Psychiatrists in 47025

Ashlie Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Ashlie Collins, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in ADHD. Ashlie's personalized, patient-centered approach to care empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Ashlie offers tailored treatment plans and uses the most current evidence-based practices to address the complex interplay between physical and mental health. She creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Let Ashlie help you achieve your mental health goals.
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Ashlie Collins, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in ADHD. Ashlie's personalized, patient-centered approach to care empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Ashlie offers tailored treatment plans and uses the most current evidence-based practices to address the complex interplay between physical and mental health. She creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Let Ashlie help you achieve your mental health goals.

Cody Ernst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
If you're living in the Midwest and struggling with a serious mental illness that's making it difficult to work, keep up with school, and maintain healthy relationships, I'm here to help. As a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience, I understand the unique challenges facing individuals in the region and offer personalized treatment plans that address their specific needs and goals. You can rely on me if you want to feel heard, valued, and understood so you can safely share your thoughts and feelings while receiving excellent treatment.
If you're living in the Midwest and struggling with a serious mental illness that's making it difficult to work, keep up with school, and maintain healthy relationships, I'm here to help. As a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience, I understand the unique challenges facing individuals in the region and offer personalized treatment plans that address their specific needs and goals. You can rely on me if you want to feel heard, valued, and understood so you can safely share your thoughts and feelings while receiving excellent treatment.

Valerie Bath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.

Kristi Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
Having an serious mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.
Having an serious mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) I perform diagnostic assessment, medication management, and treatment of those with mental health disorders. I focus on individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and BPD, but have openings for any diagnosis. As someone with personal experience of having an eating disorder and BPD I know how hard it is to find providers understanding of the unique challenges faced by the population. I strive to make sure my patients are heard, and work with them to help get them the proper medication and treatment.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) I perform diagnostic assessment, medication management, and treatment of those with mental health disorders. I focus on individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and BPD, but have openings for any diagnosis. As someone with personal experience of having an eating disorder and BPD I know how hard it is to find providers understanding of the unique challenges faced by the population. I strive to make sure my patients are heard, and work with them to help get them the proper medication and treatment.

As a doctorally prepared Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to educate and empower patients to be active in their healthcare decisions. Rather than simply writing a prescription and sending you on your way; I aim to understand your priorities, past experiences, overall functioning, and goals. I am then able to offer a variety of evidence-based treatment options so that we can develop a plan as a team. We'll track symptoms and functioning before and throughout treatment to accelerate recovery and maintain remission.
As a doctorally prepared Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to educate and empower patients to be active in their healthcare decisions. Rather than simply writing a prescription and sending you on your way; I aim to understand your priorities, past experiences, overall functioning, and goals. I am then able to offer a variety of evidence-based treatment options so that we can develop a plan as a team. We'll track symptoms and functioning before and throughout treatment to accelerate recovery and maintain remission.
Online Psychiatrists

Jessica Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Personalized, Accessible, and Affordable. Evening and weekend availability. Easy online scheduling. My priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. Using a comprehensive and collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly individualized treatment plan and optimized medication strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to get to know you and understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Getting your mental health back on track shouldn't keep you waiting! Schedule online today.
Personalized, Accessible, and Affordable. Evening and weekend availability. Easy online scheduling. My priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. Using a comprehensive and collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly individualized treatment plan and optimized medication strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to get to know you and understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Getting your mental health back on track shouldn't keep you waiting! Schedule online today.

We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.

Lacy Pippin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.

If you or a loved one are suffering from OCD or an anxiety disorder, you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses, yet most sufferers do not have access to effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety, there is help. There are medication management options that have been shown to be effective and can be paired with evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques such CBT to maximize treatment effects.
If you or a loved one are suffering from OCD or an anxiety disorder, you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses, yet most sufferers do not have access to effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety, there is help. There are medication management options that have been shown to be effective and can be paired with evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques such CBT to maximize treatment effects.

I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.

IIPUC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, MBA
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Life is a challenge for all of us and many of us are doing our best to lead "normal" lives as we deal with the challenges of live. If you are having a little hiccup in life, feelings of uncertainty, uneasiness, anxiety, fear or just feeling down, you need someone who can feel your pain, someone you can connect with, & someone that will walk beside you instead of ahead of you. We are here to listen to you, help you see the beauty of living, & help you bloom into your true self. We prescribe Suboxone, ADHD medications & offer other services to improve your wellbeing. Today I'll give you hope, love, happiness! Please call
Life is a challenge for all of us and many of us are doing our best to lead "normal" lives as we deal with the challenges of live. If you are having a little hiccup in life, feelings of uncertainty, uneasiness, anxiety, fear or just feeling down, you need someone who can feel your pain, someone you can connect with, & someone that will walk beside you instead of ahead of you. We are here to listen to you, help you see the beauty of living, & help you bloom into your true self. We prescribe Suboxone, ADHD medications & offer other services to improve your wellbeing. Today I'll give you hope, love, happiness! Please call

Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Indiana and Kentucky since 2015.
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Indiana and Kentucky since 2015.

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.

Adjust Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037
We understand the frustrations that can come along with mental health treatment. Everything from “my provider doesn’t listen” to “I can’t afford this medication.” While we can’t solve all of the world’s problems in a single visit, we can guarantee that we put the patient first…ALWAYS. We are humbled to offer medication management services and also psychotherapy! Our newest therapist, CP, has immediate availability!
We understand the frustrations that can come along with mental health treatment. Everything from “my provider doesn’t listen” to “I can’t afford this medication.” While we can’t solve all of the world’s problems in a single visit, we can guarantee that we put the patient first…ALWAYS. We are humbled to offer medication management services and also psychotherapy! Our newest therapist, CP, has immediate availability!

It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.

Ronda Owens-Dehmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.

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.

Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with 20 years experience. You don't have to struggle alone I am here to help! You will have my undivided attention, patience and compassion. My practice philosophy is 'Holistic,' avoid symptom chasing- get to the underlying problem. If you're tired of trying many different treatments with no results and feel as though no one is listening, you have come to the right place! Together, we will formulate a treatment plan specific to your individual needs.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with 20 years experience. You don't have to struggle alone I am here to help! You will have my undivided attention, patience and compassion. My practice philosophy is 'Holistic,' avoid symptom chasing- get to the underlying problem. If you're tired of trying many different treatments with no results and feel as though no one is listening, you have come to the right place! Together, we will formulate a treatment plan specific to your individual needs.

I have years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various psychiatric diagnosis. I treat depression, anxiety, and mood disorders via my virtual platform. I do not treat ADHD/ADD symptoms, substance abuse, or prescribe any controlled substances via my virtual practice. Intake appointments generally take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour. I will complete a psychiatric evaluation and provide a diagnosis (if appropriate). We will then discuss a treatment plan and follow up. We will determine the need for medication management and individual therapy based on symptoms and needs.
I have years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various psychiatric diagnosis. I treat depression, anxiety, and mood disorders via my virtual platform. I do not treat ADHD/ADD symptoms, substance abuse, or prescribe any controlled substances via my virtual practice. Intake appointments generally take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour. I will complete a psychiatric evaluation and provide a diagnosis (if appropriate). We will then discuss a treatment plan and follow up. We will determine the need for medication management and individual therapy based on symptoms and needs.
See more therapy options for 47025
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 47025
< 10
Psychiatrists in 47025 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Medicaid |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | United Medical Resources (UMR) |
How Psychiatrists in 47025 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 47025?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.