Psychiatrists in 63128

Photo of Mohd Azfar Malik - Serenity Health, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Serenity Health
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63128
At Serenity Health, we understand the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more, our team of licensed and certified providers are here to help. Our providers are trained to use psychotherapy to learn about your situation, properly diagnose, and treat your symptoms. Along with psychiatry, we offer neurology services to patients struggling with neuropathy, movement disorders, migraines, post-stroke care, seizures, and more. Our neurology team coordinates with the care plans of your other providers to ensure continuous improvement.
At Serenity Health, we understand the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more, our team of licensed and certified providers are here to help. Our providers are trained to use psychotherapy to learn about your situation, properly diagnose, and treat your symptoms. Along with psychiatry, we offer neurology services to patients struggling with neuropathy, movement disorders, migraines, post-stroke care, seizures, and more. Our neurology team coordinates with the care plans of your other providers to ensure continuous improvement.
(636) 259-4665 View (636) 259-4665
Photo of Sarah Beig, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Beig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63128
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 Deborah Patton, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Patton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Sappington, MO 63128  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and am licensed as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) in the state of Missouri with prescriptive authority. I graduated from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with my BSN, and from St. Louis University with my MSN and Post-Master’s degree education. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years. My primary areas of focus are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD/trauma. My primary treatment focus will be individuals 18 years and older.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and am licensed as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) in the state of Missouri with prescriptive authority. I graduated from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with my BSN, and from St. Louis University with my MSN and Post-Master’s degree education. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years. My primary areas of focus are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD/trauma. My primary treatment focus will be individuals 18 years and older.
(314) 620-8291 View (314) 620-8291
Photo of Susan Dawson, EdD , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Dawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sappington, MO 63128
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, in practice for over 25yrs. I have served as a Professor, Dean and Director of nursing programs. My passion is in helping people in need of substantial management of mental health issues. Helping patients with addiction and adult psychiatry issues is essential for the success of those in these situations. I'm looking forward to serving patients who are ready to deal with their mental health issues, head on. If you need a provider who cares, believes in being honest and trustworthy consider care here is the place.
I am a licensed and board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, in practice for over 25yrs. I have served as a Professor, Dean and Director of nursing programs. My passion is in helping people in need of substantial management of mental health issues. Helping patients with addiction and adult psychiatry issues is essential for the success of those in these situations. I'm looking forward to serving patients who are ready to deal with their mental health issues, head on. If you need a provider who cares, believes in being honest and trustworthy consider care here is the place.
(314) 730-1975 View (314) 730-1975

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Meredith Throop, MD, Psychiatrist
Meredith Throop
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fenton, MO 63026  (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
Photo of Brenda Bush - Innovative Mental Health Services, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Innovative Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakville, MO 63129  (Online Only)
Brenda Bush is a dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Her focus is Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care Adult medicine. Brenda has been a nurse for 28 years and a Nurse Practitioner for 15 years. Her practitioner education is from Indiana Wesleyan University- Marion, Indiana and University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has a collaborative practice in St. Louis and surrounding cities in Mo. and is also licensed in Arizona, Kansas and Virgina. Her goal is to partner with you to create a treatment plan that improves your mental and physical health, enhancing your quality of life.
Brenda Bush is a dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Her focus is Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care Adult medicine. Brenda has been a nurse for 28 years and a Nurse Practitioner for 15 years. Her practitioner education is from Indiana Wesleyan University- Marion, Indiana and University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has a collaborative practice in St. Louis and surrounding cities in Mo. and is also licensed in Arizona, Kansas and Virgina. Her goal is to partner with you to create a treatment plan that improves your mental and physical health, enhancing your quality of life.
(314) 582-6420 View (314) 582-6420
Photo of Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Affton, MO 63123
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 Chido Zvirawa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chido Zvirawa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakville, MO 63129
As a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of nursing experience and 6 years as a nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals. My ideal client may be facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or managing co-occurring disorders. They may feel overwhelmed, seeking both understanding and solutions, with the goal of improving their mental health, emotional resilience, and overall quality of life. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you navigate life’s challenges and achieve optimal mental well-being.
As a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of nursing experience and 6 years as a nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals. My ideal client may be facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or managing co-occurring disorders. They may feel overwhelmed, seeking both understanding and solutions, with the goal of improving their mental health, emotional resilience, and overall quality of life. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you navigate life’s challenges and achieve optimal mental well-being.
(636) 745-4624 View (636) 745-4624
Photo of Rose Psara, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rose Psara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Immediate openings for new clients in the office, telepsychiatry, or via telephone depending on the client's individual needs in the St. Louis area. General psychiatry practice. Seeing patients for anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, and stress. Please email me to set up a new appointment. Hope to see you soon.
Immediate openings for new clients in the office, telepsychiatry, or via telephone depending on the client's individual needs in the St. Louis area. General psychiatry practice. Seeing patients for anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, and stress. Please email me to set up a new appointment. Hope to see you soon.
View
Photo of Mary Weiss, DO, Psychiatrist
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 Ann Chartrand, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ann Chartrand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
I believe that all patients should be respected and actively participate in treatment plans, and properly educating my patients leads to better outcomes. Optimal mental health involves all aspects of an individual and not simply medication management. Every person leaving my office will know how, why and what we are doing to try to help him/her feel better and be healthier. I enjoy working with adults motivated to improve their mental health. My practice is informal and relaxed, designed to reduce "white coat" anxiety and stigma toward mental health treatment. I like to call it "Psychiatry with Personality."
I believe that all patients should be respected and actively participate in treatment plans, and properly educating my patients leads to better outcomes. Optimal mental health involves all aspects of an individual and not simply medication management. Every person leaving my office will know how, why and what we are doing to try to help him/her feel better and be healthier. I enjoy working with adults motivated to improve their mental health. My practice is informal and relaxed, designed to reduce "white coat" anxiety and stigma toward mental health treatment. I like to call it "Psychiatry with Personality."
(314) 668-7023 View (314) 668-7023
Photo of Jordan Calabrese, MD, Psychiatrist
Jordan Calabrese
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Affton, MO 63123
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
(636) 201-3500 View (636) 201-3500
Photo of Rebecca Palmer, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Palmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
I truly believe patients should be treated based on their individual circumstances, as we all face different challenges and have unique needs. I feel that in order to achieve optimal mental health, patients should be included in determining goals for treatment and fully understand their treatment plan. I'll always take the time to talk through your symptoms and situation, discuss options, and ensure you understand the "why" and "what to expect" when any change to your treatment is made.
I truly believe patients should be treated based on their individual circumstances, as we all face different challenges and have unique needs. I feel that in order to achieve optimal mental health, patients should be included in determining goals for treatment and fully understand their treatment plan. I'll always take the time to talk through your symptoms and situation, discuss options, and ensure you understand the "why" and "what to expect" when any change to your treatment is made.
View
Abiola Oyemade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Everyone deserves to live a life that is exciting and stress free, this would be the ideal for us all, however life is about ups and downs, so we must learn how to manage the ups and the downs. As a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and human, l have my own story and we all have our story. Our past is important because it defines what we have been through, however, we cannot make any change to the past. The present is more important than the past and we can make changes. The future remains the most important of all three, change is required for success. As a patient, you must show up, you must want personal growth and healing,
Everyone deserves to live a life that is exciting and stress free, this would be the ideal for us all, however life is about ups and downs, so we must learn how to manage the ups and the downs. As a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and human, l have my own story and we all have our story. Our past is important because it defines what we have been through, however, we cannot make any change to the past. The present is more important than the past and we can make changes. The future remains the most important of all three, change is required for success. As a patient, you must show up, you must want personal growth and healing,
(928) 585-0979 View (928) 585-0979
Photo of Ashok Yanamadala, MD, Psychiatrist
Ashok Yanamadala
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
In my practice, I strive to care for patients who are seeking guidance in their path to improve their mental health. The needs of my patients vary significantly, but they share the goal of wanting to lead happy and healthy lives. People approach the problems they face in a multitude of ways, and the mission of my organization is to understand each patient’s unique starting point and work with them to get them where they want to be. I understand that no two patients can be treated exactly the same and that personal factors have to be considered to deliver quality care.
In my practice, I strive to care for patients who are seeking guidance in their path to improve their mental health. The needs of my patients vary significantly, but they share the goal of wanting to lead happy and healthy lives. People approach the problems they face in a multitude of ways, and the mission of my organization is to understand each patient’s unique starting point and work with them to get them where they want to be. I understand that no two patients can be treated exactly the same and that personal factors have to be considered to deliver quality care.
(314) 701-7596 View (314) 701-7596
Photo of Tamara Runge, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Runge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri.
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri.
(314) 626-8235 View (314) 626-8235
Photo of Kelsey Lonergan, APRN, PMHNP, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelsey Lonergan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123  (Online Only)
I see children and adolescents ranging from ages 5- 18 for all psychiatric and mental health needs. Experienced in ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiance, PTSD, and many other conditions. I see patients virtually and offer weekend and evening hours.
I see children and adolescents ranging from ages 5- 18 for all psychiatric and mental health needs. Experienced in ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiance, PTSD, and many other conditions. I see patients virtually and offer weekend and evening hours.
(314) 310-5473 View (314) 310-5473
Photo of Courtney Haas - Aspire Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aspire Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Fenton, MO 63026  (Online Only)
If you are looking for quality psychiatric medication management services, then Aspire Wellness is the right center for you! We are accepting new patients 18 years and older through telehealth. Our goal is to provide high quality healthcare services to improve overall wellbeing. Our team will support you along the way and work together to connect you with the treament and services you need.
If you are looking for quality psychiatric medication management services, then Aspire Wellness is the right center for you! We are accepting new patients 18 years and older through telehealth. Our goal is to provide high quality healthcare services to improve overall wellbeing. Our team will support you along the way and work together to connect you with the treament and services you need.
(636) 435-2586 View (636) 435-2586
Photo of Dr. Mary Weiss - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
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 inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most 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 inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most major insurance plans.
(833) 765-3937 View (833) 765-3937
Photo of Samantha Saale, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Saale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I offer mental health services to patients aged 6 and up, including medication management and psychoeducation in collaboration with Dr. Thomas Nowotny. I am certified to treat a range of psychiatric illness including, but not limited to; anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, & neurocognitive disorders. I am committed to helping my patients achieve optimal mental health and wellness. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, don't hesitate to reach out to me.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I offer mental health services to patients aged 6 and up, including medication management and psychoeducation in collaboration with Dr. Thomas Nowotny. I am certified to treat a range of psychiatric illness including, but not limited to; anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, sleep disorders, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, & neurocognitive disorders. I am committed to helping my patients achieve optimal mental health and wellness. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, don't hesitate to reach out to me.
(314) 909-8484 View (314) 909-8484

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 63128

< 10

Psychiatrists in 63128 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use

Average years in practice

31 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 63128 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 63128?

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.