Psychiatrists in 70115

Photo of Halloran Peterson, MD, Psychiatrist
Halloran Peterson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
Waitlist for new clients
I offer medication management and psychotherapy, both in person and online. I am a solo practitioner. I limit the size of my patient panel to ensure that I am able to spend time with my patients and that it is easy to get an appointment. My approach with medications is minimalistic with a goal of enabling patients to engage with healthy coping tools/therapies. I do not subscribe to the notion that mental illness is purely a biochemical process. A person’s entire background and current circumstances affect their mental health and how they will react to certain treatments.
I offer medication management and psychotherapy, both in person and online. I am a solo practitioner. I limit the size of my patient panel to ensure that I am able to spend time with my patients and that it is easy to get an appointment. My approach with medications is minimalistic with a goal of enabling patients to engage with healthy coping tools/therapies. I do not subscribe to the notion that mental illness is purely a biochemical process. A person’s entire background and current circumstances affect their mental health and how they will react to certain treatments.
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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 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 Bradley Thomas Landwehr, MD, Psychiatrist
Bradley Thomas Landwehr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
I am a board-certified psychiatrist located in New Orleans. I provide expert evaluations and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse, gambling & technological addictions.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist located in New Orleans. I provide expert evaluations and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse, gambling & technological addictions.
(504) 732-0451 View (504) 732-0451
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 Peter Mike Mahony, MD, Psychiatrist
Peter Mike Mahony
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
I have many years of experience in a variety of settings, both hospital and office based, mostly in the New Orleans area, which has given me valued understanding of numerous mental health struggles and difficulties encountered by people. It has been quite rewarding to help people achieve peace and stability with improvement in mental health.
I have many years of experience in a variety of settings, both hospital and office based, mostly in the New Orleans area, which has given me valued understanding of numerous mental health struggles and difficulties encountered by people. It has been quite rewarding to help people achieve peace and stability with improvement in mental health.
(504) 420-6815 View (504) 420-6815
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
Photo of Scott Lavie, MD, Psychiatrist
Scott Lavie
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
I’m a born and raised New Orleanian, I did all my training here at LSU, University Medical Center, and Ochsner—as such, I know of the different treatment options available in the city for whatever you might be struggling with. I’m passionate about mental health. Through my own experiences and experiences of loved ones, I’ve seen how mental health struggles can take such a great toll on patients and families. I want to help you understand why you are the way you are; why you reflexively think the way you do—how your unique upbringing and experiences have shaped your unique strengths and flaws.
I’m a born and raised New Orleanian, I did all my training here at LSU, University Medical Center, and Ochsner—as such, I know of the different treatment options available in the city for whatever you might be struggling with. I’m passionate about mental health. Through my own experiences and experiences of loved ones, I’ve seen how mental health struggles can take such a great toll on patients and families. I want to help you understand why you are the way you are; why you reflexively think the way you do—how your unique upbringing and experiences have shaped your unique strengths and flaws.
(504) 507-0621 View (504) 507-0621
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 Andrew Anson, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrew Anson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
As a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist, I have a broad general psychiatry background and am able to diagnose and treat a full range of issues from anxiety, depression, and ADHD, to complex medical presentations and co-occuring conditions. I offer both psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy. I particularly enjoy working with LGBTQ populations, alternative lifestyles, trauma and loss, relationship issues, and patients from diverse backgrounds.
As a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist, I have a broad general psychiatry background and am able to diagnose and treat a full range of issues from anxiety, depression, and ADHD, to complex medical presentations and co-occuring conditions. I offer both psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy. I particularly enjoy working with LGBTQ populations, alternative lifestyles, trauma and loss, relationship issues, and patients from diverse backgrounds.
(504) 677-8294 View (504) 677-8294
Photo of Frances Bryan, MD, Psychiatrist
Frances Bryan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
Not accepting new clients
Now more than ever we recognize the importance of maintaining good mental health and wellness in our lives. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing in the New Orleans area for over 20 years. I completed my medical degree at Tulane University School of Medicine followed by my residency in Psychiatry at Tulane where I served as chief resident. I enjoy and have experience diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions in adults including depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I also work with patients dealing with other struggles including relationship issues, stress management, and life transitions.
Now more than ever we recognize the importance of maintaining good mental health and wellness in our lives. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing in the New Orleans area for over 20 years. I completed my medical degree at Tulane University School of Medicine followed by my residency in Psychiatry at Tulane where I served as chief resident. I enjoy and have experience diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions in adults including depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I also work with patients dealing with other struggles including relationship issues, stress management, and life transitions.
(504) 420-7850 View (504) 420-7850
Photo of Degan J. Dansereau, MD, ABPN, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Degan J. Dansereau
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, FAPA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
I am a board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I have held various leadership and director positions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently maintain a private practice that focuses on providing personal, caring and expert treatment of psychiatric illnesses.
I am a board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I have held various leadership and director positions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently maintain a private practice that focuses on providing personal, caring and expert treatment of psychiatric illnesses.
(504) 273-4113 View (504) 273-4113
Photo of Michael J. Henke, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael J. Henke
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
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 Maegen S Vincent, MD, Psychiatrist
Maegen S Vincent
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Navigating major life transitions, such as adolescence, young adulthood, and parenthood, can be difficult. Supporting individuals during these periods is my passion.
Navigating major life transitions, such as adolescence, young adulthood, and parenthood, can be difficult. Supporting individuals during these periods is my passion.
(504) 414-4929 View (504) 414-4929
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 Holly MacKenna, MD, ABPN, ABOIM, Psychiatrist
Holly MacKenna
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABOIM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a dual board-certified physician who practices psychiatry and integrative medicine, a mom to a child with autoimmunity, and a patient who experienced decades of chronic pain, brain fog, and frustration as I navigated our healthcare system from both sides. I started Dara Wellness to partner with you as you embark on your journey towards wellness. By providing the most up-to-date services in integrative psychiatry and whole health, we empower our patients to take an active role in their self care and recovery. Please email or schedule a discovery call at darawellnessnola.com to begin your journey.
I am a dual board-certified physician who practices psychiatry and integrative medicine, a mom to a child with autoimmunity, and a patient who experienced decades of chronic pain, brain fog, and frustration as I navigated our healthcare system from both sides. I started Dara Wellness to partner with you as you embark on your journey towards wellness. By providing the most up-to-date services in integrative psychiatry and whole health, we empower our patients to take an active role in their self care and recovery. Please email or schedule a discovery call at darawellnessnola.com to begin your journey.
(504) 584-4288 View (504) 584-4288
Photo of Louis T Joseph, MD, Psychiatrist
Louis T Joseph
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
See website to book appointment. Perhaps you might ask yourself if you’ve reached a precipice— a point in your life where you know need to make a change. Perhaps, you’re realizing that living your life without an appreciable feeling of balance and fulfillment is no longer something you’re willing to do? Dr. Joseph offers clients the opportunity to co-create the changes they are seeking in their lives. When you partner with Dr. Joseph, you will develop a clear vision of your truest potential while learning how to work through and remove the steady stream of obstacles that we all must encounter in our lives.
See website to book appointment. Perhaps you might ask yourself if you’ve reached a precipice— a point in your life where you know need to make a change. Perhaps, you’re realizing that living your life without an appreciable feeling of balance and fulfillment is no longer something you’re willing to do? Dr. Joseph offers clients the opportunity to co-create the changes they are seeking in their lives. When you partner with Dr. Joseph, you will develop a clear vision of your truest potential while learning how to work through and remove the steady stream of obstacles that we all must encounter in our lives.
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Photo of Erik Hanson, MD, Psychiatrist
Erik Hanson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Louisiana and Mississippi. I realized the struggles that many face when trying to access quality mental health care, so I established my practice to help those navigating their mental health journey get the care they need. I focus on providing a combination of expertise, compassion, and personalized care with the goal to increase the quality of life for those struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and PTSD. ​
I am a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Louisiana and Mississippi. I realized the struggles that many face when trying to access quality mental health care, so I established my practice to help those navigating their mental health journey get the care they need. I focus on providing a combination of expertise, compassion, and personalized care with the goal to increase the quality of life for those struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and PTSD. ​
(504) 708-4238 View (504) 708-4238

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jada Davis - Grace Behavioral Services, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Grace Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hello, My name is Jada Davis. I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing personalized mental health care. I provide mental healthcare across the lifespan which includes children, teens, and adults. I have experience in treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ADHD and more. I am available to listen to your needs and discuss a treatment plan together.
Hello, My name is Jada Davis. I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing personalized mental health care. I provide mental healthcare across the lifespan which includes children, teens, and adults. I have experience in treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ADHD and more. I am available to listen to your needs and discuss a treatment plan together.
(225) 725-8204 View (225) 725-8204
Photo of Celeste Gunning, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Celeste Gunning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Celeste Gunning. I received my Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Certification in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of South Alabama in Mobile. I am board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I have practiced since 2019 in inpatient adult psychiatric facilities in Louisiana and outpatient family psychiatric practices. I am a member of multiple professional nursing, psychologic, and psychiatric organizations. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, considering all aspects, encompassing, and surrounding an individual since; these, all affect their mental health.
My name is Celeste Gunning. I received my Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Certification in Family Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of South Alabama in Mobile. I am board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I have practiced since 2019 in inpatient adult psychiatric facilities in Louisiana and outpatient family psychiatric practices. I am a member of multiple professional nursing, psychologic, and psychiatric organizations. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, considering all aspects, encompassing, and surrounding an individual since; these, all affect their mental health.
(225) 416-8088 View (225) 416-8088

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 70115

10+

Average cost per session

$325

Psychiatrists in 70115 who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

50% Aetna
50% AmeriHealth
50% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 70115 see their clients

95% In Person and Online
5% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 70115?

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.