Psychiatrists in Helena, MT
![Photo of Heidi Geil - Optimize Psychiatry, LLC, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eb16e29-3e50-4a25-b383-af0a782b0565/2/320x400.jpeg)
Optimize Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Not accepting new clients
Optimize Psychiatry offers a modern & natural approach to psychiatry that is Personalized, Holistic, Functional & Scientifically Informed. We take a root-cause analytic approach to each client's unique biochemistry, genetics & psychological factors and work to align physiology, neurology, and psychodynamics by incorporating insights from various disciplines within and outside of medicine. Our goal is always to help you retrieve or discover your Optimized Self through insight and future-driven change designed to improve your health across life domains and aligned with your deepest values. (More details at optimizepsychiatry.com)
Optimize Psychiatry offers a modern & natural approach to psychiatry that is Personalized, Holistic, Functional & Scientifically Informed. We take a root-cause analytic approach to each client's unique biochemistry, genetics & psychological factors and work to align physiology, neurology, and psychodynamics by incorporating insights from various disciplines within and outside of medicine. Our goal is always to help you retrieve or discover your Optimized Self through insight and future-driven change designed to improve your health across life domains and aligned with your deepest values. (More details at optimizepsychiatry.com)
![Photo of Michael German, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba9eb408-517b-4e91-9925-37ffce0d434c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of evaluating, diagnosing and treating many mental health disorders for children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working in the outpatient setting, telehealth appointments, inpatient unit and adolescent residential homes. In addition to my experience as a prescriber, I have over 15 years of nursing experience in multiple medical fields.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of evaluating, diagnosing and treating many mental health disorders for children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working in the outpatient setting, telehealth appointments, inpatient unit and adolescent residential homes. In addition to my experience as a prescriber, I have over 15 years of nursing experience in multiple medical fields.
![Photo of Michelle Herron, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18da724b-2c54-4a2a-b00a-2d36a638b699/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Herron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
Michelle Herron grew up in Helena, Montana. She has been specializing in psychiatric care for 13 years. Michelle graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Montana State University in 2022; she is passionate about providing inclusive psychiatric services to Montanans. Michelle believes that the provider and client work together to find an individualized treatment that promotes health, healing, and hope.
Michelle Herron grew up in Helena, Montana. She has been specializing in psychiatric care for 13 years. Michelle graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Montana State University in 2022; she is passionate about providing inclusive psychiatric services to Montanans. Michelle believes that the provider and client work together to find an individualized treatment that promotes health, healing, and hope.
![Photo of Carly Sell, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3fb51bb-1e77-46ff-ac2a-18b1ba56ddea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carly Sell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
Carly Sell, a Montana native, has worked as a psychiatric nurse for the past 15 years. Carly graduated in 2007 from Carroll College with her bachelor’s degree in nursing and from Montana State University in 2022 with her Doctor of Nursing Practice. Carly has always been passionate about improving overall mental health and well-being throughout Montana through suicide prevention, mental health awareness education, and trauma-informed care.
Carly Sell, a Montana native, has worked as a psychiatric nurse for the past 15 years. Carly graduated in 2007 from Carroll College with her bachelor’s degree in nursing and from Montana State University in 2022 with her Doctor of Nursing Practice. Carly has always been passionate about improving overall mental health and well-being throughout Montana through suicide prevention, mental health awareness education, and trauma-informed care.
![Photo of Holly L Gomez Levine - At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c681fc53-e30b-4beb-8150-8f2f6e71c5b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Your Service Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
Online Telepsychiatry Practice. No need to call or email an office. To see availability and schedule, go to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com. Prescription medications are sent to your local pharmacy after the visit. You finally decided to reach out for help, but it takes months to get in. I established this online telepsychiatry practice with the busy person in mind. In our psychiatric mental health practice, we care for people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and more. We strive to offer compassionate and convenient psychiatric care.
![Photo of Doug Mitchell, ARNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c610dfd-a961-48e2-b0e9-7b45fa67bf73/3/320x400.jpeg)
Doug Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP-BC
Not Verified Not Verified
Helena, MT 59601 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS IN NY, FL, MT & CA. I'm Dr. Mitchell, PMHNP- BC, DNP & retired USAF Veteran. As a Psychiatric provider, my aim is to identify, address and modify conditions, limiting patterns and behaviors that diminish function and suppress growth. My philosophy is Bio-Psycho-Social; I acknowledge the whole dynamic being and maintain the explicit intent of fostering personal accountability, growth and development. I approach each therapeutic encounter as a unique opportunity to facilitate the process of expanding awareness and elevating consciousness. We believe illuminating barriers is the first step toward eliminating them.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS IN NY, FL, MT & CA. I'm Dr. Mitchell, PMHNP- BC, DNP & retired USAF Veteran. As a Psychiatric provider, my aim is to identify, address and modify conditions, limiting patterns and behaviors that diminish function and suppress growth. My philosophy is Bio-Psycho-Social; I acknowledge the whole dynamic being and maintain the explicit intent of fostering personal accountability, growth and development. I approach each therapeutic encounter as a unique opportunity to facilitate the process of expanding awareness and elevating consciousness. We believe illuminating barriers is the first step toward eliminating them.
![Photo of Jiff (Jennifer) McAnally, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/967f376b-54a4-4a20-8022-ea0ed6da351e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jiff (Jennifer) McAnally
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601 (Online Only)
Jiff is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Montana State University and focused her research on treating Adverse Childhood Experiences. She has worked and trained at Montana State Hospital, the VA, and many regional hospitals and outpatient facilities where she has served all ages and complexities. She authors continuing education courses for nurses and instructs undergraduate and graduate nursing courses. Jiff grew up in the small-town, farming, ranching, and rodeo ways of life in Montana. She operates from the values of community learned here.
Jiff is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Montana State University and focused her research on treating Adverse Childhood Experiences. She has worked and trained at Montana State Hospital, the VA, and many regional hospitals and outpatient facilities where she has served all ages and complexities. She authors continuing education courses for nurses and instructs undergraduate and graduate nursing courses. Jiff grew up in the small-town, farming, ranching, and rodeo ways of life in Montana. She operates from the values of community learned here.
![Photo of Jennifer Foresman, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68ad76ca-2ca6-48e2-a415-1309e3608a20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Foresman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
![Photo of Nicole Davis - Bellathia Psychiatry, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, PMHC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/045ee628-4b98-4a76-a577-7f9add2a6d5c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bellathia Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMHC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
***Accepting NEW PATIENTS in Montana*****SCHEDULE DIRECTLY at www.bellathiapsychiatry.com****** I can provide psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluation, medication management, laboratory monitoring, follow up care, and referrals as needed. You are important and so is your self care! I'm here to help. I have several years of diverse experience in education and nursing. My goal is to help you understand why you are feeling this way and how we can work together towards meeting your needs.
***Accepting NEW PATIENTS in Montana*****SCHEDULE DIRECTLY at www.bellathiapsychiatry.com****** I can provide psychiatric services including diagnostic evaluation, medication management, laboratory monitoring, follow up care, and referrals as needed. You are important and so is your self care! I'm here to help. I have several years of diverse experience in education and nursing. My goal is to help you understand why you are feeling this way and how we can work together towards meeting your needs.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Richard Mitchell, DO, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0dffc9d-a2ad-4c2c-a56a-4bcb3b15db48/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new telepsychiatry clients in Montana! Dr. Mitchell utilizes a BioPsychoSocial approach and provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and laboratory monitoring as needed.
Accepting new telepsychiatry clients in Montana! Dr. Mitchell utilizes a BioPsychoSocial approach and provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and laboratory monitoring as needed.
![Photo of Kristel Kishbaugh - Mental Health Connections, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82e438b0-5979-4b16-9744-ba83cfe85ed2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Health Connections, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montana City, MT 59634
Good health includes both physical and mental health which is why I believe a holistic perspective is key. I became an RN in 2008 and later, in 2016, I completed a Masters in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership later graduating with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2022.
Good health includes both physical and mental health which is why I believe a holistic perspective is key. I became an RN in 2008 and later, in 2016, I completed a Masters in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership later graduating with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2022.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 Dr. Theresa Clark, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7809976b-ece0-46fc-b9ec-244ea98f9544/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Ten Mile Health and Wellness, the offices of Dr. Theresa Clark, MD. This online physician only practice focuses on providing high quality, individualized psychiatric care in a safe and caring environment. Evidence based medication management, psychotherapy and diet/lifestyle changes are involved in all evaluations.
Welcome to Ten Mile Health and Wellness, the offices of Dr. Theresa Clark, MD. This online physician only practice focuses on providing high quality, individualized psychiatric care in a safe and caring environment. Evidence based medication management, psychotherapy and diet/lifestyle changes are involved in all evaluations.
![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 Allison Sears, BSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36c59d65-6688-4f0b-87f7-a65b194dc6f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Sears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715 (Online Only)
Allison is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained her master’s degree from Gonzaga University. During her eight years of acute-care experience, she participated in forming the Psychiatric Stabilization Unit at Billings Clinic and worked on the in-patient units providing therapeutic care to patients across the lifespan. She has broad experience in crisis intervention and trauma-informed care. Allison now enjoys working out-patient to help clients manage their symptoms and enjoy their ideal quality of life. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and holistic services.
Allison is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained her master’s degree from Gonzaga University. During her eight years of acute-care experience, she participated in forming the Psychiatric Stabilization Unit at Billings Clinic and worked on the in-patient units providing therapeutic care to patients across the lifespan. She has broad experience in crisis intervention and trauma-informed care. Allison now enjoys working out-patient to help clients manage their symptoms and enjoy their ideal quality of life. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and holistic services.
![Photo of Eleanor Combs, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f36cb9-2735-487d-823a-666fcfff5871/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and certificate of Nursing Education from Montana State University. I have treated numerous patients with various conditions and collaborated with members of treatment teams to optimize overall mental health. My goal is to provide thorough, accurate assessment in order to effectively treat those experiencing psychiatric/behavioral health issues.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and certificate of Nursing Education from Montana State University. I have treated numerous patients with various conditions and collaborated with members of treatment teams to optimize overall mental health. My goal is to provide thorough, accurate assessment in order to effectively treat those experiencing psychiatric/behavioral health issues.
![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.
D. B.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Butte, MT 59701 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
No longer in practice. Closed until further notice.
No longer in practice. Closed until further notice.
![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.
![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
Bozeman, MT 59717 (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.
See more therapy options for Helena
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Helena, MT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Helena, MT who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
89% | ADHD |
89% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
83% | Medicaid |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Helena, MT see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Helena?
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.