Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY

Photo of Kristin Law, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristin Law
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
Kristin is a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who believes in treating all people equally, reducing the stigma of mental health, and going above and beyond for her patients. She has been in the nursing field since 2013, though she has been passionate about mental health for as long as she can remember. She has experience with patients from a variety of backgrounds, ages, settings, and diagnoses.
Kristin is a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who believes in treating all people equally, reducing the stigma of mental health, and going above and beyond for her patients. She has been in the nursing field since 2013, though she has been passionate about mental health for as long as she can remember. She has experience with patients from a variety of backgrounds, ages, settings, and diagnoses.
(502) 236-5536 View (502) 236-5536
Photo of Morgan Smither, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Morgan Smither
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
(502) 317-0567 View (502) 317-0567
Photo of Hannah Morrison, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Hannah Morrison is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She completed her BSN at University of Kentucky and her MSN at Frontier Nursing University. She works with children and adults, ages 6-64, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment and medication management of a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), postpartum anxiety/depression, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and bipolar disorder.
Hannah Morrison is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She completed her BSN at University of Kentucky and her MSN at Frontier Nursing University. She works with children and adults, ages 6-64, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment and medication management of a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), postpartum anxiety/depression, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and bipolar disorder.
(502) 427-7382 View (502) 427-7382
Photo of Ora Frankel - The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care, MD, Psychiatrist
The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
The Couch is Louisville's first and only immediate mental healthcare center,founded to help patients who are experiencing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety panic attacks, phobias, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, etc. Our mission is to provide patients with immediate support during a crisis, and to perform a complete psychiatric evaluation. We believe patients should be helped immediately when a mental health crisis arises. In these situations, patients who seek help are often facing two inadequate choices: waiting weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist, or going to the emergency room. We welcome walk-in patients.
The Couch is Louisville's first and only immediate mental healthcare center,founded to help patients who are experiencing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety panic attacks, phobias, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, etc. Our mission is to provide patients with immediate support during a crisis, and to perform a complete psychiatric evaluation. We believe patients should be helped immediately when a mental health crisis arises. In these situations, patients who seek help are often facing two inadequate choices: waiting weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist, or going to the emergency room. We welcome walk-in patients.
(502) 514-0497 View (502) 514-0497
Photo of Katie Norris - Full Circle Psychiatry    Katie Norris, APRN , RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Full Circle Psychiatry Katie Norris, APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40228
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 14 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical cannabis prescriber as well. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning, I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP in Louisville, KY. I have 14 years of psychiatric experience and treat children and adults treating a variety of illnesses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, PTSD, and others. I have prescriptive authority. I am a certified medical cannabis prescriber as well. I have openings as soon as next week! I am self pay meaning, I do not take insurance however I can provide a superbill for out of network benefits with your insurance company! You can pay with your FSA/HSA account and also may have out of network benefits that you may utilize.
(502) 628-4079 View (502) 628-4079
Photo of Teresa Ament, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Teresa Ament
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
(502) 547-7877 View (502) 547-7877
Photo of Mandy Bliss - Bliss Progressive Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bliss Progressive Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
Are you tired of the 15 minute ‘med check’ style of psychiatric practice? Me too. I specialize in treatment of individuals with a history of trauma and/or depression and anxiety that have not responded to traditional treatments. When a client says, “I’ve tried every medicine out there – none of them work,” my response is, “Let’s dig deeper.” I practice from a trauma-informed perspective. I'm endlessly curious and a creative thinker - both of these traits shape how I prescribe medications and which non-medication treatments recommendations I make.
Are you tired of the 15 minute ‘med check’ style of psychiatric practice? Me too. I specialize in treatment of individuals with a history of trauma and/or depression and anxiety that have not responded to traditional treatments. When a client says, “I’ve tried every medicine out there – none of them work,” my response is, “Let’s dig deeper.” I practice from a trauma-informed perspective. I'm endlessly curious and a creative thinker - both of these traits shape how I prescribe medications and which non-medication treatments recommendations I make.
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Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Kentucky state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Kentucky state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(930) 205-4161 View (930) 205-4161
Photo of Summyji Groom, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinic, PLLC is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive mental health care in a safe, secure virtual space. We cater to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or those wishing to enhance their mental well-being. Our strength lies in our holistic approach, integrating various therapeutic methods tailored to each client's unique needs. Our skilled professionals foster a supportive environment, aimed at empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with increased resilience. Your mental health is our priority.
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinic, PLLC is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive mental health care in a safe, secure virtual space. We cater to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or those wishing to enhance their mental well-being. Our strength lies in our holistic approach, integrating various therapeutic methods tailored to each client's unique needs. Our skilled professionals foster a supportive environment, aimed at empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with increased resilience. Your mental health is our priority.
(502) 673-1568 View (502) 673-1568
Photo of Maryl Smith, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maryl Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner at our Aptiva Health Mental Wellness Trauma Center, I am committed to providing expert mental health support via medications to help you navigate your healing and improve your quality of life. With an extensive background in psychiatry and mental health and a deep passion for helping others, I offer medical care tailored to each individual's unique needs, promoting healing and growth in a compassionate and understanding environment.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner at our Aptiva Health Mental Wellness Trauma Center, I am committed to providing expert mental health support via medications to help you navigate your healing and improve your quality of life. With an extensive background in psychiatry and mental health and a deep passion for helping others, I offer medical care tailored to each individual's unique needs, promoting healing and growth in a compassionate and understanding environment.
(502) 837-9016 View (502) 837-9016
Photo of Hillary Smith, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hillary Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a dual-certified family & psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with 14 years of experience. I believe the journey toward mental health should be a collaborative experience between client & provider & my goal as we work together is that this becomes a positive and even enjoyable process toward becoming the best version of yourself.
I am a dual-certified family & psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with 14 years of experience. I believe the journey toward mental health should be a collaborative experience between client & provider & my goal as we work together is that this becomes a positive and even enjoyable process toward becoming the best version of yourself.
(502) 409-6993 View (502) 409-6993
Photo of Cindy Petzke, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cindy Petzke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40204
Hello! I am a caring, knowledgeable healthcare professional with over 28 years of nursing experience. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for over 8 years and am experienced with all mental health populations. I am an Air Force Nurse Corp Veteran. I understand military and civilian problems. I understand trauma, individual, and family issues. I enjoy helping all age groups of people.
Hello! I am a caring, knowledgeable healthcare professional with over 28 years of nursing experience. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for over 8 years and am experienced with all mental health populations. I am an Air Force Nurse Corp Veteran. I understand military and civilian problems. I understand trauma, individual, and family issues. I enjoy helping all age groups of people.
(502) 309-2879 View (502) 309-2879
Photo of Stephen Michael Taylor, MD, PLLC, Psychiatrist
Stephen Michael Taylor
Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40217
My work as a psychiatrist and a psychoanalyst in training inform my approach to psychotherapy. Traditional psychoanalysis is central to my work which is to help patients experience themselves and their world more fully.
My work as a psychiatrist and a psychoanalyst in training inform my approach to psychotherapy. Traditional psychoanalysis is central to my work which is to help patients experience themselves and their world more fully.
(502) 289-6207 View (502) 289-6207
Photo of Dr. Angelina Strickland, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Angelina Strickland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40210
Our practice is dedicated to helping our clients live a healthier life both mentally and physically. I am board certified as both a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, so I look at your body as a whole to see how I can get you feeling better. I want you to feel safe when you come through our doors. It's ok, not to be ok.
Our practice is dedicated to helping our clients live a healthier life both mentally and physically. I am board certified as both a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, so I look at your body as a whole to see how I can get you feeling better. I want you to feel safe when you come through our doors. It's ok, not to be ok.
(502) 237-8489 View (502) 237-8489
Photo of Dane Mendelsohn - LifeStance Health, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40241
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.
(866) 930-3326 View (866) 930-3326
Photo of Mechibelle Lynch - Ohio Valley Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Ohio Valley Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Ohio Valley Psychiatry provides excellent, quality care. Medications in conjunction with other treatment modalities promote self-management strategies and foster development of resilience. We want patients to develop the ability to manage symptoms amidst daily stressors and major life changes. Emphasis is placed on personal growth and sustaining meaningful, interpersonal relationships.
Ohio Valley Psychiatry provides excellent, quality care. Medications in conjunction with other treatment modalities promote self-management strategies and foster development of resilience. We want patients to develop the ability to manage symptoms amidst daily stressors and major life changes. Emphasis is placed on personal growth and sustaining meaningful, interpersonal relationships.
(502) 586-2592 View (502) 586-2592
Photo of Talesha Leachman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Talesha Leachman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Online Only
SAME-DAY and NEXT-DAY appointments are available! I'm currently accepting clients all over Kentuckiana! Hello. I'm TaLesha, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and co-owner of Better You Behavioral Health Services. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care to individuals navigating mental well-being complexities. With a deep understanding of mind-body interconnectedness, I create a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered on their healing journey. My approach is evidence-based and respects each individual's unique experience.
SAME-DAY and NEXT-DAY appointments are available! I'm currently accepting clients all over Kentuckiana! Hello. I'm TaLesha, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and co-owner of Better You Behavioral Health Services. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care to individuals navigating mental well-being complexities. With a deep understanding of mind-body interconnectedness, I create a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered on their healing journey. My approach is evidence-based and respects each individual's unique experience.
(502) 503-5215 View (502) 503-5215
Photo of Kim Vilt, APRN, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kim Vilt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced working with patients in multiple psychiatric settings. I welcome the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey to better mental health. I am experienced in helping adult patients navigate mood anxiety and psychotic disorders. I particularly enjoy providing care to individuals who are experiencing emotional and psychological challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Federal law prohibits the prescribing of ADHD stimulants over telemedicine and I do not prescribe these medications without in person appointments and appropriate testing.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced working with patients in multiple psychiatric settings. I welcome the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey to better mental health. I am experienced in helping adult patients navigate mood anxiety and psychotic disorders. I particularly enjoy providing care to individuals who are experiencing emotional and psychological challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Federal law prohibits the prescribing of ADHD stimulants over telemedicine and I do not prescribe these medications without in person appointments and appropriate testing.
(502) 673-1612 View (502) 673-1612
Photo of Kellye Singletary, MD, Psychiatrist
Kellye Singletary
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202
As a psychiatrist, I believe that everyone should have access to quality mental health care. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and I strive to highlight the importance of psychoeducation, allowing each person to know what their symptoms mean in the context of an accurate diagnosis and utilize a patient-centered approach to care. At UpSing Telepsychiatry, we provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief psychodynamic therapy sessions. We offer in-person visits at our office located in Louisville, Kentucky as well as virtual telepsych visits to residents of Kentucky and Florida.
As a psychiatrist, I believe that everyone should have access to quality mental health care. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and I strive to highlight the importance of psychoeducation, allowing each person to know what their symptoms mean in the context of an accurate diagnosis and utilize a patient-centered approach to care. At UpSing Telepsychiatry, we provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief psychodynamic therapy sessions. We offer in-person visits at our office located in Louisville, Kentucky as well as virtual telepsych visits to residents of Kentucky and Florida.
(502) 306-3187 View (502) 306-3187
Photo of Kimberly Mosley, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Mosley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
Management of mental health issues has three components: you, your therapist, and your PMHNP. There is no one component that is better than the next. Mental health care is an ongoing treatment that relies on positive intentions and manifestations. The combined work of the client (you), therapist, and medication provider (PMHNP), allows the client to reach the goal of being the best version he/she can be.
Management of mental health issues has three components: you, your therapist, and your PMHNP. There is no one component that is better than the next. Mental health care is an ongoing treatment that relies on positive intentions and manifestations. The combined work of the client (you), therapist, and medication provider (PMHNP), allows the client to reach the goal of being the best version he/she can be.
(502) 677-3782 View (502) 677-3782
1

See more therapy options for Louisville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
94% Depression
83% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
77% ADHD
77% Trauma and PTSD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Cigna and Evernorth
77% Aetna
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Louisville?

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.