Psychiatrists in 49525

If you are feeling down, overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself, have a hard time concentrating, wondering what needs to be done. Chichi believes in helping you figure it out and will work with you to plan the best care that suits you. I am a mental health nurse practitioner and I provide medication management for various mental health conditions. I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.
If you are feeling down, overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself, have a hard time concentrating, wondering what needs to be done. Chichi believes in helping you figure it out and will work with you to plan the best care that suits you. I am a mental health nurse practitioner and I provide medication management for various mental health conditions. I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.

Cassandra Gagliardo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Cassandra is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. Cassandra possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Cassandra’s role is multifaceted and includes a holistic perspective with each patient she encounters.
Cassandra is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. Cassandra possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Cassandra’s role is multifaceted and includes a holistic perspective with each patient she encounters.

Sarah Grohowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Sarah is a highly qualified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and adult-geriatric nurse practitioner (AGNP) with extensive experience spanning over 15 years in various healthcare settings. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Grand Valley State University in 2009, followed by a master's degree (AGNP) in nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2015. Subsequently, she pursued a post-master's degree (PMHNP) from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2019, and furthered her education with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the same institution in 2023.
Sarah is a highly qualified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and adult-geriatric nurse practitioner (AGNP) with extensive experience spanning over 15 years in various healthcare settings. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Grand Valley State University in 2009, followed by a master's degree (AGNP) in nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2015. Subsequently, she pursued a post-master's degree (PMHNP) from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2019, and furthered her education with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the same institution in 2023.

I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She has been working in the mental health and medical fields since 2006. She holds a Bachelor's degree from GVSU, her PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati, and her FNP from Walden University. My primary role is to provide psychiatric medication management services to clients. I collaborate with a psychiatrist to provide evaluation, monitoring, education, and medication intervention.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She has been working in the mental health and medical fields since 2006. She holds a Bachelor's degree from GVSU, her PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati, and her FNP from Walden University. My primary role is to provide psychiatric medication management services to clients. I collaborate with a psychiatrist to provide evaluation, monitoring, education, and medication intervention.

Denise is a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Grand Valley State University, her associate degree in Nursing from Grand Rapids Community College, her master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2005 and her post-master’s certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati in 2017.
Denise is a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Grand Valley State University, her associate degree in Nursing from Grand Rapids Community College, her master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2005 and her post-master’s certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati in 2017.

Rachel is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ferris State University in 2014 and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2021. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and expanding access to care. Rachel possesses strong clinical skills as well as a natural ability to build rapport with patients.
Rachel is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ferris State University in 2014 and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2021. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services and expanding access to care. Rachel possesses strong clinical skills as well as a natural ability to build rapport with patients.

Gladys Kuik is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2023. She obtained her Licensed Practical Nursing and Registered Nurse Diplomas from Hawkeye Community College, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Allen College, and her Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Indiana Wesleyan University. Gladys intends to see clients who have a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD. Outside of work, Gladys enjoys watching action movies, especially in the theatres or with friends.
Gladys Kuik is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2023. She obtained her Licensed Practical Nursing and Registered Nurse Diplomas from Hawkeye Community College, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Allen College, and her Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Indiana Wesleyan University. Gladys intends to see clients who have a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD. Outside of work, Gladys enjoys watching action movies, especially in the theatres or with friends.

Jeffrey Veldman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. He offers an open and trusting environment, accompanied by a profound respect for each client’s personal beliefs and preferences. His approach is empathetic, goal-oriented and encouraging of the mind, body and spirit connection. He is ready to help and would be honored to be a part of your journey to healing and peace. Outside of work, Jeffrey enjoys flight and aviation, music, guitar, foreign excursions, and the outdoors.
Jeffrey Veldman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. He offers an open and trusting environment, accompanied by a profound respect for each client’s personal beliefs and preferences. His approach is empathetic, goal-oriented and encouraging of the mind, body and spirit connection. He is ready to help and would be honored to be a part of your journey to healing and peace. Outside of work, Jeffrey enjoys flight and aviation, music, guitar, foreign excursions, and the outdoors.
Madisen Duncan, APN, is a compassionate and skilled mental health provider at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Michigan. She specializes in helping individuals navigate complex mental health challenges, offering both individual therapy and medication management. Madisen works with patients of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults, to address a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. Her approach combines clinical expertise with empathy, ensuring each patient feels heard and supported in their journey toward improved mental wellbeing.
Madisen Duncan, APN, is a compassionate and skilled mental health provider at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Michigan. She specializes in helping individuals navigate complex mental health challenges, offering both individual therapy and medication management. Madisen works with patients of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults, to address a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. Her approach combines clinical expertise with empathy, ensuring each patient feels heard and supported in their journey toward improved mental wellbeing.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a Medication-Free treatment for Depression, anxiety, OCD, as well as other neurological and psychiatric illnesses. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, safe, and effective non-drug depression treatment for patients who are not satisfied with the results of standard drug or talk therapy. This novel treatment option provides benefits without the side effects often associated with antidepressant medication. Treatments can be completed in as little as 5 days with our new accelerated program.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a Medication-Free treatment for Depression, anxiety, OCD, as well as other neurological and psychiatric illnesses. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, safe, and effective non-drug depression treatment for patients who are not satisfied with the results of standard drug or talk therapy. This novel treatment option provides benefits without the side effects often associated with antidepressant medication. Treatments can be completed in as little as 5 days with our new accelerated program.

Accepting anyone age 6 years old and older. Mental Health is a passion for her, Jemila is here to listen and collaborate with you to find a treatment plan that fits you best. Jemila has worked with ages 6 and up and diverse backgrounds. She sees patients with all mental health diagnosis mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma and stress related disorders, and dissociative disorders.
Accepting anyone age 6 years old and older. Mental Health is a passion for her, Jemila is here to listen and collaborate with you to find a treatment plan that fits you best. Jemila has worked with ages 6 and up and diverse backgrounds. She sees patients with all mental health diagnosis mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma and stress related disorders, and dissociative disorders.

Candice Slizewski is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2023. She has been a registered nurse for more than 9 years and has worked in a trauma ER as well as in mental health case management and intensive mental health case management. Candice graduated with her MSN in February 2023 from Walden State University and become a board certified PMHNP in April of 2023. Candice uses her knowledge, training, and experience to relate to clients on a more personal level.
Candice Slizewski is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2023. She has been a registered nurse for more than 9 years and has worked in a trauma ER as well as in mental health case management and intensive mental health case management. Candice graduated with her MSN in February 2023 from Walden State University and become a board certified PMHNP in April of 2023. Candice uses her knowledge, training, and experience to relate to clients on a more personal level.

Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. She is currently accepting patients aged 6 years and older adults. Elizabeth offers an open and trusting environment, accompanied by a profound respect for each client’s personal beliefs and preferences. Her approach is empathetic, goal-oriented and encouraging of the mind, body, and spirit connection. Elizabeth is ready to help and would be honored to be a part of your journey to healing and peace.
Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. She is currently accepting patients aged 6 years and older adults. Elizabeth offers an open and trusting environment, accompanied by a profound respect for each client’s personal beliefs and preferences. Her approach is empathetic, goal-oriented and encouraging of the mind, body, and spirit connection. Elizabeth is ready to help and would be honored to be a part of your journey to healing and peace.

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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Life can be uncertain. Whether it is job loss, relationship problems, trauma, or loss of a loved one, it can lead to depression, stress, and anxiety. People want a better quality of life and be able to cope. Located just north of Grand Rapids, Veritas Psychiatry offers mental health services to people from all around Michigan in person and virtually for alternating appointments after the Initial Evaluation. If you are from out of state, all sessions are in person. At Veritas we integrate all three aspects of our being: Mind, Body, and Spirit. Please give us a call. We would love to help you.
Life can be uncertain. Whether it is job loss, relationship problems, trauma, or loss of a loved one, it can lead to depression, stress, and anxiety. People want a better quality of life and be able to cope. Located just north of Grand Rapids, Veritas Psychiatry offers mental health services to people from all around Michigan in person and virtually for alternating appointments after the Initial Evaluation. If you are from out of state, all sessions are in person. At Veritas we integrate all three aspects of our being: Mind, Body, and Spirit. Please give us a call. We would love to help you.

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the person you want to be? At Granada Psychiatry, I work with individuals who are ready to take control of their mental health and reclaim their sense of purpose. My ideal clients are adults and adolescents navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or substance abuse. They seek a safe, judgment-free space to be heard and understood while working towards lasting change. Whether you're struggling to find balance, battling feelings of hopelessness, or managing complex mental health conditions, my goal is to help you uncover the tools and resilience you already
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the person you want to be? At Granada Psychiatry, I work with individuals who are ready to take control of their mental health and reclaim their sense of purpose. My ideal clients are adults and adolescents navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or substance abuse. They seek a safe, judgment-free space to be heard and understood while working towards lasting change. Whether you're struggling to find balance, battling feelings of hopelessness, or managing complex mental health conditions, my goal is to help you uncover the tools and resilience you already

Rise Psychiatric Services (Online Mental Health)
Physician Assistant, LPC, PA-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
With over 20 years experience in the field, I have a deep understanding of the needs, struggles and hopes of my patients, as well as that which heals and inspires them. I believe clients benefit most from an engaged partner on their journey, rather than a passive listener. I believe that you are the expert on you, and as a counselor and PA, my goal is to help you find the answers and hope inside of you to heal. I believe that people are individuals and should be treated as such, so I do not employ a cookie cutter approach to treatment. My clients truly value that.
With over 20 years experience in the field, I have a deep understanding of the needs, struggles and hopes of my patients, as well as that which heals and inspires them. I believe clients benefit most from an engaged partner on their journey, rather than a passive listener. I believe that you are the expert on you, and as a counselor and PA, my goal is to help you find the answers and hope inside of you to heal. I believe that people are individuals and should be treated as such, so I do not employ a cookie cutter approach to treatment. My clients truly value that.

Hello! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with experience working-in the psychiatric field working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with experience working-in the psychiatric field working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.

Hi! I am a PA in psychiatry and am accepting new clients remotely. Remote visits are convenient and allow you to take the appointment from your phone or home according to your schedule. Have you been diagnosed with or suspect that you have anxiety, depression, insomnia? Do you desire wellness and peace, but find that there are obstacles that are difficult to navigate. Obstacles such as ADHD, OCD, or mood swings. Have you felt unheard or misunderstood by doctors and therapists? Or do you want to figure out what's going on with your thoughts and/or behaviors? Here is where you'll find support for change!
Hi! I am a PA in psychiatry and am accepting new clients remotely. Remote visits are convenient and allow you to take the appointment from your phone or home according to your schedule. Have you been diagnosed with or suspect that you have anxiety, depression, insomnia? Do you desire wellness and peace, but find that there are obstacles that are difficult to navigate. Obstacles such as ADHD, OCD, or mood swings. Have you felt unheard or misunderstood by doctors and therapists? Or do you want to figure out what's going on with your thoughts and/or behaviors? Here is where you'll find support for change!

I am Licensed and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. At EZ TelePsych we believe that every patient deserves the best mental health care, and it's our job to deliver it! We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to provide research-driven holistic psychiatric care. www.eztelepsych.com for more information and to book an appointment.
I am Licensed and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. At EZ TelePsych we believe that every patient deserves the best mental health care, and it's our job to deliver it! We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to provide research-driven holistic psychiatric care. www.eztelepsych.com for more information and to book an appointment.
See more therapy options for 49525
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 49525
10+
Average cost per session
$155
Psychiatrists in 49525 who prioritize treating:
71% | Depression |
71% | Anxiety |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
43% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
23 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
85% | Aetna |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 49525 see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
90% | Female | |
10% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 49525?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.