Psychiatrists in 48042

My vision as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to contribute to a healthcare system that prioritizes mental well-being as much as physical health. I am eager to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address the diverse needs of clients. I am particularly passionate about working with underserved populations, where access to mental health services can be limited.
My vision as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to contribute to a healthcare system that prioritizes mental well-being as much as physical health. I am eager to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address the diverse needs of clients. I am particularly passionate about working with underserved populations, where access to mental health services can be limited.

VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (313) 217-3121 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (313) 217-3121 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Marisa Karcz Claysen is a certified physician assistant with an integrative and holistic approach to mental health treatment. She has over ten years of experience working in psychiatry and has earned a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with a Master’s of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2014. She received her Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in Brain, Behavior and Cognitive Science with a minor in Medical Anthropology.
Marisa Karcz Claysen is a certified physician assistant with an integrative and holistic approach to mental health treatment. She has over ten years of experience working in psychiatry and has earned a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with a Master’s of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2014. She received her Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in Brain, Behavior and Cognitive Science with a minor in Medical Anthropology.

Book an appointment today, click the website link —> I treat people who experience anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and other MH concerns. These issues only make maintaining your performance at work or in relationships that much more difficult. I integrate my training in psychotherapy into your appointment in an effort to not only understand you better, but to help you achieve your goals.
I am a fee for service psychiatrist and do not work with insurance. I accept HSA/FSA, Credit Card, and ACH transfer as forms of payment. A superbill can be provided for OON benefits..
Book an appointment today, click the website link —> I treat people who experience anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and other MH concerns. These issues only make maintaining your performance at work or in relationships that much more difficult. I integrate my training in psychotherapy into your appointment in an effort to not only understand you better, but to help you achieve your goals.
I am a fee for service psychiatrist and do not work with insurance. I accept HSA/FSA, Credit Card, and ACH transfer as forms of payment. A superbill can be provided for OON benefits..

Hello, and thank you for considering me as a provider! I worked as a primary care provider for nearly a decade before obtaining my psychiatric training at Johns Hopkins University. While living in Nashville, TN, I had the privilege of serving a diverse patient population, mainly providing care to the Latino community as a fluent Spanish speaker. My growing family returned to Michigan in 2021 so our children could be raised around their Anishinaabe culture.
Hello, and thank you for considering me as a provider! I worked as a primary care provider for nearly a decade before obtaining my psychiatric training at Johns Hopkins University. While living in Nashville, TN, I had the privilege of serving a diverse patient population, mainly providing care to the Latino community as a fluent Spanish speaker. My growing family returned to Michigan in 2021 so our children could be raised around their Anishinaabe culture.

We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez, NP and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and we collaborate with our counseling specialists to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited and we can't work with patients in counseling with other providers or new patients who need medication for ADHD.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez, NP and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and we collaborate with our counseling specialists to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited and we can't work with patients in counseling with other providers or new patients who need medication for ADHD.

Hello and welcome! My name is Dr. Sarah DeLeon. I am a licensed psychiatrist who is board-certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. In practice since 2019, I believe in nurturing both the mind and the body for true psychiatric healing. My approach uses both evidence-based psychiatric principles combined with complementary therapies, offering personalized care for your specific needs. My ideal patient is someone whose goals are to strive for emotional stability, self-understanding, and effective coping strategies through an integrative treatment approach.
Hello and welcome! My name is Dr. Sarah DeLeon. I am a licensed psychiatrist who is board-certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. In practice since 2019, I believe in nurturing both the mind and the body for true psychiatric healing. My approach uses both evidence-based psychiatric principles combined with complementary therapies, offering personalized care for your specific needs. My ideal patient is someone whose goals are to strive for emotional stability, self-understanding, and effective coping strategies through an integrative treatment approach.

Kristen Munyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
I am a dually trained (Family and Psychiatric Mental Health) Nurse Practitioner that is committed to providing evidence based, compassionate care for clients across the lifespan. At Start My Wellness, I specialize in medication management for children and women’s health clients, providing service to clients experiencing a wide spectrum of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD (diagnosis and treatment), pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, post-partum mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, and bi-polar disorders.
I am a dually trained (Family and Psychiatric Mental Health) Nurse Practitioner that is committed to providing evidence based, compassionate care for clients across the lifespan. At Start My Wellness, I specialize in medication management for children and women’s health clients, providing service to clients experiencing a wide spectrum of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD (diagnosis and treatment), pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, post-partum mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, and bi-polar disorders.

Gail Elder-Battle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lathrup Village, MI 48076
Hi, I'm Gail, a double board-certified nurse practitioner with a passion for connecting and creating positive changes. I understand how daunting seeking help for mental health can be, and I'm here to make it easier and more understandable. I focus on a holistic approach that considers your entire well-being. Together, we’ll develop a plan that truly nurtures your long-term mental health goals. My approach ensures we consider every aspect of your life, crafting personalized, supportive treatments to improve your overall well-being.
Hi, I'm Gail, a double board-certified nurse practitioner with a passion for connecting and creating positive changes. I understand how daunting seeking help for mental health can be, and I'm here to make it easier and more understandable. I focus on a holistic approach that considers your entire well-being. Together, we’ll develop a plan that truly nurtures your long-term mental health goals. My approach ensures we consider every aspect of your life, crafting personalized, supportive treatments to improve your overall well-being.

Dr. Atul C. Shah, MD is a Practicing and Licensed Physician in the Metro-Detroit area as psychiatrist and general practitioner, serving a diverse range of patients with compassion, respect, and dignity. Dr. Shah has evaluated and treated patients in his practice for over 30 years both in Michigan as well as India.
Dr. Atul C. Shah, MD is a Practicing and Licensed Physician in the Metro-Detroit area as psychiatrist and general practitioner, serving a diverse range of patients with compassion, respect, and dignity. Dr. Shah has evaluated and treated patients in his practice for over 30 years both in Michigan as well as India.

I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my master’s degree in Nursing Science from Wayne State University. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 14 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, psychosis and ADHD. Foundation thoughts is currently open on Monday evenings and Saturdays offering medication management and therapy. Medication management is offered for various mental health disorders and substance abuse problems. The goal of the company is directed towards a holistic care.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my master’s degree in Nursing Science from Wayne State University. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 14 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, psychosis and ADHD. Foundation thoughts is currently open on Monday evenings and Saturdays offering medication management and therapy. Medication management is offered for various mental health disorders and substance abuse problems. The goal of the company is directed towards a holistic care.

Dr. Marissa DiMambro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48226
I completed my Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) and became board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2023. I pride myself on my empathy towards others. In my role as a prescriber, I strive to look at my relationship with clients as a teammate, not an authority figure. I am passionate about comprehensive treatment approach. I completed my doctoral project with young adults in a group therapy setting managing symptoms of depression to help clients holistically. I look forward to gaining therapeutic relationships with clients of all ages to use medication as a tool for their mental health.
I completed my Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) and became board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2023. I pride myself on my empathy towards others. In my role as a prescriber, I strive to look at my relationship with clients as a teammate, not an authority figure. I am passionate about comprehensive treatment approach. I completed my doctoral project with young adults in a group therapy setting managing symptoms of depression to help clients holistically. I look forward to gaining therapeutic relationships with clients of all ages to use medication as a tool for their mental health.

About me: I am NCCPA Board-Certified Physician Assistant. I received her Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State University and graduated in 2022 with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Before joining the Michigan Advanced Psychiatry team, I worked in hospital medicine.
About me: I am NCCPA Board-Certified Physician Assistant. I received her Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State University and graduated in 2022 with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Before joining the Michigan Advanced Psychiatry team, I worked in hospital medicine.

Dr. Sarah DeLeon is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2019. She earned her MD at Wayne State University Medical School and completed her Adult General Psychiatry Residency at Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center. Dr. DeLeon believes in nurturing both mind and body for true psychiatric healing. Her approach combines evidencebased psychiatry with holistic complementary therapies, offering personalized care in order to help you relieve your symptoms and reclaim your life. Outside of work, Dr. DeLeon enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.
Dr. Sarah DeLeon is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2019. She earned her MD at Wayne State University Medical School and completed her Adult General Psychiatry Residency at Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center. Dr. DeLeon believes in nurturing both mind and body for true psychiatric healing. Her approach combines evidencebased psychiatry with holistic complementary therapies, offering personalized care in order to help you relieve your symptoms and reclaim your life. Outside of work, Dr. DeLeon enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.

About me: I am NCCPA Board-Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) at Michigan Advanced Psychiatry. I received dual Bachelor of Science degrees from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Wayne State University. I practiced for seven years in pediatric emergency medicine and behavioral health before finding her true calling in mental health.
About me: I am NCCPA Board-Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) at Michigan Advanced Psychiatry. I received dual Bachelor of Science degrees from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Wayne State University. I practiced for seven years in pediatric emergency medicine and behavioral health before finding her true calling in mental health.

I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.
I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.

I'm board-certified in both General Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have a variety of special interests including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, genetics, evolutionary psychology and issues impacting the LGBT community. I'm enthusiastic about teaching and will always go into detail about the nature of psychiatric illness and the impact of medication. I try to keep a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for all ages.
I'm board-certified in both General Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have a variety of special interests including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, genetics, evolutionary psychology and issues impacting the LGBT community. I'm enthusiastic about teaching and will always go into detail about the nature of psychiatric illness and the impact of medication. I try to keep a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for all ages.

Dr. Johnson is an adult psychiatrist/physician who treats patients ages 18 and older. As a psychiatrist, she utilizes and prescribes medications when appropriate and believes that a combination of medication, regular therapy, and lifestyle modifications including nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, and other self-care methods can help people achieve mental wellness. Dr. Johnson completed her residency training in psychiatry at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, MI in 2013 where she served as chief resident in her final year.
Dr. Johnson is an adult psychiatrist/physician who treats patients ages 18 and older. As a psychiatrist, she utilizes and prescribes medications when appropriate and believes that a combination of medication, regular therapy, and lifestyle modifications including nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, and other self-care methods can help people achieve mental wellness. Dr. Johnson completed her residency training in psychiatry at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, MI in 2013 where she served as chief resident in her final year.

Aaron Zalewski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Hello, it is an honor to be able to meet you and truly listen to your story. You are so much more than your past, your trauma, a diagnosis, or a label. Mental illness thrives in isolation, so I want to partner with you so that you feel heard. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am experienced in the evidence-based diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental illness.
Hello, it is an honor to be able to meet you and truly listen to your story. You are so much more than your past, your trauma, a diagnosis, or a label. Mental illness thrives in isolation, so I want to partner with you so that you feel heard. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am experienced in the evidence-based diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental illness.

Hi, I am a PA in psychiatry and am accepting new clients remotely. Remote visits are convenient and allow you to take the appointment from home. (visit: resiliencemhw.com) Have you been diagnosed with or suspect that you have anxiety, depression, or insomnia? Do you suspect that you might be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, OCD, or mood swings? Have you felt unheard or misunderstood by doctors and therapists? Or do you want to figure out what's going on with your thoughts and/or behaviors.
Hi, I am a PA in psychiatry and am accepting new clients remotely. Remote visits are convenient and allow you to take the appointment from home. (visit: resiliencemhw.com) Have you been diagnosed with or suspect that you have anxiety, depression, or insomnia? Do you suspect that you might be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, OCD, or mood swings? Have you felt unheard or misunderstood by doctors and therapists? Or do you want to figure out what's going on with your thoughts and/or behaviors.
See more therapy options for 48042
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 48042
< 10
Psychiatrists in 48042 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in 48042 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 48042?
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.