Psychiatrists in 48105

Photo of Kristie Ramirez - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
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 a very 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. The specialties listed are for our all of our clinicians.
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 a very 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. The specialties listed are for our all of our clinicians.
(269) 775-4801 View (269) 775-4801
Photo of Dr. Andrea Naaum - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
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.
(734) 212-2434 View (734) 212-2434
Photo of Laura Dansel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, NP
Laura Dansel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
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.
(734) 530-3230 View (734) 530-3230
Photo of Craig Lemmen - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez 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.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez 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.
(734) 294-5776 View (734) 294-5776
Photo of James Hillard, Psychiatrist, MD
James Hillard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Dr. Hillard is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has been Professor of Psychiatry at MSU, CMU, and University of Cincinnati. At UC, he was Chair of the Department of Psychiatry for 18 years. At MSU, he was Associate Provost for Human Health. He has published two books and over 100 papers on a wide range of psychiatric topics. He survived metastatic stomach cancer diagnosed in 2010 and is one of the 100 Stories of Hope for the 110th Anniversary of the American Cancer Society. He combines kindness and a sense of humor with wide ranging medical expertise.
Dr. Hillard is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has been Professor of Psychiatry at MSU, CMU, and University of Cincinnati. At UC, he was Chair of the Department of Psychiatry for 18 years. At MSU, he was Associate Provost for Human Health. He has published two books and over 100 papers on a wide range of psychiatric topics. He survived metastatic stomach cancer diagnosed in 2010 and is one of the 100 Stories of Hope for the 110th Anniversary of the American Cancer Society. He combines kindness and a sense of humor with wide ranging medical expertise.
(734) 821-4763 View (734) 821-4763
Photo of Craig Lemmen - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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 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 collaboration with our counseling specialists when needed to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited now and we are unable to work with patients working with other counseling providers.
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 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 collaboration with our counseling specialists when needed to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited now and we are unable to work with patients working with other counseling providers.
(734) 346-7654 View (734) 346-7654
Nicole Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent & adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen, Kristi Ramirez 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. If counseling is needed we can refer you to one of our Best Fit Counseling specialists.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent & adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen, Kristi Ramirez 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. If counseling is needed we can refer you to one of our Best Fit Counseling specialists.
(734) 548-9953 View (734) 548-9953
Photo of Kirsti Ramirez - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(248) 598-7285 View (248) 598-7285
Photo of Andrea Naaum, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Naaum
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
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 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.
(734) 441-2232 View (734) 441-2232
Photo of Lindsay Dunstan, Psychiatrist, MD
Lindsay Dunstan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Lindsay-Rose Dykema is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed her residency training at Columbia University. Lindsay-Rose is a queer psychiatrist and prison/police abolitionist who dabbles in narrative poetry and creative nonfiction. Her work has been published in psychiatric and leftist journals, poetry anthologies, and Slate Magazine. She will always offer a safe and affirming space. In her spare time, Lindsay-Rose enjoys yoga, running, writing, belting showtunes, petting cats.
Lindsay-Rose Dykema is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed her residency training at Columbia University. Lindsay-Rose is a queer psychiatrist and prison/police abolitionist who dabbles in narrative poetry and creative nonfiction. Her work has been published in psychiatric and leftist journals, poetry anthologies, and Slate Magazine. She will always offer a safe and affirming space. In her spare time, Lindsay-Rose enjoys yoga, running, writing, belting showtunes, petting cats.
(734) 849-4654 View (734) 849-4654
Photo of Angela Goodson, Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Angela Goodson
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Angela Goodson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has practicing since 2022. She has a Post Masters certification in Psychiatric Mental Health as a Nurse Practitioner. Angela's treatment philosophy is to build a partnership with each and every individual that is focused on developing a treatment plan together that aims to achieve remission of symptoms while improving quality and quantity of life. In her spare time, Angela enjoys running, biking, reading, and traveling.
Angela Goodson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has practicing since 2022. She has a Post Masters certification in Psychiatric Mental Health as a Nurse Practitioner. Angela's treatment philosophy is to build a partnership with each and every individual that is focused on developing a treatment plan together that aims to achieve remission of symptoms while improving quality and quantity of life. In her spare time, Angela enjoys running, biking, reading, and traveling.
(734) 396-8954 View (734) 396-8954
Photo of Rajaprabhakaran Rajarethinam - Early Treatment Center, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Early Treatment Center
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
We can provide an appointment within a week. Our center is focused on the early identification and treatment of major mental illnesses. We practice evidence based medicine and strive to minimize the use of multiple medications. We also conduct clinical research trials for multiple mental health conditions. We do not usually prescribe controlled substances that have addiction potential such as Xanax and Adderall.
We can provide an appointment within a week. Our center is focused on the early identification and treatment of major mental illnesses. We practice evidence based medicine and strive to minimize the use of multiple medications. We also conduct clinical research trials for multiple mental health conditions. We do not usually prescribe controlled substances that have addiction potential such as Xanax and Adderall.
(734) 219-0768 View (734) 219-0768
Photo of Dr. Jacek Debiec, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, DPhil
Dr. Jacek Debiec
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, DPhil
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I purposely have a small practice to offer each patient and family I work with the needed time and attention. 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 also a trained psychotherapist. At the heart of my treatment approach is a close alliance and partnership with my patients and their families. I invite you to connect with me to learn more and/or check if I have openings.
I purposely have a small practice to offer each patient and family I work with the needed time and attention. 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 also a trained psychotherapist. At the heart of my treatment approach is a close alliance and partnership with my patients and their families. I invite you to connect with me to learn more and/or check if I have openings.
(734) 349-3127 View (734) 349-3127
Photo of Kristi Ramirez - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Dr Lemmen, Melanie Levine 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, Melanie Levine 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.
(734) 294-5918 View (734) 294-5918
Photo of Jasmine Cofield, Physician Assistant, PA
Jasmine Cofield
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Have you been trying to manage your mental health medications through your Primary Care Doctor and it doesn't seem to be working? Maybe you know medication could help but have not found one that offers more relief than side effects? Treating mental disorders like depression, anxiety, ADHD and others can be tricky. We offer sessions that provide enough time to do a thorough assessment of your medical health, offer DNA testing to find medication families that work best with your body, and collaborate with our clinicians when we need further assessments to provide you with the best results.
Have you been trying to manage your mental health medications through your Primary Care Doctor and it doesn't seem to be working? Maybe you know medication could help but have not found one that offers more relief than side effects? Treating mental disorders like depression, anxiety, ADHD and others can be tricky. We offer sessions that provide enough time to do a thorough assessment of your medical health, offer DNA testing to find medication families that work best with your body, and collaborate with our clinicians when we need further assessments to provide you with the best results.
(734) 821-2817 View (734) 821-2817
Photo of Craig Lemmen - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(313) 217-3190 View (313) 217-3190
Photo of Gloria Egeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gloria Egeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Gloria Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. 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 Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. 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.
(810) 442-4172 View (810) 442-4172
Photo of Ahmad w Zubairi - Family Care Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Family Care Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I am an experienced Psychiatrist with Board Certification in Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have experience working with different disorders however I have special interest in treating ADHD, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.I have experience working in small community hospitals to large academic centers.
I am an experienced Psychiatrist with Board Certification in Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have experience working with different disorders however I have special interest in treating ADHD, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.I have experience working in small community hospitals to large academic centers.
(734) 403-4267 View (734) 403-4267
Photo of Rachael Blea, Physician Assistant, PA
Rachael Blea
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Are you tired of going to prescribing physicians that don't take time to listen to your concerns? Or may not have had good luck finding the right medication to minimize your symptoms? Finding the right provider and right medication can be tricky and having someone by your side while you figure it out that you both trust, and really listens is key to success! I take time my time with patients, getting to know them, and the symptoms they are having troubles with so we can work together to figure out the best solution.
Are you tired of going to prescribing physicians that don't take time to listen to your concerns? Or may not have had good luck finding the right medication to minimize your symptoms? Finding the right provider and right medication can be tricky and having someone by your side while you figure it out that you both trust, and really listens is key to success! I take time my time with patients, getting to know them, and the symptoms they are having troubles with so we can work together to figure out the best solution.
(734) 275-2303 View (734) 275-2303
Jen McConnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Jennifer 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, Jennifer 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. Jennifer is passionate about helping individuals struggling with ADHD, PTSD trauma, and anxiety.
Jennifer 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, Jennifer 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. Jennifer is passionate about helping individuals struggling with ADHD, PTSD trauma, and anxiety.
(734) 349-1956 View (734) 349-1956
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 48105

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 48105 who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
85% Anxiety
85% Medication Management
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Grief
67% Bipolar Disorder
56% Child

Average years in practice

34 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Aetna
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 48105 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% 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.

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.