Psychiatrists in 40165

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 Jeff McCarty - Mind & Soul Care, Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, MA, MM
Mind & Soul Care
Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, MA, MM
Serves Area
Are you grieving, burned out, anxious, or spiritually exhausted? I help Christians navigate life’s hardest seasons through Christ-centered coaching and soul care. With over 15 years as a behavioral health and hospice nurse and 30+ years in ministry, I offer biblically grounded, clinically informed support that honors both your story and your faith. This isn’t therapy — it’s healing. You don’t have to walk this road alone. Virtual sessions and free consultations available.
Are you grieving, burned out, anxious, or spiritually exhausted? I help Christians navigate life’s hardest seasons through Christ-centered coaching and soul care. With over 15 years as a behavioral health and hospice nurse and 30+ years in ministry, I offer biblically grounded, clinically informed support that honors both your story and your faith. This isn’t therapy — it’s healing. You don’t have to walk this road alone. Virtual sessions and free consultations available.
(502) 218-3672 View (502) 218-3672
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Hannah Maki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Hannah Maki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Through my practice, I utilize genetic and laboratory testing, dietary guidance, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and lifestyle changes. If you’ve seen little improvement in your mental health with conventional psychiatry and pharmacological treatment, I’m here to help you.
Through my practice, I utilize genetic and laboratory testing, dietary guidance, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and lifestyle changes. If you’ve seen little improvement in your mental health with conventional psychiatry and pharmacological treatment, I’m here to help you.
(502) 771-8309 View (502) 771-8309
Photo of Dr. Meredith C Wood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ANP, PMHNP
Dr. Meredith C Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ANP, PMHNP
Online Only
I am accepting new patients age 6 years and older for medication management. I have over 19 years of healthcare experience. All appointments are via telehealth using doxy.me. At PsychMind, we have a team of mental health professionals who also provide therapy. Call or email for any questions or to get started with scheduling.
I am accepting new patients age 6 years and older for medication management. I have over 19 years of healthcare experience. All appointments are via telehealth using doxy.me. At PsychMind, we have a team of mental health professionals who also provide therapy. Call or email for any questions or to get started with scheduling.
(859) 470-8860 View (859) 470-8860
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 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 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 Aiyesha Stiles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aiyesha Stiles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
(859) 208-2999 View (859) 208-2999
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 Dr. Mohammed Islam, Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Dr. Mohammed Islam
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Mohammed Islam is board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate studies at Stony Brook University and attended medical school at the American University of Integrative Sciences. He completed his psychiatry residency training at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center followed by completion of a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at University Hospitals/Case Western Reserve University where he served as Chief Fellow. Prior to joining Talkiatry, he has trained/worked in a combination of various healthcare systems across New York, New Jersey, Ohio and Kentucky.
Dr. Mohammed Islam is board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate studies at Stony Brook University and attended medical school at the American University of Integrative Sciences. He completed his psychiatry residency training at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center followed by completion of a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at University Hospitals/Case Western Reserve University where he served as Chief Fellow. Prior to joining Talkiatry, he has trained/worked in a combination of various healthcare systems across New York, New Jersey, Ohio and Kentucky.
(929) 229-7167 View (929) 229-7167
Photo of Dr. Reisha Lynn Caudill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Dr. Reisha Lynn Caudill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Online Only
My specialties include depressive disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. I treat clients ages 5 and up with a wide range of psychiatric and mental health issues. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and offer Behavioral/Mental Health services and medication management through Telehealth across all of Kentucky.
My specialties include depressive disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. I treat clients ages 5 and up with a wide range of psychiatric and mental health issues. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and offer Behavioral/Mental Health services and medication management through Telehealth across all of Kentucky.
(502) 409-6993 View (502) 409-6993
Photo of Laura Pohl - Laura Pohl @ Women's Mental Health Specialists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Laura Pohl @ Women's Mental Health Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Online Only
I understand the immense weight that life places on women—balancing work, home, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m dedicated to supporting women on their wellness journey with a compassionate and holistic approach. With specialized expertise in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD, I provide expert care tailored to your unique needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, I’ve walked alongside women through every stage of life—from pregnancy and early motherhood to menopause. I know how challenging these transitions can be, and I’m here to help you navigate them with clarity and confidence.
I understand the immense weight that life places on women—balancing work, home, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m dedicated to supporting women on their wellness journey with a compassionate and holistic approach. With specialized expertise in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD, I provide expert care tailored to your unique needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, I’ve walked alongside women through every stage of life—from pregnancy and early motherhood to menopause. I know how challenging these transitions can be, and I’m here to help you navigate them with clarity and confidence.
(606) 708-7625 View (606) 708-7625
Photo of Dr. Erin Knopf, Psychiatrist, MD, FAAP, DBPN, CEDS
Dr. Erin Knopf
Psychiatrist, MD, FAAP, DBPN, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Erin Knopf is a Board-Certified Pediatrician, Adult Psychiatrist, and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, as well as an iaedp Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. She specializes in treating eating disorder behaviors and comorbid symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and more. She is the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of VERY (Virtual Eating Recovery for You). VERY provides virtual eating disorder care services (psychiatry, therapy, dietary, medical) in 10 states (CO, WA, UT, KY, IN, OH, TN, TX, NJ, NY). We work with your outside providers to ensure cohesive care!
Dr. Erin Knopf is a Board-Certified Pediatrician, Adult Psychiatrist, and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, as well as an iaedp Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. She specializes in treating eating disorder behaviors and comorbid symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and more. She is the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of VERY (Virtual Eating Recovery for You). VERY provides virtual eating disorder care services (psychiatry, therapy, dietary, medical) in 10 states (CO, WA, UT, KY, IN, OH, TN, TX, NJ, NY). We work with your outside providers to ensure cohesive care!
(720) 790-4316 View (720) 790-4316
Photo of Adam Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Adam Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Pewee Valley, KY 40056
I am a psychiatric NP who has worked independently and in Community Health. I am passionate about the care of my clients of all ages. I learned that passion while serving on active duty in the military when I got to help out a doctor in an aid clinic which led to me becoming a nurse. I have lived all over the country including northern Alaska. I love dogs and camp as much as I am able to. Currently, I live in the greater Louisville area with my wife and 2 daughters.
I am a psychiatric NP who has worked independently and in Community Health. I am passionate about the care of my clients of all ages. I learned that passion while serving on active duty in the military when I got to help out a doctor in an aid clinic which led to me becoming a nurse. I have lived all over the country including northern Alaska. I love dogs and camp as much as I am able to. Currently, I live in the greater Louisville area with my wife and 2 daughters.
(859) 762-6667 View (859) 762-6667
Photo of Kayla Lesher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Kayla Lesher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Louisville, KY 40223
Immediate appointments are available for in-person and telehealth! At Inclusion Mental Health, we have 9 practitioners available with full prescriptive authority.
Immediate appointments are available for in-person and telehealth! At Inclusion Mental Health, we have 9 practitioners available with full prescriptive authority.
(502) 317-8134 View (502) 317-8134
Photo of Kristin Law, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Kristin Law
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Louisville, KY 40223
Kristin is a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who believes in treating all people equally, reducing the stigma of mental health, and going above and beyond for her patients. She has been in the nursing field since 2013, though she has been passionate about mental health for as long as she can remember. She has experience with patients from a variety of backgrounds, ages, settings, and diagnoses.
Kristin is a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who believes in treating all people equally, reducing the stigma of mental health, and going above and beyond for her patients. She has been in the nursing field since 2013, though she has been passionate about mental health for as long as she can remember. She has experience with patients from a variety of backgrounds, ages, settings, and diagnoses.
(502) 236-5536 View (502) 236-5536
Photo of Victoria Spreitler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Victoria Spreitler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Louisville, KY 40241
Feeling overwhelmed with life’s demands? Juggling too much and don’t know where to turn for help? Life can be tough, especially if you’ve sought out help but didn’t feel like you were truly being heard. Vicki Spreitler is not just any Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner; she’s one who cares. Born and raised in Kentucky with over 15 years of diverse experience, including pediatrics, emergency medicine, primary and acute care, and mental health, Vicki has a wealth of knowledge to help you face your biggest fears. Vicki knows firsthand the challenges of balancing a hectic life—she’s been there as a single mom raising two boys.
Feeling overwhelmed with life’s demands? Juggling too much and don’t know where to turn for help? Life can be tough, especially if you’ve sought out help but didn’t feel like you were truly being heard. Vicki Spreitler is not just any Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner; she’s one who cares. Born and raised in Kentucky with over 15 years of diverse experience, including pediatrics, emergency medicine, primary and acute care, and mental health, Vicki has a wealth of knowledge to help you face your biggest fears. Vicki knows firsthand the challenges of balancing a hectic life—she’s been there as a single mom raising two boys.
(502) 427-7548 View (502) 427-7548
Photo of Olivia Pierce, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Olivia Pierce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Louisville, KY 40207
Overwhelmed by anxiety or battling persistent OCD symptoms? If traditional treatments haven't worked for you, I’m here to help. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide compassionate, personalized care for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and more. My approach includes tailored medication management and, when appropriate, alternative treatments like IV ketamine infusions for those with treatment-resistant conditions. Leveraging my extensive experience, I offer evidence-based support to help you regain control and achieve lasting wellness.
Overwhelmed by anxiety or battling persistent OCD symptoms? If traditional treatments haven't worked for you, I’m here to help. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide compassionate, personalized care for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and more. My approach includes tailored medication management and, when appropriate, alternative treatments like IV ketamine infusions for those with treatment-resistant conditions. Leveraging my extensive experience, I offer evidence-based support to help you regain control and achieve lasting wellness.
(502) 273-0399 View (502) 273-0399
Photo of Terry M Hagan - Hagan Health, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Hagan Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Louisville, KY 40207
Generally speaking, and before we talk about you, just let me say that I am here to help. It can be intimidating to think about meeting a psychiatrist for the first time, and I understand that. In fact, I know that some people might find me intimidating, particularly after reading my bio, but I really want to be seen as that kind and gracious doctor who wants to help you. My style as a psychiatrist is to inform you and discuss options while respecting your right to make the decisions that are best for you. Nothing is decided about treatment without your full agreement. Sometimes I will tell a patient that “you are the captain
Generally speaking, and before we talk about you, just let me say that I am here to help. It can be intimidating to think about meeting a psychiatrist for the first time, and I understand that. In fact, I know that some people might find me intimidating, particularly after reading my bio, but I really want to be seen as that kind and gracious doctor who wants to help you. My style as a psychiatrist is to inform you and discuss options while respecting your right to make the decisions that are best for you. Nothing is decided about treatment without your full agreement. Sometimes I will tell a patient that “you are the captain
(502) 547-8486 View (502) 547-8486
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 Sarah Schirmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Sarah Schirmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Louisville, KY 40218
I work with people who encounter frequent, strong emotions that they experience as problematic and then find themselves avoiding the life they want to live. My patients may struggle with intense anxiety and worry, distressing depression, or problems with focus, concentration, and productivity. We work together to remind you of your strengths, values, and goals and create a holistic plan that works for you. Instead of avoiding your life, you will learn to accept and tolerate your emotions and get back to doing the things that are meaningful for you.
I work with people who encounter frequent, strong emotions that they experience as problematic and then find themselves avoiding the life they want to live. My patients may struggle with intense anxiety and worry, distressing depression, or problems with focus, concentration, and productivity. We work together to remind you of your strengths, values, and goals and create a holistic plan that works for you. Instead of avoiding your life, you will learn to accept and tolerate your emotions and get back to doing the things that are meaningful for you.
(502) 237-1376 View (502) 237-1376

See more therapy options for 40165

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 40165

< 10

Psychiatrists in 40165 who prioritize treating:

100% Grief
100% Stress
67% Relationship Issues
67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 40165 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 40165?

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.