Psychiatrists in 46260

Photo of Nick Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Nick Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
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.
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Photo of Auggy Hone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Auggy Hone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Auggy, and I am a PMHNP specializing in mood, anxiolytic, and addiction disorders. A special focus and interest in PTSD and OCD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients. This means we work together to solidify a treatment plan, including the use of medications if necessary. While I may have expertise in this area, I believe that you are the expert when it comes to your health. Therefore, your input during our sessions is of most importance. My goals at the end of the day are to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with your medication regimen while experiencing minimal to no side-effects.
Hello! My name is Auggy, and I am a PMHNP specializing in mood, anxiolytic, and addiction disorders. A special focus and interest in PTSD and OCD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients. This means we work together to solidify a treatment plan, including the use of medications if necessary. While I may have expertise in this area, I believe that you are the expert when it comes to your health. Therefore, your input during our sessions is of most importance. My goals at the end of the day are to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with your medication regimen while experiencing minimal to no side-effects.
(317) 961-7856 View (317) 961-7856
Photo of Sabrina White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Sabrina White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am co-owner of Clear Perspectives and an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats patients across the life-span. Additionally, I am certified in the treatment of Perinatal Mood Disorders through Postpartum Support International. I believe in a whole patient approach to mental health care including ongoing collaboration with providers, families and utilizing the latest research.
I am co-owner of Clear Perspectives and an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats patients across the life-span. Additionally, I am certified in the treatment of Perinatal Mood Disorders through Postpartum Support International. I believe in a whole patient approach to mental health care including ongoing collaboration with providers, families and utilizing the latest research.
(317) 676-5661 View (317) 676-5661
Photo of Ashley Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC
Ashley Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi, my name is Ashley! As a pediatric nurse of 20 years I saw the struggles that our youth (and their parents) were having with mental health. While seeking care for my own children and finding a limited amount of providers or long waitlists, I felt a calling to be part of the solution. My ideal client is someone who is open to help, even if they are nervous, scared or unsure. I hope you will find me to be a caring and empathetic provider who wants to walk alongside you in yours or your loved ones treatment.
Hi, my name is Ashley! As a pediatric nurse of 20 years I saw the struggles that our youth (and their parents) were having with mental health. While seeking care for my own children and finding a limited amount of providers or long waitlists, I felt a calling to be part of the solution. My ideal client is someone who is open to help, even if they are nervous, scared or unsure. I hope you will find me to be a caring and empathetic provider who wants to walk alongside you in yours or your loved ones treatment.
(317) 836-2579 View (317) 836-2579
Photo of Adam Humphrey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Adam Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I’m here to support, educate, and guide you through your mental health journey, but remember—you’re the one in control. You make the final decisions, and I’m here to walk beside you, offering tools, strategies, and encouragement to help you navigate the challenges. Together, we’ll explore what works best for you, celebrate your progress, and build stability for your future. Your journey is unique, and I’m ready to help you take the next step. PLEASE reach out through EMAIL for the fastest response and feel free to share any details of what you are looking for help with.
I’m here to support, educate, and guide you through your mental health journey, but remember—you’re the one in control. You make the final decisions, and I’m here to walk beside you, offering tools, strategies, and encouragement to help you navigate the challenges. Together, we’ll explore what works best for you, celebrate your progress, and build stability for your future. Your journey is unique, and I’m ready to help you take the next step. PLEASE reach out through EMAIL for the fastest response and feel free to share any details of what you are looking for help with.
(317) 751-7164 View (317) 751-7164
Photo of Stephanie Fortman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Stephanie Fortman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a holistic approach to mental health, focusing on the mind-body connection. My goal is not just to manage symptoms but to support your overall well-being. We'll explore medication options when needed and look at how lifestyle factors like sleep, diet, exercise, and stress impact your mental health. Together, we’ll create a balanced plan for healing and lasting recovery. I'm here to listen, support, and empower you as we work toward your goals.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a holistic approach to mental health, focusing on the mind-body connection. My goal is not just to manage symptoms but to support your overall well-being. We'll explore medication options when needed and look at how lifestyle factors like sleep, diet, exercise, and stress impact your mental health. Together, we’ll create a balanced plan for healing and lasting recovery. I'm here to listen, support, and empower you as we work toward your goals.
(463) 348-2787 View (463) 348-2787
Photo of Courtney Tharp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Courtney Tharp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! I have been a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner for almost 4 years. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, but have primarily focused on treating children and adolescents. I also have a strong passion for helping new parents and families, and am certified in perinatal mental health. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees from Indiana University (go Hoosiers!) and am a member of the Coalition of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses of Indiana (CAPNI).
Hello! I have been a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner for almost 4 years. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, but have primarily focused on treating children and adolescents. I also have a strong passion for helping new parents and families, and am certified in perinatal mental health. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees from Indiana University (go Hoosiers!) and am a member of the Coalition of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses of Indiana (CAPNI).
(463) 283-5580 View (463) 283-5580
Photo of Meko Kokeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Meko Kokeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello, my name is Meko. I am a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who wants to help meet your mental health needs. My primary goal for you is to increase your confidence in your abilities to achieve set goals and to assure you that help is always available. I became a mental health provider simply because, I have identified that I have an innate ability to render compassionate mental health care to those in need. Apart from using clinical skills to diagnose and treatment patients according to their individual needs, I am also committed to listening, providing support, and working with patients to achieve desire outcomes
Hello, my name is Meko. I am a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who wants to help meet your mental health needs. My primary goal for you is to increase your confidence in your abilities to achieve set goals and to assure you that help is always available. I became a mental health provider simply because, I have identified that I have an innate ability to render compassionate mental health care to those in need. Apart from using clinical skills to diagnose and treatment patients according to their individual needs, I am also committed to listening, providing support, and working with patients to achieve desire outcomes
(317) 666-4796 View (317) 666-4796
Photo of Rinkoo Sidhu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Rinkoo Sidhu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Many of my patients seek care for mood disorders, anxiety, or other mental health conditions that may benefit from medication management as part of their treatment plan. They may have tried therapy alone and found it helpful but feel there is still something missing in their journey towards wellness. These clients want a comprehensive approach that combines both psychotherapy and medication to achieve better mental health outcomes. Their goals include finding the right balance of medication to complement their therapy, improving their quality of life, and gaining stability in their emotional and mental well-being.
Many of my patients seek care for mood disorders, anxiety, or other mental health conditions that may benefit from medication management as part of their treatment plan. They may have tried therapy alone and found it helpful but feel there is still something missing in their journey towards wellness. These clients want a comprehensive approach that combines both psychotherapy and medication to achieve better mental health outcomes. Their goals include finding the right balance of medication to complement their therapy, improving their quality of life, and gaining stability in their emotional and mental well-being.
(317) 386-7095 View (317) 386-7095
Photo of Rwana Abulaban, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Rwana Abulaban
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
(463) 583-1497 View (463) 583-1497
Photo of Katherine Monica Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN MSN , FNP-C
Katherine Monica Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN MSN , FNP-C
Online Only
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages. Our minds and bodies work together and when one area is not healthy, other areas can struggle as well. My goal is to assist in rebuilding a healthier and happier person inside and out.
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages. Our minds and bodies work together and when one area is not healthy, other areas can struggle as well. My goal is to assist in rebuilding a healthier and happier person inside and out.
(317) 876-3699 View (317) 876-3699
Photo of Jennifer Vandivier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Jennifer Vandivier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold advanced training in diagnosing and treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other complex psychiatric needs. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel empowered to discuss your personal challenges. My approach is holistic & collaborative, working closely with you as we develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
Hello! I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold advanced training in diagnosing and treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other complex psychiatric needs. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel empowered to discuss your personal challenges. My approach is holistic & collaborative, working closely with you as we develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
(463) 259-7860 View (463) 259-7860
Photo of Bolu Iyiola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bolu Iyiola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Living with a mental health condition can sometimes be challenging, disrupting relationships, family, work and overall quality of life. I assure you that receiving holistic care tailored to your needs can improve patient outcomes.
Living with a mental health condition can sometimes be challenging, disrupting relationships, family, work and overall quality of life. I assure you that receiving holistic care tailored to your needs can improve patient outcomes.
(317) 936-3984 View (317) 936-3984
Photo of Tina Duncan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tina Duncan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Tina Duncan is a nurse based in Indianapolis. She became a nurse in 1997 after earning her BSN from Indiana University of South Bend. In 2015, she obtained her master’s degree in Adult and Geriatric Primary Care from Walden University, and in 2022, she completed a post-master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Across the Lifespan from Northern Kentucky University.
Tina Duncan is a nurse based in Indianapolis. She became a nurse in 1997 after earning her BSN from Indiana University of South Bend. In 2015, she obtained her master’s degree in Adult and Geriatric Primary Care from Walden University, and in 2022, she completed a post-master’s certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Across the Lifespan from Northern Kentucky University.
(317) 204-8018 View (317) 204-8018
Photo of Madeline Briere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Madeline Briere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am the co-owner and operator of Clear Perspectives, LLC, an outpatient family mental health practice in Indianapolis, IN. I believe in a holistic approach to mental healthcare and utilize a variety of techniques including psychiatric medications alongside nutraceuticals (or supplements) with some behavioral therapy and lifestyle interventions in order to create personalized treatment plans. I believe that mental health symptoms rarely exist in a vacuum and love to work with entire families and/or support systems to ensure I am addressing the whole picture.
I am the co-owner and operator of Clear Perspectives, LLC, an outpatient family mental health practice in Indianapolis, IN. I believe in a holistic approach to mental healthcare and utilize a variety of techniques including psychiatric medications alongside nutraceuticals (or supplements) with some behavioral therapy and lifestyle interventions in order to create personalized treatment plans. I believe that mental health symptoms rarely exist in a vacuum and love to work with entire families and/or support systems to ensure I am addressing the whole picture.
(317) 967-9323 View (317) 967-9323
Photo of Kristin Clyne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Kristin Clyne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who evaluates, diagnoses, and treats mental health disorders. I see clients ages 18 and older and most familiar caring for those who have anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and those who struggle with addiction. I want each of my clients to know I am truly interested in their unique story and know that our session is a judgment free zone. I want to meet people where they are in their journey and help them reach their own personal goals so they can live the life they are so hopeful to have.
Hello! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who evaluates, diagnoses, and treats mental health disorders. I see clients ages 18 and older and most familiar caring for those who have anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and those who struggle with addiction. I want each of my clients to know I am truly interested in their unique story and know that our session is a judgment free zone. I want to meet people where they are in their journey and help them reach their own personal goals so they can live the life they are so hopeful to have.
(463) 255-8885 View (463) 255-8885
Photo of Lindsay Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Lindsay Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! My name is Lindsay,. I take pride in being on YOUR team. I will work with you to create the best treatment plan to meet your needs. YOU are in charge of your treatment. I am only your "helper" to get you where you want to be. We will work together to ensure you are confident in our treatment decisions while achieving desired outcomes safely. My ideal patient is someone who is seeking personal growth and healing. Everyone deserves to wake up looking forward to starting their day by identifying the positives in their lives, changing controllable negatives, and coping with uncontrollable negatives that impede happiness!
Hello! My name is Lindsay,. I take pride in being on YOUR team. I will work with you to create the best treatment plan to meet your needs. YOU are in charge of your treatment. I am only your "helper" to get you where you want to be. We will work together to ensure you are confident in our treatment decisions while achieving desired outcomes safely. My ideal patient is someone who is seeking personal growth and healing. Everyone deserves to wake up looking forward to starting their day by identifying the positives in their lives, changing controllable negatives, and coping with uncontrollable negatives that impede happiness!
(317) 620-8394 View (317) 620-8394
Photo of Shani Berrios, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Shani Berrios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.
(765) 249-3760 View (765) 249-3760
Photo of Brittany Bullard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Brittany Bullard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Brittany Bullard and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of practice experience. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. We are also a Spravato treatment center and have current opening for patients seeking Spravato treatment for depression. I am located in Carmel, IN at MindFit Counseling and Wellness Center and am able to see clients in person and virtually.
My name is Brittany Bullard and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of practice experience. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. We are also a Spravato treatment center and have current opening for patients seeking Spravato treatment for depression. I am located in Carmel, IN at MindFit Counseling and Wellness Center and am able to see clients in person and virtually.
(463) 403-1113 View (463) 403-1113
Photo of Carl T Ratliff Jr, Psychiatrist, DO
Carl T Ratliff Jr
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
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
1

See more therapy options for 46260

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 46260

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 46260 who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
90% ADHD
81% Trauma and PTSD
76% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
93% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
93% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in 46260 see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 46260?

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.