Psychiatrists in 66603

Photo of Moses Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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. We offer services specializing in psychiatric medication management, treatment for anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, depression, Medication Assisted Therapy for substance use disorders
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. We offer services specializing in psychiatric medication management, treatment for anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, depression, Medication Assisted Therapy for substance use disorders
(316) 745-0140 View (316) 745-0140
Photo of James Young, DO, Psychiatrist
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.
(913) 733-0816 View (913) 733-0816

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Alicia Sader, ARNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Sader
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
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!
(785) 429-4046 View (785) 429-4046
Photo of Anthonia Egbedeju, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthonia Egbedeju
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and etc. They might struggle with the physical and mental challenges of managing their health and are seeking guidance to build resilience and reclaim balance in their lives. This client values a collaborative, non-judgmental approach and wants to understand and actively participate in their own treatment process. Their goals are to regain stability, improve their mental and physical well-being, and feel empowered to make informed decisions about their health.
My ideal client may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and etc. They might struggle with the physical and mental challenges of managing their health and are seeking guidance to build resilience and reclaim balance in their lives. This client values a collaborative, non-judgmental approach and wants to understand and actively participate in their own treatment process. Their goals are to regain stability, improve their mental and physical well-being, and feel empowered to make informed decisions about their health.
(913) 565-2223 View (913) 565-2223
Photo of Vicki Tsai, PMHNP, MSN, MHA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vicki Tsai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66047
Hello Kansas! Do you need extra help or support through your weight reduction process? We all know mental health and our weight are interconnected. Have you run into the plateau or block during your weight management process? Stress eating? Over eating? Binge eating? I am here to help through the psychological issue and your weight struggles. No more Yo-Yo, no more "fad diets". I am certified nutritionist, and mental health medical provider. My team welcome you to join us through the tough time while working on our mental health as well our physical improvement. We begin with a full body analysis and create workout and eating plan
Hello Kansas! Do you need extra help or support through your weight reduction process? We all know mental health and our weight are interconnected. Have you run into the plateau or block during your weight management process? Stress eating? Over eating? Binge eating? I am here to help through the psychological issue and your weight struggles. No more Yo-Yo, no more "fad diets". I am certified nutritionist, and mental health medical provider. My team welcome you to join us through the tough time while working on our mental health as well our physical improvement. We begin with a full body analysis and create workout and eating plan
(913) 586-2755 View (913) 586-2755
Photo of Brennan Lehotay, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brennan Lehotay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66604
Imagine your ideal self—seeking a partner in your mental health journey who truly listens, understands, and collaborates with you. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or the deep wounds of trauma, and you're looking for a compassionate, individualized approach. Your goal is to find healing and resilience, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and life experiences. I’m here to work closely with you, ensuring that your voice is central in crafting a path to the well-being you deserve. Together, we'll honor your journey and empower you to achieve your goals.
Imagine your ideal self—seeking a partner in your mental health journey who truly listens, understands, and collaborates with you. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or the deep wounds of trauma, and you're looking for a compassionate, individualized approach. Your goal is to find healing and resilience, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and life experiences. I’m here to work closely with you, ensuring that your voice is central in crafting a path to the well-being you deserve. Together, we'll honor your journey and empower you to achieve your goals.
(785) 572-5632 View (785) 572-5632
Photo of Jane Crawford, APRN-BC, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jane Crawford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I treat a variety of patients but they typically have at least a few things in common- their symptoms are unmanageable and oftentimes they have had difficulties with medications in the past. Every single patient is unique, from their symptoms to medication response. I work hard to meet my patients halfway to help manage their symptoms and reach their highest potential.
I treat a variety of patients but they typically have at least a few things in common- their symptoms are unmanageable and oftentimes they have had difficulties with medications in the past. Every single patient is unique, from their symptoms to medication response. I work hard to meet my patients halfway to help manage their symptoms and reach their highest potential.
(316) 227-1989 View (316) 227-1989
Photo of Julius S Quinn, MHA, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(316) 333-5091 View (316) 333-5091
Photo of Loise Wameithi - LifeStance Health, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66049
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.
(785) 509-2891 View (785) 509-2891
Photo of Petra Giubileo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Petra Giubileo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 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!
(785) 572-5666 View (785) 572-5666
Photo of Hiten Soni, MD, Psychiatrist
Hiten Soni
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66046
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
Dr. Soni elected to work in private practice after witnessing first-hand the dire need for high quality, timely, and accessible, psychiatry services in his community. His treatment philosophy is somewhat unique, in that, Dr. Soni places his primary emphasis on improving his patients overall quality of life. This philosophy allows for treatment that is patient specific or Patient Centered. The Patient Centered Treatment model is evidence based and includes medications when warranted in addition to behavioral and social interventions that are also tailored to the person, and not a one size fits all approach.
(785) 333-3959 View (785) 333-3959
Photo of Adrian Cade, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adrian Cade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66047
I have a history with ADHD and anxiety. I know what it's like to get good, quality treatment and what it's like to get lesser treatment from a non-specialist. I would always recommend a specialist for your mental health needs. Absolutely no offense to primary care providers, I used to be one, and I know that they provide an invaluable service, but the mental health training a PCP receives vs. a specialist is vast. I'm here to offer knowledge, guidance, and assistance on your mental health journey to optimal lifelong and daily functioning. We also offer nasal ketamine for depression that has resisted all other treatment options.
I have a history with ADHD and anxiety. I know what it's like to get good, quality treatment and what it's like to get lesser treatment from a non-specialist. I would always recommend a specialist for your mental health needs. Absolutely no offense to primary care providers, I used to be one, and I know that they provide an invaluable service, but the mental health training a PCP receives vs. a specialist is vast. I'm here to offer knowledge, guidance, and assistance on your mental health journey to optimal lifelong and daily functioning. We also offer nasal ketamine for depression that has resisted all other treatment options.
(785) 509-3783 View (785) 509-3783
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
View
Photo of Robin Connors, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robin Connors
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling with stress, fighting depression or paralyzed with anxiety? Do you find yourself on a roller coaster of mood swings, irritability or agitation? Do you long for a good nights sleep but find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep? You are not alone.
Are you struggling with stress, fighting depression or paralyzed with anxiety? Do you find yourself on a roller coaster of mood swings, irritability or agitation? Do you long for a good nights sleep but find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep? You are not alone.
(785) 572-4095 View (785) 572-4095
Photo of Meriam Sam, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meriam Sam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction and all other Mental Health Disorders. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. I am an advocate for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. Im dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. I am passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.
I enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction and all other Mental Health Disorders. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. I am an advocate for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. Im dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. I am passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.
(316) 535-7402 View (316) 535-7402
Photo of Samuel Goetschius, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samuel Goetschius
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide services to Kansas residents of any gender seeking diagnosis for or medication management services for anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD and some limited substance abuse diagnoses with a focus on alcohol or opioid dependency. As part of telepsychiatry some counseling/therapy are often offered as part of the medication management practice.
I provide services to Kansas residents of any gender seeking diagnosis for or medication management services for anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD and some limited substance abuse diagnoses with a focus on alcohol or opioid dependency. As part of telepsychiatry some counseling/therapy are often offered as part of the medication management practice.
(913) 395-7147 View (913) 395-7147
Photo of Yesenia Olmedo, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(913) 380-4856 View (913) 380-4856
Photo of Darnelle Scott - Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
(737) 520-7823 View (737) 520-7823
Photo of Jeff Hill, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeff Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrence, KS 66049
Jeff Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2010. He has a PMHNP post-graduate certificate from University of Missouri, an MSN and certification as a family nurse practitioner from Westminster College, a BSN from the University of Utah, and an ADN from Salt Lake Community College. As a PMHNP, Jeff helps his clients by providing mental health assessments, creating treatment plans, prescribing medication, and offering therapy sessions. However, he uniquely offers his commitment to shared decision-making and patient-centered care.
Jeff Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2010. He has a PMHNP post-graduate certificate from University of Missouri, an MSN and certification as a family nurse practitioner from Westminster College, a BSN from the University of Utah, and an ADN from Salt Lake Community College. As a PMHNP, Jeff helps his clients by providing mental health assessments, creating treatment plans, prescribing medication, and offering therapy sessions. However, he uniquely offers his commitment to shared decision-making and patient-centered care.
(913) 600-2319 View (913) 600-2319
Photo of Brennan Lehotay, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brennan Lehotay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Online Only
Imagine your ideal self—seeking a partner in your mental health journey who truly listens, understands, and collaborates with you. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or the deep wounds of trauma, and you're looking for a compassionate, individualized approach. Your goal is to find healing and resilience, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and life experiences. I’m here to work closely with you, ensuring that your voice is central in crafting a path to the well-being you deserve. Together, we'll honor your journey and empower you to achieve your goals.
Imagine your ideal self—seeking a partner in your mental health journey who truly listens, understands, and collaborates with you. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or the deep wounds of trauma, and you're looking for a compassionate, individualized approach. Your goal is to find healing and resilience, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and life experiences. I’m here to work closely with you, ensuring that your voice is central in crafting a path to the well-being you deserve. Together, we'll honor your journey and empower you to achieve your goals.
(720) 790-6879 View (720) 790-6879

See more therapy options for 66603

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 66603

< 10

Psychiatrists in 66603 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use
100% Alcohol Use

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% 1199SEIU
100% Aetna
100% APS Healthcare

How Psychiatrists in 66603 see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 66603?

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.