Psychiatrists in Whitestown, IN
![Photo of Abagael Jenkins, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d22d610f-2c8f-48cc-8254-7321a271b5a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abagael is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her bachelor's degree in Biology from Indiana University, bachelor's of science in nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, and master's degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Her goal is to develop a trusting, therapeutic relationship where client and provider can collaborate on and establish a plan of treatment best suited to the client's needs.
Abagael is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her bachelor's degree in Biology from Indiana University, bachelor's of science in nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, and master's degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Her goal is to develop a trusting, therapeutic relationship where client and provider can collaborate on and establish a plan of treatment best suited to the client's needs.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Brett A Presley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/378ea29e-24f0-4b41-b120-5e9a72cddd33/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jennifer Sloan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a515f3e5-9d84-459a-9044-f1cdac61ab46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sloan sees men and women ages 18-65 for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. She employs evidence-based pharmacology, psychotherapy, walk and talk, and other modalities as needed for each unique situation. She has particular interest in treating depression and anxiety, and strives to help each person achieve better overall health, function, and well-being in their lives.
Dr. Sloan sees men and women ages 18-65 for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. She employs evidence-based pharmacology, psychotherapy, walk and talk, and other modalities as needed for each unique situation. She has particular interest in treating depression and anxiety, and strives to help each person achieve better overall health, function, and well-being in their lives.
![Photo of Sarah Miller, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50f1edec-a7fd-4deb-ab72-27fad737d5af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Miller is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelors in Psychology from Indiana University, a Bachelors of Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Masters in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. Sarah helps clients by providing holistic/well rounded care that focuses on minimizing the need for medications and improving overall satisfaction with life. She provides a comfortable environment that allows for open communication and active listening.
Sarah Miller is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelors in Psychology from Indiana University, a Bachelors of Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Masters in Nursing from Vanderbilt University. Sarah helps clients by providing holistic/well rounded care that focuses on minimizing the need for medications and improving overall satisfaction with life. She provides a comfortable environment that allows for open communication and active listening.
![Photo of Mind Mechanics-Kristin A Manning, MSN/MBA, APRNFNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0e4b83e-872c-40e9-9945-fe3985c940fc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mind Mechanics-Kristin A Manning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MBA, APRNFNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Zionsville, IN 46077
Your mental health is important to your overall health and well-being. If you don't feel well mentally you won't take care of your physical/medical health. If you suffer from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, obsessive compulsive disorders, sleep disorders, PTSD or other mental health concerns you may need to seek a professional practitioner who can perform testing, appropriately diagnose and prescribe medication in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I take the time to listen to and fully understand your individual needs and I am dedicated in partnering with you along your journey to improve your quality of life.
Your mental health is important to your overall health and well-being. If you don't feel well mentally you won't take care of your physical/medical health. If you suffer from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, obsessive compulsive disorders, sleep disorders, PTSD or other mental health concerns you may need to seek a professional practitioner who can perform testing, appropriately diagnose and prescribe medication in order to help you achieve mental wellness. I take the time to listen to and fully understand your individual needs and I am dedicated in partnering with you along your journey to improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Zeba Madni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae91e5ca-4bd9-4557-a5c1-6ec78b1964e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
![Photo of Steven B Wilson - Steven B Wilson, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7562279-ead4-40dc-af9f-6465ba05aa72/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am here to help you to help yourself function as best as you can and to grow into who you want to be. I have provided medication management for individuals age 4-84. I am board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and specialize in conflict resolution between children and parents.
I am here to help you to help yourself function as best as you can and to grow into who you want to be. I have provided medication management for individuals age 4-84. I am board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and specialize in conflict resolution between children and parents.
Zionsville Ketamine - Christopher Dull, MD
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
Zionsville, IN 46077
Our wonderful patients come from all walks of life. They seek evaluation, treatment, and relief from depression or suicidal thoughts that are resistant to antidepressants and/or other medications. We care for patients either as their primary psychiatric provider or upon referral to us from other medical or therapy providers. We treat with Spravato (generic name esketamine) or ketamine. Even if patients decide they do not want ketamine-based treatment, we have other effective ways to help. We are a mental health clinic and that is our passion.
Our wonderful patients come from all walks of life. They seek evaluation, treatment, and relief from depression or suicidal thoughts that are resistant to antidepressants and/or other medications. We care for patients either as their primary psychiatric provider or upon referral to us from other medical or therapy providers. We treat with Spravato (generic name esketamine) or ketamine. Even if patients decide they do not want ketamine-based treatment, we have other effective ways to help. We are a mental health clinic and that is our passion.
![Photo of Tyler Clay Flaningham, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e8e89fc-28fc-41cc-8e16-2cf24f1fb45a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
![Photo of Heather Lett With Innate Way Wellness, MSN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/780a42ea-734b-4a41-9033-c18562008625/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Lett With Innate Way Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Zionsville, IN 46077
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes given the right support, everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles. I love learning about my clients and how best to serve them! I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes given the right support, everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles. I love learning about my clients and how best to serve them! I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
![Photo of Christopher J. Dull, MD, JD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/489a0a51-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kayla Beier, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f3d9dac-2742-472e-b7f3-dc527f99904e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Endurance Mental Health & Wellness is not your typical psychiatry practice. We pride ourselves on spending time with our patients to truly get to know who they are and what makes them behave and feel the way they do. We ask questions many psychiatric providers don't. How do you eat, sleep, stress, work, move, pray? We are skilled at perfecting psychiatric diagnosis and believe medications can be a helpful tool when used in conjunction with good therapy, lifestyle changes, and hard work. We enjoy working with motivated patients who are looking for evidenced-based medical treatment delivered in a direct, practical approach.
Endurance Mental Health & Wellness is not your typical psychiatry practice. We pride ourselves on spending time with our patients to truly get to know who they are and what makes them behave and feel the way they do. We ask questions many psychiatric providers don't. How do you eat, sleep, stress, work, move, pray? We are skilled at perfecting psychiatric diagnosis and believe medications can be a helpful tool when used in conjunction with good therapy, lifestyle changes, and hard work. We enjoy working with motivated patients who are looking for evidenced-based medical treatment delivered in a direct, practical approach.
![Photo of Marjorie Combellick, MSN, AGNPC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95b9ea1c-b2de-47b6-a0a0-03192a232b6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marjorie Combellick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNPC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032 (Online Only)
It can be difficult to find your way amidst uncertainty. It can be easy to become overwhelmed and feel powerless and even hopeless, to lose a sense of purpose and enjoyment. Sometimes you need someone to help you sort these things out and get to the root of a problem so that you can grow beyond it. If I can help you achieve that in any way, then I have succeeded. My primary client focus at this time is young adults in college or trade school, professional women, working moms, and peripartum women.
It can be difficult to find your way amidst uncertainty. It can be easy to become overwhelmed and feel powerless and even hopeless, to lose a sense of purpose and enjoyment. Sometimes you need someone to help you sort these things out and get to the root of a problem so that you can grow beyond it. If I can help you achieve that in any way, then I have succeeded. My primary client focus at this time is young adults in college or trade school, professional women, working moms, and peripartum women.
![Photo of Renee McDougal, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ed0d253-8f81-4803-96b5-8e518285113b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Renee McDougal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Hi there! I'm passionate about offering a personalized and holistic approach to support your mental well-being. At Ivy Health, we believe in nurturing the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Life can be tough, and there are often battles that go unseen. Our mission is to be there for you, providing guidance and treatment to help you find a more centered and balanced self. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or any other challenges, I'm here to work with you.
Hi there! I'm passionate about offering a personalized and holistic approach to support your mental well-being. At Ivy Health, we believe in nurturing the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Life can be tough, and there are often battles that go unseen. Our mission is to be there for you, providing guidance and treatment to help you find a more centered and balanced self. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or any other challenges, I'm here to work with you.
![Photo of Abimbola D Oluwasesin, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b9f3f76-41f8-4881-9adf-23cdf27785bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abimbola D Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan.
Lindsay Manning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Lindsay Manning. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2015 after obtaining my Master's of Nursing from Indiana University. My experience includes medical psychiatry, consultation liaison, acute inpatient, community mental health and corrections. Currently, I provide telehealth services for diagnosis and medication management to adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and other mood disorders. My mission is to work collaboratively with you to help you identify your own treatment goals, feel supported and heard, gain symptom relief, and ultimately enhance your overall functioning.
Hello, my name is Lindsay Manning. I have been practicing as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2015 after obtaining my Master's of Nursing from Indiana University. My experience includes medical psychiatry, consultation liaison, acute inpatient, community mental health and corrections. Currently, I provide telehealth services for diagnosis and medication management to adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and other mood disorders. My mission is to work collaboratively with you to help you identify your own treatment goals, feel supported and heard, gain symptom relief, and ultimately enhance your overall functioning.
![Photo of Abimbola Oluwasesin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96a44748-7f36-446f-8acd-aab9656ecd16/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am based in Indiana, I offer office visits as well as virtual appointments. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am based in Indiana, I offer office visits as well as virtual appointments. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan.
![Photo of Katie Larson (Kleckner), MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33e9e658-ab97-4287-baf5-7ce6e52f2ece/1/320x400.jpeg)
Since 2010, I have practiced medicine as a psychiatric Physician Assistant in IL, CA, and IN, working in outpatient, partial hospitalization, residential, and inpatient settings. Ultimately, my goal is to help end the unfortunate stigma and lack of resources that plague those with mental illness. And mental illness does not discriminate - it can afflict anyone at virtually any point during the lifespan and in any socioeconomic population. But, it is debilitating. It is often hard to identify or understand the symptoms and consequences of mental illness if it’s happening to you…let alone explain it to others. Let me help you!
Since 2010, I have practiced medicine as a psychiatric Physician Assistant in IL, CA, and IN, working in outpatient, partial hospitalization, residential, and inpatient settings. Ultimately, my goal is to help end the unfortunate stigma and lack of resources that plague those with mental illness. And mental illness does not discriminate - it can afflict anyone at virtually any point during the lifespan and in any socioeconomic population. But, it is debilitating. It is often hard to identify or understand the symptoms and consequences of mental illness if it’s happening to you…let alone explain it to others. Let me help you!
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Ronda Owens-Dehmer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f25493a-f8ff-4d5c-8cde-99b4aac281b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ronda Owens-Dehmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.
See more therapy options for Whitestown
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Whitestown, IN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Whitestown, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BHS | Behavioral Health Systems |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Whitestown, 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 Whitestown?
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.