Psychiatrists in Hall County, NE
![Photo of Sherry Kropatsch, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/501dd37c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sherry Kropatsch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP
Verified Verified
Grand Island, NE 68803
Well-being, done well. I have years of experience treating mental health conditions (6 and older). I offer diagnostic evaluation and medication management for all mental illnesses. Pharmacogenomic (DNA) testing available. Active Spravato treatment center. Memberships include Nebraska Nurse Practitioners (NNP), American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) and American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Clinical TMS Society, & now studying psychedelic led therapy at IPI, Boulder, CO. Accepting new patients. Extended office hours.
Well-being, done well. I have years of experience treating mental health conditions (6 and older). I offer diagnostic evaluation and medication management for all mental illnesses. Pharmacogenomic (DNA) testing available. Active Spravato treatment center. Memberships include Nebraska Nurse Practitioners (NNP), American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) and American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Clinical TMS Society, & now studying psychedelic led therapy at IPI, Boulder, CO. Accepting new patients. Extended office hours.
![Photo of Anne Niffenegger, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, CNL, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f59c334e-6e0a-4650-89d8-02a353c1b232/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Niffenegger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, CNL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Island, NE 68803
My ideal client is someone facing the challenges of living with mental illness. They seek a compassionate, understanding, and non-judgmental space to explore their emotions and struggles. Their goals include gaining control over their symptoms, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered because they believe in their potential for growth and recovery.
My ideal client is someone facing the challenges of living with mental illness. They seek a compassionate, understanding, and non-judgmental space to explore their emotions and struggles. Their goals include gaining control over their symptoms, improving daily functioning, and enhancing their overall quality of life. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered because they believe in their potential for growth and recovery.
![Photo of Alicia Theilen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa7dd192-ff9f-4b95-9b5a-ece5735c8411/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Theilen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Grand Island, NE 68801
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 Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5f2cf24-6301-46d5-9780-4f0e8f91ef1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Grand Island, NE 68801 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other 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. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other 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. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Steven John Meek, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a38b7515-e298-41ae-b0bb-fe85a45630f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a passion for designing specialized treatment plans tailored to analyzing and caring for the root elements of mental health. My solution-based focus and patient orientated treatment style has attained consistent results. I apply an array of treatment modalities supporting the biological, psychological, and social dynamics of mental health.
I have a passion for designing specialized treatment plans tailored to analyzing and caring for the root elements of mental health. My solution-based focus and patient orientated treatment style has attained consistent results. I apply an array of treatment modalities supporting the biological, psychological, and social dynamics of mental health.
![Photo of Mark W Harvey - Resilience Mental Health Services, APRN , FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27b99768-fb49-4cd8-8112-ad31ed3d47bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Resilience Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Grand Island, NE 68803
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Amarachi Ogbonnaya-Akpa - YOUniq Health, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d9611c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
YOUniq Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68506
We have NEW patient openings so, DON'T sit on a WAIT list! Get scheduled right away! At YOUniq Health, we help children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly dealing with several mild to severe psychiatric and mental illnesses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, substance use disorder, PTSD, eating disorder, borderline personality disorder, and many more. We believe that whole health begins with a healthy mind so, our clinicians look at your whole being while evaluating you for the need for care, prescribing medications, and offering brief supportive therapy to you.
We have NEW patient openings so, DON'T sit on a WAIT list! Get scheduled right away! At YOUniq Health, we help children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly dealing with several mild to severe psychiatric and mental illnesses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, substance use disorder, PTSD, eating disorder, borderline personality disorder, and many more. We believe that whole health begins with a healthy mind so, our clinicians look at your whole being while evaluating you for the need for care, prescribing medications, and offering brief supportive therapy to you.
![Photo of Paige Buresh, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4a6f76c-c069-48a2-b9c7-6bcccb26350a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Paige Buresh, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). With specialized training and experience in mental health care, I am here to provide comprehensive support to individuals seeking improved emotional well-being. I specialize in diagnosis and medication management, offering personalized treatment plans for children, adolescents, and adults. I firmly believe in the power of collaboration. As your PMHNP, I see us as partners working together to navigate the complexities of your mental health journey.
Hello, I'm Paige Buresh, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). With specialized training and experience in mental health care, I am here to provide comprehensive support to individuals seeking improved emotional well-being. I specialize in diagnosis and medication management, offering personalized treatment plans for children, adolescents, and adults. I firmly believe in the power of collaboration. As your PMHNP, I see us as partners working together to navigate the complexities of your mental health journey.
![Photo of Brian Brandt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ae8a47f-4128-4f7d-a18c-a31ac62cbf08/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Brian Brandt I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer over 25 years of experience in behavioral health. I have completed my Master's of Science in Nursing from Walden University. I have worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with both inpatient and outpatient clients that have a variety of mental health diagnoses. I am seeing you as to how you are and individualized your plan of care. I work with all patient ages and treat all mental health conditions.
My name is Brian Brandt I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer over 25 years of experience in behavioral health. I have completed my Master's of Science in Nursing from Walden University. I have worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with both inpatient and outpatient clients that have a variety of mental health diagnoses. I am seeing you as to how you are and individualized your plan of care. I work with all patient ages and treat all mental health conditions.
Moonstone Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68516
At Moonstone Psychiatry, we offer a range of psychiatric services tailored to your needs. Our offerings include in-person office visits, Tele-psychiatry Services, Psychiatric Evaluations, and Medication Management. During your initial evaluation, we will conduct a detailed review of your past mental health history and treatments (if any), review medical issues as this may impact treatment, and discuss your mental health concerns and goals for treatment. If indicated, psychotropic medications may be prescribed at this time.
At Moonstone Psychiatry, we offer a range of psychiatric services tailored to your needs. Our offerings include in-person office visits, Tele-psychiatry Services, Psychiatric Evaluations, and Medication Management. During your initial evaluation, we will conduct a detailed review of your past mental health history and treatments (if any), review medical issues as this may impact treatment, and discuss your mental health concerns and goals for treatment. If indicated, psychotropic medications may be prescribed at this time.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e993d05-cce0-4262-b7a2-8cd25cd7605b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68510
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Katie Lynn Sturdevant, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7ade43e-98ac-42b6-966c-71b9d700af98/2/320x400.jpeg)
"If you are new to mental health medications, or if you are not, you might have doubts. I'll take the time to listen to your concerns and develop a plan that you are comfortable with. This is a process and I am willing to work with you and make the changes necessary to benefit your overall state of mental health."
"If you are new to mental health medications, or if you are not, you might have doubts. I'll take the time to listen to your concerns and develop a plan that you are comfortable with. This is a process and I am willing to work with you and make the changes necessary to benefit your overall state of mental health."
![Photo of Jessica N Buettner, APRN-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31926687-8023-49f6-a793-c0d5984f155c/1/320x400.jpeg)
There are many reasons that lead you to seek mental health treatment, and getting started can be difficult. I'm glad you're here. I have immediate openings so that we can get you on the road to becoming your best self as soon as you are ready to take that first step.
There are many reasons that lead you to seek mental health treatment, and getting started can be difficult. I'm glad you're here. I have immediate openings so that we can get you on the road to becoming your best self as soon as you are ready to take that first step.
![Photo of Connie R Nelson, MSN, APRN-NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/260892af-dc42-443f-b4df-7108755ba3b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connie R Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68510
You know yourself better than anyone else, so I will partner with you to plan your care. I will combine my knowledge, expertise, and various treatments with your expertise about you and your situation. I provide conservative treatment with the fewest medications possible. Let me help you meet your goals and get you back to life.
You know yourself better than anyone else, so I will partner with you to plan your care. I will combine my knowledge, expertise, and various treatments with your expertise about you and your situation. I provide conservative treatment with the fewest medications possible. Let me help you meet your goals and get you back to life.
![Photo of Kristina Unseld, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4067871c-b476-45d2-89d3-d6057b85814d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Coming Soon! Accepting New Patients- August 2024. Note: insurance credentialing pending. Self pay options available. I love to work with patients of all ages and especially love to help patients navigate transitions and stressors in life. I strive to treat each patient as an individual and to include them as an active member of the healthcare team
Coming Soon! Accepting New Patients- August 2024. Note: insurance credentialing pending. Self pay options available. I love to work with patients of all ages and especially love to help patients navigate transitions and stressors in life. I strive to treat each patient as an individual and to include them as an active member of the healthcare team
![Photo of Gigi Florez, PMHNP, BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0faf2a82-e56b-4e51-8d5c-aad95f588d83/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide medication management to people of all ages, from children to geriatric. My focus is working with clients to better themselves through medication management. I hope that I can help clients gain and maintain control of their lives in the best way possible.
I provide medication management to people of all ages, from children to geriatric. My focus is working with clients to better themselves through medication management. I hope that I can help clients gain and maintain control of their lives in the best way possible.
![Photo of Kimberly Waters, APRN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fdf5452-3572-49cb-948a-c7048a5db3b0/2/320x400.png)
As a Nurse Practitioner (APRN) I feel passionately that our physical and mental health are interconnected and it is best to treat from a whole body perspective and really get to know my patients on a personal level. Each and every person is an individual and I believe it is my role to listen, and learn about my patients .
As a Nurse Practitioner (APRN) I feel passionately that our physical and mental health are interconnected and it is best to treat from a whole body perspective and really get to know my patients on a personal level. Each and every person is an individual and I believe it is my role to listen, and learn about my patients .
![Photo of Shayla Hinrichsen, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c35b5ea-e43b-49e9-8d4b-ea4180e7c979/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shayla Hinrichsen is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric care and a commitment to promoting holistic mental health and wellness. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing degrees from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. With a passion for mental health advocacy and a focus on individualized, evidence-based care, Shayla provides comprehensive psychiatric assessments, diagnoses, and medication management for a wide range of mental health issues.
Shayla Hinrichsen is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric care and a commitment to promoting holistic mental health and wellness. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing degrees from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. With a passion for mental health advocacy and a focus on individualized, evidence-based care, Shayla provides comprehensive psychiatric assessments, diagnoses, and medication management for a wide range of mental health issues.
![Photo of Jennifer Foresman - Balance Psychiatric Services, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4bd02d1-bbbd-4714-a385-ac029a28ddbf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Cambridge, NE 69022 (Online Only)
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
![Photo of Susan Gripp, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58840c96-3e4f-45b1-a1ae-592dbca5237c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your needs are unique so your care should be too. I provide individualized psychiatric and behavioral health care to children, adolescents and adults. I have a a specialty focus in children, adolescents and women of all ages, including expectant and nursing mothers.
Your needs are unique so your care should be too. I provide individualized psychiatric and behavioral health care to children, adolescents and adults. I have a a specialty focus in children, adolescents and women of all ages, including expectant and nursing mothers.
See more therapy options for Hall County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hall County, NE
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hall County, NE who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Suicidal Ideation |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Aetna |
75% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in Hall County, NE see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hall County?
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.