Psychiatrists in Hennepin County, MN
Allysa Jacobson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Allysa Jacobson, PMHNP, is a dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health in Minnesota. She is committed to providing compassionate, highquality mental health care by partnering with her clients to create holistic and personcentered treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Allysa serves adults and seniors, addressing mental health challenges and promoting wellbeing across Minnesota. With a strong focus on anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, Allysa is passionate about helping clients navigate these complex conditions.
Allysa Jacobson, PMHNP, is a dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health in Minnesota. She is committed to providing compassionate, highquality mental health care by partnering with her clients to create holistic and personcentered treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Allysa serves adults and seniors, addressing mental health challenges and promoting wellbeing across Minnesota. With a strong focus on anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, Allysa is passionate about helping clients navigate these complex conditions.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
As an experienced psychiatrist, I provide a range of services via telemedicine. These include diagnostic assessments, follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive therapy. I utilize electronic-prescriptions, sending them directly to your pharmacy. I graduated and completed residency in 1999 at the University of Minnesota Medical School. What sets my practice apart is the autonomy I enjoy in my private practice. This freedom allows me to allocate the necessary time to each patient, ensuring that I provide the highest standard of care, tailored to your unique needs.
As an experienced psychiatrist, I provide a range of services via telemedicine. These include diagnostic assessments, follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive therapy. I utilize electronic-prescriptions, sending them directly to your pharmacy. I graduated and completed residency in 1999 at the University of Minnesota Medical School. What sets my practice apart is the autonomy I enjoy in my private practice. This freedom allows me to allocate the necessary time to each patient, ensuring that I provide the highest standard of care, tailored to your unique needs.
Lindsey Hatcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maple Grove, MN 55369
My passion is fueled by a sincere desire to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals navigating mental health challenges. With a unique blend of clinical expertise and genuine empathy, I am dedicated to creating a supportive environment where individuals can find comfort and strength in their mental health journey. I apply a holistic perspective, recognizing that mental well-being is intricately connected to various aspects of one's life. Immediate openings are available both online and in person.
My passion is fueled by a sincere desire to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals navigating mental health challenges. With a unique blend of clinical expertise and genuine empathy, I am dedicated to creating a supportive environment where individuals can find comfort and strength in their mental health journey. I apply a holistic perspective, recognizing that mental well-being is intricately connected to various aspects of one's life. Immediate openings are available both online and in person.
Heather Teske
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406 (Online Only)
I work with individuals with depression, anxiety, life stress, schizophrenia, developmental delays, BIPOC, LGTBQIA+ and those wanting change from substance abuse. I strive to work with clients sharing my experience, scientific research, and their goal to reach their highest potential. I have experience working with ages 16+ in areas of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), inpatient and outpatient co-occurring mental and substance use programs, serious and persistent mental illness, developmental delays/ASD, MAT (suboxone/vivitrol/naltrexone) and more.
I work with individuals with depression, anxiety, life stress, schizophrenia, developmental delays, BIPOC, LGTBQIA+ and those wanting change from substance abuse. I strive to work with clients sharing my experience, scientific research, and their goal to reach their highest potential. I have experience working with ages 16+ in areas of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), inpatient and outpatient co-occurring mental and substance use programs, serious and persistent mental illness, developmental delays/ASD, MAT (suboxone/vivitrol/naltrexone) and more.
John Lichtsinn, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist and PTSD specialist. Following his medical training and residency at the University of Minnesota, he worked 11 years at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, where he served as the PTSD treatment team’s Medical Director and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota. Most recently, Dr. Lichtsinn served as Director of Psychedelic Psychiatry at Intero Psychedelic Therapy specialty clinic, where he had the privilege of learning and practicing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
John Lichtsinn, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist and PTSD specialist. Following his medical training and residency at the University of Minnesota, he worked 11 years at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, where he served as the PTSD treatment team’s Medical Director and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota. Most recently, Dr. Lichtsinn served as Director of Psychedelic Psychiatry at Intero Psychedelic Therapy specialty clinic, where he had the privilege of learning and practicing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
Haley Carlock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55446 (Online Only)
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
Dr. Carlock is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adolescents and adults with a special interest in treating individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. In addition to prescribing medication, Dr. Carlock utilizes skills learned from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine to help individuals treat their mental health symptoms in a more holistic way. She completed the Professional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine, the Advanced Mind-Body Medicine Professional Training Program, and other online webinars.
Susan Njuakom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55413 (Online Only)
Sue (she/her) specializes in providing individualized, holistic, evidence-based, and culturally sensitive care to her patients. Sue enjoys serving BIPOC and LGBTQA populations and is a firm believer in collaborative care where patients are an active participant in their own care. She has worked at various community mental health centers, mental health crisis stabilization centers, the department of corrections, and at various inpatient mental health/substance abuse treatment centers.
Sue (she/her) specializes in providing individualized, holistic, evidence-based, and culturally sensitive care to her patients. Sue enjoys serving BIPOC and LGBTQA populations and is a firm believer in collaborative care where patients are an active participant in their own care. She has worked at various community mental health centers, mental health crisis stabilization centers, the department of corrections, and at various inpatient mental health/substance abuse treatment centers.
Natalie Brandsrud
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55446 (Online Only)
Natalie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 6 to 25. In her practice, she strives to create an environment in which each patient feels understood and genuinely cared for. With extended appointment times, she has the ability to listen to every individual story. She enjoys getting to know her patients and believes that building a warm and trusting relationship is crucial for success. She brings friendly smiles and optimism into her everyday practice.
Natalie is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents, and young adults ages 6 to 25. In her practice, she strives to create an environment in which each patient feels understood and genuinely cared for. With extended appointment times, she has the ability to listen to every individual story. She enjoys getting to know her patients and believes that building a warm and trusting relationship is crucial for success. She brings friendly smiles and optimism into her everyday practice.
Funsho King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
My name is Funsho King, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc. throughout the lifespan. My goal as a provider is to provide the care that you deserve. I am a good listener, compassionate, genuine, and empathetic.
My name is Funsho King, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc. throughout the lifespan. My goal as a provider is to provide the care that you deserve. I am a good listener, compassionate, genuine, and empathetic.
James T. Fiske has worked as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2020, after obtaining his graduate degree from the University of Arizona with honors and then passing the board exam. He worked as an outpatient provider for homeless people with a history of substance abuse and other comorbid psychiatric conditions. He later and currently works as a crisis provider with over a year of experience in that field.
James T. Fiske has worked as a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2020, after obtaining his graduate degree from the University of Arizona with honors and then passing the board exam. He worked as an outpatient provider for homeless people with a history of substance abuse and other comorbid psychiatric conditions. He later and currently works as a crisis provider with over a year of experience in that field.
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Anthony Shabrack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Anthony Shabrack (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner in Minnesota with over 12 years experience in psychiatric nursing and mental health care. He studied at Walden University where he earned a Master of Science in Nursing and is now a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is Board Certified by the ANCC. Anthony views mental health as the cornerstone of a person’s overall health. He believes that in order for a person to be truly healthy, their mental health must first in a good state.
Anthony Shabrack (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner in Minnesota with over 12 years experience in psychiatric nursing and mental health care. He studied at Walden University where he earned a Master of Science in Nursing and is now a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is Board Certified by the ANCC. Anthony views mental health as the cornerstone of a person’s overall health. He believes that in order for a person to be truly healthy, their mental health must first in a good state.
With a holistic and patient-centered approach, Tiffany crafts personalized treatment plans rooted in evidence-based practices. Driven by a genuine desire for her patients' well-being, Tiffany empowers them to achieve optimal mental health. Committed to ongoing education, she stays updated on the latest advancements in psychiatric care, ensuring top-notch treatment for those under her care.
With a holistic and patient-centered approach, Tiffany crafts personalized treatment plans rooted in evidence-based practices. Driven by a genuine desire for her patients' well-being, Tiffany empowers them to achieve optimal mental health. Committed to ongoing education, she stays updated on the latest advancements in psychiatric care, ensuring top-notch treatment for those under her care.
I am board certified in adult psychiatry, child psychiatry, and psychoanalysis. I offer psychoanalytic treatment, ranging from weekly psychoanalytic psychotherapy to psychoanalysis. I prescribe medications to help patients feel good enough to engage more fully in their lives and therapy. The benefits of such treatment not just symptom alleviation, but permanent desired changes and expanded self-knowledge that improve the quality and depth of one's life. Psychoanalytic treatment is aimed towards permanent improvement and improved mental and physical health. It leads to expanded possibilities in relationships and work and an increased sense of agency in one's life.
I am board certified in adult psychiatry, child psychiatry, and psychoanalysis. I offer psychoanalytic treatment, ranging from weekly psychoanalytic psychotherapy to psychoanalysis. I prescribe medications to help patients feel good enough to engage more fully in their lives and therapy. The benefits of such treatment not just symptom alleviation, but permanent desired changes and expanded self-knowledge that improve the quality and depth of one's life. Psychoanalytic treatment is aimed towards permanent improvement and improved mental and physical health. It leads to expanded possibilities in relationships and work and an increased sense of agency in one's life.
Medications are often necessary to treat psychiatric illnesses. Our prescribers take care to recommend psychiatric medications and dosages that are most effective at specifically targeting the patient's symptoms, without over-medicating patients. Whether we are starting new medications or streamlining a patient's current medications, our goal is to provide successful management of psychiatric symptoms with minimal side effects. We believe that providing psychiatric care is about treating the whole patient. We consider other medical conditions that may play a role in a person's mental health, and we encourage behavioral and cognitive skills to improve overall mental health.
Medications are often necessary to treat psychiatric illnesses. Our prescribers take care to recommend psychiatric medications and dosages that are most effective at specifically targeting the patient's symptoms, without over-medicating patients. Whether we are starting new medications or streamlining a patient's current medications, our goal is to provide successful management of psychiatric symptoms with minimal side effects. We believe that providing psychiatric care is about treating the whole patient. We consider other medical conditions that may play a role in a person's mental health, and we encourage behavioral and cognitive skills to improve overall mental health.
John E. Harrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MN 55446
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•
•UPDATE: Now scheduling appointments!• We recommend you self-schedule your appointment now on our website. •Capacity is limited•
Joanne Howden-Rich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55424
Hello, I'm Joanne, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. I offer the convenience of both in-office and telehealth appointments, ensuring you can access care in a way that best suits your needs. My approach is holistic, combining medication where necessary with therapy to treat a wide variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and behavioral issues. I am not just a provider but a partner in your mental health journey.
Hello, I'm Joanne, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to providing compassionate mental health care to individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. I offer the convenience of both in-office and telehealth appointments, ensuring you can access care in a way that best suits your needs. My approach is holistic, combining medication where necessary with therapy to treat a wide variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and behavioral issues. I am not just a provider but a partner in your mental health journey.
John Nwabugwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, BC , APR, DNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55442
As a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner and board-certified psychiatric mental health provider, I believe in providing each patient with holistic, comprehensive care that is effective, efficient, and compassionate. From medication management, to referrals within the health care system, every client is treated based on their individual needs and goals.
As a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner and board-certified psychiatric mental health provider, I believe in providing each patient with holistic, comprehensive care that is effective, efficient, and compassionate. From medication management, to referrals within the health care system, every client is treated based on their individual needs and goals.
My clients are ready to make a change that will have a positive impact in their lives and improve their quality of life. My clients spend their time with me because we work as a team to identify obstacles and support the process of growth. Even if my clients don't know what direction they're headed or how to make things better, they know I'm there to support them until they can find their own path.
My clients are ready to make a change that will have a positive impact in their lives and improve their quality of life. My clients spend their time with me because we work as a team to identify obstacles and support the process of growth. Even if my clients don't know what direction they're headed or how to make things better, they know I'm there to support them until they can find their own path.
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist treating ADHD, depression, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety disorders, psychosis, insomnia, amongst other psychiatric illnesses. At your initial evaluation, I develop a treatment plan for a patient, that may include testing to rule out medical conditions that may contribute to symptoms, and treatment that may include psychiatric medication, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. I utilize medications with a gentle approach, using the least number of medications to effectively treat an illness, using minimal effective dosages to reduce side effects.
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist treating ADHD, depression, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety disorders, psychosis, insomnia, amongst other psychiatric illnesses. At your initial evaluation, I develop a treatment plan for a patient, that may include testing to rule out medical conditions that may contribute to symptoms, and treatment that may include psychiatric medication, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. I utilize medications with a gentle approach, using the least number of medications to effectively treat an illness, using minimal effective dosages to reduce side effects.
See more therapy options for Hennepin County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hennepin County, MN
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Hennepin County, MN who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Medication Management |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
79% | Aetna |
77% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Hennepin County, MN see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hennepin County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.