Psychiatrists in Villa Ridge, MO
![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.
![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.
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 Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Treatment Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e711a9d-28e9-4d58-9740-c3e5fa94b257/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Allied Treatment Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303 (Online Only)
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
![Photo of Michelle Garrett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9463fce-e136-4dc1-8093-dedf62197581/1/320x400.png)
As a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Serenity Health, I am passionate about providing compassionate, individualized care. With a holistic approach, I address each patient's unique needs, offering support through therapy and medication management. My goal is to foster a safe, empathetic environment where patients feel heard and empowered on their journey to mental wellness. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals and improving your quality of life.
As a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Serenity Health, I am passionate about providing compassionate, individualized care. With a holistic approach, I address each patient's unique needs, offering support through therapy and medication management. My goal is to foster a safe, empathetic environment where patients feel heard and empowered on their journey to mental wellness. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals and improving your quality of life.
![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 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.
![Photo of Rebecca Palmer, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ed8c221-354b-4ca9-801d-408a64d4d270/2/320x400.jpeg)
I truly believe patients should be treated based on their individual circumstances, as we all face different challenges and have unique needs. I feel that in order to achieve optimal mental health, patients should be included in determining goals for treatment and fully understand their treatment plan. I'll always take the time to talk through your symptoms and situation, discuss options, and ensure you understand the "why" and "what to expect" when any change to your treatment is made.
I truly believe patients should be treated based on their individual circumstances, as we all face different challenges and have unique needs. I feel that in order to achieve optimal mental health, patients should be included in determining goals for treatment and fully understand their treatment plan. I'll always take the time to talk through your symptoms and situation, discuss options, and ensure you understand the "why" and "what to expect" when any change to your treatment is made.
![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 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 Deidra Thompson - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f88bbae-7145-44b3-bbff-be98fe9700f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63133 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Alexander B. Rose, MD, MPHS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00b04224-de58-4b76-a04c-cdeebf3eed4e/3/320x400.jpeg)
WAIT TIME: ≤ 2-4 weeks | REQUEST VISIT BY VISITING MY WEBSITE (www.veritas-psych.com) AND/OR EMAILING ME. | Dr. Rose is a forensic psychiatrist providing both clinical and medical-legal services. His approach begins by taking ample time to obtain a thorough understanding of who you are as a person from a variety of perspectives. He values making sure that every patient is informed and understands the meaning behind every diagnosis and the reasons for why certain treatments are recommended over others. Initial patient contact via my website or email is required. Phone calls are intended for existing patients (or attorneys) only.
WAIT TIME: ≤ 2-4 weeks | REQUEST VISIT BY VISITING MY WEBSITE (www.veritas-psych.com) AND/OR EMAILING ME. | Dr. Rose is a forensic psychiatrist providing both clinical and medical-legal services. His approach begins by taking ample time to obtain a thorough understanding of who you are as a person from a variety of perspectives. He values making sure that every patient is informed and understands the meaning behind every diagnosis and the reasons for why certain treatments are recommended over others. Initial patient contact via my website or email is required. Phone calls are intended for existing patients (or attorneys) only.
![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 Rachel Kranz, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e56bbdd-e769-4863-8a39-9ec4c7f195a6/2/320x400.png)
Rachel Kranz is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master s Degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2018 and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University in 2013.
Rachel Kranz is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master s Degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2018 and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University in 2013.
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 Jordan Calabrese, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84b55b79-78e4-44c4-babb-f4de398f16dc/1/320x400.png)
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
![Photo of Hj Bains, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6263be46-a236-4439-a6aa-2af61e2ea99d/3/320x400.jpeg)
We are an advanced mental health clinic specializing in Depression ,PTSD and Anxiety disorders. We have been providing care for Veterans,Active duty personnel and military families for the last 20 years.
We are an advanced mental health clinic specializing in Depression ,PTSD and Anxiety disorders. We have been providing care for Veterans,Active duty personnel and military families for the last 20 years.
![Photo of Chido Zvirawa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87111a86-1903-4678-be73-f2e0a12a34c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chido, is a dual nurse practitioner in Family and psychiatric mental health specializing in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals, with a passion for promoting mental well-being. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. Chido has been a nurse for 14 years and 6 years as a nurse practitioner for 6 years.
Chido, is a dual nurse practitioner in Family and psychiatric mental health specializing in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals, with a passion for promoting mental well-being. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. Chido has been a nurse for 14 years and 6 years as a nurse practitioner for 6 years.
![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
Saint Peters, MO 63376 (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. 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.
See more therapy options for Villa Ridge
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Villa Ridge, MO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Villa Ridge, 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 Villa Ridge, 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 Villa Ridge?
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.