Psychiatrists in Terre Haute, IN

Photo of Jessica Walsh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Jessica Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Terre Haute, IN 47807
Personalized, Accessible, and Affordable. Evening and weekend availability. Easy online scheduling. My priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. Using a comprehensive and collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly individualized treatment plan and optimized medication strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to get to know you and understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Getting your mental health back on track shouldn't keep you waiting! Schedule online today.
Personalized, Accessible, and Affordable. Evening and weekend availability. Easy online scheduling. My priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. Using a comprehensive and collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly individualized treatment plan and optimized medication strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to get to know you and understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Getting your mental health back on track shouldn't keep you waiting! Schedule online today.
(317) 790-2118 View (317) 790-2118
Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Terre Haute, IN 47807
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
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Photo of Apryl Brown - Mental Health Purpose, Inc. , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, RNBC
Mental Health Purpose, Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, RNBC
2 Endorsed
Terre Haute, IN 47803
Apryl Brown, PMHNP-BC: Board-certified, battle-tested, and proudly holding a PhD from the School of Hard Knocks. With 30+ years in public healthcare and 22+ in community mental health, she treats ages 7–95 (yes, even your teenager) with actual human care. Specializing in psych meds and perinatal mood disorders, Apryl skips the corporate scripts and checkbox therapy. If you want real help—not a rushed refill—she’s your kind of people.
Apryl Brown, PMHNP-BC: Board-certified, battle-tested, and proudly holding a PhD from the School of Hard Knocks. With 30+ years in public healthcare and 22+ in community mental health, she treats ages 7–95 (yes, even your teenager) with actual human care. Specializing in psych meds and perinatal mood disorders, Apryl skips the corporate scripts and checkbox therapy. If you want real help—not a rushed refill—she’s your kind of people.
(812) 706-3194 x5 View (812) 706-3194 x5
Photo of Amanda V Kent, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda V Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
My clients come to me seeking help with various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and many others. My goal is to work with my clients to help them find the right diagnoses so we can development the best treatment and medication strategy for them. You will leave my sessions feeling heard, cared for, and more hopeful.
My clients come to me seeking help with various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and many others. My goal is to work with my clients to help them find the right diagnoses so we can development the best treatment and medication strategy for them. You will leave my sessions feeling heard, cared for, and more hopeful.
(812) 633-8091 View (812) 633-8091

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tai Sowunmi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Tai Sowunmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Tai Sowunmi, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with specialization in children and adult with chronic mental illness .Tai personalized, patient-centered approach to care, empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Tai offers a supportive environment for individuals grappling with various mental health challenges with unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, Tai tailors treatment plans to suit each patient's specific preference. .His compassionate approach fosters a sense of trust in patient.
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Tai Sowunmi, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with specialization in children and adult with chronic mental illness .Tai personalized, patient-centered approach to care, empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Tai offers a supportive environment for individuals grappling with various mental health challenges with unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, Tai tailors treatment plans to suit each patient's specific preference. .His compassionate approach fosters a sense of trust in patient.
(463) 218-9258 View (463) 218-9258

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Rachel Payne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rachel Payne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bloomington, IN 47404
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing in-person and virtual care to adults through Mercury Mental Health, an independent practice based in Bloomington, Indiana. I specialize in compassionate, evidence-based medication management tailored to each person’s unique goals, history, and lived experience.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing in-person and virtual care to adults through Mercury Mental Health, an independent practice based in Bloomington, Indiana. I specialize in compassionate, evidence-based medication management tailored to each person’s unique goals, history, and lived experience.
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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. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomington, IN 47405
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(463) 263-8707 View (463) 263-8707
Photo of Naga Prasuna Vanipenta, Psychiatrist, MD
Naga Prasuna Vanipenta
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Are you having trouble living your fullest life due to anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar/psychotic disorders, substance use disorders or other behavioral health issues? Either you are seeking the diagnosis/treatment for the first time or looking for a better/alternate care, I would like to partner with you and be the driving force to improve your health and achieve your goals while considering your unique needs. My core philosophy for patient care is partnering and empowering you with the options and the knowledge necessary to get best results from the treatment provided.
Are you having trouble living your fullest life due to anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar/psychotic disorders, substance use disorders or other behavioral health issues? Either you are seeking the diagnosis/treatment for the first time or looking for a better/alternate care, I would like to partner with you and be the driving force to improve your health and achieve your goals while considering your unique needs. My core philosophy for patient care is partnering and empowering you with the options and the knowledge necessary to get best results from the treatment provided.
(317) 961-7392 View (317) 961-7392
Photo of Christy Akin - Southern Indiana Mental Health Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Southern Indiana Mental Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Seymour, IN 47274
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
(812) 515-3160 View (812) 515-3160
Photo of Jen Sherohman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, BC
Jen Sherohman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ready for a change but don't know where to start? At the end of your rope and struggling to hang on? Having panic attacks and feel like no one gets it? Mind all over the place and you can't keep your focus? Struggling with up and down moods? Having flashbacks or nightmares? You are not alone!
Ready for a change but don't know where to start? At the end of your rope and struggling to hang on? Having panic attacks and feel like no one gets it? Mind all over the place and you can't keep your focus? Struggling with up and down moods? Having flashbacks or nightmares? You are not alone!
(502) 673-1611 View (502) 673-1611
Photo of Adam Humphrey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Adam Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I’m here to support, educate, and guide you through your mental health journey, but remember—you’re the one in control. You make the final decisions, and I’m here to walk beside you, offering tools, strategies, and encouragement to help you navigate the challenges. Together, we’ll explore what works best for you, celebrate your progress, and build stability for your future. Your journey is unique, and I’m ready to help you take the next step. PLEASE reach out through EMAIL for the fastest response and feel free to share any details of what you are looking for help with.
I’m here to support, educate, and guide you through your mental health journey, but remember—you’re the one in control. You make the final decisions, and I’m here to walk beside you, offering tools, strategies, and encouragement to help you navigate the challenges. Together, we’ll explore what works best for you, celebrate your progress, and build stability for your future. Your journey is unique, and I’m ready to help you take the next step. PLEASE reach out through EMAIL for the fastest response and feel free to share any details of what you are looking for help with.
(317) 751-7164 View (317) 751-7164
Photo of Ronda Owens-Dehmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ronda Owens-Dehmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
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 Kim M Hizer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kim M Hizer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Brownsburg, IN 46112
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
(463) 282-6943 View (463) 282-6943
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Bloomington, IN 47405
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(463) 219-4976 View (463) 219-4976
Photo of Judith Cecil, Psychiatrist, MD
Judith Cecil
Psychiatrist, MD
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Are you wondering if starting medication is the right choice for you? Or, perhaps you are trying to find the right medication that works best for you? Medication can be a very effective way to treat the symptoms of many mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, and more.
Are you wondering if starting medication is the right choice for you? Or, perhaps you are trying to find the right medication that works best for you? Medication can be a very effective way to treat the symptoms of many mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, and more.
(463) 283-5285 View (463) 283-5285
Photo of Jimmy Chenowith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jimmy Chenowith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Avon, IN 46123
Jimmy Chenowith is a Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. He received his Associate's degree in Nursing from Midlands Technical College in South Carolina in 2007. Jimmy went on to receive his Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Western Governors University in 2014, and later completed his Master's degree in nursing in 2021. Jimmy has been practicing as an RN for 17 years prior to becoming an NP. He feels this experience is invaluable and provides a foundation that is unique in its own way.
Jimmy Chenowith is a Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. He received his Associate's degree in Nursing from Midlands Technical College in South Carolina in 2007. Jimmy went on to receive his Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Western Governors University in 2014, and later completed his Master's degree in nursing in 2021. Jimmy has been practicing as an RN for 17 years prior to becoming an NP. He feels this experience is invaluable and provides a foundation that is unique in its own way.
(317) 451-4435 View (317) 451-4435
Photo of Aaron Whiteman, Psychiatrist, DO
Aaron Whiteman
Psychiatrist, DO
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I believe the most important aspects of a quality assessment and therapeutic relationship is active listening and clear communication. I appreciate that everyone has their unique story and personal struggles. Allotting 90 minutes for an initial encouter allows me the time to provide a comprehensive assessment and construct an individualized plan of care. Inherent vulnerabilities, trauma, medical conditions, and unhealthy lifestyles can all contribute to distress and dysfunction. My diverse training and experience enable me to address issues in all of these areas to promote recovery and wellbeing.
I believe the most important aspects of a quality assessment and therapeutic relationship is active listening and clear communication. I appreciate that everyone has their unique story and personal struggles. Allotting 90 minutes for an initial encouter allows me the time to provide a comprehensive assessment and construct an individualized plan of care. Inherent vulnerabilities, trauma, medical conditions, and unhealthy lifestyles can all contribute to distress and dysfunction. My diverse training and experience enable me to address issues in all of these areas to promote recovery and wellbeing.
(317) 708-0153 View (317) 708-0153
Photo of Courtney Tharp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Courtney Tharp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Courtney Tharp and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, but have primarily focused on treating children and adolescents. I also have a strong passion for helping new parents and families, and am certified in perinatal mental health. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees from Indiana University (go Hoosiers!) and am a member of the Coalition of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses of Indiana (CAPNI).
Hello! My name is Courtney Tharp and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, but have primarily focused on treating children and adolescents. I also have a strong passion for helping new parents and families, and am certified in perinatal mental health. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees from Indiana University (go Hoosiers!) and am a member of the Coalition of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses of Indiana (CAPNI).
(463) 283-5580 View (463) 283-5580
Photo of Greta Logan Krause - Krause Wellness, Psychiatrist, DO
Krause Wellness
Psychiatrist, DO
Carmel, IN 46032
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.
(317) 316-3026 View (317) 316-3026

See more therapy options for Terre Haute

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Terre Haute, IN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Terre Haute, IN who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
75% Depression
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Other
100% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Terre Haute, 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 Terre Haute?

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.