Psychiatrists in 47907

Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
West Lafayette, IN 47907
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.
(463) 220-4991 View (463) 220-4991
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
West Lafayette, IN 47907
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(463) 583-9878 View (463) 583-9878
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
West Lafayette, IN 47907
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(463) 252-3548 View (463) 252-3548
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
West Lafayette, IN 47907
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(463) 217-0414 View (463) 217-0414
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
West Lafayette, IN 47907
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(463) 219-5109 View (463) 219-5109
Photo of Tazia Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Tazia Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
West Lafayette, IN 47907
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, or mood disorders and is seeking support to regain control of their life. They may struggle with self-doubt, difficulty managing emotions, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to find personalized strategies for healing. Their goal is to build resilience, improve self-confidence, and create a healthier balance in life. They are ready to take steps toward healing and want guidance in navigating their journey.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, or mood disorders and is seeking support to regain control of their life. They may struggle with self-doubt, difficulty managing emotions, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to find personalized strategies for healing. Their goal is to build resilience, improve self-confidence, and create a healthier balance in life. They are ready to take steps toward healing and want guidance in navigating their journey.
(765) 523-8856 View (765) 523-8856
Photo of Brooke Peterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Brooke Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
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.
(317) 520-8904 View (317) 520-8904
Photo of Brett A Presley, Psychiatrist, MD
Brett A Presley
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(317) 699-7208 View (317) 699-7208
Photo of Jeremiah Ellingsworth - Indy ADHD, Psychiatrist, DO
Indy ADHD
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
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.
(317) 659-6251 View (317) 659-6251
Photo of Timothy Poquette, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Timothy Poquette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
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.
(463) 842-1318 View (463) 842-1318
Photo of Benjamin May, Psychiatrist, MD
Benjamin May
Psychiatrist, MD
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(317) 884-8636 View (317) 884-8636

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Amber Herman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amber Herman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat a wide variety of mental health issues for all ages. My goal is to ensure I work alongside the patient to ensure they are an active participant in their treatment and plan. I work with patients ranging from childhood to late adulthood. I most often work with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide a varied approach based on the patient's individual needs but may include behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, and biological approaches.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat a wide variety of mental health issues for all ages. My goal is to ensure I work alongside the patient to ensure they are an active participant in their treatment and plan. I work with patients ranging from childhood to late adulthood. I most often work with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide a varied approach based on the patient's individual needs but may include behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, and biological approaches.
(765) 204-5319 View (765) 204-5319
Photo of Renee Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Renee Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Renee Wilson, and I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) working with clients throughout the state of Indiana via telehealth. I use a functional and integrative approach to treat children and adults with various mental health conditions. I have found that using a combination of psychiatric medications, supplements, and therapy usually provides the best outcomes. My approach to providing mental healthcare is holistic and individualized. The effectiveness of psychiatric medications can vary in each person, so we will work together to find medications that work best for you.
Hello, my name is Renee Wilson, and I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) working with clients throughout the state of Indiana via telehealth. I use a functional and integrative approach to treat children and adults with various mental health conditions. I have found that using a combination of psychiatric medications, supplements, and therapy usually provides the best outcomes. My approach to providing mental healthcare is holistic and individualized. The effectiveness of psychiatric medications can vary in each person, so we will work together to find medications that work best for you.
(765) 727-5620 View (765) 727-5620
Photo of Kylee Slade - Afterglow Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Pmhnp
Afterglow Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Pmhnp
Lafayette, IN 47901
Welcome to Afterglow Wellness – Expert Medication Management for Mental Health & ADHD Whether you're struggling with focus and organization due to ADHD, dealing with the overwhelming effects of anxiety or depression, or needing support in managing mood disorders, we are here to help. Our goal is to provide thorough evaluations and ongoing medication management to ensure the right treatment approach for your unique needs.
Welcome to Afterglow Wellness – Expert Medication Management for Mental Health & ADHD Whether you're struggling with focus and organization due to ADHD, dealing with the overwhelming effects of anxiety or depression, or needing support in managing mood disorders, we are here to help. Our goal is to provide thorough evaluations and ongoing medication management to ensure the right treatment approach for your unique needs.
(765) 577-6374 View (765) 577-6374
Photo of Sara Spence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Sara Spence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
At The Serene Sanctuary, I help women take back control of their mental wellness through holistic coaching and personalized medication management. As a board-certified PMHNP with 10+ years of experience, I combine lifestyle strategies with compassionate care to support lasting transformation. Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, or ADHD, we’ll create a plan that empowers you to feel clear, grounded, and in charge of your life. Now accepting new clients via telehealth—book your free consultation today.
At The Serene Sanctuary, I help women take back control of their mental wellness through holistic coaching and personalized medication management. As a board-certified PMHNP with 10+ years of experience, I combine lifestyle strategies with compassionate care to support lasting transformation. Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, or ADHD, we’ll create a plan that empowers you to feel clear, grounded, and in charge of your life. Now accepting new clients via telehealth—book your free consultation today.
(463) 223-1223 View (463) 223-1223
Photo of Kim M Hizer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kim M Hizer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47905
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
(463) 282-6943 View (463) 282-6943
Photo of Cecilia Gichaba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cecilia Gichaba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I graduated from Indiana University School of Nursing in 2015 and received a Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2022. I typically work with adult patients and children age 12 and above struggling with Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar 1 and 11 disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Personality disorders, Behavioral issues in young Children, Dementia, Addiction due to substance use, and many more.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I graduated from Indiana University School of Nursing in 2015 and received a Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2022. I typically work with adult patients and children age 12 and above struggling with Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar 1 and 11 disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Personality disorders, Behavioral issues in young Children, Dementia, Addiction due to substance use, and many more.
(765) 305-5307 View (765) 305-5307
Photo of Memphis Sandoval, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Memphis Sandoval
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with various years of experience in the psychiatric field, specializing in the treatment of perinatal/postpartum mental health care, mood disorders, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, PTSD-related night terrors, gender identity, and through psychiatric assessment, medication management, and psychotherapy. With my vast experience in the medical field, I evaluate and consider my clients' overall health status when diagnosing and developing treatment plans.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with various years of experience in the psychiatric field, specializing in the treatment of perinatal/postpartum mental health care, mood disorders, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, PTSD-related night terrors, gender identity, and through psychiatric assessment, medication management, and psychotherapy. With my vast experience in the medical field, I evaluate and consider my clients' overall health status when diagnosing and developing treatment plans.
(765) 334-4338 View (765) 334-4338
Photo of Jennifer Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a double-boarded nurse practitioner in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. My extensive clinical background allows me to see the whole picture, not just the symptoms. I practice functional medicine psychiatry, and I will work to find the origin of your problem so we can solve it together—no Band-Aids here! I have also specialized in child/adolescent mental health for many years and am recognized by Riley’s Children Hospital for being a leader in the area. My approach to mental health begins with a detailed history of your life, from birth to the present.
I am a double-boarded nurse practitioner in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. My extensive clinical background allows me to see the whole picture, not just the symptoms. I practice functional medicine psychiatry, and I will work to find the origin of your problem so we can solve it together—no Band-Aids here! I have also specialized in child/adolescent mental health for many years and am recognized by Riley’s Children Hospital for being a leader in the area. My approach to mental health begins with a detailed history of your life, from birth to the present.
(765) 305-5622 View (765) 305-5622
Photo of Amber Phebus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Amber Phebus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
5 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47905
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.
(765) 739-3482 View (765) 739-3482

See more therapy options for 47907

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 47907

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 47907 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% ADHD
73% Medication Management
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% Trauma and PTSD
55% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 47907 see their clients

91% In Person and Online
9% Online Only

Gender breakdown

56% Female
44% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 47907?

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.