Psychiatrists in 40504

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 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 Magdalen Mekoh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Magdalen Mekoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Kentucky. I received my Masters degree from Northern Kentucky University and have been practicing for over a year. I help people struggling with mental disorders like anxiety, depression, trauma, panic disorder, ADHD, etc. to function normally in their day to day lives by using the method of assessment, diagnosing, prescribing medication (medication management), and psychotherapy.
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Kentucky. I received my Masters degree from Northern Kentucky University and have been practicing for over a year. I help people struggling with mental disorders like anxiety, depression, trauma, panic disorder, ADHD, etc. to function normally in their day to day lives by using the method of assessment, diagnosing, prescribing medication (medication management), and psychotherapy.
(859) 374-8708 View (859) 374-8708
Photo of Shakaola Pinero, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shakaola Pinero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
(859) 535-9123 View (859) 535-9123
Photo of Markquetta Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Markquetta Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
(859) 651-7686 View (859) 651-7686
Photo of Karen LaFlair, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen LaFlair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My job is to empower my patients through education, collaborative decision-making, and fostering a therapeutic relationship that promotes healing and well being. Whether you're navigating mood disorders, anxiety or trauma, I offer more than just pills, but a partnership in your journey to optimize your mental health. Together, we can explore personalized strategies to enhance your resilience and quality of life. Let's work together to achieve your goals and cultivate lasting mental wellness through comprehensive psychiatric care and the integration of your mind and body.
My job is to empower my patients through education, collaborative decision-making, and fostering a therapeutic relationship that promotes healing and well being. Whether you're navigating mood disorders, anxiety or trauma, I offer more than just pills, but a partnership in your journey to optimize your mental health. Together, we can explore personalized strategies to enhance your resilience and quality of life. Let's work together to achieve your goals and cultivate lasting mental wellness through comprehensive psychiatric care and the integration of your mind and body.
(859) 470-3708 View (859) 470-3708
Photo of Ryan Bowlds, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Bowlds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504
Ryan Bowlds, PMHNP Ryan Bowlds is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor's degree in Nursing and completed a Psychiatric-Nurse Practitioner Master's degree from Western Kentucky University. Ryan offers not only medication management but the ability to provide psychotherapy-based therapeutic interventions. Outside of work, Ryan loves to play music, collect old music records, watch sports, and also play basketball and golf.
Ryan Bowlds, PMHNP Ryan Bowlds is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor's degree in Nursing and completed a Psychiatric-Nurse Practitioner Master's degree from Western Kentucky University. Ryan offers not only medication management but the ability to provide psychotherapy-based therapeutic interventions. Outside of work, Ryan loves to play music, collect old music records, watch sports, and also play basketball and golf.
(859) 712-9926 View (859) 712-9926
Photo of Kurt Kristiansen, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kurt Kristiansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
(502) 281-0323 View (502) 281-0323
Photo of Mariem Kader, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mariem Kader
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504
Mariem Kader, PMHNP, is a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner providing compassionate mental health care to individuals across Kentucky. She offers medication management and psychotherapy-based interventions to address a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and OCD. Mariem s holistic approach integrates evidence-based care with a focus on individual needs, helping clients navigate challenges like midlife transitions, grief, substance use, and sleep disorders.
Mariem Kader, PMHNP, is a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner providing compassionate mental health care to individuals across Kentucky. She offers medication management and psychotherapy-based interventions to address a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and OCD. Mariem s holistic approach integrates evidence-based care with a focus on individual needs, helping clients navigate challenges like midlife transitions, grief, substance use, and sleep disorders.
(859) 251-8510 View (859) 251-8510
Photo of Felix Brown, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse
Felix Brown
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504
Jeremy Brown is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Kentucky. He has served as a psychiatric registered nurse for the past 20 years providing care in both inpatient as well as outpatient care settings. He earned his Master of Science in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. Jeremy's areas of specialty include mood and thought disorders as well as treatment-refractory illness.
Jeremy Brown is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Kentucky. He has served as a psychiatric registered nurse for the past 20 years providing care in both inpatient as well as outpatient care settings. He earned his Master of Science in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. Jeremy's areas of specialty include mood and thought disorders as well as treatment-refractory illness.
(859) 374-8258 View (859) 374-8258
Photo of Chimdiya Osisioma, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chimdiya Osisioma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client experiences various mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, often feeling overwhelmed. They seek clarity and stability, aiming to develop effective coping strategies to manage their symptoms. Their goals include achieving balance, fostering resilience, and enhancing relationships. They aspire to feel empowered to navigate their challenges and reclaim joy in daily life. Ultimately, they seek a supportive partnership that guides them toward improved mental health and a fulfilling life.
My ideal client experiences various mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, often feeling overwhelmed. They seek clarity and stability, aiming to develop effective coping strategies to manage their symptoms. Their goals include achieving balance, fostering resilience, and enhancing relationships. They aspire to feel empowered to navigate their challenges and reclaim joy in daily life. Ultimately, they seek a supportive partnership that guides them toward improved mental health and a fulfilling life.
(859) 376-4461 View (859) 376-4461
Photo of Alicia Carlos, DO, Psychiatrist
Alicia Carlos
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504
Understanding the unique challenges that children and adolescents face, Dr. Carlos utilizes evidencebased approaches to medication management tailored to each individual’s needs. Her goal is to empower her patients and their caregivers, fostering resilience and wellbeing. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Carlos is deeply passionate about working with populations such as those in adoption/foster care, individuals with autism spectrum disorders, and those with developmental disabilities. She believes in providing inclusive and personalized care to each person she serves. Outside of her practice, Dr.
Understanding the unique challenges that children and adolescents face, Dr. Carlos utilizes evidencebased approaches to medication management tailored to each individual’s needs. Her goal is to empower her patients and their caregivers, fostering resilience and wellbeing. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Carlos is deeply passionate about working with populations such as those in adoption/foster care, individuals with autism spectrum disorders, and those with developmental disabilities. She believes in providing inclusive and personalized care to each person she serves. Outside of her practice, Dr.
(859) 493-8993 View (859) 493-8993
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 Dr. Alicia Carlos - LifeStance Health - Lexington, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health - Lexington
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504
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.
(859) 376-4365 View (859) 376-4365
Photo of Allie Carmichael, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Allie Carmichael
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504
Allie Carmichael is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2022. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Kentucky and her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville. Allie has experience working as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric setting on children, adolescent, and adult units. She has experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner working with adults in an inpatient psychiatric unit.
Allie Carmichael is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2022. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Kentucky and her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville. Allie has experience working as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric setting on children, adolescent, and adult units. She has experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner working with adults in an inpatient psychiatric unit.
(859) 517-4382 View (859) 517-4382
Photo of Brian Richardson, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brian Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
(859) 374-7088 View (859) 374-7088
Debra A Katz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I treat patients who seek help for a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, underachievement and feeling overwhelmed or stressed. I treat children, adolescents and adults and have extensive experience treating professionals including physicians, lawyers, executives, teachers and mental health professionals. I have worked in student health in a university setting and am experienced treating students facing academic difficulties. I served as Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Vice Chair for Education and Director of Residency Training in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Kentucky for many years.
I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I treat patients who seek help for a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, underachievement and feeling overwhelmed or stressed. I treat children, adolescents and adults and have extensive experience treating professionals including physicians, lawyers, executives, teachers and mental health professionals. I have worked in student health in a university setting and am experienced treating students facing academic difficulties. I served as Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Vice Chair for Education and Director of Residency Training in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Kentucky for many years.
(859) 537-7152 View (859) 537-7152
Photo of Stephanie Hubbell - Stephanie Hubbell @Womens Mental Health Specialist, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Hubbell @Womens Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping women overcome anxiety, depression, and stress. My tailored approach includes personalized medication plans, supplement guidance, coaching, therapy referrals, and actionable goal-setting. You'll see benefits like improved mood, reduced stress, and greater emotional balance.
I specialize in helping women overcome anxiety, depression, and stress. My tailored approach includes personalized medication plans, supplement guidance, coaching, therapy referrals, and actionable goal-setting. You'll see benefits like improved mood, reduced stress, and greater emotional balance.
(606) 603-3642 View (606) 603-3642
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 Jeffrey Tuttle, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeffrey Tuttle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a licensed psychiatrist practicing psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I believe psychotherapy is an important but frequently overlooked treatment for many mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis help people address emotional problems and internal conflicts in order to increase self-understanding and freedom. Professional advice about personal issues or emotional concerns can be invaluable in confronting seeming roadblocks that prevent a person from experiencing a sense of emotional freedom. I treat older adolescents and adults.
I am a licensed psychiatrist practicing psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I believe psychotherapy is an important but frequently overlooked treatment for many mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis help people address emotional problems and internal conflicts in order to increase self-understanding and freedom. Professional advice about personal issues or emotional concerns can be invaluable in confronting seeming roadblocks that prevent a person from experiencing a sense of emotional freedom. I treat older adolescents and adults.
(859) 537-7332 View (859) 537-7332
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 40504

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 40504 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
71% Trauma and PTSD
67% Sleep or Insomnia
62% ADHD
62% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Other
76% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 40504 see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 40504?

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.