Psychiatrists in 40222

Photo of Robert H Stewart - Robert H Stewart (MD), MD, Psychiatrist
Robert H Stewart (MD)
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
Our calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of depression, the tension of anxiety, the stress of attention deficit/hyperactivity, the strain of bipolar depression, and the pain of trauma. Our practice motto is: “To heal sometimes, to relieve often, to console always.”
Our calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of depression, the tension of anxiety, the stress of attention deficit/hyperactivity, the strain of bipolar depression, and the pain of trauma. Our practice motto is: “To heal sometimes, to relieve often, to console always.”
(833) 780-1041 View (833) 780-1041
Photo of Ora Frankel - The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care, MD, Psychiatrist
The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
The Couch is Louisville's first and only immediate mental healthcare center,founded to help patients who are experiencing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety panic attacks, phobias, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, etc. Our mission is to provide patients with immediate support during a crisis, and to perform a complete psychiatric evaluation. We believe patients should be helped immediately when a mental health crisis arises. In these situations, patients who seek help are often facing two inadequate choices: waiting weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist, or going to the emergency room. We welcome walk-in patients.
The Couch is Louisville's first and only immediate mental healthcare center,founded to help patients who are experiencing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety panic attacks, phobias, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, etc. Our mission is to provide patients with immediate support during a crisis, and to perform a complete psychiatric evaluation. We believe patients should be helped immediately when a mental health crisis arises. In these situations, patients who seek help are often facing two inadequate choices: waiting weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist, or going to the emergency room. We welcome walk-in patients.
(502) 514-0497 View (502) 514-0497
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 Jessica Sibbie, PMHNP, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Sibbie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
(502) 586-3573 View (502) 586-3573
Photo of Autumn Shutt, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Autumn Shutt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
(502) 236-5432 View (502) 236-5432
Photo of Shaconya Richardson, APRN , PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shaconya Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lyndon, KY 40222
Hello I'm Shaconya. I have worked in mental healthcare over 15 years. Yes I love my career choice. I offer a client centered treatment approach. The greatest joy I have is being able to assist someone achieve their treatment goals. My clients range from 6-99. I treat many psychiatric disorders ranging from ADHD , depression, anxiety , bipolar disorder to schizophrenia. I truly believe brain health is the foundation of all health.
Hello I'm Shaconya. I have worked in mental healthcare over 15 years. Yes I love my career choice. I offer a client centered treatment approach. The greatest joy I have is being able to assist someone achieve their treatment goals. My clients range from 6-99. I treat many psychiatric disorders ranging from ADHD , depression, anxiety , bipolar disorder to schizophrenia. I truly believe brain health is the foundation of all health.
(502) 218-3917 View (502) 218-3917
Photo of Noreen Mason, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Noreen Mason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
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 Kayla Lesher, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayla Lesher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Appointments available for in person and Telehealth! At Inclusion Mental Health, we have 5 practitioners available with full prescriptive authority. Please visit inclusionmentalhealth.com to get to know our providers!
Appointments available for in person and Telehealth! At Inclusion Mental Health, we have 5 practitioners available with full prescriptive authority. Please visit inclusionmentalhealth.com to get to know our providers!
(502) 317-8134 View (502) 317-8134
Photo of Genevieve Mulkins, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Genevieve Mulkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
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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Photo of Brian T Briscoe, MD, Psychiatrist
Brian T Briscoe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
Are you a Christian looking for help? Feeling overwhelmed? Unable to fall asleep? Can't turn your mind off? Having mood swings or anxious thoughts? Unable to focus? In a 'dark place' and unable to pull yourself out? Been diagnosed with Depression, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, PTSD, ... or just wondering if you might be struggling with a medical or psychological issue?
Are you a Christian looking for help? Feeling overwhelmed? Unable to fall asleep? Can't turn your mind off? Having mood swings or anxious thoughts? Unable to focus? In a 'dark place' and unable to pull yourself out? Been diagnosed with Depression, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, PTSD, ... or just wondering if you might be struggling with a medical or psychological issue?
(502) 289-0649 View (502) 289-0649
Photo of Mandy Bliss - Bliss Progressive Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bliss Progressive Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
Are you tired of the 15 minute ‘med check’ style of psychiatric practice? Me too. I specialize in treatment of individuals with a history of trauma and/or depression and anxiety that have not responded to traditional treatments. When a client says, “I’ve tried every medicine out there – none of them work,” my response is, “Let’s dig deeper.” I practice from a trauma-informed perspective. I'm endlessly curious and a creative thinker - both of these traits shape how I prescribe medications and which non-medication treatments recommendations I make.
Are you tired of the 15 minute ‘med check’ style of psychiatric practice? Me too. I specialize in treatment of individuals with a history of trauma and/or depression and anxiety that have not responded to traditional treatments. When a client says, “I’ve tried every medicine out there – none of them work,” my response is, “Let’s dig deeper.” I practice from a trauma-informed perspective. I'm endlessly curious and a creative thinker - both of these traits shape how I prescribe medications and which non-medication treatments recommendations I make.
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Photo of Stephanie Hubbell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Hubbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Women’s Mental Health Specialists was founded to provide a safe, compassionate space where women can address their mental health needs with care that understands the unique challenges they face. The team at Women’s Mental Health Specialists, consisting of midwives with advanced mental health degrees, is dedicated to offering comprehensive, holistic care that attends to both the physical and emotional well-being of women.
Women’s Mental Health Specialists was founded to provide a safe, compassionate space where women can address their mental health needs with care that understands the unique challenges they face. The team at Women’s Mental Health Specialists, consisting of midwives with advanced mental health degrees, is dedicated to offering comprehensive, holistic care that attends to both the physical and emotional well-being of women.
(606) 731-2246 View (606) 731-2246
Photo of Victoria Spreitler, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Spreitler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
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 Brittney McKendrick, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittney McKendrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have psychiatry experience in helping in-patient, outpatient, and substance abuse clients. This includes those with; anxiety, depression, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I am trained to provide medication management for psychiatric problems throughout the lifespan. I strive to ensure that my clients are educated on their condition, medication, and that they are an active participant in their care-making decisions.
I have psychiatry experience in helping in-patient, outpatient, and substance abuse clients. This includes those with; anxiety, depression, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I am trained to provide medication management for psychiatric problems throughout the lifespan. I strive to ensure that my clients are educated on their condition, medication, and that they are an active participant in their care-making decisions.
(270) 751-7630 View (270) 751-7630
Photo of Katie Norris - Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN , RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40228
Accepting new patients! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 15 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical cannabis prescriber as well. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning, I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
Accepting new patients! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 15 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical cannabis prescriber as well. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning, I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
(502) 628-4079 View (502) 628-4079
Photo of Ron McGavic - Kentucky Psychiatry Louisville, MD, Psychiatrist
Kentucky Psychiatry Louisville
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40204
I am open to caring for most all patients with most all diagnoses. I, in particularly enjoy treating patients with TRAUMA and PTSD, Attention Deficit and Obsessive Compulsive disorders. I am very skilled, experienced, and capable of treating these and other common mental health issues like anxiety and depression, as well as personality disorders like bipolar disorder. If you or someone you know needs assistance in living and dealing with these types of issues I can certainly help you on the road to a better life.
I am open to caring for most all patients with most all diagnoses. I, in particularly enjoy treating patients with TRAUMA and PTSD, Attention Deficit and Obsessive Compulsive disorders. I am very skilled, experienced, and capable of treating these and other common mental health issues like anxiety and depression, as well as personality disorders like bipolar disorder. If you or someone you know needs assistance in living and dealing with these types of issues I can certainly help you on the road to a better life.
(502) 427-6326 View (502) 427-6326
Photo of Elizabeth Umemba, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Umemba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Elizabeth Umemba, PHMNP-BC, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with several years of experience in psychiatry. I received my Masters from the Walden University and have been practicing for over 4 years. Her practice is family-oriented, offering mental health services through telehealth. Her mission is to help our clients improve health and quality of life by providing outstanding affordable care, including a thorough assessment, treatment, and education.
Elizabeth Umemba, PHMNP-BC, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with several years of experience in psychiatry. I received my Masters from the Walden University and have been practicing for over 4 years. Her practice is family-oriented, offering mental health services through telehealth. Her mission is to help our clients improve health and quality of life by providing outstanding affordable care, including a thorough assessment, treatment, and education.
(859) 376-5760 View (859) 376-5760
Photo of Gihan Abdel Razik, MD, Psychiatrist
Gihan Abdel Razik
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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 Jessica Eckhoff - Sage Mental Health , PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sage Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
Our goal at Sage is for you, the patient, to be well and healthy. We promote both an encouraging and healing environment where we will assist (and promote!) your goals and be here for you each step of the way.
Our goal at Sage is for you, the patient, to be well and healthy. We promote both an encouraging and healing environment where we will assist (and promote!) your goals and be here for you each step of the way.
(502) 273-0496 View (502) 273-0496

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 40222

< 10

Psychiatrists in 40222 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
89% ADHD
89% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Bipolar Disorder
56% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Humana
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 40222 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 40222?

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.