Psychiatrists in Scott County, IN

The stigma of mental health disorders and/or addiction often stops people from seeking assistance for several reasons. Fear of judgement. Fear of being treated like a number, not a human being. Fear of being "told" what the treatment plan is. I believe in creating a safe space for the patient and provider to build trust, determine long-term and short-term goals which leads to the start of a successful journey together. Transportation, time and availability can present roadblocks to seeking assistance. Telehealth services are available as well as crisis appointments.
The stigma of mental health disorders and/or addiction often stops people from seeking assistance for several reasons. Fear of judgement. Fear of being treated like a number, not a human being. Fear of being "told" what the treatment plan is. I believe in creating a safe space for the patient and provider to build trust, determine long-term and short-term goals which leads to the start of a successful journey together. Transportation, time and availability can present roadblocks to seeking assistance. Telehealth services are available as well as crisis appointments.

Southern Indiana Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you tired as soon as you wake up? Or going to bed and laying awake because you keep replaying your conversations, and actions over and over in your head? Or maybe your running around all day long super busy trying to get things done, and at the end of the day you realize you didn't much of anything done. Some people wonder if the things they struggle with are normal, and often might feel like they are the only ones who experience these issues. The truth is if you're asking yourself this, then it causing you some distress, which is not normal and to your surprise, you are not alone. I work with patients to create treatment plans
Are you tired as soon as you wake up? Or going to bed and laying awake because you keep replaying your conversations, and actions over and over in your head? Or maybe your running around all day long super busy trying to get things done, and at the end of the day you realize you didn't much of anything done. Some people wonder if the things they struggle with are normal, and often might feel like they are the only ones who experience these issues. The truth is if you're asking yourself this, then it causing you some distress, which is not normal and to your surprise, you are not alone. I work with patients to create treatment plans

Marlowe M Spalding
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Marlowe Spalding is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for fostering mental wellness in the community. With a nursing career that began in 2008, Marlowe brings over a decade of experience to the table. She earned her Master’s degree in 2021 and has since focused on community mental health, making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals of all ages in the states of Kentucky and Indiana communities. She has a passion and wellness to work with patients suffering from deficiencies related to trauma throughout their lives.
Marlowe Spalding is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for fostering mental wellness in the community. With a nursing career that began in 2008, Marlowe brings over a decade of experience to the table. She earned her Master’s degree in 2021 and has since focused on community mental health, making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals of all ages in the states of Kentucky and Indiana communities. She has a passion and wellness to work with patients suffering from deficiencies related to trauma throughout their lives.
Online Psychiatrists

My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.

I have years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various psychiatric diagnosis. I treat depression, anxiety, and mood disorders via my virtual platform. I do not treat ADHD/ADD symptoms, substance abuse, or prescribe any controlled substances via my virtual practice. Intake appointments generally take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour. I will complete a psychiatric evaluation and provide a diagnosis (if appropriate). We will then discuss a treatment plan and follow up. We will determine the need for medication management and individual therapy based on symptoms and needs.
I have years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various psychiatric diagnosis. I treat depression, anxiety, and mood disorders via my virtual platform. I do not treat ADHD/ADD symptoms, substance abuse, or prescribe any controlled substances via my virtual practice. Intake appointments generally take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour. I will complete a psychiatric evaluation and provide a diagnosis (if appropriate). We will then discuss a treatment plan and follow up. We will determine the need for medication management and individual therapy based on symptoms and needs.

Margaret Beymer is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana. Are you saying to yourself, I feel stuck Do you wake up thinking, what's the point? Have you wondered why no one seems to notice or care Margaret cares. Since 2012, Margaret has been working in the medical field and heard these concerns repeatedly. Having grown up in a family with five children, she also knows personally what its like to be overlooked, lost, or trapped. This collective experience means she's developed an unparalleled persistence to get to the root of an issue. Margaret helps her clients work through layers to reach a better quality of life
Margaret Beymer is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana. Are you saying to yourself, I feel stuck Do you wake up thinking, what's the point? Have you wondered why no one seems to notice or care Margaret cares. Since 2012, Margaret has been working in the medical field and heard these concerns repeatedly. Having grown up in a family with five children, she also knows personally what its like to be overlooked, lost, or trapped. This collective experience means she's developed an unparalleled persistence to get to the root of an issue. Margaret helps her clients work through layers to reach a better quality of life

Precious Jimbola Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46208
I am Precious, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with a passion for empowering individuals on their mental health journeys. While my current professional affiliation is with Twinkle Peds Psych, I also welcome adult clients.
I believe in a collaborative approach to mental healthcare, integrating medication management with attentive listening. I prioritize quality over quantity, focusing on deeply understanding your unique story to create a personalized treatment plan.
I offer comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health concerns, with the goal of fostering lasting stability and progressive healing.
I am Precious, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with a passion for empowering individuals on their mental health journeys. While my current professional affiliation is with Twinkle Peds Psych, I also welcome adult clients.
I believe in a collaborative approach to mental healthcare, integrating medication management with attentive listening. I prioritize quality over quantity, focusing on deeply understanding your unique story to create a personalized treatment plan.
I offer comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health concerns, with the goal of fostering lasting stability and progressive healing.

My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.
My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.

Jennifer Vandivier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold advanced training in diagnosing and treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other complex psychiatric needs. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel empowered to discuss your personal challenges. My approach is holistic & collaborative, working closely with you as we develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.
Hello! I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold advanced training in diagnosing and treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other complex psychiatric needs. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel empowered to discuss your personal challenges. My approach is holistic & collaborative, working closely with you as we develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.

Sarah Miller is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelors in Psychology from Indiana University, a Bachelors of Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Masters in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. Sarah helps clients by providing holistic/well rounded care that focuses on minimizing the need for medications and improving overall satisfaction with life. She provides a comfortable environment that allows for open communication and active listening.
Sarah Miller is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelors in Psychology from Indiana University, a Bachelors of Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Masters in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. Sarah helps clients by providing holistic/well rounded care that focuses on minimizing the need for medications and improving overall satisfaction with life. She provides a comfortable environment that allows for open communication and active listening.

Hello. I provide individualized medication management and therapy for adults with conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, and problems related to trauma/PTSD.
Hello. I provide individualized medication management and therapy for adults with conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, and problems related to trauma/PTSD.

Christopher Lawrence Mercer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a diverse background in mental health and a strong foundation in patient-centered care, I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families on their wellness journeys. I draw from experience in behavioral counseling, elementary education, and critical care, blending compassionate care with evidence-based treatments to help each patient achieve their fullest potential. My approach is rooted in understanding, empathy, and empowerment, with a commitment to making mental health support accessible and impactful for every individual I work with
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a diverse background in mental health and a strong foundation in patient-centered care, I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families on their wellness journeys. I draw from experience in behavioral counseling, elementary education, and critical care, blending compassionate care with evidence-based treatments to help each patient achieve their fullest potential. My approach is rooted in understanding, empathy, and empowerment, with a commitment to making mental health support accessible and impactful for every individual I work with

At Neighborhood Psychiatry I provide treatment for people who find they are not accomplishing their goals or functioning as well as they would like to in some aspect of their lives. Many times, this is due to things that seem out of their control. I enjoy working with patients to develop individualized plans that address their areas of concern; in the process, sometimes people discover they have more control than they thought.
At Neighborhood Psychiatry I provide treatment for people who find they are not accomplishing their goals or functioning as well as they would like to in some aspect of their lives. Many times, this is due to things that seem out of their control. I enjoy working with patients to develop individualized plans that address their areas of concern; in the process, sometimes people discover they have more control than they thought.

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.

Are you a high-functioning adult with ADHD? If so, you know how untreated ADHD can significantly impact your life. You may struggle with focus, procrastination, time management, and organization. You may also feel overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed. At Indy ADHD, we understand. Dr. Ellingsworth offers an accessible, understanding, and specialized care model for adults with ADHD. We use cutting-edge technologies and research to provide tailored treatment plans that take into account your unique needs. Dr. Ellingsworth offers Telehealth appointments and transparent pricing, so you can get the care you need without breaking the bank.
Are you a high-functioning adult with ADHD? If so, you know how untreated ADHD can significantly impact your life. You may struggle with focus, procrastination, time management, and organization. You may also feel overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed. At Indy ADHD, we understand. Dr. Ellingsworth offers an accessible, understanding, and specialized care model for adults with ADHD. We use cutting-edge technologies and research to provide tailored treatment plans that take into account your unique needs. Dr. Ellingsworth offers Telehealth appointments and transparent pricing, so you can get the care you need without breaking the bank.

Kristy Page
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Kristy Page is a board-certified FNP and PMHNP. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Purdue University and her Master of Science in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner Degree from Ball State University and her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Kristy is extremely passionate about the mental health and well-being of her patients. Kristy is licensed in both Indiana and Florida. Kristy is accepting new patients in both states and does in-person or virtual visits.
Kristy Page is a board-certified FNP and PMHNP. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Purdue University and her Master of Science in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner Degree from Ball State University and her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Kristy is extremely passionate about the mental health and well-being of her patients. Kristy is licensed in both Indiana and Florida. Kristy is accepting new patients in both states and does in-person or virtual visits.

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.

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.

Madeline Briere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am the co-owner and operator of Clear Perspectives, LLC, an outpatient family mental health practice in Indianapolis, IN. I believe in a holistic approach to mental healthcare and utilize a variety of techniques including psychiatric medications alongside nutraceuticals (or supplements) with some behavioral therapy and lifestyle interventions in order to create personalized treatment plans. I believe that mental health symptoms rarely exist in a vacuum and love to work with entire families and/or support systems to ensure I am addressing the whole picture.
I am the co-owner and operator of Clear Perspectives, LLC, an outpatient family mental health practice in Indianapolis, IN. I believe in a holistic approach to mental healthcare and utilize a variety of techniques including psychiatric medications alongside nutraceuticals (or supplements) with some behavioral therapy and lifestyle interventions in order to create personalized treatment plans. I believe that mental health symptoms rarely exist in a vacuum and love to work with entire families and/or support systems to ensure I am addressing the whole picture.

Cody Ernst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
If you're living in the Midwest and struggling with a serious mental illness that's making it difficult to work, keep up with school, and maintain healthy relationships, I'm here to help. As a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience, I understand the unique challenges facing individuals in the region and offer personalized treatment plans that address their specific needs and goals. You can rely on me if you want to feel heard, valued, and understood so you can safely share your thoughts and feelings while receiving excellent treatment.
If you're living in the Midwest and struggling with a serious mental illness that's making it difficult to work, keep up with school, and maintain healthy relationships, I'm here to help. As a highly skilled Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience, I understand the unique challenges facing individuals in the region and offer personalized treatment plans that address their specific needs and goals. You can rely on me if you want to feel heard, valued, and understood so you can safely share your thoughts and feelings while receiving excellent treatment.
See more therapy options for Scott County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Scott County, IN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Scott County, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Scott County, IN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Scott County?
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.