Psychiatrists in 46064
My ideal clients are kids, teens, and adults who feel stuck, whether it’s constant anxiety, low mood, trouble focusing, or recovering from trauma. Many have tried to “push through” on their own but want real support and relief. They’re looking for someone who listens, explains things clearly, and helps them feel understood. Their goals often include feeling more stable, improving relationships, doing better in school or work, and finding healthy ways to cope. At the core, they just want to feel like themselves again.
My ideal clients are kids, teens, and adults who feel stuck, whether it’s constant anxiety, low mood, trouble focusing, or recovering from trauma. Many have tried to “push through” on their own but want real support and relief. They’re looking for someone who listens, explains things clearly, and helps them feel understood. Their goals often include feeling more stable, improving relationships, doing better in school or work, and finding healthy ways to cope. At the core, they just want to feel like themselves again.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Fourth Trimester Wellness Journeys
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSSA, LCSW, PMH-C
Fishers, IN 46038
Becoming a parent is life-changing—and it can also feel overwhelming, lonely, and confusing. If you’re struggling with anxiety, sadness, irritability, or scary thoughts during pregnancy or after birth, you are not alone—and you are not failing. We're here to help you feel like yourself again. You deserve compassionate care during this tender and transformative time. I invite you to reach out—relief and healing are possible.
Becoming a parent is life-changing—and it can also feel overwhelming, lonely, and confusing. If you’re struggling with anxiety, sadness, irritability, or scary thoughts during pregnancy or after birth, you are not alone—and you are not failing. We're here to help you feel like yourself again. You deserve compassionate care during this tender and transformative time. I invite you to reach out—relief and healing are possible.
We treat difficult depression by thoughtfully incorporating ketamine-based care when appropriate. Treatments include IV ketamine, nasal spray ketamine, and Spravato (esketamine) as part of comprehensive medical-psychiatric treatment. IV treatment is provided in a private room and delivered by Dr. Dull who will be with you for the entire session (not by proxy or by phone). This means care is delivered by a medical doctor with specialized training in both medicine and psychiatry. This allows Dr. Dull to use ketamine with safety and precision in real time and as part of your long term plan (developed by us or your provider).
We treat difficult depression by thoughtfully incorporating ketamine-based care when appropriate. Treatments include IV ketamine, nasal spray ketamine, and Spravato (esketamine) as part of comprehensive medical-psychiatric treatment. IV treatment is provided in a private room and delivered by Dr. Dull who will be with you for the entire session (not by proxy or by phone). This means care is delivered by a medical doctor with specialized training in both medicine and psychiatry. This allows Dr. Dull to use ketamine with safety and precision in real time and as part of your long term plan (developed by us or your provider).
My name is Brittany Bullard and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of practice experience providing compassionate and collaborative mental health care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders across the lifespan. I recognize that each individual's story is unique, and I tailor treatment plans to meet the needs, strengths, and goals of each person I work with. My approach blends evidence-based therapeutic strategies with thoughtful medication management.
My name is Brittany Bullard and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of practice experience providing compassionate and collaborative mental health care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders across the lifespan. I recognize that each individual's story is unique, and I tailor treatment plans to meet the needs, strengths, and goals of each person I work with. My approach blends evidence-based therapeutic strategies with thoughtful medication management.
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.
At my private practice, I greatly enjoy helping people dealing with mental health issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I also specialize in victims of narcissistic abuse. We'll focus as a team on what YOU want to get out of treatment. I view my primary role as an educator. We will spend a lot of time sharing information that will guide us in developing your individualized treatment plan. My goals for you are the goals you set for yourself. I offer both medication management and individual psychotherapy, with emphasis on healthy lifestyle activities. I serve young adults to seniors.
At my private practice, I greatly enjoy helping people dealing with mental health issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I also specialize in victims of narcissistic abuse. We'll focus as a team on what YOU want to get out of treatment. I view my primary role as an educator. We will spend a lot of time sharing information that will guide us in developing your individualized treatment plan. My goals for you are the goals you set for yourself. I offer both medication management and individual psychotherapy, with emphasis on healthy lifestyle activities. I serve young adults to seniors.
Mind Mechanics -Kimberly S. Huff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
3 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037
Mind Mechanics, LLC. Now Offering Spravato!
Providing mental health assessment and medication management. Treatment for ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and all other mental health needs. I 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. Let me help you be the BEST version of you!
Mind Mechanics, LLC. Now Offering Spravato!
Providing mental health assessment and medication management. Treatment for ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and all other mental health needs. I 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. Let me help you be the BEST version of you!
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
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.
Her clinical focus includes helping individuals manage ADHD, anxiety, and depression, three of the most common concerns that can impact relationships, academic performance, work, and daily functioning. Tracy works closely with patients to identify treatment options that align with their goals and lifestyle while providing education and support throughout the treatment process. She understands that mental health needs can evolve over time and values creating a care plan that adapts to each patient's changing circumstances. Tracy provides medication management for a broad range of psychiatric conditions and life challenges.
Her clinical focus includes helping individuals manage ADHD, anxiety, and depression, three of the most common concerns that can impact relationships, academic performance, work, and daily functioning. Tracy works closely with patients to identify treatment options that align with their goals and lifestyle while providing education and support throughout the treatment process. She understands that mental health needs can evolve over time and values creating a care plan that adapts to each patient's changing circumstances. Tracy provides medication management for a broad range of psychiatric conditions and life challenges.
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.
As the co-owner and operator of Helix Health Group, I believe that true wellness starts with an open, empathetic connection. My goal is to create a supportive space where we can work together to design a treatment plan that feels right for you. This may include medications, holistic and alternative wellness practices, and/or psychotherapy, depending on your individual needs.
I’m passionate about blending modern medical care with holistic therapies, offering a truly patient-centered experience. Every person’s path to mental health is unique, and I’m committed to helping you find the approach that best supports your journey.
As the co-owner and operator of Helix Health Group, I believe that true wellness starts with an open, empathetic connection. My goal is to create a supportive space where we can work together to design a treatment plan that feels right for you. This may include medications, holistic and alternative wellness practices, and/or psychotherapy, depending on your individual needs.
I’m passionate about blending modern medical care with holistic therapies, offering a truly patient-centered experience. Every person’s path to mental health is unique, and I’m committed to helping you find the approach that best supports your journey.
I work with adults seeking thoughtful psychiatric care for ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood concerns, trauma, and the challenges of a busy life. Many of my clients are functioning well on the outside but struggling more than others realize. I believe meaningful care takes time. I prioritize getting to know you, building a strong therapeutic relationship, and looking beyond symptoms to understand the patterns, experiences, and needs that shape how you feel. Together, we’ll use that understanding to create a plan that helps you move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
I work with adults seeking thoughtful psychiatric care for ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood concerns, trauma, and the challenges of a busy life. Many of my clients are functioning well on the outside but struggling more than others realize. I believe meaningful care takes time. I prioritize getting to know you, building a strong therapeutic relationship, and looking beyond symptoms to understand the patterns, experiences, and needs that shape how you feel. Together, we’ll use that understanding to create a plan that helps you move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
Dr. Cox is a board certified psychiatrist who welcomes adults from all backgrounds and over a wide breadth of diagnoses. His experience with mental health issues in various clinical settings includes extensive inpatient, outpatient, military, and community service. Throughout these experiences, he has refined a dedication to the most comprehensive treatment and looks forward to engaging with those who are looking to improve any facet of their mental wellbeing.
Dr. Cox is a board certified psychiatrist who welcomes adults from all backgrounds and over a wide breadth of diagnoses. His experience with mental health issues in various clinical settings includes extensive inpatient, outpatient, military, and community service. Throughout these experiences, he has refined a dedication to the most comprehensive treatment and looks forward to engaging with those who are looking to improve any facet of their mental wellbeing.
Hello! I'm Chioma Nwokoro, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, and I am an experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals navigating mental health challenges. I specialize in compassionate, patient-centered care for individuals aged 13 and older, tailoring each treatment plan to address their unique experiences and needs.
Collaboration is at the heart of my approach. I partner with patients to explore their needs and goals, making shared decisions about treatment options that may include medication management, therapy, or lifestyle modifications.
Hello! I'm Chioma Nwokoro, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, and I am an experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals navigating mental health challenges. I specialize in compassionate, patient-centered care for individuals aged 13 and older, tailoring each treatment plan to address their unique experiences and needs.
Collaboration is at the heart of my approach. I partner with patients to explore their needs and goals, making shared decisions about treatment options that may include medication management, therapy, or lifestyle modifications.
Dr. Janjua is available for same/next week appointments via tele-health or in-person sessions in Buckhead or Virginia Highlands. He is a double board-certified forensic psychiatrist specialized in evidence-based and patient-centered treatment. He completed training in General Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry at Emory University School of Medicine. He treats children, teenagers, adults, and elderly patients. He also specializes in forensic psychiatry and conducts independent medical evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, competency to stand trial, and criminal responsibility evaluations.
Dr. Janjua is available for same/next week appointments via tele-health or in-person sessions in Buckhead or Virginia Highlands. He is a double board-certified forensic psychiatrist specialized in evidence-based and patient-centered treatment. He completed training in General Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry at Emory University School of Medicine. He treats children, teenagers, adults, and elderly patients. He also specializes in forensic psychiatry and conducts independent medical evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, competency to stand trial, and criminal responsibility evaluations.
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.
Before becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I spent years working in a surgical trauma intensive care unit, caring for patients and families during moments of fear, uncertainty, and profound vulnerability. In that setting, I saw how untreated emotional distress often preceded physical crisis and how closely mental and physical health are connected. Those experiences shaped my clinical perspective and reinforced my belief that thoughtful, timely psychiatric care, grounded in both science and compassion, can meaningfully change the course of a person’s life.
Before becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I spent years working in a surgical trauma intensive care unit, caring for patients and families during moments of fear, uncertainty, and profound vulnerability. In that setting, I saw how untreated emotional distress often preceded physical crisis and how closely mental and physical health are connected. Those experiences shaped my clinical perspective and reinforced my belief that thoughtful, timely psychiatric care, grounded in both science and compassion, can meaningfully change the course of a person’s life.
Available in Michigan, Indiana and Florida by telehealth. Available in person in Michigan.
I'm a board certified psychiatrist specializing in treating adults and teenagers with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD and other mental health issues. I take a look at the whole person. I strive to be a good listener and focus on addressing my patient's concerns. I have also trained in integrative psychiatry which allows me to have a broader set of treatment modalities on hand. I do psychotherapy and prescribe medications and supplements together, as needed.
Available in Michigan, Indiana and Florida by telehealth. Available in person in Michigan.
I'm a board certified psychiatrist specializing in treating adults and teenagers with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD and other mental health issues. I take a look at the whole person. I strive to be a good listener and focus on addressing my patient's concerns. I have also trained in integrative psychiatry which allows me to have a broader set of treatment modalities on hand. I do psychotherapy and prescribe medications and supplements together, as needed.
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 transitio
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 transitio
See more therapy options for 46064
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 46064
< 10
Psychiatrists in 46064 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Addiction |
| 100% | Child |
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | ADHD |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 100% | Humana |
| 100% | Managed Health Network (MHN) |
How Psychiatrists in 46064 see their clients
| 100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 46064?
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.

