Psychiatrists in 63103

Photo of Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63103
The most gratifying thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life. There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness. I’m a proud member of the Provident Behavioral Health team, an agency that offers not only psychiatric services but also counseling and crisis services. I currently offer telemental health appointments for Missouri residents, making services accessible and convenient for you.
The most gratifying thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life. There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness. I’m a proud member of the Provident Behavioral Health team, an agency that offers not only psychiatric services but also counseling and crisis services. I currently offer telemental health appointments for Missouri residents, making services accessible and convenient for you.
(573) 955-0046 View (573) 955-0046
Photo of Tanja Johnson Pmhnp-Bc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, ENP-C
Tanja Johnson Pmhnp-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, ENP-C
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63103
Waitlist for new clients
For me, there is no greater gift than to be able to serve others and assist them on their journey to greater mental and physical health. The impact when one is out of balance with the other is incredibly profound and affects not just the individual, but whole families. I cannot turn my back on the need I have seen for improved overall quality of life and how I might be able to help facilitate it. Through the collaborative efforts of Provident Behavioral Health’s team, providing services that include medication prescribing, counseling, and crisis intervention, together we can aid in the improvement of our community’s overall health.
For me, there is no greater gift than to be able to serve others and assist them on their journey to greater mental and physical health. The impact when one is out of balance with the other is incredibly profound and affects not just the individual, but whole families. I cannot turn my back on the need I have seen for improved overall quality of life and how I might be able to help facilitate it. Through the collaborative efforts of Provident Behavioral Health’s team, providing services that include medication prescribing, counseling, and crisis intervention, together we can aid in the improvement of our community’s overall health.
(314) 907-0919 View (314) 907-0919
Photo of Nesrin Abu Ata, Psychiatrist, MD
Nesrin Abu Ata
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
(406) 282-8320 View (406) 282-8320

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Sarah Beig, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarah Beig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to those facing challenges with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. I believe in treating each patient as a unique individual, respecting their personal experiences and supporting them in a collaborative journey toward wellness. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and the use of innovative therapies tailored to each person’s needs. I am committed to helping my patients build resilience, find relief, and create lasting change, fostering a safe, non-judgmental space for healing and growth.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to those facing challenges with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. I believe in treating each patient as a unique individual, respecting their personal experiences and supporting them in a collaborative journey toward wellness. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and the use of innovative therapies tailored to each person’s needs. I am committed to helping my patients build resilience, find relief, and create lasting change, fostering a safe, non-judgmental space for healing and growth.
(314) 860-6808 View (314) 860-6808
Photo of Ornela C Ika, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Ornela C Ika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63304
Ornela Ika is a highly dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri and Illinois. Her objective is to break the barrier of mental health access for all. She strives in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and caring environment for patients suffering for mental disorders.
Ornela Ika is a highly dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri and Illinois. Her objective is to break the barrier of mental health access for all. She strives in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and caring environment for patients suffering for mental disorders.
(636) 263-9922 View (636) 263-9922
Photo of Stacy Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP
Stacy Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Stacy Johnson, NP. Stacy Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020.
Stacy Johnson, NP. Stacy Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020.
(636) 249-2694 View (636) 249-2694
Photo of Naga Prasuna Vanipenta, Psychiatrist, MD
Naga Prasuna Vanipenta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you having trouble living your fullest life due to anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar/psychotic disorders, substance use disorders or other behavioral health issues? Either you are seeking the diagnosis/treatment for the first time or looking for a better/alternate care, I would like to partner with you and be the driving force to improve your health and achieve your goals while considering your unique needs. My core philosophy for patient care is partnering and empowering you with the options and the knowledge necessary to get best results from the treatment provided.
Are you having trouble living your fullest life due to anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar/psychotic disorders, substance use disorders or other behavioral health issues? Either you are seeking the diagnosis/treatment for the first time or looking for a better/alternate care, I would like to partner with you and be the driving force to improve your health and achieve your goals while considering your unique needs. My core philosophy for patient care is partnering and empowering you with the options and the knowledge necessary to get best results from the treatment provided.
(816) 325-3929 View (816) 325-3929
Photo of Stephanie O'Halloran Wilkerson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie O'Halloran Wilkerson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Nurse Practitioner who specializes in Psychiatry. Come as you are.
I am a Nurse Practitioner who specializes in Psychiatry. Come as you are.
(636) 597-6886 View (636) 597-6886
Photo of Mary Weiss, Psychiatrist, DO
Mary Weiss
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
Dr. Mary Weiss is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Weiss approaches patients with empathy and respect. She primarily manages medications but may also incorporate therapy modalities. Dr. Weiss enjoys mystery books, word puzzles, and spending time with family.
Dr. Mary Weiss is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Weiss approaches patients with empathy and respect. She primarily manages medications but may also incorporate therapy modalities. Dr. Weiss enjoys mystery books, word puzzles, and spending time with family.
(314) 347-3582 View (314) 347-3582
Photo of Carolyn Kundert, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Carolyn Kundert
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been a certified PA for 7 years and have experience in Psychiatry and Emergency Medicine. I obtained a French Language degree from University of Missouri in 2010 and my BSN from University of Missouri in 2011. I completed a fellowship in Psychiatry at the University of Missouri-Columbia, as well as my Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry in 2021. I acted as the Associate Director of the Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Missouri-Columbia and obtained a faculty designation in 2024 for my roles in research and teaching at MU.
I have been a certified PA for 7 years and have experience in Psychiatry and Emergency Medicine. I obtained a French Language degree from University of Missouri in 2010 and my BSN from University of Missouri in 2011. I completed a fellowship in Psychiatry at the University of Missouri-Columbia, as well as my Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry in 2021. I acted as the Associate Director of the Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Missouri-Columbia and obtained a faculty designation in 2024 for my roles in research and teaching at MU.
(314) 794-5895 View (314) 794-5895
Photo of Dr. Tyler Josephs, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Tyler Josephs
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Tyler Josephs is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He received his medical degree from Kansas City University in 2017 and completed his psychiatric residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center in 2021. During that time, he served as Chief Resident at both the University of Kansas Medical Center and at the Kansas City VA Medical Center. Dr. Josephs most recently worked at the Kansas City VA Medical Center where he was the psychiatric director of the outpatient mental health clinic as well as serving as Psychiatry Executive for behavioral health services.
Dr. Tyler Josephs is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He received his medical degree from Kansas City University in 2017 and completed his psychiatric residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center in 2021. During that time, he served as Chief Resident at both the University of Kansas Medical Center and at the Kansas City VA Medical Center. Dr. Josephs most recently worked at the Kansas City VA Medical Center where he was the psychiatric director of the outpatient mental health clinic as well as serving as Psychiatry Executive for behavioral health services.
(314) 557-3846 View (314) 557-3846
Photo of Michelle Garrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michelle Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
As a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Serenity Health, I am passionate about providing compassionate, individualized care. With a holistic approach, I address each patient's unique needs, offering support through therapy and medication management. My goal is to foster a safe, empathetic environment where patients feel heard and empowered on their journey to mental wellness. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals and improving your quality of life.
As a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Serenity Health, I am passionate about providing compassionate, individualized care. With a holistic approach, I address each patient's unique needs, offering support through therapy and medication management. My goal is to foster a safe, empathetic environment where patients feel heard and empowered on their journey to mental wellness. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals and improving your quality of life.
(314) 804-0533 x300 View (314) 804-0533 x300
Photo of James Peter Cho, Psychiatrist, MD
James Peter Cho
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Outpatient Care is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Therapeutic Interventions and Medical Services which include Medication Assisted Treatments.
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Outpatient Care is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Therapeutic Interventions and Medical Services which include Medication Assisted Treatments.
(314) 470-8517 View (314) 470-8517
Photo of Nicole Parker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Nicole Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Nicole Parker graduated with her Master's Degree in Nursing from Maryville University in 2020 and became a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Prior to graduation she spent time working as an RN in a fast-paced Emergency Department and in acute inpatient behavioral units. She also spent time teaching the specialized focus of mental health clinical rotation to future registered nurses. Nicole's primary focus has been working with inner city children, adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of mental health disorders.
Nicole Parker graduated with her Master's Degree in Nursing from Maryville University in 2020 and became a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Prior to graduation she spent time working as an RN in a fast-paced Emergency Department and in acute inpatient behavioral units. She also spent time teaching the specialized focus of mental health clinical rotation to future registered nurses. Nicole's primary focus has been working with inner city children, adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of mental health disorders.
(314) 916-3616 View (314) 916-3616
Photo of Vivek Agnihotri, Psychiatrist, MD
Vivek Agnihotri
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
I am a Psychiatrist specializing in Addiction Treatment and Adult Psychiatric Treatment. Also provide individualized Weight Management Services. I specialize in the treatment of Opioid dependence with Suboxone, Alcohol dependence, other addictions and Dual Diagnosis and Psychiatric disorders. I have extensive experience in treating a wide range of Psychiatric disorders including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, ADHD. I provide compassionate care and individualized attention in conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations.
I am a Psychiatrist specializing in Addiction Treatment and Adult Psychiatric Treatment. Also provide individualized Weight Management Services. I specialize in the treatment of Opioid dependence with Suboxone, Alcohol dependence, other addictions and Dual Diagnosis and Psychiatric disorders. I have extensive experience in treating a wide range of Psychiatric disorders including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, ADHD. I provide compassionate care and individualized attention in conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations.
(314) 794-5773 View (314) 794-5773
Photo of Kelsey Kingsborough, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kelsey Kingsborough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, MO 63368
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health, I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. My goal is to develop an individualized care plan that meets the unique needs of both the patient and their family. During our initial appointment, I collaborate closely with the patient to gather essential information, including the history of the presenting illness, medical and psychiatric history, current medications, and any previous treatments. Together, we discuss medication management, therapy recommendations, and other personalized treatment goals aimed at achieving optimal wellness.
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health, I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. My goal is to develop an individualized care plan that meets the unique needs of both the patient and their family. During our initial appointment, I collaborate closely with the patient to gather essential information, including the history of the presenting illness, medical and psychiatric history, current medications, and any previous treatments. Together, we discuss medication management, therapy recommendations, and other personalized treatment goals aimed at achieving optimal wellness.
(636) 303-1023 View (636) 303-1023
Photo of Dr. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63113
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Debbie Granick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LCSW, MPH
Debbie Granick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Please request appts at www.commongroundpsych.com. North Carolina only. I provide medication to help you reach your mental health goals. I'm informal, non-judgmental, have no issue with bad words or loud laughs and specialize in women's mental health. Navigating a tough transition? Feel you could be happier and more fulfilled? Not quite the person you want to be? Let's work together! I provide medication (with or without counseling thrown in). I also consult with/mentor mental health providers and speak on mental health for your workplace or interest group.
Please request appts at www.commongroundpsych.com. North Carolina only. I provide medication to help you reach your mental health goals. I'm informal, non-judgmental, have no issue with bad words or loud laughs and specialize in women's mental health. Navigating a tough transition? Feel you could be happier and more fulfilled? Not quite the person you want to be? Let's work together! I provide medication (with or without counseling thrown in). I also consult with/mentor mental health providers and speak on mental health for your workplace or interest group.
(919) 729-6293 View (919) 729-6293
Photo of Meredith Throop, Psychiatrist, MD
Meredith Throop
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Throop is not currently accepting new patients. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
Dr. Throop is not currently accepting new patients. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
(636) 435-2187 View (636) 435-2187

See more therapy options for 63103

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 63103

< 10

Psychiatrists in 63103 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Trauma and PTSD
67% Anxiety
67% Medication Management
67% Stress
33% Addiction
33% ADHD

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 63103 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 63103?

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.