Psychiatrists in 40031

Photo of Dr. Cody B. Pittman - Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
(502) 890-9232 View (502) 890-9232

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Katie Norris - Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Louisville, KY 40228
Accepting new patients! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 15 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical cannabis prescriber as well. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning, I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
Accepting new patients! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 15 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical cannabis prescriber as well. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning, I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
(502) 628-4079 View (502) 628-4079
Photo of Dane Mendelsohn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dane Mendelsohn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Louisville, KY 40241
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Crisis Stabilization, Addiction Medicine, Women’s Health, and General Psychiatry. With six years of experience in psychiatry, I am equipped to treat patients of all ages. I offer various psychotherapy services such as lifestyle modification, manifestation, and mindfulness, and view medications as a tool not as a solution. Currently, I serve as a Medical Officer in the United States Air Force and have extensive knowledge in writing Veteran Affairs disability claim evaluations. I received my BSN from UofL and my MSN from WKU.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Crisis Stabilization, Addiction Medicine, Women’s Health, and General Psychiatry. With six years of experience in psychiatry, I am equipped to treat patients of all ages. I offer various psychotherapy services such as lifestyle modification, manifestation, and mindfulness, and view medications as a tool not as a solution. Currently, I serve as a Medical Officer in the United States Air Force and have extensive knowledge in writing Veteran Affairs disability claim evaluations. I received my BSN from UofL and my MSN from WKU.
(502) 503-5549 View (502) 503-5549
Photo of Julie Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Julie Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Serves Area
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
(270) 290-0874 View (270) 290-0874
Photo of Melanie Wright, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melanie Wright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My goal as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to aid individuals of all ages in need of mental health services in achieving a healthy level of functioning, which will enhance their overall well-being. This includes, but is not limited to, the issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I provide medication management and treatment across the lifespan. I collaborate with other mental health professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, to ensure a holistic approach in providing care is achieved. I have 9 years of experience as a PMHNP, and 22 years of experience working in the mental health field.
My goal as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to aid individuals of all ages in need of mental health services in achieving a healthy level of functioning, which will enhance their overall well-being. This includes, but is not limited to, the issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I provide medication management and treatment across the lifespan. I collaborate with other mental health professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, to ensure a holistic approach in providing care is achieved. I have 9 years of experience as a PMHNP, and 22 years of experience working in the mental health field.
(270) 817-7626 View (270) 817-7626
Photo of Allison Yoder, Psychiatrist, MD
Allison Yoder
Psychiatrist, MD
Louisville, KY 40241
My ideal client is a child, teen, or young adult (college age) navigating challenges like anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, or autism spectrum disorder. They may feel overwhelmed by emotions, school stress, or social struggles. They seek clarity, coping tools, and meaningful support to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve personal or academic goals in a nurturing environment.
My ideal client is a child, teen, or young adult (college age) navigating challenges like anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, or autism spectrum disorder. They may feel overwhelmed by emotions, school stress, or social struggles. They seek clarity, coping tools, and meaningful support to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve personal or academic goals in a nurturing environment.
(502) 557-1741 View (502) 557-1741
Photo of Trevor McGuffin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Trevor McGuffin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am committed to creating a non-judgmental space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and focused on empowering you to make informed decisions about your mental health. I offer medication management for ages 7+. Life's difficulties can feel isolating. Together, we'll navigate the path forward and develop strategies to improve your mental wellbeing.
I am committed to creating a non-judgmental space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and focused on empowering you to make informed decisions about your mental health. I offer medication management for ages 7+. Life's difficulties can feel isolating. Together, we'll navigate the path forward and develop strategies to improve your mental wellbeing.
(270) 771-6540 View (270) 771-6540
Photo of Andrew Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Andrew Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment to help assist patients in determining what would be the best treatment plan for them. My experience includes working with individuals in both crisis and inpatient psychiatric settings. Currently, I provide medication management services in an office setting to children, teens, and adults.
My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment to help assist patients in determining what would be the best treatment plan for them. My experience includes working with individuals in both crisis and inpatient psychiatric settings. Currently, I provide medication management services in an office setting to children, teens, and adults.
(270) 736-1511 View (270) 736-1511
Photo of Jessica Sibbie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
Jessica Sibbie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
(502) 586-3573 View (502) 586-3573
Photo of Joshua Moore - Louisville Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Louisville Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Louisville, KY 40207
Dr. Moore is an ABPN certified Psychiatrist practicing in Louisville, Kentucky, and is a native of Richmond, Kentucky. He has extensive experience in mood disorders (bipolar and depressive disorders), psychosis (including schizophrenia), and anxiety disorders. He believes in the importance of a collaborative approach to treatment planning and respect for patient autonomy. Dr. Moore always strives to understand and assist patients with the utmost courtesy.
Dr. Moore is an ABPN certified Psychiatrist practicing in Louisville, Kentucky, and is a native of Richmond, Kentucky. He has extensive experience in mood disorders (bipolar and depressive disorders), psychosis (including schizophrenia), and anxiety disorders. He believes in the importance of a collaborative approach to treatment planning and respect for patient autonomy. Dr. Moore always strives to understand and assist patients with the utmost courtesy.
(502) 406-8296 View (502) 406-8296
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Kentucky state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $85-109 Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Kentucky state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $85-109 Accepting some insurances.
(930) 205-4161 View (930) 205-4161
Photo of Melissa Bishop, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Melissa Bishop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Louisville, KY 40241
Melissa Bishop is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University. She also received a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a bachelor's degree in Nursing from Radford University. She is experienced in providing medication management in both child and adolescent populations and adult populations in an outpatient setting.
Melissa Bishop is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University. She also received a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a bachelor's degree in Nursing from Radford University. She is experienced in providing medication management in both child and adolescent populations and adult populations in an outpatient setting.
(502) 806-8468 View (502) 806-8468
Photo of Dr. Melissa Sullivan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Melissa Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Louisville, KY 40222
Dr. Sullivan is a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in Louisville, Kentucky. She attended medical school at the University of Louisville and completed a four-year residency training at the University of Louisville. She offers medication management in a therapeutic setting for a variety of disorders. Patients will receive an individualized treatment plan that will be designed in collaboration with Dr. Sullivan at the first appointment. Treatment will be offered in a caring and confidential setting where the goal is to help you, the patient, feel better as quickly as possible. Most patients can be seen within three weeks.
Dr. Sullivan is a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in Louisville, Kentucky. She attended medical school at the University of Louisville and completed a four-year residency training at the University of Louisville. She offers medication management in a therapeutic setting for a variety of disorders. Patients will receive an individualized treatment plan that will be designed in collaboration with Dr. Sullivan at the first appointment. Treatment will be offered in a caring and confidential setting where the goal is to help you, the patient, feel better as quickly as possible. Most patients can be seen within three weeks.
(502) 317-2853 View (502) 317-2853
Photo of Tia Braxton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Tia Braxton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Louisville, KY 40228
Accepting New Patients! Appointments available for April 2025. Are you struggling with sleep, focus, grief, anxiety, or mood changes? Experiencing sudden weight fluctuations? Is your pre-teen or teenager exhibiting concerning behaviors? I'm here to help. With over 9 years of mental health nursing experience, I offer expert care for intellectual disabilities, behavioral disorders, geriatric care, emergency psychiatry, adolescent residential care, and detox/rehab. Lastly, I provide holistic and tailored treatments.
Accepting New Patients! Appointments available for April 2025. Are you struggling with sleep, focus, grief, anxiety, or mood changes? Experiencing sudden weight fluctuations? Is your pre-teen or teenager exhibiting concerning behaviors? I'm here to help. With over 9 years of mental health nursing experience, I offer expert care for intellectual disabilities, behavioral disorders, geriatric care, emergency psychiatry, adolescent residential care, and detox/rehab. Lastly, I provide holistic and tailored treatments.
(502) 325-3331 View (502) 325-3331
Photo of Dr. Paula Wilt, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Paula Wilt
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Wilt is board certified in adult psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University in New Orleans where she also completed her four-year residency in psychiatry. Dr. Wilt takes a biopsychosocial approach to mental health and has over 13 years of experience with an array of mental health diagnoses including Depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Dr. Wilt enjoys spending time getting to know her patients and working hand in hand with them to accurately diagnose and treat the symptoms they are experiencing.
Dr. Wilt is board certified in adult psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University in New Orleans where she also completed her four-year residency in psychiatry. Dr. Wilt takes a biopsychosocial approach to mental health and has over 13 years of experience with an array of mental health diagnoses including Depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Dr. Wilt enjoys spending time getting to know her patients and working hand in hand with them to accurately diagnose and treat the symptoms they are experiencing.
(502) 385-3773 View (502) 385-3773
Photo of Brittany Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Brittany Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Louisville, KY 40207
Brittany Williams, PMHNP, is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner serving individuals across Kentucky. She provides comprehensive medication management services, helping adolescents and adults navigate a wide range of mental health concerns. Whether addressing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD, Brittany works closely with each client to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their unique needs and goals. She fosters a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can openly discuss their challenges and take an active role in their healing journey.
Brittany Williams, PMHNP, is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner serving individuals across Kentucky. She provides comprehensive medication management services, helping adolescents and adults navigate a wide range of mental health concerns. Whether addressing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD, Brittany works closely with each client to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their unique needs and goals. She fosters a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can openly discuss their challenges and take an active role in their healing journey.
(502) 490-3472 View (502) 490-3472
Photo of Sofeia Aslam, Psychiatrist, DO
Sofeia Aslam
Psychiatrist, DO
Louisville, KY 40241
It’s hard to watch your child struggle, whether it’s with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or behavioral challenges. As a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist based in Louisville, KY, I’m here to help. My goal is to support your child in overcoming these challenges while empowering you as a parent to feel more confident and hopeful about the future.
It’s hard to watch your child struggle, whether it’s with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or behavioral challenges. As a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist based in Louisville, KY, I’m here to help. My goal is to support your child in overcoming these challenges while empowering you as a parent to feel more confident and hopeful about the future.
(502) 317-0601 View (502) 317-0601
Photo of Dr. Whitney Gilley, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Whitney Gilley
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
This is a small practice where I believe in taking time with patients. As an M.D. specialist in psychiatry, I offer weekly therapy with the option for medication. My focus is helping adults manage stress and heal from conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. I am certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional and stay up-to-date on the latest in our understanding of how stress and trauma affect our body, mood, and relationships. My sincere goal is not just to treat symptoms but to help patients take steps to improve their overall quality of life.
This is a small practice where I believe in taking time with patients. As an M.D. specialist in psychiatry, I offer weekly therapy with the option for medication. My focus is helping adults manage stress and heal from conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. I am certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional and stay up-to-date on the latest in our understanding of how stress and trauma affect our body, mood, and relationships. My sincere goal is not just to treat symptoms but to help patients take steps to improve their overall quality of life.
(502) 610-4747 View (502) 610-4747
Photo of Danielle Bass, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Danielle Bass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
(502) 306-0293 View (502) 306-0293
Photo of Dawn Glowatz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dawn Glowatz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Louisville, KY 40202
Hi! I'm Dawn and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 13 years of experience treating and working with clients of all ages. I believe that the relationship between a psychiatric nurse practitioner and the clients she serves is a partnership of trust and understanding.
Hi! I'm Dawn and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 13 years of experience treating and working with clients of all ages. I believe that the relationship between a psychiatric nurse practitioner and the clients she serves is a partnership of trust and understanding.
(859) 374-3430 View (859) 374-3430

See more therapy options for 40031

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 40031

< 10

Psychiatrists in 40031 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% Eating Disorders
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 40031 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 40031?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.