Psychiatrists in 48105
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, sleep concerns, panic, OCD, and addictive behaviors. Many are college students, professionals, healthcare providers, and parents navigating stress, burnout, or feeling out of alignment and seeking a more intentional, respectful approach to care. My approach is inclusive and affirming, grounded in respect for each person’s lived experience. I create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in your care, helping you move toward clarity, balance, and purpose.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, sleep concerns, panic, OCD, and addictive behaviors. Many are college students, professionals, healthcare providers, and parents navigating stress, burnout, or feeling out of alignment and seeking a more intentional, respectful approach to care. My approach is inclusive and affirming, grounded in respect for each person’s lived experience. I create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in your care, helping you move toward clarity, balance, and purpose.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Jen McConnell, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan navigate their mental health challenges and achieve a better quality of life. Serving patients across a wide age range, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors, Jen offers a comprehensive approach to care that includes individual therapy and medication management. Her expertise extends to treating conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression, with a focus on providing personalized, evidence-based solutions that empower her patients to thrive. Jen is passionate about helping individuals struggling with ADHD, PTSD/trauma, and anxiety.
Jen McConnell, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan navigate their mental health challenges and achieve a better quality of life. Serving patients across a wide age range, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors, Jen offers a comprehensive approach to care that includes individual therapy and medication management. Her expertise extends to treating conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression, with a focus on providing personalized, evidence-based solutions that empower her patients to thrive. Jen is passionate about helping individuals struggling with ADHD, PTSD/trauma, and anxiety.
Gloria’s treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them.
In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.Gloria’s treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patien
Gloria’s treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them.
In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.Gloria’s treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patien
Ann Arbor Spravato Treatment Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Are you tired of struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, PTSD or anxiety? Have you tried everything and feel like nothing is working? Our specialists offer highly effective and safe evidence-based treatment that can help you to feel and function better soon. Sound to good to be true? Its not. Spravato is a transformational medication that literally heals the brain. It facilitates the ability and openness to learn new habits of thought and life skills when combined with cutting edge, integration counseling. 60 - 85% of our patients will have a positive outcome and 30 - 50% are symptom free.
Are you tired of struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, PTSD or anxiety? Have you tried everything and feel like nothing is working? Our specialists offer highly effective and safe evidence-based treatment that can help you to feel and function better soon. Sound to good to be true? Its not. Spravato is a transformational medication that literally heals the brain. It facilitates the ability and openness to learn new habits of thought and life skills when combined with cutting edge, integration counseling. 60 - 85% of our patients will have a positive outcome and 30 - 50% are symptom free.
I have 30 years of experience (including 12 years as a University of Michigan professor of psychiatry and neuroscience) in psychiatric practice in various settings, from emergency rooms and inpatient units to outpatient clinics and community services. I am a trained psychotherapist and neuroscientist. I purposely keep my practice small to offer each person I work with the time, attention, and high-quality care they need. In my work, I apply my knowledge of brain development, neuroplasticity, gut-brain axis, and neuroscience of emotions to make treatments, including psychotherapy and medication management, more effective and lasting.
I have 30 years of experience (including 12 years as a University of Michigan professor of psychiatry and neuroscience) in psychiatric practice in various settings, from emergency rooms and inpatient units to outpatient clinics and community services. I am a trained psychotherapist and neuroscientist. I purposely keep my practice small to offer each person I work with the time, attention, and high-quality care they need. In my work, I apply my knowledge of brain development, neuroplasticity, gut-brain axis, and neuroscience of emotions to make treatments, including psychotherapy and medication management, more effective and lasting.
My practice is for psychotherapy only, I do not prescribe medication. I like to partner with clients to manage life's problems, build on their strengths, learn about themselves, and meet their life goals in a supportive, safe, non-judgmental, and respectful atmosphere. I am a former faculty member of the University of Michigan School of Nursing where I taught undergraduate and graduate level theory and clinical courses in psychiatric nursing. I have also taught graduate students at Michigan State University and practiced in a variety of settings.
My practice is for psychotherapy only, I do not prescribe medication. I like to partner with clients to manage life's problems, build on their strengths, learn about themselves, and meet their life goals in a supportive, safe, non-judgmental, and respectful atmosphere. I am a former faculty member of the University of Michigan School of Nursing where I taught undergraduate and graduate level theory and clinical courses in psychiatric nursing. I have also taught graduate students at Michigan State University and practiced in a variety of settings.
Hello!
Welcome.
Thank you for stopping by. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I work with adults 18 to 65 yrs old.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself, please know you are not alone. This is a secure, non-judgmental space for individuals navigating: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Alcohol Dependence(med management).
Together, we will create a personalized treatment path that helps you reconnect with who you want to be.
Hello!
Welcome.
Thank you for stopping by. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I work with adults 18 to 65 yrs old.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself, please know you are not alone. This is a secure, non-judgmental space for individuals navigating: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Alcohol Dependence(med management).
Together, we will create a personalized treatment path that helps you reconnect with who you want to be.
Lindsay-Rose Dunstan, MD (she/they) is a queer/neurodivergent psychiatrist, prison/police abolitionist, and cat fancier. Dr. Dunstan graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in French literature, a master’s degree in health behavior and health education, and a medical degree in 2005. Subsequently, she completed her psychiatric residency training at Columbia University, followed by fellowships in psychosocial rehabilitation and public psychiatry. Her practice is catered to folx with neurodivergent conditions, marginalized identities, and Medicaid insurance plans.
Lindsay-Rose Dunstan, MD (she/they) is a queer/neurodivergent psychiatrist, prison/police abolitionist, and cat fancier. Dr. Dunstan graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in French literature, a master’s degree in health behavior and health education, and a medical degree in 2005. Subsequently, she completed her psychiatric residency training at Columbia University, followed by fellowships in psychosocial rehabilitation and public psychiatry. Her practice is catered to folx with neurodivergent conditions, marginalized identities, and Medicaid insurance plans.
Dr. Andrea Naaum is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2018. Dr. Naaum holds an honors bachelor's degree in biochemistry from the University of Windsor and her medical degree from Saba University School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatric residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program in 2018. Since then, she has worked in a community mental health setting involving both inpatient and outpatient work as well as more acute/specialized care in intensive outpatient programming and assertive community treatment teamwork.Dr. Andrea Naaum is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing si
Dr. Andrea Naaum is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2018. Dr. Naaum holds an honors bachelor's degree in biochemistry from the University of Windsor and her medical degree from Saba University School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatric residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program in 2018. Since then, she has worked in a community mental health setting involving both inpatient and outpatient work as well as more acute/specialized care in intensive outpatient programming and assertive community treatment teamwork.Dr. Andrea Naaum is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing si
I am a licensed MD and psychiatrist in the private practice of psychotherapy and psychiatry in Ann Arbor, Michigan with a special interest in Jungian psychotherapy. Services offered include psychotherapy, psychiatric diagnosis, and treatment. With more than 30 years in private practice, I have worked with people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities who are faced with serious challenges or just looking to live life in a better way, do the things they want to do and enjoy life more.
I am a licensed MD and psychiatrist in the private practice of psychotherapy and psychiatry in Ann Arbor, Michigan with a special interest in Jungian psychotherapy. Services offered include psychotherapy, psychiatric diagnosis, and treatment. With more than 30 years in private practice, I have worked with people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities who are faced with serious challenges or just looking to live life in a better way, do the things they want to do and enjoy life more.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply exhausted from carrying so much on your own. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, past trauma, or finding balance between all the roles you hold as a parent, partner, or professional. What you want is relief, peace of mind, and a safe space where you can finally exhale and be understood without judgment.
Whether you’re seeking therapy, medication management, or a thoughtful combination of both, my goal is to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and hopeful. Lets create the perfect treatment plan tailored just for you, and create a life that feels lighter and authentic
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply exhausted from carrying so much on your own. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, past trauma, or finding balance between all the roles you hold as a parent, partner, or professional. What you want is relief, peace of mind, and a safe space where you can finally exhale and be understood without judgment.
Whether you’re seeking therapy, medication management, or a thoughtful combination of both, my goal is to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and hopeful. Lets create the perfect treatment plan tailored just for you, and create a life that feels lighter and authentic
You're high-functioning on the outside — running a company, competing at the elite level, carrying a team, a newborn, or a family — but inside you're exhausted, anxious, not sleeping, and wondering when the weight got this heavy. Maybe it's perfectionism that stopped working, a medication that lost its edge, postpartum depression no one warned you about, or performance anxiety before every game or board meeting. You've tried fifteen-minute med checks with a psychiatrist who doesn't know you, and does not coordinate with your therapist. You want a psychiatrist who can do both — or work alongside the therapist you trust.
You're high-functioning on the outside — running a company, competing at the elite level, carrying a team, a newborn, or a family — but inside you're exhausted, anxious, not sleeping, and wondering when the weight got this heavy. Maybe it's perfectionism that stopped working, a medication that lost its edge, postpartum depression no one warned you about, or performance anxiety before every game or board meeting. You've tried fifteen-minute med checks with a psychiatrist who doesn't know you, and does not coordinate with your therapist. You want a psychiatrist who can do both — or work alongside the therapist you trust.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with training and experience in both academic and community practice settings. I believe mental healthcare is a partnership between doctor and patient. My strength is the ability to offer recommendations based on medical training and knowledge. Your role is to engage in discussion with me to come up with the best next steps that will work for you and your life.
Often I see people do best when they take an active role and interest in their mental wellness, which may mean making a medication change, engaging in a new healthy activity, or starting psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with training and experience in both academic and community practice settings. I believe mental healthcare is a partnership between doctor and patient. My strength is the ability to offer recommendations based on medical training and knowledge. Your role is to engage in discussion with me to come up with the best next steps that will work for you and your life.
Often I see people do best when they take an active role and interest in their mental wellness, which may mean making a medication change, engaging in a new healthy activity, or starting psychotherapy.
I have over 50 years of experience in helping patients of all ages. I am particularly good with children and old people. I ran the inpatient child and adolescent unit at Michigan Medicine for 15 years. I am double boarded and am a Professor Emeritus at the University of Michigan. I can see conditions in a wide range of people and can teach them to deal with their issues.
I often see those patients who have been seen and treated many times before. Many meds and little response. I care and I can help.
Don't put off getting help for you or your child if they are having problems.
I have over 50 years of experience in helping patients of all ages. I am particularly good with children and old people. I ran the inpatient child and adolescent unit at Michigan Medicine for 15 years. I am double boarded and am a Professor Emeritus at the University of Michigan. I can see conditions in a wide range of people and can teach them to deal with their issues.
I often see those patients who have been seen and treated many times before. Many meds and little response. I care and I can help.
Don't put off getting help for you or your child if they are having problems.
Have you tried many medications and therapies? Still struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD or addiction? We understand your frustration and pain. For over 40 years we’ve helped people like you to feel and function better. We'll listen to understand your needs, collaborate to develop treatment plans with measurable goals, determine if we have the right specialists, when we can start and what the cost will be. If we can’t, we’ll help you find someone who can. Best Fit Care is highly effective, affordable, available online anywhere in Michigan, in days not weeks or months
Have you tried many medications and therapies? Still struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD or addiction? We understand your frustration and pain. For over 40 years we’ve helped people like you to feel and function better. We'll listen to understand your needs, collaborate to develop treatment plans with measurable goals, determine if we have the right specialists, when we can start and what the cost will be. If we can’t, we’ll help you find someone who can. Best Fit Care is highly effective, affordable, available online anywhere in Michigan, in days not weeks or months
Have you tried many medications and therapies? Still struggling with depression, anxiety, ptsd or addiction? We understand
your frustration and pain. For over 40 years we have been helping people like you to feel and function better. We'll collaborate to understand your needs, develop treatment plans with measurable goals, determine if we have the right specialists and if you think we are a good fit, how soon we can start and what the cost will be. If we can’t, we’ll help you find someone who can. Best Fit Care is highly effective, affordable, available online anywhere in Michigan, usually within days not months.
Have you tried many medications and therapies? Still struggling with depression, anxiety, ptsd or addiction? We understand
your frustration and pain. For over 40 years we have been helping people like you to feel and function better. We'll collaborate to understand your needs, develop treatment plans with measurable goals, determine if we have the right specialists and if you think we are a good fit, how soon we can start and what the cost will be. If we can’t, we’ll help you find someone who can. Best Fit Care is highly effective, affordable, available online anywhere in Michigan, usually within days not months.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen 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 will work with you to find the right medication(s) to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling or other services may also be needed and we will find the right specialist on our team for you. Our time is limited and we can't see patients in counseling with other providers.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen 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 will work with you to find the right medication(s) to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling or other services may also be needed and we will find the right specialist on our team for you. Our time is limited and we can't see patients in counseling with other providers.
As a parent, I know how hard it is to see your child struggle and even worse, not to find help when you need it, especially now with the shortage of child psychiatrists. Our specialists have immediate openings for children and adults anywhere in Michigan. Dr Lemmen and Kristi Ramirez provide comprehensive assessments and collaborate with you to make informed decisions about your treatment options. Science tells us what works. We now have better medications and counseling tools. The best treatments work best with collaboration and a plan to get where you want to go that is grounded in Science and Common Sense, our shared GPS.
As a parent, I know how hard it is to see your child struggle and even worse, not to find help when you need it, especially now with the shortage of child psychiatrists. Our specialists have immediate openings for children and adults anywhere in Michigan. Dr Lemmen and Kristi Ramirez provide comprehensive assessments and collaborate with you to make informed decisions about your treatment options. Science tells us what works. We now have better medications and counseling tools. The best treatments work best with collaboration and a plan to get where you want to go that is grounded in Science and Common Sense, our shared GPS.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen, Erin Engel 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 ongoing collaboration with you to find the right dose to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling may also be needed and we collaborate with our Best Fit Counseling specialists to meet your needs.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen, Erin Engel 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 ongoing collaboration with you to find the right dose to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling may also be needed and we collaborate with our Best Fit Counseling specialists to meet your needs.
See more therapy options for 48105
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 48105
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 48105 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 77% | Grief |
| 77% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 77% | Medication Management |
| 73% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 62% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 86% | Aetna |
| 71% | Optum |
| 67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 48105 see their clients
| 65% | In Person and Online | |
| 35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 68% | Female | |
| 32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 48105?
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.


