Psychiatrists in Covington, LA
I am passionate about providing thorough, evidence-based psychiatric care to the community in which I live and work. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management to my patients. For more info about me, please visit www.drsavannahpatel.com
I am passionate about providing thorough, evidence-based psychiatric care to the community in which I live and work. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management to my patients. For more info about me, please visit www.drsavannahpatel.com
Jennifer is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of nursing experience in various settings. She worked in both residential and inpatient psychiatric care facilities serving patients across the lifespan. Clients can expect mental health services that are comprehensive and compassionate with a provider who has a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She provides psychiatric evaluations, establishes treatment goals, diagnosis and treatment education, as well as medication management. Jennifer has a special interest in adolescent psychiatry.
Jennifer is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of nursing experience in various settings. She worked in both residential and inpatient psychiatric care facilities serving patients across the lifespan. Clients can expect mental health services that are comprehensive and compassionate with a provider who has a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She provides psychiatric evaluations, establishes treatment goals, diagnosis and treatment education, as well as medication management. Jennifer has a special interest in adolescent psychiatry.
Janey Gaston served the psychiatric needs of Shreveport since 2017, and is now proud to call Covington home. With experience in both adult and child psychiatry, she has experience in treating a plethora of mental illnesses including: anxiety, ADHD, depression, and mood disorders across the lifespan. Overall, Janey likes to meet the patient where they are and work together towards common goals. Please note that the contact information on this page is linked to my preferred phone number and email, meaning that I will be returning any inquiries from a number and/or email unaffiliated with Psychology Today.
Janey Gaston served the psychiatric needs of Shreveport since 2017, and is now proud to call Covington home. With experience in both adult and child psychiatry, she has experience in treating a plethora of mental illnesses including: anxiety, ADHD, depression, and mood disorders across the lifespan. Overall, Janey likes to meet the patient where they are and work together towards common goals. Please note that the contact information on this page is linked to my preferred phone number and email, meaning that I will be returning any inquiries from a number and/or email unaffiliated with Psychology Today.
Dr. Willa Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, APRN-Bc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Covington, LA 70433 (Online Only)
Willa Thompson is a world travel doctorate prepared, board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over 39 years of health care experience and over 16 years of mental health care experience. Doctor Thompson has worked inpatient , outpatient, residential, court ordered drug re-entry and virtual care. She is a New Orleans native with compassion and a heart to serve. Dr. Thompson is available for speaking engagements and free consultations.
Willa Thompson is a world travel doctorate prepared, board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over 39 years of health care experience and over 16 years of mental health care experience. Doctor Thompson has worked inpatient , outpatient, residential, court ordered drug re-entry and virtual care. She is a New Orleans native with compassion and a heart to serve. Dr. Thompson is available for speaking engagements and free consultations.
Is your child or teenager struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior problems, or mental instability? I will do what it takes to understand your concerns, make the correct diagnosis, and determine the right treatment to help him or her feel and perform better. My goal is to provide a warm, trusting environment where your child and family can actively participate and collaborate in treatment.
Is your child or teenager struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior problems, or mental instability? I will do what it takes to understand your concerns, make the correct diagnosis, and determine the right treatment to help him or her feel and perform better. My goal is to provide a warm, trusting environment where your child and family can actively participate and collaborate in treatment.
As your psychiatrist, my aim is to help you achieve your fullest potential of wellness and health. I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, Holistic & Integrative Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry. My extensive training helps me deeply understand your neurobiology from a reductionist standpoint, your whole environment and ecology and how that affects your well-being, and how medication, nutrition and lifestyle change can help you feel your best. I use science and evidence based therapies to treat your body, mind and spirit.
As your psychiatrist, my aim is to help you achieve your fullest potential of wellness and health. I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, Holistic & Integrative Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry. My extensive training helps me deeply understand your neurobiology from a reductionist standpoint, your whole environment and ecology and how that affects your well-being, and how medication, nutrition and lifestyle change can help you feel your best. I use science and evidence based therapies to treat your body, mind and spirit.
I am board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 to 65. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Capella University. As a registered nurse I have worked in emergency care, cardiac care, and supervision in the Northshore area. I received my Master of Psychiatric Mental Health degree in Nursing from Herzing University and have experience in outpatient and inpatient psychiatry.
I am board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 to 65. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Capella University. As a registered nurse I have worked in emergency care, cardiac care, and supervision in the Northshore area. I received my Master of Psychiatric Mental Health degree in Nursing from Herzing University and have experience in outpatient and inpatient psychiatry.
Alicia Seicshnaydre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Covington, LA 70433
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, medication management and talk therapy for adults ages 18-65 years. I am trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, bipolar disorders and ADD/ADHD.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, medication management and talk therapy for adults ages 18-65 years. I am trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, bipolar disorders and ADD/ADHD.
Introducing Redi-Med Psychiatry: Your Path to a Better Tomorrow! Are you seeking a brighter, more balanced future? Look no further than Redi-Med Psychiatry, your trusted ally in mental health and well-being. At Redi-Med, we specialize in providing compassionate care and effective treatments for a range of conditions, helping you navigate life's challenges with renewed strength and vitality. Specializing in Comprehensive Care Our dedicated team of experienced psychiatrists and mental health professionals is here to address a variety of concerns. Whether it's ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders.
Introducing Redi-Med Psychiatry: Your Path to a Better Tomorrow! Are you seeking a brighter, more balanced future? Look no further than Redi-Med Psychiatry, your trusted ally in mental health and well-being. At Redi-Med, we specialize in providing compassionate care and effective treatments for a range of conditions, helping you navigate life's challenges with renewed strength and vitality. Specializing in Comprehensive Care Our dedicated team of experienced psychiatrists and mental health professionals is here to address a variety of concerns. Whether it's ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders.
Jennifer R Poche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Covington, LA 70433
I am a dual-boarded Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of healthcare experience in various settings including emergency room, intensive care and behavioral health.
I am a dual-boarded Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years of healthcare experience in various settings including emergency room, intensive care and behavioral health.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Jennifer Imbraguglio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Covington, LA 70433
Have you been struggling with attention and behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, mood, or trauma symptoms? I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I provide individualized and holistic care to improve your mental health through lifestyle changes, supportive therapy, and pharmacological approach.
Have you been struggling with attention and behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, mood, or trauma symptoms? I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I provide individualized and holistic care to improve your mental health through lifestyle changes, supportive therapy, and pharmacological approach.
At Trajectory Psychiatry, we offer meaningful psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and young adults in Louisiana. We have expertise in assessing and treating problems with behavior, sleep, anxiety, depression, and mood instability. With offices in uptown New Orleans and Mandeville, LA, we're accepting new patients and scheduling both in-person and telepsychiatry appointments within 1-2 weeks.
At Trajectory Psychiatry, we offer meaningful psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and young adults in Louisiana. We have expertise in assessing and treating problems with behavior, sleep, anxiety, depression, and mood instability. With offices in uptown New Orleans and Mandeville, LA, we're accepting new patients and scheduling both in-person and telepsychiatry appointments within 1-2 weeks.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Kayla Seals
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70471
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management for adolescents and adults with a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, and I strive to build trust and develop authentic relationships with my patients. Most importantly, I am a results-driven clinician. I incorporate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to ensure that you receive the most effective care.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management for adolescents and adults with a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, and I strive to build trust and develop authentic relationships with my patients. Most importantly, I am a results-driven clinician. I incorporate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to ensure that you receive the most effective care.
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mandeville, LA 70470
Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. D. Santone has over 25 years experience in behavioral health and chemical dependency. He works with the adult population 18-70 years old and treats all Mood and Thought Disorders. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. D. Santone has over 25 years experience in behavioral health and chemical dependency. He works with the adult population 18-70 years old and treats all Mood and Thought Disorders. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
Paula Bland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447 (Online Only)
I have been a NP for 13 years. I am certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) & a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have practiced in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care. I excel in providing holistic, patient-centered care, focusing on both medical and mental health needs. I am committed to patient education and lifelong learning to ensure a high-quality, evidence-based care model is utilized with each of my patients.
I have been a NP for 13 years. I am certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) & a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have practiced in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care. I excel in providing holistic, patient-centered care, focusing on both medical and mental health needs. I am committed to patient education and lifelong learning to ensure a high-quality, evidence-based care model is utilized with each of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist located in New Orleans. I provide expert evaluations and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse, gambling & technological addictions.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist located in New Orleans. I provide expert evaluations and treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse, gambling & technological addictions.
I am excited to create a clinical office offering a unique experience for each client. I want to create a partnership with each client were we make solid plans to help each individual meet their goals and improve their lives. Many clients today are looking for a psychiatrist who will listen to them and pay close attention to their issues with care and compassion. The office will use technology to help remove some of the burden off a traditional office but yet have balance of personal touch and care.
I am excited to create a clinical office offering a unique experience for each client. I want to create a partnership with each client were we make solid plans to help each individual meet their goals and improve their lives. Many clients today are looking for a psychiatrist who will listen to them and pay close attention to their issues with care and compassion. The office will use technology to help remove some of the burden off a traditional office but yet have balance of personal touch and care.
Compassionate and Confidential Adult Psychiatric Care. Specializing in Telepsychiatry. Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. Mike has over 25 years experience in behavioral health. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
Compassionate and Confidential Adult Psychiatric Care. Specializing in Telepsychiatry. Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. Mike has over 25 years experience in behavioral health. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
Paragon Healthcare & Wellness Plus, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus focuses on ensuring that your mental health needs are our top priority and treated by using the most up to date and evidence-based practice guidelines. Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus has a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in both Mental Health and Primary Care.
Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus focuses on ensuring that your mental health needs are our top priority and treated by using the most up to date and evidence-based practice guidelines. Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus has a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in both Mental Health and Primary Care.
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Nearby Searches for Covington
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Covington, LA
10+
Psychiatrists in Covington, LA who prioritize treating:
77% | Depression |
77% | Anxiety |
69% | Bipolar Disorder |
62% | ADHD |
62% | Sleep or Insomnia |
62% | Medication Management |
54% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
86% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Covington, LA see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Covington?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.