Psychiatrists in 40224

Photo of Ora Frankel - The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care, MD, Psychiatrist
The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Alphonso Nichols, MD, Psychiatrist
Alphonso Nichols
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
Are you trying to find help for your son or daughter? Is your child struggling? Concerned your child seems overly anxious or worried? Irritable? Depressed? Angry all the time? Is your child having trouble paying attention in class, seem 'hyperactive', or falling behind in school? Are you frustrated with your child or adolescent's problematic behavior that keeps happening over and over again? Has your child been diagnosed with ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Autism... or are you wondering if your son or daughter might be struggling with a psychiatric or emotional issue?
Are you trying to find help for your son or daughter? Is your child struggling? Concerned your child seems overly anxious or worried? Irritable? Depressed? Angry all the time? Is your child having trouble paying attention in class, seem 'hyperactive', or falling behind in school? Are you frustrated with your child or adolescent's problematic behavior that keeps happening over and over again? Has your child been diagnosed with ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Autism... or are you wondering if your son or daughter might be struggling with a psychiatric or emotional issue?
(502) 339-2442 View (502) 339-2442
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 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 Hannah Morrison, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
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 Allison Yoder, MD, Psychiatrist
Allison Yoder
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40241
My ideal client is a child, teen, or young adult (college age) navigating challenges like anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, or autism spectrum disorder. They may feel overwhelmed by emotions, school stress, or social struggles. They seek clarity, coping tools, and meaningful support to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve personal or academic goals in a nurturing environment.
My ideal client is a child, teen, or young adult (college age) navigating challenges like anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, or autism spectrum disorder. They may feel overwhelmed by emotions, school stress, or social struggles. They seek clarity, coping tools, and meaningful support to regain stability, build resilience, and achieve personal or academic goals in a nurturing environment.
(502) 557-1741 View (502) 557-1741
Photo of Noreen Mason, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Noreen Mason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40204
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 Elizabeth Smoot, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Smoot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
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 Carol S McLennan, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carol S McLennan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, NP-C
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40241
I am a psychiatric Nurse practitioner and a Family nurse practitioner with over 20 years experience treating a variety of diagnoses including PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Type I & II, as well as schizophrenia; ages 12 to 65; Specializing in military populations. Can provide in person & Telehealth appts. Psychiatric evaluations & medication management.
I am a psychiatric Nurse practitioner and a Family nurse practitioner with over 20 years experience treating a variety of diagnoses including PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Type I & II, as well as schizophrenia; ages 12 to 65; Specializing in military populations. Can provide in person & Telehealth appts. Psychiatric evaluations & medication management.
(502) 401-1470 View (502) 401-1470
Photo of Erin Whitehouse, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin Whitehouse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I find empathy and unconditional positive regard to be healing in and of itself; however, I also understand the value of clinical training and learning to implement interventions according to my client’s needs.
I find empathy and unconditional positive regard to be healing in and of itself; however, I also understand the value of clinical training and learning to implement interventions according to my client’s needs.
(502) 317-8622 View (502) 317-8622
Photo of John Christopher Dixon, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Christopher Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
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 Danielle Bass, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Bass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
(502) 306-0293 View (502) 306-0293
Photo of JoLynn Gaither-Crenshaw, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
JoLynn Gaither-Crenshaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40228
Welcome to JoLynn Gaither Behavioral HealthCare Services, PLLC. I am a Masters prepared dual-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in a variety of mental health disorders. I provide telehealth online services for medication management for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder to name a few.
Welcome to JoLynn Gaither Behavioral HealthCare Services, PLLC. I am a Masters prepared dual-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in a variety of mental health disorders. I provide telehealth online services for medication management for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder to name a few.
(502) 743-4115 View (502) 743-4115
Photo of Maryl Smith, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maryl Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner at our Aptiva Health Mental Wellness Trauma Center, I am committed to providing expert mental health support via medications to help you navigate your healing and improve your quality of life. With an extensive background in psychiatry and mental health and a deep passion for helping others, I offer medical care tailored to each individual's unique needs, promoting healing and growth in a compassionate and understanding environment.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner at our Aptiva Health Mental Wellness Trauma Center, I am committed to providing expert mental health support via medications to help you navigate your healing and improve your quality of life. With an extensive background in psychiatry and mental health and a deep passion for helping others, I offer medical care tailored to each individual's unique needs, promoting healing and growth in a compassionate and understanding environment.
(502) 837-9016 View (502) 837-9016
Photo of Cindy Petzke, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cindy Petzke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40204
Hello! I am a caring, knowledgeable healthcare professional with over 28 years of nursing experience. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for over 8 years and am experienced with all mental health populations. I am an Air Force Nurse Corp Veteran. I understand military and civilian problems. I understand trauma, individual, and family issues. I enjoy helping all age groups of people.
Hello! I am a caring, knowledgeable healthcare professional with over 28 years of nursing experience. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for over 8 years and am experienced with all mental health populations. I am an Air Force Nurse Corp Veteran. I understand military and civilian problems. I understand trauma, individual, and family issues. I enjoy helping all age groups of people.
(502) 309-2879 View (502) 309-2879
Photo of Dane Mendelsohn, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dane Mendelsohn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40241
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Crisis Stabilization, Addiction Medicine, Women’s Health, and General Psychiatry. With six years of experience in psychiatry, I am equipped to treat patients of all ages. I offer various psychotherapy services such as lifestyle modification, manifestation, and mindfulness, and view medications as a tool not as a solution. Currently, I serve as a Medical Officer in the United States Air Force and have extensive knowledge in writing Veteran Affairs disability claim evaluations. I received my BSN from UofL and my MSN from WKU.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Crisis Stabilization, Addiction Medicine, Women’s Health, and General Psychiatry. With six years of experience in psychiatry, I am equipped to treat patients of all ages. I offer various psychotherapy services such as lifestyle modification, manifestation, and mindfulness, and view medications as a tool not as a solution. Currently, I serve as a Medical Officer in the United States Air Force and have extensive knowledge in writing Veteran Affairs disability claim evaluations. I received my BSN from UofL and my MSN from WKU.
(502) 503-5549 View (502) 503-5549
Photo of 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 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 Stephen Michael Taylor, MD, PLLC, Psychiatrist
Stephen Michael Taylor
Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40217
My work as a psychiatrist and a psychoanalyst in training inform my approach to psychotherapy. Traditional psychoanalysis is central to my work which is to help patients experience themselves and their world more fully.
My work as a psychiatrist and a psychoanalyst in training inform my approach to psychotherapy. Traditional psychoanalysis is central to my work which is to help patients experience themselves and their world more fully.
(502) 289-6207 View (502) 289-6207
Photo of Laura Quesenberry, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Quesenberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
Laura is board-certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has extensive experience in the field of neurology as well as assessing, diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health issues using evidence-based methods. She is passionate about fostering a welcoming and accepting environment. She believes in collaborating closely with each patient and understanding their unique situation in order to help each person attain their optimal level of health.
Laura is board-certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has extensive experience in the field of neurology as well as assessing, diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health issues using evidence-based methods. She is passionate about fostering a welcoming and accepting environment. She believes in collaborating closely with each patient and understanding their unique situation in order to help each person attain their optimal level of health.
(502) 427-0586 View (502) 427-0586

See more therapy options for 40224

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 40224

< 10

Psychiatrists in 40224 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Parenting
100% Trauma and PTSD

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in 40224 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 40224?

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.