Psychiatrists in Fayette County, KY

Photo of Ryan Bowlds, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ryan Bowlds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lexington, KY 40513
Ryan Bowlds, PMHNP Ryan Bowlds is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor's degree in Nursing and completed a Psychiatric-Nurse Practitioner Master's degree from Western Kentucky University. Ryan offers not only medication management but the ability to provide psychotherapy-based therapeutic interventions. Outside of work, Ryan loves to play music, collect old music records, watch sports, and also play basketball and golf.
Ryan Bowlds, PMHNP Ryan Bowlds is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor's degree in Nursing and completed a Psychiatric-Nurse Practitioner Master's degree from Western Kentucky University. Ryan offers not only medication management but the ability to provide psychotherapy-based therapeutic interventions. Outside of work, Ryan loves to play music, collect old music records, watch sports, and also play basketball and golf.
(859) 712-9926 View (859) 712-9926
Photo of Magdalen K Mekoh - Magdalen Mekoh - Headway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Magdalen Mekoh - Headway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am here to help if you are struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, alcohol and substance use disorder and other psychiatric disorders. If you feel that things are not going well and you want to talk to someone to identify what is wrong, I am here to help. I believe in getting to the root of issues so, I try to provide a platform for patients to express themselves and together we try to touch the root cause of their problems instead of just treating symptoms.
I am here to help if you are struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, alcohol and substance use disorder and other psychiatric disorders. If you feel that things are not going well and you want to talk to someone to identify what is wrong, I am here to help. I believe in getting to the root of issues so, I try to provide a platform for patients to express themselves and together we try to touch the root cause of their problems instead of just treating symptoms.
(859) 376-5295 View (859) 376-5295
Photo of Amy M. Tye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amy M. Tye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lexington, KY 40511
Amy M. Tye is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, obtaining her Master's degree from Eastern Kentucky University. She started her practice in 2023 after 10 years of critical care nursing. It was during these years in the intensive care where her interest in mental health developed. She is a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Amy has experience with all age groups, from children to geriatric populations as well as women's health; promoting wellness as well as offering treatment for various conditions i. e. , anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, substance use and more.
Amy M. Tye is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, obtaining her Master's degree from Eastern Kentucky University. She started her practice in 2023 after 10 years of critical care nursing. It was during these years in the intensive care where her interest in mental health developed. She is a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Amy has experience with all age groups, from children to geriatric populations as well as women's health; promoting wellness as well as offering treatment for various conditions i. e. , anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, substance use and more.
(502) 906-6607 View (502) 906-6607
Photo of Shakaola Pinero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shakaola Pinero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
(859) 535-9123 View (859) 535-9123
Photo of Leigh (Ann) Gebhardt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Leigh (Ann) Gebhardt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lexington, KY 40509
Leigh Ann Gebhardt, PMHNP Leigh Ann Gebhardt is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2018. She has a BSN (Nursing), an MSN (Nursing Education), an MSN (Family Nurse Practitioner), an MSN Certification (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), and Juris Doctorate. Leigh Ann believes in a wholistic approach of healthcare and tries to partner with patients to help provide treatment that supports optimal healthcare outcomes.
Leigh Ann Gebhardt, PMHNP Leigh Ann Gebhardt is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2018. She has a BSN (Nursing), an MSN (Nursing Education), an MSN (Family Nurse Practitioner), an MSN Certification (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), and Juris Doctorate. Leigh Ann believes in a wholistic approach of healthcare and tries to partner with patients to help provide treatment that supports optimal healthcare outcomes.
(859) 681-9231 View (859) 681-9231
Debra A Katz
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, KY 40502
I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I treat patients who seek help for a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, underachievement and feeling overwhelmed or stressed. I treat children, adolescents and adults and have extensive experience treating professionals including physicians, lawyers, executives, teachers and mental health professionals. I have worked in student health in a university setting and am experienced treating students facing academic difficulties. I served as Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Vice Chair for Education and Director of Residency Training in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Kentucky for many years.
I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I treat patients who seek help for a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, underachievement and feeling overwhelmed or stressed. I treat children, adolescents and adults and have extensive experience treating professionals including physicians, lawyers, executives, teachers and mental health professionals. I have worked in student health in a university setting and am experienced treating students facing academic difficulties. I served as Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Vice Chair for Education and Director of Residency Training in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Kentucky for many years.
(859) 537-7152 View (859) 537-7152
Photo of Brian Richardson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Brian Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Lexington, KY 40513
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
(859) 374-7088 View (859) 374-7088
Photo of Catherine Permin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MHNP , APRN, APRN BC
Catherine Permin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MHNP , APRN, APRN BC
Online Only
Dr. Catherine Permin, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, APRN is a nurse practitioner who provides healthcare in the primary care and mental health settings to diverse patients across the lifespan. Dr. Permin was born in a Danish family and spent her childhood in France. Subsequently, she traveled globally working in the horse industry before settling in the central Kentucky area. Dr. Permin is fluent in English, French, and Spanish and this allows her to provide culturally congruent care to patients whose native language may not be English.
Dr. Catherine Permin, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, APRN is a nurse practitioner who provides healthcare in the primary care and mental health settings to diverse patients across the lifespan. Dr. Permin was born in a Danish family and spent her childhood in France. Subsequently, she traveled globally working in the horse industry before settling in the central Kentucky area. Dr. Permin is fluent in English, French, and Spanish and this allows her to provide culturally congruent care to patients whose native language may not be English.
(859) 328-2415 View (859) 328-2415
Photo of Jill Patterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Jill Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 25 years. I have practiced inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I am excited to be offering medication management telehealth. Psychiatry is my passion and I pride myself on my diagnosis and treatment skills, but also the commitment I have to provide my clients with devoted attention to their own specific treatment plan.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 25 years. I have practiced inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I am excited to be offering medication management telehealth. Psychiatry is my passion and I pride myself on my diagnosis and treatment skills, but also the commitment I have to provide my clients with devoted attention to their own specific treatment plan.
(859) 765-7522 View (859) 765-7522
Photo of Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Lexington, KY 40507
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone. Our areas of expertise include: Opioid treatment (Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, Lucemyra, a
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone. Our areas of expertise include: Opioid treatment (Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, Lucemyra, a
(859) 217-4592 View (859) 217-4592
Photo of Allie Carmichael, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Allie Carmichael
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Lexington, KY 40513
Allie Carmichael is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2022. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Kentucky and her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville. Allie has experience working as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric setting on children, adolescent, and adult units. She has experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner working with adults in an inpatient psychiatric unit.
Allie Carmichael is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2022. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Kentucky and her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville. Allie has experience working as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric setting on children, adolescent, and adult units. She has experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner working with adults in an inpatient psychiatric unit.
(859) 517-4382 View (859) 517-4382
Dr. Getulio Tovar
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, KY 40513
In addition to traditional psychiatric interventions, Dr. Tovar offers advanced treatment options such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation TMS , a non-invasive therapy that has proven effective for individuals struggling with depression and other mood disorders. His clinical expertise, combined with cutting-edge technology, provides patients with access to the most effective treatments available today.
In addition to traditional psychiatric interventions, Dr. Tovar offers advanced treatment options such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation TMS , a non-invasive therapy that has proven effective for individuals struggling with depression and other mood disorders. His clinical expertise, combined with cutting-edge technology, provides patients with access to the most effective treatments available today.
(859) 695-2564 View (859) 695-2564
Photo of Christine Tillman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Christine Tillman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Lexington, KY 40503
Christine is a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Kentucky College of Nursing in 2008 and began her nursing career in Neonatal ICU and Labor & Delivery. Over time, she found herself gravitating to patients with complex psychiatric and substance use comorbidity. She found professional satisfaction in helping women feel empowered and dignified in their vulnerable moments. After almost 15 years in nursing, she took the leap to move into psychiatry, working at Eastern State Hospital.
Christine is a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from the University of Kentucky College of Nursing in 2008 and began her nursing career in Neonatal ICU and Labor & Delivery. Over time, she found herself gravitating to patients with complex psychiatric and substance use comorbidity. She found professional satisfaction in helping women feel empowered and dignified in their vulnerable moments. After almost 15 years in nursing, she took the leap to move into psychiatry, working at Eastern State Hospital.
(859) 535-9955 View (859) 535-9955
Photo of Erin Greenlee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Erin Greenlee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
I have experience in assessing and treating complex mental health issues in the inpatient and outpatient settings for people of all ages. I am looking forward to treating individuals in the private practice setting with similar mental health concerns.
I have experience in assessing and treating complex mental health issues in the inpatient and outpatient settings for people of all ages. I am looking forward to treating individuals in the private practice setting with similar mental health concerns.
(859) 659-6024 View (859) 659-6024
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Marrs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Cheryl Lynn Marrs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
We are not born with the skills to handle life or our emotions. If we did not have people surrounding us as we grew who knew these skills and could teach us, then we did whatever we could to get through the emotion or situation we were faced with. This continued and evolved over time-maybe it changed into substance use, maybe into chronic dishonesty, or maybe we just tried to disappear into the background. Eventually these coping skills stopped working and we become desperate for the pain to stop. This is the perfect time a person can completely change their life and become who they were meant to be. THIS is the second chance!
We are not born with the skills to handle life or our emotions. If we did not have people surrounding us as we grew who knew these skills and could teach us, then we did whatever we could to get through the emotion or situation we were faced with. This continued and evolved over time-maybe it changed into substance use, maybe into chronic dishonesty, or maybe we just tried to disappear into the background. Eventually these coping skills stopped working and we become desperate for the pain to stop. This is the perfect time a person can completely change their life and become who they were meant to be. THIS is the second chance!
(859) 429-0718 View (859) 429-0718
Photo of Jennifer Terry - Kentucky Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kentucky Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lexington, KY 40517
Using my 26 years of nursing experience, I will collaborate with you in addressing all your mental health needs. I will create a safe place where you can share your thoughts and feelings. Together we can achieve your goals, and help you live a more productive and fulfilling life.
Using my 26 years of nursing experience, I will collaborate with you in addressing all your mental health needs. I will create a safe place where you can share your thoughts and feelings. Together we can achieve your goals, and help you live a more productive and fulfilling life.
(859) 809-2791 View (859) 809-2791
Photo of Timothy M Houchin, Psychiatrist, MD
Timothy M Houchin
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, KY 40503
My team and I pride ourselves on completing a holistic, 360-degree evaluation and may offer fairly specific recommendations. We are well-versed and experienced at treating a variety of mental health problems but certainly enjoy working with individuals who are highly motivated to improve their quality of life.
My team and I pride ourselves on completing a holistic, 360-degree evaluation and may offer fairly specific recommendations. We are well-versed and experienced at treating a variety of mental health problems but certainly enjoy working with individuals who are highly motivated to improve their quality of life.
(859) 274-0799 View (859) 274-0799
Photo of Elizabeth Umemba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Elizabeth Umemba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Online Only
Elizabeth Umemba, PHMNP-BC, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with several years of experience in psychiatry. I received my Masters from the Walden University and have been practicing for over 4 years. Her practice is family-oriented, offering mental health services through telehealth. Her mission is to help our clients improve health and quality of life by providing outstanding affordable care, including a thorough assessment, treatment, and education.
Elizabeth Umemba, PHMNP-BC, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with several years of experience in psychiatry. I received my Masters from the Walden University and have been practicing for over 4 years. Her practice is family-oriented, offering mental health services through telehealth. Her mission is to help our clients improve health and quality of life by providing outstanding affordable care, including a thorough assessment, treatment, and education.
(859) 376-5760 View (859) 376-5760
Photo of Patricia Broughton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Patricia Broughton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Lexington, KY 40511
With a clinical focus on mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, Patricia guides her patients through managing difficult emotions, life transitions, and stress-related conditions. She takes time to listen, educate, and collaborate, ensuring that every person she treats feels empowered in their care decisions. Her thoughtful approach to medication management, paired with supportive mindfulness techniques, helps patients reclaim a sense of control over their mental health. Patricia is particularly passionate about treating complex mental health concerns such as psychosis, schizophrenia, and sleep disorders.
With a clinical focus on mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, Patricia guides her patients through managing difficult emotions, life transitions, and stress-related conditions. She takes time to listen, educate, and collaborate, ensuring that every person she treats feels empowered in their care decisions. Her thoughtful approach to medication management, paired with supportive mindfulness techniques, helps patients reclaim a sense of control over their mental health. Patricia is particularly passionate about treating complex mental health concerns such as psychosis, schizophrenia, and sleep disorders.
(859) 659-7106 View (859) 659-7106
Photo of Dr. Angela Durham, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Angela Durham
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, KY 40503
My ideal client comes to me with a specific concern that we can work together one on one to find a solution. Whether it be anxiety, panic attacks, depression, ADHD etc, Dr. Durham wants to help you overcome whatever is standing in your way of living your best life.
My ideal client comes to me with a specific concern that we can work together one on one to find a solution. Whether it be anxiety, panic attacks, depression, ADHD etc, Dr. Durham wants to help you overcome whatever is standing in your way of living your best life.
(859) 249-9613 View (859) 249-9613

See more therapy options for Fayette County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Fayette County, KY

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Fayette County, KY who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
88% Depression
81% Bipolar Disorder
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management
68% ADHD
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Fayette County, KY see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Fayette 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.