Psychiatrists in 46240

Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(317) 953-5396 View (317) 953-5396
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(317) 934-6199 View (317) 934-6199
Photo of Jesseca Washburn - Helix Health Group , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helix Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I am the co-owner and operator of Helix Health group. I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy. Please see helixhealthgroup.com for all pertinent scheduling and practice information, including our new monthly membership medication management plan of 75/month.
I am the co-owner and operator of Helix Health group. I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy. Please see helixhealthgroup.com for all pertinent scheduling and practice information, including our new monthly membership medication management plan of 75/month.
(317) 343-8462 View (317) 343-8462
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(317) 593-8095 View (317) 593-8095
Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lacy Pippin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.
(463) 252-3332 View (463) 252-3332
Photo of Jill Lavonne Adams, MSN , ANP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jill Lavonne Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , ANP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with 20 years experience. You don't have to struggle alone I am here to help! You will have my undivided attention, patience and compassion. My practice philosophy is 'Holistic,' avoid symptom chasing- get to the underlying problem. If you're tired of trying many different treatments with no results and feel as though no one is listening, you have come to the right place! Together, we will formulate a treatment plan specific to your individual needs.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with 20 years experience. You don't have to struggle alone I am here to help! You will have my undivided attention, patience and compassion. My practice philosophy is 'Holistic,' avoid symptom chasing- get to the underlying problem. If you're tired of trying many different treatments with no results and feel as though no one is listening, you have come to the right place! Together, we will formulate a treatment plan specific to your individual needs.
(463) 275-2783 View (463) 275-2783
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(317) 676-1071 View (317) 676-1071
Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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
Photo of Tanesha McWilliams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tanesha McWilliams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
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.
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.
(317) 527-4041 View (317) 527-4041
Photo of Laura Johnston - Helix Health Group, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helix Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
(317) 350-8838 View (317) 350-8838
Photo of Dr. James Brown, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. James Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with James and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "Psychiatry has been a natural fit for me throughout my professional career. I have been a registered nurse since 1995, became a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015; I returned to Rush University in 2019 for a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am happy to be a part of the mental health care field as it evolves and becomes more effective and available! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone to scan this QR code:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with James and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "Psychiatry has been a natural fit for me throughout my professional career. I have been a registered nurse since 1995, became a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015; I returned to Rush University in 2019 for a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am happy to be a part of the mental health care field as it evolves and becomes more effective and available! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone to scan this QR code:
(463) 219-5167 View (463) 219-5167
Photo of Tejbir Ghuman, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tejbir Ghuman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
I have years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various psychiatric diagnosis. I treat depression, anxiety, and mood disorders via my virtual platform. I do not treat ADHD/ADD symptoms, substance abuse, or prescribe any controlled substances via my virtual practice. Intake appointments generally take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour. I will complete a psychiatric evaluation and provide a diagnosis (if appropriate). We will then discuss a treatment plan and follow up. We will determine the need for medication management and individual therapy based on symptoms and needs.
I have years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various psychiatric diagnosis. I treat depression, anxiety, and mood disorders via my virtual platform. I do not treat ADHD/ADD symptoms, substance abuse, or prescribe any controlled substances via my virtual practice. Intake appointments generally take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour. I will complete a psychiatric evaluation and provide a diagnosis (if appropriate). We will then discuss a treatment plan and follow up. We will determine the need for medication management and individual therapy based on symptoms and needs.
(317) 350-8379 View (317) 350-8379
Photo of Shelby Wade, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shelby Wade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Shelby. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have a profound commitment to holistic healing and unwavering compassion, I have dedicated my career to transforming the lives of those grappling with mental health challenges. I have a genuine dedication to your well-being,I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience.
Hi, I'm Shelby. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have a profound commitment to holistic healing and unwavering compassion, I have dedicated my career to transforming the lives of those grappling with mental health challenges. I have a genuine dedication to your well-being,I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience.
(463) 304-0739 View (463) 304-0739
Photo of Abimbola Oluwasesin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abimbola Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am based in Indiana, I offer office visits as well as virtual appointments. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am based in Indiana, I offer office visits as well as virtual appointments. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan.
(765) 275-9932 View (765) 275-9932
Photo of Dr. Femi Akinsanya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Femi Akinsanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
(463) 232-7332 View (463) 232-7332
Photo of Jerri Molina, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jerri Molina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Indiana and Kentucky since 2015. I have been in nursing and healthcare for over 28 years. I am comfortable treating children to older adults.
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Indiana and Kentucky since 2015. I have been in nursing and healthcare for over 28 years. I am comfortable treating children to older adults.
(463) 285-8979 View (463) 285-8979
Photo of Tajuana Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tajuana Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.
My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.
(463) 583-8014 View (463) 583-8014
Photo of Dr. Gayatri Singh, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Gayatri Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
(812) 906-5934 View (812) 906-5934
Photo of Kimberly Grider - LifeStance Health, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
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.
(866) 227-9628 View (866) 227-9628
Photo of Magdalene Bambo, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Magdalene Bambo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Magdalene Bambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program from Indiana University-Purdue University, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Cum Laude, from Indiana State University. Magdalene provides quality evidence-based approaches that is unique and personalized to the need of each client. She partners with her clients to provide safe, empathetic treatment in a non-judgmental manner.
Magdalene Bambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program from Indiana University-Purdue University, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Cum Laude, from Indiana State University. Magdalene provides quality evidence-based approaches that is unique and personalized to the need of each client. She partners with her clients to provide safe, empathetic treatment in a non-judgmental manner.
(317) 836-2456 View (317) 836-2456
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 46240

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 46240 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
96% Depression
78% ADHD
74% Trauma and PTSD
70% Bipolar Disorder
61% Medication Management
57% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
86% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 46240 see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 46240?

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.