Psychiatrists in Bowling Green, KY

Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Bowling Green, KY 42101
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
Dr. Shah is more than your typical psychiatrist. She embraces a harmonious blend of innovative practices alongside traditional clinical approaches, attuned to your individual needs. To provide bespoke treatment, Dr. Shah is trained in a diversity of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused therapy as well as motivational interviewing. With Board certification in psychiatry, Dr. Shah stands as your expert ally, ready to unlock mental and emotional health through a truly whole-person approach.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Cheryl Gore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Bowling Green, KY 42104
Shortly after becoming a nurse in the early 90s, I began working with clients in need of Mental Health Services. Over the years I have held various positions; Staff Nurse to Administrative roles. I have found that I prefer patient care. I have a passion for helping those struggling with mental health issues. I have been a psychiatric nurse for over 25 years; have been practicing as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2014. During that time I have worked in a variety of settings: inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, telepsychiatry and currently in private practice.
Shortly after becoming a nurse in the early 90s, I began working with clients in need of Mental Health Services. Over the years I have held various positions; Staff Nurse to Administrative roles. I have found that I prefer patient care. I have a passion for helping those struggling with mental health issues. I have been a psychiatric nurse for over 25 years; have been practicing as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2014. During that time I have worked in a variety of settings: inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, telepsychiatry and currently in private practice.
(270) 615-1661 View (270) 615-1661
Photo of Huma Qadir - Kentucky Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Kentucky Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
At Kentucky Psychiatry we believe YOU ARE IMPORTANT. We are a dynamic office of 5 providers, including Psychiatrist, Psychiatric NPs & Therapists. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important. If you are in need of therapy, someone to talk to, someone who can help lead you through the dark times, we can help. If medication is needed, our talented staff of psychiatrist and psychiatric nurse practitioners can help you find your balance. You are important. You deserve to feel good.
At Kentucky Psychiatry we believe YOU ARE IMPORTANT. We are a dynamic office of 5 providers, including Psychiatrist, Psychiatric NPs & Therapists. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important. If you are in need of therapy, someone to talk to, someone who can help lead you through the dark times, we can help. If medication is needed, our talented staff of psychiatrist and psychiatric nurse practitioners can help you find your balance. You are important. You deserve to feel good.
(270) 290-1041 View (270) 290-1041
Photo of Margaret Ribby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Margaret Ribby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
Life presents numerous moments of stressful challenges. Both adults and adolescents may find these challenges impact their ability to maintain their lives or fulfill their responsibilities. Reaching a state of wellbeing can be difficult but is possible.
Life presents numerous moments of stressful challenges. Both adults and adolescents may find these challenges impact their ability to maintain their lives or fulfill their responsibilities. Reaching a state of wellbeing can be difficult but is possible.
(270) 569-4834 View (270) 569-4834
Photo of Daltrey Tyree, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Daltrey Tyree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101
The goal of psychiatry is living a life of fulllness, purpose and joy.
The goal of psychiatry is living a life of fulllness, purpose and joy.
(270) 721-5866 View (270) 721-5866
Photo of Kathryn Nesbitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Kathryn Nesbitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I love working with clients of all backgrounds, needs, and goals. I meet clients where they are and involve them in every step of the process including decision making, health education, altenative treatments, and how to advocate for their healthcare needs.
I love working with clients of all backgrounds, needs, and goals. I meet clients where they are and involve them in every step of the process including decision making, health education, altenative treatments, and how to advocate for their healthcare needs.
(270) 289-7100 View (270) 289-7100
Photo of Kimberly Zimmerman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NP-C, PMHNPBC
Kimberly Zimmerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NP-C, PMHNPBC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be difficult, challenging, hard to navigate for various reasons when we go through certain situations such as traumatic or life altering events. Lives are forever changed by the events but there is still hope and healing is a process that is attainable. If you are struggling mentally and emotionally and feel like all hope is gone there is always hope and resources available to help strengthen your spiritual, mental, emotional and physical self. You do not have to navigate these options alone. We can help you find life changing solutions with a compassionate, detailed, empathetic approach for you or a family member.
Life can be difficult, challenging, hard to navigate for various reasons when we go through certain situations such as traumatic or life altering events. Lives are forever changed by the events but there is still hope and healing is a process that is attainable. If you are struggling mentally and emotionally and feel like all hope is gone there is always hope and resources available to help strengthen your spiritual, mental, emotional and physical self. You do not have to navigate these options alone. We can help you find life changing solutions with a compassionate, detailed, empathetic approach for you or a family member.
(270) 212-4637 View (270) 212-4637
Photo of Joellen Marion, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LPCC-S
Joellen Marion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LPCC-S
Bowling Green, KY 42104
I have worked in a variety of settings with a variety of age ranges. I have experience working in mental health and substance use through the lifespan. I am trained in Reproductive Psychiatry to help support women through their perinatal, postpartum and perimenopause journey. I am an LPCC-S as well as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and am able to provide supervision to LPCA's in need.
I have worked in a variety of settings with a variety of age ranges. I have experience working in mental health and substance use through the lifespan. I am trained in Reproductive Psychiatry to help support women through their perinatal, postpartum and perimenopause journey. I am an LPCC-S as well as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and am able to provide supervision to LPCA's in need.
(270) 214-2430 View (270) 214-2430
Photo of Angel S Squire, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Angel S Squire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Bowling Green, KY 42101
I am truly passionate about helping individuals as they walk through their mental health challenges to improve their quality of life and relationships. I strive to really understand your situation, your symptoms, and struggles from the depths of your perspective. I understand that physical and mental health are interwoven. Whenever possible, I would like us to discuss non-pharmacological treatments and really focus in on the root cause and use medications as merely a helping hand to holistically guide our joint effort approach toward wellness. No psychiatric conditions are off limits and I can see all ages.
I am truly passionate about helping individuals as they walk through their mental health challenges to improve their quality of life and relationships. I strive to really understand your situation, your symptoms, and struggles from the depths of your perspective. I understand that physical and mental health are interwoven. Whenever possible, I would like us to discuss non-pharmacological treatments and really focus in on the root cause and use medications as merely a helping hand to holistically guide our joint effort approach toward wellness. No psychiatric conditions are off limits and I can see all ages.
(270) 276-1528 View (270) 276-1528
Photo of Summer Sievert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Summer Sievert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42101
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and overcome barriers that prevent you from reaching your fullest. Our providers offer non-judgemental, individualized plans to meet your needs because they know that the whole person matters when treating them. Mental healthcare should never feel like a burden so we conveniently offer appointments via Telehealth in Kentucky and Florida. We also know that sometimes you just need to be face to face with your provide
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and overcome barriers that prevent you from reaching your fullest. Our providers offer non-judgemental, individualized plans to meet your needs because they know that the whole person matters when treating them. Mental healthcare should never feel like a burden so we conveniently offer appointments via Telehealth in Kentucky and Florida. We also know that sometimes you just need to be face to face with your provide
(270) 440-4252 View (270) 440-4252
Photo of Stefanie Shepherd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stefanie Shepherd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2021, and I care for all patients, young and old, who are dealing with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood issues, Sleep issues, and any other Mental Health needs to help them live their happiest and productive lives. Patients come first, and their needs are always the priority for me. I will listen to your needs and work with you to come up with a treatment plan.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2021, and I care for all patients, young and old, who are dealing with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood issues, Sleep issues, and any other Mental Health needs to help them live their happiest and productive lives. Patients come first, and their needs are always the priority for me. I will listen to your needs and work with you to come up with a treatment plan.
(859) 681-8835 View (859) 681-8835
Photo of Leslie Powell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Leslie Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
(859) 765-7260 View (859) 765-7260
Photo of Magdalen Mekoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Magdalen Mekoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Magdalen Mekoh. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Kentucky. I am passionate about helping those suffering with psychiatric/mental health and substance abuse in a non-judgemental way giving them a platform to express themselves without fear of being judged because of their struggles. My approach is holistic and getting to the root of the problem. To do that, I will first assess to identify the problem, then diagnose, prescribe medication if needed and offer psychotherapy as needed.
My name is Magdalen Mekoh. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Kentucky. I am passionate about helping those suffering with psychiatric/mental health and substance abuse in a non-judgemental way giving them a platform to express themselves without fear of being judged because of their struggles. My approach is holistic and getting to the root of the problem. To do that, I will first assess to identify the problem, then diagnose, prescribe medication if needed and offer psychotherapy as needed.
(859) 459-0798 View (859) 459-0798
Photo of Jose Cruz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jose Cruz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Jose Cruz, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental health support is holistic and client-centered. While my primary focus is medication management, therapeutic approaches are woven into sessions with clients, such as supportive therapy, solution-focused therapy, and behavioral activation. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. I see several clients who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I can help you manage a variety of mental health needs, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
My name is Jose Cruz, and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental health support is holistic and client-centered. While my primary focus is medication management, therapeutic approaches are woven into sessions with clients, such as supportive therapy, solution-focused therapy, and behavioral activation. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. I see several clients who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I can help you manage a variety of mental health needs, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(859) 695-6320 View (859) 695-6320
Photo of Kalyan Subedi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kalyan Subedi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Kalyan Subedi, DNP, PMHNP. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. My approach to care is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as CBT and psychopharmacology, tailored to each patient’s needs.
Hello, my name is Dr. Kalyan Subedi, DNP, PMHNP. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. My approach to care is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as CBT and psychopharmacology, tailored to each patient’s needs.
(859) 374-2204 View (859) 374-2204
Photo of Tiffiney Burchett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffiney Burchett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Tiffiney Burchett, a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental healthcare, with a focus on treating mood and anxiety disorders and substance use disorders. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to develop a personalized plan that supports your mental wellness. My approach to care is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to individualized treatment.
Hello, I'm Tiffiney Burchett, a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental healthcare, with a focus on treating mood and anxiety disorders and substance use disorders. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to develop a personalized plan that supports your mental wellness. My approach to care is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to individualized treatment.
(859) 328-6931 View (859) 328-6931
Photo of Nicole Asante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville, Tennessee, and working with clients in Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville, Tennessee, and working with clients in Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(859) 696-7861 View (859) 696-7861
Photo of Tina Shelton-Coomer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tina Shelton-Coomer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
(859) 648-3035 View (859) 648-3035
Photo of Angel Opara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angel Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bowling Green, KY 42101
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
(859) 712-1041 View (859) 712-1041
Photo of Lori Henson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lori Henson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Lori Henson, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been a psych. nurse practitioner for over 10 yrs. and have worked for many different patient populations. I have worked with children's thru adults with all types of mental health disorders. I have also worked in addiction medicine. I have a passion for treating chronic mental illness, mood disorders, and PTSD. I have a patient centered approach to care. I am an active listener and get to know psychosocial situations for each patient that effect each patient to improve outcomes.
My name is Lori Henson, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been a psych. nurse practitioner for over 10 yrs. and have worked for many different patient populations. I have worked with children's thru adults with all types of mental health disorders. I have also worked in addiction medicine. I have a passion for treating chronic mental illness, mood disorders, and PTSD. I have a patient centered approach to care. I am an active listener and get to know psychosocial situations for each patient that effect each patient to improve outcomes.
(859) 295-6862 View (859) 295-6862

See more therapy options for Bowling Green

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bowling Green, KY

20+

Average cost per session

$104

Psychiatrists in Bowling Green, KY who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
79% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
68% Trauma and PTSD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
57% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
91% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Bowling Green, KY see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bowling Green?

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.