Psychiatrists in 46250

Photo of Avery Schmidt, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Avery Schmidt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
My ideal client is a patient struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diagnoses. They've tried traditional therapies and medications, but haven't found relief. They're seeking a safe, effective, and innovative treatment option that can help them improve their quality of life and regain hope. They want to be able to function normally, enjoy relationships, and pursue their passions without constant pain and suffering.
My ideal client is a patient struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diagnoses. They've tried traditional therapies and medications, but haven't found relief. They're seeking a safe, effective, and innovative treatment option that can help them improve their quality of life and regain hope. They want to be able to function normally, enjoy relationships, and pursue their passions without constant pain and suffering.
(463) 666-3103 View (463) 666-3103
Photo of Magdalene Bambo, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Magdalene Bambo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
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
Photo of Kimberly Grider, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Grider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Kimberly Grider is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
Kimberly Grider is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
(463) 583-1893 View (463) 583-1893
Photo of Jessica Roberts, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to helping individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. I offer comprehensive psychiatric care, including medication management, to support your unique needs. My approach is patient-centered and collaborative, focusing on finding the right treatment plan for you.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to helping individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. I offer comprehensive psychiatric care, including medication management, to support your unique needs. My approach is patient-centered and collaborative, focusing on finding the right treatment plan for you.
(463) 218-9542 View (463) 218-9542
Photo of Heather Lett With Innate Way Wellness, MSN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Lett With Innate Way Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes given the right support, everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles. I love learning about my clients and how best to serve them! I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes given the right support, everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles. I love learning about my clients and how best to serve them! I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
(317) 751-9959 View (317) 751-9959
Photo of Lauren Alcorn, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Alcorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, certified nutritionist and wellness coach, and I believe that with the right support everyone is capable of feeling better. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, certified nutritionist and wellness coach, and I believe that with the right support everyone is capable of feeling better. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles.
(317) 483-8351 View (317) 483-8351
Photo of Kimberly Grider - LifeStance Health, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
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 Lois Hughes, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lois Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Lois Hughes, PMHNP-BC . Lois Hughes is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2000. She has a Masters in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health.
Lois Hughes, PMHNP-BC . Lois Hughes is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2000. She has a Masters in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health.
(463) 400-2815 View (463) 400-2815
Photo of Elizabeth Rush, NP-C, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Rush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
I am Liz Rush, Nurse Practitioner. I am both a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked for over 18 years in the healthcare system and inpatient and outpatient. I have spent the last 10 years working in the outpatient setting and working in Integrative Primary Care. Seeing how prevalent mental health needs are in our society and in our local community is what prompted me to go back to school after I was already an FNP to obtain may PMHNP also in order to better prepare and equip myself to help meet the needs of my patients.
I am Liz Rush, Nurse Practitioner. I am both a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked for over 18 years in the healthcare system and inpatient and outpatient. I have spent the last 10 years working in the outpatient setting and working in Integrative Primary Care. Seeing how prevalent mental health needs are in our society and in our local community is what prompted me to go back to school after I was already an FNP to obtain may PMHNP also in order to better prepare and equip myself to help meet the needs of my patients.
(463) 273-3335 View (463) 273-3335
Rebecca J. Moredock Mueller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and current Professor of Forensic Psychiatry. I work with children (5 and older), adolescents and adults and my particular areas of focus are mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Spectrum, and Seasonal Affective Disorder), Anxiety Spectrum, Eating Disorders, Special Needs Children, ADD/ADHD. I also offer specialty evaluations pertaining to child adoption, aviation, and forensics. My practice is located right off of State Road 9 and I-70 in Greenfield,IN. Please feel free to contact us if you are in need, I try to reserve appointment spots for new patients so I can typically get people in quickly.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and current Professor of Forensic Psychiatry. I work with children (5 and older), adolescents and adults and my particular areas of focus are mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Spectrum, and Seasonal Affective Disorder), Anxiety Spectrum, Eating Disorders, Special Needs Children, ADD/ADHD. I also offer specialty evaluations pertaining to child adoption, aviation, and forensics. My practice is located right off of State Road 9 and I-70 in Greenfield,IN. Please feel free to contact us if you are in need, I try to reserve appointment spots for new patients so I can typically get people in quickly.
(317) 961-8548 View (317) 961-8548
Laura Quast
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Not accepting new clients
(463) 403-0486 View (463) 403-0486

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Greta Logan Krause - Dr. Greta L. Krause, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Greta L. Krause
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
(317) 316-3026 View (317) 316-3026
Photo of 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 Nida Javed Syed, MD, Psychiatrist
Nida Javed Syed
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46236
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. I offer in person and telehealth visits.
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. I offer in person and telehealth visits.
(317) 342-0842 View (317) 342-0842
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46226
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.
(463) 348-4226 View (463) 348-4226
Photo of Carl T Ratliff Jr, DO, Psychiatrist
Carl T Ratliff Jr
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
As a double-board-certified psychiatrist with over fifteen years in the industry, I understand the difficulties families face in accessing quality mental health care. Although qualified to see people of all ages, I am passionate about caring for individuals under 18. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorders, as well as substance use disorders. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, decrease stress, improve individual functioning, and improve family dynamics.
As a double-board-certified psychiatrist with over fifteen years in the industry, I understand the difficulties families face in accessing quality mental health care. Although qualified to see people of all ages, I am passionate about caring for individuals under 18. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorders, as well as substance use disorders. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, decrease stress, improve individual functioning, and improve family dynamics.
(463) 250-5838 View (463) 250-5838
Photo of Shelby Wade, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shelby Wade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Nick Kelly, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nick Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, and addiction. I believe it's my duty to legitimize/de-stigmatize mental health. I am YOUR ally. It's important to me that you feel heard. Be proud of yourself for taking a risk and reaching out to a stranger. Our discussions are confidential. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD, anxiety, or depression their whole lives but haven't been given the time or resources they need to thrive. We will discuss medication management, but also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give homework, and real world tips to work on between our visits.
Hello! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, and addiction. I believe it's my duty to legitimize/de-stigmatize mental health. I am YOUR ally. It's important to me that you feel heard. Be proud of yourself for taking a risk and reaching out to a stranger. Our discussions are confidential. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD, anxiety, or depression their whole lives but haven't been given the time or resources they need to thrive. We will discuss medication management, but also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give homework, and real world tips to work on between our visits.
View
Photo of Abimbola Oluwasesin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abimbola Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46268
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 Dana Wiesenfeld, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Dana Wiesenfeld
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46205
Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
(727) 594-8818 View (727) 594-8818

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 46250

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 46250 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
91% Trauma and PTSD
73% ADHD
73% Bipolar Disorder
73% Medication Management
55% Child

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Humana
83% Aetna
83% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 46250 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 46250?

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.