Psychiatrists in 47905
I believe every woman deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood when it comes to her mental and physical health. Too often, women fall through the cracks of our healthcare system, leaving questions unanswered and underlying causes overlooked.
My approach is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and partnership—I want to help you uncover what’s really affecting your well-being and support you in finding sustainable solutions. I don’t always jump straight to medication; instead, I focus on understanding your unique story, identifying the root causes of your concerns, and guiding you toward options that honor your goals and lifestyle.
I believe every woman deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood when it comes to her mental and physical health. Too often, women fall through the cracks of our healthcare system, leaving questions unanswered and underlying causes overlooked.
My approach is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and partnership—I want to help you uncover what’s really affecting your well-being and support you in finding sustainable solutions. I don’t always jump straight to medication; instead, I focus on understanding your unique story, identifying the root causes of your concerns, and guiding you toward options that honor your goals and lifestyle.
Hello! My name is Jennifer Wood and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I am very excited to be opening up a private practice in my home town of Lafayette, Indiana. I plan to offer great compassion and communication to my clients while taking pride in being on your team. This will allow us to collaborate together in creating the best treatment plan that works for YOU! . I will be right beside you for utmost encouragement throughout your life journey. My ideal patient is one who is willing to take the first steps into changing, allowing them to start living their best life!
Hello! My name is Jennifer Wood and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I am very excited to be opening up a private practice in my home town of Lafayette, Indiana. I plan to offer great compassion and communication to my clients while taking pride in being on your team. This will allow us to collaborate together in creating the best treatment plan that works for YOU! . I will be right beside you for utmost encouragement throughout your life journey. My ideal patient is one who is willing to take the first steps into changing, allowing them to start living their best life!
I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in thoughtful, evidence-based medication management for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and complex medication concerns. I work with children (10+), teens, college students, and adults. Many clients come when medications haven’t worked as expected, side effects occur, or they want a deeper understanding of symptoms. I take a whole-person approach and often review labs, hormones, and other medical factors that may influence mood, focus, energy, and sleep. I especially enjoy working with college students and women navigating hormonal changes like perimenopause.
I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in thoughtful, evidence-based medication management for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and complex medication concerns. I work with children (10+), teens, college students, and adults. Many clients come when medications haven’t worked as expected, side effects occur, or they want a deeper understanding of symptoms. I take a whole-person approach and often review labs, hormones, and other medical factors that may influence mood, focus, energy, and sleep. I especially enjoy working with college students and women navigating hormonal changes like perimenopause.
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Hello! My name is Bri, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I work with people ages 5 and up in the greater Lafayette and Indianapolis areas. Mental health is essential to overall wellbeing, and I want you to feel empowered and informed to make decisions about your care.
Hello! My name is Bri, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I work with people ages 5 and up in the greater Lafayette and Indianapolis areas. Mental health is essential to overall wellbeing, and I want you to feel empowered and informed to make decisions about your care.
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.
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.
Phebus Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
6 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47905
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I’m Amber, and I’m excited to get to know you! I became a nurse in 2008, following my service in the U.S. Navy. I transitioned into mental health in 2016 after my own mental health struggles, and became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2022 after earning my master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. The provider-patient relationship is key to success in mental health care, and I believe we should work together to achieve your goals. I take pride in being compassionate and understanding of your unique situation, and I'm committed to developing a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs.
Hello, I’m Amber, and I’m excited to get to know you! I became a nurse in 2008, following my service in the U.S. Navy. I transitioned into mental health in 2016 after my own mental health struggles, and became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2022 after earning my master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. The provider-patient relationship is key to success in mental health care, and I believe we should work together to achieve your goals. I take pride in being compassionate and understanding of your unique situation, and I'm committed to developing a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs.
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 28 years of experience in healthcare and 5 years of experience as a nurse practitioner. Throughout my career, I’ve developed a deep commitment to mental health and specialize in treating Depression, PTSD, and Anxiety. I also have particular expertise in the non-stimulant management of ADHD and Anxiety. My goal is always to provide care that’s tailored to each person’s unique needs and circumstances.
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 28 years of experience in healthcare and 5 years of experience as a nurse practitioner. Throughout my career, I’ve developed a deep commitment to mental health and specialize in treating Depression, PTSD, and Anxiety. I also have particular expertise in the non-stimulant management of ADHD and Anxiety. My goal is always to provide care that’s tailored to each person’s unique needs and circumstances.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Are you a high-functioning adult with ADHD? If so, you know how untreated ADHD can significantly impact your life. You may struggle with focus, procrastination, time management, and organization. You may also feel overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed. At Indy ADHD, we understand. Dr. Ellingsworth offers an accessible, understanding, and specialized care model for adults with ADHD. We use cutting-edge technologies and research to provide tailored treatment plans that take into account your unique needs. Dr. Ellingsworth offers Telehealth appointments and transparent pricing, so you can get the care you need without breaking the bank.
Are you a high-functioning adult with ADHD? If so, you know how untreated ADHD can significantly impact your life. You may struggle with focus, procrastination, time management, and organization. You may also feel overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed. At Indy ADHD, we understand. Dr. Ellingsworth offers an accessible, understanding, and specialized care model for adults with ADHD. We use cutting-edge technologies and research to provide tailored treatment plans that take into account your unique needs. Dr. Ellingsworth offers Telehealth appointments and transparent pricing, so you can get the care you need without breaking the bank.
IN Focus First, Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47906
Next-day appointments and evening appointments are often available. Specializing in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Neurodivergent, Mood, and OCD we are able to assess, diagnose, & prescribe evidence-based medication & supplements as warranted. Through collaboration you and I will develop a highly personalized treatment plan focused on achieving maximal symptom relief. I will 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. Schedule with Jessica Walsh at IN Focus First, Psychiatry Simplified online today.
Next-day appointments and evening appointments are often available. Specializing in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Neurodivergent, Mood, and OCD we are able to assess, diagnose, & prescribe evidence-based medication & supplements as warranted. Through collaboration you and I will develop a highly personalized treatment plan focused on achieving maximal symptom relief. I will 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. Schedule with Jessica Walsh at IN Focus First, Psychiatry Simplified online today.
I help patients across the lifespan to understand how their experiences and situations have shaped them into the unique individuals they are today.
My approach is warm, validating, and practical—combining medication management, education, and skills you can actually use. I focus on understanding your story, not just treating your symptoms.
I help patients across the lifespan to understand how their experiences and situations have shaped them into the unique individuals they are today.
My approach is warm, validating, and practical—combining medication management, education, and skills you can actually use. I focus on understanding your story, not just treating your symptoms.
At my private practice, I greatly enjoy helping people dealing with mental health issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I also specialize in victims of narcissistic abuse. We'll focus as a team on what YOU want to get out of treatment. I view my primary role as an educator. We will spend a lot of time sharing information that will guide us in developing your individualized treatment plan. My goals for you are the goals you set for yourself. I offer both medication management and individual psychotherapy, with emphasis on healthy lifestyle activities. I serve young adults to seniors.
At my private practice, I greatly enjoy helping people dealing with mental health issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I also specialize in victims of narcissistic abuse. We'll focus as a team on what YOU want to get out of treatment. I view my primary role as an educator. We will spend a lot of time sharing information that will guide us in developing your individualized treatment plan. My goals for you are the goals you set for yourself. I offer both medication management and individual psychotherapy, with emphasis on healthy lifestyle activities. I serve young adults to seniors.
I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.
I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Whether seeking help for the first time or looking for a new provider, taking that step can feel daunting. You don't have to face this alone—and you won't encounter judgment or stigma here.
Maybe you're struggling with racing thoughts, persistent sadness, or anxiety affecting your daily life. Perhaps you're having trouble focusing, managing emotions, or finding motivation for things you once enjoyed. Or maybe you're dealing with past trauma, substance use challenges, or simply don't feel like yourself anymore.
You deserve support—and reaching out is a sign of strength. I'm here to help
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Whether seeking help for the first time or looking for a new provider, taking that step can feel daunting. You don't have to face this alone—and you won't encounter judgment or stigma here.
Maybe you're struggling with racing thoughts, persistent sadness, or anxiety affecting your daily life. Perhaps you're having trouble focusing, managing emotions, or finding motivation for things you once enjoyed. Or maybe you're dealing with past trauma, substance use challenges, or simply don't feel like yourself anymore.
You deserve support—and reaching out is a sign of strength. I'm here to help
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.
Welcome to a highly personalized, accessible, compassionate, 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 offer integrative psychiaty services. This means I do not restrict treatment to only medications. I will use evidence-based supplements if warranted. Treatment goals most often met include emotional healing, maximal symptom relief, and improvement in daily functioning. Check out our website and sign up to see Jessica today!
Welcome to a highly personalized, accessible, compassionate, 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 offer integrative psychiaty services. This means I do not restrict treatment to only medications. I will use evidence-based supplements if warranted. Treatment goals most often met include emotional healing, maximal symptom relief, and improvement in daily functioning. Check out our website and sign up to see Jessica today!
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have six years experience providing medication management services, with a specific interest in treating ADHD. I utilize a non-judgmental, open-minded approach to care. I look forward to working with you to create an individualized plan that meets your mental health care needs.
Please note- If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself, please call 9-8-8 or visit an emergency room
(For uninsured patients: initial $150; follow-up $100)
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have six years experience providing medication management services, with a specific interest in treating ADHD. I utilize a non-judgmental, open-minded approach to care. I look forward to working with you to create an individualized plan that meets your mental health care needs.
Please note- If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself, please call 9-8-8 or visit an emergency room
(For uninsured patients: initial $150; follow-up $100)
Hello, my name is Marvelyn Thompson, and I am a licensed Nurse Practitioner holding a Doctorate Degree specializing in mental health care. My goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to your unique needs, focusing on Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and many more, helping you achieve lasting well-being. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to better mental health. My approach to care is centered on providing compassionate, individualized support that focuses on the unique needs and goals of each patient.
Hello, my name is Marvelyn Thompson, and I am a licensed Nurse Practitioner holding a Doctorate Degree specializing in mental health care. My goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to your unique needs, focusing on Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and many more, helping you achieve lasting well-being. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to better mental health. My approach to care is centered on providing compassionate, individualized support that focuses on the unique needs and goals of each patient.
See more therapy options for 47905
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 47905
< 10
Psychiatrists in 47905 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Depression |
| 89% | ADHD |
| 89% | Anxiety |
| 89% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 67% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 67% | Medication Management |
| 56% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 47905 see their clients
| 78% | In Person and Online | |
| 22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 47905?
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.


