Psychiatrists in Fond Du Lac County, WI
![Photo of Joline Michelle Brotzman, MS, PMHNP, APNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2c0bc54-ef99-4a98-b6bf-8b0cc3e89d98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joline Michelle Brotzman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, APNP
Verified Verified
Fond Du Lac, WI 54935 (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with children and adolescents ages 12 and up. I like to intervene as part of the treatment team as soon as possible to veer outcomes away from substance use disorders or legal troubles as adults. Most adults can identify their struggles first started as children or adolescents. I shine brightest when I know that I am part of the process of changing a young persons life.
I have a passion for working with children and adolescents ages 12 and up. I like to intervene as part of the treatment team as soon as possible to veer outcomes away from substance use disorders or legal troubles as adults. Most adults can identify their struggles first started as children or adolescents. I shine brightest when I know that I am part of the process of changing a young persons life.
![Photo of Hong Yin - New Frontiers TMS LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96c17719-271c-478a-b5f5-3fe403eb7209/1/320x400.png)
Antidepressants not working? TMS is an FDA approved non-medication based option, covered by insurance. It activates cells in the brain that tend to be under-active in depression and also promotes release of neurotransmitters that help mood. TMS targets the part of the brain specifically involved in mood regulation. TMS also works on a concept called neuroplasticity. Stimulating the left prefrontal cortex can induce the brain into creating new pathways for effective transmission. Dr. Yin offers other evidence based treatments too.
Antidepressants not working? TMS is an FDA approved non-medication based option, covered by insurance. It activates cells in the brain that tend to be under-active in depression and also promotes release of neurotransmitters that help mood. TMS targets the part of the brain specifically involved in mood regulation. TMS also works on a concept called neuroplasticity. Stimulating the left prefrontal cortex can induce the brain into creating new pathways for effective transmission. Dr. Yin offers other evidence based treatments too.
![Photo of Megan Sloan, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77ae0355-d082-4aa1-8c85-a14c2d6dc1df/2/320x400.png)
Megan Sloan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Campbellsport, WI 53010 (Online Only)
I'm Megan, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry and primary care. I take the time to listen and help you decide on a personalized plan for psychiatric medication and psychotherapy.
I'm Megan, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry and primary care. I take the time to listen and help you decide on a personalized plan for psychiatric medication and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Bobbi Jo Durst, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ef733a4-0393-4126-b2cf-ec41eef4e12a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bobbi Jo Durst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fond Du Lac, WI 54935
Accepting new patients! My personal goal is to create and provide positive changes in soceity by being an exceptional mental health role model. I use a collaborative approach and current evidence based practice to focus on prevention, treatment and education to promote health and wellness for my patients.
Accepting new patients! My personal goal is to create and provide positive changes in soceity by being an exceptional mental health role model. I use a collaborative approach and current evidence based practice to focus on prevention, treatment and education to promote health and wellness for my patients.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Christina Fuchs, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2464809f-21db-4f73-b691-65f8f704374d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Fuchs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pewaukee, WI 53072
Accepting new patients! I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who can diagnose and treat anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar, mood disorders, schizophrenia, addiction, sleep disorders, migraines and more across Wisconsin. I also offer telehealth appointments for your convenience!
Accepting new patients! I am an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who can diagnose and treat anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar, mood disorders, schizophrenia, addiction, sleep disorders, migraines and more across Wisconsin. I also offer telehealth appointments for your convenience!
![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 Volker Nabavi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95d16513-b577-4629-9f81-41d31755f870/1/320x400.jpeg)
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215 (Online Only)
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
![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.
![Photo of Veena Tripathi Ahuja, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e664e20-c0bd-46e2-8d60-9358bcff8e14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veena Tripathi Ahuja
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Ahuja is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Balanced Innovative Care. She has expertise in treating all mental health disorders including Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Stress-related disorders. She offers specialized diagnostic Autism evaluations, ADHD evaluations, one-time consultations, and ongoing care with medication management to patients in Ohio and Wisconsin. Online appointments are available with no waitlist including evenings and weekends. Schedule a new patient appointment directly from her website here: www.BalancedInnovativeCare.com/new-patients
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Ahuja is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Balanced Innovative Care. She has expertise in treating all mental health disorders including Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Stress-related disorders. She offers specialized diagnostic Autism evaluations, ADHD evaluations, one-time consultations, and ongoing care with medication management to patients in Ohio and Wisconsin. Online appointments are available with no waitlist including evenings and weekends. Schedule a new patient appointment directly from her website here: www.BalancedInnovativeCare.com/new-patients
![Photo of Heather Sanders, LPC, CSAC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce7955f6-35d3-403c-a235-85223350e02e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather D. Talley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as well as a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. She received her Master’s Degree from Springfield College in Community Counseling. She has been providing therapeutic services since 2013.
Heather D. Talley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as well as a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. She received her Master’s Degree from Springfield College in Community Counseling. She has been providing therapeutic services since 2013.
![Photo of Christine Foster, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b542561d-388a-4688-952f-1b27725efdf0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Foster is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2001. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University for PMHNP and UIC for FNP. Christine's experience is wide and varied, with expertise in child/adolescent psychiatry, ages 5 years and older, adult psychiatry, and substance use disorders. She offers compassionate care and integrity in her professional relationships with children/families and adults, which include pregnant women and those over age 65. Christine is also registered with the Clozapine REMS program.
Christine Foster is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2001. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University for PMHNP and UIC for FNP. Christine's experience is wide and varied, with expertise in child/adolescent psychiatry, ages 5 years and older, adult psychiatry, and substance use disorders. She offers compassionate care and integrity in her professional relationships with children/families and adults, which include pregnant women and those over age 65. Christine is also registered with the Clozapine REMS program.
![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 Denise Matel-Anderson, APNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45097a5c-53cb-4a35-8647-e427fd42c828/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a compassionate practitioner with a doctorate in nursing and dual certifications as a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP). In addition to working as a PMHNP, I was a lecturer and clinical instructor for undergraduate nursing students, published research on a variety of mental health topics, and provided medical care at a psychiatric hospital for adults and children/adolescents. My research focuses on resilience, positive thinking, and resourcefulness in vulnerable populations. In practice, I treat a broad range of mental health concerns for adults.
I am a compassionate practitioner with a doctorate in nursing and dual certifications as a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP). In addition to working as a PMHNP, I was a lecturer and clinical instructor for undergraduate nursing students, published research on a variety of mental health topics, and provided medical care at a psychiatric hospital for adults and children/adolescents. My research focuses on resilience, positive thinking, and resourcefulness in vulnerable populations. In practice, I treat a broad range of mental health concerns for adults.
![Photo of Chris Bedford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9ef4d49-a384-49ae-8c30-d329b045fbe0/1/320x400.png)
Chris Bedford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Chris and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Chris has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations treating a variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and other health conditions. He believes in the importance of a strong client/clinician partnership which allows the client maximum autonomy in decision-making. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Chris and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Chris has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations treating a variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and other health conditions. He believes in the importance of a strong client/clinician partnership which allows the client maximum autonomy in decision-making. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Carla Weismantel, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90ae9a6d-5321-4ebf-b481-71aa0ca00b60/2/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been providing services for in home and treatment settings. I see adults, and seniors and address addiction/substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and traumatic disorders. I have years of experience in bedside psychiatric travel nursing across the United States, my therapeutic approach is deeply based on the individualized patient.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been providing services for in home and treatment settings. I see adults, and seniors and address addiction/substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and traumatic disorders. I have years of experience in bedside psychiatric travel nursing across the United States, my therapeutic approach is deeply based on the individualized patient.
![Photo of Martha Akinbile, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddce5c32-1c1f-4427-978f-268a69c4f38f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Akinbile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202 (Online Only)
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Martha is committed to providing high-quality mental health care to individuals across various age groups (6+ and 99). With a strong foundation in psychiatric nursing, she specializes in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders. With Martha's empathetic nature and excellent communication skills, Martha encourages her patients to open up about their struggles, aiding in their journey towards mental wellness.
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Martha is committed to providing high-quality mental health care to individuals across various age groups (6+ and 99). With a strong foundation in psychiatric nursing, she specializes in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders. With Martha's empathetic nature and excellent communication skills, Martha encourages her patients to open up about their struggles, aiding in their journey towards mental wellness.
![Photo of Laura Heidelmeier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e90569c7-3263-4d02-acb7-a530f631e7df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Heidelmeier is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Marquette University and her Master's degree in Psychiatric Nursing from Alverno College. Laura works with children and adolescents specializing in care for Eating Disorder, Depression, ADHD, OCD, and Anxiety, as well as adults for Eating Disorders. She helps her clients by listening to their needs in order to provide individualized care.
Laura Heidelmeier is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Marquette University and her Master's degree in Psychiatric Nursing from Alverno College. Laura works with children and adolescents specializing in care for Eating Disorder, Depression, ADHD, OCD, and Anxiety, as well as adults for Eating Disorders. She helps her clients by listening to their needs in order to provide individualized care.
![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.
Mental Wellness Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, Fauzia
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53221 (Online Only)
Fauzia has attained her master’s degree as a nurse practitioner with her specialization in mental health. As a PMHNP, Fauzia has dedicated her life to helping heal the mental being of her clients who meet her. Fauzia takes time to listen to her clients, whiles using her in-depth knowledge to help come up with a solution for the common goal of both parties. With her patient centered care approach, Fauzia focuses on the individuality of her patients and empowers them to take active role in their care.
Fauzia has attained her master’s degree as a nurse practitioner with her specialization in mental health. As a PMHNP, Fauzia has dedicated her life to helping heal the mental being of her clients who meet her. Fauzia takes time to listen to her clients, whiles using her in-depth knowledge to help come up with a solution for the common goal of both parties. With her patient centered care approach, Fauzia focuses on the individuality of her patients and empowers them to take active role in their care.
See more therapy options for Fond Du Lac County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fond Du Lac County, WI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Fond Du Lac County, WI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
75% | Anxiety |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
50% | Borderline Personality (BPD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in Fond Du Lac County, WI see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fond Du Lac 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.