Psychiatrists in West Lafayette, IN

Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat a wide variety of mental health issues for all ages. My goal is to ensure I work alongside the patient to ensure they are an active participant in their treatment and plan. I work with patients ranging from childhood to late adulthood. I most often work with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide a varied approach based on the patient's individual needs but may include behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, and biological approaches.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat a wide variety of mental health issues for all ages. My goal is to ensure I work alongside the patient to ensure they are an active participant in their treatment and plan. I work with patients ranging from childhood to late adulthood. I most often work with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide a varied approach based on the patient's individual needs but may include behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, and biological approaches.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication management and psychotherapy services using top-tier, evidence-based approaches customized to meet the unique needs of each client. I recognize that mental health is often highly stigmatized, which is why I am committed to treating everyone with dignity and respect. I take great pleasure in working with clients from diverse backgrounds, as I firmly believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication management and psychotherapy services using top-tier, evidence-based approaches customized to meet the unique needs of each client. I recognize that mental health is often highly stigmatized, which is why I am committed to treating everyone with dignity and respect. I take great pleasure in working with clients from diverse backgrounds, as I firmly believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care.

I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.

I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in helping individuals manage their mental health through a holistic approach, combining therapy and medication when necessary to support your well-being. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach will be patient-centered and evidence-based to address mental health concerns through a combination of pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions, tailored to the individual's needs, preferences, and cultural background. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space where we can work together to address your concerns and improve your quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in helping individuals manage their mental health through a holistic approach, combining therapy and medication when necessary to support your well-being. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach will be patient-centered and evidence-based to address mental health concerns through a combination of pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions, tailored to the individual's needs, preferences, and cultural background. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space where we can work together to address your concerns and improve your quality of life.

Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47907
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.

Tazia Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47907
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.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 14 years of experience treating clients from various backgrounds. I am extremely passionate about providing quality, compassionate care that encourages the client to be a co-pilot in their care. As a PMHNP, my approach to providing mental healthcare is holistic. I aim to address the whole person, which includes assessing mental health needs, diagnosing psychiatric conditions, providing therapy, medication management, and individualized care based on each individual's unique life circumstances.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have over 14 years of experience treating clients from various backgrounds. I am extremely passionate about providing quality, compassionate care that encourages the client to be a co-pilot in their care. As a PMHNP, my approach to providing mental healthcare is holistic. I aim to address the whole person, which includes assessing mental health needs, diagnosing psychiatric conditions, providing therapy, medication management, and individualized care based on each individual's unique life circumstances.

Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47907
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.

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.

As a dedicated psychiatrist, my approach centers on providing compassionate, patient-focused care, tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I offer a comprehensive range of services that address the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of well-being. Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with me:
Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation of 60 minutes individualized to your needs.
Accurate Diagnosis and Clarity.
Medication Management that would include monitoring closely for efficacy.
Evidence-Based Psychotherapy.
Holistic, Patient-Centered Care.
Personalized Treatment Plans.
Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments.
As a dedicated psychiatrist, my approach centers on providing compassionate, patient-focused care, tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I offer a comprehensive range of services that address the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of well-being. Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with me:
Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation of 60 minutes individualized to your needs.
Accurate Diagnosis and Clarity.
Medication Management that would include monitoring closely for efficacy.
Evidence-Based Psychotherapy.
Holistic, Patient-Centered Care.
Personalized Treatment Plans.
Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.
I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.

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.

Welcome to Afterglow Wellness – Expert Medication Management for Mental Health & ADHD
Whether you're struggling with focus and organization due to ADHD, dealing with the overwhelming effects of anxiety or depression, or needing support in managing mood disorders, we are here to help. Our goal is to provide thorough evaluations and ongoing medication management to ensure the right treatment approach for your unique needs.
Welcome to Afterglow Wellness – Expert Medication Management for Mental Health & ADHD
Whether you're struggling with focus and organization due to ADHD, dealing with the overwhelming effects of anxiety or depression, or needing support in managing mood disorders, we are here to help. Our goal is to provide thorough evaluations and ongoing medication management to ensure the right treatment approach for your unique needs.

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

I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for mental health. Specializing in medication management, I collaborate with patients to create personalized treatment plans that optimize outcomes. I integrate traditional and complementary therapies to address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Passionate about continued learning, I stay current with advancements in mental health and prioritize building strong, trusting relationships to empower patients in their recovery.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for mental health. Specializing in medication management, I collaborate with patients to create personalized treatment plans that optimize outcomes. I integrate traditional and complementary therapies to address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Passionate about continued learning, I stay current with advancements in mental health and prioritize building strong, trusting relationships to empower patients in their recovery.

Amber Phebus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I’m Amber, and I’m excited to get to know you! I became a nurse in 2008, following my service in the U.S. Navy. I transitioned into mental health in 2016 after my own mental health struggles, and became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2022 after earning my master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. The provider-patient relationship is key to success in mental health care, and I believe we should work together to achieve your goals. I take pride in being compassionate and understanding of your unique situation, and I'm committed to developing a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs.
Hello, I’m Amber, and I’m excited to get to know you! I became a nurse in 2008, following my service in the U.S. Navy. I transitioned into mental health in 2016 after my own mental health struggles, and became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2022 after earning my master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. The provider-patient relationship is key to success in mental health care, and I believe we should work together to achieve your goals. I take pride in being compassionate and understanding of your unique situation, and I'm committed to developing a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs.

Jennifer Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Jennifer Wood and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I am very excited to be opening up a private practice in my home town of Lafayette, Indiana. I plan to offer great compassion and communication to my clients while taking pride in being on your team. This will allow us to collaborate together in creating the best treatment plan that works for YOU! . I will be right beside you for utmost encouragement throughout your life journey. My ideal patient is one who is willing to take the first steps into changing, allowing them to start living their best life!
Hello! My name is Jennifer Wood and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I am very excited to be opening up a private practice in my home town of Lafayette, Indiana. I plan to offer great compassion and communication to my clients while taking pride in being on your team. This will allow us to collaborate together in creating the best treatment plan that works for YOU! . I will be right beside you for utmost encouragement throughout your life journey. My ideal patient is one who is willing to take the first steps into changing, allowing them to start living their best life!

At my private practice, I greatly enjoy helping people dealing with mental health issues including depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and some substance use disorders. We will focus as a team on what YOU want to get out of treatment. As a physician, I view my primary role as an educator. We will spend a lot of time sharing information that will guide us in developing your individualized treatment plan. My goals for you are the goals you set for yourself. I provide both medication management and individual psychotherapy, with emphasis on healthy lifestyle activities. I serve young adults to seniors.
At my private practice, I greatly enjoy helping people dealing with mental health issues including depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and some substance use disorders. We will focus as a team on what YOU want to get out of treatment. As a physician, I view my primary role as an educator. We will spend a lot of time sharing information that will guide us in developing your individualized treatment plan. My goals for you are the goals you set for yourself. I provide both medication management and individual psychotherapy, with emphasis on healthy lifestyle activities. I serve young adults to seniors.

Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner.
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner.
See more therapy options for West Lafayette
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in West Lafayette, IN
20+
Average cost per session
$162
Psychiatrists in West Lafayette, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
90% | ADHD |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in West Lafayette, IN see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in West Lafayette?
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.