Psychiatrists in Algonac, MI

Photo of Michelle Modlinski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle Modlinski
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Algonac, MI 48001  (Online Only)
Michelle Modlinski is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. She is passionate about providing compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. As a PMHNP, Michelle's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Michelle completed her Master of Nursing at Wayne State University and her post graduate degree studies at the University of Michigan, Flint.
Michelle Modlinski is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. She is passionate about providing compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. As a PMHNP, Michelle's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Michelle completed her Master of Nursing at Wayne State University and her post graduate degree studies at the University of Michigan, Flint.
(248) 985-8933 View (248) 985-8933

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Alicia J. Lane, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia J. Lane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Monroe, MI 48162  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My experience includes treating patients with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I use the most current DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatment to help my patients get back to feeling their best. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and my goal is to remove the stigma of mental illness and teach others to make their mental health a priority.
(989) 404-9651 View (989) 404-9651
Photo of Eucheria Mbata, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eucheria Mbata
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements
(929) 412-1179 View (929) 412-1179
Photo of Amy Fox, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.
I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.
(248) 487-1956 View (248) 487-1956
Photo of Jeremy M. Baruch, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeremy M. Baruch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I am committed to meeting you with an open, curious mind, and compassionate heart as we work together on your challenges and build toward your goals. My passion is to work with people who are going through a life transition, adjusting to school, navigating relationships and careers, and trying to make sense of their lives to build a better future. I offer individual therapy and the option of prescribing medications to individuals who prefer not to split their mental health treatment between a prescriber and a therapist. I deeply value the opportunity to collaborate with you on your journey.
I am committed to meeting you with an open, curious mind, and compassionate heart as we work together on your challenges and build toward your goals. My passion is to work with people who are going through a life transition, adjusting to school, navigating relationships and careers, and trying to make sense of their lives to build a better future. I offer individual therapy and the option of prescribing medications to individuals who prefer not to split their mental health treatment between a prescriber and a therapist. I deeply value the opportunity to collaborate with you on your journey.
(734) 472-2514 View (734) 472-2514
Photo of David Harris, MD, Psychiatrist
David Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence Charter Township, MI 48346
With over 30 years of experience and named Psychiatrist/Physician of the Year for 2023 by NAMI Michigan, Dr. David K. Harris is an exceptional Psychiatrist. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine and has expertise in treating a variety of disorders. For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan’s most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive more than 600,000 points of service from New Oakland every year...from the Detroit area to Ann Arbor, Flint, Grand Rapids,
With over 30 years of experience and named Psychiatrist/Physician of the Year for 2023 by NAMI Michigan, Dr. David K. Harris is an exceptional Psychiatrist. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine and has expertise in treating a variety of disorders. For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan’s most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive more than 600,000 points of service from New Oakland every year...from the Detroit area to Ann Arbor, Flint, Grand Rapids,
(248) 430-6783 View (248) 430-6783
Photo of Ammar Ali - The Place of Hope PLC, MD, Psychiatrist
The Place of Hope PLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dearborn Heights, MI 48127  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Ammar Ali, I am a Medical Doctor and board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience working in hospitals across the United States. I graduated from Kufa University College of Medicine in Iraq in 2003 and finished psychiatry training in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Sanford School of Medicine University of South Dakota in 2014.
Hello, My name is Ammar Ali, I am a Medical Doctor and board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience working in hospitals across the United States. I graduated from Kufa University College of Medicine in Iraq in 2003 and finished psychiatry training in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Sanford School of Medicine University of South Dakota in 2014.
(313) 825-4275 View (313) 825-4275
Photo of Gloria Egeh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gloria Egeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Gloria Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. Gloria's treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them. In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.
Gloria Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. Gloria's treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them. In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.
(810) 442-4172 View (810) 442-4172
Photo of Jemila Ali, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jemila Ali
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Jemila. I am a board-certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner- (across the lifespan: PMHNP-BC). I have over 8 years of experience as psychiatric mental health nurse and about 3 years of psychiatric nurse practitioner. I worked with patients of ages 8 and above with all type of mental health diagnosis. I provide person centered and evidence-based med management by collaborating with my clients. Also, providing supportive/solution focused psychoeducation.
Hi, I am Jemila. I am a board-certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner- (across the lifespan: PMHNP-BC). I have over 8 years of experience as psychiatric mental health nurse and about 3 years of psychiatric nurse practitioner. I worked with patients of ages 8 and above with all type of mental health diagnosis. I provide person centered and evidence-based med management by collaborating with my clients. Also, providing supportive/solution focused psychoeducation.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Lisa Giovannini, MS, LLP, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Lisa Giovannini
Physician Assistant, MS, LLP, PA-C
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
I am an advanced practice provider with over 20 years clinical experience in psychiatry/behavioral medicine practice. A cum laude graduate with Master of Science degrees in both Clinical Psychology and Physician Assistant Studies from University of Detroit-Mercy with dual licensure as Psychologist and National Certification as a Physician Assistant. In addition to outpatient clinical practice, I have served as Behavioral Medicine faculty preceptor in Henry Ford Macomb Family- Medicine residency program since 2016.
I am an advanced practice provider with over 20 years clinical experience in psychiatry/behavioral medicine practice. A cum laude graduate with Master of Science degrees in both Clinical Psychology and Physician Assistant Studies from University of Detroit-Mercy with dual licensure as Psychologist and National Certification as a Physician Assistant. In addition to outpatient clinical practice, I have served as Behavioral Medicine faculty preceptor in Henry Ford Macomb Family- Medicine residency program since 2016.
(248) 780-0450 View (248) 780-0450
Photo of Roy Meland, DO, Psychiatrist
Roy Meland
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
Dr. Roy Meland is a seasoned clinical psychiatrist, serving the Greater Lansing area since 1999. He completed his training at Michigan State University before embarking on a diverse career journey. With experience spanning practice through community mental health, addiction medicine, rehabilitation psychiatry, and private practice, Dr. Meland brings a comprehensive understanding and compassionate approach to his patients' care. His dedication to mental health advocacy and personalized treatment has earned him respect and recognition in his field, having served on local and national boards developing best mental health practices.
Dr. Roy Meland is a seasoned clinical psychiatrist, serving the Greater Lansing area since 1999. He completed his training at Michigan State University before embarking on a diverse career journey. With experience spanning practice through community mental health, addiction medicine, rehabilitation psychiatry, and private practice, Dr. Meland brings a comprehensive understanding and compassionate approach to his patients' care. His dedication to mental health advocacy and personalized treatment has earned him respect and recognition in his field, having served on local and national boards developing best mental health practices.
(517) 777-0292 View (517) 777-0292
Photo of Jane Waligorski, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jane Waligorski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446  (Online Only)
Greetings to you, my Michigan friends! Why wait for an appointment booked weeks or months out when you can get the mental help you need now from the comfort of your home. Immediate openings with evening and weekend options here at Eastwood North Mental Health. Certified as both a Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (with bonus cardiology background for my cardiac patients), I am uniquely qualified to help you reach both heart and mind wellness. So take a deep breath and that first step towards a brighter tomorrow!
Greetings to you, my Michigan friends! Why wait for an appointment booked weeks or months out when you can get the mental help you need now from the comfort of your home. Immediate openings with evening and weekend options here at Eastwood North Mental Health. Certified as both a Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (with bonus cardiology background for my cardiac patients), I am uniquely qualified to help you reach both heart and mind wellness. So take a deep breath and that first step towards a brighter tomorrow!
(810) 213-2033 View (810) 213-2033
Photo of Joseph Cestero, MD, Psychiatrist
Joseph Cestero
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Troy, MI 48084
Coming to see a psychiatrist can be anxiety provoking and exposing. With this in mind, I do my very best to create a low key environment that feels comfortable and welcoming. Appointments shouldn’t feel “stuffy.” Rather, both you and I can work together in a genuine and authentic way to best help you.
Coming to see a psychiatrist can be anxiety provoking and exposing. With this in mind, I do my very best to create a low key environment that feels comfortable and welcoming. Appointments shouldn’t feel “stuffy.” Rather, both you and I can work together in a genuine and authentic way to best help you.
(248) 665-8402 View (248) 665-8402
Photo of Dr. Jacek Debiec, MD, PhD, DPhil, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jacek Debiec
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, DPhil
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
For new patients, I offer appointments within one week. In urgent situations, I may offer a next-day appointment. I have 30 years of experience (the last 12 years as a University of Michigan psychiatry professor) in psychiatric practice in various settings, from emergency rooms and inpatient units to outpatient clinics and community services. I am also a trained psychotherapist. At the heart of my treatment approach is a close alliance and partnership with my patients and their families. I invite you to connect with me if you want to learn more.
For new patients, I offer appointments within one week. In urgent situations, I may offer a next-day appointment. I have 30 years of experience (the last 12 years as a University of Michigan psychiatry professor) in psychiatric practice in various settings, from emergency rooms and inpatient units to outpatient clinics and community services. I am also a trained psychotherapist. At the heart of my treatment approach is a close alliance and partnership with my patients and their families. I invite you to connect with me if you want to learn more.
(734) 349-3127 View (734) 349-3127
Photo of Karla Jordan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karla Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823  (Online Only)
Hi ! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 7 years of clinical experience. I earned a Master’s in Nursing, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification from the University of St. Francis. My career background includes positions at various health centers and behavioral hospitals. I assist individuals with mental health disorders and help them feel their best.
Hi ! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 7 years of clinical experience. I earned a Master’s in Nursing, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification from the University of St. Francis. My career background includes positions at various health centers and behavioral hospitals. I assist individuals with mental health disorders and help them feel their best.
(517) 852-8916 View (517) 852-8916
Photo of Christina Snider, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Snider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430  (Online Only)
I am Christina Snider and I am both a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing for over 24 years.
I am Christina Snider and I am both a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing for over 24 years.
(517) 781-7533 View (517) 781-7533
Photo of Curtis Leipold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Curtis Leipold
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Curtis Leipold is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse over 15 years of experience in healthcare. Curtis obtained his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Purdue University and is a recent graduate from Wayne State University where he obtained his master's degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, bipolar, childhood behavioral issues, and panic disorders. Curtis treats patient between the ages of 10 and 75. Curtis has experience managing psychiatric medications for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Curtis uses a holistic approach to treat clients.
Curtis Leipold is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse over 15 years of experience in healthcare. Curtis obtained his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Purdue University and is a recent graduate from Wayne State University where he obtained his master's degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, bipolar, childhood behavioral issues, and panic disorders. Curtis treats patient between the ages of 10 and 75. Curtis has experience managing psychiatric medications for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Curtis uses a holistic approach to treat clients.
(248) 609-6050 View (248) 609-6050
Photo of Karen Joseph - Infinite Wellness Healthcare, PLLC (Illinois), MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Infinite Wellness Healthcare, PLLC (Illinois)
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Farmington Hills, MI 48334  (Online Only)
This is a medication based, traditional, small psychiatric practice. I see children and adults, NP sees adults and late teens.
This is a medication based, traditional, small psychiatric practice. I see children and adults, NP sees adults and late teens.
(872) 282-5736 View (872) 282-5736
Photo of Joel L Young, MD, Psychiatrist
Joel L Young
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Joel L. Young M.D. is medical director of the Rochester Center for Behavior Medicine (RCBM) and the Cofounder and Chief Medical Officer of MindMetrix. RCBM is staffed by over 80 mental health professionals with years of experience in the treatment of the ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other current mental health disorders. He has given hundreds of lectures locally and throughout the country regarding his areas of specialty. He has published textbook chapters and articles on many of these topics and contributed essays on mental health public policy and other psychiatric issues.
Joel L. Young M.D. is medical director of the Rochester Center for Behavior Medicine (RCBM) and the Cofounder and Chief Medical Officer of MindMetrix. RCBM is staffed by over 80 mental health professionals with years of experience in the treatment of the ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other current mental health disorders. He has given hundreds of lectures locally and throughout the country regarding his areas of specialty. He has published textbook chapters and articles on many of these topics and contributed essays on mental health public policy and other psychiatric issues.
(248) 841-8227 View (248) 841-8227
Photo of Godfrey Abuya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Godfrey Abuya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Godfrey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a thriving private practice in Grand Rapids, MI. With over six years of experience in diverse healthcare settings, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to help you achieve mental wellness. I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to enhance your quality of life and empower you to thrive
Welcome! I’m Godfrey, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a thriving private practice in Grand Rapids, MI. With over six years of experience in diverse healthcare settings, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to help you achieve mental wellness. I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to enhance your quality of life and empower you to thrive
(616) 625-0994 View (616) 625-0994

See more therapy options for Algonac

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Algonac, MI

< 10

Psychiatrists in Algonac, MI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Anger Management
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% ComPsych

How Psychiatrists in Algonac, MI see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Algonac?

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.