Psychiatrists in 48230

Photo of Heather Castile, FNP-BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Castile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, DNP
Verified Verified
Heather is an advocate for patient centered holistic care and how mental wellbeing is also related to your physical health. With her experiences as a neurology and intensive care registered nurse in the inpatient setting, she has grown a passion for bridging gaps in healthcare. Heather believes in collaboration-based care incorporating psychotherapy and medication when needed. Her goal as a provider is to create an individualized treatment plan leading you to a path of self-empowerment.
Heather is an advocate for patient centered holistic care and how mental wellbeing is also related to your physical health. With her experiences as a neurology and intensive care registered nurse in the inpatient setting, she has grown a passion for bridging gaps in healthcare. Heather believes in collaboration-based care incorporating psychotherapy and medication when needed. Her goal as a provider is to create an individualized treatment plan leading you to a path of self-empowerment.
(313) 986-4940 View (313) 986-4940
Photo of Priscilla Jimenez, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Priscilla Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Michigan. I completed my Masters of Nursing Education from Oakland University and received my Post Master’s Certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University. My personal passion and experience, combined with over 12 years of bedside Nursing experience has led me to the field of Psychiatry . My mission is to aid clients along their individual journey of Mental Health
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Michigan. I completed my Masters of Nursing Education from Oakland University and received my Post Master’s Certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University. My personal passion and experience, combined with over 12 years of bedside Nursing experience has led me to the field of Psychiatry . My mission is to aid clients along their individual journey of Mental Health
(734) 977-1182 View (734) 977-1182

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Anthony E Opara, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthony E Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48202
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 Sneha Bency, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Sneha Bency
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As a board-certified Physician Associate with a focus in Psychiatry, I am dedicated to providing compassionate care to those navigating their mental health journey. My practice focuses on individuals who have difficulty accessing care, especially those facing cultural barriers, such as marginalized groups, immigrants, minorities, and other underserved communities. I understand the challenges of finding a sense of belonging in a new environment, and I am passionate about creating safe spaces where all patients can feel accepted and understood.
As a board-certified Physician Associate with a focus in Psychiatry, I am dedicated to providing compassionate care to those navigating their mental health journey. My practice focuses on individuals who have difficulty accessing care, especially those facing cultural barriers, such as marginalized groups, immigrants, minorities, and other underserved communities. I understand the challenges of finding a sense of belonging in a new environment, and I am passionate about creating safe spaces where all patients can feel accepted and understood.
(248) 988-9712 View (248) 988-9712
Photo of Lee Diener, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lee Diener
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I offer my services through Headway, collaborating with teenagers over 18, adults and older adults to work through a wide range of difficulties that are a part of the human experience: mood and anxiety related concerns, sleep difficulties, life transitions, identity questions, loss and grief, social anxiety, PTSD or traumatic events. I am in the credentialing process and as of 10/2/24 am in-network with United Healthcare, Oxford, Oscar, Aetna, Cigna and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Virtual Network. I do not currently accept Medicaid or Medicare.
I offer my services through Headway, collaborating with teenagers over 18, adults and older adults to work through a wide range of difficulties that are a part of the human experience: mood and anxiety related concerns, sleep difficulties, life transitions, identity questions, loss and grief, social anxiety, PTSD or traumatic events. I am in the credentialing process and as of 10/2/24 am in-network with United Healthcare, Oxford, Oscar, Aetna, Cigna and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Virtual Network. I do not currently accept Medicaid or Medicare.
(616) 449-2432 View (616) 449-2432
Photo of Kamera Boggon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kamera Boggon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48034
Kamera Boggon, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting adults and seniors in Michigan through medication management and mindfulnessbased interventions. She works with individuals aged 18 and older, offering personalized care to help patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve emotional balance. Kameras clinical expertise focuses on addressing anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disordersinsomnia, creating a safe and supportive environment for patients seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.
Kamera Boggon, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting adults and seniors in Michigan through medication management and mindfulnessbased interventions. She works with individuals aged 18 and older, offering personalized care to help patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve emotional balance. Kameras clinical expertise focuses on addressing anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disordersinsomnia, creating a safe and supportive environment for patients seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.
(947) 222-1439 View (947) 222-1439
Photo of Julie Kuebler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Kuebler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 20 years of experience. I have a broad range of experiences, including both inpatient and outpatient care, and have worked in various settings involving medication management of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, women's health, adolescent psychiatry, crisis management, care management, geriatric psychiatry, and psychology. In my role as an NP, I have also developed programs for self-management of chronic illness and depression disease management.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 20 years of experience. I have a broad range of experiences, including both inpatient and outpatient care, and have worked in various settings involving medication management of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, women's health, adolescent psychiatry, crisis management, care management, geriatric psychiatry, and psychology. In my role as an NP, I have also developed programs for self-management of chronic illness and depression disease management.
(248) 453-9247 View (248) 453-9247
Photo of Neil Talon, MD, Psychiatrist
Neil Talon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Neil S. Talon, MD Dr. Neil S. Talon is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 1981. He earned his BA at the University of Michigan, went to Columbia University Medical School, and completed his Psychiatric Residency at Cornell. Dr. Talon is experienced in general adult psychiatry and has practiced in office- and hospital-based settings. He has many years of experience treating people with bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders of adults to geriatrics.
Dr. Neil S. Talon, MD Dr. Neil S. Talon is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 1981. He earned his BA at the University of Michigan, went to Columbia University Medical School, and completed his Psychiatric Residency at Cornell. Dr. Talon is experienced in general adult psychiatry and has practiced in office- and hospital-based settings. He has many years of experience treating people with bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders of adults to geriatrics.
(248) 900-1633 View (248) 900-1633
Photo of Howard Belkin - Howard and Barbara Belkin, M.D., MD, DDS, JD, Psychiatrist
Howard and Barbara Belkin, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD, DDS, JD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
WE NOW OFFER APPOINTMENTS THROUGH FACETIME AND TELEHEALTH VIDEO CONFERENCING. Without needing to download an app, you can see the psychiatrist through your iPhone, iPad, Android, or Google phone as well as through your Windows or Apple computer in the comfort of your home, school, or office. Our office specializes in the practice of psychiatry, counseling, and therapy for adults, adolescents, and children. We are conveniently located in Birmingham with on-site parking with convenient office hours. Please contact the office at (248) 644-3605 for information about scheduling an appointment through video conferencing.
WE NOW OFFER APPOINTMENTS THROUGH FACETIME AND TELEHEALTH VIDEO CONFERENCING. Without needing to download an app, you can see the psychiatrist through your iPhone, iPad, Android, or Google phone as well as through your Windows or Apple computer in the comfort of your home, school, or office. Our office specializes in the practice of psychiatry, counseling, and therapy for adults, adolescents, and children. We are conveniently located in Birmingham with on-site parking with convenient office hours. Please contact the office at (248) 644-3605 for information about scheduling an appointment through video conferencing.
(248) 644-3605 View (248) 644-3605
Photo of Keyana Collins, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keyana Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CCM
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Keyana Collins, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CCM, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
My name is Keyana Collins, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CCM, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
(904) 944-5136 View (904) 944-5136
Photo of Jennifer Marie Bowden - Jennifer Bowden Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Bowden Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Parents want their children to thrive in life. They can feel helpless and frightened when their children suffer from mental health concerns. Seeking mental health care can also feel overwhelming. Parents want to feel confident in finding a doctor who they can trust to educate them and their children on accurate diagnosis and the risks and benefits of the most evidence-based treatment options for their children.
Parents want their children to thrive in life. They can feel helpless and frightened when their children suffer from mental health concerns. Seeking mental health care can also feel overwhelming. Parents want to feel confident in finding a doctor who they can trust to educate them and their children on accurate diagnosis and the risks and benefits of the most evidence-based treatment options for their children.
(616) 557-7576 View (616) 557-7576
Photo of Natalie Jones-Brown, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalie Jones-Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
My practice is deeply rooted in the extensive work I’ve done with typically underserved populations throughout Metro Detroit; people who are HIV positive, LGBTQ+ individuals, victims of sexual assault/trafficking, and those struggling with gender dysphoria. Years of experience, both personally and professionally, have driven me to orient my work around the intersectionalities between mental health and identity. Having worked in both traditional and non-traditional settings, I’m able to adapt my approach and style to unique patients and situations.
My practice is deeply rooted in the extensive work I’ve done with typically underserved populations throughout Metro Detroit; people who are HIV positive, LGBTQ+ individuals, victims of sexual assault/trafficking, and those struggling with gender dysphoria. Years of experience, both personally and professionally, have driven me to orient my work around the intersectionalities between mental health and identity. Having worked in both traditional and non-traditional settings, I’m able to adapt my approach and style to unique patients and situations.
(248) 283-4814 View (248) 283-4814
Photo of Dr. Abby Johnson-Briles - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
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.
(586) 701-8495 View (586) 701-8495
Photo of Umeika Stephens, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Umeika Stephens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As a Detroit native, she is acutely aware of the mental and physical health care needs in the community and the disparities that impact patients' access to culturally sensitive mental health services. My goal is to listen and help patients set goals and receive treatments that help them to become the versions of themselves. I believe that care occurs as a team effort with the patient as the expert in their lived experience. I offer pharmacogenetic testing for medications and truly strive to create patient centered care atmosphere.
As a Detroit native, she is acutely aware of the mental and physical health care needs in the community and the disparities that impact patients' access to culturally sensitive mental health services. My goal is to listen and help patients set goals and receive treatments that help them to become the versions of themselves. I believe that care occurs as a team effort with the patient as the expert in their lived experience. I offer pharmacogenetic testing for medications and truly strive to create patient centered care atmosphere.
(248) 574-8029 View (248) 574-8029
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 Alexis Lykins, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Lykins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - Are you searching for a professional who is passionate about working collaboratively with you toward a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and helps accomplish your mental health goals? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners who provides medication consultation and management, along with other mental health services, I enjoy treating the underlying causes of symptoms and concerns, and often implement nutritional, behavioral, and lifestyle modifications as part of my practice.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - Are you searching for a professional who is passionate about working collaboratively with you toward a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and helps accomplish your mental health goals? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners who provides medication consultation and management, along with other mental health services, I enjoy treating the underlying causes of symptoms and concerns, and often implement nutritional, behavioral, and lifestyle modifications as part of my practice.
(586) 846-4835 View (586) 846-4835
Photo of Uche Obua - Apex Wellness Center, PMHNP, DNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Apex Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, PhD
Verified Verified
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
Photo of Nina Ross - Artemis Reproductive Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Artemis Reproductive Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause can be times of significant vulnerability to mental health issues. As a reproductive psychiatrist, I offer compassionate and holistic support to women during these times through medication management and therapy.
Pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause can be times of significant vulnerability to mental health issues. As a reproductive psychiatrist, I offer compassionate and holistic support to women during these times through medication management and therapy.
(248) 965-5947 View (248) 965-5947
Sterling Institute Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Sterling Institute welcomes you to our customer service oriented practice where your health, comfort and well-being are always a priority.
Sterling Institute welcomes you to our customer service oriented practice where your health, comfort and well-being are always a priority.
(475) 255-2105 View (475) 255-2105
Photo of Curtis Leipold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Curtis Leipold
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Curtis Leipold is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse over 15 years of experience in healthcare. Curtis obtained his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Purdue University and is a recent graduate from Wayne State University where he obtained his master's degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, bipolar, childhood behavioral issues, and panic disorders. Curtis treats patient between the ages of 10 and 75. Curtis has experience managing psychiatric medications for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Curtis uses a holistic approach to treat clients.
Curtis Leipold is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse over 15 years of experience in healthcare. Curtis obtained his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Purdue University and is a recent graduate from Wayne State University where he obtained his master's degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, bipolar, childhood behavioral issues, and panic disorders. Curtis treats patient between the ages of 10 and 75. Curtis has experience managing psychiatric medications for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Curtis uses a holistic approach to treat clients.
(248) 609-6050 View (248) 609-6050

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 48230

< 10

Psychiatrists in 48230 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Stress
50% ADHD
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Anger Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medicare
100% Blue Care Network

How Psychiatrists in 48230 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 48230?

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.