Psychiatrists in 48154

Photo of Dr. Robert John Lagrou - New Oakland Family Centers, Psychiatrist, DO
New Oakland Family Centers
Psychiatrist, DO
Livonia, MI 48154
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.
(734) 802-0879 View (734) 802-0879
Photo of Maria Villafuerte, Psychiatrist, DO
Maria Villafuerte
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48154
I offer psychiatric evaluations for age 15 and above who are considering medication for a variety of mental health conditions. I treat patients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and ADHD. 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.
I offer psychiatric evaluations for age 15 and above who are considering medication for a variety of mental health conditions. I treat patients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and ADHD. 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.
(734) 366-4443 View (734) 366-4443
Photo of Zeeshan Choudhry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Zeeshan Choudhry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
9 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48154
Hello I evaluate and prescribe medications for many diagnoses for kids and adults such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, oppositional defiance disorder as well as many others. I want to help you or your child the best that I can whether you want to come in person or are comfortable talking from home I am flexible. 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
Hello I evaluate and prescribe medications for many diagnoses for kids and adults such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, oppositional defiance disorder as well as many others. I want to help you or your child the best that I can whether you want to come in person or are comfortable talking from home I am flexible. 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
(800) 395-3223 View (800) 395-3223
Photo of Patrick Gresham, Psychiatrist, MD
Patrick Gresham
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am the head Psychiatrist and owner of Michigan Mental Wellness. I'm board-certified in both General Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have a variety of special interests including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, genetics, evolutionary psychology, Ketamine assisted treatments and issues impacting the LGBTQ community. I'm enthusiastic about teaching and will always go into detail about the nature of psychiatric illness and the impact of medication. I try to keep a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for all ages.
I am the head Psychiatrist and owner of Michigan Mental Wellness. I'm board-certified in both General Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have a variety of special interests including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, genetics, evolutionary psychology, Ketamine assisted treatments and issues impacting the LGBTQ community. I'm enthusiastic about teaching and will always go into detail about the nature of psychiatric illness and the impact of medication. I try to keep a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for all ages.
(248) 721-8077 View (248) 721-8077
Photo of Andre Lorenz, Psychiatrist, DO
Andre Lorenz
Psychiatrist, DO
Livonia, MI 48154
(734) 371-8169 View (734) 371-8169

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Joy Newhouse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Joy Newhouse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
In my work as a mental health professional, the ideal client is someone who is willing to actively engage in the therapeutic process, motivated to make positive changes, and open to exploring their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They should be committed to self-improvement and eager to work collaboratively with their provider to address their issues. The issues that many clients may be facing vary widely but could include anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, or other mental health concerns. They may also be experiencing stress, grief, or life transitions that are impacting their lives.
In my work as a mental health professional, the ideal client is someone who is willing to actively engage in the therapeutic process, motivated to make positive changes, and open to exploring their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They should be committed to self-improvement and eager to work collaboratively with their provider to address their issues. The issues that many clients may be facing vary widely but could include anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, or other mental health concerns. They may also be experiencing stress, grief, or life transitions that are impacting their lives.
(906) 323-9240 View (906) 323-9240
Photo of Wendy Besler, Psychiatrist, MD
Wendy Besler
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48336
I do not believe in the current practice of symptomatic medicine. It has proven ineffective and has divided the practice of medicine into specialties, forgetting that the body functions in a constant state of homeostasis- all systems reliant on each other to function optimally. I believe that treating the underlying issue, down to the molecular basis, is what needs to be addressed in order to treat and eventually heal the disease. Unfortunately diseases have been categorized into separate entities when there is a common thread that is shared between them. My goal is to heal the mind & body as whole through integrative medicine.
I do not believe in the current practice of symptomatic medicine. It has proven ineffective and has divided the practice of medicine into specialties, forgetting that the body functions in a constant state of homeostasis- all systems reliant on each other to function optimally. I believe that treating the underlying issue, down to the molecular basis, is what needs to be addressed in order to treat and eventually heal the disease. Unfortunately diseases have been categorized into separate entities when there is a common thread that is shared between them. My goal is to heal the mind & body as whole through integrative medicine.
(947) 222-1791 View (947) 222-1791
Photo of Michael Tansingco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Michael Tansingco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48226
My patient goals include: Relief from Symptoms; Improved Quality of Life; Understanding and Insight; Empowerment and Control; Support and Validation; Personal Growth and Resilience; and Integration and Normalcy
My patient goals include: Relief from Symptoms; Improved Quality of Life; Understanding and Insight; Empowerment and Control; Support and Validation; Personal Growth and Resilience; and Integration and Normalcy
(313) 474-9139 View (313) 474-9139
Photo of Bethany Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP-C, CNM
Bethany Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP-C, CNM
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with emotional challenges that impact your daily life? Perhaps you’re a new parent navigating the complexities of perinatal mood changes, a young adult facing anxiety or depression, or someone coping with past trauma. Maybe you're an athlete or high-achieving professional dealing with stress, performance pressure, or identity shifts. Whatever your journey, you deserve a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to heal. Email or call for an appointment, I typically have more openings then appear on my schedule- so I will work to accommodate you needs. Just email me!
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with emotional challenges that impact your daily life? Perhaps you’re a new parent navigating the complexities of perinatal mood changes, a young adult facing anxiety or depression, or someone coping with past trauma. Maybe you're an athlete or high-achieving professional dealing with stress, performance pressure, or identity shifts. Whatever your journey, you deserve a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to heal. Email or call for an appointment, I typically have more openings then appear on my schedule- so I will work to accommodate you needs. Just email me!
(231) 227-4706 View (231) 227-4706
Photo of Karla Jordan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, NP
Karla Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, NP
Karla Jordan is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 5 years of clinical experience in providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those seeking assistance with depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Stress management, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Karla is passionate about providing quality mental health care. Karla utilizes evidence-based practices and approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, psycho-dynamic, and mindfulness therapy. Karla utilizes a holistic approach to help achieve optimal mental health.
Karla Jordan is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 5 years of clinical experience in providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those seeking assistance with depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Stress management, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Karla is passionate about providing quality mental health care. Karla utilizes evidence-based practices and approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, psycho-dynamic, and mindfulness therapy. Karla utilizes a holistic approach to help achieve optimal mental health.
(586) 488-4015 View (586) 488-4015
Photo of Zain Choudhry, Psychiatrist, MD
Zain Choudhry
Psychiatrist, MD
Taylor, MI 48180
My name is Zain Choudhry. I am currently 32 years old and have started my psychiatric practice here at Lifestance Health located in Taylor, MI. I was born and raised in Michigan in a small town called Grosse Ile. In 2012, I graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor s degree in Brain, Behavior, and Cognitive Sciences. Afterwards, I started medical school at St. George s University and graduated in 2018. I then started my residency back in the state of Michigan at Detroit Wayne County Health Authority. The bulk of my experience is outpatient based and is where my expertise lies.
My name is Zain Choudhry. I am currently 32 years old and have started my psychiatric practice here at Lifestance Health located in Taylor, MI. I was born and raised in Michigan in a small town called Grosse Ile. In 2012, I graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor s degree in Brain, Behavior, and Cognitive Sciences. Afterwards, I started medical school at St. George s University and graduated in 2018. I then started my residency back in the state of Michigan at Detroit Wayne County Health Authority. The bulk of my experience is outpatient based and is where my expertise lies.
(734) 428-3884 View (734) 428-3884
Photo of Anthonia Umelogu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Anthonia Umelogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
4 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
See new patient openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. My focus is on ADHD, mood swings, anxiety, depression, and complex PTSD. I see ages 8 and up. I look beyond symptoms, and the usual 20 medications, to assess for underlying causes of difficulty. Neurobiologically, this may include lab work to assess nutritional status, genetic testing, lifestyle factors, and often missed underlying medical conditions.
See new patient openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. My focus is on ADHD, mood swings, anxiety, depression, and complex PTSD. I see ages 8 and up. I look beyond symptoms, and the usual 20 medications, to assess for underlying causes of difficulty. Neurobiologically, this may include lab work to assess nutritional status, genetic testing, lifestyle factors, and often missed underlying medical conditions.
(734) 619-6733 View (734) 619-6733
Photo of John Mrachina, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
John Mrachina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Waterford, MI 48327
At Healing Mental Health our mission is to provide high-quality mental health medication management to our community, city, county, and beyond. We envision a future where mental health is an important part of overall health, and mental care is an integral part of all health care.
At Healing Mental Health our mission is to provide high-quality mental health medication management to our community, city, county, and beyond. We envision a future where mental health is an important part of overall health, and mental care is an integral part of all health care.
(248) 453-2149 View (248) 453-2149
Photo of Uche Obua - Apex Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, PhD
Apex Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, PhD
Southfield, MI 48075
Dr. Uche Obua is an experienced healthcare provider. He is a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He holds a Doctor of Nursing degree and a PhD in Biochemistry. Dr. Obua is very experienced in addiction treatment having worked in an outpatient opioid treatment program for the past 5 years. He has in the years affected and orchestrated positive change and made a difference with patients skillfully and with diligence.
Dr. Uche Obua is an experienced healthcare provider. He is a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He holds a Doctor of Nursing degree and a PhD in Biochemistry. Dr. Obua is very experienced in addiction treatment having worked in an outpatient opioid treatment program for the past 5 years. He has in the years affected and orchestrated positive change and made a difference with patients skillfully and with diligence.
(248) 900-2616 View (248) 900-2616
Infinite Wellness Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcome to Infinite Wellness. At this time, we are generally able to see new patients within 30 days. There is a board certified Psychiatrist and a Nurse Practitioner. We refer to several therapists in the community.
Welcome to Infinite Wellness. At this time, we are generally able to see new patients within 30 days. There is a board certified Psychiatrist and a Nurse Practitioner. We refer to several therapists in the community.
(248) 218-9429 View (248) 218-9429
Jen McConnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
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
Photo of Robert John Lagrou - Motor City Medical Group, Psychiatrist, DO
Motor City Medical Group
Psychiatrist, DO
Motor City Medical Group offer integrative behavioral health services across the State of Michigan. The medical team works in collaboration with H3 Wellness to provide state of the art integrative medication management services that focus on the mind, body, and spirit of H3's clients. We offer immediate access for medication management as well as both TMS and Spravato Treatments.
Motor City Medical Group offer integrative behavioral health services across the State of Michigan. The medical team works in collaboration with H3 Wellness to provide state of the art integrative medication management services that focus on the mind, body, and spirit of H3's clients. We offer immediate access for medication management as well as both TMS and Spravato Treatments.
(313) 488-2651 View (313) 488-2651
Photo of Renee Harris, Psychiatrist, MD
Renee Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
I was born in Michigan and have resided here for most of my life. I attended Wayne State University earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and obtained my medical degree from the Wayne State University School of Medicine. I completed an Adult Psychiatry Residency at Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, OH followed by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship also at the Medical College of Ohio. I especially love working with children, adolescents, and their families. I am also a wife, mother, daughter, and sister.
I was born in Michigan and have resided here for most of my life. I attended Wayne State University earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and obtained my medical degree from the Wayne State University School of Medicine. I completed an Adult Psychiatry Residency at Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, OH followed by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship also at the Medical College of Ohio. I especially love working with children, adolescents, and their families. I am also a wife, mother, daughter, and sister.
(248) 397-6671 View (248) 397-6671
Photo of Chinwe Ohaka - Hope Wellness Center LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Hope Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Online Only
My ideal client may be experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. They might be navigating difficult life transitions, managing stress, or struggling with relationship issues. Their primary needs include effective symptom management, emotional support, and strategies to enhance daily functioning and overall well-being. Their goals often involve finding relief from distressing symptoms, improving quality of life, and developing resilience to face life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
My ideal client may be experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. They might be navigating difficult life transitions, managing stress, or struggling with relationship issues. Their primary needs include effective symptom management, emotional support, and strategies to enhance daily functioning and overall well-being. Their goals often involve finding relief from distressing symptoms, improving quality of life, and developing resilience to face life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
(313) 362-6345 View (313) 362-6345
Photo of Ekuevugbe Onosode, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ekuevugbe Onosode
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brighton, MI 48114
Ekus Onosode is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan with six months of experience. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oakland University School of Nursing and a PMHNP from Frontier Nursing University. Ekus believes in listening and understanding a patient's health concerns while being an avid educator skilled in teaching prevention methods and promoting self-care. She takes the time to get to know patients and their family's health history to manage existing mental illnesses and teach coping skills to help patients be functional and independent as possible.
Ekus Onosode is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan with six months of experience. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oakland University School of Nursing and a PMHNP from Frontier Nursing University. Ekus believes in listening and understanding a patient's health concerns while being an avid educator skilled in teaching prevention methods and promoting self-care. She takes the time to get to know patients and their family's health history to manage existing mental illnesses and teach coping skills to help patients be functional and independent as possible.
(810) 371-3890 View (810) 371-3890

See more therapy options for 48154

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 48154

< 10

Psychiatrists in 48154 who prioritize treating:

80% Depression
80% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
60% Addiction
60% Child
60% ADHD
60% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 48154 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 48154?

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.