Psychiatrists in Sappington, MO
![Photo of Susan Dawson, EdD , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d640a7f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Dawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD , PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Sappington, MO 63128
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, in practice for over 25yrs. I have served as a Professor, Dean and Director of nursing programs. My passion is in helping people in need of substantial management of mental health issues. Helping patients with addiction and adult psychiatry issues is essential for the success of those in these situations. I'm looking forward to serving patients who are ready to deal with their mental health issues, head on. If you need a provider who cares, believes in being honest and trustworthy consider care here is the place.
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, in practice for over 25yrs. I have served as a Professor, Dean and Director of nursing programs. My passion is in helping people in need of substantial management of mental health issues. Helping patients with addiction and adult psychiatry issues is essential for the success of those in these situations. I'm looking forward to serving patients who are ready to deal with their mental health issues, head on. If you need a provider who cares, believes in being honest and trustworthy consider care here is the place.
![Photo of Deborah Patton, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/814cf411-0f6b-4d9b-8cb9-45bc3f2c32d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Patton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Sappington, MO 63128 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and am licensed as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) in the state of Missouri with prescriptive authority. I graduated from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with my BSN, and from St. Louis University with my MSN and Post-Master’s degree education. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years. My primary areas of focus are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD/trauma. My primary treatment focus will be individuals 18 years and older.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and am licensed as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) in the state of Missouri with prescriptive authority. I graduated from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with my BSN, and from St. Louis University with my MSN and Post-Master’s degree education. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years. My primary areas of focus are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD/trauma. My primary treatment focus will be individuals 18 years and older.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c628941f-5167-44d9-859a-ad6ad3fb03cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mary Weiss, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac11e1f6-7438-48d2-9a2d-a8063df85f46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mary Weiss is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Weiss approaches patients with empathy and respect. She primarily manages medications but may also incorporate therapy modalities. Dr. Weiss enjoys mystery books, word puzzles, and spending time with family.
Dr. Mary Weiss is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Weiss approaches patients with empathy and respect. She primarily manages medications but may also incorporate therapy modalities. Dr. Weiss enjoys mystery books, word puzzles, and spending time with family.
![Photo of Angela Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9609ff81-e9a6-409a-8baf-4919c4edea4f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
I enjoy providing my patients with a therapeutic, non-judgmental environment in which they can feel heard and understood. One cannot heal in an environment where they continue to feel shame for symptoms or past experiences, so I do my best to put patients' minds at ease while we develop a strong therapeutic relationship.
I enjoy providing my patients with a therapeutic, non-judgmental environment in which they can feel heard and understood. One cannot heal in an environment where they continue to feel shame for symptoms or past experiences, so I do my best to put patients' minds at ease while we develop a strong therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Abraham Medaris, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da81b869-5f17-49ad-b9b7-88c61dad562b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abraham Medaris
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Not accepting new clients
Patients suffering from: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and other mood related symptoms.
Patients suffering from: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and other mood related symptoms.
![Photo of Jordan Malone, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2784c18d-5cd6-4504-90e4-57e9c4cfed0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Malone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141 (Online Only)
Jordan Malone is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She treats adults 18 and up for various mental health concerns with medication management. To optimize treatment, genetic screening is offered. Jordan is passionate and dedicated in assisting patients meet their personalized goals as they continue their journey to healing.
Jordan Malone is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She treats adults 18 and up for various mental health concerns with medication management. To optimize treatment, genetic screening is offered. Jordan is passionate and dedicated in assisting patients meet their personalized goals as they continue their journey to healing.
![Photo of Cassandra Turner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e32149-e9df-4480-abda-ec74dadc9964/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
![Photo of Courtney Haas - Aspire Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dce8d98-29db-4f02-aeec-48af57f76af4/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are looking for quality psychiatric medication management services, then Aspire Wellness is the right center for you! We are accepting new patients 18 years and older through telehealth. Our goal is to provide high quality healthcare services to improve overall wellbeing. Our team will support you along the way and work together to connect you with the treament and services you need.
If you are looking for quality psychiatric medication management services, then Aspire Wellness is the right center for you! We are accepting new patients 18 years and older through telehealth. Our goal is to provide high quality healthcare services to improve overall wellbeing. Our team will support you along the way and work together to connect you with the treament and services you need.
![Photo of Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/317da505-1ff9-4c1b-9fde-d83c717c3a4c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Affton, MO 63123
The most gratifying thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life. There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness. I’m a proud member of the Provident Behavioral Health team, an agency that offers not only psychiatric services but also counseling and crisis services. I currently offer telemental health appointments for Missouri residents, making services accessible and convenient for you.
The most gratifying thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life. There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness. I’m a proud member of the Provident Behavioral Health team, an agency that offers not only psychiatric services but also counseling and crisis services. I currently offer telemental health appointments for Missouri residents, making services accessible and convenient for you.
![Photo of Shelah Radke, MD, JD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfd61ee5-0843-409b-b6f8-36b1305bb476/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help clients with the diagnosis and treatment of a plethora of concerns, including (but not limited to) emotional, developmental, behavioral, and mental disorders of childhood and adolescence. I work with my clients to understand what their needs and goals are, and together we use this information to develop a personalized treatment plan. This approach empowers my clients to take an active role in their own care and can lead to more positive outcomes and greater overall satisfaction with the treatment process.
I help clients with the diagnosis and treatment of a plethora of concerns, including (but not limited to) emotional, developmental, behavioral, and mental disorders of childhood and adolescence. I work with my clients to understand what their needs and goals are, and together we use this information to develop a personalized treatment plan. This approach empowers my clients to take an active role in their own care and can lead to more positive outcomes and greater overall satisfaction with the treatment process.
![Photo of Meredith Throop, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e72227ef-39b0-48a6-8cc8-e687daefa65e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Throop is expanding her current private practice and will be primarily telemedicine based. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
Dr. Throop is expanding her current private practice and will be primarily telemedicine based. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
![Photo of Tamara Runge, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b0889b6-2833-4e5c-b75c-c3a5bbbff6dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients' unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri. She also has the ability to see patients from home via telehealth services.
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients' unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri. She also has the ability to see patients from home via telehealth services.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36ae85a8-c4a1-4e56-abf4-ee7775817498/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Austin Lin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd3ff23c-4e7a-417e-828e-e2b09f783092/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
![Photo of Chido Zvirawa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87111a86-1903-4678-be73-f2e0a12a34c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chido, is a dual nurse practitioner in Family and psychiatric mental health specializing in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals, with a passion for promoting mental well-being. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. Chido has been a nurse for 14 years and 6 years as a nurse practitioner for 6 years.
Chido, is a dual nurse practitioner in Family and psychiatric mental health specializing in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals, with a passion for promoting mental well-being. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. Chido has been a nurse for 14 years and 6 years as a nurse practitioner for 6 years.
![Photo of Narissa Marasso, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8290bd91-fa2d-4e1d-aba4-a5ebadb5342e/1/320x400.png)
Narissa Marasso, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She practices general psychiatry with an emphasis on adult populations, including the treatment of depression, bipolar, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, insomnia, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, and the co-occurring mental health complications of Type 1 Diabetes. Services include brief psychotherapy and psychopharmacologic management. Narissa enjoys building therapeutic relationships with her clients and seeing them heal believing that mental, physical, and spiritual wellness can lead to lasting recovery.
Narissa Marasso, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She practices general psychiatry with an emphasis on adult populations, including the treatment of depression, bipolar, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, insomnia, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, and the co-occurring mental health complications of Type 1 Diabetes. Services include brief psychotherapy and psychopharmacologic management. Narissa enjoys building therapeutic relationships with her clients and seeing them heal believing that mental, physical, and spiritual wellness can lead to lasting recovery.
![Photo of Dr. Evan Buckmiller, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3709f70-ab6c-4af3-9f1d-e0180f336bbe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry is my passion. By helping you overcome your mental health symptoms with medication management, I can support you in getting back to living a healthy and balanced lifestyle. You deserve it.
Psychiatry is my passion. By helping you overcome your mental health symptoms with medication management, I can support you in getting back to living a healthy and balanced lifestyle. You deserve it.
![Photo of Nicole Parker, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf63341c-2a6e-450a-982c-107d7ecf2bdf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Parker graduated with her Master's Degree in Nursing from Maryville University in 2020 and became a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Prior to graduation she spent time working as an RN in a fast-paced Emergency Department and in acute inpatient behavioral units. She also spent time teaching the specialized focus of mental health clinical rotation to future registered nurses. Nicole's primary focus has been working with inner city children, adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of mental health disorders.
Nicole Parker graduated with her Master's Degree in Nursing from Maryville University in 2020 and became a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Prior to graduation she spent time working as an RN in a fast-paced Emergency Department and in acute inpatient behavioral units. She also spent time teaching the specialized focus of mental health clinical rotation to future registered nurses. Nicole's primary focus has been working with inner city children, adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of mental health disorders.
![Photo of Emily Mukherji, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45242933-0dc6-4977-8a4f-2aaa2cec5b71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Mukherji is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She completed medical school and psychiatry residency in Boston, MA. Emily likes to get to know her clients well and provide thoughtful psychopharmacological treatment for their psychiatric disorders. Outside of work, Emily loves reading, walking her dog, and spending time with her family.
Emily Mukherji is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She completed medical school and psychiatry residency in Boston, MA. Emily likes to get to know her clients well and provide thoughtful psychopharmacological treatment for their psychiatric disorders. Outside of work, Emily loves reading, walking her dog, and spending time with her family.
See more therapy options for Sappington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sappington, MO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sappington, MO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Grief |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
31 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Sappington, MO see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sappington?
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.