Psychiatrists in 64055

Photo of Madelyn Hindia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Independence, MO 64055
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck—whether it’s due to overwhelming worry, persistent sadness, struggles with focus, or difficulty navigating relationships. They are seeking clarity, relief, and tools to regain control over their life. My clients often want to feel calmer, more confident, and connected to themselves and others. They come to me because they value a provider who listens, cares deeply, and offers practical solutions tailored to their unique needs. Their goal is to find lasting relief and rediscover their inner strength, and my goal is to help them get there.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck—whether it’s due to overwhelming worry, persistent sadness, struggles with focus, or difficulty navigating relationships. They are seeking clarity, relief, and tools to regain control over their life. My clients often want to feel calmer, more confident, and connected to themselves and others. They come to me because they value a provider who listens, cares deeply, and offers practical solutions tailored to their unique needs. Their goal is to find lasting relief and rediscover their inner strength, and my goal is to help them get there.
(816) 396-7531 View (816) 396-7531
Photo of Moses Tabe Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
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 Madelyn Hindia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Independence, MO 64055
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. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
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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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Chioma Nwokoro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chioma Nwokoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kansas City, MO 64111
Hello! I'm Chioma Nwokoro, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, and I am an experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals navigating mental health challenges. I specialize in compassionate, patient-centered care for individuals aged 13 and older, tailoring each treatment plan to address their unique experiences and needs. Collaboration is at the heart of my approach. I partner with patients to explore their needs and goals, making shared decisions about treatment options that may include medication management, therapy, or lifestyle modifications.
Hello! I'm Chioma Nwokoro, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, and I am an experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals navigating mental health challenges. I specialize in compassionate, patient-centered care for individuals aged 13 and older, tailoring each treatment plan to address their unique experiences and needs. Collaboration is at the heart of my approach. I partner with patients to explore their needs and goals, making shared decisions about treatment options that may include medication management, therapy, or lifestyle modifications.
(816) 451-1145 View (816) 451-1145
Photo of Steven Matthew Rains - Steven Rains NP LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Steven Rains NP LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
My patient care is built on empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices. I believe that every person has a unique story which deserves individualized care. I became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to treat emotional pain, assist clients and their families adapt to mental health changes, and to normalize mental health in our community. I use a team-based approach to mental health where the client’s experience and the provider’s skills meet to create the greatest results.
My patient care is built on empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices. I believe that every person has a unique story which deserves individualized care. I became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to treat emotional pain, assist clients and their families adapt to mental health changes, and to normalize mental health in our community. I use a team-based approach to mental health where the client’s experience and the provider’s skills meet to create the greatest results.
(913) 354-8788 View (913) 354-8788
Photo of Quentin Chambers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Quentin Chambers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, if you are dealing with issues from lack of focus, ability to pay attention. If you are dealing with a form of substance abuse or anxiety. I am here to help. I don't just give you medicine. I work with you to determine if you even need medication. Maybe it's certain vitamins that are missing in your system, we will discover and treat it together. If you are looking for someone who will be attentive to your concerns, I am the right provider for you.
Hi, if you are dealing with issues from lack of focus, ability to pay attention. If you are dealing with a form of substance abuse or anxiety. I am here to help. I don't just give you medicine. I work with you to determine if you even need medication. Maybe it's certain vitamins that are missing in your system, we will discover and treat it together. If you are looking for someone who will be attentive to your concerns, I am the right provider for you.
(515) 608-8787 View (515) 608-8787
Photo of Silverus Kimeli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Silverus Kimeli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Serves Area
I am a dual board certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science Nursing from The University of Oklahoma in 2006. I have worked in several acute mental care units and critical care units prior to pursuing graduate studies. I received my Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati in 2019 and Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) from Saginaw Valley State University in 2021.
I am a dual board certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science Nursing from The University of Oklahoma in 2006. I have worked in several acute mental care units and critical care units prior to pursuing graduate studies. I received my Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati in 2019 and Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) from Saginaw Valley State University in 2021.
(913) 808-3179 View (913) 808-3179
Trevi Enterprises
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Tina Noone MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC graduated with her nursing degree at William Jewell in 2010 and her Masters Degree at the University of Missouri in 2015. She is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner through ANCC. During her training, education and experience, she has been able to provide psychiatric care for child, adolescent, adults and geriatric patients in multiple settings. She also has experience with drug and alcohol addictions. She also has diverse experience with the military community, which include active duty, retired, and family.
Tina Noone MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC graduated with her nursing degree at William Jewell in 2010 and her Masters Degree at the University of Missouri in 2015. She is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner through ANCC. During her training, education and experience, she has been able to provide psychiatric care for child, adolescent, adults and geriatric patients in multiple settings. She also has experience with drug and alcohol addictions. She also has diverse experience with the military community, which include active duty, retired, and family.
(816) 342-5687 View (816) 342-5687
Photo of Dr. Femi Popoola, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Femi Popoola
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
(573) 279-2951 View (573) 279-2951
Photo of Santissa Clapp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Santissa Clapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
I am truly passionate about being a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and believe it to be my calling and purpose in life. While mental health is often overlooked or avoided in the realm of healthcare, I have been drawn to it. I know that every patient is unique and I take pride in tailoring each experience to suit their specific needs. My approach focuses on equipping patients with the necessary tools to long term manage their mental health. I also offer psychotherapy and help with natural alternatives to prescribed medications, like vitamins and supplements. Schedule today to embark on your mental health journey.
(816) 307-5792 View (816) 307-5792
Photo of Sonni Elliott - Sunrise Psychiatry -TMS Center, Psychiatrist, MD
Sunrise Psychiatry -TMS Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Ask yourself these questions.... Do you have difficulty trying to treat Depression? Tried multiple meds which have failed or been difficult to tolerate? Want an option for depression treatment other than medications? Want to lower the number of medications long term? Have a continued goal of quality of life improvement or possible remission from Depression? If so, consider TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
Ask yourself these questions.... Do you have difficulty trying to treat Depression? Tried multiple meds which have failed or been difficult to tolerate? Want an option for depression treatment other than medications? Want to lower the number of medications long term? Have a continued goal of quality of life improvement or possible remission from Depression? If so, consider TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
(913) 404-8677 View (913) 404-8677
Photo of Subbu Joseph Sarma - Arista Recovery Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Psychiatrist, MD
Arista Recovery Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Subbu Sarma, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in addiction medicine. Dr. Sarma received his medical degree in 1999 at the St. Louis University Medical School. Since 2005, he has practiced addiction medicine and treatment methods.
Dr. Subbu Sarma, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in addiction medicine. Dr. Sarma received his medical degree in 1999 at the St. Louis University Medical School. Since 2005, he has practiced addiction medicine and treatment methods.
(913) 379-4207 View (913) 379-4207
Photo of Rasha Elkady, Psychiatrist, MD
Rasha Elkady
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I have been enjoying my work in psychiatry for the past 15 years and I wanted to provide a new and unique service to patients. I provide weekend and afternoon online appointments from the comfort of your own home. The importance of mental health cannot be stressed enough so why make it such a hassle to see a psychiatrist? At one simple click of a button, you can see a psychiatrist and receive a diagnosis tailored just for you. Times are changing, let’s make life easy.
I have been enjoying my work in psychiatry for the past 15 years and I wanted to provide a new and unique service to patients. I provide weekend and afternoon online appointments from the comfort of your own home. The importance of mental health cannot be stressed enough so why make it such a hassle to see a psychiatrist? At one simple click of a button, you can see a psychiatrist and receive a diagnosis tailored just for you. Times are changing, let’s make life easy.
(573) 799-3693 View (573) 799-3693
Photo of Cynthia Ruth Heck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-, BC, LPC-, NCC
Cynthia Ruth Heck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-, BC, LPC-, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I, too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
Hello friend, I am glad you found me. I, too, have sought help for my mental health. I understand the courage it takes to hope, heal, and trust the helpers. No matter how dark it seems now, there is always hope! You do not have to fight alone. It would be my honor to partner with you to help you discover that hope, health, healing, and wholeness is for you too.
(913) 578-6858 View (913) 578-6858
Photo of Amy Baremore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Amy Baremore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Are you overwhelmed with stress, fighting depression or paralyzed with anxiety? Do you struggle with mood swings, irritability or agitation? Are you having difficulty falling asleep at night or are addictions keeping you from reaching your goals? You are not alone.
Are you overwhelmed with stress, fighting depression or paralyzed with anxiety? Do you struggle with mood swings, irritability or agitation? Are you having difficulty falling asleep at night or are addictions keeping you from reaching your goals? You are not alone.
(417) 783-3695 View (417) 783-3695
Photo of Dr. Ebitari Fregene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Ebitari Fregene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I'm Dr. Ebitari Fregene, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering empathetic and informed care to individuals grappling with mental health issues. Are you seeking guidance from an experienced provider who can help you make sense of your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan? I'm here to support you in exploring the underlying causes of your struggles, identifying any co-occurring conditions, and creating a comprehensive plan for optimal healing.
Hi, I'm Dr. Ebitari Fregene, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering empathetic and informed care to individuals grappling with mental health issues. Are you seeking guidance from an experienced provider who can help you make sense of your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan? I'm here to support you in exploring the underlying causes of your struggles, identifying any co-occurring conditions, and creating a comprehensive plan for optimal healing.
(206) 759-5038 View (206) 759-5038
Photo of Dr. Ebitari Fregene (Enrolling New Patients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Ebitari Fregene (Enrolling New Patients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I'm Dr. Ebitari Fregene, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering empathetic and informed care to individuals grappling with mental health issues. Are you seeking guidance from an experienced provider who can help you make sense of your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan? I'm here to support you in exploring the underlying causes of your struggles, identifying any co-occurring conditions, and creating a comprehensive plan for optimal healing.
Hi, I'm Dr. Ebitari Fregene, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering empathetic and informed care to individuals grappling with mental health issues. Are you seeking guidance from an experienced provider who can help you make sense of your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan? I'm here to support you in exploring the underlying causes of your struggles, identifying any co-occurring conditions, and creating a comprehensive plan for optimal healing.
(816) 306-0654 View (816) 306-0654
Photo of Dr. James Young, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. James Young
Psychiatrist, DO
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 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 for patient testimonials.
(816) 451-1280 View (816) 451-1280

See more therapy options for 64055

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 64055

< 10

Psychiatrists in 64055 who prioritize treating:

80% Depression
80% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
60% ADHD
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 64055 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 64055?

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.