Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN

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.

Alina L Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 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.

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.

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.

Meko Kokeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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

Dr. Cox is a board certified psychiatrist who welcomes adults from all backgrounds and over a wide breadth of diagnoses. His experience with mental health issues in various clinical settings includes extensive inpatient, outpatient, military, and community service. Throughout these experiences, he has refined a dedication to the most comprehensive treatment and looks forward to engaging with those who are looking to improve any facet of their mental wellbeing.
Dr. Cox is a board certified psychiatrist who welcomes adults from all backgrounds and over a wide breadth of diagnoses. His experience with mental health issues in various clinical settings includes extensive inpatient, outpatient, military, and community service. Throughout these experiences, he has refined a dedication to the most comprehensive treatment and looks forward to engaging with those who are looking to improve any facet of their mental wellbeing.

Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
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.

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 McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
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.

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.

I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages. Our minds and bodies work together and when one area is not healthy, other areas can struggle as well. My goal is to assist in rebuilding a healthier and happier person inside and out.
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages. Our minds and bodies work together and when one area is not healthy, other areas can struggle as well. My goal is to assist in rebuilding a healthier and happier person inside and out.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Abimbola D Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
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.

Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46226
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.

I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.

Jenny has almost three decades of experience caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. She graduated from Indiana University in 1993 with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and again in 2001 with her Master of Science in Nursing. In 2018, she became a Certified Pediatric Mental Health Specialist. Jenny is double certified in pediatrics and pediatric mental health. She has provided care for infants, children and adolescents as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner for 20 years.
Jenny has almost three decades of experience caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. She graduated from Indiana University in 1993 with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and again in 2001 with her Master of Science in Nursing. In 2018, she became a Certified Pediatric Mental Health Specialist. Jenny is double certified in pediatrics and pediatric mental health. She has provided care for infants, children and adolescents as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner for 20 years.

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.

Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.

Stephanie Fortman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a holistic approach to mental health, focusing on the mind-body connection. My goal is not just to manage symptoms but to support your overall well-being. We'll explore medication options when needed and look at how lifestyle factors like sleep, diet, exercise, and stress impact your mental health. Together, we’ll create a balanced plan for healing and lasting recovery. I'm here to listen, support, and empower you as we work toward your goals.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I take a holistic approach to mental health, focusing on the mind-body connection. My goal is not just to manage symptoms but to support your overall well-being. We'll explore medication options when needed and look at how lifestyle factors like sleep, diet, exercise, and stress impact your mental health. Together, we’ll create a balanced plan for healing and lasting recovery. I'm here to listen, support, and empower you as we work toward your goals.

IIPUC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, MBA
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Life is a challenge for all of us and many of us are doing our best to lead "normal" lives as we deal with the challenges of live. If you are having a little hiccup in life, feelings of uncertainty, uneasiness, anxiety, fear or just feeling down, you need someone who can feel your pain, someone you can connect with, & someone that will walk beside you instead of ahead of you. We are here to listen to you, help you see the beauty of living, & help you bloom into your true self. We prescribe Suboxone, ADHD medications & offer other services to improve your wellbeing. Today I'll give you hope, love, happiness! Please call
Life is a challenge for all of us and many of us are doing our best to lead "normal" lives as we deal with the challenges of live. If you are having a little hiccup in life, feelings of uncertainty, uneasiness, anxiety, fear or just feeling down, you need someone who can feel your pain, someone you can connect with, & someone that will walk beside you instead of ahead of you. We are here to listen to you, help you see the beauty of living, & help you bloom into your true self. We prescribe Suboxone, ADHD medications & offer other services to improve your wellbeing. Today I'll give you hope, love, happiness! Please call

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.
See more therapy options for Indianapolis
Nearby Searches for Indianapolis
- Avon
- Brownsburg
- Carmel
- Castleton
- Clermont
- Fishers
- Greenfield
- Greenwood
- McCordsville
- Plainfield
- Speedway
- Zionsville
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
87% | Aetna |
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
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.
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.