Psychiatrists in 49286

Photo of Arielle Stone, MD, Psychiatrist
Arielle Stone
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and board eligible child and adolescent psychiatrist. I provide full psychiatric services, including evaluation, consultation, and treatment using evidence-based approaches. Conditions treated include: Mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, abuse and attachment issues and trauma.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and board eligible child and adolescent psychiatrist. I provide full psychiatric services, including evaluation, consultation, and treatment using evidence-based approaches. Conditions treated include: Mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, abuse and attachment issues and trauma.
(586) 204-1536 View (586) 204-1536

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Andrew Leblanc, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrew Leblanc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
About me: I am a ABPN Board-Certified Psychiatrist and did my residency as the University of Michigan, where I served as outpatient chief resident.
About me: I am a ABPN Board-Certified Psychiatrist and did my residency as the University of Michigan, where I served as outpatient chief resident.
(734) 304-7199 View (734) 304-7199
Photo of Angela Braun - Arbor Video Psych and ADHD, PAC, Physician Assistant
Arbor Video Psych and ADHD
Physician Assistant, PAC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book an online appointment at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUS: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, PTSD. While I employ research based diagnostic and treatment modalities, my training goes far beyond this to encompass expertise both on the medical side and psychiatric side. I have additional trainings, including with Dr. Akash Kumar MD known for his multi layered diagnostic approach to assess nutritional, medical, psychiatric, and cognitive dimensions. Because of my background, I am uniquely able to look at the oft missed root causes of subtle medical conditions that contribute to emotional difficulty.
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book an online appointment at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUS: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, PTSD. While I employ research based diagnostic and treatment modalities, my training goes far beyond this to encompass expertise both on the medical side and psychiatric side. I have additional trainings, including with Dr. Akash Kumar MD known for his multi layered diagnostic approach to assess nutritional, medical, psychiatric, and cognitive dimensions. Because of my background, I am uniquely able to look at the oft missed root causes of subtle medical conditions that contribute to emotional difficulty.
(810) 641-1749 x1 View (810) 641-1749 x1
Photo of Stephen Colon M D, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephen Colon M D
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Hi, I'm Dr. Colon. I'm a certified Integrative Psychiatrist. I provide holistic, highly personalized treatment that combines the best of Modern Medicine and Alternative/Complementary Medicine. I listen closely & get to know your goals and preferences. My approach is gentle, compassionate, & trauma-informed. Available treatments include psychotherapy, coaching, education, medication, natural supplements, nutrition, meditation, mind-body techniques, lifestyle medicine, exercise & more. I also specialize in working with neurodiverse adults including ADHD & ASD (Autism Spectrum / Asperger's). Let's work together to achieve your goals!
Hi, I'm Dr. Colon. I'm a certified Integrative Psychiatrist. I provide holistic, highly personalized treatment that combines the best of Modern Medicine and Alternative/Complementary Medicine. I listen closely & get to know your goals and preferences. My approach is gentle, compassionate, & trauma-informed. Available treatments include psychotherapy, coaching, education, medication, natural supplements, nutrition, meditation, mind-body techniques, lifestyle medicine, exercise & more. I also specialize in working with neurodiverse adults including ADHD & ASD (Autism Spectrum / Asperger's). Let's work together to achieve your goals!
(734) 206-7954 View (734) 206-7954
Photo of Gloria Egeh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gloria Egeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Gloria Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. Gloria's treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them. In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.
Gloria Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. Gloria's treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them. In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.
(810) 442-4172 View (810) 442-4172
Photo of Dr. Joseph Cestero, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Joseph Cestero
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I treat working professionals who experience burnout, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences or ADHD symptoms. These issues only make maintaining your performance at work and relationships at home 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. Click my booking link to the right for availability and fees information.
I treat working professionals who experience burnout, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences or ADHD symptoms. These issues only make maintaining your performance at work and relationships at home 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. Click my booking link to the right for availability and fees information.
(248) 665-8402 View (248) 665-8402
Photo of Lindsay Rose Dunstan, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Lindsay Rose Dunstan
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a queer prison/police abolitionist. I enjoy working with folx with neurodivergent conditions and marginalized identities. I treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD, using both narrative and somatic approaches. I love helping others build daily wellness practices, including mindfulness meditation, yoga, creative expression, and self-compassion.
I am a queer prison/police abolitionist. I enjoy working with folx with neurodivergent conditions and marginalized identities. I treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD, using both narrative and somatic approaches. I love helping others build daily wellness practices, including mindfulness meditation, yoga, creative expression, and self-compassion.
(313) 456-9932 View (313) 456-9932
Photo of Brian Phillips, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brian Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
See openings and book an intake (I usually have openings within a week) at AnnArborPsych.com. I specialize in ADHD, a range of anxiety disorders, mood, and impulsivity. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I think of myself as a passionate nurse, care-giver, and patient advocate first, and a prescriber second. Good mental health care begins with listening to the patient. I have engaged in a considerable amount of additional training and supervision after completing my specialty in psychiatry. For years I have worked along side Dr. Akash Kumar MD and we are both passionate about staying on the cutting edge of psychiatric medicine.
See openings and book an intake (I usually have openings within a week) at AnnArborPsych.com. I specialize in ADHD, a range of anxiety disorders, mood, and impulsivity. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I think of myself as a passionate nurse, care-giver, and patient advocate first, and a prescriber second. Good mental health care begins with listening to the patient. I have engaged in a considerable amount of additional training and supervision after completing my specialty in psychiatry. For years I have worked along side Dr. Akash Kumar MD and we are both passionate about staying on the cutting edge of psychiatric medicine.
(734) 315-2256 View (734) 315-2256
Photo of Dr. Ravi Kirbat - Center for Family Psychiatry , Psychiatrist
Center for Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Saline, MI 48176
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
Photo of Luke Krupski, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Luke Krupski
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
About me: I am a NCCPA Certified Physician Assistant who graduated from Concordia University, Ann Arbor with a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies.
About me: I am a NCCPA Certified Physician Assistant who graduated from Concordia University, Ann Arbor with a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies.
(734) 259-7351 View (734) 259-7351
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 Dr. Anjuli Shah, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
View
Photo of Dr. Robert John Lagrou - New Oakland Family Centers, DO, Psychiatrist
New Oakland Family Centers
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
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 Jean Thayer, NP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jean Thayer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of knowledge treating Depression, Mood Disorders, Crisis Intervention, Anxiety and Psychosis. I also treat adults ages and older. I use a Holistic approach and establish a therapeutic and fulfilling rapport with all of my clients.
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner. I have a wide range of knowledge treating Depression, Mood Disorders, Crisis Intervention, Anxiety and Psychosis. I also treat adults ages and older. I use a Holistic approach and establish a therapeutic and fulfilling rapport with all of my clients.
(734) 876-8334 View (734) 876-8334
Photo of Carter Doyle, MSN, PMHNP, CCISM, EMT-P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carter Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CCISM, EMT-P
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I believe in caring for the whole person. I do this through an Internal Family Systems therapy lens, assessing, diagnosing, and caring for mental health concerns. Sometimes this means prescribing medication, and other times it means working together in psychotherapy to find the roots of pain.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I believe in caring for the whole person. I do this through an Internal Family Systems therapy lens, assessing, diagnosing, and caring for mental health concerns. Sometimes this means prescribing medication, and other times it means working together in psychotherapy to find the roots of pain.
(734) 259-7856 View (734) 259-7856
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
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
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 Robert Francis Slattery, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Francis Slattery
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I am a licensed MD and psychiatrist in the private practice of psychotherapy and psychiatry in Ann Arbor, Michigan with a special interest in Jungian psychotherapy. Services offered include psychotherapy, psychiatric diagnosis, and treatment. With more than 30 years in private practice, I have worked with people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities who are faced with serious challenges or just looking to live life in a better way, do the things they want to do and enjoy life more.
I am a licensed MD and psychiatrist in the private practice of psychotherapy and psychiatry in Ann Arbor, Michigan with a special interest in Jungian psychotherapy. Services offered include psychotherapy, psychiatric diagnosis, and treatment. With more than 30 years in private practice, I have worked with people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities who are faced with serious challenges or just looking to live life in a better way, do the things they want to do and enjoy life more.
(734) 224-5347 View (734) 224-5347
Photo of Akash Kumar - Green Arbor Psych, MD, Psychiatrist
Green Arbor Psych
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book a video appointment online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUS: ADHD, Social and General Anxiety, Depression, Mood Swings, Impulse Control, OCD, and PTSD. I investigate for root causes of symptoms and have trained with Dr. Akash Kumar MD on his multi layered diagnostic approach to looking at nutritional, medical, psychiatric, and cognitive dimensions. With this background, we can find underlying often missed subtle conditions that contribute to symptoms.
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book a video appointment online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUS: ADHD, Social and General Anxiety, Depression, Mood Swings, Impulse Control, OCD, and PTSD. I investigate for root causes of symptoms and have trained with Dr. Akash Kumar MD on his multi layered diagnostic approach to looking at nutritional, medical, psychiatric, and cognitive dimensions. With this background, we can find underlying often missed subtle conditions that contribute to symptoms.
(734) 749-9816 x1 View (734) 749-9816 x1
Photo of Harry Rai, MD, Psychiatrist
Harry Rai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Currently accepting new patient consultations (Updated January 2024). I believe my role as a Psychiatrist is not to cure but instead to join my patients on their unique paths to mental wellness. Having trained at the University of Michigan, I take an evidence-based approach to mental health. However, in addition to traditional medication management, I have studied multiple forms of psychotherapy, opened myself to wellness-based methods, explored complex topics with patients from race to spirituality, and remain open to learning more approaches to mental healthcare.
Currently accepting new patient consultations (Updated January 2024). I believe my role as a Psychiatrist is not to cure but instead to join my patients on their unique paths to mental wellness. Having trained at the University of Michigan, I take an evidence-based approach to mental health. However, in addition to traditional medication management, I have studied multiple forms of psychotherapy, opened myself to wellness-based methods, explored complex topics with patients from race to spirituality, and remain open to learning more approaches to mental healthcare.
(734) 203-0117 View (734) 203-0117
Photo of Marisa Zenas, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Marisa Zenas
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
My name is Marisa and I am a physician assistant with extensive experience in psychiatry. I hold a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Psychiatry and specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each individual’s needs, focusing on conditions like mood disorders, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and more. At Huron River Psychiatry, I’m committed to providing supportive care that empowers you or your child to achieve better mental health.
My name is Marisa and I am a physician assistant with extensive experience in psychiatry. I hold a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Psychiatry and specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each individual’s needs, focusing on conditions like mood disorders, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and more. At Huron River Psychiatry, I’m committed to providing supportive care that empowers you or your child to achieve better mental health.
(734) 780-7080 View (734) 780-7080

See more therapy options for 49286

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 49286

< 10

Psychiatrists in 49286 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in 49286 see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 49286?

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.