Psychiatrists in Milwaukee, WI
![Photo of Maryan Torres, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28f84cba-b298-46bc-97e7-c37b9328ba49/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maryan Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and taking a holistic approach to treating the overall person. With regard to mental health medication management services and treatment, I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience but also value personal observation and intuition.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and taking a holistic approach to treating the overall person. With regard to mental health medication management services and treatment, I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience but also value personal observation and intuition.
![Photo of Larresha N Williams, MSN, PMHNP, APNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7073611b-841b-4cfe-9395-f703afaa604e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Larresha N Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APNP
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53216 (Online Only)
Imagine a world where your mental health is in harmony with your daily life – that's the vision I strive to turn into reality for each of my patients through virtual medication management and holistic support. Are you Struggling? My approach is tailored to address challenges head-on, with a compassionate focus on women's health and navigating life's many transitions. Whether you're a young adult starting your journey, or navigating the prime of your life, I'm here to listen, understand and empower you. Your wellness journey is unique and deserves personalised care that adapts to your evolving needs. LGBTQ+ friendly!
Imagine a world where your mental health is in harmony with your daily life – that's the vision I strive to turn into reality for each of my patients through virtual medication management and holistic support. Are you Struggling? My approach is tailored to address challenges head-on, with a compassionate focus on women's health and navigating life's many transitions. Whether you're a young adult starting your journey, or navigating the prime of your life, I'm here to listen, understand and empower you. Your wellness journey is unique and deserves personalised care that adapts to your evolving needs. LGBTQ+ friendly!
Sadie Washcovick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Apnp, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53222
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who graduated from Northern Kentucky University in 2023. With a diverse nursing background and a variety of experience, I provide care to individuals with mental health and substance abuse disorders. My professional journey has taken me through various healthcare settings including acute detox facilities, emergency rooms and correctional institutions. In each setting, I am committed to patient well-being, particularly in cases involving co-occurring disorders.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who graduated from Northern Kentucky University in 2023. With a diverse nursing background and a variety of experience, I provide care to individuals with mental health and substance abuse disorders. My professional journey has taken me through various healthcare settings including acute detox facilities, emergency rooms and correctional institutions. In each setting, I am committed to patient well-being, particularly in cases involving co-occurring disorders.
![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 Dr. Larry Sprung, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79d79035-541f-4be1-aa7f-6907a72f65d4/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Sprung’s main objective is to provide the highest level of psychiatric care to all his patients. He creates a safe, non-judgmental space for patients to work through their concerns as opportunities for healing, gaining purpose, and growth in a more meaningful way. Working together with his patients, Dr. Sprung addresses any challenges related to biological, psychological. emotional, social, or relational. He employs a biopsychosocial model, working in close collaboration with therapists and other members of the patient’s treatment team.
Dr. Sprung’s main objective is to provide the highest level of psychiatric care to all his patients. He creates a safe, non-judgmental space for patients to work through their concerns as opportunities for healing, gaining purpose, and growth in a more meaningful way. Working together with his patients, Dr. Sprung addresses any challenges related to biological, psychological. emotional, social, or relational. He employs a biopsychosocial model, working in close collaboration with therapists and other members of the patient’s treatment team.
![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 Thomas Wright, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c683236-e0e9-4c27-a52c-4e2686dec586/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Wright engages in wholistic care of children, youth, adults and their families who struggle with emotions and feelings, in much the same way a family physician supports a family in their medical needs. He has over 3 decades of experience helping families understand how to live their lives with fullest potential. He has particular interest in a positive approach to treating individuals with ADHD, depression and other mood disorders. He specializes in issues revolving around gender identity, LGBTQ, addiction, and family struggles. He is able to see patient in office, or virtually.
Dr Wright engages in wholistic care of children, youth, adults and their families who struggle with emotions and feelings, in much the same way a family physician supports a family in their medical needs. He has over 3 decades of experience helping families understand how to live their lives with fullest potential. He has particular interest in a positive approach to treating individuals with ADHD, depression and other mood disorders. He specializes in issues revolving around gender identity, LGBTQ, addiction, and family struggles. He is able to see patient in office, or virtually.
![Photo of Kate Meine - Tulaya Wellness - Kate Meine , DNP, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c7c403e-f501-44a6-8077-f160b4978724/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tulaya Wellness - Kate Meine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about working with people to reach their full potential. I help people reconnect to their mental and physical health. I am trained as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner as well as a Certified Nurse Midwife. My care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for highly individualized treatment in a non-judgmental and empathetic space. A thorough medical and psychiatric history will be obtained and together we will decide the best treatment options.
I am passionate about working with people to reach their full potential. I help people reconnect to their mental and physical health. I am trained as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner as well as a Certified Nurse Midwife. My care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for highly individualized treatment in a non-judgmental and empathetic space. A thorough medical and psychiatric history will be obtained and together we will decide the best treatment options.
![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 Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbc093fb-a50f-424f-885f-6722d22dc385/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![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.
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![Photo of John Thomas Olstad, PMHNP, APNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ff4d57-09bc-458b-8a3b-b97e5a992882/1/320x400.jpeg)
John Thomas Olstad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm John Olstad, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With 6 years of experience in the field, I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. I am also comfortable working with ADHD and addiction medications.
Hello, I'm John Olstad, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With 6 years of experience in the field, I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. I am also comfortable working with ADHD and addiction medications.
![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
Milwaukee, WI 53223
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)
![Photo of Kelly Theodore - Kelly Theodore , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae12cdd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Theodore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Kelly Theodore is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner who has been practicing in Wisconsin since 2015. She works with adults ages 18-65+ for psychiatric assessments and medication management. Kelly is passionate about working with people to reach their full potential by helping them reconnect to their mental and physical health. Her care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for a highly individualized treatment in an all-inclusive, non-judgmental and empathetic space.
Kelly Theodore is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner who has been practicing in Wisconsin since 2015. She works with adults ages 18-65+ for psychiatric assessments and medication management. Kelly is passionate about working with people to reach their full potential by helping them reconnect to their mental and physical health. Her care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for a highly individualized treatment in an all-inclusive, non-judgmental and empathetic space.
![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 Amy Dice, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5eaa108-015a-4485-ae2e-78219b3848ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients eighteen and older. Her background of more than fifteen years of experience in medicine offers her a wealth of first-hand knowledge, giving her an unmatched skillset in both understanding medical systems and in providing mental health care.
Amy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients eighteen and older. Her background of more than fifteen years of experience in medicine offers her a wealth of first-hand knowledge, giving her an unmatched skillset in both understanding medical systems and in providing mental health care.
![Photo of Dr. Robert Loiben, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ab9ca17-285d-4d51-96b2-db720fb1931b/1/320x400.png)
Robert Loiben, MD, has been treating individuals for over 30 years. His most important aspects of psychiatric care is the initial appointment; taking time to listen to the patient and to get a detailed history in order to formulate a diagnosis, a plan of care, as well as establish a good working relationship.
Robert Loiben, MD, has been treating individuals for over 30 years. His most important aspects of psychiatric care is the initial appointment; taking time to listen to the patient and to get a detailed history in order to formulate a diagnosis, a plan of care, as well as establish a good working relationship.
![Photo of Hong Yin - New Frontiers TMS LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41de4615-2eef-4598-b9aa-1c204577f91f/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Stefanie Bailey, MSN, BSN, RN, APNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/248b5449-9bd1-4a07-a386-21c42f590957/1/320x400.png)
Stefanie Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, BSN, RN, APNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53220
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.
See more therapy options for Milwaukee
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Milwaukee, WI
60+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Milwaukee, WI who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | ADHD |
71% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Milwaukee, WI see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Milwaukee?
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.