Psychiatrists in 70056

Photo of Dr. Aisha Phillipson - MPC, Manchester Psychiatric Consulting, MD, Psychiatrist
MPC, Manchester Psychiatric Consulting
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Terrytown, LA 70056
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with over fifteen years of experience working with children and adults in a variety of settings including community mental health clinics, inpatient units, emergency departments, and other specialized settings. I am firmly rooted in Louisiana and have served the Louisiana community for over ten years. My approach uses evidence informed medicine- creating an individual treatment plan based on current medical research as well as using an approach that incorporates a biological, psychological and social model of care.
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with over fifteen years of experience working with children and adults in a variety of settings including community mental health clinics, inpatient units, emergency departments, and other specialized settings. I am firmly rooted in Louisiana and have served the Louisiana community for over ten years. My approach uses evidence informed medicine- creating an individual treatment plan based on current medical research as well as using an approach that incorporates a biological, psychological and social model of care.
(504) 285-5604 View (504) 285-5604
Photo of Kimberlin Pittman, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberlin Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Yesenia Sanchez, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yesenia Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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
Photo of Ellie Parrish - Always Hope LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with clients. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I see clients at 3 locations - Prairieville, Baton Rouge and our Metairie location.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with clients. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I see clients at 3 locations - Prairieville, Baton Rouge and our Metairie location.
(225) 434-3788 View (225) 434-3788
Photo of Cinnamon Renique Davis - Bloom Behavioral Health LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bloom Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Does your life feel overwhelming? Are you tired of feeling unmotivated, tired and depressed? Are you ready to get help with your worries and lack of concentration? My goal is that you bloom into the healthiest version of yourself and thrive in all aspects of life.
Does your life feel overwhelming? Are you tired of feeling unmotivated, tired and depressed? Are you ready to get help with your worries and lack of concentration? My goal is that you bloom into the healthiest version of yourself and thrive in all aspects of life.
(504) 396-1346 View (504) 396-1346
Photo of Dr. Shadontre’ Houston - Holistic Medical Care LLC , MA, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Medical Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am experienced adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner that currently offers virtual consultations at Holistic Medical Care LLC. I am specialized in Mental Health and my goal is to promote psychological wellbeing. My philosophy is patient-centered, addressing the whole body, mind, social, and spiritual health and wellness. During consultations, I listens the patients, explains their conditions, discusses their goals, and prepares individualized treatment plans. I also educates caregivers on effective ways to support and care for the patient.
I am experienced adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner that currently offers virtual consultations at Holistic Medical Care LLC. I am specialized in Mental Health and my goal is to promote psychological wellbeing. My philosophy is patient-centered, addressing the whole body, mind, social, and spiritual health and wellness. During consultations, I listens the patients, explains their conditions, discusses their goals, and prepares individualized treatment plans. I also educates caregivers on effective ways to support and care for the patient.
(504) 318-5267 View (504) 318-5267
Photo of Michael D Santone, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael D Santone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70119
Compassionate and Confidential Adult Psychiatric Care. Specializing in Telepsychiatry. Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. Mike has over 25 years experience in behavioral health. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
Compassionate and Confidential Adult Psychiatric Care. Specializing in Telepsychiatry. Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. Mike has over 25 years experience in behavioral health. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
(504) 582-9222 View (504) 582-9222
Photo of Ashley Navarre - Empowered Mind Solutions LLC, Ashley, Navarre, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Empowered Mind Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Ashley, Navarre, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services clients across the life span inpatient and outpatient. I offer an integrative mind-body approach for comprehensive, compassionate psychiatric care. My goal is to promote psychological wellbeing. My philosophy is patient-centered, addressing the whole body, mind, social, and spiritual health and wellness. Providing thorough and thoughtful assessments are paramount in order to achieve effective, successful treatment and coordination of care. 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 inpatient and outpatient. I offer an integrative mind-body approach for comprehensive, compassionate psychiatric care. My goal is to promote psychological wellbeing. My philosophy is patient-centered, addressing the whole body, mind, social, and spiritual health and wellness. Providing thorough and thoughtful assessments are paramount in order to achieve effective, successful treatment and coordination of care. I work closely with my clients and their therapists to develop a treatment plan best suited to their lives and resources.
(985) 336-2440 View (985) 336-2440
Photo of Donisha Adrian Dunn, MD, Psychiatrist
Donisha Adrian Dunn
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70114
As a native of New Orleans, a physician board certified in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine, a yoga teacher and mindfulness meditation teacher, in practice for 20 years, I offer an integrative mind-body approach for comprehensive, compassionate psychiatric care.
As a native of New Orleans, a physician board certified in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine, a yoga teacher and mindfulness meditation teacher, in practice for 20 years, I offer an integrative mind-body approach for comprehensive, compassionate psychiatric care.
(504) 814-7360 View (504) 814-7360
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 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 Blaine Grice, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blaine Grice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
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 Scott Tlanda, MD, Psychiatrist
Scott Tlanda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Tlanda is a board certified general psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of diverse patient populations from the age of 6-75. He is experienced in the diagnosis, treatment and management of mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, autism, intellectual and developmental disorders and others. Dr. Tlanda enjoys providing straight forward and efficient care with evidence based practice in mind, but tailored to suit the needs of each specific person, situation and goal in a patient centered holistic manner. Your words, thoughts, experiences and feelings are vital to treatment.
Dr. Tlanda is a board certified general psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of diverse patient populations from the age of 6-75. He is experienced in the diagnosis, treatment and management of mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, autism, intellectual and developmental disorders and others. Dr. Tlanda enjoys providing straight forward and efficient care with evidence based practice in mind, but tailored to suit the needs of each specific person, situation and goal in a patient centered holistic manner. Your words, thoughts, experiences and feelings are vital to treatment.
(469) 517-1032 View (469) 517-1032
Photo of Flem Ballet - Ballet Psychiatric Services LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ballet Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70114
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating clients throughout the life span(children and Adults). I specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including: ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia etc. My goal is to combine compassion and expertise in support of your mental health journey.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating clients throughout the life span(children and Adults). I specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including: ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia etc. My goal is to combine compassion and expertise in support of your mental health journey.
(504) 500-5923 View (504) 500-5923
Photo of Jill Mutavdzic - Always Hope LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
Jill Mutavdzic has been an RN for over 18 years. She has a bachelor's degree in Speech Pathology, before returning to school to become an RN. She was born and raised in New Orleans and moved to Madisonville, La. after Katrina where she raised her three daughters. She recently moved to Baton Rouge to be closer to her girls who all are students at LSU.
Jill Mutavdzic has been an RN for over 18 years. She has a bachelor's degree in Speech Pathology, before returning to school to become an RN. She was born and raised in New Orleans and moved to Madisonville, La. after Katrina where she raised her three daughters. She recently moved to Baton Rouge to be closer to her girls who all are students at LSU.
(225) 340-2897 View (225) 340-2897
Photo of Morgan Feibelman, MD, Psychiatrist
Morgan Feibelman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
Dr. Feibelman is board certified in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. He approaches each patient as an individual with a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to the present problem. In a nurturing way that respects each person's individuality, he carefully evaluates and discusses treatment approaches with patients, including pharmacological approaches and psychotherapeutic approaches.
Dr. Feibelman is board certified in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. He approaches each patient as an individual with a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to the present problem. In a nurturing way that respects each person's individuality, he carefully evaluates and discusses treatment approaches with patients, including pharmacological approaches and psychotherapeutic approaches.
(504) 322-3837 View (504) 322-3837
Photo of Michael Biunno - Pathways Behavioral Center, LLC , MD, Psychiatrist
Pathways Behavioral Center, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kenner, LA 70065
Pathways Behavioral Center is an out-patient opioid and recovery clinic. Our clinical model used to treat patients with a substance abuse issue is individual therapy and medication management. We also specialize in chronic depression and cognitive/behavioral disorders. We have two psychiatrists on staff to give professional and individualized services to treat your needs.
Pathways Behavioral Center is an out-patient opioid and recovery clinic. Our clinical model used to treat patients with a substance abuse issue is individual therapy and medication management. We also specialize in chronic depression and cognitive/behavioral disorders. We have two psychiatrists on staff to give professional and individualized services to treat your needs.
(504) 608-5910 View (504) 608-5910
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 Kayla Seals, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayla Seals
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management for adolescents and adults with a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, and I strive to build trust and develop authentic relationships with my patients. Most importantly, I am a results-driven clinician. I incorporate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to ensure that you receive the most effective care.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management for adolescents and adults with a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, and I strive to build trust and develop authentic relationships with my patients. Most importantly, I am a results-driven clinician. I incorporate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to ensure that you receive the most effective care.
(504) 910-7372 View (504) 910-7372

See more therapy options for 70056

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 70056

< 10

Psychiatrists in 70056 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
67% Addiction
67% ADHD
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 70056 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 70056?

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.