Psychiatrists in 47714

Photo of Dr. Neil Jariwala - Better Behavioral Evansville, Psychiatrist, MD
Better Behavioral Evansville
Psychiatrist, MD
Evansville, IN 47714
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, mood symptoms, or trauma who feels overwhelmed, misunderstood, or uncertain about their treatment options, especially when physical and mental health challenges overlap. They are looking for a psychiatrist who listens closely, explains clearly, and partners with them to find a plan that feels safe, effective, and personalized. They want clarity about their symptoms, confidence in their medications, and practical tools that help them feel more grounded, stable, and present in their daily lives.
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, mood symptoms, or trauma who feels overwhelmed, misunderstood, or uncertain about their treatment options, especially when physical and mental health challenges overlap. They are looking for a psychiatrist who listens closely, explains clearly, and partners with them to find a plan that feels safe, effective, and personalized. They want clarity about their symptoms, confidence in their medications, and practical tools that help them feel more grounded, stable, and present in their daily lives.
(812) 718-4312 View (812) 718-4312
Photo of Emily Kellner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Emily Kellner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Emily offers particular expertise in managing complex conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Her clinical approach is grounded in creating a safe, judgment-free space where patients feel heard and supported. Emily frequently integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness strategies into her medication management services, helping individuals gain practical tools to manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.Emily offers particular expertise in managing complex conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Her clinical approach is grounded in creating a safe, judgment-free space
Emily offers particular expertise in managing complex conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Her clinical approach is grounded in creating a safe, judgment-free space where patients feel heard and supported. Emily frequently integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness strategies into her medication management services, helping individuals gain practical tools to manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.Emily offers particular expertise in managing complex conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Her clinical approach is grounded in creating a safe, judgment-free space
(812) 608-3126 View (812) 608-3126
Photo of Latoya Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Latoya Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
Your treatment here goes beyond traditional psychiatry — including GeneSight testing to match medications to your unique DNA. No traditional trail-and-error process! You can feel better, faster!
Your treatment here goes beyond traditional psychiatry — including GeneSight testing to match medications to your unique DNA. No traditional trail-and-error process! You can feel better, faster!
(812) 505-4096 View (812) 505-4096
Meagan Althoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Serves Area
Meagan Althoff treats patients aged 12 + years old. Meagan Althoff is a board certified family nurse practitioner. She earned her associates degree from Wabash Valley College and received her undergraduate and masters degree in nursing from the University of Southern Indiana. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, which is the second largest nursing organization in the world. She was also a qualifier for the Presidents Medal at the University of Southern Indiana.
Meagan Althoff treats patients aged 12 + years old. Meagan Althoff is a board certified family nurse practitioner. She earned her associates degree from Wabash Valley College and received her undergraduate and masters degree in nursing from the University of Southern Indiana. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, which is the second largest nursing organization in the world. She was also a qualifier for the Presidents Medal at the University of Southern Indiana.
(812) 892-2214 View (812) 892-2214
Photo of Stephanie Carson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, NP
Stephanie Carson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, NP
Serves Area
Stephanie earned her Post-Master’s PMHNP degree from Walden University with a 4.0 GPA and her PMHNP certification from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB). She also holds a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Southern Indiana with a 3.934 GPA and is a certified FNP. Her prior roles include managing health and wellness centers and serving as an inpatient FNP on St. Vincent Hospital’s adult mental health unit. Patients praise Stephanie’s expertise, warmth, and attentiveness, often noting her ability to make them feel heard and valued.
Stephanie earned her Post-Master’s PMHNP degree from Walden University with a 4.0 GPA and her PMHNP certification from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB). She also holds a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Southern Indiana with a 3.934 GPA and is a certified FNP. Her prior roles include managing health and wellness centers and serving as an inpatient FNP on St. Vincent Hospital’s adult mental health unit. Patients praise Stephanie’s expertise, warmth, and attentiveness, often noting her ability to make them feel heard and valued.
(812) 561-5130 View (812) 561-5130
Photo of Dr. Ashraf Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ashraf Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Ashraf Ahmed is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 1999. He graduated medical school in Egypt, had his residency in Sunny at Stonybrook, New York, and has a fellowship from Columbia University in Geriatric Psychiatry. Ashraf listens to the patient and creates a psychological profile and from there, they start – together – working on the issues that bother them and at the end aim for a state of peace and stability. Outside of work, Ashraf is a long-distance runner and enjoys chess and classic music.
Ashraf Ahmed is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 1999. He graduated medical school in Egypt, had his residency in Sunny at Stonybrook, New York, and has a fellowship from Columbia University in Geriatric Psychiatry. Ashraf listens to the patient and creates a psychological profile and from there, they start – together – working on the issues that bother them and at the end aim for a state of peace and stability. Outside of work, Ashraf is a long-distance runner and enjoys chess and classic music.
(812) 310-4912 View (812) 310-4912
Photo of Dr. David Gray, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. David Gray
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
David Gray is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 1994. He obtained his medical degree at the University of Kentucky. He completed his residency in psychiatry and internal medicine at West Virginia University. David believes that healing occurs when the practitioner’s ability to heal corresponds with the patient’s willingness to change. In his spare time, David enjoys reading and spending time with his family.
David Gray is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 1994. He obtained his medical degree at the University of Kentucky. He completed his residency in psychiatry and internal medicine at West Virginia University. David believes that healing occurs when the practitioner’s ability to heal corresponds with the patient’s willingness to change. In his spare time, David enjoys reading and spending time with his family.
(812) 906-5118 View (812) 906-5118
Photo of Rebecca Nance, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, NP
Rebecca Nance
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, NP
Serves Area
Rebecca Nance is an advanced practice nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience in nursing. She is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and a member of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She earned her undergraduate degree from Wabash Valley College, and her graduate degrees from Indiana Wesleyan University. She most recently earned her doctoral degree in nursing. Her previous experience includes inpatient hospitalist, palliative, hospice and primary care with a focus on mental health.
Rebecca Nance is an advanced practice nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience in nursing. She is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and a member of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She earned her undergraduate degree from Wabash Valley College, and her graduate degrees from Indiana Wesleyan University. She most recently earned her doctoral degree in nursing. Her previous experience includes inpatient hospitalist, palliative, hospice and primary care with a focus on mental health.
(812) 316-5617 View (812) 316-5617
LifeStance Health - Evansville
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(812) 732-0384 View (812) 732-0384

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Apryl Brown - Mental Health Purpose, Inc. , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, RNBC
Mental Health Purpose, Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, RNBC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Apryl Brown, PMHNP-BC (Psychiatric Medications w/Therapy) Apryl is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 30 years of seasoned experience, specializing in holistic, integrative care. Treating all ages (including teenagers), skipping corporate scripts and checkbox therapy to deliver person-centered education, empowerment, and genuine human care. Specializing in psychiatric medications, limited therapy, and perinatal mood disorders, Apryl blends evidence-based practices with a compassionate approach to treat mood, thought, & personality disorders. Approach: Holistic, integrative, and proudly benzodiazepine-free
Apryl Brown, PMHNP-BC (Psychiatric Medications w/Therapy) Apryl is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 30 years of seasoned experience, specializing in holistic, integrative care. Treating all ages (including teenagers), skipping corporate scripts and checkbox therapy to deliver person-centered education, empowerment, and genuine human care. Specializing in psychiatric medications, limited therapy, and perinatal mood disorders, Apryl blends evidence-based practices with a compassionate approach to treat mood, thought, & personality disorders. Approach: Holistic, integrative, and proudly benzodiazepine-free
(812) 706-3194 View (812) 706-3194
Photo of Heather Ackman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Heather Ackman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach to mental health is multimodal, incorporating medication management (when needed), psychotherapy, and personalized treatment plans tailored to help clients achieve their mental health goals. My passion lies in providing compassionate, non-judgmental, and comprehensive care for individuals facing mental health challenges. I am committed to fostering strong, empathetic relationships with my clients through respect and evidence-based practice.
My approach to mental health is multimodal, incorporating medication management (when needed), psychotherapy, and personalized treatment plans tailored to help clients achieve their mental health goals. My passion lies in providing compassionate, non-judgmental, and comprehensive care for individuals facing mental health challenges. I am committed to fostering strong, empathetic relationships with my clients through respect and evidence-based practice.
(618) 418-3760 View (618) 418-3760
Photo of Delaney Baumann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Delaney Baumann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Juan Cabrera, Psychiatrist, MD
Juan Cabrera
Psychiatrist, MD
Evansville, IN 47715
I am a private practice psychiatrist with 30 years of experience. I treat the adult and geriatric patients. My focus is Treatment Resistant Depression.
I am a private practice psychiatrist with 30 years of experience. I treat the adult and geriatric patients. My focus is Treatment Resistant Depression.
(812) 347-4697 View (812) 347-4697
Photo of Andrea Johnson-Farmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Andrea Johnson-Farmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Andrea and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Indiana. I'm passionate about helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and OCD. I also enjoy working with college and graduate students, supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and helping women navigate their mental health journey. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Andrea and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Indiana. I'm passionate about helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and OCD. I also enjoy working with college and graduate students, supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and helping women navigate their mental health journey. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(463) 293-8504 View (463) 293-8504
Photo of Sarah Franklin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Sarah Franklin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and currently accepting telehealth patients in Indiana for medication management, diagnostic assessment, and therapy. Our mental health is a complex system influenced by a variety of daily factors, and although everyone may have some of these factors in common, no one person experiences them the same. I use the “Patient Centered Model” to work alongside you the entire treatment process, because you are the expert of your experiences.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and currently accepting telehealth patients in Indiana for medication management, diagnostic assessment, and therapy. Our mental health is a complex system influenced by a variety of daily factors, and although everyone may have some of these factors in common, no one person experiences them the same. I use the “Patient Centered Model” to work alongside you the entire treatment process, because you are the expert of your experiences.
(765) 302-2315 View (765) 302-2315
Photo of Beth DeYoung, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Beth DeYoung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unlike yourself lately? You might be juggling work, relationships, health issues, or a big life change while trying to keep it together on the outside. I work with adults and older adults facing anxiety, depression, chronic health conditions, and everyday stress that slowly wears you down. Together, we’ll sort through what’s happening and help you feel more grounded, hopeful, and in control again.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unlike yourself lately? You might be juggling work, relationships, health issues, or a big life change while trying to keep it together on the outside. I work with adults and older adults facing anxiety, depression, chronic health conditions, and everyday stress that slowly wears you down. Together, we’ll sort through what’s happening and help you feel more grounded, hopeful, and in control again.
(502) 726-0430 View (502) 726-0430

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Amy Falkenstein, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Amy Falkenstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
3 Endorsed
Clarksville, IN 47129
Accepting new clients for medication management & therapy for in-person or virtually. Appointments available this week. The first step to change is always the most difficult but the most powerful!  Life can be overwhelming for women & new moms with pressures & demands leading to feelings of drowning, unworthy, burned out.  When we feel this way, we can have low self-esteem, disconnected, & unhappiness. Too many of us feel stuck in life, sad, lack of motivation, and lonely. New moms can feel overwhelmed with a new baby that leads to constant worry & depression. It is time to get reconnected with YOU-again by getting the support.
Accepting new clients for medication management & therapy for in-person or virtually. Appointments available this week. The first step to change is always the most difficult but the most powerful!  Life can be overwhelming for women & new moms with pressures & demands leading to feelings of drowning, unworthy, burned out.  When we feel this way, we can have low self-esteem, disconnected, & unhappiness. Too many of us feel stuck in life, sad, lack of motivation, and lonely. New moms can feel overwhelmed with a new baby that leads to constant worry & depression. It is time to get reconnected with YOU-again by getting the support.
(812) 613-6071 View (812) 613-6071
Photo of James Haven - Elemental Body and Mind LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Elemental Body and Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jeffersonville, IN 47130
James Haven, PMHNP, is a compassionate mental health provider with over 13 years of experience and a background in the military and as an active first responder. He works with individuals facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mood- and trauma-related concerns. James uses a holistic, client-driven approach, partnering with patients to create personalized treatment plans that respect their goals and support overall well-being.
James Haven, PMHNP, is a compassionate mental health provider with over 13 years of experience and a background in the military and as an active first responder. He works with individuals facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mood- and trauma-related concerns. James uses a holistic, client-driven approach, partnering with patients to create personalized treatment plans that respect their goals and support overall well-being.
(812) 419-2378 View (812) 419-2378
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Bloomington, IN 47408
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 Michael Kane, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Kane
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomington, IN 47403
Your treatment here goes beyond traditional psychiatry — including GeneSight testing to match medications to your unique DNA. No traditional trail-and-error process! You can feel better, faster!
Your treatment here goes beyond traditional psychiatry — including GeneSight testing to match medications to your unique DNA. No traditional trail-and-error process! You can feel better, faster!
(812) 301-8863 View (812) 301-8863

See more therapy options for 47714

Nearby Searches for 47714

See More Psychiatrists

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 47714

< 10

Psychiatrists in 47714 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
89% ADHD
89% Bipolar Disorder
89% Medication Management
56% Child

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Humana
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 47714 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

57% Female
43% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 47714?

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.