Psychiatrists in Shawnee County, KS

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Photo of Brennan Lehotay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Brennan Lehotay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Topeka, KS 66604
Imagine your ideal self—seeking a partner in your mental health journey who truly listens, understands, and collaborates with you. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or the deep wounds of trauma, and you're looking for a compassionate, individualized approach. Your goal is to find healing and resilience, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and life experiences. I’m here to work closely with you, ensuring that your voice is central in crafting a path to the well-being you deserve. Together, we'll honor your journey and empower you to achieve your goals.
Imagine your ideal self—seeking a partner in your mental health journey who truly listens, understands, and collaborates with you. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or the deep wounds of trauma, and you're looking for a compassionate, individualized approach. Your goal is to find healing and resilience, with a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and life experiences. I’m here to work closely with you, ensuring that your voice is central in crafting a path to the well-being you deserve. Together, we'll honor your journey and empower you to achieve your goals.
(785) 572-5632 View (785) 572-5632
Photo of Kristin Cunningham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Kristin Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
2 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Immediate Appointments Available! I am board certified in psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan. I am especially passionate about caring for children, adolescents, and members of the queer community. I am kink/polyamory/LGBTQ+ affirming and strive to provide care that honors the complexities of my patients' intersecting identities.
Immediate Appointments Available! I am board certified in psychiatric care for patients across the lifespan. I am especially passionate about caring for children, adolescents, and members of the queer community. I am kink/polyamory/LGBTQ+ affirming and strive to provide care that honors the complexities of my patients' intersecting identities.
(785) 465-4446 View (785) 465-4446
Photo of Alicia Sader, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP-C, PMHNP
Alicia Sader
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP-C, PMHNP
Topeka, KS 66611
Are you a stressed mother, wife, or daughter who is putting others’ needs in front of your own? Are you a father, husband, or son who is trying to do the best to provide for his family during this ever-changing season? Do you find yourself struggling to help your child with school related stress? Are you ready to start medications for the first time or just need a tweak of your current medications. Let me help you drop your shoulders and find peace!
Are you a stressed mother, wife, or daughter who is putting others’ needs in front of your own? Are you a father, husband, or son who is trying to do the best to provide for his family during this ever-changing season? Do you find yourself struggling to help your child with school related stress? Are you ready to start medications for the first time or just need a tweak of your current medications. Let me help you drop your shoulders and find peace!
(785) 429-4046 View (785) 429-4046
Photo of Dr. Matthew Stillion - Symphony Mental Health (ADHD) Specialty Care , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Symphony Mental Health (ADHD) Specialty Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Matthew Stillion and welcome to my profile. My practice is devoted to providing the best specialty care available for patients with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). I treat patients across the lifespan from children age 4 through late adulthood suffering from ADHD. With a wide variety of effective, FDA approved medication options available ADHD is very treatable. I also augment medication therapy with easy to follow lifestyle coaching strategies, education and nutritional guidance to optimize mood, focus and mental performance. My approach to ADHD care is holistic, thoughtful and effective.
Hello, my name is Dr. Matthew Stillion and welcome to my profile. My practice is devoted to providing the best specialty care available for patients with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). I treat patients across the lifespan from children age 4 through late adulthood suffering from ADHD. With a wide variety of effective, FDA approved medication options available ADHD is very treatable. I also augment medication therapy with easy to follow lifestyle coaching strategies, education and nutritional guidance to optimize mood, focus and mental performance. My approach to ADHD care is holistic, thoughtful and effective.
(785) 310-3110 View (785) 310-3110
Photo of Douglas Owen Jones, Psychiatrist, MD
Douglas Owen Jones
Psychiatrist, MD
Topeka, KS 66614
I see patients from 3 years to 60 years of age and I believe in treating the whole patient: body, mind and spirit. My approach is a combination of medication management, and individual therapy, frequently augmented with a support group. I support the team approach, working collaboratively with other therapists or health care professionals. Frequently treatment is augmented with 12-Step study. I am readily available to all of my patients by phone and you can expect to speak to me personally on most occasions. If you receive my voicemail, please leave a message and I will return your call promptly.
I see patients from 3 years to 60 years of age and I believe in treating the whole patient: body, mind and spirit. My approach is a combination of medication management, and individual therapy, frequently augmented with a support group. I support the team approach, working collaboratively with other therapists or health care professionals. Frequently treatment is augmented with 12-Step study. I am readily available to all of my patients by phone and you can expect to speak to me personally on most occasions. If you receive my voicemail, please leave a message and I will return your call promptly.
(785) 727-7136 View (785) 727-7136
Photo of Robin Connors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Robin Connors
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Online Only
Are you struggling with stress, fighting depression or paralyzed with anxiety? Do you find yourself on a roller coaster of mood swings, irritability or agitation? Do you long for a good nights sleep but find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep? You are not alone.
Are you struggling with stress, fighting depression or paralyzed with anxiety? Do you find yourself on a roller coaster of mood swings, irritability or agitation? Do you long for a good nights sleep but find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep? You are not alone.
(785) 572-4095 View (785) 572-4095
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Topeka, KS 66612
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Photo of Moses Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis. We offer services specializing in psychiatric medication management, treatment for anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, depression, Medication Assisted Therapy for substance use disorders
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis. We offer services specializing in psychiatric medication management, treatment for anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, depression, Medication Assisted Therapy for substance use disorders
(316) 745-0140 View (316) 745-0140
Photo of Lisa Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Lisa Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Online Only
My ideal client is someone navigating chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, or heart failure, or struggling with addiction or mental health challenges. They may feel overwhelmed by managing their health, unclear about their treatment options, or frustrated by past care experiences. Their goal is to achieve improved health and well-being, feel empowered to make informed decisions, and regain control over their physical and mental health. They want compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their needs because they value understanding and want to feel heard and supported.
My ideal client is someone navigating chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, or heart failure, or struggling with addiction or mental health challenges. They may feel overwhelmed by managing their health, unclear about their treatment options, or frustrated by past care experiences. Their goal is to achieve improved health and well-being, feel empowered to make informed decisions, and regain control over their physical and mental health. They want compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to their needs because they value understanding and want to feel heard and supported.
(501) 459-5821 View (501) 459-5821
Photo of Sarah Jirinzu Carratala - Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, CC
Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, CC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota, Arizona and Washington State. We work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota, Arizona and Washington State. We work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.
(281) 916-4837 View (281) 916-4837
Photo of Darnelle Scott - Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Scott Psychiatric Consultants, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
My name is Darnelle, and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am a provider who listens to and supports every patient. When life brings you troubles, I support you every step of the way. Disclaimer: I do not prescribe controlled substances
(737) 520-7823 View (737) 520-7823
Photo of C. Shaffia Laue, Psychiatrist, MD
C. Shaffia Laue
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I graduated from The Menninger Clinic and pursued studies in environmental medicine, nutrition, biochemistry, auricular medicine, homeopathy and bioenergy healing. My practice incorporates spiritual, energetic meditative therapies and traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy, stress management, dreamwork, imagery, and behavior modification. I provide necessary information to choose a path toward wellness, rather than suppressing symptoms with drugs. Your spiritual beliefs are honored to facilitate your movement towards healing. Each individual is an active co-creator in orchestrating a personal treatment plan and path to wholeness.
I graduated from The Menninger Clinic and pursued studies in environmental medicine, nutrition, biochemistry, auricular medicine, homeopathy and bioenergy healing. My practice incorporates spiritual, energetic meditative therapies and traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy, stress management, dreamwork, imagery, and behavior modification. I provide necessary information to choose a path toward wellness, rather than suppressing symptoms with drugs. Your spiritual beliefs are honored to facilitate your movement towards healing. Each individual is an active co-creator in orchestrating a personal treatment plan and path to wholeness.
(785) 877-0905 View (785) 877-0905
Photo of James Young, Psychiatrist, DO
James Young
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website for patient testimonials.
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website for patient testimonials.
(913) 733-0816 View (913) 733-0816
Photo of Jane Crawford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Jane Crawford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, CARN-AP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I treat a variety of patients but they typically have at least a few things in common- their symptoms are unmanageable and oftentimes they have had difficulties with medications in the past. Every single patient is unique, from their symptoms to medication response. I work hard to meet my patients halfway to help manage their symptoms and reach their highest potential.
I treat a variety of patients but they typically have at least a few things in common- their symptoms are unmanageable and oftentimes they have had difficulties with medications in the past. Every single patient is unique, from their symptoms to medication response. I work hard to meet my patients halfway to help manage their symptoms and reach their highest potential.
(316) 227-1989 View (316) 227-1989
Photo of Meriam Sam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Meriam Sam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
I enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction and all other Mental Health Disorders. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. I am an advocate for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. Im dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. I am passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.
I enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction and all other Mental Health Disorders. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. I am an advocate for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. Im dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. I am passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.
(316) 535-7402 View (316) 535-7402
Photo of Elizabeth Brake, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elizabeth Brake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Accepting NEW patients, we can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse!
Accepting NEW patients, we can get new patients in within a week! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse!
(316) 799-3426 View (316) 799-3426
Photo of Vicki Tsai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MHA
Vicki Tsai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MHA
Serves Area
I start my Psychiatric nursing career since 1996. Throughout the years old practice, I have extended education, knowledge, and experiences in helping children, adult, and geriatric population with mental and behavioral health issues such as: ADHD, Anxiety disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar and related issues, Childhood mental health concerns, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other severe psychiatric disorders. In addition, I am certified by PSI in managing women with mental health issues during childbearing age.
I start my Psychiatric nursing career since 1996. Throughout the years old practice, I have extended education, knowledge, and experiences in helping children, adult, and geriatric population with mental and behavioral health issues such as: ADHD, Anxiety disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar and related issues, Childhood mental health concerns, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other severe psychiatric disorders. In addition, I am certified by PSI in managing women with mental health issues during childbearing age.
(913) 795-5524 View (913) 795-5524
Photo of Loise Wameithi - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(785) 509-2891 View (785) 509-2891
Photo of Sabra L Tieperman - Virtual Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Virtual Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Online Only
My name is Sabra Tieperman. I have more than 20 years of experience as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse treating people of all ages. I established Virtual Psychiatric Services to make treatment accessible to everyone in a way that maximizes privacy, comfort, and convenience. With my online format of care you no longer need to worry about the hassles involved in traveling to an office, embarrassment about being seen in a mental health clinic, or fear being seen in person by a professional. And you don’t have to substitute services by your family doctor when you’d prefer to see a specialist. VPS eliminates all those concerns.
My name is Sabra Tieperman. I have more than 20 years of experience as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse treating people of all ages. I established Virtual Psychiatric Services to make treatment accessible to everyone in a way that maximizes privacy, comfort, and convenience. With my online format of care you no longer need to worry about the hassles involved in traveling to an office, embarrassment about being seen in a mental health clinic, or fear being seen in person by a professional. And you don’t have to substitute services by your family doctor when you’d prefer to see a specialist. VPS eliminates all those concerns.
(620) 524-9649 View (620) 524-9649
Photo of Angela K Dossett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Angela K Dossett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Serves Area
Angela K. Dossett, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping individuals across Kansas navigate their mental health journey with compassion and mindfulness. By creating a judgmentfree environment, Angela allows her clients to explore their thoughts and emotions openly. She specializes in both the treatment and remission of mental illnesses, providing a holistic approach that considers every aspect of a client's life. Angela's ability to think outside the box and evaluate all pieces of the puzzle enables her to craft personalized solutions that empower clients to take control of their mental health and embrace their true selves.
Angela K. Dossett, PMHNP, is dedicated to helping individuals across Kansas navigate their mental health journey with compassion and mindfulness. By creating a judgmentfree environment, Angela allows her clients to explore their thoughts and emotions openly. She specializes in both the treatment and remission of mental illnesses, providing a holistic approach that considers every aspect of a client's life. Angela's ability to think outside the box and evaluate all pieces of the puzzle enables her to craft personalized solutions that empower clients to take control of their mental health and embrace their true selves.
(785) 384-5869 View (785) 384-5869

See more therapy options for Shawnee County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Shawnee County, KS

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Shawnee County, KS who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
83% Depression
75% Medication Management
71% ADHD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Bipolar Disorder
58% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
72% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Shawnee County, KS see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Shawnee 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.