Psychiatrists in 70003

Photo of Blaine Grice, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blaine Grice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Louisiana native and received my MSN from the University of South Alabama. I am board certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the ANCC and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood, and psychotic disorders. My background includes emergency room/critical care nurse at Level I & II trauma centers, inpatient psychiatry nursing as well as a variety of other healthcare settings. I have a passion for helping those with their mental health. I utilize a holistic, evidence-based approach with my patients.
I am a Louisiana native and received my MSN from the University of South Alabama. I am board certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the ANCC and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood, and psychotic disorders. My background includes emergency room/critical care nurse at Level I & II trauma centers, inpatient psychiatry nursing as well as a variety of other healthcare settings. I have a passion for helping those with their mental health. I utilize a holistic, evidence-based approach with my patients.
(504) 788-1782 View (504) 788-1782
Photo of Johnathan T Larroquette, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Johnathan T Larroquette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I believe that solution-focused care tailored to the individual is effective to achieve optimal functioning in daily life. My goal is to provide an improvement in the patient's quality of life.
I believe that solution-focused care tailored to the individual is effective to achieve optimal functioning in daily life. My goal is to provide an improvement in the patient's quality of life.
(337) 337-2489 View (337) 337-2489

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Alyssa Czudek, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alyssa Czudek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Alyssa Czudek and I am a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I have been seeing patients at my own practice in person for over 5 years. My focus is on helping people become their best self, often this is getting back to the "old you." I treat most mental health conditions such as depression and other mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders across the lifespan.
My name is Alyssa Czudek and I am a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. I have been seeing patients at my own practice in person for over 5 years. My focus is on helping people become their best self, often this is getting back to the "old you." I treat most mental health conditions such as depression and other mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders across the lifespan.
(225) 370-1240 View (225) 370-1240
Photo of Tiffany Vickers - Rebirth Mental Health Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebirth Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At Rebirth Mental Health Services helping you to regain optimal mental health is our top priority. We understand the significance of the mind and body connection to provide holistic care. For so many years people who have mental illness have unfortunately been stigmatized. At Rebirth Mental Health Services, you are treated as an individual in a safe and non-judgment environment so that we can work on helping you achieve your mental health goals. Please click on my website link to schedule a consultation.
At Rebirth Mental Health Services helping you to regain optimal mental health is our top priority. We understand the significance of the mind and body connection to provide holistic care. For so many years people who have mental illness have unfortunately been stigmatized. At Rebirth Mental Health Services, you are treated as an individual in a safe and non-judgment environment so that we can work on helping you achieve your mental health goals. Please click on my website link to schedule a consultation.
(985) 214-1671 View (985) 214-1671
Photo of Trenice Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(225) 629-8078 View (225) 629-8078
Photo of Paula Bland, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paula Bland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
I have been a NP for 13 years. I am certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) & a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have practiced in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care. I excel in providing holistic, patient-centered care, focusing on both medical and mental health needs. I am committed to patient education and lifelong learning to ensure a high-quality, evidence-based care model is utilized with each of my patients.
I have been a NP for 13 years. I am certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) & a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have practiced in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care. I excel in providing holistic, patient-centered care, focusing on both medical and mental health needs. I am committed to patient education and lifelong learning to ensure a high-quality, evidence-based care model is utilized with each of my patients.
(985) 616-5435 View (985) 616-5435
Photo of Ashlyn Crosby, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashlyn Crosby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Book appointments directly on our website immediately. Accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and private pay. Conditions we treat include anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar and PTSD. Our focus is medication management to meet your mental health goals.
Book appointments directly on our website immediately. Accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and private pay. Conditions we treat include anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar and PTSD. Our focus is medication management to meet your mental health goals.
(225) 230-2736 View (225) 230-2736
Photo of Alicia Seicshnaydre, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Seicshnaydre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70471
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, medication management and talk therapy for adults ages 18-65 years. I am trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, bipolar disorders and ADD/ADHD.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, medication management and talk therapy for adults ages 18-65 years. I am trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, bipolar disorders and ADD/ADHD.
(985) 231-5103 View (985) 231-5103
Photo of Samantha Junius-Arcemont - MJA Enterprises, LLC, dba MJA Behavioral Health , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MJA Enterprises, LLC, dba MJA Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
The call to work in the medical field was desired years before completing high school. Over the last 30 years, it has been a rewarding challenge that has brought many benefits. This has been an enjoyable journey. Samantha Arcemont, PMHNP
The call to work in the medical field was desired years before completing high school. Over the last 30 years, it has been a rewarding challenge that has brought many benefits. This has been an enjoyable journey. Samantha Arcemont, PMHNP
(985) 336-5321 View (985) 336-5321
Photo of Blanca Osorio Candelaria, MD, Psychiatrist
Blanca Osorio Candelaria
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Blanca Osorio-Candelaria is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, which she typically combines with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. If Dr. Osorio-Candelaria feels you would benefit from working with a therapist in conjunction to medication management, she welcomes collaboration with your therapist to make for the best outcome.
Dr. Blanca Osorio-Candelaria is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, which she typically combines with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. If Dr. Osorio-Candelaria feels you would benefit from working with a therapist in conjunction to medication management, she welcomes collaboration with your therapist to make for the best outcome.
(904) 682-9195 View (904) 682-9195
Photo of Michael J. Henke, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael J. Henke
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70471
At Trajectory Psychiatry, we offer meaningful psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and young adults in Louisiana. We have expertise in assessing and treating problems with behavior, sleep, anxiety, depression, and mood instability. With offices in uptown New Orleans and Mandeville, LA, we're accepting new patients and scheduling both in-person and telepsychiatry appointments within 1-2 weeks.
At Trajectory Psychiatry, we offer meaningful psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and young adults in Louisiana. We have expertise in assessing and treating problems with behavior, sleep, anxiety, depression, and mood instability. With offices in uptown New Orleans and Mandeville, LA, we're accepting new patients and scheduling both in-person and telepsychiatry appointments within 1-2 weeks.
(985) 377-9906 View (985) 377-9906
Photo of Natalie Bliss, MD, Psychiatrist
Natalie Bliss
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
Dr. Bliss enjoys helping individuals and families who are struggling to find balance in their home, work, or school life. While she provides brief therapy during follow up sessions, her primary focus is in diagnosis and medication management. Her treatment plan considers the psychological, physical, and spiritual well-being of her patients. Her ultimate goal for each patient is to give him or her the tools for a purpose-driven life.
Dr. Bliss enjoys helping individuals and families who are struggling to find balance in their home, work, or school life. While she provides brief therapy during follow up sessions, her primary focus is in diagnosis and medication management. Her treatment plan considers the psychological, physical, and spiritual well-being of her patients. Her ultimate goal for each patient is to give him or her the tools for a purpose-driven life.
(504) 547-6985 View (504) 547-6985
Photo of Ashifur Rahman, MD, Psychiatrist
Ashifur Rahman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
Dr. Rahman strives to the understand the uniqueness in each person’s mental health needs. He has comprehensive experience in treating a wide array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and panic disorders. He prioritizes understanding the nuances of each person’s journey by trying to understand all the factors leading to them seeking help. He approaches mental health by utilizing biopsychosocial model to see all the varied life experiences that may lead to someone’s current symptoms.
Dr. Rahman strives to the understand the uniqueness in each person’s mental health needs. He has comprehensive experience in treating a wide array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and panic disorders. He prioritizes understanding the nuances of each person’s journey by trying to understand all the factors leading to them seeking help. He approaches mental health by utilizing biopsychosocial model to see all the varied life experiences that may lead to someone’s current symptoms.
(504) 321-5028 View (504) 321-5028
Photo of Kellie Newman, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kellie Newman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70130
I am a New Orleans native providing mental health care to the greater New Orleans area for ages 18 and older. I am a masters prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and graduated from Nicholls State University. I have 12 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings and am passionate about increasing access to mental health care. I can effectively communicate with patients through empathy and care. This combined with evidence-based guidelines for treating mental health disorders, allows for a patient-centered approach to care.
I am a New Orleans native providing mental health care to the greater New Orleans area for ages 18 and older. I am a masters prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and graduated from Nicholls State University. I have 12 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings and am passionate about increasing access to mental health care. I can effectively communicate with patients through empathy and care. This combined with evidence-based guidelines for treating mental health disorders, allows for a patient-centered approach to care.
(504) 608-6292 View (504) 608-6292
Photo of Kimberlin Pittman, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberlin Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Harvey, LA 70058
My name is Kimberlin D. Pittman. I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) driven by a deep-rooted passion for helping people reclaim their mental health. My journey has taken me through diverse healthcare settings, including the Department of Veteran Affairs, Beacon Behavioral Hospital, and Odyssey House of Louisiana. At the Department of Veteran Affairs, I ensure top-quality care in skilled, hospice, acute care, and rehab units. At Beacon Behavioral Hospital, I manage shift operations, delivering safe and effective treatment for patients in mental health crises.
My name is Kimberlin D. Pittman. I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) driven by a deep-rooted passion for helping people reclaim their mental health. My journey has taken me through diverse healthcare settings, including the Department of Veteran Affairs, Beacon Behavioral Hospital, and Odyssey House of Louisiana. At the Department of Veteran Affairs, I ensure top-quality care in skilled, hospice, acute care, and rehab units. At Beacon Behavioral Hospital, I manage shift operations, delivering safe and effective treatment for patients in mental health crises.
(504) 315-1764 View (504) 315-1764
Photo of Dr. Willa Rose Shields, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Willa Rose Shields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Shields is a trusted culturally diverse, holistic care visionary, public speaker, life coach, telehealth access consultant and behavioral health provider. She is highly regarded for her integrative behavioral health care expertise. Her care provided is based on underpinnings of psychiatric illness or disease. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, ADHD and mood disorders are just a few of the concerns that are addressed. Your healing and wellness is paramount in the process of care.
Dr. Shields is a trusted culturally diverse, holistic care visionary, public speaker, life coach, telehealth access consultant and behavioral health provider. She is highly regarded for her integrative behavioral health care expertise. Her care provided is based on underpinnings of psychiatric illness or disease. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, ADHD and mood disorders are just a few of the concerns that are addressed. Your healing and wellness is paramount in the process of care.
(225) 351-8079 View (225) 351-8079
Photo of Gerren Wilson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gerren Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70114
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services clients across the life span. I am trained in diagnosing and treating numerous mental health disorders such as: depression, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many others. I work closely with my clients and their therapists to develop a treatment plan best suited to their lives and resources.
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services clients across the life span. I am trained in diagnosing and treating numerous mental health disorders such as: depression, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many others. I work closely with my clients and their therapists to develop a treatment plan best suited to their lives and resources.
(504) 273-4426 View (504) 273-4426
Photo of Karina Fatova, MD, Psychiatrist
Karina Fatova
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
Dr. Fatova believes that her rapport with her patients, and their therapeutic work together, is just as important as the medication she prescribes to heal or alleviate their symptoms. Though her passion is Complex Trauma/PTSD, she also regularly sees patients who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and adjustment disorder. She can help you target symptoms such as sleep issues, nightmares, persistent worry, emotional dysregulation, frequent mood changes, impulsivity, and "toning down the nervous system," among others.
Dr. Fatova believes that her rapport with her patients, and their therapeutic work together, is just as important as the medication she prescribes to heal or alleviate their symptoms. Though her passion is Complex Trauma/PTSD, she also regularly sees patients who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and adjustment disorder. She can help you target symptoms such as sleep issues, nightmares, persistent worry, emotional dysregulation, frequent mood changes, impulsivity, and "toning down the nervous system," among others.
(504) 318-5341 View (504) 318-5341
Photo of Yesenia Sanchez, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yesenia Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
Born and raised in the vibrant city of New Orleans and deeply rooted in her Hispanic heritage, Yesenia epitomizes cultural sensitivity and empathy. Her unwavering dedication to providing equitable and top-notch healthcare reflects her profound commitment to improving the well-being of her patients and the community as a whole. With over ten years of specialized experience in Psychiatry and Addiction Recovery, Yesenia emerges as a trailblazing and empathetic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering innovative solutions and compassionate care to those in need.
Born and raised in the vibrant city of New Orleans and deeply rooted in her Hispanic heritage, Yesenia epitomizes cultural sensitivity and empathy. Her unwavering dedication to providing equitable and top-notch healthcare reflects her profound commitment to improving the well-being of her patients and the community as a whole. With over ten years of specialized experience in Psychiatry and Addiction Recovery, Yesenia emerges as a trailblazing and empathetic Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering innovative solutions and compassionate care to those in need.
(504) 513-6842 View (504) 513-6842
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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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See more therapy options for 70003

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 70003

< 10

Psychiatrists in 70003 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 70003 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 70003?

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.