Psychiatrists in 66044

Life is hard. It can be challenging to navigate the many changes that life brings. Let’s work together by talking about these problems, coming up with a plan, and working to make life easier. I believe in you! If there is one thing that I wish I could do, it would be to provide you with hope. My purpose is to help people rise above their mental health but are unable to do so because of the stigma, fear, and challenges that people encounter. I encourage people so that they are able to successfully live their daily lives without constantly struggling with their mental health. By doing this, we can change the course of your life!
Life is hard. It can be challenging to navigate the many changes that life brings. Let’s work together by talking about these problems, coming up with a plan, and working to make life easier. I believe in you! If there is one thing that I wish I could do, it would be to provide you with hope. My purpose is to help people rise above their mental health but are unable to do so because of the stigma, fear, and challenges that people encounter. I encourage people so that they are able to successfully live their daily lives without constantly struggling with their mental health. By doing this, we can change the course of your life!

Are you a stressed mother, wife, or daughter who is putting others’ needs in front of your own? Are you a father, husband, or son who is trying to do the best to provide for his family during this ever-changing season? Do you find yourself struggling to help your child with school related stress? Are you ready to start medications for the first time or just need a tweak of your current medications. Let me help you drop your shoulders and find peace!
Are you a stressed mother, wife, or daughter who is putting others’ needs in front of your own? Are you a father, husband, or son who is trying to do the best to provide for his family during this ever-changing season? Do you find yourself struggling to help your child with school related stress? Are you ready to start medications for the first time or just need a tweak of your current medications. Let me help you drop your shoulders and find peace!

I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar disorders primarily as well as many other miscellaneous concerns. I believe in treating the whole person in order to achieve mental wellbeing and improve daily functioning. I am also used to working in close collaboration with therapists (where applicable) as part of a managed care team. I also offer intranasal Ketamine therapy (Spravato) for people who have a deep depression that they just cannot shake with other medications and therapy.
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar disorders primarily as well as many other miscellaneous concerns. I believe in treating the whole person in order to achieve mental wellbeing and improve daily functioning. I am also used to working in close collaboration with therapists (where applicable) as part of a managed care team. I also offer intranasal Ketamine therapy (Spravato) for people who have a deep depression that they just cannot shake with other medications and therapy.

Julius S Quinn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHA, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My practice is dedicated to assisting children and adults from diverse backgrounds who are in search of guidance and treatment for mental health issues. Whether addressing symptoms of PTSD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, I strive to cultivate a supportive atmosphere in which clients can safely examine their challenges and discover significant solutions.
My practice is dedicated to assisting children and adults from diverse backgrounds who are in search of guidance and treatment for mental health issues. Whether addressing symptoms of PTSD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, I strive to cultivate a supportive atmosphere in which clients can safely examine their challenges and discover significant solutions.

Child, Adolescent, and Young Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Matthew Stillion at Symphony Mental Health, provides exceptional Child, Adolescent, and young Adult Psychiatry using telehealth. From preschool through college we optimize mental health through the best evidence based psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic interventions to help young people succeed academically, socially and in competitive sports or extracurricular endeavors. Young people need support more than ever in this dynamic and stressful world. We work with families to give young people the support they need to become resilient, be their authentic selves and thrive even in challenging circumstances.
Dr. Matthew Stillion at Symphony Mental Health, provides exceptional Child, Adolescent, and young Adult Psychiatry using telehealth. From preschool through college we optimize mental health through the best evidence based psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic interventions to help young people succeed academically, socially and in competitive sports or extracurricular endeavors. Young people need support more than ever in this dynamic and stressful world. We work with families to give young people the support they need to become resilient, be their authentic selves and thrive even in challenging circumstances.

Yesenia Olmedo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently not accepting new clients due to my upcoming maternity leave in January. I will resume seeing clients in March. If interested, please visit my webpage in February to schedule a free 15 minute consultation to be seen at that time frame.
Do you feel like your medication visits feel rushed? Are you tired of not being considered as a WHOLE person? I provide a holistic approach to care and take a collaborative approach with you to maximize your health outcomes. I am passionate about caring for the whole person, considering each person’s individual life experiences and cultural backgrounds.
I am currently not accepting new clients due to my upcoming maternity leave in January. I will resume seeing clients in March. If interested, please visit my webpage in February to schedule a free 15 minute consultation to be seen at that time frame.
Do you feel like your medication visits feel rushed? Are you tired of not being considered as a WHOLE person? I provide a holistic approach to care and take a collaborative approach with you to maximize your health outcomes. I am passionate about caring for the whole person, considering each person’s individual life experiences and cultural backgrounds.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and longtime healthcare professional in the Kansas city community, it is my passion to help you succeed in your mental health journey with empathy and understanding. I use evidence based approaches to help people to find their unique path forward. Everyone deserves to live a happy, healthy life and if you are struggling, am here to help you in your journey. When providing care, I maintain an attitude of acceptance of the client and work to encourage growth towards wellness.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and longtime healthcare professional in the Kansas city community, it is my passion to help you succeed in your mental health journey with empathy and understanding. I use evidence based approaches to help people to find their unique path forward. Everyone deserves to live a happy, healthy life and if you are struggling, am here to help you in your journey. When providing care, I maintain an attitude of acceptance of the client and work to encourage growth towards wellness.

Jennifer J Kubin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baldwin City, KS 66006
I believe that when someone has the courage to reach out for help with their mental health, it should be considered a crisis - because poor mental health can destroy lives.
I believe that when someone has the courage to reach out for help with their mental health, it should be considered a crisis - because poor mental health can destroy lives.

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.

My ideal client is someone navigating chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, or heart failure, or struggling with addiction or mental health challenges. They may feel overwhelmed by managing their health, unclear about their treatment options, or frustrated by past care experiences. Their goal is to achieve improved health and well-being, feel empowered to make informed decisions, and regain control over their physical and mental health. They want compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their needs because they value understanding and want to feel heard and supported.
My ideal client is someone navigating chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, or heart failure, or struggling with addiction or mental health challenges. They may feel overwhelmed by managing their health, unclear about their treatment options, or frustrated by past care experiences. Their goal is to achieve improved health and well-being, feel empowered to make informed decisions, and regain control over their physical and mental health. They want compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their needs because they value understanding and want to feel heard and supported.

LaTierra Lindsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shawnee, KS 66216
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric care to marginalized communities where barriers that limit access to quality mental health care have been created. I have a profound passion for working with children and adolescents (ages 5-17), as well as with minority college students and young professionals with spouses and/or children. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by underserved populations, I am committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment where my clients feel seen, heard, respected, and valued.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric care to marginalized communities where barriers that limit access to quality mental health care have been created. I have a profound passion for working with children and adolescents (ages 5-17), as well as with minority college students and young professionals with spouses and/or children. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by underserved populations, I am committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment where my clients feel seen, heard, respected, and valued.

Joseph is a Nurse Practitioner board certified in psychiatry and family medicine. He has experience in treating diverse mental ailments.L such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia and more. He also has a background in family medicine which helps to treat the individual as whole. Mental and physical wellbeing are interconnected and can cause numerous problems when there is a disconnect. Medications play a role in mental and physical wellness, but are not the answer for everything. Prioritize your mental health and schedule today!
Joseph is a Nurse Practitioner board certified in psychiatry and family medicine. He has experience in treating diverse mental ailments.L such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia and more. He also has a background in family medicine which helps to treat the individual as whole. Mental and physical wellbeing are interconnected and can cause numerous problems when there is a disconnect. Medications play a role in mental and physical wellness, but are not the answer for everything. Prioritize your mental health and schedule today!

Prila Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66103
My ideal client may be navigating the challenges of women's mental health or perinatal issues, though I welcome individuals from all backgrounds starting at age 10. They seek understanding, relief from symptoms, and effective coping strategies. Their goals often include improving emotional regulation, overcoming anxiety or depression, and achieving a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a therapist who listens without judgment, offers flexible scheduling, and provides a blend of traditional and holistic treatment options to tailor a care plan that respects their unique needs and life circumstances.
My ideal client may be navigating the challenges of women's mental health or perinatal issues, though I welcome individuals from all backgrounds starting at age 10. They seek understanding, relief from symptoms, and effective coping strategies. Their goals often include improving emotional regulation, overcoming anxiety or depression, and achieving a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a therapist who listens without judgment, offers flexible scheduling, and provides a blend of traditional and holistic treatment options to tailor a care plan that respects their unique needs and life circumstances.

Laura Young is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, practicing since 2021 and is accepting new patients. Laura was born and raised in the Kansas City area. Her post high school education began at Kansas City Kansas Community College, obtaining her Associates of Science in Nursing in 2009 at the young age of 20 years old on a presidential scholarship awarded from high school. She then went on to working as a bedside nurse for over 12 years. Laura went back to college, obtaining her Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2018 while continuing to work at the bedside.
Laura Young is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, practicing since 2021 and is accepting new patients. Laura was born and raised in the Kansas City area. Her post high school education began at Kansas City Kansas Community College, obtaining her Associates of Science in Nursing in 2009 at the young age of 20 years old on a presidential scholarship awarded from high school. She then went on to working as a bedside nurse for over 12 years. Laura went back to college, obtaining her Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2018 while continuing to work at the bedside.

Do you feel like you've been going in circles with your psychiatric medication? The team at KMHM can help you find and navigate new approaches. Julie Marshall, APRN, PMHNP-BC has gained her experience and passion for mental health by working in a variety of settings throughout her career. These include the acute hospital setting for children, adolescents, and adults, residential treatment facilities for youth, and outpatient community health centers.
Do you feel like you've been going in circles with your psychiatric medication? The team at KMHM can help you find and navigate new approaches. Julie Marshall, APRN, PMHNP-BC has gained her experience and passion for mental health by working in a variety of settings throughout her career. These include the acute hospital setting for children, adolescents, and adults, residential treatment facilities for youth, and outpatient community health centers.

Dr. Miguel Stamati is a highly regarded psychiatrist. He practices at Awakenings KC in Prairie Village, KS, offering both in-person and virtual sessions. He earned his medical degree from the National University of Córdoba and brings a comprehensive understanding of diverse mental health needs. He is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Miguel Stamati is a highly regarded psychiatrist. He practices at Awakenings KC in Prairie Village, KS, offering both in-person and virtual sessions. He earned his medical degree from the National University of Córdoba and brings a comprehensive understanding of diverse mental health needs. He is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Jessica Wunder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bonner Springs, KS 66012
Waitlist for new clients
I am a mental health nurse practitioner with more than 15 years experience. I help adults struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD feel relief from unwanted thoughts, decrease overwhelm and guilt, find joy and wonder in their daily lives, slow down and enjoy free time; all while feeling empowered on their healing journey. Are you feeling irritability or mood swings that are affecting your life and relationships ? Feeling like you are constantly on edge and can’t relax? Looking to find a psychiatric provider who understands and listens to you? Or you might not know exactly what you need...And that's okay, I can help you!
I am a mental health nurse practitioner with more than 15 years experience. I help adults struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD feel relief from unwanted thoughts, decrease overwhelm and guilt, find joy and wonder in their daily lives, slow down and enjoy free time; all while feeling empowered on their healing journey. Are you feeling irritability or mood swings that are affecting your life and relationships ? Feeling like you are constantly on edge and can’t relax? Looking to find a psychiatric provider who understands and listens to you? Or you might not know exactly what you need...And that's okay, I can help you!

Nancy Pierce is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified in Family Mental Health for child, adolescent, and adults. Ms. Pierce received her MSN degree in 2001 from the University of Kansas and completed both the Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner programs. Ms. Pierce has worked in almost all areas of nursing, including school nursing. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, treatment plans and ongoing medication management, if needed. She works with ages 560. Her special interests are in the areas of Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Attention Deficit Disorder.
Nancy Pierce is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified in Family Mental Health for child, adolescent, and adults. Ms. Pierce received her MSN degree in 2001 from the University of Kansas and completed both the Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner programs. Ms. Pierce has worked in almost all areas of nursing, including school nursing. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, treatment plans and ongoing medication management, if needed. She works with ages 560. Her special interests are in the areas of Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Attention Deficit Disorder.

Julie Owens With Beyond Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
You deserve to have the time you need in your appointment to feel heard, validated, and supported. You also deserve a holistic approach to your mental health care, recognizing the intricate interplay between your mental well-being and various facets of your life, including physical health, relationships, and environmental influences. I believe that ‘Health is more than a prescription,’ and I am committed to providing meaningful appointments, ensuring you receive dedicated time and attention. While medications can be crucial in managing mental health, I advocate for a comprehensive approach to your care.
You deserve to have the time you need in your appointment to feel heard, validated, and supported. You also deserve a holistic approach to your mental health care, recognizing the intricate interplay between your mental well-being and various facets of your life, including physical health, relationships, and environmental influences. I believe that ‘Health is more than a prescription,’ and I am committed to providing meaningful appointments, ensuring you receive dedicated time and attention. While medications can be crucial in managing mental health, I advocate for a comprehensive approach to your care.

Alive Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHHNP
Verified Verified
Leavenworth, KS 66048
I provide medication management to children, adolescents, and adults 18+ years of age at Alive Family Psychiatry in Leavenworth, KS. I treat several disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, addiction, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD, to name a few. My passion for treating mental health started during my RN training, and this desire has stayed solid and consistent ever since. I am a veteran of the Texas State Guard, the wife of a retired U.S. Army veteran, and a mother to exceptional children.
I provide medication management to children, adolescents, and adults 18+ years of age at Alive Family Psychiatry in Leavenworth, KS. I treat several disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, addiction, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD, to name a few. My passion for treating mental health started during my RN training, and this desire has stayed solid and consistent ever since. I am a veteran of the Texas State Guard, the wife of a retired U.S. Army veteran, and a mother to exceptional children.
See more therapy options for 66044
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 66044
< 10
Psychiatrists in 66044 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
83% | Medication Management |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
50% | Child |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | Aetna |
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 66044 see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Male | |
34% | Female | |
16% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 66044?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.