Psychiatrists in Fort Wayne, IN

Photo of Dr. Cathy-Ann Carby, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Cathy-Ann Carby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
There is an old saying that goes, "The one who has experienced it, knows it." I see this saying as being very true. Therefore, I seek to understand how you are feeling in an effort to help achieve your mental health goals. I work with clients with a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD, substance use, schizophrenia, mood, and anxiety disorders.
There is an old saying that goes, "The one who has experienced it, knows it." I see this saying as being very true. Therefore, I seek to understand how you are feeling in an effort to help achieve your mental health goals. I work with clients with a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD, substance use, schizophrenia, mood, and anxiety disorders.
(260) 368-3245 View (260) 368-3245
Photo of Dr. David Oluyinka Isaac, ARNP, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. David Oluyinka Isaac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Regardless of your sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, race, color, national origin, religion, Surround Me Mental Health (SMMH) understands that your mental health is important. An experienced, passionate psychiatric provider who will listen actively to your concerns and be supportive can assist you in achieving your goal of healing from your struggles, using a culturally sensitive and patient-centered approach. Our goal is to help you move forward to where you want to be in your life. Visit our website to request consultation for services via telehealth anywhere in WA and Indiana and in the Greenwood and Indianapolis area.
Regardless of your sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, race, color, national origin, religion, Surround Me Mental Health (SMMH) understands that your mental health is important. An experienced, passionate psychiatric provider who will listen actively to your concerns and be supportive can assist you in achieving your goal of healing from your struggles, using a culturally sensitive and patient-centered approach. Our goal is to help you move forward to where you want to be in your life. Visit our website to request consultation for services via telehealth anywhere in WA and Indiana and in the Greenwood and Indianapolis area.
(509) 423-7021 View (509) 423-7021
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
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.
(260) 344-7774 View (260) 344-7774
Photo of Fay Roberts, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fay Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
There is an adage that says, “There is no health without good mental health”. This saying resonates with me; therefore, I strive to understand your mental health challenges and to identify ways to achieve and maintain your mental health goals. I specialize in treating patients with a variety of mental health challenges, which include substance use disorder, mood disorder, anxiety, depression and ADHD.
There is an adage that says, “There is no health without good mental health”. This saying resonates with me; therefore, I strive to understand your mental health challenges and to identify ways to achieve and maintain your mental health goals. I specialize in treating patients with a variety of mental health challenges, which include substance use disorder, mood disorder, anxiety, depression and ADHD.
(260) 368-8512 View (260) 368-8512
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
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.
(260) 909-8308 View (260) 909-8308
Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lacy Pippin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
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.
(260) 202-1324 View (260) 202-1324
Photo of Jenna Shock, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenna Shock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
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Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
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.
(260) 236-8669 View (260) 236-8669
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
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.
(260) 305-1774 View (260) 305-1774
Photo of Dr. Drew Schmale, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Drew Schmale
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
About me: I was drawn to psychiatry because I enjoy connecting with people and feel everyone has a unique story to tell. I treat everything on the psychiatric spectrum from mild to moderate severity, as well as those stubborn conditions where medications have not been effective. Psychiatry is one of the last frontiers of medicine and we are continuously seeing the field grow. I dedicated much of my training to researching and becoming skilled in novel methods of delivering psychiatric care, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation and ketamine treatments.
About me: I was drawn to psychiatry because I enjoy connecting with people and feel everyone has a unique story to tell. I treat everything on the psychiatric spectrum from mild to moderate severity, as well as those stubborn conditions where medications have not been effective. Psychiatry is one of the last frontiers of medicine and we are continuously seeing the field grow. I dedicated much of my training to researching and becoming skilled in novel methods of delivering psychiatric care, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation and ketamine treatments.
(260) 217-4404 View (260) 217-4404
Photo of Alicia Ann Elliott, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Ann Elliott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
We all seek emotional wellness. We are at different places on that journey. We all want to be heard. I hear you. It's not easy to ask for help, but I am here to help you. I offer medication services to help as one option. Come see me.
We all seek emotional wellness. We are at different places on that journey. We all want to be heard. I hear you. It's not easy to ask for help, but I am here to help you. I offer medication services to help as one option. Come see me.
(260) 888-3515 View (260) 888-3515
Photo of René M. Phillippe, RN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
René M. Phillippe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
I am a nurse practitioner with expertise in adult primary care and mental health, holding a MSN in Primary Care and a Post-Master's PMHNP certificate from Indiana Wesleyan University. I bring a comprehensive approach to my care and am dedicated to delivering advanced treatments to Allen County and the surrounding community. I prioritize building trust and fostering collaborative relationships with my patients, providing them the support they need to improve their mental wellness.
I am a nurse practitioner with expertise in adult primary care and mental health, holding a MSN in Primary Care and a Post-Master's PMHNP certificate from Indiana Wesleyan University. I bring a comprehensive approach to my care and am dedicated to delivering advanced treatments to Allen County and the surrounding community. I prioritize building trust and fostering collaborative relationships with my patients, providing them the support they need to improve their mental wellness.
(260) 833-7014 View (260) 833-7014
Photo of Delaney Baumann, PMHNP, FNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Delaney Baumann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Motherhood is a unique journey where many of life's greatest joys and challenges are faced. If you have experienced a change in your mood or mental health during pregnancy or after having your baby, you’re not alone. One in five women experience anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders during or after pregnancy. Are you feeling overwhelmed with motherhood, struggling with constant worry, or having a hard time finding joy in your new role as a mom? At Made to Thrive Mental Health Wellness, our sole focus is on maternal mental health. We'd love the opportunity to help you in this season in improving your mental health.
Motherhood is a unique journey where many of life's greatest joys and challenges are faced. If you have experienced a change in your mood or mental health during pregnancy or after having your baby, you’re not alone. One in five women experience anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders during or after pregnancy. Are you feeling overwhelmed with motherhood, struggling with constant worry, or having a hard time finding joy in your new role as a mom? At Made to Thrive Mental Health Wellness, our sole focus is on maternal mental health. We'd love the opportunity to help you in this season in improving your mental health.
(260) 368-3227 View (260) 368-3227
Photo of Sean Thomas Goddard - Viking Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Viking Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Our ideal client is likely someone who feels stuck—struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mood disorders that haven’t responded to traditional treatments. They may feel like they’ve tried everything but still experience persistent symptoms that hold them back from living a fulfilling life. This person is not just looking for relief but for hope—a way to break through the emotional and mental barriers that have kept them from feeling like themselves for too long. They may feel disconnected from the people around them, drained of energy, and overwhelmed by daily life. They might be grappling with unresolved trauma or ch
Our ideal client is likely someone who feels stuck—struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mood disorders that haven’t responded to traditional treatments. They may feel like they’ve tried everything but still experience persistent symptoms that hold them back from living a fulfilling life. This person is not just looking for relief but for hope—a way to break through the emotional and mental barriers that have kept them from feeling like themselves for too long. They may feel disconnected from the people around them, drained of energy, and overwhelmed by daily life. They might be grappling with unresolved trauma or ch
(260) 217-5360 View (260) 217-5360
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
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.
(260) 829-3172 View (260) 829-3172
Photo of Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Nikki Gaines, APRN, MBA, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nikki Gaines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MBA, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
(317) 548-8608 View (317) 548-8608
Photo of Kyle Merrick, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kyle Merrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience working with patients of all ages. I enjoy working together with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that focus on your individual needs. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience working with patients of all ages. I enjoy working together with my patients to develop personalized treatment plans that focus on your individual needs. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
(463) 666-6042 View (463) 666-6042
Photo of Abimbola D Oluwasesin, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abimbola D Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46835
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 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.
(765) 246-8420 View (765) 246-8420
Photo of Dr. Femi Akinsanya, PharmD, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Femi Akinsanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
A person who feels overwhelmed by life's challenges and seeks a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions and find healing. Perhaps they're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or trauma. They long for a deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns, and they're ready to invest in their personal growth.
A person who feels overwhelmed by life's challenges and seeks a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions and find healing. Perhaps they're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or trauma. They long for a deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns, and they're ready to invest in their personal growth.
(463) 271-4523 View (463) 271-4523
1

See more therapy options for Fort Wayne

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Wayne, IN

20+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in Fort Wayne, IN who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
84% Anxiety
64% Trauma and PTSD
64% Bipolar Disorder
56% Medication Management
52% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
48% ADHD

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Cigna and Evernorth
91% Aetna
91% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Fort Wayne, IN see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Wayne?

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.