Psychiatrists in Bigfork, MT
![Photo of Lauren Coley, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b647084-69da-4ea5-93db-443ae970ffb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Coley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Bigfork, MT 59911 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Lauren, and I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am based out of Bigfork, MT and, at this time, offering Telehealth services only. I have years of experience as an RN, and inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience doing psychiatric assessments and medication management for patients ranging in age from 5 years to 95 years old. I like to take time to get to know my patients to figure out the basis of their mental health concerns. I offer a holistic approach to treatment which includes medication management and psychotherapy combined.
Hello! My name is Lauren, and I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am based out of Bigfork, MT and, at this time, offering Telehealth services only. I have years of experience as an RN, and inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience doing psychiatric assessments and medication management for patients ranging in age from 5 years to 95 years old. I like to take time to get to know my patients to figure out the basis of their mental health concerns. I offer a holistic approach to treatment which includes medication management and psychotherapy combined.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Beverly Reader, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b020a6f-4cac-45b0-ac88-2817da1dcf4e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with a wide array of interests and skills, including psychedelic medicines such as Ketamine for the use of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I have completed level one training in Internal Family Systems, or IFS. IFS can be done effectively virtually or in person, with or without psychedelic medicine, and eventually, on one's own without the help of a therapist. It is a transformational, deep healing of the wounded/burdened parts of our inner children that affect how we live and relate to the world as adults, often resulting in self-sabotage.
I am a psychiatrist with a wide array of interests and skills, including psychedelic medicines such as Ketamine for the use of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I have completed level one training in Internal Family Systems, or IFS. IFS can be done effectively virtually or in person, with or without psychedelic medicine, and eventually, on one's own without the help of a therapist. It is a transformational, deep healing of the wounded/burdened parts of our inner children that affect how we live and relate to the world as adults, often resulting in self-sabotage.
![Photo of Jessica Rivera, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/282a1eee-c833-4f62-82fa-b0ebb1393ead/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802 (Online Only)
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
Welcome to Desert Creek Mental Health. I'm Jessica, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and use a variety of evidence-based approaches to meet the needs of my patients in order to achieve a high quality of life. I have steered my practice away from the modern model of short appointments that make you feel rushed and unimportant. I see a limited number of patients each day so that I have the time to get to know you and gain a deeper understanding of what you are experiencing, so together we can come to the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan.
![Photo of Jen Buscher, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d9453fc-b9cc-4d59-b136-5411461f0213/1/320x400.png)
Jen Buscher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalispell, MT 59901
Now accepting new patients! As a PMHNP proudly serving with Luvita, I am dedicated to fostering mental wellness within Montana communities. With a robust foundation in medical education & enriched by my experiences as a mother & a leader, I bring a distinct & empathetic perspective to my practice. Specializing in pediatric & perinatal psychiatry, I extend my support to children, adolescents, & women grappling with a spectrum of mental health challenges, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, postpartum depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder.
Now accepting new patients! As a PMHNP proudly serving with Luvita, I am dedicated to fostering mental wellness within Montana communities. With a robust foundation in medical education & enriched by my experiences as a mother & a leader, I bring a distinct & empathetic perspective to my practice. Specializing in pediatric & perinatal psychiatry, I extend my support to children, adolescents, & women grappling with a spectrum of mental health challenges, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, postpartum depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Kathleen Johnson - Psychiatry 360, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4df5674-14ee-4d35-a948-3a5c896558df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry 360
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802 (Online Only)
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
Online new client & Saturday appointments available! If you are experiencing concerns of anxiety, depression, substance dependence, ADHD, autism or PTSD, I am here to support you. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer psychiatric services and mental health support as part of a complete treatment plan that includes nutrition, nootropics, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. It is my passion to support you in identifying the cause of the challenges you are experiencing and work with you to achieve the goal of full remission, so that you can truly thrive in your life.
![Photo of Carly Hatfield - Carly Hatfield APRN, PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4509f44-2246-4655-99b0-cf1d3a94defb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carly Hatfield APRN, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
My goal is to provide patient driven care that focuses on your primary concerns. I utilize psychiatric medication and education in order to care for you in a holistic manner. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship through active listening and understanding. I see myself as someone who is here to help you accomplish your goals.
My goal is to provide patient driven care that focuses on your primary concerns. I utilize psychiatric medication and education in order to care for you in a holistic manner. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship through active listening and understanding. I see myself as someone who is here to help you accomplish your goals.
![Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc6e79b6-059c-4f7a-8609-0584dddb6590/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59801 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Montana state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99, Counseling $89-$129. Also accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Montana state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99, Counseling $89-$129. Also accepting some insurances.
![Photo of Dr. Mianna Gale, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90c95102-29d3-49d2-98fe-9754c834a04a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mianna Gale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
29 Endorsed
Kalispell, MT 59901 (Online Only)
At Virtual Med, we understand that every individual's mental health journey is unique. We're committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where patients can express themselves freely and feel genuinely heard. Our mission is to redefine psychiatry by making compassionate, convenient, and personalized mental health services accessible to everyone, everywhere. Service include medication management and talk therapy. Telehealth only.
At Virtual Med, we understand that every individual's mental health journey is unique. We're committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where patients can express themselves freely and feel genuinely heard. Our mission is to redefine psychiatry by making compassionate, convenient, and personalized mental health services accessible to everyone, everywhere. Service include medication management and talk therapy. Telehealth only.
![Photo of Dessye-Dee Clark, APRN, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e563f8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you creative, entrepreneurial, but struggle with focus, impulsivity, and productivity? Social anxiety and assertiveness? Would you like to optimize your potential and begin to do things that are meaningful and sustainable? Do you need somebody with expertise in psychopharmacology, who truly cares about your welfare, who will work closely with you and your primary therapist? Do you know a child or teen that needs urgent psychiatric assessment or stabilization after hospitalization? We understand developmental needs, neurosensory sensitivities, learning differences. We provide Trauma-informed care, always.
Are you creative, entrepreneurial, but struggle with focus, impulsivity, and productivity? Social anxiety and assertiveness? Would you like to optimize your potential and begin to do things that are meaningful and sustainable? Do you need somebody with expertise in psychopharmacology, who truly cares about your welfare, who will work closely with you and your primary therapist? Do you know a child or teen that needs urgent psychiatric assessment or stabilization after hospitalization? We understand developmental needs, neurosensory sensitivities, learning differences. We provide Trauma-informed care, always.
![Photo of Nesrin Abu Ata, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae1491a6-4489-4655-9eb2-52015eab21fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
![Photo of Bryan Walker, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b92a9d1-4a8d-41d9-addb-75d5cf5f503a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bryan Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
Are you a Christian looking for help? Feeling overwhelmed? Unable to fall asleep? Can't turn your mind off? Having mood swings or anxious thoughts? Unable to focus? In a 'dark place' and unable to pull yourself out? Been diagnosed with Depression, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, PTSD? Sometimes persons of faith hesitate to seek expert professional help because they fear that a psychiatric provider will not respect Christian beliefs and values. Perhaps I can help. I am experienced Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and work with adults and teens.
Are you a Christian looking for help? Feeling overwhelmed? Unable to fall asleep? Can't turn your mind off? Having mood swings or anxious thoughts? Unable to focus? In a 'dark place' and unable to pull yourself out? Been diagnosed with Depression, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, PTSD? Sometimes persons of faith hesitate to seek expert professional help because they fear that a psychiatric provider will not respect Christian beliefs and values. Perhaps I can help. I am experienced Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and work with adults and teens.
![Photo of Sarah Niese, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb5d1523-f99b-4c52-bc5f-64ad4daa0329/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients ages 7 and up. I see clients both in person and telemedicine to allow the most comfortable space for you. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic testing and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer medical weight loss services that are designed not only to address physical health concerns but also to foster mental wellness.
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients ages 7 and up. I see clients both in person and telemedicine to allow the most comfortable space for you. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic testing and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer medical weight loss services that are designed not only to address physical health concerns but also to foster mental wellness.
![Photo of Christina Louise Borst, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/227453e1-bd33-4933-9a96-938e5bdb9b4a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Louise Borst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Choteau, MT 59422 (Online Only)
Front Range Family Psychiatry cares for the mental health for the whole family. Children through adults are seen in rural Choteau, Montana. We offer local psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, medication management and some therapy in a discrete location. All major insurances are accepted. There are now three Psych NPs to provide services.
Front Range Family Psychiatry cares for the mental health for the whole family. Children through adults are seen in rural Choteau, Montana. We offer local psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, medication management and some therapy in a discrete location. All major insurances are accepted. There are now three Psych NPs to provide services.
![Photo of Steven K Elrod, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76b4da07-098d-4e82-bf38-2275713b9650/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kalispell, MT 59901 (Online Only)
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Anger, PTSD? A psychiatric evaluation and research-proven treatment could put you back on the path to recovery. Let's do this together.
Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, Anger, PTSD? A psychiatric evaluation and research-proven treatment could put you back on the path to recovery. Let's do this together.
![Photo of Shannon Scally - SPMH & Scally Health and Wellness PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c80b0f7-0ca8-4c3c-ba76-d1edbbc75e9f/1/320x400.png)
SPMH & Scally Health and Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59804
As board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, we work to engage in a unique therapeutic relationship. Our focus is to perform a thorough assessment, diagnosis and evaluation to provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy using a collaborative approach. Overall, we welcome you to come as you are, together, we can reach your mental health goals. Mental health care is an essential piece of overall health.
As board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, we work to engage in a unique therapeutic relationship. Our focus is to perform a thorough assessment, diagnosis and evaluation to provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy using a collaborative approach. Overall, we welcome you to come as you are, together, we can reach your mental health goals. Mental health care is an essential piece of overall health.
![Photo of Laira L Fonner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/090134f4-5f66-44dc-b297-741c71189d3e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laira L Fonner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Whitefish, MT 59937
I've worked with individuals experiencing mental health crises since 2015. I have experience working with patients of all ages. I am an empathetic listener, and take the time to get to know my clients. I enjoy collaborating with clients to establish individualized treatment plans aimed at achieving mental health goals.
I've worked with individuals experiencing mental health crises since 2015. I have experience working with patients of all ages. I am an empathetic listener, and take the time to get to know my clients. I enjoy collaborating with clients to establish individualized treatment plans aimed at achieving mental health goals.
![Photo of Eric Dees, MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4650ddb6-7b83-4a92-b774-5d5fd0e3edc1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Dees
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59808 (Online Only)
I work with individuals seeking to bring order to their lives as a result of mental health or substance use concerns. Many patients often struggle to achieve their health goals with one size fits all treatment and I work hard to break the mold and provide comprehensive, individualized care to each of my patients.
I work with individuals seeking to bring order to their lives as a result of mental health or substance use concerns. Many patients often struggle to achieve their health goals with one size fits all treatment and I work hard to break the mold and provide comprehensive, individualized care to each of my patients.
![Photo of Sarah Niese, CNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0e4d172-1628-4d0f-8685-84ab79392fde/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Niese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalispell, MT 59901
Welcome! GentlePsych is a psychiatry practice serving patients ages 7 and up. I see clients both in person and telemedicine to allow the most comfortable space for you. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic testing and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer medical weight loss services that are designed not only to address physical health concerns but also to foster mental wellness.
Welcome! GentlePsych is a psychiatry practice serving patients ages 7 and up. I see clients both in person and telemedicine to allow the most comfortable space for you. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic testing and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer medical weight loss services that are designed not only to address physical health concerns but also to foster mental wellness.
![Photo of Mimi L Morris, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7faba71c-a05c-41d6-842b-b743e5317fbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mimi L Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
I am accepting a limited number of new patients at this time. I do psychiatric evaluations for the purpose of medication management. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to, ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar II disorder, OCD, and PTSD. I am very invested in what I do, and try to work collaboratively with my patients to come up with the best individualized treatment for every patient I see.
I am accepting a limited number of new patients at this time. I do psychiatric evaluations for the purpose of medication management. Conditions I treat include, but are not limited to, ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar II disorder, OCD, and PTSD. I am very invested in what I do, and try to work collaboratively with my patients to come up with the best individualized treatment for every patient I see.
![Photo of Marcus Robinson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57960e78-5b4e-45c4-94a3-71ce3ae41a81/1/320x400.png)
Marcus Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59808
Now accepting new patients with same week appointments! Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
Now accepting new patients with same week appointments! Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
See more therapy options for Bigfork
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bigfork, MT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bigfork, MT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | First Choice Health | FCH |
How Psychiatrists in Bigfork, MT see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bigfork?
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.