Psychiatrists in Hancock County, IN

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Rebecca J. Moredock Mueller
Psychiatrist, MD
Greenfield, IN 46140
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and current Professor of Forensic Psychiatry. I work with children (5 and older), adolescents and adults and my particular areas of focus are mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Spectrum, and Seasonal Affective Disorder), Anxiety Spectrum, Eating Disorders, Special Needs Children, ADD/ADHD. I also offer specialty evaluations pertaining to child adoption, aviation, and forensics. My practice is located right off of State Road 9 and I-70 in Greenfield,IN. Please feel free to contact us if you are in need, I try to reserve appointment spots for new patients so I can typically get people in quickly.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and current Professor of Forensic Psychiatry. I work with children (5 and older), adolescents and adults and my particular areas of focus are mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Spectrum, and Seasonal Affective Disorder), Anxiety Spectrum, Eating Disorders, Special Needs Children, ADD/ADHD. I also offer specialty evaluations pertaining to child adoption, aviation, and forensics. My practice is located right off of State Road 9 and I-70 in Greenfield,IN. Please feel free to contact us if you are in need, I try to reserve appointment spots for new patients so I can typically get people in quickly.
(317) 961-8548 View (317) 961-8548
Photo of Adam Humphrey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Adam Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m here to support, educate, and guide you through your mental health journey, but remember—you’re the one in control. You make the final decisions, and I’m here to walk beside you, offering tools, strategies, and encouragement to help you navigate the challenges. Together, we’ll explore what works best for you, celebrate your progress, and build stability for your future. Your journey is unique, and I’m ready to help you take the next step. PLEASE reach out through EMAIL for the fastest response and feel free to share any details of what you are looking for help with.
I’m here to support, educate, and guide you through your mental health journey, but remember—you’re the one in control. You make the final decisions, and I’m here to walk beside you, offering tools, strategies, and encouragement to help you navigate the challenges. Together, we’ll explore what works best for you, celebrate your progress, and build stability for your future. Your journey is unique, and I’m ready to help you take the next step. PLEASE reach out through EMAIL for the fastest response and feel free to share any details of what you are looking for help with.
(317) 751-7164 View (317) 751-7164
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
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.
(463) 282-2719 View (463) 282-2719
Photo of Zacia Green, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zacia Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hello, I am Zacia. I am here to help you with your mental health needs. I am here to listen to your concerns and come up with a treatment plan that best suits you. I am a goal-oriented provider. I like to help my patients set realistic and achievable goals and help them overcome obstacles. I strive to be a provider that is approachable, and someone my patients will find comfort in confiding in. I have flexible hours and evening/weekend appointments if needed. I look forward to meeting you and helping you though whatever it is that may be preventing you from obtaining that level of serenity that you desire.
Hello, I am Zacia. I am here to help you with your mental health needs. I am here to listen to your concerns and come up with a treatment plan that best suits you. I am a goal-oriented provider. I like to help my patients set realistic and achievable goals and help them overcome obstacles. I strive to be a provider that is approachable, and someone my patients will find comfort in confiding in. I have flexible hours and evening/weekend appointments if needed. I look forward to meeting you and helping you though whatever it is that may be preventing you from obtaining that level of serenity that you desire.
(463) 465-2137 View (463) 465-2137
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
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.
(463) 263-4257 View (463) 263-4257
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
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.
(463) 583-1429 View (463) 583-1429
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) 836-2371 View (317) 836-2371
Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist, MD
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(463) 270-7228 View (463) 270-7228
Photo of Megan Skelding - Adjust Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Adjust Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We understand the frustrations that can come along with mental health treatment. Everything from “my provider doesn’t listen” to “I can’t afford this medication.” While we can’t solve all of the world’s problems in a single visit, we can guarantee that we put the patient first…ALWAYS. We are humbled to offer medication management services and also psychotherapy! Our newest therapist, CP, has immediate availability!
We understand the frustrations that can come along with mental health treatment. Everything from “my provider doesn’t listen” to “I can’t afford this medication.” While we can’t solve all of the world’s problems in a single visit, we can guarantee that we put the patient first…ALWAYS. We are humbled to offer medication management services and also psychotherapy! Our newest therapist, CP, has immediate availability!
(317) 790-2535 View (317) 790-2535
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
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.
(463) 217-0414 View (463) 217-0414
Photo of Mind Mechanics-Kristin A Manning, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MBA, APRNFNP, PMHNP
Mind Mechanics-Kristin A Manning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MBA, APRNFNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Your mental health is important to your overall health and well-being. If you suffer from mental health concerns you may need to seek a practitioner who specializes exclusively in mental health and can perform testing, appropriately diagnose and prescribe medication in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I listen to you to fully understand your individual needs and am dedicated in partnering with you along your journey to improve your quality of life. If you want to begin your mental wellness journey, email me. You will be one step closer to being able to say, "I've never felt better."
Your mental health is important to your overall health and well-being. If you suffer from mental health concerns you may need to seek a practitioner who specializes exclusively in mental health and can perform testing, appropriately diagnose and prescribe medication in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I listen to you to fully understand your individual needs and am dedicated in partnering with you along your journey to improve your quality of life. If you want to begin your mental wellness journey, email me. You will be one step closer to being able to say, "I've never felt better."
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Photo of Uros Koprivica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(463) 270-7267 View (463) 270-7267
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
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.
(463) 282-3283 View (463) 282-3283
Photo of Haylei M Lorca, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Haylei M Lorca
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I’m Haylei Lorca, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Lorca Psychiatry and Wellness, a fully virtual practice providing personalized psychiatric care for adults across Indiana. My approach blends medication management with supportive therapy to help you feel seen, grounded, and empowered to create meaningful change. You can expect a conversational style and evidence-based care that honors your unique story.
I’m Haylei Lorca, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Lorca Psychiatry and Wellness, a fully virtual practice providing personalized psychiatric care for adults across Indiana. My approach blends medication management with supportive therapy to help you feel seen, grounded, and empowered to create meaningful change. You can expect a conversational style and evidence-based care that honors your unique story.
(463) 287-5108 View (463) 287-5108
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
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.
(463) 348-4226 View (463) 348-4226

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Hardeep Pabla, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hardeep Pabla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I am a PMHNP practicing in Indiana. I have been working in mental health since 2013. I have been working as a PMHNP since Jan 2024.
Hi, I am a PMHNP practicing in Indiana. I have been working in mental health since 2013. I have been working as a PMHNP since Jan 2024.
(463) 724-2741 View (463) 724-2741
Photo of Debra Zimmer - Debra Zimmer Mind-Body Weight Loss Expert, Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-C, CNP
Debra Zimmer Mind-Body Weight Loss Expert
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-C, CNP
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, weight issues, or chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. They seek balance, emotional stability, and improved overall health. Their goal is to feel understood and supported with a clear, personalized treatment plan that helps them regain control of their life.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, weight issues, or chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. They seek balance, emotional stability, and improved overall health. Their goal is to feel understood and supported with a clear, personalized treatment plan that helps them regain control of their life.
(219) 327-3516 View (219) 327-3516
Photo of Vinicius Teixeira, Psychiatrist, MD
Vinicius Teixeira
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
As a dedicated psychiatrist, my approach centers on providing compassionate, patient-focused care, tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I offer a comprehensive range of services that address the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of well-being. Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with me: Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation of 60 minutes individualized to your needs. Accurate Diagnosis and Clarity. Medication Management that would include monitoring closely for efficacy. Evidence-Based Psychotherapy. Holistic, Patient-Centered Care. Personalized Treatment Plans. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments.
As a dedicated psychiatrist, my approach centers on providing compassionate, patient-focused care, tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I offer a comprehensive range of services that address the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of well-being. Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with me: Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation of 60 minutes individualized to your needs. Accurate Diagnosis and Clarity. Medication Management that would include monitoring closely for efficacy. Evidence-Based Psychotherapy. Holistic, Patient-Centered Care. Personalized Treatment Plans. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments.
(269) 248-7053 View (269) 248-7053
Photo of Laura Johnston - Helix Health Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Helix Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
(317) 350-8838 View (317) 350-8838
Photo of Sabrina White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Sabrina White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am co-owner of Clear Perspectives and an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats patients across the life-span. Additionally, I am certified in the treatment of Perinatal Mood Disorders through Postpartum Support International. I believe in a whole patient approach to mental health care including ongoing collaboration with providers, families and utilizing the latest research.
I am co-owner of Clear Perspectives and an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats patients across the life-span. Additionally, I am certified in the treatment of Perinatal Mood Disorders through Postpartum Support International. I believe in a whole patient approach to mental health care including ongoing collaboration with providers, families and utilizing the latest research.
(317) 676-5661 View (317) 676-5661

See more therapy options for Hancock County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hancock County, IN

10+

Average cost per session

$125

Psychiatrists in Hancock County, IN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
93% ADHD
80% Trauma and PTSD
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Bipolar Disorder
73% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
93% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
93% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Hancock County, IN see their clients

94% In Person and Online
6% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hancock County?

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.