Psychiatrists in 40513

Photo of Alicia Carlos, DO, Psychiatrist
Alicia Carlos
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
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.
(877) 830-0740 View (877) 830-0740
Photo of Brian Richardson, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brian Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
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
Photo of Ryan Bowlds, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Bowlds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
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 Elizabeth Templeman, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Templeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
I blend traditional psychiatric approaches with complementary therapies to provide holistic care for my patients. By integrating medication management with techniques like lifestyle modification, mindfulness, neurofeedback, and nutritional medicine, I aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote long-term wellness. My goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their treatment journey by fostering a collaborative approach in a supporting, therapeutic environment.
I blend traditional psychiatric approaches with complementary therapies to provide holistic care for my patients. By integrating medication management with techniques like lifestyle modification, mindfulness, neurofeedback, and nutritional medicine, I aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote long-term wellness. My goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their treatment journey by fostering a collaborative approach in a supporting, therapeutic environment.
(859) 340-8958 View (859) 340-8958
Photo of Allie Carmichael, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Allie Carmichael
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
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 Rebecca Feck, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Feck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40513
I am passionate about Mental Healthcare and assisting you in gaining the quality of life you deserve. I believe that through accurate diagnosis and medication management all clients will begin to realize thier personal self worth, believe in their full potential and reach thier individual mental health goals. I practice a holistic approach to mental health by utilizing safe effective medication treatment of your symptoms and educating you regarding your diagnosis and individual treatment plan. By creating a partnership with each client, a level of “teamwork” can be achieved culminating in the best therapeutic outcome for you.
I am passionate about Mental Healthcare and assisting you in gaining the quality of life you deserve. I believe that through accurate diagnosis and medication management all clients will begin to realize thier personal self worth, believe in their full potential and reach thier individual mental health goals. I practice a holistic approach to mental health by utilizing safe effective medication treatment of your symptoms and educating you regarding your diagnosis and individual treatment plan. By creating a partnership with each client, a level of “teamwork” can be achieved culminating in the best therapeutic outcome for you.
(859) 724-6024 View (859) 724-6024
Photo of Hoyt Noble - PRISM Wellness Solutions, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
PRISM Wellness Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
PRISM Wellness Solutions was established in 2022 after the COVID-19 pandemic emphasized a major lapse in access to mental health services. Finding the right provider is not always easy but we are confident that you will find a match here.
PRISM Wellness Solutions was established in 2022 after the COVID-19 pandemic emphasized a major lapse in access to mental health services. Finding the right provider is not always easy but we are confident that you will find a match here.
(859) 494-9984 View (859) 494-9984
Photo of Brittany Robinson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for holistic healing, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations with medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that true healing occurs when we address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for holistic healing, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations with medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that true healing occurs when we address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
(859) 484-6763 View (859) 484-6763
Photo of Felix Brown, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse
Felix Brown
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
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 Ramesh Ghanta, MD, Psychiatrist
Ramesh Ghanta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
Board certified in Psychiatry Adult/Board certified in addiction medicine.
Board certified in Psychiatry Adult/Board certified in addiction medicine.
(502) 427-7778 View (502) 427-7778
Photo of Leigh (Ann) Gebhardt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leigh (Ann) Gebhardt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
Leigh Ann Gebhardt, PMHNP Leigh Ann Gebhardt is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2018. She has a BSN (Nursing), an MSN (Nursing Education), an MSN (Family Nurse Practitioner), an MSN Certification (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), and Juris Doctorate. Leigh Ann believes in a wholistic approach of healthcare and tries to partner with patients to help provide treatment that supports optimal healthcare outcomes.
Leigh Ann Gebhardt, PMHNP Leigh Ann Gebhardt is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2018. She has a BSN (Nursing), an MSN (Nursing Education), an MSN (Family Nurse Practitioner), an MSN Certification (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), and Juris Doctorate. Leigh Ann believes in a wholistic approach of healthcare and tries to partner with patients to help provide treatment that supports optimal healthcare outcomes.
(859) 681-9231 View (859) 681-9231
Photo of Lauren M Williams, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren M Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
Lauren Williams is a double board-certified adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience working as a nurse and nurse practitioner with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and her master’s degree from Ball State University and Maryville University. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She works with children and adults, ages 8 and older, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders.
Lauren Williams is a double board-certified adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience working as a nurse and nurse practitioner with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and her master’s degree from Ball State University and Maryville University. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She works with children and adults, ages 8 and older, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders.
(502) 237-4470 View (502) 237-4470
Photo of Dr. Kristin Dawson, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kristin Dawson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
Every one of us is on an expedition and most of us have encountered suffering along the way. We are here to act as guides during the most difficult parts of your mental health journey. Your treatment team will assess which stage of the journey you find yourself in now. You may be seeking relief from psychiatric symptoms, exploring healing from trauma, trying to optimize your mind, body and spirit or building a thriving life - Expedition Mental Health is ready to join you on your journey to greater mental health.
Every one of us is on an expedition and most of us have encountered suffering along the way. We are here to act as guides during the most difficult parts of your mental health journey. Your treatment team will assess which stage of the journey you find yourself in now. You may be seeking relief from psychiatric symptoms, exploring healing from trauma, trying to optimize your mind, body and spirit or building a thriving life - Expedition Mental Health is ready to join you on your journey to greater mental health.
(859) 374-7085 View (859) 374-7085

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Shakaola Pinero, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shakaola Pinero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (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 Danielle Bass, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Bass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (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 Markquetta Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Markquetta Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (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 Kurt Kristiansen, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kurt Kristiansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40504  (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 Cheryl Lynn Marrs, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cheryl Lynn Marrs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
We are not born with the skills to handle life or our emotions. If we did not have people surrounding us as we grew who knew these skills and could teach us, then we did whatever we could to get through the emotion or situation we were faced with. This continued and evolved over time-maybe it changed into substance use, maybe into chronic dishonesty, or maybe we just tried to disappear into the background. Eventually these coping skills stopped working and we become desperate for the pain to stop. This is the perfect time a person can completely change their life and become who they were meant to be. THIS is the second chance!
We are not born with the skills to handle life or our emotions. If we did not have people surrounding us as we grew who knew these skills and could teach us, then we did whatever we could to get through the emotion or situation we were faced with. This continued and evolved over time-maybe it changed into substance use, maybe into chronic dishonesty, or maybe we just tried to disappear into the background. Eventually these coping skills stopped working and we become desperate for the pain to stop. This is the perfect time a person can completely change their life and become who they were meant to be. THIS is the second chance!
(859) 429-0718 View (859) 429-0718
Photo of Aiyesha Stiles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aiyesha Stiles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (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 Dawn Glowatz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawn Glowatz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Dawn and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 13 years of experience treating and working with clients of all ages. I believe that the relationship between a psychiatric nurse practitioner and the clients she serves is a partnership of trust and understanding.
Hi! I'm Dawn and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 13 years of experience treating and working with clients of all ages. I believe that the relationship between a psychiatric nurse practitioner and the clients she serves is a partnership of trust and understanding.
(859) 374-3430 View (859) 374-3430

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 40513

10+

Average cost per session

$235

Psychiatrists in 40513 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
92% Anxiety
92% Bipolar Disorder
77% ADHD
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Medication Management
69% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
64% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 40513 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 40513?

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.