Psychiatrists in Merrillville, IN

Photo of Debra Zimmer - Debra Zimmer Mind-Body Weight Loss Expert, Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-C, CNP
Debra Zimmer Mind-Body Weight Loss Expert
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-C, CNP
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, weight issues, or chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. They seek balance, emotional stability, and improved overall health. Their goal is to feel understood and supported with a clear, personalized treatment plan that helps them regain control of their life.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, weight issues, or chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. They seek balance, emotional stability, and improved overall health. Their goal is to feel understood and supported with a clear, personalized treatment plan that helps them regain control of their life.
(219) 327-3516 View (219) 327-3516
Photo of Wajid Khan - Mid-America Mental Health LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Mid-America Mental Health LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Merrillville, IN 46410
Wajid Khan, M.D., Psychiatrist (Indiana and Illinois) Dr. Khan specializes in the psychiatry of children, adolescents, and adults. Common disorders treated include mood problems, anxiety and depression, and other predominantly mental conditions. He is currently accepting new patients.
Wajid Khan, M.D., Psychiatrist (Indiana and Illinois) Dr. Khan specializes in the psychiatry of children, adolescents, and adults. Common disorders treated include mood problems, anxiety and depression, and other predominantly mental conditions. He is currently accepting new patients.
(219) 215-2205 View (219) 215-2205
Photo of Idowu Oshokoya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Idowu Oshokoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Idowu. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you regain balance and improve your mental well-being. With over 12 years of experience, I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, and older adults, offering support tailored to your unique needs. I have provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 8 different teaching hospitals.
Hi there, I'm Idowu. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Chicago, IL. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you regain balance and improve your mental well-being. With over 12 years of experience, I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, and older adults, offering support tailored to your unique needs. I have provided cares for Veterans, minorities, children, homeless, and others at over 8 different teaching hospitals.
(219) 215-4186 View (219) 215-4186
Photo of Tosheta Brown-Greenfield, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Tosheta Brown-Greenfield
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Merrillville, IN 46410
Hi, I’m Tosheta, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, through a holistic approach that integrates medication management, therapy, and lifestyle strategies. My goal is to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered in your mental health journey. Whether you’re seeking guidance for medication options or a collaborative approach to care, I’m here to help you find balance and well-being.
Hi, I’m Tosheta, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, through a holistic approach that integrates medication management, therapy, and lifestyle strategies. My goal is to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered in your mental health journey. Whether you’re seeking guidance for medication options or a collaborative approach to care, I’m here to help you find balance and well-being.
(219) 666-8097 View (219) 666-8097
Photo of Roshanda Grayson-Thomas - Greater Lakes Behavioral Health Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Greater Lakes Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
4 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
Roshanda Grayson-Thomas is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult chronic mental illness including anxiety, depression mood disorders, and addictions Roshanda’s clinical experience includes psychiatric evaluation and assessment, as well as medication management and talk therapy, using the latest evidence-based interventions and treatment modalities. Roshanda has experience working in longterm care, inpatient and outpatient settings.
Roshanda Grayson-Thomas is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult chronic mental illness including anxiety, depression mood disorders, and addictions Roshanda’s clinical experience includes psychiatric evaluation and assessment, as well as medication management and talk therapy, using the latest evidence-based interventions and treatment modalities. Roshanda has experience working in longterm care, inpatient and outpatient settings.
(219) 600-3283 View (219) 600-3283
Photo of Shawn Faust, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Idowu Oshokoya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Idowu Oshokoya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Chicago, IL. I have studied at the Walden University, where I have obtained a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. I do works with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and provides care for patients who are battling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, PTSD, insomnia, and other psychiatric mental health disorders.
Hi, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Chicago, IL. I have studied at the Walden University, where I have obtained a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University. I do works with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and provides care for patients who are battling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, PTSD, insomnia, and other psychiatric mental health disorders.
(773) 232-5526 View (773) 232-5526

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. James Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Dr. James Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Serves Area
I am a double boarded family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with a doctorate from RUSH University of Chicago. I have been involved in psychiatric nursing for nearly 30 years and have been a Nurse Practitioner for nine years. I provide a variety of therapy services including CBT, psychotherapy, addiction, anxiety, and grief counseling. Psychotropic medication management is my specialty prescribing for all mood disorders, anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, and ADHD. Helping you to be the best version of yourself is my goal. I hope to meet you soon.
I am a double boarded family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with a doctorate from RUSH University of Chicago. I have been involved in psychiatric nursing for nearly 30 years and have been a Nurse Practitioner for nine years. I provide a variety of therapy services including CBT, psychotherapy, addiction, anxiety, and grief counseling. Psychotropic medication management is my specialty prescribing for all mood disorders, anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, and ADHD. Helping you to be the best version of yourself is my goal. I hope to meet you soon.
(463) 219-5167 View (463) 219-5167
Photo of M McCray Ashby, Psychiatrist, MD
M McCray Ashby
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. M. McCray Ashby is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 15 years of treating children and adolescents in outpatient settings where he enjoys a multidisciplinary approach. Dr. M. McCray Ashby provides assessment and diagnosis, as well as medication management using an emphatic and client- focused approach to allow for the highest level of care. Dr. M. McCray Ashby enjoys working with children and adolescents and specializes in anxiety disorders including OCD, depressive disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, and behavioral concerns.
Dr. M. McCray Ashby is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 15 years of treating children and adolescents in outpatient settings where he enjoys a multidisciplinary approach. Dr. M. McCray Ashby provides assessment and diagnosis, as well as medication management using an emphatic and client- focused approach to allow for the highest level of care. Dr. M. McCray Ashby enjoys working with children and adolescents and specializes in anxiety disorders including OCD, depressive disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, and behavioral concerns.
(219) 327-2109 View (219) 327-2109
Jennifer Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a double-boarded nurse practitioner in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. My extensive clinical background allows me to see the whole picture, not just the symptoms. I practice functional medicine psychiatry, and I will work to find the origin of your problem so we can solve it together—no Band-Aids here! I have also specialized in child/adolescent mental health for many years and am recognized by Riley’s Children Hospital for being a leader in the area. My approach to mental health begins with a detailed history of your life, from birth to the present.
I am a double-boarded nurse practitioner in Psychiatry and Family Medicine. My extensive clinical background allows me to see the whole picture, not just the symptoms. I practice functional medicine psychiatry, and I will work to find the origin of your problem so we can solve it together—no Band-Aids here! I have also specialized in child/adolescent mental health for many years and am recognized by Riley’s Children Hospital for being a leader in the area. My approach to mental health begins with a detailed history of your life, from birth to the present.
(765) 305-5622 View (765) 305-5622
Photo of Dr. Jennifer S Jimenez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Dr. Jennifer S Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
2 Endorsed
Munster, IN 46321
I am easy going and attentive to my patient’s needs. I provide a safe, non threatening and supportive environment for patients and work hard to establish trust and rapport. I believe in collaborative care and engaging patients and families in treatment decisions. I am not intimidated to take hard cases or see people that have already tried many other treatment avenues. I am passionate about helping other professionals- and recognize that anyone can need mental health treatment and support regardless of career, ethnicity, sexuality, religious beliefs, or social status.
I am easy going and attentive to my patient’s needs. I provide a safe, non threatening and supportive environment for patients and work hard to establish trust and rapport. I believe in collaborative care and engaging patients and families in treatment decisions. I am not intimidated to take hard cases or see people that have already tried many other treatment avenues. I am passionate about helping other professionals- and recognize that anyone can need mental health treatment and support regardless of career, ethnicity, sexuality, religious beliefs, or social status.
View
Photo of Cathy Oplinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN, PNP
Cathy Oplinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN, PNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Everyone has struggles. Moving toward becoming the best version of ourself sometimes requires help. Someone who is non-judgmental and genuinely interested in helping can be that helper.
Everyone has struggles. Moving toward becoming the best version of ourself sometimes requires help. Someone who is non-judgmental and genuinely interested in helping can be that helper.
(317) 942-3059 View (317) 942-3059
Photo of Josephine Omoruyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Josephine Omoruyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in helping individuals manage their mental health through a holistic approach, combining therapy and medication when necessary to support your well-being. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach will be patient-centered and evidence-based to address mental health concerns through a combination of pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions, tailored to the individual's needs, preferences, and cultural background. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space where we can work together to address your concerns and improve your quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in helping individuals manage their mental health through a holistic approach, combining therapy and medication when necessary to support your well-being. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach will be patient-centered and evidence-based to address mental health concerns through a combination of pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions, tailored to the individual's needs, preferences, and cultural background. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space where we can work together to address your concerns and improve your quality of life.
(765) 792-9069 View (765) 792-9069
Photo of Marvelyn Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marvelyn Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Marvelyn Thompson, and I am a licensed Nurse Practitioner holding a Doctorate Degree specializing in mental health care. My goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to your unique needs, focusing on Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and many more, helping you achieve lasting well-being. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to better mental health. My approach to care is centered on providing compassionate, individualized support that focuses on the unique needs and goals of each patient.
Hello, my name is Marvelyn Thompson, and I am a licensed Nurse Practitioner holding a Doctorate Degree specializing in mental health care. My goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to your unique needs, focusing on Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and many more, helping you achieve lasting well-being. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to better mental health. My approach to care is centered on providing compassionate, individualized support that focuses on the unique needs and goals of each patient.
(765) 792-7790 View (765) 792-7790
Photo of Dr. Nyla Fleming, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, ANP
Dr. Nyla Fleming
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, ANP
3 Endorsed
Crown Point, IN 46307
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to make positive changes and seeks a holistic approach to mental health. They are open to exploring practical tools and strategies beyond medication and are ready to take an active role in their journey toward a more balanced, fulfilling life. This client values a collaborative partnership and is committed to taking accountability in working toward a healthier, better version of themselves.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to make positive changes and seeks a holistic approach to mental health. They are open to exploring practical tools and strategies beyond medication and are ready to take an active role in their journey toward a more balanced, fulfilling life. This client values a collaborative partnership and is committed to taking accountability in working toward a healthier, better version of themselves.
(317) 942-3289 View (317) 942-3289
Photo of Abimbola D Oluwasesin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Abimbola D Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Vinicius Teixeira, Psychiatrist, MD
Vinicius Teixeira
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
As a dedicated psychiatrist, my approach centers on providing compassionate, patient-focused care, tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I offer a comprehensive range of services that address the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of well-being. Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with me: Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation of 60 minutes individualized to your needs. Accurate Diagnosis and Clarity. Medication Management that would include monitoring closely for efficacy. Evidence-Based Psychotherapy. Holistic, Patient-Centered Care. Personalized Treatment Plans. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments.
As a dedicated psychiatrist, my approach centers on providing compassionate, patient-focused care, tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I offer a comprehensive range of services that address the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of well-being. Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with me: Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation of 60 minutes individualized to your needs. Accurate Diagnosis and Clarity. Medication Management that would include monitoring closely for efficacy. Evidence-Based Psychotherapy. Holistic, Patient-Centered Care. Personalized Treatment Plans. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments.
(269) 248-7053 View (269) 248-7053
Photo of Regina Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FPA, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Regina Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FPA, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
3 Endorsed
Munster, IN 46321
Hello, I’m Regina! I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 2 decades of healthcare experience. I believe there is help if you are struggling with your mental health, and that help is just a phone call away.
Hello, I’m Regina! I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 2 decades of healthcare experience. I believe there is help if you are struggling with your mental health, and that help is just a phone call away.
(219) 308-3994 View (219) 308-3994
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 Scott Siegall, Psychiatrist, MD
Scott Siegall
Psychiatrist, MD
Munster, IN 46321
Dr. Scott Siegall is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, geriatric and personality disorders. Dr. Siegall provides assessment and diagnosis, as well as medication management focusing on the individual needs of each client using the most recent evidenced-based treatment options.
Dr. Scott Siegall is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, geriatric and personality disorders. Dr. Siegall provides assessment and diagnosis, as well as medication management focusing on the individual needs of each client using the most recent evidenced-based treatment options.
(219) 249-5045 View (219) 249-5045

See more therapy options for Merrillville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Merrillville, IN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Merrillville, IN who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
57% ADHD
57% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
57% Trauma and PTSD
43% Bipolar Disorder
43% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

27 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
83% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Merrillville, IN see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Merrillville?

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.