Psychiatrists in Carmel, IN

Photo of Brigid Kirlin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brigid Kirlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carmel, IN 46032
If you or a loved one are suffering from OCD or an anxiety disorder, you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses, yet most sufferers do not have access to effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety, there is help. There are medication management options that have been shown to be effective and can be paired with evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques such CBT to maximize treatment effects.
If you or a loved one are suffering from OCD or an anxiety disorder, you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses, yet most sufferers do not have access to effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety, there is help. There are medication management options that have been shown to be effective and can be paired with evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques such CBT to maximize treatment effects.
(317) 661-4363 View (317) 661-4363
Photo of Katlynn Schlaeger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katlynn Schlaeger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I support young and middle-aged adults- and am particularly drawn to walking alongside older adults as they face the life transitions that come with aging. My approach is collaborative; I believe that you are the expert on your life and your body. My role is to partner with you in understanding what's working, what's not, and how we can create meaningful progress together. I work with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, and neurocognitive disorders.
I support young and middle-aged adults- and am particularly drawn to walking alongside older adults as they face the life transitions that come with aging. My approach is collaborative; I believe that you are the expert on your life and your body. My role is to partner with you in understanding what's working, what's not, and how we can create meaningful progress together. I work with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, and neurocognitive disorders.
(317) 943-8358 View (317) 943-8358
Photo of Dr. Surinderpal Kahlon, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Surinderpal Kahlon
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Kahlon has been a psychiatrist trained in the USA. He has been with the Veteran's Affairs for the past 24 years. He was employed as a staff psychiatrist and worked with a wide variety of challenging patients in the VA system. Dr. Kahlon provides medication management along with supportive therapy. In case needed further referral is made to a counselor or therapist.
Dr. Kahlon has been a psychiatrist trained in the USA. He has been with the Veteran's Affairs for the past 24 years. He was employed as a staff psychiatrist and worked with a wide variety of challenging patients in the VA system. Dr. Kahlon provides medication management along with supportive therapy. In case needed further referral is made to a counselor or therapist.
(317) 648-0410 View (317) 648-0410
Photo of Teri Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Teri Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Hello! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 18 years of nursing experience, I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. My approach is holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally competent, ensuring that every client feels heard, valued, and empowered.
Hello! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 18 years of nursing experience, I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. My approach is holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally competent, ensuring that every client feels heard, valued, and empowered.
(317) 978-5354 View (317) 978-5354
Photo of Beth McQuinn - Northside Psychotherapeutics , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, BC
Northside Psychotherapeutics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, BC
Online Only
Northside Psychotherapeutics is a locally owned and operated mental health clinic. We provide virtual psychotherapy, psychiatric medication management, and psychiatric consultation and educational services. We treat individuals across the lifespan; and we have high standards of care and years of experience. Please call 317-775-4906.
Northside Psychotherapeutics is a locally owned and operated mental health clinic. We provide virtual psychotherapy, psychiatric medication management, and psychiatric consultation and educational services. We treat individuals across the lifespan; and we have high standards of care and years of experience. Please call 317-775-4906.
(463) 222-0814 View (463) 222-0814
Photo of Jennifer Sloan, Psychiatrist, MD
Jennifer Sloan
Psychiatrist, MD
Carmel, IN 46032
Dr. Sloan sees men and women ages 18-65 for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. She employs evidence-based pharmacology, psychotherapy, walk and talk, and other modalities as needed for each unique situation. She has particular interest in treating depression and anxiety, and strives to help each person achieve better overall health, function, and well-being in their lives.
Dr. Sloan sees men and women ages 18-65 for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. She employs evidence-based pharmacology, psychotherapy, walk and talk, and other modalities as needed for each unique situation. She has particular interest in treating depression and anxiety, and strives to help each person achieve better overall health, function, and well-being in their lives.
(317) 854-0188 View (317) 854-0188
Photo of Candice Jackson Parrish, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Candice Jackson Parrish
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Carmel, IN 46032
You’re a busy professional—driven, high-performing, and always on the go. But beneath the success, you may be feeling anxious, burned out, distracted, or disconnected. At Empower You Mental Health & Wellness, I specialize in helping professionals like you reclaim your energy, focus, and peace of mind. Through structured programs like Burnout to Balance Blueprint, High-Performance Mind Membership, and Thrive with ADHD Coaching, I offer a hybrid model of care with advanced computerized testing, lab analysis, and personalized, evidence-based support to help you feel like yourself again.
You’re a busy professional—driven, high-performing, and always on the go. But beneath the success, you may be feeling anxious, burned out, distracted, or disconnected. At Empower You Mental Health & Wellness, I specialize in helping professionals like you reclaim your energy, focus, and peace of mind. Through structured programs like Burnout to Balance Blueprint, High-Performance Mind Membership, and Thrive with ADHD Coaching, I offer a hybrid model of care with advanced computerized testing, lab analysis, and personalized, evidence-based support to help you feel like yourself again.
(317) 597-6848 View (317) 597-6848
Photo of Sarah Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LPC
Sarah Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LPC
Carmel, IN 46032
Sarah Miller is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelors in Psychology from Indiana University, a Bachelors of Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Masters in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. Sarah helps clients by providing holistic/well rounded care that focuses on minimizing the need for medications and improving overall satisfaction with life. She provides a comfortable environment that allows for open communication and active listening.
Sarah Miller is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelors in Psychology from Indiana University, a Bachelors of Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Masters in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. Sarah helps clients by providing holistic/well rounded care that focuses on minimizing the need for medications and improving overall satisfaction with life. She provides a comfortable environment that allows for open communication and active listening.
(463) 238-3883 View (463) 238-3883
Photo of Megan Gibson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Megan Gibson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Carmel, IN 46032
Megan Gibson, PMHNP, practices at LifeStance Health and is dedicated to promoting mental wellness for patients in Indiana. With a therapeutic approach rooted in acceptance, patience, and understanding, Megan creates a nonjudgmental environment that fosters healing and personal growth. She serves a diverse range of age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, offering comprehensive care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Megan Gibson, PMHNP, practices at LifeStance Health and is dedicated to promoting mental wellness for patients in Indiana. With a therapeutic approach rooted in acceptance, patience, and understanding, Megan creates a nonjudgmental environment that fosters healing and personal growth. She serves a diverse range of age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, offering comprehensive care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(463) 258-7619 View (463) 258-7619
Photo of Dr. Christopher Cox, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Christopher Cox
Psychiatrist, MD
Carmel, IN 46032
A particular focus of Dr. Cox’s practice is helping clients manage sleep disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and psychosis-related conditions. He understands the profound impact these concerns can have on daily life and works collaboratively with patients to develop strategies for lasting improvement. Whether addressing insomnia, intrusive thoughts, or schizophrenia-related symptoms, he provides a structured and empathetic approach that prioritizes both stability and long-term growth. Dr.
A particular focus of Dr. Cox’s practice is helping clients manage sleep disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and psychosis-related conditions. He understands the profound impact these concerns can have on daily life and works collaboratively with patients to develop strategies for lasting improvement. Whether addressing insomnia, intrusive thoughts, or schizophrenia-related symptoms, he provides a structured and empathetic approach that prioritizes both stability and long-term growth. Dr.
(317) 785-7441 View (317) 785-7441
Photo of Steven B Wilson - Steven B Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Steven B Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Carmel, IN 46032
I am here to help you to help yourself function as best as you can and to grow into who you want to be. I have provided medication management for individuals age 4-84. I am board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and specialize in conflict resolution between children and parents.
I am here to help you to help yourself function as best as you can and to grow into who you want to be. I have provided medication management for individuals age 4-84. I am board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and specialize in conflict resolution between children and parents.
(317) 943-6113 View (317) 943-6113
Photo of Brittany Bullard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Brittany Bullard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
My name is Brittany Bullard and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of practice experience. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. We are also a Spravato treatment center and have current opening for patients seeking Spravato treatment for depression. I am located in Carmel, IN at MindFit Counseling and Wellness Center and am able to see clients in person and virtually.
My name is Brittany Bullard and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of practice experience. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. We are also a Spravato treatment center and have current opening for patients seeking Spravato treatment for depression. I am located in Carmel, IN at MindFit Counseling and Wellness Center and am able to see clients in person and virtually.
(463) 403-1113 x1019 View (463) 403-1113 x1019
Photo of Jayanthi K Peters, Psychiatrist, MD
Jayanthi K Peters
Psychiatrist, MD
Carmel, IN 46032
Waitlist for new clients
I am a double board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my general psychiatry residency at Yale University in 1996 and my child psychiatry fellowship at UCLA in 1998. I have practiced in various clinical settings in Canada and the U.S., including outpatient, inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and emergency room. My diverse clinical experience includes practice in academic centers, community mental health agencies, and private practice.
I am a double board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my general psychiatry residency at Yale University in 1996 and my child psychiatry fellowship at UCLA in 1998. I have practiced in various clinical settings in Canada and the U.S., including outpatient, inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and emergency room. My diverse clinical experience includes practice in academic centers, community mental health agencies, and private practice.
(317) 900-4342 View (317) 900-4342
Photo of Tyler Clay Flaningham, Psychiatrist, MD
Tyler Clay Flaningham
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
(317) 406-4698 View (317) 406-4698
Photo of Zeba Madni, Psychiatrist, MD
Zeba Madni
Psychiatrist, MD
Carmel, IN 46032
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
(317) 483-4705 View (317) 483-4705
Dr. Beverly Bryant
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Bryant graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine to complete her adult training and the Yale Child Study Center/Riverview Hospital for Children Program to complete her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. A native Texan, she returned to Tyler, TX in 2020 to accept the position of Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler. She also established an accredited child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship in Tyler.
Dr. Bryant graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine to complete her adult training and the Yale Child Study Center/Riverview Hospital for Children Program to complete her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. A native Texan, she returned to Tyler, TX in 2020 to accept the position of Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler. She also established an accredited child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship in Tyler.
(317) 961-8092 View (317) 961-8092
Photo of Cameron Chappell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cameron Chappell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carmel, IN 46032
We believe that our mental health is the most important thing we have in this world, and want to help as many people as we can. Our goal is to improve access to mental health treatment.
We believe that our mental health is the most important thing we have in this world, and want to help as many people as we can. Our goal is to improve access to mental health treatment.
(317) 793-3302 View (317) 793-3302
Photo of Kayla Beier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Kayla Beier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Carmel, IN 46033
Endurance Mental Health & Wellness is not your typical psychiatry practice. We pride ourselves on spending time with our patients to truly get to know who they are and what makes them behave and feel the way they do. We ask questions many psychiatric providers don't. How do you eat, sleep, stress, work, move, pray? We are skilled at perfecting psychiatric diagnosis and believe medications can be a helpful tool when used in conjunction with good therapy, lifestyle changes, and hard work. We enjoy working with motivated patients who are looking for evidenced-based medical treatment delivered in a direct, practical approach.
Endurance Mental Health & Wellness is not your typical psychiatry practice. We pride ourselves on spending time with our patients to truly get to know who they are and what makes them behave and feel the way they do. We ask questions many psychiatric providers don't. How do you eat, sleep, stress, work, move, pray? We are skilled at perfecting psychiatric diagnosis and believe medications can be a helpful tool when used in conjunction with good therapy, lifestyle changes, and hard work. We enjoy working with motivated patients who are looking for evidenced-based medical treatment delivered in a direct, practical approach.
(317) 669-9774 View (317) 669-9774
Photo of Kirsten Ann Hammersley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CPNP-PC, PMHNP
Kirsten Ann Hammersley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CPNP-PC, PMHNP
Carmel, IN 46032
Double board-certified as a pediatric and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have over twenty-five years of experience overseeing the mental health needs of children, teens, and young adults in primary care pediatrics. Utilizing evidence-based practice with a focus on collaboration and education, patients will be empowered to play a key role in their mental health journey.
Double board-certified as a pediatric and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have over twenty-five years of experience overseeing the mental health needs of children, teens, and young adults in primary care pediatrics. Utilizing evidence-based practice with a focus on collaboration and education, patients will be empowered to play a key role in their mental health journey.
(317) 785-1079 View (317) 785-1079
Photo of Renee McDougal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Renee McDougal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Hi there! I'm passionate about offering a personalized and holistic approach to support your mental well-being. At Ivy Health, we believe in nurturing the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Life can be tough, and there are often battles that go unseen. Our mission is to be there for you, providing guidance and treatment to help you find a more centered and balanced self. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or any other challenges, I'm here to work with you.
Hi there! I'm passionate about offering a personalized and holistic approach to support your mental well-being. At Ivy Health, we believe in nurturing the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Life can be tough, and there are often battles that go unseen. Our mission is to be there for you, providing guidance and treatment to help you find a more centered and balanced self. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or any other challenges, I'm here to work with you.
(463) 241-6602 View (463) 241-6602
1

See more therapy options for Carmel

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Carmel, IN

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Carmel, IN who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
94% Anxiety
82% Medication Management
73% ADHD
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Bipolar Disorder
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Carmel, IN see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
24% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Carmel?

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.