Psychiatrists in Cedarburg, WI
![Photo of Therese Jaeckle - Psych Med Management, LLC, APNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99e10168-34b5-4004-82be-64d203ff8989/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are a small group of Advanced Practice Nurse Prescribers specializing in psychiatry and family practice. As psychiatric nurse practitioners, we provide psychiatric assessment, consultation, and treatment. We have specialized expertise in the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder across the lifespan. Our primary goal is to provide our clients with an individualized psychiatric assessment, medication management and follow up care.
We are a small group of Advanced Practice Nurse Prescribers specializing in psychiatry and family practice. As psychiatric nurse practitioners, we provide psychiatric assessment, consultation, and treatment. We have specialized expertise in the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder across the lifespan. Our primary goal is to provide our clients with an individualized psychiatric assessment, medication management and follow up care.
![Photo of Octavia Manuel-Wright - Balanced Mental Health and Wellness, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, AGPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb7a703f-728b-4ca6-8899-63cf4eddf926/2/320x400.jpeg)
Balanced Mental Health and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPNP
Verified Verified
Cedarburg, WI 53012
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Octavia Manuel-Wright is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a broad knowledge of primary care and psychiatric care for ages 10 years and over. She has a special interest in a holistic approach to care that integrates medication, behavioral modifications, dietary changes, and physical activity. She strives to build strong therapeutic relationships with her patients using a patient-centered collaborative care model. ( Octavia is NOT a licensed therapist, she offers medication management for psychiatric conditions)
Dr. Octavia Manuel-Wright is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a broad knowledge of primary care and psychiatric care for ages 10 years and over. She has a special interest in a holistic approach to care that integrates medication, behavioral modifications, dietary changes, and physical activity. She strives to build strong therapeutic relationships with her patients using a patient-centered collaborative care model. ( Octavia is NOT a licensed therapist, she offers medication management for psychiatric conditions)
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Bruce Semon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ee9c23b-8299-497e-a2e4-05fa23fe3c6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bruce Semon has practiced psychiatry in Ozaukee and the surrounding counties since 1997. He provides a full range of psychiatric medication services for adults, adolescents and children. He is particularly helpful to patients who have experienced medication failures or intolerable side effects. He attends well and closely to his patients, understanding that sometimes their primary care or other doctors have not understood or not responded well to them, leaving patients feeling frustrated and upset.
Dr. Bruce Semon has practiced psychiatry in Ozaukee and the surrounding counties since 1997. He provides a full range of psychiatric medication services for adults, adolescents and children. He is particularly helpful to patients who have experienced medication failures or intolerable side effects. He attends well and closely to his patients, understanding that sometimes their primary care or other doctors have not understood or not responded well to them, leaving patients feeling frustrated and upset.
![Photo of Dr. Jay Winston, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98d66cba-453d-4d3b-8fe2-1dd1e4967e17/2/320x400.png)
Accepting New Patients. Dr. Jay Winston is a Licensed Physician with a specialty in Psychiatry. He is Board-Certified in Psychiatry and has been practicing in Wisconsin for over 28 years in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Years of experience has deepened his knowledge and understanding of individuals who strive to grow, to heal, and to realize their unique potentials. His outpatient patient treatment includes evaluating and treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, ADHD and other problem areas.
Accepting New Patients. Dr. Jay Winston is a Licensed Physician with a specialty in Psychiatry. He is Board-Certified in Psychiatry and has been practicing in Wisconsin for over 28 years in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Years of experience has deepened his knowledge and understanding of individuals who strive to grow, to heal, and to realize their unique potentials. His outpatient patient treatment includes evaluating and treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, ADHD and other problem areas.
![Photo of Stefanie Bailey, MSN, BSN, RN, APNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/248b5449-9bd1-4a07-a386-21c42f590957/1/320x400.png)
Stefanie provides a comfortable, judgment-free space to discuss patient concerns and formulate a treatment plan that incorporates not only the latest evidence-based approaches but the best plan of care for the patient and their specific circumstances and needs. Her compassion and love for her work with the mental health community shines brightly with her infectious personality and boisterous laugh.
Stefanie provides a comfortable, judgment-free space to discuss patient concerns and formulate a treatment plan that incorporates not only the latest evidence-based approaches but the best plan of care for the patient and their specific circumstances and needs. Her compassion and love for her work with the mental health community shines brightly with her infectious personality and boisterous laugh.
![Photo of LaTeisha Prescott, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae3bafb8-a105-4e7a-b64a-7b95cce7a672/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working in the mental/behavioral health field. Specialty areas include pediatrics within the ages of 11-17.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working in the mental/behavioral health field. Specialty areas include pediatrics within the ages of 11-17.
![Photo of Eduard Tsyrulnykov, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e07a2b0e-1b51-423b-b946-2d2a2cef80d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eduard Tsyrulnykov is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2019. Eduard helps clients by exploring possible underlying medical conditions that might be responsible for mental health problems and adjusting psychiatric medications/minimizing side effects and meds toxicity. Outside of work, Eduard enjoys learning about Chinese philosophy and Zhou dynasty.
Eduard Tsyrulnykov is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2019. Eduard helps clients by exploring possible underlying medical conditions that might be responsible for mental health problems and adjusting psychiatric medications/minimizing side effects and meds toxicity. Outside of work, Eduard enjoys learning about Chinese philosophy and Zhou dynasty.
![Photo of Carolyn Klotz, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce7ed734-fa97-437c-8cfe-16af074cfb68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Klotz is a dually board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and an adult nurse practitioner. In 2017, she completed a post-master's nurse practitioner certification in psychiatric mental health from Alverno College and worked in a private practice behavioral health clinic for 4+ years. During this time, she attained expertise in identifying symptoms of ADHD in persons previously diagnosed with mood or anxiety disorders alone. She refers clients for formal testing to clarify diagnosis for treatment purposes.
Carolyn Klotz is a dually board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and an adult nurse practitioner. In 2017, she completed a post-master's nurse practitioner certification in psychiatric mental health from Alverno College and worked in a private practice behavioral health clinic for 4+ years. During this time, she attained expertise in identifying symptoms of ADHD in persons previously diagnosed with mood or anxiety disorders alone. She refers clients for formal testing to clarify diagnosis for treatment purposes.
![Photo of Jacob Behrens - www.envisionadhd.com, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400ce719-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
*Out of Network. All prices transparently listed on www.envisionadhd.com* At Envision ADHD, we strive to create a more accessible, understanding, and specialized care model for the professional with ADHD We understand how untreated ADHD may impair the lives of high functioning adults We understand how commuting to clinic visits and managing monthly paper prescriptions does not fit the demanding lifestyles of working professionals We understand how adults with ADHD have unique treatment needs, and strive to evolve with emerging technologies and research to best tailor the clinical experience
*Out of Network. All prices transparently listed on www.envisionadhd.com* At Envision ADHD, we strive to create a more accessible, understanding, and specialized care model for the professional with ADHD We understand how untreated ADHD may impair the lives of high functioning adults We understand how commuting to clinic visits and managing monthly paper prescriptions does not fit the demanding lifestyles of working professionals We understand how adults with ADHD have unique treatment needs, and strive to evolve with emerging technologies and research to best tailor the clinical experience
![Photo of Dr. James Winston, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd597766-b456-4839-a906-a3e97904be1f/3/320x400.jpeg)
My passion is helping people with Depression. I want my patients to feel empowered because their symptoms leave them feeling powerless. One of my most important roles as a psychiatrist is to instill hope for my patients. Depression is treatable, and with TMS therapy along with medication management, we have even more options for patients who struggle.
My passion is helping people with Depression. I want my patients to feel empowered because their symptoms leave them feeling powerless. One of my most important roles as a psychiatrist is to instill hope for my patients. Depression is treatable, and with TMS therapy along with medication management, we have even more options for patients who struggle.
![Photo of Tatyana Siminak, PMHNP, APNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2447756e-387b-40b8-9c62-1628a9fc3bfb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tatyana Siminak is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Walden University with Master Degree in Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tatyana is passionate about providing respectful, compassionate, culturally sensitive, and excellent services. She strives to make her clients feel comfortable to share the most vulnerable and intimate details. Tatyana is here to help you in this challenging journey. She sees herself as your partner in recovering from mental health illnesses.
Tatyana Siminak is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Walden University with Master Degree in Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tatyana is passionate about providing respectful, compassionate, culturally sensitive, and excellent services. She strives to make her clients feel comfortable to share the most vulnerable and intimate details. Tatyana is here to help you in this challenging journey. She sees herself as your partner in recovering from mental health illnesses.
![Photo of Reuel Kagamba Muiruri, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ee1519c-43f4-4928-bda9-946bc4540f90/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you seeking a comprehensive and compassionate approach to mental wellness?
Are you seeking a comprehensive and compassionate approach to mental wellness?
![Photo of Jessica Ramintho, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9cd9ce3-9840-441b-870e-3568bbf37a14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Ramintho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grafton, WI 53024
I specialize in treating adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. My aim is to improve your quality of life by offering therapeutic solutions.
I specialize in treating adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. My aim is to improve your quality of life by offering therapeutic solutions.
![Photo of Elizabeth C Armstrong, MSN, APNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ffecca9-977b-458f-96d4-baadcadb8d65/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth C Armstrong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mequon, WI 53097
Not accepting new clients
Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse and nursing assistant. I have worked with a large population of people over those 19 years and would love to help you out in a non-judgmental way.
Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked as a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse and nursing assistant. I have worked with a large population of people over those 19 years and would love to help you out in a non-judgmental way.
![Photo of Rebecca Sobanski, MA, MSN, APNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c80a111e-cf34-4fdf-b48a-cbc9c308a663/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Sobanski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, APNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53092
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care, psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management to adults. I also incorporate holistic and integrative approaches and brief therapy into a treatment plan unique to each person's needs. I work with patients who may be struggling with a variety of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and ADHD.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care, psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management to adults. I also incorporate holistic and integrative approaches and brief therapy into a treatment plan unique to each person's needs. I work with patients who may be struggling with a variety of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and ADHD.
![Photo of Dr. Matt Weinlander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d676d1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, and thanks for visiting my profile! I focus on providing personalized, expert, and compassionate mental healthcare in a safe, confidential environment. The cornerstone of my practice is existential psychotherapy and mindful awareness. Through careful examination of your inner life, I will help you identify the processes that are interfering with how you would like to respond or adapt to work, school, or life situations without being burdened by past memories, "scripts," ruminative thoughts, or compulsive behaviors.
Hello, and thanks for visiting my profile! I focus on providing personalized, expert, and compassionate mental healthcare in a safe, confidential environment. The cornerstone of my practice is existential psychotherapy and mindful awareness. Through careful examination of your inner life, I will help you identify the processes that are interfering with how you would like to respond or adapt to work, school, or life situations without being burdened by past memories, "scripts," ruminative thoughts, or compulsive behaviors.
![Photo of Denise Davis, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/515e5cfe-67e5-443b-b0a8-b04be87222aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Denise Davis is a psychiatrist who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from The Medical College of WI with honors and then completed a psychiatry residency again through The Medical College of WI Affiliated Hospitals. She believes in educating the patient on different treatment options and working together to find the best course of care. Her main areas of focus include depression and anxiety. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family, pets and travelling.
Dr. Denise Davis is a psychiatrist who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from The Medical College of WI with honors and then completed a psychiatry residency again through The Medical College of WI Affiliated Hospitals. She believes in educating the patient on different treatment options and working together to find the best course of care. Her main areas of focus include depression and anxiety. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family, pets and travelling.
![Photo of Nikki Myles - Trilogy Behavioral Health Services , FNP-BC, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f07871e3-4b45-4ca0-b894-ac3e3a56b93a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trilogy Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Germantown, WI 53022
Hello ! My name is Nikki (Shalonda) Myles. I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus in family medicine and psychiatry. I offer in-person and Telehealth care.I am currently accepting new patients.
Hello ! My name is Nikki (Shalonda) Myles. I am a nurse practitioner (NP) with a focus in family medicine and psychiatry. I offer in-person and Telehealth care.I am currently accepting new patients.
Mequon Clinical Associates is a highly regarded full-service mental health private practice in the North Shore of Milwaukee. Our office has experienced and compassionate therapists that allows for multiple treatment options such as individual therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Mequon Clinical Associates is a highly regarded full-service mental health private practice in the North Shore of Milwaukee. Our office has experienced and compassionate therapists that allows for multiple treatment options such as individual therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Jonathan Hoerl, MSN, APNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d09710e-63f6-4659-ab1d-717364100df2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Hoerl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mequon, WI 53092
I am dedicated to supporting individuals with trauma or who have weathered life's stressors. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, repercussions from trauma, setting boundaries, expressing yourself verbally or emotionally, or improving your communication skills, I'm here to guide you towards the path you aspire for in your life. Sleep also plays a pivotal role in our overall well-being. Addressing sleep challenges can lead to improvements in various spheres of one's life. My expertise extends to working primarily with adults, and I've received specialized training to assist veterans.
I am dedicated to supporting individuals with trauma or who have weathered life's stressors. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, repercussions from trauma, setting boundaries, expressing yourself verbally or emotionally, or improving your communication skills, I'm here to guide you towards the path you aspire for in your life. Sleep also plays a pivotal role in our overall well-being. Addressing sleep challenges can lead to improvements in various spheres of one's life. My expertise extends to working primarily with adults, and I've received specialized training to assist veterans.
See more therapy options for Cedarburg
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cedarburg, WI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Cedarburg, WI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Humana |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Cedarburg, WI see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cedarburg?
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.