Psychiatrists in 42701

Photo of Trevor McGuffin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Trevor McGuffin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
I am committed to creating a non-judgmental space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and focused on empowering you to make informed decisions about your mental health. I offer medication management for ages 7+. Life's difficulties can feel isolating. Together, we'll navigate the path forward and develop strategies to improve your mental wellbeing.
I am committed to creating a non-judgmental space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and focused on empowering you to make informed decisions about your mental health. I offer medication management for ages 7+. Life's difficulties can feel isolating. Together, we'll navigate the path forward and develop strategies to improve your mental wellbeing.
(270) 771-6540 View (270) 771-6540
Photo of Andrew Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Andrew Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
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
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
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.
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Photo of Cynthia Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Cynthia Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Serves Area
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, Mood disorders, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance use disorders.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, Mood disorders, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance use disorders.
(270) 494-3569 View (270) 494-3569
Photo of Joshua Moore - Louisville Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Louisville Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Moore is an ABPN certified psychiatrist practicing in Louisville, Kentucky, and is a native of Richmond, Kentucky. He has extensive experience in mood disorders (bipolar and depressive disorders), psychosis (including schizophrenia), and anxiety disorders. He believes in the importance of a collaborative approach to treatment planning and respect for patient autonomy. Dr. Moore always strives to understand and assist patients with the utmost courtesy.
Dr. Moore is an ABPN certified psychiatrist practicing in Louisville, Kentucky, and is a native of Richmond, Kentucky. He has extensive experience in mood disorders (bipolar and depressive disorders), psychosis (including schizophrenia), and anxiety disorders. He believes in the importance of a collaborative approach to treatment planning and respect for patient autonomy. Dr. Moore always strives to understand and assist patients with the utmost courtesy.
(502) 406-8296 View (502) 406-8296
Photo of Jessica Sibbie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
Jessica Sibbie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
(502) 586-3573 View (502) 586-3573
Photo of Julie Percefull - Pathe Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Pathe Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Julie Percefull, DNP, is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a dedicated focus on mental health care. She works collaboratively with each patient to develop individualized treatment plans, meeting them wherever they are in their mental health journey. Dr. Percefull is committed to creating a nurturing, supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Her approach emphasizes compassion, personalization, and evidence-based care to help individuals move toward improved mental well-being.
Julie Percefull, DNP, is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a dedicated focus on mental health care. She works collaboratively with each patient to develop individualized treatment plans, meeting them wherever they are in their mental health journey. Dr. Percefull is committed to creating a nurturing, supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Her approach emphasizes compassion, personalization, and evidence-based care to help individuals move toward improved mental well-being.
(270) 679-3531 View (270) 679-3531
Photo of Katie Staggs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katie Staggs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a double board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner PMHNP- BC and Certified Addictions nurse practitioner CARN-AP with a with a focused specialization in the treatment of individuals experiencing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders (dual diagnosis). My practice is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to the complex and often overlapping needs of this population. I am deeply committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and making care more accessible to those who need it. I am really looking forward to working with you and supporting your mental health journey.
I am a double board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner PMHNP- BC and Certified Addictions nurse practitioner CARN-AP with a with a focused specialization in the treatment of individuals experiencing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders (dual diagnosis). My practice is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to the complex and often overlapping needs of this population. I am deeply committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and making care more accessible to those who need it. I am really looking forward to working with you and supporting your mental health journey.
(502) 273-5996 View (502) 273-5996
Photo of Tonya Stephens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Tonya Stephens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
I am bringing my 20+ year nursing career to my psychiatric mental health practice. I have worked with patients who have various mental health diagnoses. My goal is to help you improve your mental health with medication management, however, I will always refer you to a therapist because I believe that medication alone is not enough. I earned my MSN in 2013 when I began teaching nursing students at a local university. In 2024 I began practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in gender affirming care, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety and depression. In my free time I enjoy traveling.
I am bringing my 20+ year nursing career to my psychiatric mental health practice. I have worked with patients who have various mental health diagnoses. My goal is to help you improve your mental health with medication management, however, I will always refer you to a therapist because I believe that medication alone is not enough. I earned my MSN in 2013 when I began teaching nursing students at a local university. In 2024 I began practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in gender affirming care, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety and depression. In my free time I enjoy traveling.
(859) 423-1257 View (859) 423-1257
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.
(859) 328-2473 View (859) 328-2473
Photo of Stephanie Sweeny - Stephanie Sweeny, Women's Mental Health Specialist, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Stephanie Sweeny, Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Online Only
I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.
I built Women’s Mental Health Specialists because I know what it feels like to be unheard, misdiagnosed, or stuck in a treatment that just isn’t working. Women’s mental health is complex, and too often, it’s treated with guesswork. I refuse to let that happen here. My mission is to get the diagnosis right, build a team that actually supports you, and create a plan that gets real results. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, or the impact of hormonal shifts, I’m here to help you understand what’s happening, regain control, and move forward with confidence.
(606) 603-3642 View (606) 603-3642

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Cody B. Pittman - Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Bardstown, KY 40004
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
(502) 890-9232 View (502) 890-9232
Photo of Talesha Leachman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Talesha Leachman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
22 Endorsed
Serves Area
SAME-DAY and NEXT-DAY appointments are available! I'm currently accepting clients all over Kentuckiana! Hello. I'm TaLesha, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and co-owner of Better You Behavioral Health Services. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care to individuals navigating mental well-being complexities. With a deep understanding of mind-body interconnectedness, I create a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered on their healing journey. My approach is evidence-based and respects each individual's unique experience.
SAME-DAY and NEXT-DAY appointments are available! I'm currently accepting clients all over Kentuckiana! Hello. I'm TaLesha, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and co-owner of Better You Behavioral Health Services. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care to individuals navigating mental well-being complexities. With a deep understanding of mind-body interconnectedness, I create a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered on their healing journey. My approach is evidence-based and respects each individual's unique experience.
(502) 503-5215 View (502) 503-5215
Photo of Robert H Stewart - Robert H Stewart (MD), Psychiatrist, MD
Robert H Stewart (MD)
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Our calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of depression, the tension of anxiety, the stress of attention deficit/hyperactivity, the strain of bipolar depression, and the pain of trauma. Our practice motto is: “To heal sometimes, to relieve often, to console always.”
Our calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of depression, the tension of anxiety, the stress of attention deficit/hyperactivity, the strain of bipolar depression, and the pain of trauma. Our practice motto is: “To heal sometimes, to relieve often, to console always.”
(833) 780-1041 View (833) 780-1041
Photo of Katie Norris - Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Serves Area
Accepting new patients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 16 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical cannabis prescriber as well. I am self-pay. I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize. I also have the ability to prescribe cannabis!
Accepting new patients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 16 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical cannabis prescriber as well. I am self-pay. I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize. I also have the ability to prescribe cannabis!
(502) 628-4079 View (502) 628-4079
Photo of Ashley Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Magnolia, KY 42757
I am a mental health provider who believes care should feel safe and be tailored to the whole person. I specialize in helping individuals navigate their mental health concerns with evidence-based, compassionate care. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered to move forward at your pace.
I am a mental health provider who believes care should feel safe and be tailored to the whole person. I specialize in helping individuals navigate their mental health concerns with evidence-based, compassionate care. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered to move forward at your pace.
(270) 713-1289 View (270) 713-1289
Yvonne Owen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Louisville, KY 40258
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
(270) 290-0874 View (270) 290-0874
Photo of Olga Marie Rodgers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Olga Marie Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe healing begins with trust. I provide a safe, respectful and non-judgmental space where you are truly heard.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe healing begins with trust. I provide a safe, respectful and non-judgmental space where you are truly heard.
(502) 490-2247 View (502) 490-2247
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.
(513) 496-3666 View (513) 496-3666
Photo of Michael German, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michael German
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience across diverse settings, including outpatient care, residential treatment, and substance use recovery. While I serve clients of all ages, I specialize in children and adolescents, bringing a deep understanding of youth mental health from my years in residential care. I am passionate about partnering with and supporting those navigating mental health challenges. My approach to medication is conservative; I believe in prescribing only what is truly necessary to support your goals.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience across diverse settings, including outpatient care, residential treatment, and substance use recovery. While I serve clients of all ages, I specialize in children and adolescents, bringing a deep understanding of youth mental health from my years in residential care. I am passionate about partnering with and supporting those navigating mental health challenges. My approach to medication is conservative; I believe in prescribing only what is truly necessary to support your goals.
(270) 713-6211 View (270) 713-6211

See more therapy options for 42701

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 42701

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Psychiatrists in 42701 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
82% Depression
82% Medication Management
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Bipolar Disorder
73% Sleep or Insomnia
64% ADHD

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 42701 see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

64% Female
27% Male
9% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 42701?

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.