Psychiatrists in Mount Washington, KY

Photo of Jeff McCarty - Mind & Soul Care, Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, MA, MM
Mind & Soul Care
Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, MA, MM
Mount Washington, KY 40047
Are you grieving, burned out, anxious, or spiritually exhausted? I help Christians navigate life’s hardest seasons through Christ-centered coaching and soul care. With over 15 years as a behavioral health and hospice nurse and 30+ years in ministry, I offer biblically grounded, clinically informed support that honors both your story and your faith. This isn’t therapy — it’s healing. You don’t have to walk this road alone. Virtual sessions and free consultations available.
Are you grieving, burned out, anxious, or spiritually exhausted? I help Christians navigate life’s hardest seasons through Christ-centered coaching and soul care. With over 15 years as a behavioral health and hospice nurse and 30+ years in ministry, I offer biblically grounded, clinically informed support that honors both your story and your faith. This isn’t therapy — it’s healing. You don’t have to walk this road alone. Virtual sessions and free consultations available.
(502) 218-3672 View (502) 218-3672
Photo of Robert H Stewart - Robert H Stewart (MD), Psychiatrist, MD
Robert H Stewart (MD)
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Our calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of depression, the tension of anxiety, the stress of attention deficit/hyperactivity, the strain of bipolar depression, and the pain of trauma. Our practice motto is: “To heal sometimes, to relieve often, to console always.”
Our calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of depression, the tension of anxiety, the stress of attention deficit/hyperactivity, the strain of bipolar depression, and the pain of trauma. Our practice motto is: “To heal sometimes, to relieve often, to console always.”
(833) 780-1041 View (833) 780-1041

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Anjuli Shah, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Anjuli Shah
Psychiatrist, DO
Louisville, KY 40203
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.
View
Photo of Julie Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Julie Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Louisville, KY 40258
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
(270) 290-0874 View (270) 290-0874
Photo of Erica Cecil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erica Cecil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
(502) 409-6993 View (502) 409-6993
Photo of Dr. Paula Wilt, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Paula Wilt
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Wilt is board certified in adult psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University in New Orleans where she also completed her four-year residency in psychiatry. Dr. Wilt takes a biopsychosocial approach to mental health and has over 13 years of experience with an array of mental health diagnoses including Depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Dr. Wilt enjoys spending time getting to know her patients and working hand in hand with them to accurately diagnose and treat the symptoms they are experiencing.
Dr. Wilt is board certified in adult psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University in New Orleans where she also completed her four-year residency in psychiatry. Dr. Wilt takes a biopsychosocial approach to mental health and has over 13 years of experience with an array of mental health diagnoses including Depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Dr. Wilt enjoys spending time getting to know her patients and working hand in hand with them to accurately diagnose and treat the symptoms they are experiencing.
(502) 385-3773 View (502) 385-3773
Photo of Erin Rush Ortegon, Psychiatrist, MD
Erin Rush Ortegon
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hi, my name is Dr. Erin. I am double board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in seeing children, adolescents, and young adults.
Hi, my name is Dr. Erin. I am double board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in seeing children, adolescents, and young adults.
(502) 427-7039 View (502) 427-7039
Photo of Dr. Angelina Strickland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Dr. Angelina Strickland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
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 Courtney Albers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Courtney Albers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
It can feel like you’re doing everything right—working hard, chasing your dreams, and showing up for the people in your life—but still, something seems to be holding you back. Anxiety, perfectionism, and self-criticism can feel like a heavy weight that keeps you stuck, replaying old experiences or feeling like you’ll never truly be enough. It’s frustrating when you’re giving your all and yet still feel like you’re not living the life you know you’re capable of.
It can feel like you’re doing everything right—working hard, chasing your dreams, and showing up for the people in your life—but still, something seems to be holding you back. Anxiety, perfectionism, and self-criticism can feel like a heavy weight that keeps you stuck, replaying old experiences or feeling like you’ll never truly be enough. It’s frustrating when you’re giving your all and yet still feel like you’re not living the life you know you’re capable of.
(502) 233-1237 View (502) 233-1237
Photo of Dr. Erin Knopf, Psychiatrist, MD, FAAP, DBPN, CEDS
Dr. Erin Knopf
Psychiatrist, MD, FAAP, DBPN, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Erin Knopf is a Board-Certified Pediatrician, Adult Psychiatrist, and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, as well as an iaedp Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. She specializes in treating eating disorder behaviors and comorbid symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and more. She is the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of VERY (Virtual Eating Recovery for You). VERY provides virtual eating disorder care services (psychiatry, therapy, dietary, medical) in 10 states (CO, WA, UT, KY, IN, OH, TN, TX, NJ, NY). We work with your outside providers to ensure cohesive care!
Dr. Erin Knopf is a Board-Certified Pediatrician, Adult Psychiatrist, and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist, as well as an iaedp Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. She specializes in treating eating disorder behaviors and comorbid symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and more. She is the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of VERY (Virtual Eating Recovery for You). VERY provides virtual eating disorder care services (psychiatry, therapy, dietary, medical) in 10 states (CO, WA, UT, KY, IN, OH, TN, TX, NJ, NY). We work with your outside providers to ensure cohesive care!
(720) 790-4316 View (720) 790-4316
Photo of Brittany Nicole Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittany Nicole Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
By using a holistic approach, I assess and treat individuals as a whole. Treating you holistically means I will monitor lab work, blood pressure, heart rate, weight, sleep, diet and exercise habits, collaboration with your other providers, and lifestyle counseling. We will touch on each of these subjects during your visits. My mission is to develop a therapeutic relationship, listen to your concerns, and together customize a treatment plan with medication management and lifestyle counseling. I do offer a free 15 minute consultation to discuss what I do, go over my process and decide if this is a good fit for you!
By using a holistic approach, I assess and treat individuals as a whole. Treating you holistically means I will monitor lab work, blood pressure, heart rate, weight, sleep, diet and exercise habits, collaboration with your other providers, and lifestyle counseling. We will touch on each of these subjects during your visits. My mission is to develop a therapeutic relationship, listen to your concerns, and together customize a treatment plan with medication management and lifestyle counseling. I do offer a free 15 minute consultation to discuss what I do, go over my process and decide if this is a good fit for you!
(502) 237-6992 View (502) 237-6992
Photo of Precious Sarver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC
Precious Sarver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC
Louisville, KY 40202
Mental health plays a significant role in our overall health and wellbeing. It is okay if you need to reach out for help. Please do. I prioritize patient focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs. I strive to build lasting relationships with patients that are built on respect and trust. My view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where we take things at your pace. I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, safe, and heard. My values stand firm on commitment, integrity, respect, and advocacy. My goal is to empower and assist with optimizing your mental health because mental health does matter.
Mental health plays a significant role in our overall health and wellbeing. It is okay if you need to reach out for help. Please do. I prioritize patient focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs. I strive to build lasting relationships with patients that are built on respect and trust. My view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where we take things at your pace. I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, safe, and heard. My values stand firm on commitment, integrity, respect, and advocacy. My goal is to empower and assist with optimizing your mental health because mental health does matter.
(502) 334-0869 View (502) 334-0869
Photo of Mark Bush, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Mark Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
Accepting New Patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of helping people manage their mental health wellness. I believe that mental wellness is a key foundation for overall health. I understand that all my clients are unique and valued individuals who deserve acceptance, appreciation, support, and compassion. My perfect client would be someone struggling with life’s challenges who wants to obtain optimal happiness and wellness. My goal is simple - to assist you to live your very best life. Everyone deserves that!
Accepting New Patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of helping people manage their mental health wellness. I believe that mental wellness is a key foundation for overall health. I understand that all my clients are unique and valued individuals who deserve acceptance, appreciation, support, and compassion. My perfect client would be someone struggling with life’s challenges who wants to obtain optimal happiness and wellness. My goal is simple - to assist you to live your very best life. Everyone deserves that!
(502) 419-4289 View (502) 419-4289
Photo of Aiyesha Stiles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aiyesha Stiles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
(859) 208-2999 View (859) 208-2999
Photo of Melissa Bishop, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Melissa Bishop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Louisville, KY 40241
Melissa Bishop is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University. She also received a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a bachelor's degree in Nursing from Radford University. She is experienced in providing medication management in both child and adolescent populations and adult populations in an outpatient setting.
Melissa Bishop is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University. She also received a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a bachelor's degree in Nursing from Radford University. She is experienced in providing medication management in both child and adolescent populations and adult populations in an outpatient setting.
(502) 806-8468 View (502) 806-8468
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 Kristin Gosden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kristin Gosden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Louisville, KY 40207
I believe access to mental healthcare is a necessity. My goal is to help you optimize your mental health. I am a firm believer in the mind-body connection and that mental and physical health are deeply intertwined. Collectively, we can discover methods that help you to have everyday success instead of merely surviving. Together, we can find the best way for you to navigate through all parts of life.
I believe access to mental healthcare is a necessity. My goal is to help you optimize your mental health. I am a firm believer in the mind-body connection and that mental and physical health are deeply intertwined. Collectively, we can discover methods that help you to have everyday success instead of merely surviving. Together, we can find the best way for you to navigate through all parts of life.
(502) 401-1802 View (502) 401-1802
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 Autumn Shutt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Autumn Shutt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Louisville, KY 40222
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older at Bloom Counseling + Wellness Studio. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older at Bloom Counseling + Wellness Studio. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
(502) 236-5432 View (502) 236-5432
Photo of Dane Mendelsohn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dane Mendelsohn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Louisville, KY 40241
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Crisis Stabilization, Addiction Medicine, Women’s Health, and General Psychiatry. With six years of experience in psychiatry, I am equipped to treat patients of all ages. I offer various psychotherapy services such as lifestyle modification, manifestation, and mindfulness, and view medications as a tool not as a solution. Currently, I serve as a Medical Officer in the United States Air Force and have extensive knowledge in writing Veteran Affairs disability claim evaluations. I received my BSN from UofL and my MSN from WKU.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Crisis Stabilization, Addiction Medicine, Women’s Health, and General Psychiatry. With six years of experience in psychiatry, I am equipped to treat patients of all ages. I offer various psychotherapy services such as lifestyle modification, manifestation, and mindfulness, and view medications as a tool not as a solution. Currently, I serve as a Medical Officer in the United States Air Force and have extensive knowledge in writing Veteran Affairs disability claim evaluations. I received my BSN from UofL and my MSN from WKU.
(502) 503-5549 View (502) 503-5549

See more therapy options for Mount Washington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Mount Washington, KY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Mount Washington, KY who prioritize treating:

100% Grief
100% Spirituality
50% Depression
50% Anxiety
50% ADHD
50% Life Coaching
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

26 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Male

How Psychiatrists in Mount Washington, KY see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Mount Washington?

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.