Psychiatrists in 63366

Photo of Stacy Johnson, CNP/PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP/PMH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Srinivas Chilakamarri, MD, Psychiatrist
Srinivas Chilakamarri
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Online Only
Graduated from St. Louis University from Department of Psychiatry and worked as a Clinical Instructor for Department of Psychiatry at St. Louis University as well as Attending Physician, Admissions unit of State Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in Psychiatry and has obtained additional Certifications from American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and American Society of Addiction Medicine and American Academy of Pain Management. President and Physician at C Group/Psychiatric Services, P.C. Acted as Medical Director for Department of Psychiatry at St. Anthony s Medical Center for many years.
Graduated from St. Louis University from Department of Psychiatry and worked as a Clinical Instructor for Department of Psychiatry at St. Louis University as well as Attending Physician, Admissions unit of State Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in Psychiatry and has obtained additional Certifications from American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and American Society of Addiction Medicine and American Academy of Pain Management. President and Physician at C Group/Psychiatric Services, P.C. Acted as Medical Director for Department of Psychiatry at St. Anthony s Medical Center for many years.
(636) 435-7053 View (636) 435-7053
Photo of Rachel Kranz, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Kranz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Rachel Kranz is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master s Degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2018 and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University in 2013.
Rachel Kranz is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master s Degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2018 and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University in 2013.
(636) 324-8653 View (636) 324-8653
Photo of Dr. Srinivas Chilakamarri - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(636) 689-0482 View (636) 689-0482
Photo of James Adams, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
James Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Andrew Adams is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2013 and a graduate degree from Saint Louis University in 2018. He is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau as well as the graduate honor society, Alpha Lambda Epsilon. Andrew practices a holistic approach to mental wellness including brief therapy and medication management. Andrew listens to his patients and gets their input regarding treatment options to make a collaborative approach to his patients' care.
Andrew Adams is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2013 and a graduate degree from Saint Louis University in 2018. He is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau as well as the graduate honor society, Alpha Lambda Epsilon. Andrew practices a holistic approach to mental wellness including brief therapy and medication management. Andrew listens to his patients and gets their input regarding treatment options to make a collaborative approach to his patients' care.
(636) 622-8113 View (636) 622-8113
Photo of Thripura Thirtala, MD, Psychiatrist
Thripura Thirtala
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Thripura Thirtala received her medical degree from Alluri Sita Rama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences in India. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Her practice is focused on patients 12 years and older, treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and panic disorders. In addition to practicing in general Psychiatry, Dr. Thirtala has specific interests in treating adolescent and substance abuse populations.
Dr. Thripura Thirtala received her medical degree from Alluri Sita Rama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences in India. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Her practice is focused on patients 12 years and older, treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and panic disorders. In addition to practicing in general Psychiatry, Dr. Thirtala has specific interests in treating adolescent and substance abuse populations.
(636) 434-1795 View (636) 434-1795
Photo of Rolando Larice, MD, Psychiatrist
Rolando Larice
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tyler Josephs, DO, Psychiatrist
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 Madelyn Hindia, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, who is seeking effective and compassionate care. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms impacting their daily life and are looking for guidance in finding the right medications to regain balance and focus. Their goal is to improve their mental clarity, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life through a customized and thoughtful treatment approach.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, who is seeking effective and compassionate care. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms impacting their daily life and are looking for guidance in finding the right medications to regain balance and focus. Their goal is to improve their mental clarity, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life through a customized and thoughtful treatment approach.
(314) 948-4012 View (314) 948-4012
Photo of Dr. Jayaprabha V Nair - Sunlight Psychiatry and Wellness, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Sunlight Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Dr. Jaya LaFontaine. I am a board certified Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist, seeing people of all ages. I provide holistic, integrative virtual telepsychiatry services in the state of Missouri. Psychiatric practice has become solely about medicating symptoms rather than addressing the cause. I specialize in reducing polypharmacy, trauma-informed psychotherapy, and providing a safe, inclusive, confidential, and compassionate space for my patients who want to heal rather than numb their pain.
My name is Dr. Jaya LaFontaine. I am a board certified Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist, seeing people of all ages. I provide holistic, integrative virtual telepsychiatry services in the state of Missouri. Psychiatric practice has become solely about medicating symptoms rather than addressing the cause. I specialize in reducing polypharmacy, trauma-informed psychotherapy, and providing a safe, inclusive, confidential, and compassionate space for my patients who want to heal rather than numb their pain.
Photo of Bonnie Lee Applewhite, MD, Psychiatrist
Bonnie Lee Applewhite
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63110
Dr. Bonnie Applewhite provides personalized Adult Psychiatry services in an outpatient setting. Dr. Applewhite has studied at premiere medical institutions and continually strives to remain at the forefront of neuroscience and mental health treatment. Dr. Applewhite collaborates with every patient to realize their innermost potential. Treatment plans are developed with the lifestyle and goals of each patient in mind, while still pursuing maximum therapeutic efficacy.
Dr. Bonnie Applewhite provides personalized Adult Psychiatry services in an outpatient setting. Dr. Applewhite has studied at premiere medical institutions and continually strives to remain at the forefront of neuroscience and mental health treatment. Dr. Applewhite collaborates with every patient to realize their innermost potential. Treatment plans are developed with the lifestyle and goals of each patient in mind, while still pursuing maximum therapeutic efficacy.
(314) 207-0606 View (314) 207-0606
Photo of Nesrin Abu Ata, MD, Psychiatrist
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
Photo of Elizabeth Berry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Working in mental health has always been a passion of mine. Throughout my professional career, I have helped people from many walks of life who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and more. Each day, people struggle with mental health and are in need of help. I provide comprehensive, individualized, treatment plans for each person I work with. By working with the patient to understand them and their personal story, I develop a strong professional relationship. My ultimate goal is to help you become the person you want to be.
Working in mental health has always been a passion of mine. Throughout my professional career, I have helped people from many walks of life who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and more. Each day, people struggle with mental health and are in need of help. I provide comprehensive, individualized, treatment plans for each person I work with. By working with the patient to understand them and their personal story, I develop a strong professional relationship. My ultimate goal is to help you become the person you want to be.
(314) 804-2075 View (314) 804-2075
Photo of Jeramie Rosales Rodriguez, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeramie Rosales Rodriguez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146
Hey there! I'm Dr. Rosales. I'm an adult psychiatrist focused on treating men and women between the ages of 18-64. My true talent is helping men and women recover from a divorce or loss of a relationship. I’m a specialist on how to recover from a broken heart. Many of us have suffered a loss, divorce, or a breakup that often time leaves us lost in grief. I’m here to tell you that there is a clear path to finding yourself out of these dark places. My mission is to be a beacon of hope and guide you back to your authentic self. Although this is my primary focus I'm also proficient at treating a myriad of mental health conditions.
Hey there! I'm Dr. Rosales. I'm an adult psychiatrist focused on treating men and women between the ages of 18-64. My true talent is helping men and women recover from a divorce or loss of a relationship. I’m a specialist on how to recover from a broken heart. Many of us have suffered a loss, divorce, or a breakup that often time leaves us lost in grief. I’m here to tell you that there is a clear path to finding yourself out of these dark places. My mission is to be a beacon of hope and guide you back to your authentic self. Although this is my primary focus I'm also proficient at treating a myriad of mental health conditions.
(314) 866-9152 View (314) 866-9152
Photo of Dr. James Young, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. James Young
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website (www.jamesyoungdo.com) for patient testimonials.
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website (www.jamesyoungdo.com) for patient testimonials.
(816) 451-1280 View (816) 451-1280
Photo of Moses Tabe Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
(573) 269-3946 View (573) 269-3946
Photo of Dr. Thripura Thirtala - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, MO 63017
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.
(314) 789-7316 View (314) 789-7316
Photo of Kimberly Danielle, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Danielle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Klarity Wellness! My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With integrative & functional medicine training, as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Welcome to Klarity Wellness! My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With integrative & functional medicine training, as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
(314) 226-1120 View (314) 226-1120
Photo of Emily Mukherji, MD, Psychiatrist
Emily Mukherji
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Emily Mukherji is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She completed medical school and psychiatry residency in Boston, MA. Emily likes to get to know her clients well and provide thoughtful psychopharmacological treatment for their psychiatric disorders. Outside of work, Emily loves reading, walking her dog, and spending time with her family.
Emily Mukherji is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She completed medical school and psychiatry residency in Boston, MA. Emily likes to get to know her clients well and provide thoughtful psychopharmacological treatment for their psychiatric disorders. Outside of work, Emily loves reading, walking her dog, and spending time with her family.
(314) 912-4869 View (314) 912-4869
Photo of Tanja Johnson Pmhnp-Bc, DNP, FNP-C, ENP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 63366

< 10

Psychiatrists in 63366 who prioritize treating:

86% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Medication Management
71% Depression
57% Trauma and PTSD
57% Psychosis
57% Alcohol Use

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 63366 see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 63366?

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.