Psychiatrists in West Milwaukee, WI
There are no results for psychiatrists in West Milwaukee
Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Wisconsin below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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 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 Jessica Ramintho, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9cd9ce3-9840-441b-870e-3568bbf37a14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Ramintho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenfield, WI 53220
I specialize in treating adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. My aim is to improve your quality of life by offering therapeutic solutions.
I specialize in treating adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. My aim is to improve your quality of life by offering therapeutic solutions.
![Photo of 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 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 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.
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 Jackie Joachim, MSN, APNP, FNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d58db62-d587-47d2-b2b8-38bb22a05d5e/2/320x400.png)
Jackie Joachim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53220
Board-Certified in both Family Practice and Psychiatric-Mental Health. Highly skilled, compassionate, and solutions-oriented practitioner. Dedicated to providing exceptional care. Employed by American Behavioral Clinics since 2008 and has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare field. Ten years as an enlisted member with the United States armed forces.
Board-Certified in both Family Practice and Psychiatric-Mental Health. Highly skilled, compassionate, and solutions-oriented practitioner. Dedicated to providing exceptional care. Employed by American Behavioral Clinics since 2008 and has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare field. Ten years as an enlisted member with the United States armed forces.
![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
Milwaukee, WI 53202 (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 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 Regina Van Gorden, APNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7ea11c8-38dc-46fb-a528-f469578c4d23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Regina Van Gorden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53221 (Online Only)
Hello! I am accepting new patients, treat a variety of mental health conditions and typically have availability within one week. I have a special interest in helping those struggling with occupational and/or academic stress including first responders, nurses, therapists, teachers and students.
Hello! I am accepting new patients, treat a variety of mental health conditions and typically have availability within one week. I have a special interest in helping those struggling with occupational and/or academic stress including first responders, nurses, therapists, teachers and students.
![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 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 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 Bruce Semon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ee9c23b-8299-497e-a2e4-05fa23fe3c6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bruce Semon has practiced psychiatry in Ozaukee and the surrounding counties since 1997. He provides a full range of psychiatric medication services for adults, adolescents and children. He is particularly helpful to patients who have experienced medication failures or intolerable side effects. He attends well and closely to his patients, understanding that sometimes their primary care or other doctors have not understood or not responded well to them, leaving patients feeling frustrated and upset.
Dr. Bruce Semon has practiced psychiatry in Ozaukee and the surrounding counties since 1997. He provides a full range of psychiatric medication services for adults, adolescents and children. He is particularly helpful to patients who have experienced medication failures or intolerable side effects. He attends well and closely to his patients, understanding that sometimes their primary care or other doctors have not understood or not responded well to them, leaving patients feeling frustrated and upset.
![Photo of Susan J Bloom, PsyD, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b40779b0-bc22-490d-b1ac-89f649407d9d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan J Bloom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, APRN
Verified Verified
Hales Corners, WI 53130 (Online Only)
The education and experiences of 25+ years, have given me the skills of evaluating and treating a multitude of life situations. I treat clients who are adults, couples, teens, and children. Problems may include marriages that are off track, have communication problems, lack intimacy, affairs; individuals stress in life resulting from divorce, work, family, loss; teens and children with trauma, loss, family changes, difficulties with peers, trouble focusing on school work, change in grades, increasing irritability; families concerned about a family member, having communication struggles, divorce recovery and/or other family trauma.
The education and experiences of 25+ years, have given me the skills of evaluating and treating a multitude of life situations. I treat clients who are adults, couples, teens, and children. Problems may include marriages that are off track, have communication problems, lack intimacy, affairs; individuals stress in life resulting from divorce, work, family, loss; teens and children with trauma, loss, family changes, difficulties with peers, trouble focusing on school work, change in grades, increasing irritability; families concerned about a family member, having communication struggles, divorce recovery and/or other family trauma.
![Photo of Dr. Matt Weinlander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d676d1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, and thanks for visiting my profile! I focus on providing personalized, expert, and compassionate mental healthcare in a safe, confidential environment. The cornerstone of my practice is existential psychotherapy and mindful awareness. Through careful examination of your inner life, I will help you identify the processes that are interfering with how you would like to respond or adapt to work, school, or life situations without being burdened by past memories, "scripts," ruminative thoughts, or compulsive behaviors.
Hello, and thanks for visiting my profile! I focus on providing personalized, expert, and compassionate mental healthcare in a safe, confidential environment. The cornerstone of my practice is existential psychotherapy and mindful awareness. Through careful examination of your inner life, I will help you identify the processes that are interfering with how you would like to respond or adapt to work, school, or life situations without being burdened by past memories, "scripts," ruminative thoughts, or compulsive behaviors.
![Photo of Veena Tripathi Ahuja, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e664e20-c0bd-46e2-8d60-9358bcff8e14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veena Tripathi Ahuja
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
5 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 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 Andrew Sievila, PMHNP, PMHCNS, APNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14e2f482-e468-42ff-9519-2aa864576d52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Sievila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMHCNS, APNP
Verified Verified
Franklin, WI 53132
Andrew Sievila is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2014. He has a Bachelor’s in Psychology from University of Wisconsin and a Master’s of Science in Nursing from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Andrew served more than 10 years in the Army and was deployed to Iraq between 2006-2007. He has extensive experience as well working with veterans who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Andrew likes to incorporate non-medication options for clients as well to help improve their mental health.
Andrew Sievila is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2014. He has a Bachelor’s in Psychology from University of Wisconsin and a Master’s of Science in Nursing from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Andrew served more than 10 years in the Army and was deployed to Iraq between 2006-2007. He has extensive experience as well working with veterans who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Andrew likes to incorporate non-medication options for clients as well to help improve their mental health.
See more therapy options for West Milwaukee
Nearby Searches for West Milwaukee
- Brookfield
- Butler
- Glendale
- Greenfield
- Hales Corners
- Menomonee Falls
- Mequon
- Milwaukee
- Oak Creek
- Pewaukee
- Waukesha
- Wauwatosa
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in West Milwaukee, WI
< 10
Psychiatrists in West Milwaukee, WI who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in West Milwaukee, WI see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in West 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.