Psychiatrists in Minnesota
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
Lilian Omodi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fridley, MN 55432
We are seeing new clients and are focused on providing compassionate care to people with various mental health struggles. We provide client centered care for Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Trauma, Schizophrenia, ADHD and other psychiatric needs.
We are seeing new clients and are focused on providing compassionate care to people with various mental health struggles. We provide client centered care for Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Trauma, Schizophrenia, ADHD and other psychiatric needs.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Ediomi 'edee' Enebong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55437 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
Princess Gehyigon-Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fridley, MN 55432
Have you experienced some kind of trauma or emotional challenge, or perhaps have been struggling with a mental health issue for some time? Are you open to exploring your feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment, and be willing to work hard to create positive change? Do you have a desire to learn how to manage your emotions and create healthier relationships with yourself and others? Martha’s Open Hands can help you, your child, or loved one by creating an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based practice that is safe and effective.
Have you experienced some kind of trauma or emotional challenge, or perhaps have been struggling with a mental health issue for some time? Are you open to exploring your feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment, and be willing to work hard to create positive change? Do you have a desire to learn how to manage your emotions and create healthier relationships with yourself and others? Martha’s Open Hands can help you, your child, or loved one by creating an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based practice that is safe and effective.
Genevieve Utley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I diagnose, treat, and prescribe for mental health conditions, including Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, and Prenatal & Postpartum mental health. I treat adults at my Minneapolis clinic, providing in-person and telehealth visits. My practice is gender-affirming, LGBTQIA+ positive, and anti-racist. I provide medication management, and I also offer psychotherapy as well as functional and integrative medicine such as nutrition, nutritional supplements, plant/herbal medicine, mindfulness, movement, and other modalities. I will listen to and honor your expertise about your own lived experience.
I diagnose, treat, and prescribe for mental health conditions, including Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, OCD, and Prenatal & Postpartum mental health. I treat adults at my Minneapolis clinic, providing in-person and telehealth visits. My practice is gender-affirming, LGBTQIA+ positive, and anti-racist. I provide medication management, and I also offer psychotherapy as well as functional and integrative medicine such as nutrition, nutritional supplements, plant/herbal medicine, mindfulness, movement, and other modalities. I will listen to and honor your expertise about your own lived experience.
Equilibrium Brain Body Balance
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Need Balance?! Equilibrium Brain Body Balance is all about helping you find balance in your life. Meeting you where you are in your mental health journey. We offer approaches that allow our patients to engage in traditional therapies or interactive therapies; talk, art therapies, to physical activities and interactive spaces. Available Services; psychiatry, psychotherapy, diagnosis. Equilibrium offers zen zones, meditation areas, physical engagement spaces. Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health services that will help you see a reduction in your mental health symptoms, while aiding to create balance in your life.
Need Balance?! Equilibrium Brain Body Balance is all about helping you find balance in your life. Meeting you where you are in your mental health journey. We offer approaches that allow our patients to engage in traditional therapies or interactive therapies; talk, art therapies, to physical activities and interactive spaces. Available Services; psychiatry, psychotherapy, diagnosis. Equilibrium offers zen zones, meditation areas, physical engagement spaces. Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health services that will help you see a reduction in your mental health symptoms, while aiding to create balance in your life.
Andrietta Wright Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55106
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
Selah Wellness Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, SANE, ART
Verified Verified
Sandstone, MN 55072
We work with you on your health. We are here to help you, walk with you on your journey and help you to feel better.
We work with you on your health. We are here to help you, walk with you on your journey and help you to feel better.
Emily Luitjens is a highly qualified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions, including caring for patients with dementia. She provides compassionate, collaborative and holistic care.
Emily Luitjens is a highly qualified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in a wide variety of mental health conditions, including caring for patients with dementia. She provides compassionate, collaborative and holistic care.
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Candra Smith
Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees in Nursing from The College of St. Scholastica. Krista provides a nonjudgmental approach to patient centered care and tries to avoid the "one size fits all" approach to patient care. Outside of work, Krista really loves to travel and explore new places. Hiking is one of her favorite activities, especially when the weather is nice.
Krista Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Minnesota who has been practicing since 2015. She holds undergrad and graduate degrees in Nursing from The College of St. Scholastica. Krista provides a nonjudgmental approach to patient centered care and tries to avoid the "one size fits all" approach to patient care. Outside of work, Krista really loves to travel and explore new places. Hiking is one of her favorite activities, especially when the weather is nice.
Ediomi 'edee' Enebong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
Have you ever felt rushed through a mental health visit? Have you ever felt like "just" a diagnosis or collection of symptoms? You are more than that: You are a complex and whole human being, and you have a right to be seen. I am committed to establishing a deep level of trust with each client, which I hope will serve as the foundation for our therapeutic alliance. I take the time to get to know each of my patients, understanding their individual experiences and needs, and working with them to develop effective strategies for managing their mental health. Find out more at www.pleasantplacepsychiatry.com.
Laurel Edinburgh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CPNP, PMHS
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403 (Online Only)
I treat children, adolescents, and young adults with ADHD, Depression and Anxiety. I have a subspecialty interest in adolescent health and am an expert on how families can foster resiliency for their children and adolescents. I use a collaborative approach in my practice. I enjoy working closely with parents to help them support their child's recovery.
I treat children, adolescents, and young adults with ADHD, Depression and Anxiety. I have a subspecialty interest in adolescent health and am an expert on how families can foster resiliency for their children and adolescents. I use a collaborative approach in my practice. I enjoy working closely with parents to help them support their child's recovery.
Joanna Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take pride in listening to people’s stories and learning who they are as an individual. I am committed to utilizing culturally competent, person-centered, holistic, trauma-informed approach to treat clients. My goal is to develop a trusting relationship with clients so that clients can actively participate in the development and implementation of an individualized treatment plan that fits their needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I take pride in listening to people’s stories and learning who they are as an individual. I am committed to utilizing culturally competent, person-centered, holistic, trauma-informed approach to treat clients. My goal is to develop a trusting relationship with clients so that clients can actively participate in the development and implementation of an individualized treatment plan that fits their needs.
Karl Olson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55439
I have immediate openings at SensibleMentalHealth.com. Make your life easier by removing the barriers of traditional psychiatric care. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience serving adults with mood, anxiety, thought, trauma, eating, and substance use disorders. I believe in teaching people about the intricacies of mental illness and treatment and advocating for their recovery. I believe medications play a powerful – yet in some cases proportionally small – role in mental health recovery. I am authentic, direct, and empathetic.
I have immediate openings at SensibleMentalHealth.com. Make your life easier by removing the barriers of traditional psychiatric care. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience serving adults with mood, anxiety, thought, trauma, eating, and substance use disorders. I believe in teaching people about the intricacies of mental illness and treatment and advocating for their recovery. I believe medications play a powerful – yet in some cases proportionally small – role in mental health recovery. I am authentic, direct, and empathetic.
I work with patients who experience Perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, life changes, stress, grief/loss, mindfulness, and coping skills.
I work with patients who experience Perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, life changes, stress, grief/loss, mindfulness, and coping skills.
Navigating the mental health system can be very difficult. I believe that building a trusting relationship with your provider can help you move forward and improve your quality of life. My education and very close experiences with mental health and addiction(s) in people close to me, have helped me understand better what you might be going through. Easier said than done but the more you try the more successful you will be.
Navigating the mental health system can be very difficult. I believe that building a trusting relationship with your provider can help you move forward and improve your quality of life. My education and very close experiences with mental health and addiction(s) in people close to me, have helped me understand better what you might be going through. Easier said than done but the more you try the more successful you will be.
TMS Center at Sonder Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55343
Are you (or is someone you care about) struggling with severe depression that hasn’t improved, no matter what you’ve tried? We’re excited to introduce you to our newest offering at Sonder: TMS. It’s safe. Effective. Drug-free. And covered by most insurance companies. To learn more, visit us at www.sonderwellness.com
Are you (or is someone you care about) struggling with severe depression that hasn’t improved, no matter what you’ve tried? We’re excited to introduce you to our newest offering at Sonder: TMS. It’s safe. Effective. Drug-free. And covered by most insurance companies. To learn more, visit us at www.sonderwellness.com
I welcome the diversity of all people and approach everyone as a priority. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. As your advocate, I strive to enhance your personal wellbeing through honest and transparent communication. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and for what is important to you. To me, you are not just my client, you are a unique and valuable person, who happens to be my client. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
I welcome the diversity of all people and approach everyone as a priority. I encourage a collaborative approach that facilitates clients becoming active participants in their care. As your advocate, I strive to enhance your personal wellbeing through honest and transparent communication. I will do my best to understand you for who you are and for what is important to you. To me, you are not just my client, you are a unique and valuable person, who happens to be my client. In my care, you can be free to be you, and be free to be well. Together, we work to help you get back to who you were meant to be, back to feeling simply whole.
See more therapy options for Minnesota
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Minnesota who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Medication Management |
72% | ADHD |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
78% | Aetna |
77% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Minnesota see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Minnesota?
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.