Psychiatrists in Union, MO
![Photo of Megan Robison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/845d772c-f133-4c00-b3ea-51bc61d49824/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Robison is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner, a Post-Masters certification - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Bachelor of arts degree - Sociology/Anthropology with a minor in music. Megan's primary focus is on the diagnosis and management of psychiatric conditions with an emphasis on pharmacologic intervention. Outside of work, Megan enjoys rock climbing, hiking, gaming (board and video), terrible puns, trying new foods, and anything outdoors.
Megan Robison is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner, a Post-Masters certification - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Bachelor of arts degree - Sociology/Anthropology with a minor in music. Megan's primary focus is on the diagnosis and management of psychiatric conditions with an emphasis on pharmacologic intervention. Outside of work, Megan enjoys rock climbing, hiking, gaming (board and video), terrible puns, trying new foods, and anything outdoors.
![Photo of Jennifer McMahan, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cb71d88-f877-4467-8afa-6799f6d3cb2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer, McMahan, MSN, PMHNP-BC received her masters degree in Nursing from Walden University in 2020 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017 from Excelsior College. Jennifer works with adults with a wide range of disorders and symptoms including anxiety, depression, anger, grief/loss, bipolar, trauma, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. She uses a holistic and integrative approach to therapy which includes different techniques based on each clients unique personality and needs.
Jennifer, McMahan, MSN, PMHNP-BC received her masters degree in Nursing from Walden University in 2020 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017 from Excelsior College. Jennifer works with adults with a wide range of disorders and symptoms including anxiety, depression, anger, grief/loss, bipolar, trauma, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. She uses a holistic and integrative approach to therapy which includes different techniques based on each clients unique personality and needs.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Mary Weiss, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac11e1f6-7438-48d2-9a2d-a8063df85f46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mary Weiss is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Weiss approaches patients with empathy and respect. She primarily manages medications but may also incorporate therapy modalities. Dr. Weiss enjoys mystery books, word puzzles, and spending time with family.
Dr. Mary Weiss is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Weiss approaches patients with empathy and respect. She primarily manages medications but may also incorporate therapy modalities. Dr. Weiss enjoys mystery books, word puzzles, and spending time with family.
![Photo of Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/317da505-1ff9-4c1b-9fde-d83c717c3a4c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63103
The most gratifying thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life. There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness. I’m a proud member of the Provident Behavioral Health team, an agency that offers not only psychiatric services but also counseling and crisis services. I currently offer telemental health appointments for Missouri residents, making services accessible and convenient for you.
The most gratifying thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life. There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness. I’m a proud member of the Provident Behavioral Health team, an agency that offers not only psychiatric services but also counseling and crisis services. I currently offer telemental health appointments for Missouri residents, making services accessible and convenient for you.
![Photo of Celeste Herleth, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1845f9c0-99b2-484d-93c6-18d053c38567/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Herleth is passionate about providing evidence-based treatment and care with compassion and empathy. She has years of expertise treating eating disorders, anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. She works collaboratively with other providers including dietitians, therapists, and primary care doctors to provide seamless, integrated care.
Dr. Herleth is passionate about providing evidence-based treatment and care with compassion and empathy. She has years of expertise treating eating disorders, anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. She works collaboratively with other providers including dietitians, therapists, and primary care doctors to provide seamless, integrated care.
![Photo of Ann Chartrand, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46770456-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Chartrand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
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."
![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 Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27e996ec-fc65-4e38-a98b-2cf9ef4514fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
![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 James Mikolajczak, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1d22cc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I strongly believe a good psychotherapy experience is based on a good healthy connection between the patient and therapist. Within this relationship the two can both explore the internal and external world in which the patient lives. The internal world arises from both present and past experiences. An understanding of these worlds and the conflicts within these worlds, leads to an easing of the patient's symptoms and an improved resilience to handle life's events. Lasting results come gradually in psychotherapy. I offer meeting with a patient to listen and discuss one's history. I will provide my assessment of some of the important life experiences and make a recommendation of what treatment I might offer to relieve symptoms. As a physician, I offer medication management along with psychotherapy.
I treat children, adolescents, and adults in psychotherapy and medical psychotherapy.
I strongly believe a good psychotherapy experience is based on a good healthy connection between the patient and therapist. Within this relationship the two can both explore the internal and external world in which the patient lives. The internal world arises from both present and past experiences. An understanding of these worlds and the conflicts within these worlds, leads to an easing of the patient's symptoms and an improved resilience to handle life's events. Lasting results come gradually in psychotherapy. I offer meeting with a patient to listen and discuss one's history. I will provide my assessment of some of the important life experiences and make a recommendation of what treatment I might offer to relieve symptoms. As a physician, I offer medication management along with psychotherapy.
I treat children, adolescents, and adults in psychotherapy and medical psychotherapy.
![Photo of Samantha Saale, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52da6f54-e5f1-4dec-8957-eb3e70213b97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Saale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I offer mental health services to patients aged 6 and up, including medication management and psychoeducation in collaboration with Dr. Thomas Nowotny. I am certified to treat a range of psychiatric illness including, but not limited to; anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, & neurocognitive disorders. I am committed to helping my patients achieve optimal mental health and wellness. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, don't hesitate to reach out to me.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I offer mental health services to patients aged 6 and up, including medication management and psychoeducation in collaboration with Dr. Thomas Nowotny. I am certified to treat a range of psychiatric illness including, but not limited to; anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, & neurocognitive disorders. I am committed to helping my patients achieve optimal mental health and wellness. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, don't hesitate to reach out to me.
![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 Mary Bauer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3cf0bb7-b5d3-451d-a0ba-4349a22b524e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Bauer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376 (Online Only)
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 Jennifer Dawn Becker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dafe311-0553-445a-95c0-81f78cd2f977/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Dawn Becker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63103
Waitlist for new clients
I chose this profession to directly improve the lives of people with acute and chronic mental health disorders, to help increase awareness of mental health, and be a voice providing education on managing and treating common mental health problems. I desire to be a good mental health advocate and am very passionate about reducing the stigma of mental health. I find it an honor and privilege to help improve the quality of life of my clients. I believe in listening, empowering, understanding, and providing them with the assistance, individualized care, and nurturing to improve their quality of life.
I chose this profession to directly improve the lives of people with acute and chronic mental health disorders, to help increase awareness of mental health, and be a voice providing education on managing and treating common mental health problems. I desire to be a good mental health advocate and am very passionate about reducing the stigma of mental health. I find it an honor and privilege to help improve the quality of life of my clients. I believe in listening, empowering, understanding, and providing them with the assistance, individualized care, and nurturing to improve their quality of life.
![Photo of J. J. Jones, DNP, PMHNP-C, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc62ff78-a191-4ae6-aae9-0f0c3815fee8/2/320x400.jpeg)
J. J. Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101
As a board-certified nurse practitioner in both adult medicine (ANP) and psychiatric and mental health (PMHNP), I bring over 30 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field. My journey has been characterized by a profound commitment to fostering healthier relationships and improving the quality of life for my patients. My extensive background has equipped me with a unique perspective that bridges physical and mental health, allowing for a holistic approach to patient care.
As a board-certified nurse practitioner in both adult medicine (ANP) and psychiatric and mental health (PMHNP), I bring over 30 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field. My journey has been characterized by a profound commitment to fostering healthier relationships and improving the quality of life for my patients. My extensive background has equipped me with a unique perspective that bridges physical and mental health, allowing for a holistic approach to patient care.
![Photo of Ashok Yanamadala, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53958d7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice, I strive to care for patients who are seeking guidance in their path to improve their mental health. The needs of my patients vary significantly, but they share the goal of wanting to lead happy and healthy lives. People approach the problems they face in a multitude of ways, and the mission of my organization is to understand each patient’s unique starting point and work with them to get them where they want to be. I understand that no two patients can be treated exactly the same and that personal factors have to be considered to deliver quality care.
In my practice, I strive to care for patients who are seeking guidance in their path to improve their mental health. The needs of my patients vary significantly, but they share the goal of wanting to lead happy and healthy lives. People approach the problems they face in a multitude of ways, and the mission of my organization is to understand each patient’s unique starting point and work with them to get them where they want to be. I understand that no two patients can be treated exactly the same and that personal factors have to be considered to deliver quality care.
![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 Shelah Radke, MD, JD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfd61ee5-0843-409b-b6f8-36b1305bb476/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help clients with the diagnosis and treatment of a plethora of concerns, including (but not limited to) emotional, developmental, behavioral, and mental disorders of childhood and adolescence. I work with my clients to understand what their needs and goals are, and together we use this information to develop a personalized treatment plan. This approach empowers my clients to take an active role in their own care and can lead to more positive outcomes and greater overall satisfaction with the treatment process.
I help clients with the diagnosis and treatment of a plethora of concerns, including (but not limited to) emotional, developmental, behavioral, and mental disorders of childhood and adolescence. I work with my clients to understand what their needs and goals are, and together we use this information to develop a personalized treatment plan. This approach empowers my clients to take an active role in their own care and can lead to more positive outcomes and greater overall satisfaction with the treatment process.
![Photo of Emily Mukherji, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45242933-0dc6-4977-8a4f-2aaa2cec5b71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Mukherji is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She completed medical school and psychiatry residency in Boston, MA. Emily likes to get to know her clients well and provide thoughtful psychopharmacological treatment for their psychiatric disorders. Outside of work, Emily loves reading, walking her dog, and spending time with her family.
Emily Mukherji is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She completed medical school and psychiatry residency in Boston, MA. Emily likes to get to know her clients well and provide thoughtful psychopharmacological treatment for their psychiatric disorders. Outside of work, Emily loves reading, walking her dog, and spending time with her family.
See more therapy options for Union
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Union, MO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Union, MO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Grief |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Union, MO see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Union?
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.