Psychiatrists in 46060

Photo of Lindsey Morgan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsey Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
Hello! My name is Lindsey, and I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I am so glad you are here and about to take the first step by asking for help. People often come into our lives for a reason, so I aim to make every interaction meaningful. Helping others reach their true potential through growth and recovery is something I'm passionate about. This starts with listening to understand who you are, what you've been through, and your goals for treatment. Together, we will develop a personalized plan to help guide you toward healing and overall wellness.
Hello! My name is Lindsey, and I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I am so glad you are here and about to take the first step by asking for help. People often come into our lives for a reason, so I aim to make every interaction meaningful. Helping others reach their true potential through growth and recovery is something I'm passionate about. This starts with listening to understand who you are, what you've been through, and your goals for treatment. Together, we will develop a personalized plan to help guide you toward healing and overall wellness.
(463) 466-5391 View (463) 466-5391
Photo of Carl T Ratliff Jr, Psychiatrist, DO
Carl T Ratliff Jr
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
As a double-board-certified psychiatrist with over fifteen years in the industry, I understand the difficulties families face in accessing quality mental health care. Although qualified to see people of all ages, I am passionate about caring for individuals under 18. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorders, as well as substance use disorders. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, decrease stress, improve individual functioning, and improve family dynamics.
As a double-board-certified psychiatrist with over fifteen years in the industry, I understand the difficulties families face in accessing quality mental health care. Although qualified to see people of all ages, I am passionate about caring for individuals under 18. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorders, as well as substance use disorders. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, decrease stress, improve individual functioning, and improve family dynamics.
(463) 250-5838 View (463) 250-5838
Photo of Heather M Hare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC, PMH-C
Heather M Hare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have a passion working for working with women during the childbearing years. In particular, I specialize in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. From pre-conception counseling, pregnancy, and through the postpartum, I am passionate to help women feel better. Please know that there are many compatible options and I would be happy to discuss these and answer all of your questions to help decide if medicine is a good option for your particular circumstance. Additionally, I emphasize a holistic approach that focuses on movement, nutrition, therapy, etc, as mental wellness is more than just taking a pill!
I have a passion working for working with women during the childbearing years. In particular, I specialize in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. From pre-conception counseling, pregnancy, and through the postpartum, I am passionate to help women feel better. Please know that there are many compatible options and I would be happy to discuss these and answer all of your questions to help decide if medicine is a good option for your particular circumstance. Additionally, I emphasize a holistic approach that focuses on movement, nutrition, therapy, etc, as mental wellness is more than just taking a pill!
(317) 342-0694 View (317) 342-0694
Photo of Aimee Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Aimee Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46060
Most likely, some form and degree of pain has brought you to this page...to even put words to "what it is" may be difficult. Maybe you are curious to explore more about yourself. Humans are multifaceted, and everyone struggles with something...some more than others. In the therapy time we make space to explore all the parts of you - known and unknown, parts that you like, and the parts that may be difficult to accept. I believe the more we fully know all the pieces of ourselves, the more resilience and connection we have within our relationships, our work, our emotional world and our identities.
Most likely, some form and degree of pain has brought you to this page...to even put words to "what it is" may be difficult. Maybe you are curious to explore more about yourself. Humans are multifaceted, and everyone struggles with something...some more than others. In the therapy time we make space to explore all the parts of you - known and unknown, parts that you like, and the parts that may be difficult to accept. I believe the more we fully know all the pieces of ourselves, the more resilience and connection we have within our relationships, our work, our emotional world and our identities.
(463) 271-4472 View (463) 271-4472
Amy Abuasabeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience as a psychiatric nurse, working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am passionate about helping patients achieve their goals of mental and emotional wellness. I stay informed about the latest scientific advances in psychiatry to empower my patients and help them lead fulfilling lives.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience as a psychiatric nurse, working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am passionate about helping patients achieve their goals of mental and emotional wellness. I stay informed about the latest scientific advances in psychiatry to empower my patients and help them lead fulfilling lives.
(317) 720-3949 View (317) 720-3949
Photo of Elizabeth Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Elizabeth Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
Ms. Elizabeth Moore, PMHNPBC, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey with compassionate, evidencebased care. Serving patients across Indiana, she brings more than 38 years of experience in psychiatry and addiction treatment, including 24 years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Elizabeth works closely with adolescents, adults, and seniors, empowering them to take an active role in their mental wellness. She offers individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management, tailoring each treatment plan to support her patients unique needs and goals.
Ms. Elizabeth Moore, PMHNPBC, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journey with compassionate, evidencebased care. Serving patients across Indiana, she brings more than 38 years of experience in psychiatry and addiction treatment, including 24 years as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Elizabeth works closely with adolescents, adults, and seniors, empowering them to take an active role in their mental wellness. She offers individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management, tailoring each treatment plan to support her patients unique needs and goals.
(317) 953-2875 View (317) 953-2875
Photo of Dr. Michele Babin - LifeStance Health - Fishers, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health - Fishers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(463) 283-7051 View (463) 283-7051
Photo of Dorothy Bodur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dorothy Bodur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
Dorothy Bodur is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor s and master s degree in nursing from University of Southern Indiana. Dorothy has experience treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, community, and home-based visits. She has extensive experience in pairing behavioral training with medication management. She specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults with neurodiverse conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.
Dorothy Bodur is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor s and master s degree in nursing from University of Southern Indiana. Dorothy has experience treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, community, and home-based visits. She has extensive experience in pairing behavioral training with medication management. She specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults with neurodiverse conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.
(463) 583-8018 View (463) 583-8018
Photo of Rhonda Palmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Rhonda Palmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
Rhonda Palmer is a board certified child and adolescent mental health provider who began her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse serving both the geriatric population and children with terminal illnesses. She received her Bachelors and then Masters degree in Nursing from Indiana University in 2010. She was awarded her Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree DNP from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017.
Rhonda Palmer is a board certified child and adolescent mental health provider who began her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse serving both the geriatric population and children with terminal illnesses. She received her Bachelors and then Masters degree in Nursing from Indiana University in 2010. She was awarded her Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree DNP from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017.
(463) 217-0884 View (463) 217-0884
Photo of Leticia Vance, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Leticia Vance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
Leticia L. Vance, PMHNP. Leticia L. Vance is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Master of Science in Nursing Indiana from Wesleyan University: Primary Care Nursing, a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Post-Master s Certificate from Eastern Kentucky University.
Leticia L. Vance, PMHNP. Leticia L. Vance is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Master of Science in Nursing Indiana from Wesleyan University: Primary Care Nursing, a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Post-Master s Certificate from Eastern Kentucky University.
(317) 647-4657 View (317) 647-4657
Photo of Diane Hirtzel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Diane Hirtzel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 18 years of experience. I work with clients of all ages and specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex mental health challenges including bipolar disorder, ADHD, parenting, and PTSD. My compassionate, client-centered approach fosters a safe and collaborative therapeutic space where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered.
I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 18 years of experience. I work with clients of all ages and specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex mental health challenges including bipolar disorder, ADHD, parenting, and PTSD. My compassionate, client-centered approach fosters a safe and collaborative therapeutic space where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered.
(463) 300-6432 View (463) 300-6432
Photo of Christine Erotas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Christine Erotas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
During this time of great unknowns, it is normal to experience increased stress, loneliness, and fears. I create a judgment free, safe, environment that allows you to be seen and heard, My commitment is to understand you and to meet you where you are in your journey. As we work together in collaboration, navigating your own experiences, new tools and resources will be discovered. Adaptability and resiliency skills are vital in the ability to thrive at your highest level of functioning.
During this time of great unknowns, it is normal to experience increased stress, loneliness, and fears. I create a judgment free, safe, environment that allows you to be seen and heard, My commitment is to understand you and to meet you where you are in your journey. As we work together in collaboration, navigating your own experiences, new tools and resources will be discovered. Adaptability and resiliency skills are vital in the ability to thrive at your highest level of functioning.
(317) 699-8337 View (317) 699-8337
Photo of Auggy Hone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Auggy Hone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Auggy, and I am a PMHNP specializing in mood, anxiolytic, and addiction disorders. A special focus and interest in PTSD and OCD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients. This means we work together to solidify a treatment plan, including the use of medications if necessary. While I may have expertise in this area, I believe that you are the expert when it comes to your health. Therefore, your input during our sessions is of most importance. My goals at the end of the day are to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with your medication regimen while experiencing minimal to no side-effects.
Hello! My name is Auggy, and I am a PMHNP specializing in mood, anxiolytic, and addiction disorders. A special focus and interest in PTSD and OCD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients. This means we work together to solidify a treatment plan, including the use of medications if necessary. While I may have expertise in this area, I believe that you are the expert when it comes to your health. Therefore, your input during our sessions is of most importance. My goals at the end of the day are to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with your medication regimen while experiencing minimal to no side-effects.
(317) 961-7856 View (317) 961-7856
Rebecca J. Moredock Mueller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and current Professor of Forensic Psychiatry. I work with children (5 and older), adolescents and adults and my particular areas of focus are mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Spectrum, and Seasonal Affective Disorder), Anxiety Spectrum, Eating Disorders, Special Needs Children, ADD/ADHD. I also offer specialty evaluations pertaining to child adoption, aviation, and forensics. My practice is located right off of State Road 9 and I-70 in Greenfield,IN. Please feel free to contact us if you are in need, I try to reserve appointment spots for new patients so I can typically get people in quickly.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and current Professor of Forensic Psychiatry. I work with children (5 and older), adolescents and adults and my particular areas of focus are mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Spectrum, and Seasonal Affective Disorder), Anxiety Spectrum, Eating Disorders, Special Needs Children, ADD/ADHD. I also offer specialty evaluations pertaining to child adoption, aviation, and forensics. My practice is located right off of State Road 9 and I-70 in Greenfield,IN. Please feel free to contact us if you are in need, I try to reserve appointment spots for new patients so I can typically get people in quickly.
(317) 961-8548 View (317) 961-8548
Photo of Ronda Owens-Dehmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ronda Owens-Dehmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.
(317) 561-5178 View (317) 561-5178
Photo of Kimberly Sue Huff - Mind Mechanics -Kimberly S. Huff , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Mind Mechanics -Kimberly S. Huff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Want a mental health assessment/testing/medication all in one provider? I test for and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and all other mental health needs. Mind Mechanics are highly specialized psychiatric providers. We spend quality time with clients, asking questions other providers do not. I want to know about diet, sleep, work/life balance, spirituality, fears and ways you cope with daily stressors. I will provide a detailed assessment, accurate diagnosis & evidenced-based treatment plan & medication. Let me help you find the BEST version of you!
Want a mental health assessment/testing/medication all in one provider? I test for and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and all other mental health needs. Mind Mechanics are highly specialized psychiatric providers. We spend quality time with clients, asking questions other providers do not. I want to know about diet, sleep, work/life balance, spirituality, fears and ways you cope with daily stressors. I will provide a detailed assessment, accurate diagnosis & evidenced-based treatment plan & medication. Let me help you find the BEST version of you!
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Photo of Mind Mechanics-Kristin A Manning, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MBA, APRNFNP, PMHNP
Mind Mechanics-Kristin A Manning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MBA, APRNFNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Your mental health is important to your overall health and well-being. If you suffer from mental health concerns you may need to seek a practitioner who specializes exclusively in mental health and can perform testing, appropriately diagnose and prescribe medication in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I listen to you to fully understand your individual needs and am dedicated in partnering with you along your journey to improve your quality of life. If you want to begin your mental wellness journey, email me. You will be one step closer to being able to say, "I've never felt better."
Your mental health is important to your overall health and well-being. If you suffer from mental health concerns you may need to seek a practitioner who specializes exclusively in mental health and can perform testing, appropriately diagnose and prescribe medication in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I listen to you to fully understand your individual needs and am dedicated in partnering with you along your journey to improve your quality of life. If you want to begin your mental wellness journey, email me. You will be one step closer to being able to say, "I've never felt better."
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jimmy Chenowith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Jimmy Chenowith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123
Do you wonder if medication is the appropriate next step for you? I would like to help you figure that out. I often meet people who have either been on medication before and want to make adjustments or are currently taking something and wonder if it is right for them or are completely new to it. You do not have to figure it out on your own. I primarily see teenagers to adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
Do you wonder if medication is the appropriate next step for you? I would like to help you figure that out. I often meet people who have either been on medication before and want to make adjustments or are currently taking something and wonder if it is right for them or are completely new to it. You do not have to figure it out on your own. I primarily see teenagers to adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
(317) 561-1982 View (317) 561-1982
Photo of Kelly Lynn Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Kelly Lynn Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46216
I am committed to providing patients with compassionate, comprehensive and individualized care. The mental health of my patients is my top priority as a provider. I personally understand the unique challenges you face growing up with close relatives with severe mental illnesses, who were marginalized and received inadequate healthcare. My goal is to support patients in achieving a balanced and fulfilled life by addressing their specific needs and working together to set and reach treatment goals.
I am committed to providing patients with compassionate, comprehensive and individualized care. The mental health of my patients is my top priority as a provider. I personally understand the unique challenges you face growing up with close relatives with severe mental illnesses, who were marginalized and received inadequate healthcare. My goal is to support patients in achieving a balanced and fulfilled life by addressing their specific needs and working together to set and reach treatment goals.
(463) 888-6806 View (463) 888-6806
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
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) 458-5454 View (317) 458-5454

See more therapy options for 46060

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 46060

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 46060 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
76% Depression
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Bipolar Disorder
71% Medication Management
65% ADHD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
71% Aetna
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 46060 see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 46060?

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.