Psychiatrists in Menomonee Falls, WI
![Photo of Raymond Kloss, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc9c7045-773b-48ec-8d5c-7a5dbb29485a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Raymond Kloss is a Psychiatrist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 1992. Raymond treats affective, psychotic, and anxiety disorders in adults. As a specialist in anxiety disorders, he will be working with therapists to help people manage their anxiety to function better in life. Raymond enjoys working with patients to help figure out the best approach and treatment and believes in the combination of medications and therapy. In his free time, Raymond enjoys photography and travel.
Raymond Kloss is a Psychiatrist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 1992. Raymond treats affective, psychotic, and anxiety disorders in adults. As a specialist in anxiety disorders, he will be working with therapists to help people manage their anxiety to function better in life. Raymond enjoys working with patients to help figure out the best approach and treatment and believes in the combination of medications and therapy. In his free time, Raymond enjoys photography and travel.
![Photo of Elaine Wessel, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccacbd01-a9cf-457c-9fa5-cfae6e7ce6af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elaine Wessel is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the Brookfield, Wisconsin office. With a background in Family Practice and Women s Health Nursing, she entered the Mental Health field in 2015 and graduated in 2021 with her MSN from Alverno College. Elaine has worked with clients in the inpatient, partial hospitalization PHP , and intensive outpatient IOP settings, and has a special interest in treating depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Elaine offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management tailored to each unique client s needs.
Elaine Wessel is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the Brookfield, Wisconsin office. With a background in Family Practice and Women s Health Nursing, she entered the Mental Health field in 2015 and graduated in 2021 with her MSN from Alverno College. Elaine has worked with clients in the inpatient, partial hospitalization PHP , and intensive outpatient IOP settings, and has a special interest in treating depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Elaine offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management tailored to each unique client s needs.
![Photo of Lauri Lowenbraun, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a773dd5a-e46c-4715-8c66-ddcfbc71a50e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lauri Lowenbraun is a board certified adult psychiatrist who has been treating patients in the Milwaukee area for over twenty years. Following her residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where she served as Chief Resident, she settled locally to provide care for the psychiatric needs in her community. Dr. Lowenbraun enjoys treating a full range of psychiatric conditions in adults 18 years and older. Her primary focus, however, includes the treatment of all mood and anxiety disorders. She further values the supportive therapeutic alliance she establishes with her patients.
Dr. Lauri Lowenbraun is a board certified adult psychiatrist who has been treating patients in the Milwaukee area for over twenty years. Following her residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where she served as Chief Resident, she settled locally to provide care for the psychiatric needs in her community. Dr. Lowenbraun enjoys treating a full range of psychiatric conditions in adults 18 years and older. Her primary focus, however, includes the treatment of all mood and anxiety disorders. She further values the supportive therapeutic alliance she establishes with her patients.
![Photo of Daniel Noll, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac263152-7831-4d0c-9be7-4c3b2c0301a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Noll is a board-certified counselor and psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health-Brookfield location. He treats adults who are dealing with a variety of mental health struggles including mood and anxiety spectrum disorders. In addition to outpatient psychiatry he worked at Rogers Behavioral Health from 2014-2022 servicing inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs. Prior to 2014, he worked at Bayview Behavioral Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Dr. Noll is a board-certified counselor and psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health-Brookfield location. He treats adults who are dealing with a variety of mental health struggles including mood and anxiety spectrum disorders. In addition to outpatient psychiatry he worked at Rogers Behavioral Health from 2014-2022 servicing inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs. Prior to 2014, he worked at Bayview Behavioral Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Dr. Hilary Tesch is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. Hilary has a Bachelor's in Nursing from Carroll University, a Master's of Nursing from Alverno College, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. Dr. Tesch offers a safe space for clients to have a session focusing on their needs in the moment. Dr. Tesch believes in positive therapeutic rapport, with the client being the expert of their life and needs. Dr. Tesch offers education, therapy, and medication management in all sessions.
Dr. Hilary Tesch is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. Hilary has a Bachelor's in Nursing from Carroll University, a Master's of Nursing from Alverno College, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. Dr. Tesch offers a safe space for clients to have a session focusing on their needs in the moment. Dr. Tesch believes in positive therapeutic rapport, with the client being the expert of their life and needs. Dr. Tesch offers education, therapy, and medication management in all sessions.
![Photo of Jillian Rouleau, NP, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cad61b7a-afe6-44ba-9847-539d6c0c0696/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jillian M. Rouleau is a dually board-certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of California, Fresno, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post Graduate Certification from Maryville University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Rouleau draws from over 15 years of diverse experience in healthcare and uses up to date evidence-based research and recommendations to guide her practice.
Dr. Jillian M. Rouleau is a dually board-certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of California, Fresno, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post Graduate Certification from Maryville University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Rouleau draws from over 15 years of diverse experience in healthcare and uses up to date evidence-based research and recommendations to guide her practice.
![Photo of Kang Yang, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0a73c29-7de2-49b4-aee1-a79a19edf60b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kang Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
Accepting new clients. I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about helping clients navigate through life's challenges and finding solutions to achieve their goals. I believe in creating a safe space with compassion, utmost respect, and non-judgement. I strive to ensure that my clients feel comfortable and supported in their healing process through collaboration and partnership with them. It is a privilege for me to help my clients develop treatment plans that create meaningful change, lead them to a more fulfilling life, and finding their voice along with peace.
Accepting new clients. I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about helping clients navigate through life's challenges and finding solutions to achieve their goals. I believe in creating a safe space with compassion, utmost respect, and non-judgement. I strive to ensure that my clients feel comfortable and supported in their healing process through collaboration and partnership with them. It is a privilege for me to help my clients develop treatment plans that create meaningful change, lead them to a more fulfilling life, and finding their voice along with peace.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Chelsea Schwartz, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6903d66-1383-4052-ac04-e4155f7a9b9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
We offer the array of psychiatric services and the convenience of telehealth!
We offer the array of psychiatric services and the convenience of telehealth!
![Photo of Robin Coleman, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d36dcb82-6992-4b25-afba-c0b1f7af0563/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Prescriber, Robin has been providing psychiatric services to clients of Southeast Wisconsin for 30 years. She along with three colleagues obtained the first independent contract for advanced practice nurse prescribers in southeast Wisconsin. She received her Bachelor s degree from Marquette University, her Graduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and her Pharmacology education at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She is state certified in both therapy and as a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Prescriber, Robin has been providing psychiatric services to clients of Southeast Wisconsin for 30 years. She along with three colleagues obtained the first independent contract for advanced practice nurse prescribers in southeast Wisconsin. She received her Bachelor s degree from Marquette University, her Graduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and her Pharmacology education at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She is state certified in both therapy and as a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner.
![Photo of Elizabeth Hamlin, MD, MA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40af2680-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with patients who are looking for a deeper understanding of their lives and struggles. While I do believe that symptom relief is important, I also believe it is important to address the underlying situations that have brought the symptoms about and that often cause them to recur. I provide both psychoanalysis and psychodynamic psychotherapy, in which I focus on the importance of interpersonal relationships, including the here-and-now of the relationship with the therapist, to help patients break free of old patterns and to live freer and more authentic lives.
I enjoy working with patients who are looking for a deeper understanding of their lives and struggles. While I do believe that symptom relief is important, I also believe it is important to address the underlying situations that have brought the symptoms about and that often cause them to recur. I provide both psychoanalysis and psychodynamic psychotherapy, in which I focus on the importance of interpersonal relationships, including the here-and-now of the relationship with the therapist, to help patients break free of old patterns and to live freer and more authentic lives.
![Photo of Nicole Bartelt, MSN, APNP, ANP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfb382b6-2ef9-4c59-a487-00d4984a756d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Bartelt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, ANP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53226
Accepting new patients. Nicole focuses on developing trust and therapeutic relationships with the patients and families she works with. She has a strong passion for treating patients holistically. She is dedicated to reducing stigma regarding mental health and helping patients achieve their goals and live full lives. Prior to specializing in mental health, Nicole has practiced as a nurse practitioner in acute care setting for past 8 years.
Accepting new patients. Nicole focuses on developing trust and therapeutic relationships with the patients and families she works with. She has a strong passion for treating patients holistically. She is dedicated to reducing stigma regarding mental health and helping patients achieve their goals and live full lives. Prior to specializing in mental health, Nicole has practiced as a nurse practitioner in acute care setting for past 8 years.
![Photo of Carolyn Davidson, RN, BSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcf25d12-b678-4d60-bb97-b69fd4fdb483/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn’s strength is her ability to build a strong rapport with her patients. Effective communication with patients is a priority, and she takes the time with each patient, she ensures all questions and concerns are addressed. She personally strives to make all patients feel respected, welcomed, and valued while treating symptoms and meeting treatment goals.
Carolyn’s strength is her ability to build a strong rapport with her patients. Effective communication with patients is a priority, and she takes the time with each patient, she ensures all questions and concerns are addressed. She personally strives to make all patients feel respected, welcomed, and valued while treating symptoms and meeting treatment goals.
![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 Mary Pintarro - Providence Psychiatric Services , MSN, APNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fb734e2-5b2c-48c4-a1aa-b1c8f693236d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Providence Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005 (Online Only)
Seeing new clients within 3 weeks! I offer evening follow up appointments and weekend intake appointments to ensure you don't struggle without treatment. If you are looking for a provider to ensure you have ability to be seen in a timely fashion, please reach out. I am licensed in multiple states for clients who travel.
Seeing new clients within 3 weeks! I offer evening follow up appointments and weekend intake appointments to ensure you don't struggle without treatment. If you are looking for a provider to ensure you have ability to be seen in a timely fashion, please reach out. I am licensed in multiple states for clients who travel.
![Photo of Ann LeBaron - Stress Management and Mental Health, MS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec84082d-cb02-4517-8e11-6af3c261db28/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stress Management and Mental Health
Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Hi, I provide medication management at Wisconsin Stress Management. I see patents who are self referred, as well as, referred by their therapist or other providers. I provide evaluation and treatment of a variety of mental health symptoms.
Hi, I provide medication management at Wisconsin Stress Management. I see patents who are self referred, as well as, referred by their therapist or other providers. I provide evaluation and treatment of a variety of mental health symptoms.
![Photo of Sarah Wawrzyniak, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b75c4d4-9e80-4b75-bb46-44102397b4d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Wawrzyniak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Brookfield, WI 53045 (Online Only)
I have a passion for Healing. From an early age, I was drawn to the intricate tapestry of the human mind. This passion led me to pursue a career in Psychiatry, where I have dedicated myself to understanding and addressing the diverse challenges that individuals face in their mental health journey. I enjoy treating children and adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, trauma, and eating disorders.
I have a passion for Healing. From an early age, I was drawn to the intricate tapestry of the human mind. This passion led me to pursue a career in Psychiatry, where I have dedicated myself to understanding and addressing the diverse challenges that individuals face in their mental health journey. I enjoy treating children and adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, trauma, and eating disorders.
![Photo of Rachel Glick, APNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b1c095a-1a7f-4bf0-9645-dd74b2f2eb29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients for med management. Rachel is a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric/mental health with current availability and is accepted by major insurance providers. Her passion for your pursuit of better mental health is evident in every interaction. She is dedicated to creating a therapeutic and safe environment with an ongoing commitment to providing the best care possible. Her practice is centered around the individual and takes a holistic and personalized approach to your care
Accepting new patients for med management. Rachel is a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric/mental health with current availability and is accepted by major insurance providers. Her passion for your pursuit of better mental health is evident in every interaction. She is dedicated to creating a therapeutic and safe environment with an ongoing commitment to providing the best care possible. Her practice is centered around the individual and takes a holistic and personalized approach to your care
![Photo of Nicole Maki-Rydland, APNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d17763bc-10b9-4467-9a19-428b7490b8ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Maki-Rydland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
*Accepting new patients* Nicole is board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She is very excited to draw on her 18 years of nursing experience and her previous licensure as a counselor to provide a full spectrum of psychiatric care. She is always researching new and better ways to help people accomplish their mental health goals. Her practice is client-centered, holistic, and tailored to meet both medical and counseling goals of individuals. She has a huge interest in helping people meet their goals with natural medications/supplements and with the help of genetic testing for individuals that interested.
*Accepting new patients* Nicole is board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She is very excited to draw on her 18 years of nursing experience and her previous licensure as a counselor to provide a full spectrum of psychiatric care. She is always researching new and better ways to help people accomplish their mental health goals. Her practice is client-centered, holistic, and tailored to meet both medical and counseling goals of individuals. She has a huge interest in helping people meet their goals with natural medications/supplements and with the help of genetic testing for individuals that interested.
![Photo of Andrea Mitchell, MSN, BSN, RN, APNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c650202-4c4b-45d5-be15-4ea4141cea60/2/320x400.png)
Andrea Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BSN, RN, APNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53226
Andrea Mitchell is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has worked within the mental health field for the last nine years in the acute care, inpatient setting. It was her desire to have a meaningful impact on the mental health field in a different capacity that led her towards becoming a PMHNP. She leads her practice with empathy and by putting the patient at the center of their care. Through open communication, she works towards building a meaningful rapport with her patients to ensure they feel heard and valued.
Andrea Mitchell is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has worked within the mental health field for the last nine years in the acute care, inpatient setting. It was her desire to have a meaningful impact on the mental health field in a different capacity that led her towards becoming a PMHNP. She leads her practice with empathy and by putting the patient at the center of their care. Through open communication, she works towards building a meaningful rapport with her patients to ensure they feel heard and valued.
![Photo of Mary Pintarro, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bae7082b-b566-429b-8afd-a0e135debd26/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Pintarro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, WI 53005 (Online Only)
Scheduling new clients within 2 weeks! I provide supportive psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management. I strive for personalized service for each and every client. I speak candidly about how to be successful in a treatment plan and what the most up to date best practices are for complicated psychiatric disorders. I am licensed in multiple states for those who travel.
Scheduling new clients within 2 weeks! I provide supportive psychotherapy and psychiatric medication management. I strive for personalized service for each and every client. I speak candidly about how to be successful in a treatment plan and what the most up to date best practices are for complicated psychiatric disorders. I am licensed in multiple states for those who travel.
See more therapy options for Menomonee Falls
Nearby Searches for Menomonee Falls
- Brookfield
- Butler
- Glendale
- Grafton
- Greenfield
- Hales Corners
- Hartford
- Mequon
- Milwaukee
- Pewaukee
- Waukesha
- Wauwatosa
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Menomonee Falls, WI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Menomonee Falls, WI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Medication Management |
63% | ADHD |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Humana |
100% | Other |
How Psychiatrists in Menomonee Falls, WI see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
42% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Menomonee Falls?
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.