Psychiatrists in Columbia, MO
![Photo of Jessica Nittler, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c60eee4e-2751-419d-871b-ee4d682f5d15/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in seeing clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder and helping find medications that can treat their symptoms.
I specialize in seeing clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder and helping find medications that can treat their symptoms.
![Photo of Aisha Ahmouda, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86b9d21c-fb7b-4b83-a431-0cffbb791bb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I use my skills and time optimally to maximize my therapeutic affect on patients. I prioritize taking the time to establish a good rapport. I tend to a patient's psychological health needs, as well as physical health needs, maintaining a holistic approach. Providing quality care, to me, is about spending my day, from start to finish, making a patient's care experience excellent. This philosophy coincides with my personal goal to maintain a high level of intrinsic motivation to do more than just the minimum required of me, each and every day.
As a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I use my skills and time optimally to maximize my therapeutic affect on patients. I prioritize taking the time to establish a good rapport. I tend to a patient's psychological health needs, as well as physical health needs, maintaining a holistic approach. Providing quality care, to me, is about spending my day, from start to finish, making a patient's care experience excellent. This philosophy coincides with my personal goal to maintain a high level of intrinsic motivation to do more than just the minimum required of me, each and every day.
![Photo of Suzanne Opperman, MSN, CADC, CCTP-II, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/045b1e41-58f8-484a-9378-dac4936c865e/1/320x400.png)
Suzanne Opperman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CADC, CCTP-II, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
I focus on providing safe interactive discussions of self evaluation and learning. Rational Emotive Therapy (REBT) is a method of seeing how your thinking leads to your emotions, which can lead to your anxiety and other behaviors. NURSING burnout, workplace violence coaching. Evaluating your past, where your emotions come from, and how those old emotions lead to what you say, do and how you feel now. People don't realize there were past traumatic events in their life. Sometimes people think their younger life was "normal" After learning what/when creates you to become anxious, there are reasons why. I currently do not prescribe.
I focus on providing safe interactive discussions of self evaluation and learning. Rational Emotive Therapy (REBT) is a method of seeing how your thinking leads to your emotions, which can lead to your anxiety and other behaviors. NURSING burnout, workplace violence coaching. Evaluating your past, where your emotions come from, and how those old emotions lead to what you say, do and how you feel now. People don't realize there were past traumatic events in their life. Sometimes people think their younger life was "normal" After learning what/when creates you to become anxious, there are reasons why. I currently do not prescribe.
![Photo of Brandon Brewer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d370c983-741c-43be-ada0-db854c9958df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW patients! I am a physician psychiatrist with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. This means that I have a well-rounded view of the various factors influencing your mental health. I evaluate and treat mental health issues in children, adolescents and adults. I conduct short psychotherapy sessions during encounters with my patients. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
Accepting NEW patients! I am a physician psychiatrist with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. This means that I have a well-rounded view of the various factors influencing your mental health. I evaluate and treat mental health issues in children, adolescents and adults. I conduct short psychotherapy sessions during encounters with my patients. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
![Photo of Jerilyn Brown, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2191a971-3d8d-4f0c-949b-675e031fc527/1/320x400.png)
Jerilyn Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
I am accepting new patients. Are you depressed, anxious, having panic attacks, stressed out, have trouble concentrating or trouble sleeping? Are people around you telling you that you are easily irritated? You don't have to keep suffering. I can help you by providing a full psychiatric evaluation and offering medication management with brief therapy. I do this with empathy and compassion.
I am accepting new patients. Are you depressed, anxious, having panic attacks, stressed out, have trouble concentrating or trouble sleeping? Are people around you telling you that you are easily irritated? You don't have to keep suffering. I can help you by providing a full psychiatric evaluation and offering medication management with brief therapy. I do this with empathy and compassion.
![Photo of Brandyn Patel, PA-C, CAQPsyc, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d63a1bf5-2b4b-472a-9f95-76911a028aa7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm Brandyn, a Psychiatric Physician Assistant, specializing in medication management. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, depression that makes every day feel like a battle, PTSD that haunts your peace of mind, or Borderline Personality Disorder that makes relationships and self-understanding feel like a constant challenge—I’m here to help. I understand how difficult it can be to navigate these challenges, and I want you to know that you're not alone. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can begin to explore and address the issues that are holding you back.
Hello! I'm Brandyn, a Psychiatric Physician Assistant, specializing in medication management. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, depression that makes every day feel like a battle, PTSD that haunts your peace of mind, or Borderline Personality Disorder that makes relationships and self-understanding feel like a constant challenge—I’m here to help. I understand how difficult it can be to navigate these challenges, and I want you to know that you're not alone. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can begin to explore and address the issues that are holding you back.
![Photo of Femi Popoola, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b5f347b-4f5c-47d1-8dd4-ed83044f227d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
![Photo of Dr. Evan Buckmiller, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3709f70-ab6c-4af3-9f1d-e0180f336bbe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry is my passion. By helping you overcome your mental health symptoms with medication management, I can support you in getting back to living a healthy and balanced lifestyle. You deserve it.
Psychiatry is my passion. By helping you overcome your mental health symptoms with medication management, I can support you in getting back to living a healthy and balanced lifestyle. You deserve it.
![Photo of Rasha Elkady, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d62e1d0d-6e86-4f66-bdfa-107311ac1e07/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been enjoying my work in psychiatry for the past 15 years and I wanted to provide a new and unique service to patients. I provide weekend and afternoon online appointments from the comfort of your own home. The importance of mental health cannot be stressed enough so why make it such a hassle to see a psychiatrist? At one simple click of a button, you can see a psychiatrist and receive a diagnosis tailored just for you. Times are changing, let’s make life easy.
I have been enjoying my work in psychiatry for the past 15 years and I wanted to provide a new and unique service to patients. I provide weekend and afternoon online appointments from the comfort of your own home. The importance of mental health cannot be stressed enough so why make it such a hassle to see a psychiatrist? At one simple click of a button, you can see a psychiatrist and receive a diagnosis tailored just for you. Times are changing, let’s make life easy.
![Photo of Amanda Kingston - Brave Counseling & Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/694cd505-d07e-4563-afd4-a62a727797ad/1/320x400.png)
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
![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.
15 Second Videos
Rasha Elkady
Morgan Alexander
Venita Ninemire
Chenhang Zou
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
![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
Columbia, MO 65203 (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 Mary Bauer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3cf0bb7-b5d3-451d-a0ba-4349a22b524e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am licensed as Nurse Practitioner (NP) in MO (primary), KS, and MN. While I hold dual certifications in adult primary care and psychiatric mental health as an NP, my focus lies within the broad landscape of mental health. Cognitive behavioral approaches to mental/behavioral health care underscores, informs, and amplifies my skills as a clinician. Likewise, exploration and of practice of lifestyle behaviors are key to optimizing the health of the whole person.
Hello! I am licensed as Nurse Practitioner (NP) in MO (primary), KS, and MN. While I hold dual certifications in adult primary care and psychiatric mental health as an NP, my focus lies within the broad landscape of mental health. Cognitive behavioral approaches to mental/behavioral health care underscores, informs, and amplifies my skills as a clinician. Likewise, exploration and of practice of lifestyle behaviors are key to optimizing the health of the whole person.
![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 Sarah Fese Taylor - Complete Health Clinic, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b82fd822-cb96-4916-8e63-3ffc90946afc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Complete Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
![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
Columbia, MO 65201
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 Ann Chartrand, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46770456-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that all patients should be respected and actively participate in treatment plans, and properly educating my patients leads to better outcomes. Optimal mental health involves all aspects of an individual and not simply medication management. Every person leaving my office will know how, why and what we are doing to try to help him/her feel better and be healthier. I enjoy working with adults motivated to improve their mental health. My practice is informal and relaxed, designed to reduce "white coat" anxiety and stigma toward mental health treatment. I like to call it "Psychiatry with Personality."
I believe that all patients should be respected and actively participate in treatment plans, and properly educating my patients leads to better outcomes. Optimal mental health involves all aspects of an individual and not simply medication management. Every person leaving my office will know how, why and what we are doing to try to help him/her feel better and be healthier. I enjoy working with adults motivated to improve their mental health. My practice is informal and relaxed, designed to reduce "white coat" anxiety and stigma toward mental health treatment. I like to call it "Psychiatry with Personality."
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Enos Moss, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d4027b2-024b-4225-808a-63083886f978/1/320x400.png)
EJ is a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has been with Lifestance Health since January 2020. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2001, and obtained his Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2011. In 2016, he received his post-master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. He is currently a Doctor of Nursing Practice candidate at Capella University and plans to complete his studies in 2023.
EJ is a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has been with Lifestance Health since January 2020. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2001, and obtained his Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2011. In 2016, he received his post-master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. He is currently a Doctor of Nursing Practice candidate at Capella University and plans to complete his studies in 2023.
See more therapy options for Columbia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Columbia, MO
10+
Average cost per session
$162
Psychiatrists in Columbia, MO who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Sleep or Insomnia |
63% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Columbia, MO see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Columbia?
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.