Psychiatrists in 40202

Photo of Precious Sarver, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Precious Sarver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202
Mental health plays a significant role in our overall health and wellbeing. It is okay if you need to reach out for help. Please do. I prioritize patient focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs. I strive to build lasting relationships with patients that are built on respect and trust. My view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where we take things at your pace. I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, safe, and heard. My values stand firm on commitment, integrity, respect, and advocacy. My goal is to empower and assist with optimizing your mental health because mental health does matter.
Mental health plays a significant role in our overall health and wellbeing. It is okay if you need to reach out for help. Please do. I prioritize patient focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs. I strive to build lasting relationships with patients that are built on respect and trust. My view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where we take things at your pace. I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, safe, and heard. My values stand firm on commitment, integrity, respect, and advocacy. My goal is to empower and assist with optimizing your mental health because mental health does matter.
(502) 334-0869 View (502) 334-0869
Photo of Summyji Groom, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinic, PLLC is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive mental health care in a safe, secure virtual space. We cater to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or those wishing to enhance their mental well-being. Our strength lies in our holistic approach, integrating various therapeutic methods tailored to each client's unique needs. Our skilled professionals foster a supportive environment, aimed at empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with increased resilience. Your mental health is our priority.
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinic, PLLC is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive mental health care in a safe, secure virtual space. We cater to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or those wishing to enhance their mental well-being. Our strength lies in our holistic approach, integrating various therapeutic methods tailored to each client's unique needs. Our skilled professionals foster a supportive environment, aimed at empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with increased resilience. Your mental health is our priority.
(502) 673-1568 View (502) 673-1568
Photo of Talesha Leachman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Talesha Leachman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202
My ideal client is someone facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and etc. They may feel overwhelmed, seeking clarity and relief from their symptoms. Their goals are to regain control over their mental health, find stability, and improve their overall well-being. They are looking for compassionate care, evidence-based treatment, and a safe space where they can share their struggles without judgment. What they truly want is to feel understood, empowered, and hopeful about their future.
My ideal client is someone facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and etc. They may feel overwhelmed, seeking clarity and relief from their symptoms. Their goals are to regain control over their mental health, find stability, and improve their overall well-being. They are looking for compassionate care, evidence-based treatment, and a safe space where they can share their struggles without judgment. What they truly want is to feel understood, empowered, and hopeful about their future.
(502) 218-3686 View (502) 218-3686
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (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 $99. 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 $99. Accepting some insurances.
(930) 205-4161 View (930) 205-4161
Photo of Kellye Singletary, MD, Psychiatrist
Kellye Singletary
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202
As a psychiatrist, I believe that everyone should have access to quality mental health care. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and I strive to highlight the importance of psychoeducation, allowing each person to know what their symptoms mean in the context of an accurate diagnosis and utilize a patient-centered approach to care. At UpSing Telepsychiatry, we provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief psychodynamic therapy sessions. We offer in-person visits at our office located in Louisville, Kentucky as well as virtual telepsych visits to residents of Kentucky and Florida.
As a psychiatrist, I believe that everyone should have access to quality mental health care. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and I strive to highlight the importance of psychoeducation, allowing each person to know what their symptoms mean in the context of an accurate diagnosis and utilize a patient-centered approach to care. At UpSing Telepsychiatry, we provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief psychodynamic therapy sessions. We offer in-person visits at our office located in Louisville, Kentucky as well as virtual telepsych visits to residents of Kentucky and Florida.
(502) 306-3187 View (502) 306-3187
Photo of Kurt Kristiansen, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kurt Kristiansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
(502) 281-0323 View (502) 281-0323
Photo of Michelle Figueroa - Khalil Mind Kare, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Khalil Mind Kare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for mental health disorders across the lifespan.
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for mental health disorders across the lifespan.
(502) 431-2799 View (502) 431-2799
Photo of Markquetta Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Markquetta Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
(859) 651-7686 View (859) 651-7686
Photo of John Christopher Dixon, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Christopher Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Meet your ideal client—the courageous seeker of mental well-being. Struggling with diverse challenges like anxiety, depression, or life transitions, they yearn for understanding, healing, and inner harmony. Their goal is to reclaim joy and lead a fulfilling life, unburdened by mental health obstacles. Through a compassionate and holistic approach, I empower them to thrive on their transformative journey. Let's embark together towards a brighter, resilient future. Welcome to the path of healing.
Meet your ideal client—the courageous seeker of mental well-being. Struggling with diverse challenges like anxiety, depression, or life transitions, they yearn for understanding, healing, and inner harmony. Their goal is to reclaim joy and lead a fulfilling life, unburdened by mental health obstacles. Through a compassionate and holistic approach, I empower them to thrive on their transformative journey. Let's embark together towards a brighter, resilient future. Welcome to the path of healing.
(502) 878-7138 View (502) 878-7138
Photo of Gihan Abdel Razik, MD, Psychiatrist
Gihan Abdel Razik
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202
Dr Razik is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over 20 years. Throughout her career she has helped thousands of patients overcome their mental health struggles though medication management and a combination of supportive and psychodynamic psychotherapy. She graduated from Ain Shams University School of Medicine in 1992 and went on to do her psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after which she became board-certified.
Dr Razik is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over 20 years. Throughout her career she has helped thousands of patients overcome their mental health struggles though medication management and a combination of supportive and psychodynamic psychotherapy. She graduated from Ain Shams University School of Medicine in 1992 and went on to do her psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after which she became board-certified.
(513) 496-0340 View (513) 496-0340
Photo of Nicole Fletcher-Griggs, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Fletcher-Griggs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
In my psychiatric practice, trust is paramount. I'm committed to nurturing a safe, supportive environment where your voice is valued and respected. With empathy and compassion, I seek to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic bond grounded in mutual trust and openness. I firmly believe in holistic care, delving into both symptoms and underlying causes of mental health struggles. Together, we'll design a tailored treatment strategy aligned with your aspirations and beliefs. My practice is rooted in evidence-based approaches, integrating the latest research and best practices to empower you on your path to healing.
In my psychiatric practice, trust is paramount. I'm committed to nurturing a safe, supportive environment where your voice is valued and respected. With empathy and compassion, I seek to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic bond grounded in mutual trust and openness. I firmly believe in holistic care, delving into both symptoms and underlying causes of mental health struggles. Together, we'll design a tailored treatment strategy aligned with your aspirations and beliefs. My practice is rooted in evidence-based approaches, integrating the latest research and best practices to empower you on your path to healing.
(502) 503-4883 View (502) 503-4883
Photo of Aiyesha Stiles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aiyesha Stiles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (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 David Njong Chindo, DNP, PMNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Njong Chindo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Dr. Chindo is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has over 5 years of experience working with individuals with various mental health disorders, across the lifespan and with diverse groups of people. Dr. Chindo diagnose, treat, manage, and prescribe medications to treat various mental health disorders to include anxiety, depression and PTSD. His approach to psychiatric treatment combines therapeutic feedback coupled with the use of medication management to enable individuals to function at the best of their ability. "I believe in the “wholeness” of a person, and that laughter/happiness is always one of
Dr. Chindo is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has over 5 years of experience working with individuals with various mental health disorders, across the lifespan and with diverse groups of people. Dr. Chindo diagnose, treat, manage, and prescribe medications to treat various mental health disorders to include anxiety, depression and PTSD. His approach to psychiatric treatment combines therapeutic feedback coupled with the use of medication management to enable individuals to function at the best of their ability. "I believe in the “wholeness” of a person, and that laughter/happiness is always one of
(859) 710-1157 View (859) 710-1157
Photo of Dawn Glowatz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawn Glowatz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
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
Photo of Shakaola Pinero, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shakaola Pinero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
(859) 535-9123 View (859) 535-9123
Photo of Alecia White, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alecia White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Self-Scheduling on Website - Telehealth Only - Accepting New Patients. Specializes in: Psychiatric medication management, Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, Mood disorders, and Trauma disorders.
Self-Scheduling on Website - Telehealth Only - Accepting New Patients. Specializes in: Psychiatric medication management, Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, Mood disorders, and Trauma disorders.
View
Photo of Andrew Mitchell, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrew Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202
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.
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.
(270) 736-1511 View (270) 736-1511
Photo of Faryal Mallick, MD, Psychiatrist
Faryal Mallick
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202
As a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist, I treat patients of all ages, with a particular emphasis on individuals ages 5-60. I have extensive experience in treating patients from diverse cultural backgrounds and LGBTQ+ identifying individuals. I utilize psychotherapy in combination with medication to provide a holistic treatment to my patients. I have received training in a variety of psychotherapy modalities, including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Family Therapy, and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Visit us: www.faryalmallickmd.com
As a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist, I treat patients of all ages, with a particular emphasis on individuals ages 5-60. I have extensive experience in treating patients from diverse cultural backgrounds and LGBTQ+ identifying individuals. I utilize psychotherapy in combination with medication to provide a holistic treatment to my patients. I have received training in a variety of psychotherapy modalities, including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Family Therapy, and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Visit us: www.faryalmallickmd.com
(813) 568-9873 View (813) 568-9873

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Teresa Ament, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Ament
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40220
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
(502) 547-7877 View (502) 547-7877
Photo of Dr. Erin Knopf, MD, FAAP, DBPN, CEDS, Psychiatrist
Dr. Erin Knopf
Psychiatrist, MD, FAAP, DBPN, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40201  (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

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 40202

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 40202 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
83% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Bipolar Disorder
61% ADHD
61% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 40202 see their clients

61% Online Only
39% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 40202?

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.