Psychiatrists in Versailles, IN

Valerie Bath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) I perform diagnostic assessment, medication management, and treatment of those with mental health disorders. I focus on individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and BPD, but have openings for any diagnosis. As someone with personal experience of having an eating disorder and BPD I know how hard it is to find providers understanding of the unique challenges faced by the population. I strive to make sure my patients are heard, and work with them to help get them the proper medication and treatment.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) I perform diagnostic assessment, medication management, and treatment of those with mental health disorders. I focus on individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and BPD, but have openings for any diagnosis. As someone with personal experience of having an eating disorder and BPD I know how hard it is to find providers understanding of the unique challenges faced by the population. I strive to make sure my patients are heard, and work with them to help get them the proper medication and treatment.

As a doctorally prepared Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to educate and empower patients to be active in their healthcare decisions. Rather than simply writing a prescription and sending you on your way; I aim to understand your priorities, past experiences, overall functioning, and goals. I am then able to offer a variety of evidence-based treatment options so that we can develop a plan as a team. We'll track symptoms and functioning before and throughout treatment to accelerate recovery and maintain remission.
As a doctorally prepared Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to educate and empower patients to be active in their healthcare decisions. Rather than simply writing a prescription and sending you on your way; I aim to understand your priorities, past experiences, overall functioning, and goals. I am then able to offer a variety of evidence-based treatment options so that we can develop a plan as a team. We'll track symptoms and functioning before and throughout treatment to accelerate recovery and maintain remission.

Kristi Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
Having an serious mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.
Having an serious mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.

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 treatments and medications 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 treatments and medications for them. You will leave my sessions feeling heard, cared for, and more hopeful.

Cody Ernst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
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.

Amy Falkenstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new clients for medication management & therapy for in-person or virtually. Appointments available this week. The first step to change is always the most difficult but the most powerful! Life can be overwhelming for women & new moms with pressures & demands leading to feelings of drowning, unworthy, burned out. When we feel this way, we can have low self-esteem, disconnected, & unhappiness. Too many of us feel stuck in life, sad, lack of motivation, and lonely. New moms can feel overwhelmed with a new baby that leads to constant worry & depression. It is time to get reconnected with YOU-again by getting the support.
Accepting new clients for medication management & therapy for in-person or virtually. Appointments available this week. The first step to change is always the most difficult but the most powerful! Life can be overwhelming for women & new moms with pressures & demands leading to feelings of drowning, unworthy, burned out. When we feel this way, we can have low self-esteem, disconnected, & unhappiness. Too many of us feel stuck in life, sad, lack of motivation, and lonely. New moms can feel overwhelmed with a new baby that leads to constant worry & depression. It is time to get reconnected with YOU-again by getting the support.

Ashlie Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Ashlie Collins, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in ADHD. Ashlie's personalized, patient-centered approach to care empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Ashlie offers tailored treatment plans and uses the most current evidence-based practices to address the complex interplay between physical and mental health. She creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Let Ashlie help you achieve your mental health goals.
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Ashlie Collins, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in ADHD. Ashlie's personalized, patient-centered approach to care empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Ashlie offers tailored treatment plans and uses the most current evidence-based practices to address the complex interplay between physical and mental health. She creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Let Ashlie help you achieve your mental health goals.
Online Psychiatrists

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.

Mind Mechanics -Kimberly S. Huff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
Want a mental health assessment/testing/medication all in one provider? I test for and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and all other mental health needs. Mind Mechanics are highly specialized psychiatric providers. We spend quality time with clients, asking questions other providers do not. I want to know about diet, sleep, work/life balance, spirituality, fears and ways you cope with daily stressors. I will provide a detailed assessment, accurate diagnosis & evidenced-based treatment plan & medication. Let me help you find the BEST version of you!
Want a mental health assessment/testing/medication all in one provider? I test for and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and all other mental health needs. Mind Mechanics are highly specialized psychiatric providers. We spend quality time with clients, asking questions other providers do not. I want to know about diet, sleep, work/life balance, spirituality, fears and ways you cope with daily stressors. I will provide a detailed assessment, accurate diagnosis & evidenced-based treatment plan & medication. Let me help you find the BEST version of you!

Hi, I'm Shelby. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have a profound commitment to holistic healing and unwavering compassion, I have dedicated my career to transforming the lives of those grappling with mental health challenges. I have a genuine dedication to your well-being,I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience.
Hi, I'm Shelby. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have a profound commitment to holistic healing and unwavering compassion, I have dedicated my career to transforming the lives of those grappling with mental health challenges. I have a genuine dedication to your well-being,I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience.

Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46226
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.

My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other mental health challenges that impact their daily life. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about how to regain control of their well-being. With my additional experience as a Registered Nurse Supervisor and educator, I am skilled at navigating the complexities of healthcare systems, managing patient care, and advocating for safety and stabilization. My prior service in the U.S. Navy honed my abilities in leadership, operational management, and teamwork, which continue to guide my approach to clinical practice today.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or other mental health challenges that impact their daily life. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about how to regain control of their well-being. With my additional experience as a Registered Nurse Supervisor and educator, I am skilled at navigating the complexities of healthcare systems, managing patient care, and advocating for safety and stabilization. My prior service in the U.S. Navy honed my abilities in leadership, operational management, and teamwork, which continue to guide my approach to clinical practice today.

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

It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.

I am dedicated to thoughtful and persisting care for my Adolescent, Adult, and Elder Adult patients. I believe it is my job first to help my patients be heard. When one is able to articulate and discuss his or her concerns, then the meaning of these issues comes into better focus. On the basis of this information, we can build a more lasting, substantial plan to best meet one’s unique needs and goals. I am extremely grateful to Vanderbilt and Johns Hopkins for my medical & Psychiatry residency training. I am especially grateful to my patients. They have taught me most of all.
I am dedicated to thoughtful and persisting care for my Adolescent, Adult, and Elder Adult patients. I believe it is my job first to help my patients be heard. When one is able to articulate and discuss his or her concerns, then the meaning of these issues comes into better focus. On the basis of this information, we can build a more lasting, substantial plan to best meet one’s unique needs and goals. I am extremely grateful to Vanderbilt and Johns Hopkins for my medical & Psychiatry residency training. I am especially grateful to my patients. They have taught me most of all.
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.

Magdalene Bambo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Magdalene Bambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program from Indiana University-Purdue University, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Cum Laude, from Indiana State University. Magdalene provides quality evidence-based approaches that is unique and personalized to the need of each client. She partners with her clients to provide safe, empathetic treatment in a non-judgmental manner.
Magdalene Bambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program from Indiana University-Purdue University, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Cum Laude, from Indiana State University. Magdalene provides quality evidence-based approaches that is unique and personalized to the need of each client. She partners with her clients to provide safe, empathetic treatment in a non-judgmental manner.

Shani Berrios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.

Carrie Helle Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Carrie Helle, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric & Family Nurse Practitioner in Illinois and Indiana. Currently, I am studying medical neuroscience at Duke University. Are you feeling weighed down by depression, anxiety, mood swings, or having sleep issues? Do these challenges impact your daily life, relationships, or career, leaving you feeling drained, overwhelmed, or frustrated? You're not alone. I understand the unique struggles that so many face, especially now when stress and mental health challenges are at an all-time high. I accept insurance payments. Also, I accept patients with Optum Medicaid in Indiana.
Hello, I'm Carrie Helle, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric & Family Nurse Practitioner in Illinois and Indiana. Currently, I am studying medical neuroscience at Duke University. Are you feeling weighed down by depression, anxiety, mood swings, or having sleep issues? Do these challenges impact your daily life, relationships, or career, leaving you feeling drained, overwhelmed, or frustrated? You're not alone. I understand the unique struggles that so many face, especially now when stress and mental health challenges are at an all-time high. I accept insurance payments. Also, I accept patients with Optum Medicaid in Indiana.
See more therapy options for Versailles
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Versailles, IN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Versailles, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Medicaid |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Versailles, 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 Versailles?
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.