Psychiatrists in 48197

Photo of Genevieve Sweeney, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Genevieve Sweeney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
I am a firm advocate for focused patient care. I am dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients and prescribing medication if needed to manage symptoms temporarily or longterm. I am passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life. I enjoy working with a diverse range of patients from all walks of life.
I am a firm advocate for focused patient care. I am dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients and prescribing medication if needed to manage symptoms temporarily or longterm. I am passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life. I enjoy working with a diverse range of patients from all walks of life.
(734) 896-5403 View (734) 896-5403
Photo of Chris Cummings, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Chris Cummings
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I am a PA-C that specializes in psychiatry. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve optimal well-being and am currently accepting new clients for remote appointments, offering convenient access to mental healthcare from the comfort of your own home. My area of expertise focuses on treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I believe in a holistic approach, incorporating various modalities to create a personalized treatment plan for each client. This may include medication management, therapy techniques, and lifestyle recommendations.
Hi, I am a PA-C that specializes in psychiatry. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve optimal well-being and am currently accepting new clients for remote appointments, offering convenient access to mental healthcare from the comfort of your own home. My area of expertise focuses on treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I believe in a holistic approach, incorporating various modalities to create a personalized treatment plan for each client. This may include medication management, therapy techniques, and lifestyle recommendations.
(231) 241-8587 View (231) 241-8587
Photo of Francisca Nwoko, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francisca Nwoko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am Nwoko Francisca, a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a distinguished healthcare professional, I have a profound commitment to excellence with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), I have an expertise that extends beyond traditional healthcare. I take a holistic approach to the treatment of a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan with an emphasis on building strong minds. A multi-faceted approach optimizes mental health care to improve overall health and mental wellness.
Hello, I am Nwoko Francisca, a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a distinguished healthcare professional, I have a profound commitment to excellence with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), I have an expertise that extends beyond traditional healthcare. I take a holistic approach to the treatment of a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan with an emphasis on building strong minds. A multi-faceted approach optimizes mental health care to improve overall health and mental wellness.
(734) 251-3830 View (734) 251-3830
Photo of Janice West, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janice West
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Janice West, PMHNP-BC. Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced.
Hello, my name is Janice West, PMHNP-BC. Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced.
(734) 375-1674 View (734) 375-1674
Photo of Joseph Ojibway, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Ojibway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Joseph Ojibway. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a holistic approach to delivering healthcare. My focus is on providing high-quality mental healthcare to underserved populations. I have years of experience serving Native American, Latino, and Veteran patient populations. As a holistic provider, I value caring for each person's mind, body, spirit, and emotions. My treatment philosophy is rooted in respect, trust, and humility. I look forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey as you experience life's highs and lows.
Hello, my name is Joseph Ojibway. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a holistic approach to delivering healthcare. My focus is on providing high-quality mental healthcare to underserved populations. I have years of experience serving Native American, Latino, and Veteran patient populations. As a holistic provider, I value caring for each person's mind, body, spirit, and emotions. My treatment philosophy is rooted in respect, trust, and humility. I look forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey as you experience life's highs and lows.
(734) 532-3533 View (734) 532-3533
Photo of Zeeshan Choudhry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zeeshan Choudhry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello my name is Zeeshan Choudhry but you can call me Zee if you like. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Michigan. My approach is is your diagnosis is not as important as finding a way to help you succeed. My approach is is your diagnosis is not as important as finding a way to help you feel better and the mind and body work together so we should try to do more than just medications and therapy.
Hello my name is Zeeshan Choudhry but you can call me Zee if you like. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of Michigan. My approach is is your diagnosis is not as important as finding a way to help you succeed. My approach is is your diagnosis is not as important as finding a way to help you feel better and the mind and body work together so we should try to do more than just medications and therapy.
(734) 336-7422 View (734) 336-7422
Photo of Ashwini Gulwadi - Ashwini Gulwadi, M.D. - PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Ashwini Gulwadi, M.D. - PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In- office and Tele-visit appointments available, Accepting new patients now. Psychiatric treatment can help with clinical symptoms and emotional concerns that cause distress and limits functioning in various aspects of life. Drawing on my medical and psychotherapy training and experience, I can offer you a treatment at a pace that is best suited for you and with the goal of working together towards creating stability and long lasting positive changes in your life. Please see my website gulwadimd.com for more details about my practice and contact information.
In- office and Tele-visit appointments available, Accepting new patients now. Psychiatric treatment can help with clinical symptoms and emotional concerns that cause distress and limits functioning in various aspects of life. Drawing on my medical and psychotherapy training and experience, I can offer you a treatment at a pace that is best suited for you and with the goal of working together towards creating stability and long lasting positive changes in your life. Please see my website gulwadimd.com for more details about my practice and contact information.
(734) 436-3821 View (734) 436-3821
Photo of Akash Kumar - Dr. Akash Kumar MD - Arbor Video Psych and ADHD, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Akash Kumar MD - Arbor Video Psych and ADHD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. Special interest in ADHD, anxiety, mood, and OCD. Therapeutic time cannot be rushed. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist, I address psychological AND medical factors by looking beyond the usual 20 psychiatric medications to investigate the underlying biological or psychological issues. Investigating may entail (based on current research): laboratory panels looking for chronic nutritional deficiencies; genetic testing (to predict what meds/supplements can help); brain scans; neuro exam; deeper forms of talk therapy
See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. Special interest in ADHD, anxiety, mood, and OCD. Therapeutic time cannot be rushed. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist, I address psychological AND medical factors by looking beyond the usual 20 psychiatric medications to investigate the underlying biological or psychological issues. Investigating may entail (based on current research): laboratory panels looking for chronic nutritional deficiencies; genetic testing (to predict what meds/supplements can help); brain scans; neuro exam; deeper forms of talk therapy
(517) 833-4110 View (517) 833-4110
Photo of James Hogle - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(701) 929-5603 View (701) 929-5603
Photo of Mansi S Mehta, PMHNP, FNP, CNL, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mansi S Mehta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, CNL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
EMAIL only (immediate openings within one week) - A true integrative psychiatry incorporates complementary/alternative/ talk therapy modalities for mind, body & soul connection. Modern Psychiatry requires a good insight into trauma informed care since we more than just diagnosis. Such trauma focused care augments safe space, enables freedom from trauma pain & ability to design future with more than just med management. In psychiatry symptoms often overlap with medical issues, so as double board-certified NP in Family Medicine & Psychiatry, I am comfortable capturing & addressing both medical and psych issues in a holistic manner.
EMAIL only (immediate openings within one week) - A true integrative psychiatry incorporates complementary/alternative/ talk therapy modalities for mind, body & soul connection. Modern Psychiatry requires a good insight into trauma informed care since we more than just diagnosis. Such trauma focused care augments safe space, enables freedom from trauma pain & ability to design future with more than just med management. In psychiatry symptoms often overlap with medical issues, so as double board-certified NP in Family Medicine & Psychiatry, I am comfortable capturing & addressing both medical and psych issues in a holistic manner.
(734) 875-9224 View (734) 875-9224
Photo of Theresa Gattari, MD, Psychiatrist
Theresa Gattari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Please visit my website to submit a contact form or send me an email through Psychology Today. I’m Dr. Theresa Gattari, a University of Michigan trained, board-certified adult psychiatrist, passionate about caring for the whole person. I specialize in ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders and use a holistic treatment approach to help you go beyond symptom reduction and thrive in your life. I consider the way your physical health, lifestyle, relationships and environment may be contributing to symptoms.
Please visit my website to submit a contact form or send me an email through Psychology Today. I’m Dr. Theresa Gattari, a University of Michigan trained, board-certified adult psychiatrist, passionate about caring for the whole person. I specialize in ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders and use a holistic treatment approach to help you go beyond symptom reduction and thrive in your life. I consider the way your physical health, lifestyle, relationships and environment may be contributing to symptoms.
(734) 999-3945 View (734) 999-3945
Photo of Stacy Meitler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Meitler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I'm a nurse practitioner with real-world experience who has worked in various settings over my 30+ years in the medical field. I'm dually certified in primary care and psychiatric care, with a specialty focus on geriatric care, dementia, adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, intellectual disability, anxiety, insomnia, nightmare disorders, and PTSD.
Hi, I'm a nurse practitioner with real-world experience who has worked in various settings over my 30+ years in the medical field. I'm dually certified in primary care and psychiatric care, with a specialty focus on geriatric care, dementia, adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, intellectual disability, anxiety, insomnia, nightmare disorders, and PTSD.
(517) 300-8814 View (517) 300-8814
Photo of Anthony E Opara, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthony E Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello and congratulations on the first step of your mental health journey! My name is Anthony Opara, Sr. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with psychiatric clients for sixteen years across my broad nursing career. This experience allows me to help restore the client to their fullest potential by helping to develop a solution that is individualized, thoughtful and non-judgmental. I take the time to help uncover the many factors that contribute to the breakdown of the client’s mental health and together, with the input of the client, develop solutions that are meaningful.
Hello and congratulations on the first step of your mental health journey! My name is Anthony Opara, Sr. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with psychiatric clients for sixteen years across my broad nursing career. This experience allows me to help restore the client to their fullest potential by helping to develop a solution that is individualized, thoughtful and non-judgmental. I take the time to help uncover the many factors that contribute to the breakdown of the client’s mental health and together, with the input of the client, develop solutions that are meaningful.
(313) 209-9917 View (313) 209-9917
Photo of Dr. Joseph Cestero, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Joseph Cestero
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Book an appointment today, click the website link —> I treat people who experience anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and other MH concerns. These issues only make maintaining your performance at work or in relationships that much more difficult. I integrate my training in psychotherapy into your appointment in an effort to not only understand you better, but to help you achieve your goals. I am a fee for service psychiatrist and do not work with insurance. I accept HSA/FSA, Credit Card, and ACH transfer as forms of payment. A superbill can be provided for OON benefits..
Book an appointment today, click the website link —> I treat people who experience anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and other MH concerns. These issues only make maintaining your performance at work or in relationships that much more difficult. I integrate my training in psychotherapy into your appointment in an effort to not only understand you better, but to help you achieve your goals. I am a fee for service psychiatrist and do not work with insurance. I accept HSA/FSA, Credit Card, and ACH transfer as forms of payment. A superbill can be provided for OON benefits..
(248) 665-8402 View (248) 665-8402
Photo of Mohammed Joz, PMHNP, -BC, APNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mohammed Joz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, APNP
Verified Verified
27 Endorsed
Online Only
I am Licensed and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP in Adult, Adolescent, and Child Psychiatry. I believe that every patient deserves the best mental health care, and it's my job to deliver it! I pride myself on going the extra mile to provide research-driven holistic care. Starting with a complete/comprehensive Initial Psychiatric Evaluation and ensuring my patient receive their medication on time. I treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, Psychotic disorders, PTSD and others conditions ... I am experienced with outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization. I also provide brief CBT, DBT, general therapy.
I am Licensed and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP in Adult, Adolescent, and Child Psychiatry. I believe that every patient deserves the best mental health care, and it's my job to deliver it! I pride myself on going the extra mile to provide research-driven holistic care. Starting with a complete/comprehensive Initial Psychiatric Evaluation and ensuring my patient receive their medication on time. I treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, Psychotic disorders, PTSD and others conditions ... I am experienced with outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization. I also provide brief CBT, DBT, general therapy.
(248) 983-1070 View (248) 983-1070
Photo of Rebecca Greer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.
Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.
(313) 425-8197 View (313) 425-8197
Photo of Carter Doyle, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carter Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help clients find relief through therapy and wholistic treatment plans that can include medication management. Together we will gently dig beneath the surface of pain and distress, and begin to work towards a deep wholeness and healing. We work together to find the roots of pain and distress, and then provide help and healing to those parts that need care. I practice by the mantra "Be curious, not judgmental."
I help clients find relief through therapy and wholistic treatment plans that can include medication management. Together we will gently dig beneath the surface of pain and distress, and begin to work towards a deep wholeness and healing. We work together to find the roots of pain and distress, and then provide help and healing to those parts that need care. I practice by the mantra "Be curious, not judgmental."
(734) 316-4168 View (734) 316-4168
Photo of Mfon Essien, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mfon Essien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello, My name is Mfon Essien. I am psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I attended Walden University and attained my PMHNP.
Hello, My name is Mfon Essien. I am psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I attended Walden University and attained my PMHNP.
(313) 825-4818 View (313) 825-4818
Photo of Jennifer Berry, MSN , PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jennifer and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Michigan. I specialize in anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), insomnia & sleep issues, maternal mental health/pre/postpartum, infertility, women’s issues, life transitions, college student mental health, grief, family issues, race & cultural identity, relationship issues, and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jennifer and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Michigan. I specialize in anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), insomnia & sleep issues, maternal mental health/pre/postpartum, infertility, women’s issues, life transitions, college student mental health, grief, family issues, race & cultural identity, relationship issues, and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(248) 617-6966 View (248) 617-6966
Photo of Dr. Ravi Kirbat - Center for Family Psychiatry , Psychiatrist
Center for Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At The Center for Family Psychiatry (CFFP), we assist individuals facing various challenges, including everyday issues, mental health concerns, and relationship difficulties. Our experienced team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and social workers focuses on building respectful relationships with those seeking to enhance their mental health. Committed to excellence, we provide tailored and comprehensive care to meet each person's unique needs from ages 13 and up.
At The Center for Family Psychiatry (CFFP), we assist individuals facing various challenges, including everyday issues, mental health concerns, and relationship difficulties. Our experienced team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and social workers focuses on building respectful relationships with those seeking to enhance their mental health. Committed to excellence, we provide tailored and comprehensive care to meet each person's unique needs from ages 13 and up.
(734) 275-3594 View (734) 275-3594

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 48197

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 48197 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
95% Depression
75% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
60% Medication Management
60% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 48197 see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

53% Male
47% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 48197?

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.