Psychiatrists in Harvey, LA

Photo of Kimberlin Pittman, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberlin Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Harvey, LA 70058
My name is Kimberlin D. Pittman. I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) driven by a deep-rooted passion for helping people reclaim their mental health. My journey has taken me through diverse healthcare settings, including the Department of Veteran Affairs, Beacon Behavioral Hospital, and Odyssey House of Louisiana. At the Department of Veteran Affairs, I ensure top-quality care in skilled, hospice, acute care, and rehab units. At Beacon Behavioral Hospital, I manage shift operations, delivering safe and effective treatment for patients in mental health crises.
My name is Kimberlin D. Pittman. I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) driven by a deep-rooted passion for helping people reclaim their mental health. My journey has taken me through diverse healthcare settings, including the Department of Veteran Affairs, Beacon Behavioral Hospital, and Odyssey House of Louisiana. At the Department of Veteran Affairs, I ensure top-quality care in skilled, hospice, acute care, and rehab units. At Beacon Behavioral Hospital, I manage shift operations, delivering safe and effective treatment for patients in mental health crises.
(504) 315-1764 View (504) 315-1764

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Michael Santone - Always Hope LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
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.
(504) 513-5713 View (504) 513-5713
Photo of Samantha Junius-Arcemont - MJA Enterprises, LLC, dba MJA Behavioral Health , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MJA Enterprises, LLC, dba MJA Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
The call to work in the medical field was desired years before completing high school. Over the last 30 years, it has been a rewarding challenge that has brought many benefits. This has been an enjoyable journey. Samantha Arcemont, PMHNP
The call to work in the medical field was desired years before completing high school. Over the last 30 years, it has been a rewarding challenge that has brought many benefits. This has been an enjoyable journey. Samantha Arcemont, PMHNP
(985) 336-5321 View (985) 336-5321
Photo of Brittany Mire, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Mire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you tired of feeling like your mental health is a never-ending battle? Do you want to address the root cause of your struggles and become the best version of yourself? Look no further than Bayou Healthcare Services, where we prioritize your overall well-being. Our integrative psychiatry practice goes beyond just prescribing medication. We take a holistic approach to mental health, considering factors such as sleep, diet, nutrition, and lifestyle habits. We believe that by optimizing these areas, we can help you achieve long-lasting mental wellness.
Are you tired of feeling like your mental health is a never-ending battle? Do you want to address the root cause of your struggles and become the best version of yourself? Look no further than Bayou Healthcare Services, where we prioritize your overall well-being. Our integrative psychiatry practice goes beyond just prescribing medication. We take a holistic approach to mental health, considering factors such as sleep, diet, nutrition, and lifestyle habits. We believe that by optimizing these areas, we can help you achieve long-lasting mental wellness.
(985) 239-5960 View (985) 239-5960
Photo of Carol Darr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carol Darr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Carol Darr. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis and medication management. I treat patients with many types of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care using a biopsychosocial model which considers biological, social and psychological factors and their complex interactions in order to understand health, illness and the best way to deliver mental healthcare.
Hello! My name is Carol Darr. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis and medication management. I treat patients with many types of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care using a biopsychosocial model which considers biological, social and psychological factors and their complex interactions in order to understand health, illness and the best way to deliver mental healthcare.
(225) 416-5770 View (225) 416-5770
Photo of Degan J. Dansereau, MD, ABPN, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Degan J. Dansereau
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, FAPA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
I am a board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I have held various leadership and director positions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently maintain a private practice that focuses on providing personal, caring and expert treatment of psychiatric illnesses.
I am a board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I have held various leadership and director positions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently maintain a private practice that focuses on providing personal, caring and expert treatment of psychiatric illnesses.
(504) 273-4113 View (504) 273-4113
Photo of Michael Biunno - Pathways Behavioral Center, LLC , MD, Psychiatrist
Pathways Behavioral Center, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kenner, LA 70065
Pathways Behavioral Center is an out-patient opioid and recovery clinic. Our clinical model used to treat patients with a substance abuse issue is individual therapy and medication management. We also specialize in chronic depression and cognitive/behavioral disorders. We have two psychiatrists on staff to give professional and individualized services to treat your needs.
Pathways Behavioral Center is an out-patient opioid and recovery clinic. Our clinical model used to treat patients with a substance abuse issue is individual therapy and medication management. We also specialize in chronic depression and cognitive/behavioral disorders. We have two psychiatrists on staff to give professional and individualized services to treat your needs.
(504) 608-5910 View (504) 608-5910
Photo of Flem Ballet - Ballet Psychiatric Services LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ballet Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70114
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating clients throughout the life span(children and Adults). I specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including: ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia etc. My goal is to combine compassion and expertise in support of your mental health journey.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating clients throughout the life span(children and Adults). I specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including: ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia etc. My goal is to combine compassion and expertise in support of your mental health journey.
(504) 500-5923 View (504) 500-5923
Photo of Cinnamon Renique Davis - Bloom Behavioral Health LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bloom Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Does your life feel overwhelming? Are you tired of feeling unmotivated, tired and depressed? Are you ready to get help with your worries and lack of concentration? My goal is that you bloom into the healthiest version of yourself and thrive in all aspects of life.
Does your life feel overwhelming? Are you tired of feeling unmotivated, tired and depressed? Are you ready to get help with your worries and lack of concentration? My goal is that you bloom into the healthiest version of yourself and thrive in all aspects of life.
(504) 396-1346 View (504) 396-1346
Photo of Kellie Newman, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kellie Newman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70130
I am a New Orleans native providing mental health care to the greater New Orleans area for ages 18 and older. I am a masters prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and graduated from Nicholls State University. I have 12 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings and am passionate about increasing access to mental health care. I can effectively communicate with patients through empathy and care. This combined with evidence-based guidelines for treating mental health disorders, allows for a patient-centered approach to care.
I am a New Orleans native providing mental health care to the greater New Orleans area for ages 18 and older. I am a masters prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and graduated from Nicholls State University. I have 12 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings and am passionate about increasing access to mental health care. I can effectively communicate with patients through empathy and care. This combined with evidence-based guidelines for treating mental health disorders, allows for a patient-centered approach to care.
(504) 608-6292 View (504) 608-6292
Photo of Jill Mccall, MD, Psychiatrist
Jill Mccall
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
I treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, such as Mood Disorders, including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I like to work at problems from various angles, which often includes working with patients to assess and treat their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social issues.
I treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, such as Mood Disorders, including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I like to work at problems from various angles, which often includes working with patients to assess and treat their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social issues.
(504) 322-3837 View (504) 322-3837
Photo of Erik Hanson, MD, Psychiatrist
Erik Hanson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Louisiana and Mississippi. I realized the struggles that many face when trying to access quality mental health care, so I established my practice to help those navigating their mental health journey get the care they need. I focus on providing a combination of expertise, compassion, and personalized care with the goal to increase the quality of life for those struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and PTSD. ​
I am a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Louisiana and Mississippi. I realized the struggles that many face when trying to access quality mental health care, so I established my practice to help those navigating their mental health journey get the care they need. I focus on providing a combination of expertise, compassion, and personalized care with the goal to increase the quality of life for those struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and PTSD. ​
(504) 708-4238 View (504) 708-4238
Photo of LaTosha Williams - Clear Path To Wellness, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clear Path To Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Clear Path To Wellness, LLC offers telehealth services. I am a board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am trained in all ages and stages of life. While residing in a smaller town currently; I have experienced metropolitan life growing up. My specialties are trauma, ineffective coping, anxiety, complicated grief, and depression.
Clear Path To Wellness, LLC offers telehealth services. I am a board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am trained in all ages and stages of life. While residing in a smaller town currently; I have experienced metropolitan life growing up. My specialties are trauma, ineffective coping, anxiety, complicated grief, and depression.
View
Photo of Kayla Seals, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayla Seals
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
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.
(504) 910-7372 View (504) 910-7372
Photo of Natalie Bliss, MD, Psychiatrist
Natalie Bliss
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
Dr. Bliss enjoys helping individuals and families who are struggling to find balance in their home, work, or school life. While she provides brief therapy during follow up sessions, her primary focus is in diagnosis and medication management. Her treatment plan considers the psychological, physical, and spiritual well-being of her patients. Her ultimate goal for each patient is to give him or her the tools for a purpose-driven life.
Dr. Bliss enjoys helping individuals and families who are struggling to find balance in their home, work, or school life. While she provides brief therapy during follow up sessions, her primary focus is in diagnosis and medication management. Her treatment plan considers the psychological, physical, and spiritual well-being of her patients. Her ultimate goal for each patient is to give him or her the tools for a purpose-driven life.
(504) 547-6985 View (504) 547-6985
Photo of Ashifur Rahman, MD, Psychiatrist
Ashifur Rahman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
Dr. Rahman strives to the understand the uniqueness in each person’s mental health needs. He has comprehensive experience in treating a wide array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and panic disorders. He prioritizes understanding the nuances of each person’s journey by trying to understand all the factors leading to them seeking help. He approaches mental health by utilizing biopsychosocial model to see all the varied life experiences that may lead to someone’s current symptoms.
Dr. Rahman strives to the understand the uniqueness in each person’s mental health needs. He has comprehensive experience in treating a wide array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and panic disorders. He prioritizes understanding the nuances of each person’s journey by trying to understand all the factors leading to them seeking help. He approaches mental health by utilizing biopsychosocial model to see all the varied life experiences that may lead to someone’s current symptoms.
(504) 321-5028 View (504) 321-5028
Photo of Mary Braud Hill, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Braud Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70130
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com to learn more about my services.
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com to learn more about my services.
(504) 233-6855 View (504) 233-6855
Photo of Kayla N. Watson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayla N. Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Slidell, LA 70458
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and it is often neglected. My goal is to help you get back to your level of normal, bringing out the best version of you.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and it is often neglected. My goal is to help you get back to your level of normal, bringing out the best version of you.
(504) 414-7146 View (504) 414-7146
Photo of Eurica Gaston, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eurica Gaston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Eurica Gaston. I have practiced as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for 6 years. My mental healthcare focus ranges from acute onset of illness to chronic mental illness. My approach to mental healthcare is a partnership between the individual, their families, outside resources, and myself. Each client is encouraged and expected to participate in all healthcare decisions. I provide and promote an environment which is open, honest, and free of judgement.
My name is Eurica Gaston. I have practiced as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for 6 years. My mental healthcare focus ranges from acute onset of illness to chronic mental illness. My approach to mental healthcare is a partnership between the individual, their families, outside resources, and myself. Each client is encouraged and expected to participate in all healthcare decisions. I provide and promote an environment which is open, honest, and free of judgement.
(225) 638-2433 View (225) 638-2433
Photo of Arwen Podesta, MD, ABPN, FASAM, ABIHM, Psychiatrist
Arwen Podesta
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, FASAM, ABIHM
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70119
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.
(504) 395-8395 View (504) 395-8395

See more therapy options for Harvey

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Harvey, LA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Harvey, LA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Harvey, LA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Harvey?

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.