapy. I would also be willing to give you evidence-based scientific recommendations on daily lifestyle changes that may help.
Hey you! How is life? Is life sometimes too much to handle? Are you ready to put in the work to build a life that is all that you imagine it to be? I am here to help you. If you have a concern or challenge you are facing, I will do my best to help you work through this. I am available to provide a neutral look into your life and assist with medication management and psychotherapy. I would also be willing to give you evidence-based scientific recommendations on daily lifestyle changes that may help.
See more therapy options for Wadena
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Wadena, MN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Wadena, MN who prioritize treating:
Average years in practice
4 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Wadena, MN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Wadena?
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.