Psychiatrists in Clermont, IN

Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(317) 934-6199 View (317) 934-6199
Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lacy Pippin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.
(463) 252-3332 View (463) 252-3332
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(317) 676-1071 View (317) 676-1071
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(317) 593-8095 View (317) 593-8095
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(317) 953-5396 View (317) 953-5396
Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(317) 458-5454 View (317) 458-5454

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Avery Schmidt, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Avery Schmidt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
My ideal client is a patient struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diagnoses. They've tried traditional therapies and medications, but haven't found relief. They're seeking a safe, effective, and innovative treatment option that can help them improve their quality of life and regain hope. They want to be able to function normally, enjoy relationships, and pursue their passions without constant pain and suffering.
My ideal client is a patient struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diagnoses. They've tried traditional therapies and medications, but haven't found relief. They're seeking a safe, effective, and innovative treatment option that can help them improve their quality of life and regain hope. They want to be able to function normally, enjoy relationships, and pursue their passions without constant pain and suffering.
(463) 666-3103 View (463) 666-3103
Photo of Jill Condon, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jill Condon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Curtis Stennett, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Curtis Stennett
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46208
At Neighborhood Psychiatry I provide treatment for people who find they are not accomplishing their goals or functioning as well as they would like to in some aspect of their lives. Many times, this is due to things that seem out of their control. I enjoy working with patients to develop individualized plans that address their areas of concern; in the process, sometimes people discover they have more control than they thought.
At Neighborhood Psychiatry I provide treatment for people who find they are not accomplishing their goals or functioning as well as they would like to in some aspect of their lives. Many times, this is due to things that seem out of their control. I enjoy working with patients to develop individualized plans that address their areas of concern; in the process, sometimes people discover they have more control than they thought.
(317) 593-2029 View (317) 593-2029
Photo of Benjamin May, MD, Psychiatrist
Benjamin May
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204
I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.
I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.
(317) 884-8636 View (317) 884-8636
Photo of Jennifer Jordan, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CPNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46216
Jenny has almost three decades of experience caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. She graduated from Indiana University in 1993 with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and again in 2001 with her Master of Science in Nursing. In 2018, she became a Certified Pediatric Mental Health Specialist. Jenny is double certified in pediatrics and pediatric mental health. She has provided care for infants, children and adolescents as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner for 20 years.
Jenny has almost three decades of experience caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. She graduated from Indiana University in 1993 with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and again in 2001 with her Master of Science in Nursing. In 2018, she became a Certified Pediatric Mental Health Specialist. Jenny is double certified in pediatrics and pediatric mental health. She has provided care for infants, children and adolescents as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner for 20 years.
(317) 406-0794 View (317) 406-0794
Photo of Greta Logan Krause - Krause Wellness, DO, Psychiatrist
Krause Wellness
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
(317) 316-3026 View (317) 316-3026
Photo of Madeline Briere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Briere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am the co-owner and operator of Clear Perspectives, LLC, an outpatient family mental health practice in Indianapolis, IN. I believe in a holistic approach to mental healthcare and utilize a variety of techniques including psychiatric medications alongside nutraceuticals (or supplements) with some behavioral therapy and lifestyle interventions in order to create personalized treatment plans. I believe that mental health symptoms rarely exist in a vacuum and love to work with entire families and/or support systems to ensure I am addressing the whole picture.
I am the co-owner and operator of Clear Perspectives, LLC, an outpatient family mental health practice in Indianapolis, IN. I believe in a holistic approach to mental healthcare and utilize a variety of techniques including psychiatric medications alongside nutraceuticals (or supplements) with some behavioral therapy and lifestyle interventions in order to create personalized treatment plans. I believe that mental health symptoms rarely exist in a vacuum and love to work with entire families and/or support systems to ensure I am addressing the whole picture.
(317) 967-9323 View (317) 967-9323
Photo of Malinda Butler, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Malinda Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm excited to be a part of your journey in providing support to individuals facing various challenges in their lives. From depression and anxiety to trauma, ADHD/ADD, and work-related issues, I'm here to assist them on their path to healing and growth. I'm particularly passionate about advocating for inclusive care for individuals from all walks of life, including the LGBTQAI+ community. Instantly book a appointment with me by clicking on my website to the right.
I'm excited to be a part of your journey in providing support to individuals facing various challenges in their lives. From depression and anxiety to trauma, ADHD/ADD, and work-related issues, I'm here to assist them on their path to healing and growth. I'm particularly passionate about advocating for inclusive care for individuals from all walks of life, including the LGBTQAI+ community. Instantly book a appointment with me by clicking on my website to the right.
(346) 248-2638 View (346) 248-2638
Photo of Eric Hegybeli, DO, FACN, FACOP, Psychiatrist
Eric Hegybeli
Psychiatrist, DO, FACN, FACOP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204
D.O.’s (doctors of osteopathic medicine) are physicians who practice medicine according to a wholistic philosophy. Because of that philosophy I am able to provide more than just routine psychiatric care. I like spending time with my patients and listening to them because I am interested in them as individuals. I trained as a pediatrician as well as a child psychiatrist, so I know child development well and am expert in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorders in children and young adults. I have 7 years of experience treating inpatient Eating Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. I treat pain using non-surgical methods, without medication.
D.O.’s (doctors of osteopathic medicine) are physicians who practice medicine according to a wholistic philosophy. Because of that philosophy I am able to provide more than just routine psychiatric care. I like spending time with my patients and listening to them because I am interested in them as individuals. I trained as a pediatrician as well as a child psychiatrist, so I know child development well and am expert in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorders in children and young adults. I have 7 years of experience treating inpatient Eating Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. I treat pain using non-surgical methods, without medication.
(623) 253-8069 View (623) 253-8069
Photo of Cathy Oplinger, PMHNP-C, MSN, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cathy Oplinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN, PNP
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Everyone has struggles. Moving toward becoming the best version of ourself sometimes requires help. Someone who is non-judgmental and genuinely interested in helping can be that helper.
Everyone has struggles. Moving toward becoming the best version of ourself sometimes requires help. Someone who is non-judgmental and genuinely interested in helping can be that helper.
(317) 942-3059 View (317) 942-3059
Photo of Jennifer McPhee - Brave Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
We believe it should be easy to access the care you need, when you need it. We are an online mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Whether you are starting your mental health journey or seeking additional support, you can count on us to support you at every step.
We believe it should be easy to access the care you need, when you need it. We are an online mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Whether you are starting your mental health journey or seeking additional support, you can count on us to support you at every step.
(463) 348-2569 View (463) 348-2569
Zionsville Ketamine - Christopher Dull, MD
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
Zionsville, IN 46077
Our wonderful patients come from all walks of life. They seek evaluation, treatment, and relief from depression or suicidal thoughts that are resistant to antidepressants and/or other medications. We care for patients either as their primary psychiatric provider or upon referral to us from other medical or therapy providers. We treat with Spravato (generic name esketamine) or ketamine. Even if patients decide they do not want ketamine-based treatment, we have other effective ways to help. We are a mental health clinic and that is our passion.
Our wonderful patients come from all walks of life. They seek evaluation, treatment, and relief from depression or suicidal thoughts that are resistant to antidepressants and/or other medications. We care for patients either as their primary psychiatric provider or upon referral to us from other medical or therapy providers. We treat with Spravato (generic name esketamine) or ketamine. Even if patients decide they do not want ketamine-based treatment, we have other effective ways to help. We are a mental health clinic and that is our passion.
(317) 720-3755 View (317) 720-3755
Photo of Abimbola D Oluwasesin, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abimbola D Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, psychotic disorders and many more mental health specialties and diagnosis. I take all major insurances including medicare, medicaid, anthem, Aetna, Cigna, united healthcare /optum, carelon, quest behavioral health.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, psychotic disorders and many more mental health specialties and diagnosis. I take all major insurances including medicare, medicaid, anthem, Aetna, Cigna, united healthcare /optum, carelon, quest behavioral health.
(765) 246-8420 View (765) 246-8420
Photo of Meko Kokeh, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meko Kokeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello, my name is Meko. I am a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who wants to help meet your mental health needs. My primary goal for you is to increase your confidence in your abilities to achieve set goals and to assure you that help is always available. I became a mental health provider simply because, I have identified that I have an innate ability to render compassionate mental health care to those in need. Apart from using clinical skills to diagnose and treatment patients according to their individual needs, I am also committed to listening, providing support, and working with patients to achieve desire outcomes
Hello, my name is Meko. I am a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who wants to help meet your mental health needs. My primary goal for you is to increase your confidence in your abilities to achieve set goals and to assure you that help is always available. I became a mental health provider simply because, I have identified that I have an innate ability to render compassionate mental health care to those in need. Apart from using clinical skills to diagnose and treatment patients according to their individual needs, I am also committed to listening, providing support, and working with patients to achieve desire outcomes
(317) 666-4796 View (317) 666-4796

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% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
83% Addiction
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% ADHD
67% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

4 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

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
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.