Psychiatrists in 46032

Photo of Zeba Madni, MD, Psychiatrist
Zeba Madni
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
(317) 483-4705 View (317) 483-4705
Photo of Steven B Wilson - Steven B Wilson, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steven B Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I am here to help you to help yourself function as best as you can and to grow into who you want to be. I have provided medication management for individuals age 4-84. I am board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and specialize in conflict resolution between children and parents.
I am here to help you to help yourself function as best as you can and to grow into who you want to be. I have provided medication management for individuals age 4-84. I am board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and specialize in conflict resolution between children and parents.
(317) 943-6113 View (317) 943-6113
Photo of Daniel B Shepler, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel B Shepler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
My name is Daniel Shepler. I am dual certified as a Primary Mental Health NP-C as well as an Adult-Gero NP-BC. I see patients ages 10 and up. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adolescents and adults.
My name is Daniel Shepler. I am dual certified as a Primary Mental Health NP-C as well as an Adult-Gero NP-BC. I see patients ages 10 and up. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adolescents and adults.
(317) 900-4146 View (317) 900-4146
Photo of Brittany Bullard, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Bullard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Hi Everyone! My name is Brittany and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at MindFit Counseling and Wellness Center. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for the past eight years. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. We are also a Spravato treatment center and have current opening for patients seeking Spravato treatment for depression. I provide care for ages 6 and up. I look forward to working with you.
Hi Everyone! My name is Brittany and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at MindFit Counseling and Wellness Center. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for the past eight years. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. We are also a Spravato treatment center and have current opening for patients seeking Spravato treatment for depression. I provide care for ages 6 and up. I look forward to working with you.
(317) 804-3696 x1019 View (317) 804-3696 x1019
Photo of Kirsten Ann Hammersley, APRN, CPNP-PC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kirsten Ann Hammersley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CPNP-PC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Double board-certified as a pediatric and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have over twenty-five years of experience overseeing the mental health needs of children, teens, and young adults in primary care pediatrics. Utilizing evidence-based practice with a focus on collaboration and education, patients will be empowered to play a key role in their mental health journey.
Double board-certified as a pediatric and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have over twenty-five years of experience overseeing the mental health needs of children, teens, and young adults in primary care pediatrics. Utilizing evidence-based practice with a focus on collaboration and education, patients will be empowered to play a key role in their mental health journey.
(317) 785-1079 View (317) 785-1079
Photo of Kristy Page, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristy Page
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Kristy Page is a board-certified FNP and PMHNP. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Purdue University and her Master of Science in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner Degree from Ball State University and her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Kristy is extremely passionate about the mental health and well-being of her patients. Kristy is licensed in both Indiana and Florida. Kristy is accepting new patients in both states and does in-person or virtual visits.
Kristy Page is a board-certified FNP and PMHNP. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Purdue University and her Master of Science in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner Degree from Ball State University and her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Kristy is extremely passionate about the mental health and well-being of her patients. Kristy is licensed in both Indiana and Florida. Kristy is accepting new patients in both states and does in-person or virtual visits.
(317) 648-0979 View (317) 648-0979
Photo of Tyler Clay Flaningham, MD, Psychiatrist
Tyler Clay Flaningham
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
(317) 406-4698 View (317) 406-4698
Photo of Brigid Kirlin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brigid Kirlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
If you or a loved one are suffering from OCD or an anxiety disorder, you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses, yet most sufferers do not have access to effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety, there is help. There are medication management options that have been shown to be effective and can be paired with evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques such CBT to maximize treatment effects.
If you or a loved one are suffering from OCD or an anxiety disorder, you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses, yet most sufferers do not have access to effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety, there is help. There are medication management options that have been shown to be effective and can be paired with evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques such CBT to maximize treatment effects.
(317) 661-4363 View (317) 661-4363
Photo of Renee McDougal, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renee McDougal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Hi there! I'm passionate about offering a personalized and holistic approach to support your mental well-being. At Ivy Health, we believe in nurturing the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Life can be tough, and there are often battles that go unseen. Our mission is to be there for you, providing guidance and treatment to help you find a more centered and balanced self. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or any other challenges, I'm here to work with you.
Hi there! I'm passionate about offering a personalized and holistic approach to support your mental well-being. At Ivy Health, we believe in nurturing the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Life can be tough, and there are often battles that go unseen. Our mission is to be there for you, providing guidance and treatment to help you find a more centered and balanced self. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or any other challenges, I'm here to work with you.
(463) 241-6602 View (463) 241-6602
Photo of Beth McQuinn - Northside Psychotherapeutics , PMHCNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Northside Psychotherapeutics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Northside Psychotherapeutics is a locally owned and operated mental health clinic. We provide virtual psychotherapy, psychiatric medication management, and psychiatric consultation and educational services. We treat individuals across the lifespan; and we have high standards of care and years of experience. Please call 317-775-4906.
Northside Psychotherapeutics is a locally owned and operated mental health clinic. We provide virtual psychotherapy, psychiatric medication management, and psychiatric consultation and educational services. We treat individuals across the lifespan; and we have high standards of care and years of experience. Please call 317-775-4906.
(463) 222-0814 View (463) 222-0814
Photo of Katie Kleckner, MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Katie Kleckner
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Since 2010, I have practiced medicine as a psychiatric Physician Assistant in IL, CA, and IN, working in outpatient, partial hospitalization, residential, and inpatient settings. Ultimately, my goal is to help end the unfortunate stigma and lack of resources that plague those with mental illness. And mental illness does not discriminate - it can afflict anyone at virtually any point during the lifespan and in any socioeconomic population. But, it is debilitating. It is often hard to identify or understand the symptoms and consequences of mental illness if it’s happening to you…let alone explain it to others. Let me help you!
Since 2010, I have practiced medicine as a psychiatric Physician Assistant in IL, CA, and IN, working in outpatient, partial hospitalization, residential, and inpatient settings. Ultimately, my goal is to help end the unfortunate stigma and lack of resources that plague those with mental illness. And mental illness does not discriminate - it can afflict anyone at virtually any point during the lifespan and in any socioeconomic population. But, it is debilitating. It is often hard to identify or understand the symptoms and consequences of mental illness if it’s happening to you…let alone explain it to others. Let me help you!
(463) 270-7691 View (463) 270-7691
Photo of Jayanthi K Peters, MD, Psychiatrist
Jayanthi K Peters
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Waitlist for new clients
I am a double board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my general psychiatry residency at Yale University in 1996 and my child psychiatry fellowship at UCLA in 1998. I have practiced in various clinical settings in Canada and the U.S., including outpatient, inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and emergency room. My diverse clinical experience includes practice in academic centers, community mental health agencies, and private practice.
I am a double board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my general psychiatry residency at Yale University in 1996 and my child psychiatry fellowship at UCLA in 1998. I have practiced in various clinical settings in Canada and the U.S., including outpatient, inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and emergency room. My diverse clinical experience includes practice in academic centers, community mental health agencies, and private practice.
(317) 900-4342 View (317) 900-4342
Photo of Megan Gibson, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Gibson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Megan Gibson, PMHNP, practices at LifeStance Health and is dedicated to promoting mental wellness for patients in Indiana. With a therapeutic approach rooted in acceptance, patience, and understanding, Megan creates a nonjudgmental environment that fosters healing and personal growth. She serves a diverse range of age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, offering comprehensive care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Megan Gibson, PMHNP, practices at LifeStance Health and is dedicated to promoting mental wellness for patients in Indiana. With a therapeutic approach rooted in acceptance, patience, and understanding, Megan creates a nonjudgmental environment that fosters healing and personal growth. She serves a diverse range of age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, offering comprehensive care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(877) 916-2367 View (877) 916-2367
Photo of Kimberly Harter, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kimberly Harter
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Kimberly is a certified physician assistant (PA) began her career practicing in urgent care in 2017 and eventually transitioned into psychiatry. She is passionate about mental health and the importance it plays in overall health and well being. Kimberly recognizes the importance of providing empathetic, quality, and compassionate care that is evidence based, yet individualized and tailored to the patient. Kimberly is committed to helping you feel your best and helping you cultivate personal growth in all areas of your life.
Kimberly is a certified physician assistant (PA) began her career practicing in urgent care in 2017 and eventually transitioned into psychiatry. She is passionate about mental health and the importance it plays in overall health and well being. Kimberly recognizes the importance of providing empathetic, quality, and compassionate care that is evidence based, yet individualized and tailored to the patient. Kimberly is committed to helping you feel your best and helping you cultivate personal growth in all areas of your life.
(317) 961-3131 View (317) 961-3131
Photo of Cameron Chappell - Circle City Psychiatry , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Circle City Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
We believe that our mental health is the most important thing we have in this world, and want to help as many people as we can. Our goal is to improve access to mental health treatment.
We believe that our mental health is the most important thing we have in this world, and want to help as many people as we can. Our goal is to improve access to mental health treatment.
(317) 793-3302 View (317) 793-3302
Photo of Sarah Miller, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Sarah Miller is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelors in Psychology from Indiana University, a Bachelors of Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Masters in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. Sarah helps clients by providing holistic/well rounded care that focuses on minimizing the need for medications and improving overall satisfaction with life. She provides a comfortable environment that allows for open communication and active listening.
Sarah Miller is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelors in Psychology from Indiana University, a Bachelors of Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Masters in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. Sarah helps clients by providing holistic/well rounded care that focuses on minimizing the need for medications and improving overall satisfaction with life. She provides a comfortable environment that allows for open communication and active listening.
(463) 238-3883 View (463) 238-3883
Photo of Jeremiah Ellingsworth - Indy ADHD, DO, Psychiatrist
Indy ADHD
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Are you a high-functioning adult with ADHD? If so, you know how untreated ADHD can significantly impact your life. You may struggle with focus, procrastination, time management, and organization. You may also feel overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed. At Indy ADHD, we understand. Dr. Ellingsworth offers an accessible, understanding, and specialized care model for adults with ADHD. We use cutting-edge technologies and research to provide tailored treatment plans that take into account your unique needs. Dr. Ellingsworth offers Telehealth appointments and transparent pricing, so you can get the care you need without breaking the bank.
Are you a high-functioning adult with ADHD? If so, you know how untreated ADHD can significantly impact your life. You may struggle with focus, procrastination, time management, and organization. You may also feel overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed. At Indy ADHD, we understand. Dr. Ellingsworth offers an accessible, understanding, and specialized care model for adults with ADHD. We use cutting-edge technologies and research to provide tailored treatment plans that take into account your unique needs. Dr. Ellingsworth offers Telehealth appointments and transparent pricing, so you can get the care you need without breaking the bank.
(317) 659-6251 View (317) 659-6251
Photo of Greta Logan Krause - Dr. Greta L. Krause, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Greta L. Krause
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
(317) 316-3026 View (317) 316-3026
Photo of Jennifer Sloan, MD, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Sloan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Dr. Sloan sees men and women ages 18-65 for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. She employs evidence-based pharmacology, psychotherapy, walk and talk, and other modalities as needed for each unique situation. She has particular interest in treating depression and anxiety, and strives to help each person achieve better overall health, function, and well-being in their lives.
Dr. Sloan sees men and women ages 18-65 for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. She employs evidence-based pharmacology, psychotherapy, walk and talk, and other modalities as needed for each unique situation. She has particular interest in treating depression and anxiety, and strives to help each person achieve better overall health, function, and well-being in their lives.
(317) 854-0188 View (317) 854-0188
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(317) 900-4246 View (317) 900-4246
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 46032

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 46032 who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
89% Anxiety
77% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth
77% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 46032 see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
22% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 46032?

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.