Psychiatrists 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.
Deborah (Deb) Stamper is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and has been involved in the care of children, adolescents and adults for more than 24 years. Deborah was a public-school teacher for 10 years prior to becoming a nurse and expanded her passion for working with families into mental health/behavioral health care. She has a Master of Arts in Education and a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana University. Her experience includes both acute inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, and group / family educational focus groups.
Deborah (Deb) Stamper is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and has been involved in the care of children, adolescents and adults for more than 24 years. Deborah was a public-school teacher for 10 years prior to becoming a nurse and expanded her passion for working with families into mental health/behavioral health care. She has a Master of Arts in Education and a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana University. Her experience includes both acute inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, and group / family educational focus groups.
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.
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.
Mind Mechanics-Kristin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MBA, APRNFNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD or other mental health concern? I specialize in diagnosing and prescribing medications in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I will carefully listen to you in order to fully understand your individual concerns and needs. I will ask questions about diet, sleep, exercise as well as daily stressors as all of these can affect mental health. You won't find another provider more devoted in helping you feel like yourself again. So, isn't it about time that you start enjoying life? Don't wait another day. Begin your mental wellness journey now. You won't regret it.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD or other mental health concern? I specialize in diagnosing and prescribing medications in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I will carefully listen to you in order to fully understand your individual concerns and needs. I will ask questions about diet, sleep, exercise as well as daily stressors as all of these can affect mental health. You won't find another provider more devoted in helping you feel like yourself again. So, isn't it about time that you start enjoying life? Don't wait another day. Begin your mental wellness journey now. You won't regret it.
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.
Mind Mechanics -Kimberly S. Huff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
4 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!
We understand the frustrations that can come along with mental health treatment. Everything from “my provider doesn’t listen” to “I can’t afford this medication.” While we can’t solve all of the world’s problems in a single visit, we can guarantee that we put the patient first…ALWAYS. We are humbled to offer medication management services and also psychotherapy! Our newest therapist, CP, has immediate availability!
We understand the frustrations that can come along with mental health treatment. Everything from “my provider doesn’t listen” to “I can’t afford this medication.” While we can’t solve all of the world’s problems in a single visit, we can guarantee that we put the patient first…ALWAYS. We are humbled to offer medication management services and also psychotherapy! Our newest therapist, CP, has immediate availability!
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.
Ronda Owens-Dehmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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.
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health. I have been practicing as an NP for 2 years in both inpatient and outpatient settings with experience in treating clients with a variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Addiction, PTSD and many others.
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health. I have been practicing as an NP for 2 years in both inpatient and outpatient settings with experience in treating clients with a variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Addiction, PTSD and many others.
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 perinatal-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 you. 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 perinatal-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 you. Additionally, I emphasize a holistic approach that focuses on movement, nutrition, therapy, etc, as mental wellness is more than just taking a pill.
Maybe you’ve been wrestling with persistent anxiety, depression, trouble focusing, or mood swings that make everyday life feel heavy. Perhaps past trauma, stress, or instability in sleep or attention leaves you exhausted or disconnected. You want more than a quick fix, you want clarity, balance, and a way to feel like yourself again: to sleep better, feel calmer, and wake up with confidence instead of dread.
Maybe you’ve been wrestling with persistent anxiety, depression, trouble focusing, or mood swings that make everyday life feel heavy. Perhaps past trauma, stress, or instability in sleep or attention leaves you exhausted or disconnected. You want more than a quick fix, you want clarity, balance, and a way to feel like yourself again: to sleep better, feel calmer, and wake up with confidence instead of dread.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Josie has a special interest in helping people manage the challenges of post-partum depression and anxiety, sleep disorders, and PTSD/trauma. She also supports individuals navigating major life transitions, from adolescence through later life changes, offering both understanding and clinical expertise. By addressing mental health needs with care and precision, she empowers patients to regain balance and improve their quality of life.
Josie has a special interest in helping people manage the challenges of post-partum depression and anxiety, sleep disorders, and PTSD/trauma. She also supports individuals navigating major life transitions, from adolescence through later life changes, offering both understanding and clinical expertise. By addressing mental health needs with care and precision, she empowers patients to regain balance and improve their quality of life.
Ashlie Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Ashlie Collins, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in ADHD. Ashlie's personalized, patient-centered approach to care empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Ashlie offers tailored treatment plans and uses the most current evidence-based practices to address the complex interplay between physical and mental health. She creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Let Ashlie help you achieve your mental health goals.
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Ashlie Collins, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in ADHD. Ashlie's personalized, patient-centered approach to care empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Ashlie offers tailored treatment plans and uses the most current evidence-based practices to address the complex interplay between physical and mental health. She creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Let Ashlie help you achieve your mental health goals.
Hi! I'm Noelle, and I am so glad you are here. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 17 years of experience working in psychiatric mental health. Upon beginning my career, I quickly found my love and passion for psychiatric mental health nursing and over the years have remained dedicated to this field. This dedication, along with a wide range of clinical expertise, led me to pursue my advanced nursing practice degree of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been working as a PMHNP for the past 8 years. I look forward to working with you and supporting you in mental health journey.
Hi! I'm Noelle, and I am so glad you are here. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 17 years of experience working in psychiatric mental health. Upon beginning my career, I quickly found my love and passion for psychiatric mental health nursing and over the years have remained dedicated to this field. This dedication, along with a wide range of clinical expertise, led me to pursue my advanced nursing practice degree of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been working as a PMHNP for the past 8 years. I look forward to working with you and supporting you in mental health journey.
A key area of Teri’s passion is supporting individuals with more complex and high-acuity needs. She has extensive experience working with patients who have been recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals, helping ensure continuity of care and smoother transitions back into daily life. Teri also assists individuals navigating current legal matters and those requiring disability-related documentation, approaching these situations with care, professionalism, and attention to detail. Her goal is to reduce stress during challenging periods while helping patients feel understood, supported, and empowered.
A key area of Teri’s passion is supporting individuals with more complex and high-acuity needs. She has extensive experience working with patients who have been recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals, helping ensure continuity of care and smoother transitions back into daily life. Teri also assists individuals navigating current legal matters and those requiring disability-related documentation, approaching these situations with care, professionalism, and attention to detail. Her goal is to reduce stress during challenging periods while helping patients feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Welcome to your fresh start! Take a deep breath because the hardest part is over- you are here!
Hi! I’m Joni, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. That means I can provide you medication management and therapy to help with whatever is making your life balance not quite what you want it to be. NEW! Online Neurospsych, FDA Approved ADHD Testing For Children and Adults! (just to note- this requires an additional cash pay fee which will be discussed during our first meeting if you are interested) , as well as Basic ADHD testing and medical management( this is covered under your insurance through Grow).
Welcome to your fresh start! Take a deep breath because the hardest part is over- you are here!
Hi! I’m Joni, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. That means I can provide you medication management and therapy to help with whatever is making your life balance not quite what you want it to be. NEW! Online Neurospsych, FDA Approved ADHD Testing For Children and Adults! (just to note- this requires an additional cash pay fee which will be discussed during our first meeting if you are interested) , as well as Basic ADHD testing and medical management( this is covered under your insurance through Grow).
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
Catherine Oplinger, NP, helps children, teens, and adults across Indiana find stability and healing through compassionate and personalized mental health care. She provides medication management for patients as young as early childhood through seniors, creating treatment plans that are tailored to each individual’s unique needs. At LifeStance Health, Catherine offers supportive, research-based care designed to improve well-being and empower patients at every stage of life.
Catherine Oplinger, NP, helps children, teens, and adults across Indiana find stability and healing through compassionate and personalized mental health care. She provides medication management for patients as young as early childhood through seniors, creating treatment plans that are tailored to each individual’s unique needs. At LifeStance Health, Catherine offers supportive, research-based care designed to improve well-being and empower patients at every stage of life.
See more therapy options for 46060
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 46060
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 46060 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 85% | Depression |
| 77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 69% | ADHD |
| 69% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 69% | Sleep or Insomnia |
| 69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 91% | Anthem |
| 82% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 46060 see their clients
| 77% | In Person and Online | |
| 23% | 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


