Psychiatrists in Clermont, IN

Photo of Tazia Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Tazia Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, or mood disorders and is seeking support to regain control of their life. They may struggle with self-doubt, difficulty managing emotions, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to find personalized strategies for healing. Their goal is to build resilience, improve self-confidence, and create a healthier balance in life. They are ready to take steps toward healing and want guidance in navigating their journey.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, or mood disorders and is seeking support to regain control of their life. They may struggle with self-doubt, difficulty managing emotions, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to find personalized strategies for healing. Their goal is to build resilience, improve self-confidence, and create a healthier balance in life. They are ready to take steps toward healing and want guidance in navigating their journey.
(317) 699-4215 View (317) 699-4215

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cynthia Ohonba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cynthia Ohonba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
“There is a path to peace in every mind I’m here to help you find yours.” I’m a board-certified PMHNP offering holistic; patient-centered; compassionate; evidence-based care. I diagnose; prescribe; and collaborate with you to understand what your mental health is communicating. I support those navigating anxiety; depression; trauma; ADHD; PMDD; OCD; panic; grief; stress; adjustment issues; sleep disturbances; substance use; and more. Let’s explore what healing looks like together. If you prefer a time outside my posted schedule; please message me; I’m always open to making space for new clients!
“There is a path to peace in every mind I’m here to help you find yours.” I’m a board-certified PMHNP offering holistic; patient-centered; compassionate; evidence-based care. I diagnose; prescribe; and collaborate with you to understand what your mental health is communicating. I support those navigating anxiety; depression; trauma; ADHD; PMDD; OCD; panic; grief; stress; adjustment issues; sleep disturbances; substance use; and more. Let’s explore what healing looks like together. If you prefer a time outside my posted schedule; please message me; I’m always open to making space for new clients!
Photo of Sara Spence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Sara Spence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
If your brain feels like it’s running a thousand tabs at once, it’s time for a reset. At The Serene Sanctuary, I take a full, unhurried look at your symptoms and goals with a comprehensive evaluation, then design a plan that actually works for your life. I’m a board-certified PMHNP with 10+ years’ experience, mixing holistic care, lifestyle tweaks, and personalized med management. Serving women across Indiana via telehealth. Book a free consult—your calm era starts here.
If your brain feels like it’s running a thousand tabs at once, it’s time for a reset. At The Serene Sanctuary, I take a full, unhurried look at your symptoms and goals with a comprehensive evaluation, then design a plan that actually works for your life. I’m a board-certified PMHNP with 10+ years’ experience, mixing holistic care, lifestyle tweaks, and personalized med management. Serving women across Indiana via telehealth. Book a free consult—your calm era starts here.
(463) 223-1223 View (463) 223-1223
Photo of Jill Condon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Jill Condon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46256
My name is Jill Condon and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience working with Children and Adolescents in outpatient and inpatient mental health settings. I have a passion for working with whole family systems to best help promote mental health for my clients.
My name is Jill Condon and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience working with Children and Adolescents in outpatient and inpatient mental health settings. I have a passion for working with whole family systems to best help promote mental health for my clients.
(463) 465-5652 View (463) 465-5652
Photo of Andrea Mendenhall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Andrea Mendenhall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I strive to provide my patients with the highest quality care in a compassionate and empathetic manner. No matter the struggle, I want to meet you where you are and provide the tools for overcoming anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, and other mental health conditions. There is hope in seeking mental health care and working together towards holistic health.
I strive to provide my patients with the highest quality care in a compassionate and empathetic manner. No matter the struggle, I want to meet you where you are and provide the tools for overcoming anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, and other mental health conditions. There is hope in seeking mental health care and working together towards holistic health.
(765) 347-9554 View (765) 347-9554
Photo of Lindsay Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Lindsay Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! My name is Lindsay. I will work with you to create the best treatment plan to meet your needs. YOU are in charge of your treatment. I am only your "helper" to get you where you want to be. My ideal client is someone who is seeking personal growth and healing. Everyone deserves to wake up looking forward to starting their day by identifying the positives in their lives, changing controllable negatives, and coping with uncontrollable negatives that impede happiness! I am the owner of Mending Minds. If I can not take you on as a client, we have several PMHNPs that are taking clients and would love to help.
Hello! My name is Lindsay. I will work with you to create the best treatment plan to meet your needs. YOU are in charge of your treatment. I am only your "helper" to get you where you want to be. My ideal client is someone who is seeking personal growth and healing. Everyone deserves to wake up looking forward to starting their day by identifying the positives in their lives, changing controllable negatives, and coping with uncontrollable negatives that impede happiness! I am the owner of Mending Minds. If I can not take you on as a client, we have several PMHNPs that are taking clients and would love to help.
(317) 620-8394 View (317) 620-8394
Photo of Dr. A. Umair Janjua, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Dr. A. Umair Janjua
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Janjua is available for same/next week appointments via tele-health (GA and IN) or in-person sessions (GA). He is a double board-certified forensic psychiatrist specialized in evidence-based and patient-centered treatment. He completed training in General Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry at Emory University School of Medicine. He treats children, teenagers, adults, and elderly patients. He also specializes in forensic psychiatry and conducts independent medical evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, competency to stand trial, and criminal responsibility evaluations.
Dr. Janjua is available for same/next week appointments via tele-health (GA and IN) or in-person sessions (GA). He is a double board-certified forensic psychiatrist specialized in evidence-based and patient-centered treatment. He completed training in General Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry at Emory University School of Medicine. He treats children, teenagers, adults, and elderly patients. He also specializes in forensic psychiatry and conducts independent medical evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, competency to stand trial, and criminal responsibility evaluations.
(470) 570-2498 View (470) 570-2498
Photo of Jimmy Chenowith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jimmy Chenowith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Avon, IN 46123
Jimmy Chenowith is a Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. He received his Associate’s degree in Nursing from Midlands Technical College in South Carolina in 2007. Jimmy went on to receive his Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Western Governors University in 2014, and later completed his Master’s degree in nursing in 2021. Jimmy has been practicing as an RN for 17 years prior to becoming an NP. He feels this experience is invaluable and provides a foundation that is unique in its own way.
Jimmy Chenowith is a Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. He received his Associate’s degree in Nursing from Midlands Technical College in South Carolina in 2007. Jimmy went on to receive his Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Western Governors University in 2014, and later completed his Master’s degree in nursing in 2021. Jimmy has been practicing as an RN for 17 years prior to becoming an NP. He feels this experience is invaluable and provides a foundation that is unique in its own way.
(317) 451-4435 View (317) 451-4435
Photo of Deborah Stamper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Deborah Stamper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Noblesville, IN 46060
Deborah (Deb) Stamper is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and has been involved in the care of children, adolescents and adults for more than 24 years. Deborah was a public-school teacher for 10 years prior to becoming a nurse and expanded her passion for working with families into mental health/behavioral health care. She has a Master of Arts in Education and a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana University. Her experience includes both acute inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, and group / family educational focus groups.
Deborah (Deb) Stamper is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and has been involved in the care of children, adolescents and adults for more than 24 years. Deborah was a public-school teacher for 10 years prior to becoming a nurse and expanded her passion for working with families into mental health/behavioral health care. She has a Master of Arts in Education and a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana University. Her experience includes both acute inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, and group / family educational focus groups.
(317) 934-7743 View (317) 934-7743
Photo of Catherine Oplinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PNP, PMHNP-B
Catherine Oplinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PNP, PMHNP-B
Carmel, IN 46032
Catherine Oplinger, NP, helps children, teens, and adults across Indiana find stability and healing through compassionate and personalized mental health care. She provides medication management for patients as young as early childhood through seniors, creating treatment plans that are tailored to each individual’s unique needs. At LifeStance Health, Catherine offers supportive, research-based care designed to improve well-being and empower patients at every stage of life.
Catherine Oplinger, NP, helps children, teens, and adults across Indiana find stability and healing through compassionate and personalized mental health care. She provides medication management for patients as young as early childhood through seniors, creating treatment plans that are tailored to each individual’s unique needs. At LifeStance Health, Catherine offers supportive, research-based care designed to improve well-being and empower patients at every stage of life.
(317) 676-9441 View (317) 676-9441
Photo of Sara S Pollard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Sara S Pollard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Greenwood, IN 46142
I believe healing begins with feeling truly seen, heard, and understood. My work is grounded in relationship, compassion, collaboration, and respect for each person’s dignity and unique story. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build insight, and develop practical tools for meaningful change. I see every client as a holistic being composed of mind, body, soul, and spirit, and I incorporate biblically-based principles/perspectives into therapy as requested. I view therapy as a partnership—one where we work together to build insight, resilience, and meaningful change.
I believe healing begins with feeling truly seen, heard, and understood. My work is grounded in relationship, compassion, collaboration, and respect for each person’s dignity and unique story. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build insight, and develop practical tools for meaningful change. I see every client as a holistic being composed of mind, body, soul, and spirit, and I incorporate biblically-based principles/perspectives into therapy as requested. I view therapy as a partnership—one where we work together to build insight, resilience, and meaningful change.
(317) 206-2609 View (317) 206-2609
We treat treatment-resistant depression by thoughtfully incorporating ketamine-based care when appropriate, including IV ketamine, nasal spray ketamine, and Spravato (esketamine), always as part of comprehensive psychiatric treatment. Treatment is provided in a private room and delivered by Dr. Dull or a dual-trained medical and psychiatric nurse practitioner, who will be in the room for the entire session. This means care is delivered live and in person, not by video or remote monitoring. So, regardless of who is in the room, a medical doctor is always present and supervising your care.
We treat treatment-resistant depression by thoughtfully incorporating ketamine-based care when appropriate, including IV ketamine, nasal spray ketamine, and Spravato (esketamine), always as part of comprehensive psychiatric treatment. Treatment is provided in a private room and delivered by Dr. Dull or a dual-trained medical and psychiatric nurse practitioner, who will be in the room for the entire session. This means care is delivered live and in person, not by video or remote monitoring. So, regardless of who is in the room, a medical doctor is always present and supervising your care.
(317) 720-3755 View (317) 720-3755
Photo of Alina L Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Alina L Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46278
Navigating mental health challenges can be daunting, but you don't have to face them alone. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. My extensive experience in both nursing and psychiatry enables me to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. I am committed to providing personalized care, integrating therapy and medication management to support your journey toward mental wellness. Together, we will develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, empowering you to lead a balanced and fulfilling life.
Navigating mental health challenges can be daunting, but you don't have to face them alone. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. My extensive experience in both nursing and psychiatry enables me to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. I am committed to providing personalized care, integrating therapy and medication management to support your journey toward mental wellness. Together, we will develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, empowering you to lead a balanced and fulfilling life.
(463) 295-0889 View (463) 295-0889
Photo of Brooke Peterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Brooke Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Brownsburg, IN 46112
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
(317) 520-8904 View (317) 520-8904
Photo of Kristin Clyne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Kristin Clyne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I see clients ages 18+. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings, insomnia, ADHD, trauma, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, and Level 1 Autism. The initial visit entails a thorough evaluation to determine the correct diagnosis, so you can be treated with the correct treatment. I do offer Genesight and MTHFR testing. I want each of my clients to know I am truly interested in their unique story and know that our session is a judgment free zone. I want to meet people where they are in their journey and help them reach their own personal goals so they can live the life they are so hopeful to have.
Hello! I see clients ages 18+. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings, insomnia, ADHD, trauma, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, and Level 1 Autism. The initial visit entails a thorough evaluation to determine the correct diagnosis, so you can be treated with the correct treatment. I do offer Genesight and MTHFR testing. I want each of my clients to know I am truly interested in their unique story and know that our session is a judgment free zone. I want to meet people where they are in their journey and help them reach their own personal goals so they can live the life they are so hopeful to have.
(463) 255-8885 View (463) 255-8885
Photo of Dr. Kenelle Freeman - Fourth Trimester Wellness Journeys, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSSA, LCSW, PMH-C
Fourth Trimester Wellness Journeys
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSSA, LCSW, PMH-C
Fishers, IN 46038
Becoming a parent is life-changing—and it can also feel overwhelming, lonely, and confusing. If you’re struggling with anxiety, sadness, irritability, or scary thoughts during pregnancy or after birth, you are not alone—and you are not failing. We're here to help you feel like yourself again. You deserve compassionate care during this tender and transformative time. I invite you to reach out—relief and healing are possible.
Becoming a parent is life-changing—and it can also feel overwhelming, lonely, and confusing. If you’re struggling with anxiety, sadness, irritability, or scary thoughts during pregnancy or after birth, you are not alone—and you are not failing. We're here to help you feel like yourself again. You deserve compassionate care during this tender and transformative time. I invite you to reach out—relief and healing are possible.
(317) 434-6965 View (317) 434-6965
Photo of Sanya Virani, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Sanya Virani
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204
As a board certified General Adult, Addiction & Forensic psychiatrist who trained at Yale and Brown University, and having the experience of working in different settings across many states (NY, CT, MA, WA, RI & IN), I help my patients with their mental health and wellness. It brings me great joy and pride. I’m licensed in WA, MA & IN. I am an Addiction psychiatrist at the VA Medical Center, IN and Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Indiana University. I am a South Asian woman who speaks 3 languages and am dedicated to serving my community & beyond and helping folks function most optimally at work and home.
As a board certified General Adult, Addiction & Forensic psychiatrist who trained at Yale and Brown University, and having the experience of working in different settings across many states (NY, CT, MA, WA, RI & IN), I help my patients with their mental health and wellness. It brings me great joy and pride. I’m licensed in WA, MA & IN. I am an Addiction psychiatrist at the VA Medical Center, IN and Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Indiana University. I am a South Asian woman who speaks 3 languages and am dedicated to serving my community & beyond and helping folks function most optimally at work and home.
(463) 282-7235 View (463) 282-7235
Photo of Jessica Beachkofsky, Psychiatrist, MD, MSCP
Jessica Beachkofsky
Psychiatrist, MD, MSCP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky (Dr. B) — a psychiatrist and MSCP who helps women feel more like themselves again with holistic, evidence-based care. If your hormones are messing with your mood, sleep, energy, focus, and just about everything else, you’re not alone. With medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and hormone support, we'll create a plan that works for you! I help women in FL, TX, NY, OH + IN make sense of the chaos in perimenopause and take back control! I do this work because I’ve seen how hard it is to get real help and I’ve been there myself. You deserve to feel like yourself again. Let’s get you there.
Hi, I’m Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky (Dr. B) — a psychiatrist and MSCP who helps women feel more like themselves again with holistic, evidence-based care. If your hormones are messing with your mood, sleep, energy, focus, and just about everything else, you’re not alone. With medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and hormone support, we'll create a plan that works for you! I help women in FL, TX, NY, OH + IN make sense of the chaos in perimenopause and take back control! I do this work because I’ve seen how hard it is to get real help and I’ve been there myself. You deserve to feel like yourself again. Let’s get you there.
(813) 519-3996 View (813) 519-3996
Photo of Dr. Louis Joseph - Sinclair Method at Ballard Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Sinclair Method at Ballard Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
The Sinclair Method is an evidence-based approach to Alcohol Use Disorders that uses the FDA-approved prescription medication Naltrexone to gradually reduce your use.
The Sinclair Method is an evidence-based approach to Alcohol Use Disorders that uses the FDA-approved prescription medication Naltrexone to gradually reduce your use.
(206) 457-1178 View (206) 457-1178
Photo of Dr. Nyla Fleming, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, ANP
Dr. Nyla Fleming
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, ANP
5 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204
My ideal client is motivated to make positive changes and seeks a holistic approach to mental health care. Whether navigating ADHD, anxiety, or depression, they are open to integrative medication management, practical coping tools, and lifestyle strategies. They value a collaborative partnership and are ready to take an active role in their healing journey toward balance and resilience.
My ideal client is motivated to make positive changes and seeks a holistic approach to mental health care. Whether navigating ADHD, anxiety, or depression, they are open to integrative medication management, practical coping tools, and lifestyle strategies. They value a collaborative partnership and are ready to take an active role in their healing journey toward balance and resilience.
(317) 942-3289 View (317) 942-3289

See more therapy options for Clermont

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Clermont, IN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Clermont, IN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Grief
100% Medication Management
100% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Clermont, IN see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Clermont?

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.