Psychiatrists in Kokomo, IN

Photo of Conner Buck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Conner Buck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Kokomo, IN 46902
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. I treat a variety of mental health diagnoses in individuals ages 6 and older. I believe in creating a safe and collaborative space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. I am especially committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. I offer both in-person and telehealth services, insurance permitting.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. I treat a variety of mental health diagnoses in individuals ages 6 and older. I believe in creating a safe and collaborative space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. I am especially committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. I offer both in-person and telehealth services, insurance permitting.
(765) 441-7397 View (765) 441-7397
Photo of Shani Berrios, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Shani Berrios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Kokomo, IN 46902
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.
(765) 249-3760 View (765) 249-3760
Photo of Lindsay Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Lindsay Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Kokomo, IN 46902
Hello! My name is Lindsay,. I take pride in being on YOUR team. I will work with you to create the best treatment plan to meet your needs. YOU are in charge of your treatment. I am only your "helper" to get you where you want to be. We will work together to ensure you are confident in our treatment decisions while achieving desired outcomes safely. My ideal patient is someone who is seeking personal growth and healing. Everyone deserves to wake up looking forward to starting their day by identifying the positives in their lives, changing controllable negatives, and coping with uncontrollable negatives that impede happiness!
Hello! My name is Lindsay,. I take pride in being on YOUR team. I will work with you to create the best treatment plan to meet your needs. YOU are in charge of your treatment. I am only your "helper" to get you where you want to be. We will work together to ensure you are confident in our treatment decisions while achieving desired outcomes safely. My ideal patient is someone who is seeking personal growth and healing. Everyone deserves to wake up looking forward to starting their day by identifying the positives in their lives, changing controllable negatives, and coping with uncontrollable negatives that impede happiness!
(317) 620-8394 View (317) 620-8394
Photo of Lindsay M Pringle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, RN
Lindsay M Pringle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, RN
Kokomo, IN 46902
Hello, and thanks for visiting my profile! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide trauma informed care mental health care to include medication management, and psychotherapy practices focused on treating the whole person. This integrative mind body approach is built from my foundation in nursing and background as both a Psychiatric and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I enjoy working with people of all ages, walks of life and cultural/religious backgrounds; from adolescence to geriatric. I provide both in person and virtual appointments, insurance permitting.
Hello, and thanks for visiting my profile! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide trauma informed care mental health care to include medication management, and psychotherapy practices focused on treating the whole person. This integrative mind body approach is built from my foundation in nursing and background as both a Psychiatric and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I enjoy working with people of all ages, walks of life and cultural/religious backgrounds; from adolescence to geriatric. I provide both in person and virtual appointments, insurance permitting.
(765) 725-6968 View (765) 725-6968
Photo of Amanda Roberts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Amanda Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Kokomo, IN 46902
My goal is to help the clients with their mental health goals. Any way I can help a client feel better with their mental health and overall health and well-being is something I always strive for with my patients. If you’re having some anxiety or depression, I want to be able to help decrease this. I also am certified in Botox and filler for cosmetic purposes if you are interested in aesthetics as well. Its always rewarding when I can make someone feel better about something they disliked before.
My goal is to help the clients with their mental health goals. Any way I can help a client feel better with their mental health and overall health and well-being is something I always strive for with my patients. If you’re having some anxiety or depression, I want to be able to help decrease this. I also am certified in Botox and filler for cosmetic purposes if you are interested in aesthetics as well. Its always rewarding when I can make someone feel better about something they disliked before.
(765) 268-5351 View (765) 268-5351
Photo of Martha Stacy Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Martha Stacy Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Kokomo, IN 46902
Mental illness comes in many forms. And making your mental health a priority isn't always easy. So, if you are reading this, then you have already made the first step in getting the help you need to be the best YOU that you can be and I'm proud of you. Together, we can come up with the best treatment plan to help you reach your goals. Your input matters, so I aim to make you feel seen and heard during the process.
Mental illness comes in many forms. And making your mental health a priority isn't always easy. So, if you are reading this, then you have already made the first step in getting the help you need to be the best YOU that you can be and I'm proud of you. Together, we can come up with the best treatment plan to help you reach your goals. Your input matters, so I aim to make you feel seen and heard during the process.
(765) 553-6237 View (765) 553-6237
Photo of Lindsey Morgan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsey Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kokomo, IN 46901
Hello! My name is Lindsey, and I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I am so glad you are here and about to take the first step by asking for help. People often come into our lives for a reason, so I aim to make every interaction meaningful. Helping others reach their true potential through growth and recovery is something I'm passionate about. This starts with listening to understand who you are, what you've been through, and your goals for treatment. Together, we will develop a personalized plan to help guide you toward healing and overall wellness.
Hello! My name is Lindsey, and I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I am so glad you are here and about to take the first step by asking for help. People often come into our lives for a reason, so I aim to make every interaction meaningful. Helping others reach their true potential through growth and recovery is something I'm passionate about. This starts with listening to understand who you are, what you've been through, and your goals for treatment. Together, we will develop a personalized plan to help guide you toward healing and overall wellness.
(463) 466-5391 View (463) 466-5391
Photo of Nick Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Nick Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Kokomo, IN 46902
Hello! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, and addiction. I believe it's my duty to legitimize/de-stigmatize mental health. I am YOUR ally. It's important to me that you feel heard. Be proud of yourself for taking a risk and reaching out to a stranger. Our discussions are confidential. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD, anxiety, or depression their whole lives but haven't been given the time or resources they need to thrive. We will discuss medication management, but also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give homework, and real world tips to work on between our visits.
Hello! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, and addiction. I believe it's my duty to legitimize/de-stigmatize mental health. I am YOUR ally. It's important to me that you feel heard. Be proud of yourself for taking a risk and reaching out to a stranger. Our discussions are confidential. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD, anxiety, or depression their whole lives but haven't been given the time or resources they need to thrive. We will discuss medication management, but also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give homework, and real world tips to work on between our visits.
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Photo of Brittany Bullard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Brittany Bullard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Brittany Bullard and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of practice experience. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. We are also a Spravato treatment center and have current opening for patients seeking Spravato treatment for depression. I am located in Carmel, IN at MindFit Counseling and Wellness Center and am able to see clients in person and virtually.
My name is Brittany Bullard and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of practice experience. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. We are also a Spravato treatment center and have current opening for patients seeking Spravato treatment for depression. I am located in Carmel, IN at MindFit Counseling and Wellness Center and am able to see clients in person and virtually.
(463) 403-1113 View (463) 403-1113
Photo of Sara Spence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Sara Spence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
At The Serene Sanctuary, I help women take back control of their mental wellness through holistic coaching and personalized medication management. As a board-certified PMHNP with 10+ years of experience, I combine lifestyle strategies with compassionate care to support lasting transformation. Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, or ADHD, we’ll create a plan that empowers you to feel clear, grounded, and in charge of your life. Now accepting new clients via telehealth—book your free consultation today.
At The Serene Sanctuary, I help women take back control of their mental wellness through holistic coaching and personalized medication management. As a board-certified PMHNP with 10+ years of experience, I combine lifestyle strategies with compassionate care to support lasting transformation. Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, or ADHD, we’ll create a plan that empowers you to feel clear, grounded, and in charge of your life. Now accepting new clients via telehealth—book your free consultation today.
(463) 223-1223 View (463) 223-1223
Photo of Rwana Abulaban, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Rwana Abulaban
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Serves Area
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 Amber Phebus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Amber Phebus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Amber, and I’m excited to get to know you! I became a nurse in 2008, following my service in the U.S. Navy. I transitioned into mental health in 2016 after my own mental health struggles, and became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2022 after earning my master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. The provider-patient relationship is key to success in mental health care, and I believe we should work together to achieve your goals. I take pride in being compassionate and understanding of your unique situation, and I'm committed to developing a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs.
Hello, I’m Amber, and I’m excited to get to know you! I became a nurse in 2008, following my service in the U.S. Navy. I transitioned into mental health in 2016 after my own mental health struggles, and became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2022 after earning my master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. The provider-patient relationship is key to success in mental health care, and I believe we should work together to achieve your goals. I take pride in being compassionate and understanding of your unique situation, and I'm committed to developing a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs.
(765) 739-3482 View (765) 739-3482
Photo of Zacia Green, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zacia Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hello, I am Zacia. I am here to help you with your mental health needs. I am here to listen to your concerns and come up with a treatment plan that best suits you. I am a goal-oriented provider. I like to help my patients set realistic and achievable goals and help them overcome obstacles. I strive to be a provider that is approachable, and someone my patients will find comfort in confiding in. I have flexible hours and evening/weekend appointments if needed. I look forward to meeting you and helping you though whatever it is that may be preventing you from obtaining that level of serenity that you desire.
Hello, I am Zacia. I am here to help you with your mental health needs. I am here to listen to your concerns and come up with a treatment plan that best suits you. I am a goal-oriented provider. I like to help my patients set realistic and achievable goals and help them overcome obstacles. I strive to be a provider that is approachable, and someone my patients will find comfort in confiding in. I have flexible hours and evening/weekend appointments if needed. I look forward to meeting you and helping you though whatever it is that may be preventing you from obtaining that level of serenity that you desire.
(463) 465-2137 View (463) 465-2137

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC
Ashley Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Ronda Owens-Dehmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ronda Owens-Dehmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.
(317) 561-5178 View (317) 561-5178
Photo of Diane Campbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, M, H, N
Diane Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, M, H, N
Tipton, IN 46072
The primary goal of Central Indiana Mental Health Partners is to provide high quality psychotropic medication management to those within the community. Are you currently in therapy, but feel as though you may benefit from medication as well? Do you feel like you could use specialty care to help make sense of your mental health? Let's connect and discuss what Central Indiana Mental Health Partners can offer. Services are currently conducted through a combination of in person and telehealth visits.
The primary goal of Central Indiana Mental Health Partners is to provide high quality psychotropic medication management to those within the community. Are you currently in therapy, but feel as though you may benefit from medication as well? Do you feel like you could use specialty care to help make sense of your mental health? Let's connect and discuss what Central Indiana Mental Health Partners can offer. Services are currently conducted through a combination of in person and telehealth visits.
(317) 406-0998 View (317) 406-0998
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(463) 219-5109 View (463) 219-5109
Photo of Brandi Cecil - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Sheridan, IN 46069
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) 363-0507 View (463) 363-0507
Photo of Dr. Zeba Madni - LifeStance Health - Carmel, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health - Carmel
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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) 946-0764 View (463) 946-0764
Photo of Mind Mechanics-Kristin A Manning, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MBA, APRNFNP, PMHNP
Mind Mechanics-Kristin A Manning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MBA, APRNFNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Your mental health is important to your overall health and well-being. If you suffer from mental health concerns you may need to seek a practitioner who specializes exclusively in mental health and can perform testing, appropriately diagnose and prescribe medication in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I listen to you to fully understand your individual needs and am dedicated in partnering with you along your journey to improve your quality of life. If you want to begin your mental wellness journey, email me. You will be one step closer to being able to say, "I've never felt better."
Your mental health is important to your overall health and well-being. If you suffer from mental health concerns you may need to seek a practitioner who specializes exclusively in mental health and can perform testing, appropriately diagnose and prescribe medication in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I listen to you to fully understand your individual needs and am dedicated in partnering with you along your journey to improve your quality of life. If you want to begin your mental wellness journey, email me. You will be one step closer to being able to say, "I've never felt better."
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See more therapy options for Kokomo

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kokomo, IN

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Psychiatrists in Kokomo, IN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
85% Medication Management
77% Addiction
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
91% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Kokomo, IN see their clients

92% In Person and Online
8% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kokomo?

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.