Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Avery Schmidt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Avery Schmidt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Indianapolis, IN 46250
My ideal client is a patient struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diagnoses. They've tried traditional therapies and medications, but haven't found relief. They're seeking a safe, effective, and innovative treatment option that can help them improve their quality of life and regain hope. They want to be able to function normally, enjoy relationships, and pursue their passions without constant pain and suffering.
My ideal client is a patient struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diagnoses. They've tried traditional therapies and medications, but haven't found relief. They're seeking a safe, effective, and innovative treatment option that can help them improve their quality of life and regain hope. They want to be able to function normally, enjoy relationships, and pursue their passions without constant pain and suffering.
(463) 666-3103 View (463) 666-3103
Photo of Hani Michael Atallah - Psychiatry of Indianapolis-NotAcceptingNewClients, Psychiatrist, MD
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.
(317) 961-3408 View (317) 961-3408
Photo of Meko Kokeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Meko Kokeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello, my name is Meko. I am a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who wants to help meet your mental health needs. My primary goal for you is to increase your confidence in your abilities to achieve set goals and to assure you that help is always available. I became a mental health provider simply because, I have identified that I have an innate ability to render compassionate mental health care to those in need. Apart from using clinical skills to diagnose and treatment patients according to their individual needs, I am also committed to listening, providing support, and working with patients to achieve desire outcomes
Hello, my name is Meko. I am a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who wants to help meet your mental health needs. My primary goal for you is to increase your confidence in your abilities to achieve set goals and to assure you that help is always available. I became a mental health provider simply because, I have identified that I have an innate ability to render compassionate mental health care to those in need. Apart from using clinical skills to diagnose and treatment patients according to their individual needs, I am also committed to listening, providing support, and working with patients to achieve desire outcomes
(317) 666-4796 View (317) 666-4796
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Timothy Poquette, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Timothy Poquette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have six years experience providing medication management services, with a specific interest in treating ADHD. I utilize a non-judgmental, open-minded approach to care. I look forward to working with you to create an individualized plan that meets your mental health care needs.
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have six years experience providing medication management services, with a specific interest in treating ADHD. I utilize a non-judgmental, open-minded approach to care. I look forward to working with you to create an individualized plan that meets your mental health care needs.
(463) 842-1318 View (463) 842-1318
Photo of Michelle Porter, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNPBC
Michelle Porter
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNPBC
Indianapolis, IN 46216
Michelle Porter, PMHNP, DNP, is a dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, providing psychiatric care to patients across Indiana. Michelle s approach centers on building a strong provider-client relationship, fostering trust, and understanding with each patient. She genuinely cares about her patients and works collaboratively with them to reach their highest level of functioning. Michelle s ideal patient is one who is committed to their mental health journey and willing to take proactive steps towards their wellbeing.
Michelle Porter, PMHNP, DNP, is a dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, providing psychiatric care to patients across Indiana. Michelle s approach centers on building a strong provider-client relationship, fostering trust, and understanding with each patient. She genuinely cares about her patients and works collaboratively with them to reach their highest level of functioning. Michelle s ideal patient is one who is committed to their mental health journey and willing to take proactive steps towards their wellbeing.
(463) 403-1205 View (463) 403-1205
Photo of Alina L Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Alina L Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Navigating mental health challenges can be daunting, but you don't have to face them alone. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. My extensive experience in both nursing and psychiatry enables me to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. I am committed to providing personalized care, integrating therapy and medication management to support your journey toward mental wellness. Together, we will develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, empowering you to lead a balanced and fulfilling life.
Navigating mental health challenges can be daunting, but you don't have to face them alone. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. My extensive experience in both nursing and psychiatry enables me to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. I am committed to providing personalized care, integrating therapy and medication management to support your journey toward mental wellness. Together, we will develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, empowering you to lead a balanced and fulfilling life.
(463) 295-0889 View (463) 295-0889
Photo of Curtis Stennett, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Curtis Stennett
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46208
At Neighborhood Psychiatry I provide treatment for people who find they are not accomplishing their goals or functioning as well as they would like to in some aspect of their lives. Many times, this is due to things that seem out of their control. I enjoy working with patients to develop individualized plans that address their areas of concern; in the process, sometimes people discover they have more control than they thought.
At Neighborhood Psychiatry I provide treatment for people who find they are not accomplishing their goals or functioning as well as they would like to in some aspect of their lives. Many times, this is due to things that seem out of their control. I enjoy working with patients to develop individualized plans that address their areas of concern; in the process, sometimes people discover they have more control than they thought.
(317) 593-2029 View (317) 593-2029
Photo of Kelly Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
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.
(317) 588-0037 View (317) 588-0037
Photo of Memphis Sandoval, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Memphis Sandoval
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Memphis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in the psychiatric field, specializing in the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, PTSD-related night terrors, gender identity through psychiatric assessment, medication management and psychotherapy. With her vast experience in the medical field, she evaluates and considers her client’s overall health status when diagnosing and developing treatment plans. She values educating her clients on their diagnosis and treatment to promote positive patient-provider relationships.
Memphis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in the psychiatric field, specializing in the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, PTSD-related night terrors, gender identity through psychiatric assessment, medication management and psychotherapy. With her vast experience in the medical field, she evaluates and considers her client’s overall health status when diagnosing and developing treatment plans. She values educating her clients on their diagnosis and treatment to promote positive patient-provider relationships.
(317) 742-6779 View (317) 742-6779
Photo of Morgan McCormick, Psychiatrist, MD, PMH-C
Morgan McCormick
Psychiatrist, MD, PMH-C
3 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 Heather Lett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Heather Lett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach or are ready to try something new! I love learning about my clients, supporting them, and individualizing their goals/plans. I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach or are ready to try something new! I love learning about my clients, supporting them, and individualizing their goals/plans. I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
(317) 751-9959 View (317) 751-9959
Photo of David A Kyrie - Phase Forward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Phase Forward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Indianapolis, IN 46216
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.
(463) 307-0674 View (463) 307-0674
Photo of Abimbola D Oluwasesin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Abimbola D Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, psychotic disorders and many more mental health specialties and diagnosis. I take all major insurances including medicare, medicaid, anthem, Aetna, Cigna, united healthcare /optum, carelon, quest behavioral health.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, psychotic disorders and many more mental health specialties and diagnosis. I take all major insurances including medicare, medicaid, anthem, Aetna, Cigna, united healthcare /optum, carelon, quest behavioral health.
(765) 246-8420 View (765) 246-8420
Photo of Kimberly Grider, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Kimberly Grider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Kimberly Grider is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
Kimberly Grider is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
(463) 583-1893 View (463) 583-1893
Photo of Rwana Abulaban, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Rwana Abulaban
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
(463) 583-1497 View (463) 583-1497
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Indianapolis, IN 46226
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 Courtney Tharp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Courtney Tharp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! I have been a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner for almost 4 years. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, but have primarily focused on treating children and adolescents. I also have a strong passion for helping new parents and families, and am certified in perinatal mental health. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees from Indiana University (go Hoosiers!) and am a member of the Coalition of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses of Indiana (CAPNI).
Hello! I have been a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner for almost 4 years. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, but have primarily focused on treating children and adolescents. I also have a strong passion for helping new parents and families, and am certified in perinatal mental health. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees from Indiana University (go Hoosiers!) and am a member of the Coalition of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses of Indiana (CAPNI).
(463) 283-5580 View (463) 283-5580
Photo of Lois Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Lois Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Lois Hughes, PMHNP-BC . Lois Hughes is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2000. She has a Masters in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health.
Lois Hughes, PMHNP-BC . Lois Hughes is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2000. She has a Masters in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health.
(463) 400-2815 View (463) 400-2815
Photo of Tazia Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Tazia Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Indianapolis, IN 46240
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) 699-4215 View (317) 699-4215

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

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.

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.