Psychiatrists in 42301

Photo of Autumn Shutt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Autumn Shutt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Serves Area
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older at Bloom Counseling + Wellness Studio. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older at Bloom Counseling + Wellness Studio. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
(502) 236-5432 View (502) 236-5432
Photo of Terry M Hagan - Hagan Health, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Hagan Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Generally speaking, and before we talk about you, just let me say that I am here to help. It can be intimidating to think about meeting a psychiatrist for the first time, and I understand that. In fact, I know that some people might find me intimidating, particularly after reading my bio, but I really want to be seen as that kind and gracious doctor who wants to help you. My style as a psychiatrist is to inform you and discuss options while respecting your right to make the decisions that are best for you. Nothing is decided about treatment without your full agreement. Sometimes I will tell a patient that “you are the captain
Generally speaking, and before we talk about you, just let me say that I am here to help. It can be intimidating to think about meeting a psychiatrist for the first time, and I understand that. In fact, I know that some people might find me intimidating, particularly after reading my bio, but I really want to be seen as that kind and gracious doctor who wants to help you. My style as a psychiatrist is to inform you and discuss options while respecting your right to make the decisions that are best for you. Nothing is decided about treatment without your full agreement. Sometimes I will tell a patient that “you are the captain
(502) 547-8486 View (502) 547-8486
Photo of Katie Berghausen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MHA
Katie Berghausen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MHA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now Taking New Patients - Telehealth and In-person - Appointments I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with training and experience assessing and treating adults and children focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD and addiction recovery. As part of a multidisciplinary team, I work in collaboration with other treatment providers to ensure proper medication management for all patients.
Now Taking New Patients - Telehealth and In-person - Appointments I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with training and experience assessing and treating adults and children focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD and addiction recovery. As part of a multidisciplinary team, I work in collaboration with other treatment providers to ensure proper medication management for all patients.
(502) 306-3501 View (502) 306-3501
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 Dr. Reisha Lynn Caudill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Dr. Reisha Lynn Caudill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Online Only
My specialties include depressive disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. I treat clients ages 5 and up with a wide range of psychiatric and mental health issues. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and offer Behavioral/Mental Health services and medication management through Telehealth across all of Kentucky.
My specialties include depressive disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. I treat clients ages 5 and up with a wide range of psychiatric and mental health issues. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and offer Behavioral/Mental Health services and medication management through Telehealth across all of Kentucky.
(502) 409-6993 View (502) 409-6993
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Neil Jariwala - Virtual Consult MD Kentucky, Psychiatrist, MD
Virtual Consult MD Kentucky
Psychiatrist, MD
Owensboro, KY 42303
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, mood symptoms, or trauma who feels overwhelmed, misunderstood, or uncertain about their treatment options, especially when physical and mental health challenges overlap. They are looking for a psychiatrist who listens closely, explains clearly, and partners with them to find a plan that feels safe, effective, and personalized. They want clarity about their symptoms, confidence in their medications, and practical tools that help them feel more grounded, stable, and present in their daily lives.
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, mood symptoms, or trauma who feels overwhelmed, misunderstood, or uncertain about their treatment options, especially when physical and mental health challenges overlap. They are looking for a psychiatrist who listens closely, explains clearly, and partners with them to find a plan that feels safe, effective, and personalized. They want clarity about their symptoms, confidence in their medications, and practical tools that help them feel more grounded, stable, and present in their daily lives.
(270) 449-0568 View (270) 449-0568
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Owensboro, KY 42303
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Laura Pohl - Laura Pohl @ Women's Mental Health Specialists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Laura Pohl @ Women's Mental Health Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Online Only
I understand the immense weight that life places on women—balancing work, home, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m dedicated to supporting women on their wellness journey with a compassionate and holistic approach. With specialized expertise in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD, I provide expert care tailored to your unique needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, I’ve walked alongside women through every stage of life—from pregnancy and early motherhood to menopause. I know how challenging these transitions can be, and I’m here to help you navigate them with clarity and confidence.
I understand the immense weight that life places on women—balancing work, home, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’m dedicated to supporting women on their wellness journey with a compassionate and holistic approach. With specialized expertise in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD, I provide expert care tailored to your unique needs. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, I’ve walked alongside women through every stage of life—from pregnancy and early motherhood to menopause. I know how challenging these transitions can be, and I’m here to help you navigate them with clarity and confidence.
(606) 708-7625 View (606) 708-7625

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Cynthia Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Cynthia Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Munfordville, KY 42765
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, Mood disorders, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and many others.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, Mood disorders, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and many others.
(270) 494-3569 View (270) 494-3569
Photo of Dr. Gayatri Singh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DBH
Dr. Gayatri Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DBH
Louisville, KY 40241
I believe that healing begins with connection, understanding & a safe therapeutic space where individuals feel truly seen & supported. My approach to care is collaborative, evidence-based, and grounded in empathy. I view each person as a whole, not just a diagnosis & tailor every treatment plan to meet their unique emotional, psychological, & life circumstances. I provide both in-person and telehealth outpatient behavioral health services designed to make quality mental health care accessible & personalized. My goal is to meet you where you are & help you move toward balance, clarity & improved well-being at your own pace.
I believe that healing begins with connection, understanding & a safe therapeutic space where individuals feel truly seen & supported. My approach to care is collaborative, evidence-based, and grounded in empathy. I view each person as a whole, not just a diagnosis & tailor every treatment plan to meet their unique emotional, psychological, & life circumstances. I provide both in-person and telehealth outpatient behavioral health services designed to make quality mental health care accessible & personalized. My goal is to meet you where you are & help you move toward balance, clarity & improved well-being at your own pace.
(502) 317-1566 View (502) 317-1566
Photo of Dr. Scot McKay, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Scot McKay
Psychiatrist, MD
Louisville, KY 40202
Dr. Scot McKay is board certified in Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. He graduated medical school from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. He completed his residency and child/adolescent fellowship trainings at the University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Center in Denver, CO. Previously, he has worked on the inpatient and partial hospitalization child/adolescent psychiatric units at Children's Hospital Colorado as well as in the school-based health clinics through Denver Health in partnership with Denver Public Schools.
Dr. Scot McKay is board certified in Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. He graduated medical school from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. He completed his residency and child/adolescent fellowship trainings at the University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Center in Denver, CO. Previously, he has worked on the inpatient and partial hospitalization child/adolescent psychiatric units at Children's Hospital Colorado as well as in the school-based health clinics through Denver Health in partnership with Denver Public Schools.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Mechibelle Lynch - Ohio Valley Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Ohio Valley Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Louisville, KY 40207
Ohio Valley Psychiatry provides excellent, quality care. Medications in conjunction with other treatment modalities promote self-management strategies and foster development of resilience. We want patients to develop the ability to manage symptoms amidst daily stressors and major life changes. Emphasis is placed on personal growth and sustaining meaningful, interpersonal relationships.
Ohio Valley Psychiatry provides excellent, quality care. Medications in conjunction with other treatment modalities promote self-management strategies and foster development of resilience. We want patients to develop the ability to manage symptoms amidst daily stressors and major life changes. Emphasis is placed on personal growth and sustaining meaningful, interpersonal relationships.
(502) 586-2592 View (502) 586-2592
Photo of Jacqueline Rice - Empowering Minds Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Empowering Minds Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here. If you’re reading this, chances are you or someone you care about is navigating something heavy — anxiety, depression, mood instability, substance use disorder, stress, or simply the weight of life. I want you to know that you’re not alone, and help is possible.
Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here. If you’re reading this, chances are you or someone you care about is navigating something heavy — anxiety, depression, mood instability, substance use disorder, stress, or simply the weight of life. I want you to know that you’re not alone, and help is possible.
(502) 289-6126 View (502) 289-6126
Photo of Mandy Bliss - Bliss Progressive Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Bliss Progressive Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
I'm not a '15 Minute Med Check' kind of provider. You deserve better care than that allows. I specialize in treatment of individuals with a history of trauma, complex PTS, and/or bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety that have not responded to traditional treatments. When a client says, “I’ve tried every medicine out there – none of them work,” my response is, “Let’s dig deeper. Is medicine the right treatment for you?” I practice from a trauma-informed perspective. I'm endlessly curious and a creative thinker - both of these traits shape how I prescribe medications and which non-medication treatments recommendations I make.
I'm not a '15 Minute Med Check' kind of provider. You deserve better care than that allows. I specialize in treatment of individuals with a history of trauma, complex PTS, and/or bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety that have not responded to traditional treatments. When a client says, “I’ve tried every medicine out there – none of them work,” my response is, “Let’s dig deeper. Is medicine the right treatment for you?” I practice from a trauma-informed perspective. I'm endlessly curious and a creative thinker - both of these traits shape how I prescribe medications and which non-medication treatments recommendations I make.
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Photo of Kennetha Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP MS, APRN, PMHNP
Kennetha Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP MS, APRN, PMHNP
Louisville, KY 40223
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychology and psychiatry. I specialize in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults navigating a wide range of mental health challenges.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychology and psychiatry. I specialize in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults navigating a wide range of mental health challenges.
(502) 503-4139 View (502) 503-4139
Photo of Olivia Pierce, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Olivia Pierce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Louisville, KY 40223
Olivia has specialized experience in treating anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, and depression/mood disorders. She works with diverse populations, including individuals in adoption or foster care, those on the autism spectrum, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Her approach integrates clinical expertise with a commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space, empowering patients to work toward meaningful, lasting change.
Olivia has specialized experience in treating anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, and depression/mood disorders. She works with diverse populations, including individuals in adoption or foster care, those on the autism spectrum, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Her approach integrates clinical expertise with a commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space, empowering patients to work toward meaningful, lasting change.
(502) 892-0458 View (502) 892-0458
Photo of Joellen Marion, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LPCC-S
Joellen Marion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LPCC-S
Bowling Green, KY 42104
I have worked in a variety of settings with a variety of age ranges. I have experience working in mental health and substance use through the lifespan. I am trained in Reproductive Psychiatry to help support women through their perinatal, postpartum and perimenopause journey. I am an LPCC-S as well as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and am able to provide supervision to LPCA's in need.
I have worked in a variety of settings with a variety of age ranges. I have experience working in mental health and substance use through the lifespan. I am trained in Reproductive Psychiatry to help support women through their perinatal, postpartum and perimenopause journey. I am an LPCC-S as well as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and am able to provide supervision to LPCA's in need.
(270) 214-2430 View (270) 214-2430
Photo of Elizabeth Smoot, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Elizabeth Smoot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Louisville, KY 40207
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
(502) 706-3997 View (502) 706-3997
Photo of Jessica Swearer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Jessica Swearer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Louisville, KY 40223
Immediate availability! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. Specialties and Areas of Expertise: Anxiety, ADHD, Perimenopause, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression.
Immediate availability! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. Specialties and Areas of Expertise: Anxiety, ADHD, Perimenopause, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression.
(502) 788-3283 View (502) 788-3283

See more therapy options for 42301

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 42301

< 10

Psychiatrists in 42301 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Medication Management
83% Grief
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 42301 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 42301?

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.