Psychiatrists in 48060

Gerome Hess
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, RN
Port Huron, MI 48060
I am looking to provide care in a caring, Christian atmosphere for patients who sincerely desire to optimize their functioning status in life through the utilization of psychiatric medication services combined with psychotherapy services. I work with the patient and their family/friends to provide education regarding current psychiatric diagnoses and symptomology, available psychiatric medications to address current symptoms, and the various therapy options at Renewal Christian Counseling Center in order to partner with the patient in developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
I am looking to provide care in a caring, Christian atmosphere for patients who sincerely desire to optimize their functioning status in life through the utilization of psychiatric medication services combined with psychotherapy services. I work with the patient and their family/friends to provide education regarding current psychiatric diagnoses and symptomology, available psychiatric medications to address current symptoms, and the various therapy options at Renewal Christian Counseling Center in order to partner with the patient in developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
(810) 321-4570 View (810) 321-4570
Valerie Rennon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP
Serves Area
• My name is Valerie Lopez Rennon and I am a master's prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a dual license as Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner specialties. Although I have over a year experience as a prescribing provider, I have been working with diverse populations with inpatient mental health/ psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, reproductive health, OB/GYN, forensic nurse examiner experience. • I specialize in working with minorities, uninsured, underinsured persons in their lifespan (8-65 years old) as they navigate through life's changes.
• My name is Valerie Lopez Rennon and I am a master's prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a dual license as Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner specialties. Although I have over a year experience as a prescribing provider, I have been working with diverse populations with inpatient mental health/ psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, reproductive health, OB/GYN, forensic nurse examiner experience. • I specialize in working with minorities, uninsured, underinsured persons in their lifespan (8-65 years old) as they navigate through life's changes.
(586) 354-9394 View (586) 354-9394
Ashley McGovern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Ashley. I specialize in reproductive and perinatal psychiatry, supporting people through pregnancy, postpartum, infertility, hormonal shifts, PMDD, and menopause. I also work with parents navigating anxiety, depression, or the mood changes and overwhelm that ripple into family life. You don't have to figure this out alone. You deserve care that takes both your mind and your body seriously.
Hi, I'm Ashley. I specialize in reproductive and perinatal psychiatry, supporting people through pregnancy, postpartum, infertility, hormonal shifts, PMDD, and menopause. I also work with parents navigating anxiety, depression, or the mood changes and overwhelm that ripple into family life. You don't have to figure this out alone. You deserve care that takes both your mind and your body seriously.
(734) 251-5091 View (734) 251-5091
Linda Fares
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, APRN
Online Only
Ever wonder if life was supposed to feel a little easier than it does right now? I work with teens and adults facing family struggles, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions. I also support women managing stress and big changes. My style is warm, empowering, and often sprinkled with humor—because laughter really can lighten the load. As a Palestinian-American fluent in Arabic, I’m passionate about creating a safe and welcoming space for people from all backgrounds. My goal is to help you feel seen, supported, and ready to take the next step forward.
Ever wonder if life was supposed to feel a little easier than it does right now? I work with teens and adults facing family struggles, relationship challenges, trauma, and life transitions. I also support women managing stress and big changes. My style is warm, empowering, and often sprinkled with humor—because laughter really can lighten the load. As a Palestinian-American fluent in Arabic, I’m passionate about creating a safe and welcoming space for people from all backgrounds. My goal is to help you feel seen, supported, and ready to take the next step forward.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

We are a group practice consisting of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, licensed psychologists, social workers, and professional counselors.
We are a group practice consisting of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, licensed psychologists, social workers, and professional counselors.
(586) 371-8150 View (586) 371-8150
Ebere Agulanna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
22 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! I’m Ebere, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping people feel their best. I have over five years of experience in acute, critical, and mental health care. At Clear Star Behavioral Health, I provide mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. My work focuses on supporting individuals through life transitions, emotional challenges, and mood-related concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, and difficulties with focus and emotional regulation.
Welcome! I’m Ebere, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping people feel their best. I have over five years of experience in acute, critical, and mental health care. At Clear Star Behavioral Health, I provide mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. My work focuses on supporting individuals through life transitions, emotional challenges, and mood-related concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, and difficulties with focus and emotional regulation.
(810) 884-6225 View (810) 884-6225
Ahuva Lakier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in inpatient, crisis, and outpatient psychiatric care. I work with individuals ready to make meaningful change and step more fully into the life they want. I take a collaborative, goal-oriented approach, helping clients build insight, challenge unhelpful patterns, and develop practical tools for growth. I especially enjoy working with young adults finding their direction, busy adults balancing multiple roles, and older adults navigating life transitions—all with a focus on strengthening resilience, clarity, and confidence.
Hi there! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in inpatient, crisis, and outpatient psychiatric care. I work with individuals ready to make meaningful change and step more fully into the life they want. I take a collaborative, goal-oriented approach, helping clients build insight, challenge unhelpful patterns, and develop practical tools for growth. I especially enjoy working with young adults finding their direction, busy adults balancing multiple roles, and older adults navigating life transitions—all with a focus on strengthening resilience, clarity, and confidence.
(313) 484-2683 View (313) 484-2683
Olga Dmitryuk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Olga Dmitryuk, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I work with children (ages 5 and up), adolescents, adults, and older adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, trauma, irritability, and ADHD, that can make everyday functioning feel overwhelming. In our first few sessions, you can expect a thorough evaluation, open conversation about your concerns and goals, and a clear discussion of treatment options. I focus on building trust, understanding patterns that may be contributing to symptoms, and developing a practical plan that feels realistic and sustainable.
My name is Olga Dmitryuk, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I work with children (ages 5 and up), adolescents, adults, and older adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, trauma, irritability, and ADHD, that can make everyday functioning feel overwhelming. In our first few sessions, you can expect a thorough evaluation, open conversation about your concerns and goals, and a clear discussion of treatment options. I focus on building trust, understanding patterns that may be contributing to symptoms, and developing a practical plan that feels realistic and sustainable.
(586) 690-4970 View (586) 690-4970

Online Psychiatrists

Cindy Shields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-C, MHA
1 Endorsed
As a dual-certified psychiatric (PMHNP-BC) and adult-geriatric (NP-C) nurse practitioner I am able to draw on my experience to provide evidence-based care with from a holistic perspective. I believe a person-centered approach is essential to help people recover from mental illness, as many experience limited improvement from medication alone. If a client feels that traditional treatment has failed them and has a curiosity about alternative treatments, I can help them. I especially enjoy working with middle-aged and older adults who are having difficulty with life transitions.
As a dual-certified psychiatric (PMHNP-BC) and adult-geriatric (NP-C) nurse practitioner I am able to draw on my experience to provide evidence-based care with from a holistic perspective. I believe a person-centered approach is essential to help people recover from mental illness, as many experience limited improvement from medication alone. If a client feels that traditional treatment has failed them and has a curiosity about alternative treatments, I can help them. I especially enjoy working with middle-aged and older adults who are having difficulty with life transitions.
(586) 315-4751 View (586) 315-4751
Jajo Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
We are dedicated to providing high-quality care for mental health conditions. Our team approaches each patient with compassion, ensuring that they feel supported and understood throughout their treatment. We focus on personalized care, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual. Our goal is to help patients achieve mental wellness in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Through this, we strive to make a positive impact on their lives and overall well-being.
We are dedicated to providing high-quality care for mental health conditions. Our team approaches each patient with compassion, ensuring that they feel supported and understood throughout their treatment. We focus on personalized care, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual. Our goal is to help patients achieve mental wellness in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Through this, we strive to make a positive impact on their lives and overall well-being.
(734) 331-6037 View (734) 331-6037
Zion Mind Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Now accepting new patients with openings this week. I provide personalized, collaborative, evidence-based psychiatric medication management for ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, burnout, and feeling mentally overwhelmed. When clinically appropriate, I also offer pharmacogenetic testing, which can provide additional information about how your body may metabolize or respond to certain psychiatric medications, helping to guide treatment decisions.
Now accepting new patients with openings this week. I provide personalized, collaborative, evidence-based psychiatric medication management for ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, burnout, and feeling mentally overwhelmed. When clinically appropriate, I also offer pharmacogenetic testing, which can provide additional information about how your body may metabolize or respond to certain psychiatric medications, helping to guide treatment decisions.
(734) 532-3545 View (734) 532-3545
Nadine Atoui
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B
Dearborn, MI 48120
Nadine Atoui, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan navigate life's challenges with compassion and clinical expertise. At LifeStance Health, she provides individualized therapy and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Nadine specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, offering a supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions and develop effective coping strategies. Her approach empowers patients to better understand their mental health and build resilience, fostering growth and healing.Nadine Atoui, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan
Nadine Atoui, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan navigate life's challenges with compassion and clinical expertise. At LifeStance Health, she provides individualized therapy and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Nadine specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, offering a supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions and develop effective coping strategies. Her approach empowers patients to better understand their mental health and build resilience, fostering growth and healing.Nadine Atoui, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan
(947) 546-1355 View (947) 546-1355
Elizabeth C. Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076
I provide compassionate psychiatric evaluation and medication management for all ages. My approach combines careful diagnosis, collaborative treatment planning, and therapy to help you gain clarity, improve symptoms, and function more fully in daily life. Treatment begins with understanding the whole person—not just the diagnosis. Together, we'll explore the factors contributing to your symptoms and create a personalized plan that may include medication management, education, or other strategies. My hope is that you'll leave each visit feeling heard, understood, and with a clear plan for moving forward.
I provide compassionate psychiatric evaluation and medication management for all ages. My approach combines careful diagnosis, collaborative treatment planning, and therapy to help you gain clarity, improve symptoms, and function more fully in daily life. Treatment begins with understanding the whole person—not just the diagnosis. Together, we'll explore the factors contributing to your symptoms and create a personalized plan that may include medication management, education, or other strategies. My hope is that you'll leave each visit feeling heard, understood, and with a clear plan for moving forward.
(947) 800-5538 View (947) 800-5538
Katherine Krajicek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Flint, MI 48532
“For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan’s most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive more than 600,000 points of service from New Oakland every year . . . from the Detroit area to Ann Arbor, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Port Huron.
“For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan’s most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive more than 600,000 points of service from New Oakland every year . . . from the Detroit area to Ann Arbor, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Port Huron.
(810) 666-6044 View (810) 666-6044
Peace of Mind, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
I am board certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for wellness and integrative care of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. I utilize a holistic, client centric approach to mental health where compassionate and supportive care are fostered. I am well-versed in working with clients individually and therapeutically treating diverse concerns that include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post traumatic stress disorders and ADHD. Evidence-based techniques are employed in treatment to equip patients with the ability to cope and succeed in daily life and achieve optimal wellness.
I am board certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for wellness and integrative care of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. I utilize a holistic, client centric approach to mental health where compassionate and supportive care are fostered. I am well-versed in working with clients individually and therapeutically treating diverse concerns that include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post traumatic stress disorders and ADHD. Evidence-based techniques are employed in treatment to equip patients with the ability to cope and succeed in daily life and achieve optimal wellness.
(947) 222-6152 View (947) 222-6152
Meriam Sam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction and all other Mental Health Disorders. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. I am an advocate for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. Im dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. I am passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.
I enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction and all other Mental Health Disorders. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. I am an advocate for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. Im dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. I am passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.
(316) 535-7402 View (316) 535-7402
Curtis Leipold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Curtis Leipold is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. Curtis obtained his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Purdue University and is a graduate from Wayne State University where he obtained his masters degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric disorders including; depression, anxiety, bipolar, and panic disorders. Curtis treats patient between the ages of 18 and 64. Curtis has experience managing psychiatric medications for adults and seniors. Curtis uses a holistic approach to treating mental illness.
Curtis Leipold is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. Curtis obtained his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Purdue University and is a graduate from Wayne State University where he obtained his masters degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric disorders including; depression, anxiety, bipolar, and panic disorders. Curtis treats patient between the ages of 18 and 64. Curtis has experience managing psychiatric medications for adults and seniors. Curtis uses a holistic approach to treating mental illness.
(586) 576-9502 View (586) 576-9502
Zion Mind Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
1 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48154
Now accepting new patients! Convenient online scheduling is available through my website. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, psychotic disorders, and emotional instability. My goal is to provide effective, evidence-based care that helps you feel more stable, in control, and able to thrive. My approach is personalized, thorough, and unhurried. In a straightforward and collaborative environment, we will complete a comprehensive evaluation and develop an individualized treatment plan that may include medication management and practical strategies for everyday life.
Now accepting new patients! Convenient online scheduling is available through my website. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, psychotic disorders, and emotional instability. My goal is to provide effective, evidence-based care that helps you feel more stable, in control, and able to thrive. My approach is personalized, thorough, and unhurried. In a straightforward and collaborative environment, we will complete a comprehensive evaluation and develop an individualized treatment plan that may include medication management and practical strategies for everyday life.
(248) 900-2544 View (248) 900-2544
Christina Sullivan, PMHNP - Advanced Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Troy, MI 48084
For those who feel like they are repeating the same cycles, it can be incredibly disheartening to the point where seeking help can feel like more work than it’s worth. However, if you are willing and motivated, sometimes it’s exactly that change and a little bit of hope that can make all the difference. I can offer you a partnership where your goals are at the center of our conversation. Together, we can explore different coping strategies, medication options, treatment-resistant interventions, and more holistic approaches to care.
For those who feel like they are repeating the same cycles, it can be incredibly disheartening to the point where seeking help can feel like more work than it’s worth. However, if you are willing and motivated, sometimes it’s exactly that change and a little bit of hope that can make all the difference. I can offer you a partnership where your goals are at the center of our conversation. Together, we can explore different coping strategies, medication options, treatment-resistant interventions, and more holistic approaches to care.
(248) 609-1646 View (248) 609-1646
Gwendolyn La Croix
Psychiatric Nurse, BA, RN, MSN
Dearborn, MI 48120
Gwendolyn La Croix, PMHNP, provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, teens, and adults throughout Michigan. As a Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse at LifeStance Health, she partners with patients and families to stabilize symptoms, clarify diagnoses, and create thoughtful treatment plans that support long-term mental wellness. Serving clients across MI, Gwendolyn focuses on helping individuals feel heard, understood, and confident in their care. Her clinical specialties include ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.Gwendolyn La Croix, PMHNP, provides compassionate, eviden
Gwendolyn La Croix, PMHNP, provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, teens, and adults throughout Michigan. As a Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse at LifeStance Health, she partners with patients and families to stabilize symptoms, clarify diagnoses, and create thoughtful treatment plans that support long-term mental wellness. Serving clients across MI, Gwendolyn focuses on helping individuals feel heard, understood, and confident in their care. Her clinical specialties include ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.Gwendolyn La Croix, PMHNP, provides compassionate, eviden
(313) 254-6129 View (313) 254-6129

See more therapy options for 48060

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 48060

< 10

Psychiatrists in 48060 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Substance Use
75% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 48060 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 48060?

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.