It can be overwhelming to decipher the roles in mental health care. Let’s break it down.
Therapists: Therapists typically have a master’s degree in counseling, marriage and family therapy, or social work, plus supervised clinical experience. These professionals provide talk therapy for a wide range of issues (anxiety, depression, relationship problems, etc.). They often have a specific area of focus (like family therapy, trauma, or addiction).
Psychologists: They complete a doctoral program in psychology and often have extensive training in research and therapy. They often provide talk therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy) and psychological testing (like IQ tests or diagnostic clarification).
Psychiatrists: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They attend medical school and complete specialized training in psychiatry. They can diagnose mental health disorders and prescribe medication.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP): They are registered nurses who complete advanced training in psychiatric nursing. They are advanced practice nurses who specialize in mental health care. PMHNPs can diagnose and treat mental health disorders, prescribe medications, and provide therapy.
With the growing demand for mental health services, PMHNPs have emerged as essential healthcare providers who bridge the gap between psychiatry, therapists, and clients. With the addition of Beth, Northstar’s first PMHNP this fall, we have started to do just that. By allowing for increased collaboration, Beth works closely with the many therapists on staff to improve care for all clients. Prior to prescribing, Beth was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She continues to incorporate this background into a holistic approach to care.
Beth sees mental health as bigger than brain chemistry. While medication is often a necessary tool to achieve and sustain wellness, there are often more pieces to the puzzle. This may include ordering blood work to rule out physical health concerns, proper diagnosis to ensure appropriate medication recommendations, and coordinating with therapists. Environment, lifestyle, and relationships are all factors that impact our mental health. Offering in person and virtual appointments, Beth wants to join your team to assist in fitting more pieces together.