Psychiatrists in 42103

Photo of Travis Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, EMTP
Travis Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, EMTP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Before accomplishing my educational goals, I served in the United States Army, and was a law enforcement officer. I have been a paramedic for more than a decade, and have been deployed overseas. I credit my civil service experience in helping prepare me to help others better understand the impacts of trauma and stress both mentally and physically. I see all ages from 10 years of age and up. I am LGBTQ supportive, and feel everyone should be encouraged to be themselves and loved! I continue to support our veterans, first responders, emergency services personnel through my clinical work, helping those that help others!
Before accomplishing my educational goals, I served in the United States Army, and was a law enforcement officer. I have been a paramedic for more than a decade, and have been deployed overseas. I credit my civil service experience in helping prepare me to help others better understand the impacts of trauma and stress both mentally and physically. I see all ages from 10 years of age and up. I am LGBTQ supportive, and feel everyone should be encouraged to be themselves and loved! I continue to support our veterans, first responders, emergency services personnel through my clinical work, helping those that help others!
(321) 405-1979 View (321) 405-1979
Photo of Courtney Albers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Courtney Albers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Melanie Wright, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melanie Wright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My goal as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to aid individuals of all ages in need of mental health services in achieving a healthy level of functioning, which will enhance their overall well-being. This includes, but is not limited to, the issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I provide medication management and treatment across the lifespan. I collaborate with other mental health professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, to ensure a holistic approach in providing care is achieved. I have 9 years of experience as a PMHNP, and 22 years of experience working in the mental health field.
My goal as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is to aid individuals of all ages in need of mental health services in achieving a healthy level of functioning, which will enhance their overall well-being. This includes, but is not limited to, the issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I provide medication management and treatment across the lifespan. I collaborate with other mental health professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, to ensure a holistic approach in providing care is achieved. I have 9 years of experience as a PMHNP, and 22 years of experience working in the mental health field.
(270) 817-7626 View (270) 817-7626
Photo of Donna Joy Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Donna Joy Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you need help with your energy, focus, mood, or sleep? Do you feel overly tired, anxious, overwhelmed, withdrawn, sad or simply stressed out ? Donna's mission is to help you feel your best, mentally and physically. Donna is a Psychiatric NP (PMHNP) licensed in Kentucky. Her experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner has especially prepared her to consider underlying medical issues that may affect your mental health. She takes an integrative holistic approach to care, offering medication management, supplement recommendations, and brief supportive psychotherapy.
Do you need help with your energy, focus, mood, or sleep? Do you feel overly tired, anxious, overwhelmed, withdrawn, sad or simply stressed out ? Donna's mission is to help you feel your best, mentally and physically. Donna is a Psychiatric NP (PMHNP) licensed in Kentucky. Her experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner has especially prepared her to consider underlying medical issues that may affect your mental health. She takes an integrative holistic approach to care, offering medication management, supplement recommendations, and brief supportive psychotherapy.
(270) 216-2212 View (270) 216-2212
Photo of Dr. Linda Mays - Family Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Family Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
“I believe one of the bravest things you can do for yourself is to take control of your happiness." Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, feel confident you have made the right decision in choosing me. I listen to you and partner with you to restore you to your healthy place. I am a prescriber, but I am not a pill pusher. I used state-of-the-art clinical research to guide my recommendations to you. If you are looking for a REAL solution to heal your mind, body, and soul, look no further. Call Family Psychiatric Services for medication management, medical cannabis treatment (in KY), and psychiatric evaluations.
“I believe one of the bravest things you can do for yourself is to take control of your happiness." Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, feel confident you have made the right decision in choosing me. I listen to you and partner with you to restore you to your healthy place. I am a prescriber, but I am not a pill pusher. I used state-of-the-art clinical research to guide my recommendations to you. If you are looking for a REAL solution to heal your mind, body, and soul, look no further. Call Family Psychiatric Services for medication management, medical cannabis treatment (in KY), and psychiatric evaluations.
(270) 838-2235 View (270) 838-2235
Photo of Daltrey Tyree, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Daltrey Tyree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101
Waitlist for new clients
Mental health struggles can be overwhelming at times and feel isolating. Just as care is needed for physical struggles, care is also needed to help resolve mental struggles. An important factor in healing from psychological ailments is reduction of social stigmas and non-judgmental attitudes. Acceptance, encouragement, hope and education are key to empowering people who are suffering. Improved comfort and functionality are crucial aspects of healing. Resilient mental health means adapting or overcoming challenges. Everyone deserves a chance to find wellness in their mental health struggles.
Mental health struggles can be overwhelming at times and feel isolating. Just as care is needed for physical struggles, care is also needed to help resolve mental struggles. An important factor in healing from psychological ailments is reduction of social stigmas and non-judgmental attitudes. Acceptance, encouragement, hope and education are key to empowering people who are suffering. Improved comfort and functionality are crucial aspects of healing. Resilient mental health means adapting or overcoming challenges. Everyone deserves a chance to find wellness in their mental health struggles.
(270) 721-5866 View (270) 721-5866
Photo of Holly Kent, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Holly Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have over ten years of experience in nursing and different areas of expertise, including critical care and psychiatry. I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past four years. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. I work with clients across the lifespan and specialize in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, and ADHD.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have over ten years of experience in nursing and different areas of expertise, including critical care and psychiatry. I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past four years. I am a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. I work with clients across the lifespan and specialize in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, and ADHD.
(859) 374-7292 View (859) 374-7292
Photo of Angel Opara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angel Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bowling Green, KY 42101
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
(859) 712-1041 View (859) 712-1041
Photo of Dr. Meredith C Wood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ANP, PMHNP
Dr. Meredith C Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ANP, PMHNP
Online Only
I am accepting new patients age 6 years and older for medication management. I have over 19 years of healthcare experience. All appointments are via telehealth using doxy.me. At PsychMind, we have a team of mental health professionals who also provide therapy. Call or email for any questions or to get started with scheduling.
I am accepting new patients age 6 years and older for medication management. I have over 19 years of healthcare experience. All appointments are via telehealth using doxy.me. At PsychMind, we have a team of mental health professionals who also provide therapy. Call or email for any questions or to get started with scheduling.
(859) 470-8860 View (859) 470-8860
Photo of Huma Qadir - Kentucky Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Kentucky Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
At Kentucky Psychiatry we believe YOU ARE IMPORTANT. We are a dynamic office of 5 providers, including Psychiatrist, Psychiatric NPs & Therapists. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important. If you are in need of therapy, someone to talk to, someone who can help lead you through the dark times, we can help. If medication is needed, our talented staff of psychiatrist and psychiatric nurse practitioners can help you find your balance. You are important. You deserve to feel good.
At Kentucky Psychiatry we believe YOU ARE IMPORTANT. We are a dynamic office of 5 providers, including Psychiatrist, Psychiatric NPs & Therapists. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important. If you are in need of therapy, someone to talk to, someone who can help lead you through the dark times, we can help. If medication is needed, our talented staff of psychiatrist and psychiatric nurse practitioners can help you find your balance. You are important. You deserve to feel good.
(270) 290-1041 View (270) 290-1041
Photo of Nicole Asante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville, Tennessee, and working with clients in Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville, Tennessee, and working with clients in Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(859) 696-7861 View (859) 696-7861
Photo of Sandra Edwards, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sandra Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards, APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time, seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact, whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders, and substance use disorder.
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards, APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time, seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact, whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders, and substance use disorder.
(859) 927-8539 View (859) 927-8539
Photo of Margaret Ribby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Margaret Ribby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
Life presents numerous moments of stressful challenges. Both adults and adolescents may find these challenges impact their ability to maintain their lives or fulfill their responsibilities. Reaching a state of wellbeing can be difficult but is possible.
Life presents numerous moments of stressful challenges. Both adults and adolescents may find these challenges impact their ability to maintain their lives or fulfill their responsibilities. Reaching a state of wellbeing can be difficult but is possible.
(270) 569-4834 View (270) 569-4834
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Kentucky state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $85-109 Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Kentucky state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $85-109 Accepting some insurances.
(930) 205-4161 View (930) 205-4161
Photo of Kalyan Subedi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kalyan Subedi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Kalyan Subedi, DNP, PMHNP. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. My approach to care is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as CBT and psychopharmacology, tailored to each patient’s needs.
Hello, my name is Dr. Kalyan Subedi, DNP, PMHNP. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. My approach to care is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as CBT and psychopharmacology, tailored to each patient’s needs.
(859) 374-2204 View (859) 374-2204
Photo of Jose Cruz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jose Cruz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Jose Cruz, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental health support is holistic and client-centered. While my primary focus is medication management, therapeutic approaches are woven into sessions with clients, such as supportive therapy, solution-focused therapy, and behavioral activation. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. I see several clients who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I can help you manage a variety of mental health needs, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
My name is Jose Cruz, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental health support is holistic and client-centered. While my primary focus is medication management, therapeutic approaches are woven into sessions with clients, such as supportive therapy, solution-focused therapy, and behavioral activation. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. I see several clients who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I can help you manage a variety of mental health needs, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(859) 695-6320 View (859) 695-6320
Photo of Magdalen Mekoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Magdalen Mekoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Magdalen Mekoh. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Kentucky. I am passionate about helping those suffering with psychiatric/mental health and substance abuse in a non-judgemental way giving them a platform to express themselves without fear of being judged because of their struggles. My approach is holistic and getting to the root of the problem. To do that, I will first assess to identify the problem, then diagnose, prescribe medication if needed and offer psychotherapy as needed.
My name is Magdalen Mekoh. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Kentucky. I am passionate about helping those suffering with psychiatric/mental health and substance abuse in a non-judgemental way giving them a platform to express themselves without fear of being judged because of their struggles. My approach is holistic and getting to the root of the problem. To do that, I will first assess to identify the problem, then diagnose, prescribe medication if needed and offer psychotherapy as needed.
(859) 459-0798 View (859) 459-0798
Photo of Margot Feintuch, Psychiatrist, MD
Margot Feintuch
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
My private practice provides psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy and medication management. I work collaboratively with each person to tailor the most current treatment modalities to meet their individual needs.
My private practice provides psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy and medication management. I work collaboratively with each person to tailor the most current treatment modalities to meet their individual needs.
(615) 789-8083 View (615) 789-8083
Photo of Kimberly Zimmerman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NP-C, PMHNPBC
Kimberly Zimmerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NP-C, PMHNPBC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be difficult, challenging, hard to navigate for various reasons when we go through certain situations such as traumatic or life altering events. Lives are forever changed by the events but there is still hope and healing is a process that is attainable. If you are struggling mentally and emotionally and feel like all hope is gone there is always hope and resources available to help strengthen your spiritual, mental, emotional and physical self. You do not have to navigate these options alone. We can help you find life changing solutions with a compassionate, detailed, empathetic approach for you or a family member.
Life can be difficult, challenging, hard to navigate for various reasons when we go through certain situations such as traumatic or life altering events. Lives are forever changed by the events but there is still hope and healing is a process that is attainable. If you are struggling mentally and emotionally and feel like all hope is gone there is always hope and resources available to help strengthen your spiritual, mental, emotional and physical self. You do not have to navigate these options alone. We can help you find life changing solutions with a compassionate, detailed, empathetic approach for you or a family member.
(270) 212-4637 View (270) 212-4637
Photo of Andrew Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Andrew Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment to help assist patients in determining what would be the best treatment plan for them. My experience includes working with individuals in both crisis and inpatient psychiatric settings. Currently, I provide medication management services in an office setting to children, teens, and adults.
My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment to help assist patients in determining what would be the best treatment plan for them. My experience includes working with individuals in both crisis and inpatient psychiatric settings. Currently, I provide medication management services in an office setting to children, teens, and adults.
(270) 736-1511 View (270) 736-1511

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Nearby Searches for 42103

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 42103

< 10

Psychiatrists in 42103 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
50% Addiction
50% ADHD
50% Chronic Pain

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Humana
100% Medicaid
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 42103 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 42103?

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.