Psychiatrists in Ballwin, MO
![Photo of Angela Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9609ff81-e9a6-409a-8baf-4919c4edea4f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
I enjoy providing my patients with a therapeutic, non-judgmental environment in which they can feel heard and understood. One cannot heal in an environment where they continue to feel shame for symptoms or past experiences, so I do my best to put patients' minds at ease while we develop a strong therapeutic relationship.
I enjoy providing my patients with a therapeutic, non-judgmental environment in which they can feel heard and understood. One cannot heal in an environment where they continue to feel shame for symptoms or past experiences, so I do my best to put patients' minds at ease while we develop a strong therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Ajit Trikha, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4690a46b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Helping You Get Healthy With over 25 years of psychiatric experience, I understand how to work with my patients to ensure they receive the best care possible. My thoughtful and personalized approach means I'm fully committed to the health and well-being of all my patients. Treatment for a complete spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders include Depressive and Bipolar disorders, Psychotic disorders, Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, Stress disorders, Addiction disorders, Personality disorders, Eating disorders, Dual diagnosis, Adult Hyperactivity Disorder, Grief, Bereavement, and Anger management. DATA-Certified Physician eligible to provide buprenorphine (Suboxone) treatment for opioid dependency.
Helping You Get Healthy With over 25 years of psychiatric experience, I understand how to work with my patients to ensure they receive the best care possible. My thoughtful and personalized approach means I'm fully committed to the health and well-being of all my patients. Treatment for a complete spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders include Depressive and Bipolar disorders, Psychotic disorders, Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, Stress disorders, Addiction disorders, Personality disorders, Eating disorders, Dual diagnosis, Adult Hyperactivity Disorder, Grief, Bereavement, and Anger management. DATA-Certified Physician eligible to provide buprenorphine (Suboxone) treatment for opioid dependency.
![Photo of Dr. Michelle Hill, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ab12129-7b32-4fe3-a102-249ed52a45e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michelle Hill received her medical degree from A. T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, MO. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. She served honorably in the Army for 8 years before working as a civilian in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Hill is board certified in General Psychiatry. She is also a member of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians.
Dr. Michelle Hill received her medical degree from A. T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, MO. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. She served honorably in the Army for 8 years before working as a civilian in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Hill is board certified in General Psychiatry. She is also a member of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians.
![Photo of Haley Koepp, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcc683b1-4b07-4ea7-9fc6-f8c335a55636/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Haley Koepp is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2018. She holds a Bachelor's degree in pPychology from Webster University and a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Barnes-Jewish Goldfarb School of Nursing. She also holds a Master's degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Purdue University Global. Dr. Koepp treats acute and chronic mental health disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings and all ages of the lifespan.
Dr. Haley Koepp is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2018. She holds a Bachelor's degree in pPychology from Webster University and a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Barnes-Jewish Goldfarb School of Nursing. She also holds a Master's degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Purdue University Global. Dr. Koepp treats acute and chronic mental health disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings and all ages of the lifespan.
![Photo of Katie Padberg, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7547d895-e7bc-42b9-ae0c-869a88d7aade/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am so happy you are here! It takes courage to reach out for help. You don't have to feel this way forever. Valuable mental healthcare means feeling understood and supported, while continuously moving forward towards improved mental health. I understand how challenging it can be to find the right provider that really listens and fosters a nonjudgemental, welcoming environment. I would be honored to be that person for you.
I am so happy you are here! It takes courage to reach out for help. You don't have to feel this way forever. Valuable mental healthcare means feeling understood and supported, while continuously moving forward towards improved mental health. I understand how challenging it can be to find the right provider that really listens and fosters a nonjudgemental, welcoming environment. I would be honored to be that person for you.
![Photo of Anna Tran, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d689405b-5981-499d-938a-979d93d49e64/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Tran is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University with honors, a Bachelor Science in Nursing from Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College, and a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from Saint Louis University. Anna’s inherent desire is to serve individuals by inspiring and assisting them in making lasting changes in their lives and personifying their purposes in the world.
Anna Tran is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University with honors, a Bachelor Science in Nursing from Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College, and a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from Saint Louis University. Anna’s inherent desire is to serve individuals by inspiring and assisting them in making lasting changes in their lives and personifying their purposes in the world.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36ae85a8-c4a1-4e56-abf4-ee7775817498/1/320x400.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 Venita Ninemire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9949a94-1e6c-488d-9655-1d962a0fc1f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Venita Ninemire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63021 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c628941f-5167-44d9-859a-ad6ad3fb03cf/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 Courtney Haas - Aspire Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dce8d98-29db-4f02-aeec-48af57f76af4/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are looking for quality psychiatric medication management services, then Aspire Wellness is the right center for you! We are accepting new patients 18 years and older through telehealth. Our goal is to provide high quality healthcare services to improve overall wellbeing. Our team will support you along the way and work together to connect you with the treament and services you need.
If you are looking for quality psychiatric medication management services, then Aspire Wellness is the right center for you! We are accepting new patients 18 years and older through telehealth. Our goal is to provide high quality healthcare services to improve overall wellbeing. Our team will support you along the way and work together to connect you with the treament and services you need.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Everyone deserves to live a life that is exciting and stress free, this would be the ideal for us all, however life is about ups and downs, so we must learn how to manage the ups and the downs. As a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and human, l have my own story and we all have our story. Our past is important because it defines what we have been through, however, we cannot make any change to the past. The present is more important than the past and we can make changes. The future remains the most important of all three, change is required for success. As a patient, you must show up, you must want personal growth and healing,
Everyone deserves to live a life that is exciting and stress free, this would be the ideal for us all, however life is about ups and downs, so we must learn how to manage the ups and the downs. As a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and human, l have my own story and we all have our story. Our past is important because it defines what we have been through, however, we cannot make any change to the past. The present is more important than the past and we can make changes. The future remains the most important of all three, change is required for success. As a patient, you must show up, you must want personal growth and healing,
![Photo of Moses Tabe Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7009bbfa-153a-4c13-acd2-d3a9c3d3527c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
![Photo of Jordan Malone, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2784c18d-5cd6-4504-90e4-57e9c4cfed0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Malone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141 (Online Only)
Jordan Malone is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She treats adults 18 and up for various mental health concerns with medication management. To optimize treatment, genetic screening is offered. Jordan is passionate and dedicated in assisting patients meet their personalized goals as they continue their journey to healing.
Jordan Malone is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She treats adults 18 and up for various mental health concerns with medication management. To optimize treatment, genetic screening is offered. Jordan is passionate and dedicated in assisting patients meet their personalized goals as they continue their journey to healing.
![Photo of Meredith Throop, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e72227ef-39b0-48a6-8cc8-e687daefa65e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Throop is expanding her current private practice and will be primarily telemedicine based. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
Dr. Throop is expanding her current private practice and will be primarily telemedicine based. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
![Photo of Tamara Runge, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b0889b6-2833-4e5c-b75c-c3a5bbbff6dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients' unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri. She also has the ability to see patients from home via telehealth services.
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients' unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri. She also has the ability to see patients from home via telehealth services.
![Photo of Arturo Calvo Taca - INSynergy, MD, ABAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35e6365f-730e-43cb-8cde-223969ef3917/3/320x400.jpeg)
INSynergy...the Premier Addiction Program in St. Louis, Missouri. Staffed by experts in Addiction Medicine. INSynergy is a non-12 Step, 3 or 6 month, outpatient, substance abuse treatment program implementing innovative technologies to treat addiction and its related conditions such as: mood disorders, pain disorders, sleep disorders. Highly personalized program designed for motivated professionals, students, and individuals that expect only the highest level of concierge medical service to maintain successful lifestyles.
INSynergy...the Premier Addiction Program in St. Louis, Missouri. Staffed by experts in Addiction Medicine. INSynergy is a non-12 Step, 3 or 6 month, outpatient, substance abuse treatment program implementing innovative technologies to treat addiction and its related conditions such as: mood disorders, pain disorders, sleep disorders. Highly personalized program designed for motivated professionals, students, and individuals that expect only the highest level of concierge medical service to maintain successful lifestyles.
![Photo of Ivy Alwell, APRN,BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a991394-b375-4995-9bc9-c4c6550f860f/2/320x400.png)
My approach is holistic, integrative, and collaborative. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medical management with supportive psychotherapy. I use evidence based practice guidelines with the goals of helping the patient achieve symptom management, improve their level of functioning, attain and sustain body-mind health and wellness.
My approach is holistic, integrative, and collaborative. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medical management with supportive psychotherapy. I use evidence based practice guidelines with the goals of helping the patient achieve symptom management, improve their level of functioning, attain and sustain body-mind health and wellness.
![Photo of Susan Dawson, EdD , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d640a7f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Dawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD , PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
High Ridge, MO 63049
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, in practice for over 25yrs. I have served as a Professor, Dean and Director of nursing programs. My passion is in helping people in need of substantial management of mental health issues. Helping patients with addiction and adult psychiatry issues is essential for the success of those in these situations. I'm looking forward to serving patients who are ready to deal with their mental health issues, head on. If you need a provider who cares, believes in being honest and trustworthy consider care here is the place.
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, in practice for over 25yrs. I have served as a Professor, Dean and Director of nursing programs. My passion is in helping people in need of substantial management of mental health issues. Helping patients with addiction and adult psychiatry issues is essential for the success of those in these situations. I'm looking forward to serving patients who are ready to deal with their mental health issues, head on. If you need a provider who cares, believes in being honest and trustworthy consider care here is the place.
![Photo of Brenda Bush - Innovative Mental Health Services, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92780f72-0b75-4684-9c84-d2cb78e3d9ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Innovative Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141 (Online Only)
Brenda Bush is a dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Her focus is Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care Adult medicine. Brenda has been a nurse for 28 years and a Nurse Practitioner for 15 years. Her practitioner education is from Indiana Wesleyan University- Marion, Indiana and University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has a collaborative practice in St. Louis and surrounding cities in Mo. and is also licensed in Arizona, Kansas and Virgina. Her goal is to partner with you to create a treatment plan that improves your mental and physical health, enhancing your quality of life.
Brenda Bush is a dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Her focus is Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care Adult medicine. Brenda has been a nurse for 28 years and a Nurse Practitioner for 15 years. Her practitioner education is from Indiana Wesleyan University- Marion, Indiana and University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has a collaborative practice in St. Louis and surrounding cities in Mo. and is also licensed in Arizona, Kansas and Virgina. Her goal is to partner with you to create a treatment plan that improves your mental and physical health, enhancing your quality of life.
![Photo of Cassandra Turner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e32149-e9df-4480-abda-ec74dadc9964/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
See more therapy options for Ballwin
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ballwin, MO
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Ballwin, MO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Medication Management |
70% | Grief |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Ballwin, MO see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
89% | Female | |
11% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ballwin?
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.