Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Laura Johnston - Helix Health Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Helix Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Tajuana Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tajuana Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.
My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.
(463) 583-8014 View (463) 583-8014
Photo of Sara Spence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Sara Spence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you seeking a personalized approach to mental wellness? At The Serene Sanctuary, we specialize in women’s mental health, using a holistic and integrative approach that focuses on your unique needs. We offer both therapy and medication management to support your mental health journey. With over 10 years of experience in mental health (including more than 5 years as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help guide you through life's challenges.
Are you seeking a personalized approach to mental wellness? At The Serene Sanctuary, we specialize in women’s mental health, using a holistic and integrative approach that focuses on your unique needs. We offer both therapy and medication management to support your mental health journey. With over 10 years of experience in mental health (including more than 5 years as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help guide you through life's challenges.
(463) 223-1223 View (463) 223-1223
Photo of Jennifer McPhee - Brave Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
We believe it should be easy to access the care you need, when you need it. We are an online mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Whether you are starting your mental health journey or seeking additional support, you can count on us to support you at every step.
We believe it should be easy to access the care you need, when you need it. We are an online mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Whether you are starting your mental health journey or seeking additional support, you can count on us to support you at every step.
(463) 348-2569 View (463) 348-2569
Photo of Zacia Green, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zacia Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202
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 Ashley Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC
Ashley Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi, my name is Ashley! As a pediatric nurse of 20 years I saw the struggles that our youth (and their parents) were having with mental health. While seeking care for my own children and finding a limited amount of providers or long waitlists, I felt a calling to be part of the solution. My ideal client is someone who is open to help, even if they are nervous, scared or unsure. I hope you will find me to be a caring and empathetic provider who wants to walk alongside you in yours or your loved ones treatment.
Hi, my name is Ashley! As a pediatric nurse of 20 years I saw the struggles that our youth (and their parents) were having with mental health. While seeking care for my own children and finding a limited amount of providers or long waitlists, I felt a calling to be part of the solution. My ideal client is someone who is open to help, even if they are nervous, scared or unsure. I hope you will find me to be a caring and empathetic provider who wants to walk alongside you in yours or your loved ones treatment.
(317) 836-2579 View (317) 836-2579
Photo of Tanesha McWilliams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tanesha McWilliams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
(317) 527-4041 View (317) 527-4041
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(317) 953-5396 View (317) 953-5396
Photo of Kelly Lynn Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Kelly Lynn Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46216
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.
(463) 888-6806 View (463) 888-6806
Photo of Kristin Clyne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Kristin Clyne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is comfortable managing a variety of mental health disorders. I see clients ages 18 and older. I am most familiar caring for clients who have anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and those who struggle with addiction. I want each of my clients to know I am truly interested in their unique story and know that our session is a judgment free zone. I want to meet people where they are in their journey and help them reach their own personal goals so they can live the life they are so hopeful to have.
Hello! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is comfortable managing a variety of mental health disorders. I see clients ages 18 and older. I am most familiar caring for clients who have anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and those who struggle with addiction. I want each of my clients to know I am truly interested in their unique story and know that our session is a judgment free zone. I want to meet people where they are in their journey and help them reach their own personal goals so they can live the life they are so hopeful to have.
(463) 255-8885 View (463) 255-8885
Photo of Uros Koprivica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46226
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 Sabrina White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Sabrina White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
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
Photo of Dr. Hani Atallah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Hani Atallah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Waitlist for 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.
(317) 754-8736 View (317) 754-8736
Photo of Adam Humphrey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Adam Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
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 Jill Lavonne Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , ANP, PMHNPBC
Jill Lavonne Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , ANP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with 20 years experience. You don't have to struggle alone I am here to help! You will have my undivided attention, patience and compassion. My practice philosophy is 'Holistic,' avoid symptom chasing- get to the underlying problem. If you're tired of trying many different treatments with no results and feel as though no one is listening, you have come to the right place! Together, we will formulate a treatment plan specific to your individual needs.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with 20 years experience. You don't have to struggle alone I am here to help! You will have my undivided attention, patience and compassion. My practice philosophy is 'Holistic,' avoid symptom chasing- get to the underlying problem. If you're tired of trying many different treatments with no results and feel as though no one is listening, you have come to the right place! Together, we will formulate a treatment plan specific to your individual needs.
(463) 275-2783 View (463) 275-2783
Photo of Lauren Alcorn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Lauren Alcorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
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.
(317) 483-8351 View (317) 483-8351
Photo of Auggy Hone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Auggy Hone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Auggy, and I am a PMHNP specializing in mood, anxiolytic, and addiction disorders. A special focus and interest in PTSD and OCD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients. This means we work together to solidify a treatment plan, including the use of medications if necessary. While I may have expertise in this area, I believe that you are the expert when it comes to your health. Therefore, your input during our sessions is of most importance. My goals at the end of the day are to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with your medication regimen while experiencing minimal to no side-effects.
Hello! My name is Auggy, and I am a PMHNP specializing in mood, anxiolytic, and addiction disorders. A special focus and interest in PTSD and OCD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients. This means we work together to solidify a treatment plan, including the use of medications if necessary. While I may have expertise in this area, I believe that you are the expert when it comes to your health. Therefore, your input during our sessions is of most importance. My goals at the end of the day are to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with your medication regimen while experiencing minimal to no side-effects.
(317) 961-7856 View (317) 961-7856
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(317) 458-5454 View (317) 458-5454
Photo of Morgan McCormick, Psychiatrist, MD, PMH-C
Morgan McCormick
Psychiatrist, MD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46208
At Neighborhood Psychiatry, I work to help individuals realize their best versions of themselves. I take pride in developing a collaborative relationship with patients, with a focus on creating a supportive and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns. Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment is not always an easy choice, I do my best to promote a warm and empathic relationship, the best environment to promote change and growth.
At Neighborhood Psychiatry, I work to help individuals realize their best versions of themselves. I take pride in developing a collaborative relationship with patients, with a focus on creating a supportive and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns. Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment is not always an easy choice, I do my best to promote a warm and empathic relationship, the best environment to promote change and growth.
(317) 794-2244 View (317) 794-2244
Photo of Kimberly Grider - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(463) 363-0309 View (463) 363-0309

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
76% ADHD
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Bipolar Disorder
70% Medication Management
58% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Cigna and Evernorth
87% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% 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.

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.