Psychiatrists in 46750

Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Patricia Y Adeleye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patricia Y Adeleye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Trish. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. My clinical expertise spans a broad range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, utilizing an integrated approach of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy.
Hello, my name is Trish. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. My clinical expertise spans a broad range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia, ADHD, and substance use disorders, utilizing an integrated approach of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy.
(463) 270-4302 View (463) 270-4302

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Abimbola D Oluwasesin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Abimbola D Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47403
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, psychotic disorders and many more mental health specialties and diagnosis. I take all major insurances including medicare, medicaid, anthem, Aetna, Cigna, united healthcare /optum, carelon, quest behavioral health.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, psychotic disorders and many more mental health specialties and diagnosis. I take all major insurances including medicare, medicaid, anthem, Aetna, Cigna, united healthcare /optum, carelon, quest behavioral health.
(765) 246-8420 View (765) 246-8420
Photo of Joni Kay Whetzel - Bellwood Haven Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Bellwood Haven Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about helping those most in need.Many of my clients have not felt heard in the past.They struggle with the everyday things, due to a previous mis-diagnosis or lack of holistic treatment.I seek to listen and take the time needed to fully understand those struggling with ADHD, grief processing, depression, trauma, anxiety or PTSD. Some clients may experience psychosis, or suffer from a personality disorder, or more likely a combination of some of the above. I believe whole body wellness, spirituality, and the mind- body connection are as important as pharmaceutical remedies. If you need to be truly heard, let’s talk.
I am passionate about helping those most in need.Many of my clients have not felt heard in the past.They struggle with the everyday things, due to a previous mis-diagnosis or lack of holistic treatment.I seek to listen and take the time needed to fully understand those struggling with ADHD, grief processing, depression, trauma, anxiety or PTSD. Some clients may experience psychosis, or suffer from a personality disorder, or more likely a combination of some of the above. I believe whole body wellness, spirituality, and the mind- body connection are as important as pharmaceutical remedies. If you need to be truly heard, let’s talk.
(765) 754-4740 View (765) 754-4740
Photo of Nubia McVey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Nubia McVey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Don't just settle for any generic treatment center. Indiana Center for Recovery has a reputation for the most advanced addiction and mental health care in the state — with 10 locations and hundreds of positive reviews online.
Don't just settle for any generic treatment center. Indiana Center for Recovery has a reputation for the most advanced addiction and mental health care in the state — with 10 locations and hundreds of positive reviews online.
(765) 679-6071 View (765) 679-6071
Photo of Alicia Ann Elliott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS
Alicia Ann Elliott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS
Columbia City, IN 46725
Mental health wellness is a goal I’ve helped my patients achieve the entirety of my career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist (PMHCNS). We all seek emotional wellness. We are at different places on that journey. We all want to be heard. I hear you. It's not easy to ask for help, but I am here to help you. I offer medication services to help as one option. Come see me.
Mental health wellness is a goal I’ve helped my patients achieve the entirety of my career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist (PMHCNS). We all seek emotional wellness. We are at different places on that journey. We all want to be heard. I hear you. It's not easy to ask for help, but I am here to help you. I offer medication services to help as one option. Come see me.
(260) 888-3515 View (260) 888-3515
Photo of Lindsay Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Lindsay Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Lindsay. 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. My ideal client 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! I am the owner of Mending Minds. If I can not take you on as a client, we have several PMHNPs that are taking clients and would love to help.
Hello! My name is Lindsay. 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. My ideal client 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! I am the owner of Mending Minds. If I can not take you on as a client, we have several PMHNPs that are taking clients and would love to help.
(317) 620-8394 View (317) 620-8394
Photo of Conner Buck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Conner Buck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. I treat a variety of mental health diagnoses in individuals ages 6 and older. I believe in creating a safe and collaborative space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. I am especially committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. I offer both in-person and telehealth services, insurance permitting.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. I treat a variety of mental health diagnoses in individuals ages 6 and older. I believe in creating a safe and collaborative space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. I am especially committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. I offer both in-person and telehealth services, insurance permitting.
(765) 441-7397 View (765) 441-7397
Photo of Delaney Baumann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Delaney Baumann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46815
Motherhood is a unique journey where life's many challenges and joys are faced. If you have experienced a change in your mental health during pregnancy or postpartum, you are not alone. One in five women experience anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders during or after pregnancy. Are you feeling overwhelmed since the birth of your baby, struggling with constant worry, or having a hard time finding joy in your new role as a mom? We'd love the opportunity to support you in this season. I am a trauma and eating disorder informed provider & have experience working with clients experiencing PTSD & eating disorders.
Motherhood is a unique journey where life's many challenges and joys are faced. If you have experienced a change in your mental health during pregnancy or postpartum, you are not alone. One in five women experience anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders during or after pregnancy. Are you feeling overwhelmed since the birth of your baby, struggling with constant worry, or having a hard time finding joy in your new role as a mom? We'd love the opportunity to support you in this season. I am a trauma and eating disorder informed provider & have experience working with clients experiencing PTSD & eating disorders.
(260) 368-3227 View (260) 368-3227
Photo of Latoya Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Latoya Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use. Many patients come feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with past treatment and are looking for real support. I provide compassionate, evidence-based medication management, taking time to understand each patient and create a personalized plan. My goal is to help you feel heard, gain stability, and move forward with confidence.
I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use. Many patients come feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with past treatment and are looking for real support. I provide compassionate, evidence-based medication management, taking time to understand each patient and create a personalized plan. My goal is to help you feel heard, gain stability, and move forward with confidence.
(317) 743-7586 View (317) 743-7586
Photo of Jenna L Shock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN Ed, APRN, PMHNP
Jenna L Shock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN Ed, APRN, PMHNP
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and therapy services. My office is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issues you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate your path.
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and therapy services. My office is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issues you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate your path.
(260) 508-5723 View (260) 508-5723
Photo of Jessica Walsh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessica Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Offering ADHD testing Fort Wayne & ADHD testing Lafayette. I often have same-week appointments. Welcome to a highly personalized, accessible, and affordable psychiatric practice. Our priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. My intent to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. I use evidence-based supplements if warranted. Treatment goals most often met include emotional healing, maximal symptom relief, & improvement in daily functioning. Easy scheduling online.
Offering ADHD testing Fort Wayne & ADHD testing Lafayette. I often have same-week appointments. Welcome to a highly personalized, accessible, and affordable psychiatric practice. Our priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. My intent to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. I use evidence-based supplements if warranted. Treatment goals most often met include emotional healing, maximal symptom relief, & improvement in daily functioning. Easy scheduling online.
(317) 953-8344 View (317) 953-8344
Photo of Alana Urness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Alana Urness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Fort Wayne, IN 46805
I stumbled into the mental health field by accident and has never looked back. When you know, you know! Since earning my nursing degree in 2010, I have had the privilege of providing care to those in the corrections, family medicine, internal medicine, inpatient mental health, and outpatient mental health settings. I completed my doctorate in 2016 and my post-graduate mental health certification in 2024. I work with children 6+, adolescents, and adults treating a variety of mental health conditions.
I stumbled into the mental health field by accident and has never looked back. When you know, you know! Since earning my nursing degree in 2010, I have had the privilege of providing care to those in the corrections, family medicine, internal medicine, inpatient mental health, and outpatient mental health settings. I completed my doctorate in 2016 and my post-graduate mental health certification in 2024. I work with children 6+, adolescents, and adults treating a variety of mental health conditions.
(260) 204-8860 View (260) 204-8860
Photo of Kimberly Bernacki - Ambiente Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Ambiente Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management via telehealth in Ohio, Indiana, and Massachusetts. I work with adults and adolescents, with a special focus on navigating stress, anxiety, depression, mood instability, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, life transitions, anger and irritability. In-person appointments are also available at my office in Granville, Ohio.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management via telehealth in Ohio, Indiana, and Massachusetts. I work with adults and adolescents, with a special focus on navigating stress, anxiety, depression, mood instability, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, life transitions, anger and irritability. In-person appointments are also available at my office in Granville, Ohio.
(740) 247-5849 View (740) 247-5849
Photo of Jessica Walsh - IN Focus First, Psychiatry Simplified., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
IN Focus First, Psychiatry Simplified.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
We often have next-day and evening appointment availability for ADHD testing in Fort Wayne. Licensed to diagnose, consult and prescribe across Indiana. IN Focus First provides ADHD testing, anxiety, depression, bipolar, women's mental health, and medication management. Led by Jessica Walsh, PMHNP. Patients can expect a partnership in developing a highly personalized treatment plan towards achieving maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, & overall improvement in daily functioning. Check our our website and sign up to see Jessica today!
We often have next-day and evening appointment availability for ADHD testing in Fort Wayne. Licensed to diagnose, consult and prescribe across Indiana. IN Focus First provides ADHD testing, anxiety, depression, bipolar, women's mental health, and medication management. Led by Jessica Walsh, PMHNP. Patients can expect a partnership in developing a highly personalized treatment plan towards achieving maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, & overall improvement in daily functioning. Check our our website and sign up to see Jessica today!
(812) 370-8112 View (812) 370-8112
Photo of Sean Thomas Goddard - Viking Psychiatry & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Viking Psychiatry & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Our ideal client is likely someone who feels stuck—struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mood disorders that haven’t responded to traditional treatments. They may feel like they’ve tried everything but still experience persistent symptoms that hold them back from living a fulfilling life. This person is not just looking for relief but for hope—a way to break through the emotional and mental barriers that have kept them from feeling like themselves for too long. They may feel disconnected from the people around them, drained of energy, and overwhelmed by daily life. They might be grappling with unresolved trauma or ch
Our ideal client is likely someone who feels stuck—struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mood disorders that haven’t responded to traditional treatments. They may feel like they’ve tried everything but still experience persistent symptoms that hold them back from living a fulfilling life. This person is not just looking for relief but for hope—a way to break through the emotional and mental barriers that have kept them from feeling like themselves for too long. They may feel disconnected from the people around them, drained of energy, and overwhelmed by daily life. They might be grappling with unresolved trauma or ch
(260) 217-5360 View (260) 217-5360
Photo of René M. Phillippe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
René M. Phillippe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
I am a nurse practitioner with expertise in adult primary care and mental health, holding a MSN in Primary Care and a Post-Master's PMHNP certificate from Indiana Wesleyan University. I bring a comprehensive approach to my care and am dedicated to delivering advanced treatments to Allen County and the surrounding community. I prioritize building trust and fostering collaborative relationships with my patients, providing them the support they need to improve their mental wellness.
I am a nurse practitioner with expertise in adult primary care and mental health, holding a MSN in Primary Care and a Post-Master's PMHNP certificate from Indiana Wesleyan University. I bring a comprehensive approach to my care and am dedicated to delivering advanced treatments to Allen County and the surrounding community. I prioritize building trust and fostering collaborative relationships with my patients, providing them the support they need to improve their mental wellness.
(260) 833-7014 View (260) 833-7014
Photo of Heather Bloomfield - Summit Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Summit Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Fort Wayne, IN 46807
Dr. Heather Bloomfield, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice–prepared, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluations and evidence-based medication management for adults and adolescents. Her care is thoughtful, collaborative, and intentionally unhurried.
Dr. Heather Bloomfield, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice–prepared, board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluations and evidence-based medication management for adults and adolescents. Her care is thoughtful, collaborative, and intentionally unhurried.
(260) 217-5470 View (260) 217-5470
Photo of JESSICA MARIE HUGHES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
JESSICA MARIE HUGHES
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Jessica cares for individuals from all walks of life, ranging from ages 12 to 99+.
Jessica cares for individuals from all walks of life, ranging from ages 12 to 99+.
(260) 560-2157 View (260) 560-2157
Photo of Jenna Shock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jenna Shock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
View

See more therapy options for 46750

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 46750

< 10

Psychiatrists in 46750 who prioritize treating:

100% Eating Disorders
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Anger Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% 1199SEIU
100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 46750 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 46750?

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.