Psychiatrists in Tipton County, IN

Photo of Diane Campbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, M, H, N
Diane Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, M, H, N
Tipton, IN 46072
The primary goal of Central Indiana Mental Health Partners is to provide high quality psychotropic medication management to those within the community. Are you currently in therapy, but feel as though you may benefit from medication as well? Do you feel like you could use specialty care to help make sense of your mental health? Let's connect and discuss what Central Indiana Mental Health Partners can offer. Services are currently conducted through a combination of in person and telehealth visits.
The primary goal of Central Indiana Mental Health Partners is to provide high quality psychotropic medication management to those within the community. Are you currently in therapy, but feel as though you may benefit from medication as well? Do you feel like you could use specialty care to help make sense of your mental health? Let's connect and discuss what Central Indiana Mental Health Partners can offer. Services are currently conducted through a combination of in person and telehealth visits.
(317) 406-0998 View (317) 406-0998
Photo of 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).
(317) 342-0727 View (317) 342-0727

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Cheryl Graham - IIPUC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, MBA
IIPUC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, MBA
Lebanon, IN 46052
Life is a challenge for all of us and many of us are doing our best to lead "normal" lives as we deal with the challenges of live. If you are having a little hiccup in life, feelings of uncertainty, uneasiness, anxiety, fear or just feeling down, you need someone who can feel your pain, someone you can connect with, & someone that will walk beside you instead of ahead of you. We are here to listen to you, help you see the beauty of living, & help you bloom into your true self. We prescribe Suboxone, ADHD medications & offer other services to improve your wellbeing. Today I'll give you hope, love, happiness! Please call
Life is a challenge for all of us and many of us are doing our best to lead "normal" lives as we deal with the challenges of live. If you are having a little hiccup in life, feelings of uncertainty, uneasiness, anxiety, fear or just feeling down, you need someone who can feel your pain, someone you can connect with, & someone that will walk beside you instead of ahead of you. We are here to listen to you, help you see the beauty of living, & help you bloom into your true self. We prescribe Suboxone, ADHD medications & offer other services to improve your wellbeing. Today I'll give you hope, love, happiness! Please call
(317) 597-6944 View (317) 597-6944
Photo of Dr. Lanre Olanrewaju, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Dr. Lanre Olanrewaju
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
10 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 28 years of experience in healthcare and 5 years of experience as a nurse practitioner. Throughout my career, I’ve developed a deep commitment to mental health and specialize in treating Depression, PTSD, and Anxiety. I also have particular expertise in the non-stimulant management of ADHD and Anxiety. My goal is always to provide care that’s tailored to each person’s unique needs and circumstances.
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 28 years of experience in healthcare and 5 years of experience as a nurse practitioner. Throughout my career, I’ve developed a deep commitment to mental health and specialize in treating Depression, PTSD, and Anxiety. I also have particular expertise in the non-stimulant management of ADHD and Anxiety. My goal is always to provide care that’s tailored to each person’s unique needs and circumstances.
(463) 278-2343 View (463) 278-2343
Photo of Amy Burchett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amy Burchett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
In 2007, Amy earned her Registered Nurse designation. Amy obtained vast knowledge in cardiac, vascular, and thoracic specialties. Demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning, Amy furthered her studies and became a Nurse Practitioner specializing in Family Medicine in 2021. Recognizing a significant gap in mental health care options for her patients, she obtained her Psychiatric Mental Health degree to enhance the services she offered. In 2024, Amy transitioned to working in substance use and mental health care management.
In 2007, Amy earned her Registered Nurse designation. Amy obtained vast knowledge in cardiac, vascular, and thoracic specialties. Demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning, Amy furthered her studies and became a Nurse Practitioner specializing in Family Medicine in 2021. Recognizing a significant gap in mental health care options for her patients, she obtained her Psychiatric Mental Health degree to enhance the services she offered. In 2024, Amy transitioned to working in substance use and mental health care management.
(765) 679-6616 View (765) 679-6616
Photo of Christy Vogel - Southern Indiana Mental Health Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Southern Indiana Mental Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
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 Jessica Walsh - IN Focus First, Psychiatry Simplified., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
IN Focus First, Psychiatry Simplified.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Indianapolis, IN 46254
We often have next-day appointment availability. Evening appointments available. I am able to assess, diagnose, and prescribe adding evidence-based supplements holistic treatment when warranted. Specialties include ADHD, anxiety, depression, & OCD. By using multiple modalities and a collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly personalized treatment plan and strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Check our our website and sign up to see Jessica today!
We often have next-day appointment availability. Evening appointments available. I am able to assess, diagnose, and prescribe adding evidence-based supplements holistic treatment when warranted. Specialties include ADHD, anxiety, depression, & OCD. By using multiple modalities and a collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly personalized treatment plan and strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Check our our website and sign up to see Jessica today!
(812) 370-8112 View (812) 370-8112
Photo of Dawn Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP
Dawn Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP
Carmel, IN 46033
Your treatment here goes beyond traditional psychiatry — including GeneSight testing to match medications to your unique DNA. No traditional trail-and-error process! You can feel better, faster!
Your treatment here goes beyond traditional psychiatry — including GeneSight testing to match medications to your unique DNA. No traditional trail-and-error process! You can feel better, faster!
(317) 793-3516 View (317) 793-3516
Photo of Andrea Mendenhall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Andrea Mendenhall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I strive to provide my patients with the highest quality care in a compassionate and empathetic manner. No matter the struggle, I want to meet you where you are and provide the tools for overcoming anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, and other mental health conditions. There is hope in seeking mental health care and working together towards holistic health.
I strive to provide my patients with the highest quality care in a compassionate and empathetic manner. No matter the struggle, I want to meet you where you are and provide the tools for overcoming anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, and other mental health conditions. There is hope in seeking mental health care and working together towards holistic health.
(765) 347-9554 View (765) 347-9554
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, prescribes mental health medications, seasoned in experience, and proudly educated by life’s toughest lessons. Located directly in Terre Haute at Corporate Square. Apryl has over 30 years experience, she treats all ages (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. www mentalhealthpurpose com to book. We take select insurance plans, self pay, and offer out of network super bills! Call 812 398 7507
Apryl Brown, PMHNP-BC: Board-certified, prescribes mental health medications, seasoned in experience, and proudly educated by life’s toughest lessons. Located directly in Terre Haute at Corporate Square. Apryl has over 30 years experience, she treats all ages (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. www mentalhealthpurpose com to book. We take select insurance plans, self pay, and offer out of network super bills! Call 812 398 7507
(812) 706-3194 x5 View (812) 706-3194 x5
Photo of Nesrin Abu Ata, Psychiatrist, MD
Nesrin Abu Ata
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
(406) 282-8320 View (406) 282-8320
Photo of Cathy Oplinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN, PNP
Cathy Oplinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN, PNP
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
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 Elizabeth Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Elizabeth Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Mishawaka, IN 46545
Betsy specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and medication management. She also provides medication support for substance use concerns and collaborates closely with patients to ensure treatment plans are practical, effective, and responsive to life changes. Her care is grounded in evidence-based practice and informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles and mindfulness strategies to support long-term symptom management.
Betsy specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and medication management. She also provides medication support for substance use concerns and collaborates closely with patients to ensure treatment plans are practical, effective, and responsive to life changes. Her care is grounded in evidence-based practice and informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles and mindfulness strategies to support long-term symptom management.
(574) 766-6539 View (574) 766-6539
Photo of Danielle Trenelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Danielle Trenelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
South Bend, IN 46613
I am currently accepting new patients at this time. My approach is collaborative and non-directive, and I act as someone who can help identify possible routes through the challenges of your life but will not insist that you must choose a particular path. I am a consultant for you and what troubles you, and together we can identify what it is you care about in life and makes it worth living, what is standing in the way, and how medications and psychotherapy might be able to help you pursue the former and overcome the later.
I am currently accepting new patients at this time. My approach is collaborative and non-directive, and I act as someone who can help identify possible routes through the challenges of your life but will not insist that you must choose a particular path. I am a consultant for you and what troubles you, and together we can identify what it is you care about in life and makes it worth living, what is standing in the way, and how medications and psychotherapy might be able to help you pursue the former and overcome the later.
(574) 500-2027 View (574) 500-2027
We treat treatment-resistant depression by thoughtfully incorporating ketamine-based care when appropriate, including IV ketamine, nasal spray ketamine, and Spravato (esketamine), always as part of comprehensive psychiatric treatment. Treatment is provided in a private room and delivered by Dr. Dull or a dual-trained medical and psychiatric nurse practitioner, who will be in the room for the entire session. This means care is delivered live and in person, not by video or remote monitoring. So, regardless of who is in the room, a medical doctor is always present and supervising your care.
We treat treatment-resistant depression by thoughtfully incorporating ketamine-based care when appropriate, including IV ketamine, nasal spray ketamine, and Spravato (esketamine), always as part of comprehensive psychiatric treatment. Treatment is provided in a private room and delivered by Dr. Dull or a dual-trained medical and psychiatric nurse practitioner, who will be in the room for the entire session. This means care is delivered live and in person, not by video or remote monitoring. So, regardless of who is in the room, a medical doctor is always present and supervising your care.
(317) 720-3755 View (317) 720-3755
Photo of Valerie N. Markley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHCNS, BC
Valerie N. Markley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHCNS, BC
Online Only
Do you struggle with significant highs and lows? Are your moods unpredictable and difficult to manage? Is anxiety or depression overwhelming, and you’re unsure which medications might help you feel more balanced? I’m Valerie Markley, and I’m passionate about helping people stabilize their mental health and reach their full potential. As a career nurse, professor, and former Army officer, I bring compassion and clinical expertise in both brief psychotherapy and medication management. Finding the right medication can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate that process alone—I’m here to walk with you on that journey.
Do you struggle with significant highs and lows? Are your moods unpredictable and difficult to manage? Is anxiety or depression overwhelming, and you’re unsure which medications might help you feel more balanced? I’m Valerie Markley, and I’m passionate about helping people stabilize their mental health and reach their full potential. As a career nurse, professor, and former Army officer, I bring compassion and clinical expertise in both brief psychotherapy and medication management. Finding the right medication can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate that process alone—I’m here to walk with you on that journey.
(812) 577-8708 View (812) 577-8708
Photo of Heather Lett Franklin In, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Heather Lett Franklin In
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Franklin, IN 46131
Hello! Here's a little about me... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes we were made to be able to heal naturally. I utilize more of a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach or are ready to try something new! I love learning about my clients, being very supportive, and individualizing their goals/plans. I also offer support for mommas/families in pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood. Sometimes we just need someone to listen...help support us...and meet right where YOU are! You are the driver of your life!
Hello! Here's a little about me... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes we were made to be able to heal naturally. I utilize more of a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach or are ready to try something new! I love learning about my clients, being very supportive, and individualizing their goals/plans. I also offer support for mommas/families in pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood. Sometimes we just need someone to listen...help support us...and meet right where YOU are! You are the driver of your life!
(317) 751-9959 View (317) 751-9959
Photo of Jennifer Vandivier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Jennifer Vandivier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a diverse and experienced background that allows me to approach each individual with a broad perspective and practical understanding of how mental health concerns can impact all areas of life.
Hello! I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a diverse and experienced background that allows me to approach each individual with a broad perspective and practical understanding of how mental health concerns can impact all areas of life.
(463) 259-7860 View (463) 259-7860
Photo of Akinsanya Obafemi Adebayo - Dynamic Mental Healthcare Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHARM-D, PMHNP,
Dynamic Mental Healthcare Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHARM-D, PMHNP,
Online Only
Patient-Centered Approached At Dynamic Healthcare Services, we prioritize the needs and preferences of our patients. We believe in building strong therapeutic relationships based on trust and collaboration. Our team takes the time to listen to each patient's concerns, understand their unique experiences, and work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Patient-Centered Approached At Dynamic Healthcare Services, we prioritize the needs and preferences of our patients. We believe in building strong therapeutic relationships based on trust and collaboration. Our team takes the time to listen to each patient's concerns, understand their unique experiences, and work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.
(463) 218-9690 View (463) 218-9690
Photo of Tyler Clay Flaningham, Psychiatrist, MD
Tyler Clay Flaningham
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
(317) 406-4698 View (317) 406-4698

See more therapy options for Tipton County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Tipton County, IN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Tipton County, IN who prioritize treating:

50% Depression
50% ADHD
50% Anxiety
50% Trauma and PTSD
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Anger Management
50% Medication Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Anthem
100% United Medical Resources (UMR)

How Psychiatrists in Tipton County, IN see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Tipton 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.

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.