Psychiatrists in Vigo County, IN

Photo of Apryl Brown - Mental Health Purpose, Inc. , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, RNBC
Mental Health Purpose, Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, RNBC
1 Endorsed
Terre Haute, IN 47803
Apryl is a Board Certified Psychiatric NP who prescribes medication for mental health conditions. As a Psych NP prescriber dedicated to improving mental health services within the community she incorporates a holistic approach that focuses on empowering you. With over 30 years of experience in public healthcare, including 22 + years exclusive to mental health, Apryl brings a distinctive perspective cultivated in various settings, such as group homes, hospitals, and corrections. Offering in person and Virtual sessions. Call today! 812-398-7507 www Mentalhealthpurpose com
Apryl is a Board Certified Psychiatric NP who prescribes medication for mental health conditions. As a Psych NP prescriber dedicated to improving mental health services within the community she incorporates a holistic approach that focuses on empowering you. With over 30 years of experience in public healthcare, including 22 + years exclusive to mental health, Apryl brings a distinctive perspective cultivated in various settings, such as group homes, hospitals, and corrections. Offering in person and Virtual sessions. Call today! 812-398-7507 www Mentalhealthpurpose com
(812) 706-3194 x5 View (812) 706-3194 x5
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 Jessica Walsh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Jessica Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
2 Endorsed
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 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

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Femi Akinsanya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Femi Akinsanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
(463) 232-7332 View (463) 232-7332
Photo of Jill Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jill Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), and I have been working in mental health for over ten years. I specialize in medication management and am confident in treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), and I have been working in mental health for over ten years. I specialize in medication management and am confident in treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders.
(765) 727-8023 View (765) 727-8023
Photo of Tazia Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Tazia Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Greenwood, IN 46143
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, or mood disorders and is seeking support to regain control of their life. They may struggle with self-doubt, difficulty managing emotions, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to find personalized strategies for healing. Their goal is to build resilience, improve self-confidence, and create a healthier balance in life. They are ready to take steps toward healing and want guidance in navigating their journey.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, or mood disorders and is seeking support to regain control of their life. They may struggle with self-doubt, difficulty managing emotions, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to find personalized strategies for healing. Their goal is to build resilience, improve self-confidence, and create a healthier balance in life. They are ready to take steps toward healing and want guidance in navigating their journey.
(317) 676-5353 View (317) 676-5353
Photo of Michelle Porter, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNPBC
Michelle Porter
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNPBC
Indianapolis, IN 46216
Michelle Porter, PMHNP, DNP, is a dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, providing psychiatric care to patients across Indiana. Michelle s approach centers on building a strong provider-client relationship, fostering trust, and understanding with each patient. She genuinely cares about her patients and works collaboratively with them to reach their highest level of functioning. Michelle s ideal patient is one who is committed to their mental health journey and willing to take proactive steps towards their wellbeing.
Michelle Porter, PMHNP, DNP, is a dedicated Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, providing psychiatric care to patients across Indiana. Michelle s approach centers on building a strong provider-client relationship, fostering trust, and understanding with each patient. She genuinely cares about her patients and works collaboratively with them to reach their highest level of functioning. Michelle s ideal patient is one who is committed to their mental health journey and willing to take proactive steps towards their wellbeing.
(463) 403-1205 View (463) 403-1205
Photo of Jan Carnaghi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Jan Carnaghi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Hello, I’m Jan Carnaghi, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of experience supporting individuals through life's challenges. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can feel daunting, but I’m here to make that journey easier for you. I offer psychiatric services specialized in mental health care, including medication management, therapy, and guidance for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health concerns: I believe in working together with my patients to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values, goals, and lifestyle.
Hello, I’m Jan Carnaghi, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of experience supporting individuals through life's challenges. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can feel daunting, but I’m here to make that journey easier for you. I offer psychiatric services specialized in mental health care, including medication management, therapy, and guidance for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health concerns: I believe in working together with my patients to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your values, goals, and lifestyle.
(317) 707-4807 View (317) 707-4807
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Westfield, IN 46074
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(317) 548-0037 View (317) 548-0037
Photo of Yahya Saeed, Psychiatrist, MD
Yahya Saeed
Psychiatrist, MD
Indianapolis, IN 46204
I am excited to announce that SinclairMethod is now providing online alcohol treatment to all residents of Texas and Indiana. The Sinclair Method (TSM) is an evidence-based treatment using the FDA-approved medication Naltrexone to gradually reduce problem drinking.
I am excited to announce that SinclairMethod is now providing online alcohol treatment to all residents of Texas and Indiana. The Sinclair Method (TSM) is an evidence-based treatment using the FDA-approved medication Naltrexone to gradually reduce problem drinking.
(713) 820-6908 View (713) 820-6908
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 Nick Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Nick Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, and addiction. I believe it's my duty to legitimize/de-stigmatize mental health. I am YOUR ally. It's important to me that you feel heard. Be proud of yourself for taking a risk and reaching out to a stranger. Our discussions are confidential. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD, anxiety, or depression their whole lives but haven't been given the time or resources they need to thrive. We will discuss medication management, but also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give homework, and real world tips to work on between our visits.
Hello! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, mood disorders, and addiction. I believe it's my duty to legitimize/de-stigmatize mental health. I am YOUR ally. It's important to me that you feel heard. Be proud of yourself for taking a risk and reaching out to a stranger. Our discussions are confidential. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD, anxiety, or depression their whole lives but haven't been given the time or resources they need to thrive. We will discuss medication management, but also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give homework, and real world tips to work on between our visits.
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Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Greenwood, IN 46143
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) 210-1444 View (463) 210-1444
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
West Lafayette, IN 47907
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) 252-3548 View (463) 252-3548
Photo of Brooke Peterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Brooke Peterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Brownsburg, IN 46112
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
(317) 520-8904 View (317) 520-8904
Photo of Alina L Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Alina L Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Navigating mental health challenges can be daunting, but you don't have to face them alone. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. My extensive experience in both nursing and psychiatry enables me to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. I am committed to providing personalized care, integrating therapy and medication management to support your journey toward mental wellness. Together, we will develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, empowering you to lead a balanced and fulfilling life.
Navigating mental health challenges can be daunting, but you don't have to face them alone. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health care. My extensive experience in both nursing and psychiatry enables me to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. I am committed to providing personalized care, integrating therapy and medication management to support your journey toward mental wellness. Together, we will develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, empowering you to lead a balanced and fulfilling life.
(463) 295-0889 View (463) 295-0889
Photo of Shawn McClure - Brightside Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(463) 293-1577 View (463) 293-1577
Photo of Brianna Kesterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brianna Kesterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Hello! My name is Bri, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I work with people ages 5 and up in the greater Lafayette and Indianapolis areas. Mental health is essential to overall wellbeing, and I want you to feel empowered and informed to make decisions about your care.
Hello! My name is Bri, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I work with people ages 5 and up in the greater Lafayette and Indianapolis areas. Mental health is essential to overall wellbeing, and I want you to feel empowered and informed to make decisions about your care.
(765) 266-3406 View (765) 266-3406
Photo of Timothy Poquette, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Timothy Poquette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have six years experience providing medication management services, with a specific interest in treating ADHD. I utilize a non-judgmental, open-minded approach to care. I look forward to working with you to create an individualized plan that meets your mental health care needs.
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have six years experience providing medication management services, with a specific interest in treating ADHD. I utilize a non-judgmental, open-minded approach to care. I look forward to working with you to create an individualized plan that meets your mental health care needs.
(463) 842-1318 View (463) 842-1318

See more therapy options for Vigo County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Vigo County, IN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Vigo County, 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 Vigo County, IN see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Vigo 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.