Psychiatrists in 40205

Photo of Genevieve Mulkins, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Genevieve Mulkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40205
Is your child, teenager, or college student struggling with emotional regulation, school, building and keeping friends, perfectionism, sleep, focus, concentration, multi-tasking, anxiety, ADHD, depression, OCD tendencies, or other aspects of life? Do you feel you are doing everything and still struggle to find them answers? It is frustrating when you are giving your all and you can not help your child live the life you know they are capable of, as well as, enjoy the family life you have worked hard for and dreamed of.
Is your child, teenager, or college student struggling with emotional regulation, school, building and keeping friends, perfectionism, sleep, focus, concentration, multi-tasking, anxiety, ADHD, depression, OCD tendencies, or other aspects of life? Do you feel you are doing everything and still struggle to find them answers? It is frustrating when you are giving your all and you can not help your child live the life you know they are capable of, as well as, enjoy the family life you have worked hard for and dreamed of.
(502) 218-3616 View (502) 218-3616
Photo of Mark Bush, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of helping people manage their mental health wellness. I believe that mental wellness is a key foundation for overall health. I understand that all my clients are unique and valued individuals who deserve acceptance, appreciation, support, and compassion. My perfect client would be someone struggling with life’s challenges who wants to obtain optimal happiness and wellness. My goal is simple - to assist you to live your very best life. Everyone deserves that!
Accepting New Patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of helping people manage their mental health wellness. I believe that mental wellness is a key foundation for overall health. I understand that all my clients are unique and valued individuals who deserve acceptance, appreciation, support, and compassion. My perfect client would be someone struggling with life’s challenges who wants to obtain optimal happiness and wellness. My goal is simple - to assist you to live your very best life. Everyone deserves that!
(502) 419-4289 View (502) 419-4289
Photo of Noreen Mason, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Noreen Mason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Noreen Mason is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychopharmacology across the lifespan. She completed her initial training as a Nurse Practitioner in 2003 and thereafter achieved dual board certification as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Her extensive and wide ranging 20 year experience as a medical provider, coupled with natural curiosity and empathy, provide a distinctive approach. She considers a multitude of root causes that are often overlooked in Psychiatry, and is uniquely positioned to help those who have not found relief.
Noreen Mason is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychopharmacology across the lifespan. She completed her initial training as a Nurse Practitioner in 2003 and thereafter achieved dual board certification as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Her extensive and wide ranging 20 year experience as a medical provider, coupled with natural curiosity and empathy, provide a distinctive approach. She considers a multitude of root causes that are often overlooked in Psychiatry, and is uniquely positioned to help those who have not found relief.
(502) 536-8337 View (502) 536-8337
Photo of Patricia Estes, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Estes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Amber Estes is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. She has an MSN from Northern Kentucky University, a BSN in Nursing from University of Kentucky, and a BA in Psychology from University of Kentucky. Amber specifically has experience in helping patients cope with stressors associated with chronic health conditions and other major life stressors. She strives to provide individualized care that supports the unique differences of each client she sees. Outside of work, Amber enjoys hiking, spending time with family, and traveling.
Amber Estes is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. She has an MSN from Northern Kentucky University, a BSN in Nursing from University of Kentucky, and a BA in Psychology from University of Kentucky. Amber specifically has experience in helping patients cope with stressors associated with chronic health conditions and other major life stressors. She strives to provide individualized care that supports the unique differences of each client she sees. Outside of work, Amber enjoys hiking, spending time with family, and traveling.
(502) 563-1286 View (502) 563-1286
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(502) 385-3851 View (502) 385-3851
Photo of Teresa Ament, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Ament
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Morgan Smither, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Morgan Smither
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
(502) 317-0567 View (502) 317-0567
Photo of Hannah Morrison, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hannah Morrison is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She completed her BSN at University of Kentucky and her MSN at Frontier Nursing University. She works with children and adults, ages 6-64, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment and medication management of a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), postpartum anxiety/depression, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and bipolar disorder.
Hannah Morrison is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She completed her BSN at University of Kentucky and her MSN at Frontier Nursing University. She works with children and adults, ages 6-64, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment and medication management of a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), postpartum anxiety/depression, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and bipolar disorder.
(502) 427-7382 View (502) 427-7382
Photo of Elizabeth Smoot, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Smoot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
(502) 706-3997 View (502) 706-3997
Photo of Treven Back, APRN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Treven Back
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a provider, I believe in treating everyone has human and not labeling someone based on their diagnosis. As the need for mental health care continues to increase, I provide a warm and opening setting for clients to seek help. My focus is on the client and making sure that they are prepared to face everyday life.
As a provider, I believe in treating everyone has human and not labeling someone based on their diagnosis. As the need for mental health care continues to increase, I provide a warm and opening setting for clients to seek help. My focus is on the client and making sure that they are prepared to face everyday life.
(859) 651-8457 View (859) 651-8457
Photo of Karla Hopkins, PMHNP-A, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karla Hopkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-A
Verified Verified
Serves Area
(502) 673-1448 View (502) 673-1448

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Magdalen K Mekoh - Magdalen Mekoh - Headway, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Magdalen Mekoh - Headway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am here to help if you are struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, alcohol and substance use disorder and other psychiatric disorders. If you feel that things are not going well and you want to talk to someone to identify what is wrong, I am here to help. I believe in getting to the root of issues so, I try to provide a platform for patients to express themselves and together we try to touch the root cause of their problems instead of just treating symptoms.
I am here to help if you are struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, alcohol and substance use disorder and other psychiatric disorders. If you feel that things are not going well and you want to talk to someone to identify what is wrong, I am here to help. I believe in getting to the root of issues so, I try to provide a platform for patients to express themselves and together we try to touch the root cause of their problems instead of just treating symptoms.
(859) 376-5295 View (859) 376-5295
Photo of Aiyesha Stiles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aiyesha Stiles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Dr. Melissa Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Melissa Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Dr. Whitney Gilley, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Whitney Gilley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Katie - - Awen Health Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie - - Awen Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
Now Taking New Patients. Telehealth and Inpatient Appointments I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with training and experience assessing and treating adults and children focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD and addiction recovery. As part of a multidisciplinary team, I work in collaboration with other treatment providers to ensure proper medication management for all patients
Now Taking New Patients. Telehealth and Inpatient Appointments I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with training and experience assessing and treating adults and children focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD and addiction recovery. As part of a multidisciplinary team, I work in collaboration with other treatment providers to ensure proper medication management for all patients
(502) 286-1263 View (502) 286-1263
Photo of Kristin Gosden, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristin Gosden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
I believe access to mental healthcare is a necessity. My goal is to help you optimize your mental health. I am a firm believer in the mind-body connection and that mental and physical health are deeply intertwined. Collectively, we can discover methods that help you to have everyday success instead of merely surviving. Together, we can find the best way for you to navigate through all parts of life.
I believe access to mental healthcare is a necessity. My goal is to help you optimize your mental health. I am a firm believer in the mind-body connection and that mental and physical health are deeply intertwined. Collectively, we can discover methods that help you to have everyday success instead of merely surviving. Together, we can find the best way for you to navigate through all parts of life.
(502) 401-1802 View (502) 401-1802
Photo of Courtney Albers, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Courtney Albers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
It can feel like you’re doing everything right—working hard, chasing your dreams, and showing up for the people in your life—but still, something seems to be holding you back. Anxiety, perfectionism, and self-criticism can feel like a heavy weight that keeps you stuck, replaying old experiences or feeling like you’ll never truly be enough. It’s frustrating when you’re giving your all and yet still feel like you’re not living the life you know you’re capable of.
It can feel like you’re doing everything right—working hard, chasing your dreams, and showing up for the people in your life—but still, something seems to be holding you back. Anxiety, perfectionism, and self-criticism can feel like a heavy weight that keeps you stuck, replaying old experiences or feeling like you’ll never truly be enough. It’s frustrating when you’re giving your all and yet still feel like you’re not living the life you know you’re capable of.
(502) 233-1237 View (502) 233-1237
Photo of Erica Cecil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erica Cecil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
(502) 409-6993 View (502) 409-6993
Natoya Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40291
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
Diverse Health was founded in 2021 with a mission to deliver accessible, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare services through our state-of-the-art telehealth platform. We specialize in providing virtual primary care and mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, provider oversight, and medication management for mood disorders, chronic diseases, and acute care needs. Our commitment to equity in health and excellence in care drives us to serve underserved and minority communities, ensuring everyone receives the attention they need.
(502) 465-8588 View (502) 465-8588

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 40205

10+

Average cost per session

$350

Psychiatrists in 40205 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
91% Medication Management
82% Bipolar Disorder
73% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 40205 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 40205?

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.