Psychiatrists in Lafayette, LA

Photo of Courtney Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Courtney Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70501
So glad you are here. My name is Courtney Cox and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHMP). I believe that mental health and wellness is an onward journey - answering everything that has led you to this moment so far. From ages 13 - adulthood, I explore options for freedom from Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Panic disorder, and more. I have a profound connection to individuals with intellectual disabilities and postpartum challenges. My desire is to create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your longevity - creating a harmonious whole for you are your future.
So glad you are here. My name is Courtney Cox and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHMP). I believe that mental health and wellness is an onward journey - answering everything that has led you to this moment so far. From ages 13 - adulthood, I explore options for freedom from Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Panic disorder, and more. I have a profound connection to individuals with intellectual disabilities and postpartum challenges. My desire is to create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your longevity - creating a harmonious whole for you are your future.
(337) 379-7015 View (337) 379-7015
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Lafayette, LA 70501
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.
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Photo of Raquel McCorvey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Raquel McCorvey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lafayette, LA 70503
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or end-of-life issues? You're likely seeking more than quick fixes; you want genuine healing and self-understanding. You need a safe space to explore your experiences and feel heard. You want to build resilience, develop coping skills, and rediscover joy. Ultimately, you desire to live authentically, empowered to navigate challenges. I can offer you that space and support.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or end-of-life issues? You're likely seeking more than quick fixes; you want genuine healing and self-understanding. You need a safe space to explore your experiences and feel heard. You want to build resilience, develop coping skills, and rediscover joy. Ultimately, you desire to live authentically, empowered to navigate challenges. I can offer you that space and support.
(337) 341-8486 View (337) 341-8486
Photo of Bryant Dronette, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MBA
Bryant Dronette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MBA
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70508
I am Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health and Family Practice Nurse Practitioner. I am a graduate of Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN. I have 20+ years of patient care experience and with my extensive training and experience, I can close the gap between medical and psychiatric care, treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My humanistic holistic approach to care for both mind and body, allows me to give individualized, personalized, comprehensive care for my patients.
I am Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health and Family Practice Nurse Practitioner. I am a graduate of Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN. I have 20+ years of patient care experience and with my extensive training and experience, I can close the gap between medical and psychiatric care, treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My humanistic holistic approach to care for both mind and body, allows me to give individualized, personalized, comprehensive care for my patients.
(337) 340-9701 View (337) 340-9701
Photo of Ashley Albarado, Psychiatrist, MD
Ashley Albarado
Psychiatrist, MD
Lafayette, LA 70508
I am board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and General (Adult) Psychiatry. I am a medical doctor (MD) and my specialty is medication management of psychiatric disorders. I work closely with counselors, therapists, psychologists and other mental health providers.
I am board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and General (Adult) Psychiatry. I am a medical doctor (MD) and my specialty is medication management of psychiatric disorders. I work closely with counselors, therapists, psychologists and other mental health providers.
(337) 294-0175 View (337) 294-0175
Photo of Morgan Plaisance, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Morgan Plaisance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Lafayette, LA 70508
I am a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 5+ years of experience of providing care to patients. I am dedicated to helping patients achieve their personal goals for treatment. My goal to is to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning and well-being by focusing on managing symptoms associated with mental health through medication management. Providing care in a timely manner is a priority and new patients can be seen in 1 to 2 weeks.
I am a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 5+ years of experience of providing care to patients. I am dedicated to helping patients achieve their personal goals for treatment. My goal to is to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning and well-being by focusing on managing symptoms associated with mental health through medication management. Providing care in a timely manner is a priority and new patients can be seen in 1 to 2 weeks.
(337) 329-8511 View (337) 329-8511
Photo of Paige Skinner deClouet, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Paige Skinner deClouet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lafayette, LA 70508
I am Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a graduate of McNeese State University in Lake Charles, LA. I have 10+ years of direct patient care experience.
I am Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a graduate of McNeese State University in Lake Charles, LA. I have 10+ years of direct patient care experience.
(337) 294-0172 View (337) 294-0172
Photo of Tori Richard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tori Richard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lafayette, LA 70508
Hello and welcome to my profile! My name is Tori Richard and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management and support for a variety of emotional and psychiatric illnesses. I believe that every individual deserves timely access to health care- new patients can typically be seen within 1 to 2 weeks! My goal is to provide high quality mental health care in a stigma free environment, while helping my patients become the best version of themselves and overall improving their quality of life!
Hello and welcome to my profile! My name is Tori Richard and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management and support for a variety of emotional and psychiatric illnesses. I believe that every individual deserves timely access to health care- new patients can typically be seen within 1 to 2 weeks! My goal is to provide high quality mental health care in a stigma free environment, while helping my patients become the best version of themselves and overall improving their quality of life!
(337) 492-0961 View (337) 492-0961
Photo of Dominque Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Dominque Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70501
With over 15+ years of experience in healthcare, I am dual-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have the unique ability to listen empathetically, provide education you can understand, and the willingness to collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan. My work experience includes women's health and outpatient psychiatry.
With over 15+ years of experience in healthcare, I am dual-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have the unique ability to listen empathetically, provide education you can understand, and the willingness to collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan. My work experience includes women's health and outpatient psychiatry.
(337) 508-0782 View (337) 508-0782
Photo of Robert Allen Green, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MBA
Robert Allen Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MBA
Lafayette, LA 70508
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialize in medication management of psychiatric disorders I am highly motivated and passionate about delivering the highest quality of mental health care.. I am currently accepting new adult patients in Lafayette and telehealth throughout Louisiana. I believe in individualized treatment for all patients and will work with you and your other providers to ensure the proper plan is established.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialize in medication management of psychiatric disorders I am highly motivated and passionate about delivering the highest quality of mental health care.. I am currently accepting new adult patients in Lafayette and telehealth throughout Louisiana. I believe in individualized treatment for all patients and will work with you and your other providers to ensure the proper plan is established.
(337) 520-7872 View (337) 520-7872
Photo of Larnaisha Q Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Larnaisha Q Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lafayette, LA 70507
Larnaisha is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about mental health, and understanding. She is a skilled nursing professional with 9 years of experience working in various clinical settings include in-patient and outpatient psychiatric facilities. She is certified to provide quality, compassionate, and efficient comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP-BC is multifaceted including advocating for patients, providing evidence-based education and management, and providing patient-centered psychiatric care.
Larnaisha is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about mental health, and understanding. She is a skilled nursing professional with 9 years of experience working in various clinical settings include in-patient and outpatient psychiatric facilities. She is certified to provide quality, compassionate, and efficient comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP-BC is multifaceted including advocating for patients, providing evidence-based education and management, and providing patient-centered psychiatric care.
(337) 329-8263 View (337) 329-8263
Photo of Deidra Thompson - Brightside Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(337) 607-0683 View (337) 607-0683
Photo of Helen Ajala - Royal Health & Wellness Clinic LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Royal Health & Wellness Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Lafayette, LA 70508
My name is Helen Ajala. I am a doctoral-prepared Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a graduate of the Loyola University of New Orleans and Frontier Nursing University, Versailles Kentucky, I have over 35 years of experience in healthcare. I treat patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My philosophy is an all-inclusive patient-centered approach. Our team of dedicated professionals provides fully integrated primary care and behavioral health services for children and adults.
My name is Helen Ajala. I am a doctoral-prepared Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a graduate of the Loyola University of New Orleans and Frontier Nursing University, Versailles Kentucky, I have over 35 years of experience in healthcare. I treat patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My philosophy is an all-inclusive patient-centered approach. Our team of dedicated professionals provides fully integrated primary care and behavioral health services for children and adults.
(337) 202-2513 View (337) 202-2513
Photo of Sreelatha Pulakhandam, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Sreelatha Pulakhandam
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Lafayette, LA 70506
Twelve-Step programs are sometimes critical of medication-assisted treatment, discouraging members by saying they are not really sober if they are taking prescription drugs for their dependency. Despite the evidence that medication-assisted treatment help patients with chemical dependency, using drugs carries a stigma. Many Professional scoff at medication-assisted treatment, dismissing it as a temporary fix or taking the easy way out. This is so disheartening to those that it has helped stay sober. Rather, the physician will coordinate the use of medication with other facets of care to ensure that it is used effectively.
Twelve-Step programs are sometimes critical of medication-assisted treatment, discouraging members by saying they are not really sober if they are taking prescription drugs for their dependency. Despite the evidence that medication-assisted treatment help patients with chemical dependency, using drugs carries a stigma. Many Professional scoff at medication-assisted treatment, dismissing it as a temporary fix or taking the easy way out. This is so disheartening to those that it has helped stay sober. Rather, the physician will coordinate the use of medication with other facets of care to ensure that it is used effectively.
(225) 238-1378 View (225) 238-1378
Photo of Ashley Hutchins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Ashley Hutchins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70508
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping others achieve mental wellbeing. Born and raised in Lafayette, LA, I feel a deep connection to our community and find joy in providing psychiatric services to those in need. My practice is located at Bloom Mental Wellness in Lafayette, LA where I provide services for children, adolescents, and adults with mental health issues. I aim to provide compassionate care and value integrity, respect, and self-determination to help clients improve their health and reach their goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping others achieve mental wellbeing. Born and raised in Lafayette, LA, I feel a deep connection to our community and find joy in providing psychiatric services to those in need. My practice is located at Bloom Mental Wellness in Lafayette, LA where I provide services for children, adolescents, and adults with mental health issues. I aim to provide compassionate care and value integrity, respect, and self-determination to help clients improve their health and reach their goals.
(337) 454-5945 View (337) 454-5945
Photo of Jessie Iles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Jessie Iles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Lafayette, LA 70501
Navigating our current world and even prior experiences can be incredibly challenging. I endeavor to help clients navigate their challenges and difficulties using compassionate, comprehensive care that is also evidence-based. As a dual certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, the care I offer includes but is not limited to: comprehensive mental health evaluation; diagnosis; medication management; follow-up appointments; generalized psychotherapy; and EMDR therapy. I aim to provide therapeutic care that is inclusive and trauma-informed in a safe and welcoming space.
Navigating our current world and even prior experiences can be incredibly challenging. I endeavor to help clients navigate their challenges and difficulties using compassionate, comprehensive care that is also evidence-based. As a dual certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, the care I offer includes but is not limited to: comprehensive mental health evaluation; diagnosis; medication management; follow-up appointments; generalized psychotherapy; and EMDR therapy. I aim to provide therapeutic care that is inclusive and trauma-informed in a safe and welcoming space.
(337) 448-4272 View (337) 448-4272
Photo of Morgan Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Morgan Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70501
Morgan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner whose experience in emergency medicine, psychiatric inpatient care, ADHD management, functional medicine research, and trauma work laid the groundwork for her approach to mental health.
Morgan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner whose experience in emergency medicine, psychiatric inpatient care, ADHD management, functional medicine research, and trauma work laid the groundwork for her approach to mental health.
(337) 674-3678 View (337) 674-3678
Photo of Monique Cohen - KDH Counseling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
KDH Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Lafayette, LA 70508
Are you ready to be a part of your mental health journey? Do you want to understand yourself more deeply and take an active role in your mental health process. If you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, panic attacks, phobias, life transitions, substance use, bipolar disorder, sleep issues, Autism, schizophrenia, grief, postpartum, menopause, or need support with ADHD evaluations or and other mental health assessments, I’m here for that. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and focused on clarity. Together, we’ll work toward greater focus, ease, and emotional steadiness in your daily life.
Are you ready to be a part of your mental health journey? Do you want to understand yourself more deeply and take an active role in your mental health process. If you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, panic attacks, phobias, life transitions, substance use, bipolar disorder, sleep issues, Autism, schizophrenia, grief, postpartum, menopause, or need support with ADHD evaluations or and other mental health assessments, I’m here for that. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and focused on clarity. Together, we’ll work toward greater focus, ease, and emotional steadiness in your daily life.
(337) 607-6155 View (337) 607-6155
Photo of Laura Kight, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MBA
Laura Kight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MBA
28 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70506
 Have you lost hope for improving your ongoing depression symptoms? We offer renewed hope for treatment-resistant depression with a new option. Spravato, (esketamine). Treatment with esketamine, Spravato, often results in effective and faster improvement of depression. We are a REMS certified Spravato Treatment Center.
 Have you lost hope for improving your ongoing depression symptoms? We offer renewed hope for treatment-resistant depression with a new option. Spravato, (esketamine). Treatment with esketamine, Spravato, often results in effective and faster improvement of depression. We are a REMS certified Spravato Treatment Center.
(337) 455-7847 View (337) 455-7847
Photo of Jadebrey Kennon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jadebrey Kennon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Jadebrey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in managing depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD, and sleep/insomnia. With over 20 years of experience in the nursing field, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults of all ages. My philosophy is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I believe medication can be a helpful tool, used alongside therapy, to treat the whole person. I encourage my patients to take an active role in their care.
I am Jadebrey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in managing depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD, and sleep/insomnia. With over 20 years of experience in the nursing field, I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults of all ages. My philosophy is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I believe medication can be a helpful tool, used alongside therapy, to treat the whole person. I encourage my patients to take an active role in their care.
(318) 252-1943 View (318) 252-1943

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Nearby Searches for Lafayette

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lafayette, LA

30+

Average cost per session

$125

Psychiatrists in Lafayette, LA who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
83% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management
66% ADHD
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
54% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Cigna and Evernorth
77% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Lafayette, LA see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lafayette?

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.