Psychiatrists in Elkhorn, NE
![Photo of Paul M Wilken, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4744c1d6-8f9f-4682-b7da-6276c0d0e270/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paul M Wilken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elkhorn, NE 68022 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I partner with clients of all ages and life experiences. My goal is to be your teammate in finding the simplest and healthiest strategies to allow you to take ownership of your mental health.
I partner with clients of all ages and life experiences. My goal is to be your teammate in finding the simplest and healthiest strategies to allow you to take ownership of your mental health.
![Photo of Anne Hofer - Her Story Women's Mental Health Services, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0e616da-548c-4666-9182-d94776ef0acf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Her Story Women's Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Not accepting new clients
Some of our offerings and specialties include telemedicine, psychiatric medication management for teens and adults, psychiatric evaluations, referral to individual and group therapies, pre-conception counseling, medication management during pregnancy, and treatment for postpartum disorders.
Some of our offerings and specialties include telemedicine, psychiatric medication management for teens and adults, psychiatric evaluations, referral to individual and group therapies, pre-conception counseling, medication management during pregnancy, and treatment for postpartum disorders.
![Photo of Amanda Butler, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7c637af-8d28-4200-9ddd-4c4b0a605601/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Amanda is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner focusing on the adult patient population. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she diagnoses and treats individuals experiencing mental health conditions by providing psychiatric evaluations, supportive psychotherapy, and medication management. She treats various mental health concerns, such as mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
Amanda is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner focusing on the adult patient population. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, she diagnoses and treats individuals experiencing mental health conditions by providing psychiatric evaluations, supportive psychotherapy, and medication management. She treats various mental health concerns, such as mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Meghan Luebbert, DNP, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4cb2a5f-999d-4b15-ac36-29ffa24c7d36/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Meghan Luebbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Meghan is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in the adult population (18+). As a PMHNP, Meghan is able to perform psychiatric evaluations, provide brief supportive therapy, diagnose and prescribe medication to treat mental health condition(s).
Meghan is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in the adult population (18+). As a PMHNP, Meghan is able to perform psychiatric evaluations, provide brief supportive therapy, diagnose and prescribe medication to treat mental health condition(s).
![Photo of Macy Kasperbauer, MSN, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d61783b5-808f-476b-989b-c5c31e1d9003/3/320x400.jpeg)
Macy Kasperbauer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elkhorn, NE 68022
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in children, adolescents and young adults, and am the owner and founder of Integrative Psychiatry. I provide psychiatric evaluations, mental health diagnoses, psychotherapy, and medication management in a comfortable and inviting outpatient setting. I have a strong passion in working with younger populations, as I love assisting patients meet their overall treatment needs and obtaining a productive, healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in children, adolescents and young adults, and am the owner and founder of Integrative Psychiatry. I provide psychiatric evaluations, mental health diagnoses, psychotherapy, and medication management in a comfortable and inviting outpatient setting. I have a strong passion in working with younger populations, as I love assisting patients meet their overall treatment needs and obtaining a productive, healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
![Photo of Molly Petersen, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e7a973-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Molly Petersen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Elkhorn, NE 68022
***Now offering Telehealth Visits ****I use a patient centered holistic approach. I want my patients to be involved in their care. There are many different treatments including medications, different therapies, and non-medicinal treatment options. We will explore all options, and together we will come up with a plan that will best fit your needs at this time in your life. We will talk about long term outcomes and what research has shown for your projected treatment course. I will work with you to provide education and self empowerment so you feel like you have control of your illness, not the other way around.
***Now offering Telehealth Visits ****I use a patient centered holistic approach. I want my patients to be involved in their care. There are many different treatments including medications, different therapies, and non-medicinal treatment options. We will explore all options, and together we will come up with a plan that will best fit your needs at this time in your life. We will talk about long term outcomes and what research has shown for your projected treatment course. I will work with you to provide education and self empowerment so you feel like you have control of your illness, not the other way around.
![Photo of Amy Barnes, APRN-NP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/912d46d5-2702-4044-a3f9-393946aeeeaa/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to helping my patients achieve wellness in mind, body, and spirit. In my practice I collaborate with multiple specialties to treat psychiatric diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD and PTSD. I also work with women who are pre-natal, pregnant, or postpartum; as well as those going through fertility treatment. I am an advocate and ally of the LGBTQIA community. I believe patients are best served when approached with non-judgment and are encouraged to be an active part of their health journey.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to helping my patients achieve wellness in mind, body, and spirit. In my practice I collaborate with multiple specialties to treat psychiatric diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD and PTSD. I also work with women who are pre-natal, pregnant, or postpartum; as well as those going through fertility treatment. I am an advocate and ally of the LGBTQIA community. I believe patients are best served when approached with non-judgment and are encouraged to be an active part of their health journey.
![Photo of Kimberly Camp-Grimit, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1849936-6257-4b28-9634-d9a1b5fa1761/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Camp-Grimit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Over the past 18 years of practice, the most rewarding part of my career has been seeing patients achieve their occupational, personal and spiritual goals through the management of their psychiatric symptoms. I work with patients to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses the symptoms that are causing difficulty in their lives.
Over the past 18 years of practice, the most rewarding part of my career has been seeing patients achieve their occupational, personal and spiritual goals through the management of their psychiatric symptoms. I work with patients to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses the symptoms that are causing difficulty in their lives.
![Photo of Nancy Handler M.d. - Nancy Handler, MD , Mind & Mood Mental Health, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a97abb5-9438-4e3e-828f-2ccd2fb0e0e4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy Handler, MD , Mind & Mood Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Dr. Nancy Handler, founder of Mind and Mood Mental Health, LLC, is a board certified psychiatrist who graduated medical school from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and completed residency at the University of Oklahoma. Dr. Handler has completed additional training in management of women's mental health through Mass General Hospital. She specializes in the diagnosis and management of various mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
Dr. Nancy Handler, founder of Mind and Mood Mental Health, LLC, is a board certified psychiatrist who graduated medical school from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and completed residency at the University of Oklahoma. Dr. Handler has completed additional training in management of women's mental health through Mass General Hospital. She specializes in the diagnosis and management of various mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Andrew Martin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a371df58-6365-431f-90ee-45d8faaf1e98/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am experienced and very comfortable working with older children, adolescents/teens, and adults. I become a partner with each patient and listen to what their concerns and issues are. We then create a plan that both of us are comfortable with and feel confident about as we move forward with treatment. For those that are interested in medication treatment options - I am always eager to help patients make decisions related to this, and will provide education on the benefits/risks of each option.
I am experienced and very comfortable working with older children, adolescents/teens, and adults. I become a partner with each patient and listen to what their concerns and issues are. We then create a plan that both of us are comfortable with and feel confident about as we move forward with treatment. For those that are interested in medication treatment options - I am always eager to help patients make decisions related to this, and will provide education on the benefits/risks of each option.
![Photo of Sherri Taylor, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffca9562-0b3e-4773-800e-9516f070dece/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been providing medical care for over 30 years as a registered nurse. I have cared for patients at every stage of life from beginning to end. It has been a rewarding career. My practice philosophy as a nurse practitioner is much the same as it was as a nurse. I want to continue to be compassionate in my care for others. On your first visit, I would like to gather your medical and mental health history so we can target your most problematic issues or concerns together. To accomplish your treatment goals, I need to understand where you have been, where you are, and where you want to be in the future.
I have been providing medical care for over 30 years as a registered nurse. I have cared for patients at every stage of life from beginning to end. It has been a rewarding career. My practice philosophy as a nurse practitioner is much the same as it was as a nurse. I want to continue to be compassionate in my care for others. On your first visit, I would like to gather your medical and mental health history so we can target your most problematic issues or concerns together. To accomplish your treatment goals, I need to understand where you have been, where you are, and where you want to be in the future.
![Photo of Cheri Jenkins, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, LMHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed35f4b4-005c-4384-b422-8391a0c58683/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cheri Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, LMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Cheri (she/her) is a revered mental health professional with extensive expertise in aiding teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and self-sabotaging tendencies. Known for cultivating healing connections, Cheri blends evidence-based techniques with profound clinical acumen, personal understanding, and intuition to deliver comprehensive and impactful therapy. Emphasizing thoroughness and holistic views, her integrative methodology guarantees superior care that fosters clients' holistic wellness and developmental journey.
Cheri (she/her) is a revered mental health professional with extensive expertise in aiding teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and self-sabotaging tendencies. Known for cultivating healing connections, Cheri blends evidence-based techniques with profound clinical acumen, personal understanding, and intuition to deliver comprehensive and impactful therapy. Emphasizing thoroughness and holistic views, her integrative methodology guarantees superior care that fosters clients' holistic wellness and developmental journey.
![Photo of Rebecca Dawn Slominski, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af3f882b-5616-4f6f-b259-bf1ce1caa0cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Dawn Slominski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Dawn Slominski is a nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree specializing in behavioral/mental health treatment. She has more than 5 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, 25+ years in the nursing field. Dawn believes in providing individualized treatment plans based on the unique circumstances of each client. She believes people have innate healing abilities, clients are people not illnesses, recovery involves addressing causes not just symptoms, and healing takes a collaborative approach. She seeks to empower individuals and families through intervention, treatment, education, support, and advocacy. Ages 17 years and up.
Dawn Slominski is a nurse practitioner with a doctorate degree specializing in behavioral/mental health treatment. She has more than 5 years of experience as a nurse practitioner, 25+ years in the nursing field. Dawn believes in providing individualized treatment plans based on the unique circumstances of each client. She believes people have innate healing abilities, clients are people not illnesses, recovery involves addressing causes not just symptoms, and healing takes a collaborative approach. She seeks to empower individuals and families through intervention, treatment, education, support, and advocacy. Ages 17 years and up.
![Photo of Sheree Herkenrath, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e64fe06-f68e-43e2-b911-c36e256baa0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheree Herkenrath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkhorn, NE 68022
With over two decades of experience in healthcare, I understand how challenging it can be to juggle life and maintain your own mental health. I chose a career in mental health to instill hope, promote health and realize potential. I believe that when we enhance mental health, we also improve physical health, familial ties, and general day-to-day functioning
With over two decades of experience in healthcare, I understand how challenging it can be to juggle life and maintain your own mental health. I chose a career in mental health to instill hope, promote health and realize potential. I believe that when we enhance mental health, we also improve physical health, familial ties, and general day-to-day functioning
![Photo of Bonnie Rothell, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15ea439e-4114-4fcf-8ae2-4d4519250e4f/2/320x400.png)
Bonnie Rothell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkhorn, NE 68022
The best time for new beginnings is now! I am currently taking new clients. I am a compassionate Psych NP dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. With a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders, I offer personalized care tailored to each individual's unique needs. I am here to provide care using evidence-based treatments and offer patient-centered care. I prioritize the well-being, comfort, and improved mental health outcomes for my clients. My goal is to empower each one to rewrite their story.
The best time for new beginnings is now! I am currently taking new clients. I am a compassionate Psych NP dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. With a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders, I offer personalized care tailored to each individual's unique needs. I am here to provide care using evidence-based treatments and offer patient-centered care. I prioritize the well-being, comfort, and improved mental health outcomes for my clients. My goal is to empower each one to rewrite their story.
![Photo of Holly Montgomery, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0823a2ec-25c9-412f-8e21-fc8931ffdb35/3/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Montgomery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elkhorn, NE 68022
Finding the right provider for your mental health can be difficult. You want someone who understands you, listens to you, and treats you like the unique individual you are. You want someone who you can trust and feel comfortable opening up to. You want someone with experience and know-how who will empower you and give you the tools you need to live a fulfilling and successful life.
Finding the right provider for your mental health can be difficult. You want someone who understands you, listens to you, and treats you like the unique individual you are. You want someone who you can trust and feel comfortable opening up to. You want someone with experience and know-how who will empower you and give you the tools you need to live a fulfilling and successful life.
![Photo of Rojay Passley, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cda2412-f140-4a2b-a8a6-eaf5dc80a63f/2/320x400.jpeg)
“There’s No Good Health without Good Mental Health” -Sheryl Garriques-Lloyd. I believe everyone's concerns are valid and they deserved to be heard. I will listen attentively to your issues and ensure that you are aware of the different treatment options available that is unique to your situation, so that you're able to make an informed decision.
“There’s No Good Health without Good Mental Health” -Sheryl Garriques-Lloyd. I believe everyone's concerns are valid and they deserved to be heard. I will listen attentively to your issues and ensure that you are aware of the different treatment options available that is unique to your situation, so that you're able to make an informed decision.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Alicia Theilen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa7dd192-ff9f-4b95-9b5a-ece5735c8411/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? The first steps taken toward healing may be intimidating, however, you do not have to make the journey alone. I am here to guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in cultivating a strong therapeutic partnership built on trust and respect. Together, a treatment plan will be created and tailored to fit you utilizing medication management. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
Now accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? The first steps taken toward healing may be intimidating, however, you do not have to make the journey alone. I am here to guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in cultivating a strong therapeutic partnership built on trust and respect. Together, a treatment plan will be created and tailored to fit you utilizing medication management. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
![Photo of Alesha Graves, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0c6fbb3-34b1-41df-a589-4ccc5d9be326/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking out care for mental health can be difficult and scary. I strive to provide optimal medication management to those with mental health struggles. I work with patients to come up with a plan of care together that best fits their needs in the present moment and goals for the future. I enjoy helping those regain control of and improve their quality of life. I provide a relaxed and nonjudgmental environment for you to be able to express your concerns and needs.
Seeking out care for mental health can be difficult and scary. I strive to provide optimal medication management to those with mental health struggles. I work with patients to come up with a plan of care together that best fits their needs in the present moment and goals for the future. I enjoy helping those regain control of and improve their quality of life. I provide a relaxed and nonjudgmental environment for you to be able to express your concerns and needs.
![Photo of Ben Franzen, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42bfd8a8-f5e3-480a-a006-2050b7682e50/1/320x400.png)
I am a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been serving Nebraska since 2022. Born and raised in Nebraska, I am glad to have returned to my home state after completing my education. I strongly believe that the best way to treat patients is to act as a partner and member of the team committed to each patients health and wellness. I always try to offer patients choices for medications and treatments based on my knowledge and expertise while also considering input from each patient regarding what is important to them so we can make treatment decisions together.
I am a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been serving Nebraska since 2022. Born and raised in Nebraska, I am glad to have returned to my home state after completing my education. I strongly believe that the best way to treat patients is to act as a partner and member of the team committed to each patients health and wellness. I always try to offer patients choices for medications and treatments based on my knowledge and expertise while also considering input from each patient regarding what is important to them so we can make treatment decisions together.
See more therapy options for Elkhorn
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Elkhorn, NE
10+
Psychiatrists in Elkhorn, NE who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | Medication Management |
76% | ADHD |
71% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
92% | Midlands Choice |
85% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Elkhorn, NE see their clients
95% | In Person and Online | |
5% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Elkhorn?
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.