Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN

Hello! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, and addiction. I believe it's my duty to legitimize/de-stigmatize mental health. I am YOUR ally. It's important to me that you feel heard. Be proud of yourself for taking a risk and reaching out to a stranger. Our discussions are confidential. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD, anxiety, or depression their whole lives but haven't been given the time or resources they need to thrive. We will discuss medication management, but also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give homework, and real world tips to work on between our visits.
Hello! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, and addiction. I believe it's my duty to legitimize/de-stigmatize mental health. I am YOUR ally. It's important to me that you feel heard. Be proud of yourself for taking a risk and reaching out to a stranger. Our discussions are confidential. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD, anxiety, or depression their whole lives but haven't been given the time or resources they need to thrive. We will discuss medication management, but also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give homework, and real world tips to work on between our visits.

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.

I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am based in Indiana, I offer office visits as well as virtual appointments. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am based in Indiana, I offer office visits as well as virtual appointments. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan.

Ashley Hogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Not accepting new clients
My ideal patients are women ages 18+ who are navigating life transitions. As a woman who wears many hats, I understand the complexities we face and the importance of receiving care that is both specialized & individualized. Woman-to-woman care can offer a unique sense of familiarity & comfort, allowing for a deeper level of trust. Maternal mental health deserves thoughtful care because no two journeys into motherhood are the same. Outside of motherhood, simply being a woman comes with its own set of pressures, and expectations. Whether you’re navigating career changes, relationships, identity, or emotional challenges. I’m here!
My ideal patients are women ages 18+ who are navigating life transitions. As a woman who wears many hats, I understand the complexities we face and the importance of receiving care that is both specialized & individualized. Woman-to-woman care can offer a unique sense of familiarity & comfort, allowing for a deeper level of trust. Maternal mental health deserves thoughtful care because no two journeys into motherhood are the same. Outside of motherhood, simply being a woman comes with its own set of pressures, and expectations. Whether you’re navigating career changes, relationships, identity, or emotional challenges. I’m here!

I believe the most important aspects of a quality assessment and therapeutic relationship is active listening and clear communication. I appreciate that everyone has their unique story and personal struggles. Allotting 90 minutes for an initial encouter allows me the time to provide a comprehensive assessment and construct an individualized plan of care. Inherent vulnerabilities, trauma, medical conditions, and unhealthy lifestyles can all contribute to distress and dysfunction. My diverse training and experience enable me to address issues in all of these areas to promote recovery and wellbeing.
I believe the most important aspects of a quality assessment and therapeutic relationship is active listening and clear communication. I appreciate that everyone has their unique story and personal struggles. Allotting 90 minutes for an initial encouter allows me the time to provide a comprehensive assessment and construct an individualized plan of care. Inherent vulnerabilities, trauma, medical conditions, and unhealthy lifestyles can all contribute to distress and dysfunction. My diverse training and experience enable me to address issues in all of these areas to promote recovery and wellbeing.

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.

If you are struggling with emotional issues in your life, there's a chance you suffer from a mental illness. That doesn't mean there is something wrong with you, but it does mean there may be medications that could help you to overcome the problems you are dealing with. I would be thrilled to talk to you and help define specifically which problems you would like to tackle and walk you through how medications might help you to meet your goals.
If you are struggling with emotional issues in your life, there's a chance you suffer from a mental illness. That doesn't mean there is something wrong with you, but it does mean there may be medications that could help you to overcome the problems you are dealing with. I would be thrilled to talk to you and help define specifically which problems you would like to tackle and walk you through how medications might help you to meet your goals.

I am Bethany Richards, MD (she/her). I have over 20 years of experience as a Board Certified Psychiatrist in mental health centers, hospitals, inpatient units and outpatient. Most recently I was the Medical Director and Director of Integrative Psychiatry at the Neurodiagnostic Institute. I conceived of and helped develop the Advanced Treatment Center for Integrative Psychiatry there. Through my work and personal healing journey, I discovered Reiki, Shamanic healing and many other forms of self healing. I also became very familiar with alternative forms of treatment. These practices have great benefits for people struggling.
I am Bethany Richards, MD (she/her). I have over 20 years of experience as a Board Certified Psychiatrist in mental health centers, hospitals, inpatient units and outpatient. Most recently I was the Medical Director and Director of Integrative Psychiatry at the Neurodiagnostic Institute. I conceived of and helped develop the Advanced Treatment Center for Integrative Psychiatry there. Through my work and personal healing journey, I discovered Reiki, Shamanic healing and many other forms of self healing. I also became very familiar with alternative forms of treatment. These practices have great benefits for people struggling.

Tyler Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2021. He earned degrees in both BSN and MSN at Indiana University. Tyler practices very thorough and detailed assessments and treats each person as an individual to give the best patient centered care he can provide. Tyler has knowledge of therapeutic methods, locations, and opportunities to meet individual and specific needs. He has experience in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric treatment as a provider.
Tyler Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2021. He earned degrees in both BSN and MSN at Indiana University. Tyler practices very thorough and detailed assessments and treats each person as an individual to give the best patient centered care he can provide. Tyler has knowledge of therapeutic methods, locations, and opportunities to meet individual and specific needs. He has experience in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric treatment as a provider.

I am committed to providing patients with compassionate, comprehensive and individualized care. The mental health of my patients is my top priority as a provider. I personally understand the unique challenges you face growing up with close relatives with severe mental illnesses, who were marginalized and received inadequate healthcare. My goal is to support patients in achieving a balanced and fulfilled life by addressing their specific needs and working together to set and reach treatment goals.
I am committed to providing patients with compassionate, comprehensive and individualized care. The mental health of my patients is my top priority as a provider. I personally understand the unique challenges you face growing up with close relatives with severe mental illnesses, who were marginalized and received inadequate healthcare. My goal is to support patients in achieving a balanced and fulfilled life by addressing their specific needs and working together to set and reach treatment goals.

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.

Psychiatry of Indianapolis-NotAcceptingNewClients
Psychiatrist, MD
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Not accepting new clients
Hani Atallah MD, Psychiatry of Indianapolis.
I provide psychiatric care for adults 18 and older living with Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Women’s Health including Peripartum and Perimenopause mood disorders.
I help high-functioning adults struggling with burnout, perfectionism, and the overwhelming demands of their professional and personal lives. Collaborating closely, I address stubborn patterns, enhance work performance, and foster healthier relationships, all while eliminating toxicity.
Hani Atallah MD, Psychiatry of Indianapolis.
I provide psychiatric care for adults 18 and older living with Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Women’s Health including Peripartum and Perimenopause mood disorders.
I help high-functioning adults struggling with burnout, perfectionism, and the overwhelming demands of their professional and personal lives. Collaborating closely, I address stubborn patterns, enhance work performance, and foster healthier relationships, all while eliminating toxicity.

Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Holley and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Indiana, I specialize in ADHD, Anger management / Impulse disorder, Anxiety, Binge eating disorder, Bipolar, Burnout, College & graduate student mental health, Depression, Insomnia & sleep issues, Loss, grief, and bereavement, Maternal mental health/pre/postpartum, OCD, PTSD / Trauma, SAD, Stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Holley and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Indiana, I specialize in ADHD, Anger management / Impulse disorder, Anxiety, Binge eating disorder, Bipolar, Burnout, College & graduate student mental health, Depression, Insomnia & sleep issues, Loss, grief, and bereavement, Maternal mental health/pre/postpartum, OCD, PTSD / Trauma, SAD, Stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.

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.

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.

I am a double boarded family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with a doctorate from RUSH University of Chicago. I have been involved in psychiatric nursing for nearly 30 years and have been a Nurse Practitioner for nine years. I provide a variety of therapy services including CBT, psychotherapy, addiction, anxiety, and grief counseling. Psychotropic medication management is my specialty prescribing for all mood disorders, anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, and ADHD. Helping you to be the best version of yourself is my goal. I hope to meet you soon.
I am a double boarded family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with a doctorate from RUSH University of Chicago. I have been involved in psychiatric nursing for nearly 30 years and have been a Nurse Practitioner for nine years. I provide a variety of therapy services including CBT, psychotherapy, addiction, anxiety, and grief counseling. Psychotropic medication management is my specialty prescribing for all mood disorders, anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, and ADHD. Helping you to be the best version of yourself is my goal. I hope to meet you soon.

I am committed to providing patients with compassionate, comprehensive and individualized care. The mental health of my patients is my top priority as a provider. I personally understand the unique challenges you face growing up with close relatives with severe mental illnesses, who were marginalized and received inadequate healthcare. My goal is to support patients in achieving a balanced and fulfilled life by addressing their specific needs and working together to set and reach treatment goals.
I am committed to providing patients with compassionate, comprehensive and individualized care. The mental health of my patients is my top priority as a provider. I personally understand the unique challenges you face growing up with close relatives with severe mental illnesses, who were marginalized and received inadequate healthcare. My goal is to support patients in achieving a balanced and fulfilled life by addressing their specific needs and working together to set and reach treatment goals.

Are you ready to explore a holistic approach to mental health that focuses on the connection between your mind, body, and lifestyle? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in integrating evidence-based psychiatric care with functional and nutritional strategies to support your overall well-being. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental health is not one-size-fits-all—it’s deeply personal and influenced by various factors, including nutrition, lifestyle, environment, and genetics. I work collaboratively with my clients to uncover the root causes of mental health challenges.
Are you ready to explore a holistic approach to mental health that focuses on the connection between your mind, body, and lifestyle? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in integrating evidence-based psychiatric care with functional and nutritional strategies to support your overall well-being. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental health is not one-size-fits-all—it’s deeply personal and influenced by various factors, including nutrition, lifestyle, environment, and genetics. I work collaboratively with my clients to uncover the root causes of mental health challenges.

Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.

Many of my patients seek care for mood disorders, anxiety, or other mental health conditions that may benefit from medication management as part of their treatment plan. They may have tried therapy alone and found it helpful but feel there is still something missing in their journey towards wellness. These clients want a comprehensive approach that combines both psychotherapy and medication to achieve better mental health outcomes. Their goals include finding the right balance of medication to complement their therapy, improving their quality of life, and gaining stability in their emotional and mental well-being.
Many of my patients seek care for mood disorders, anxiety, or other mental health conditions that may benefit from medication management as part of their treatment plan. They may have tried therapy alone and found it helpful but feel there is still something missing in their journey towards wellness. These clients want a comprehensive approach that combines both psychotherapy and medication to achieve better mental health outcomes. Their goals include finding the right balance of medication to complement their therapy, improving their quality of life, and gaining stability in their emotional and mental well-being.
See more therapy options for Indianapolis
Nearby Searches for Indianapolis
- Avon
- Brownsburg
- Carmel
- Castleton
- Clermont
- Fishers
- Greenfield
- Greenwood
- Plainfield
- Speedway
- Westfield
- Zionsville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
76% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Medication Management |
59% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
26% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Indianapolis?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.