Psychiatrists in Bloomfield Hills, MI

Photo of Hassan Almaat - Advanced Psychiatric Services, Psychiatrist, MD
Advanced Psychiatric Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support.
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support.
(947) 207-3592 View (947) 207-3592
Photo of Sneha Bency, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Sneha Bency
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
As a board-certified Physician Associate with a focus in Psychiatry, I am dedicated to providing compassionate care to those navigating their mental health journey. My practice focuses on individuals who have difficulty accessing care, especially those facing cultural barriers, such as marginalized groups, immigrants, minorities, and other underserved communities. I understand the challenges of finding a sense of belonging in a new environment, and I am passionate about creating safe spaces where all patients can feel accepted and understood.
As a board-certified Physician Associate with a focus in Psychiatry, I am dedicated to providing compassionate care to those navigating their mental health journey. My practice focuses on individuals who have difficulty accessing care, especially those facing cultural barriers, such as marginalized groups, immigrants, minorities, and other underserved communities. I understand the challenges of finding a sense of belonging in a new environment, and I am passionate about creating safe spaces where all patients can feel accepted and understood.
(248) 988-9712 View (248) 988-9712
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Giordano, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Jennifer Giordano
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Have you had challenges reducing your psychiatric medication? When you tried to discontinue, did you experience difficult withdrawal symptoms? Reducing or stopping psychiatric medications without the right approach can leave you stuck on a medication merry-go-round for years. I understand the pain and confusion you are experiencing. It doesn’t have to be this way.
Have you had challenges reducing your psychiatric medication? When you tried to discontinue, did you experience difficult withdrawal symptoms? Reducing or stopping psychiatric medications without the right approach can leave you stuck on a medication merry-go-round for years. I understand the pain and confusion you are experiencing. It doesn’t have to be this way.
(810) 295-1170 View (810) 295-1170
Photo of Neil Talon, Psychiatrist, MD
Neil Talon
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Dr. Neil S. Talon, MD Dr. Neil S. Talon is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 1981. He earned his BA at the University of Michigan, went to Columbia University Medical School, and completed his Psychiatric Residency at Cornell. Dr. Talon is experienced in general adult psychiatry and has practiced in office- and hospital-based settings. He has many years of experience treating people with bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders of adults to geriatrics.
Dr. Neil S. Talon, MD Dr. Neil S. Talon is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 1981. He earned his BA at the University of Michigan, went to Columbia University Medical School, and completed his Psychiatric Residency at Cornell. Dr. Talon is experienced in general adult psychiatry and has practiced in office- and hospital-based settings. He has many years of experience treating people with bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders of adults to geriatrics.
(248) 900-1633 View (248) 900-1633
Photo of Paras Patel - Dr. Paras Patel, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Paras Patel, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, and thanks for visiting my profile. You probably hear about anxiety and depression all the time, but what you may not know is that these symptoms can be a sign that you need to look inward to figure something out about yourself. I view medication as an "only when necessary" type of intervention, because although it can be helpful, it doesn't do much to help you know yourself better. My goal in working with you is to use whatever you are struggling with as a means to help you see yourself more accurately, which not only improves your symptoms but also opens up new possibilities in your life.
Hello, and thanks for visiting my profile. You probably hear about anxiety and depression all the time, but what you may not know is that these symptoms can be a sign that you need to look inward to figure something out about yourself. I view medication as an "only when necessary" type of intervention, because although it can be helpful, it doesn't do much to help you know yourself better. My goal in working with you is to use whatever you are struggling with as a means to help you see yourself more accurately, which not only improves your symptoms but also opens up new possibilities in your life.
(248) 927-1526 View (248) 927-1526
Photo of Bridget Mary Hehir, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bridget Mary Hehir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic mental health care to people of all ages. With a focus on understanding the unique needs and challenges of each individual, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my patients. I firmly believe in the mind-body connection. Integrating mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle modifications, I help my clients achieve balance and resilience.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic mental health care to people of all ages. With a focus on understanding the unique needs and challenges of each individual, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my patients. I firmly believe in the mind-body connection. Integrating mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle modifications, I help my clients achieve balance and resilience.
(248) 290-8575 View (248) 290-8575
Photo of Dr. Iyantta S. Howell - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(586) 400-1673 View (586) 400-1673
Photo of Radu Iliescu - Bloomfield Hills Psychiatry PLLC | Radu Iliescu MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatrist who helps children and young adults. I primarily work with individuals who have not had success with other mental health providers. I know how frustrating it is to not feel heard or understood, to be rushed during appointments, and to be prescribed medications that you might not feel comfortable taking or giving to your child. I take my time getting to know each person & family who come into my office and we work together to develop highly personalized treatments that use low doses of medication and foster psychological growth and well-being.
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatrist who helps children and young adults. I primarily work with individuals who have not had success with other mental health providers. I know how frustrating it is to not feel heard or understood, to be rushed during appointments, and to be prescribed medications that you might not feel comfortable taking or giving to your child. I take my time getting to know each person & family who come into my office and we work together to develop highly personalized treatments that use low doses of medication and foster psychological growth and well-being.
(248) 702-4177 View (248) 702-4177
Photo of Raji George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP
Raji George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Dr. Raji George is an advanced practice registered nurse. She has been an instructor at Oakland University school of Nursing since 2019. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP and Family Nurse Practitioner. She began her training at Rajiv Gandhi University, India, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2001.
Dr. Raji George is an advanced practice registered nurse. She has been an instructor at Oakland University school of Nursing since 2019. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP and Family Nurse Practitioner. She began her training at Rajiv Gandhi University, India, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2001.
(248) 773-4598 View (248) 773-4598
Photo of Hassan Almaat - Advanced Psychiatric Services, pllc, Psychiatrist, MD
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support. Recently and in keeping with the advances in Psychiatry, we added TMS clinic and Spravato clinic to help our patient with severe resistant depression.
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support. Recently and in keeping with the advances in Psychiatry, we added TMS clinic and Spravato clinic to help our patient with severe resistant depression.
(810) 370-0145 View (810) 370-0145
Photo of Renee Harris, Psychiatrist, MD
Renee Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
I was born in Michigan and have resided here for most of my life. I attended Wayne State University earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and obtained my medical degree from the Wayne State University School of Medicine. I completed an Adult Psychiatry Residency at Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, OH followed by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship also at the Medical College of Ohio. I especially love working with children, adolescents, and their families. I am also a wife, mother, daughter, and sister.
I was born in Michigan and have resided here for most of my life. I attended Wayne State University earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and obtained my medical degree from the Wayne State University School of Medicine. I completed an Adult Psychiatry Residency at Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, OH followed by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship also at the Medical College of Ohio. I especially love working with children, adolescents, and their families. I am also a wife, mother, daughter, and sister.
(248) 397-6671 View (248) 397-6671
Photo of Lisa Giovannini, Physician Assistant, MS, LLP, PA-C
Lisa Giovannini
Physician Assistant, MS, LLP, PA-C
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 Rachel Mary Eshkanian - Rise Psychiatric Services (Online Mental Health), Physician Assistant, LPC, PA-C
Rise Psychiatric Services (Online Mental Health)
Physician Assistant, LPC, PA-C
Online Only
With over 20 years experience in the field, I have a deep understanding of the needs, struggles and hopes of my patients, as well as that which heals and inspires them. I believe clients benefit most from an engaged partner on their journey, rather than a passive listener. I believe that you are the expert on you, and as a counselor and PA, my goal is to help you find the answers and hope inside of you to heal. I believe that people are individuals and should be treated as such, so I do not employ a cookie cutter approach to treatment. My clients truly value that.
With over 20 years experience in the field, I have a deep understanding of the needs, struggles and hopes of my patients, as well as that which heals and inspires them. I believe clients benefit most from an engaged partner on their journey, rather than a passive listener. I believe that you are the expert on you, and as a counselor and PA, my goal is to help you find the answers and hope inside of you to heal. I believe that people are individuals and should be treated as such, so I do not employ a cookie cutter approach to treatment. My clients truly value that.
(947) 888-7236 View (947) 888-7236
Photo of Iza Michalik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Iza Michalik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
My goal is to offer an integrative, empathetic approach to each individual's mental health journey. I believe in treating the whole person, considering the psychological, social, and biological aspects that contribute to each unique story. My passion lies in helping individuals build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and ultimately reclaim their sense of self and purpose.
My goal is to offer an integrative, empathetic approach to each individual's mental health journey. I believe in treating the whole person, considering the psychological, social, and biological aspects that contribute to each unique story. My passion lies in helping individuals build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and ultimately reclaim their sense of self and purpose.
(947) 221-8683 View (947) 221-8683
Photo of Michael J Miletic - The Miletic Center, Psychiatrist, MD
The Miletic Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304
My patients often come to me after trying other alternatives because they want to understand WHY they don't feel as healthy or vibrant as they once did. Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma or the pressures of transition from career or living situation will effect the body, the brain and the mind. We look at the physical, chemical, hormonal, mental and emotional systems, and work with our patients to build a better way forward. We also specialize in high performance athletes, executives and adolescents. At The Miletic Center, we say "Your best life starts here", and that's what we strive to create.
My patients often come to me after trying other alternatives because they want to understand WHY they don't feel as healthy or vibrant as they once did. Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma or the pressures of transition from career or living situation will effect the body, the brain and the mind. We look at the physical, chemical, hormonal, mental and emotional systems, and work with our patients to build a better way forward. We also specialize in high performance athletes, executives and adolescents. At The Miletic Center, we say "Your best life starts here", and that's what we strive to create.
(947) 207-4892 View (947) 207-4892
Photo of Dr. Sarah DeLeon, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sarah DeLeon
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Dr. Sarah DeLeon is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2019. She earned her MD at Wayne State University Medical School and completed her Adult General Psychiatry Residency at Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center. Dr. DeLeon believes in nurturing both mind and body for true psychiatric healing. Her approach combines evidencebased psychiatry with holistic complementary therapies, offering personalized care in order to help you relieve your symptoms and reclaim your life. Outside of work, Dr. DeLeon enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.
Dr. Sarah DeLeon is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2019. She earned her MD at Wayne State University Medical School and completed her Adult General Psychiatry Residency at Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center. Dr. DeLeon believes in nurturing both mind and body for true psychiatric healing. Her approach combines evidencebased psychiatry with holistic complementary therapies, offering personalized care in order to help you relieve your symptoms and reclaim your life. Outside of work, Dr. DeLeon enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.
(586) 500-5086 View (586) 500-5086
Photo of Malini Shenava, Psychiatrist, MD
Malini Shenava
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Malini works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Malini believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
Malini works with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach. Malini believes that establishing a strong alliance with her clients is essential to getting the most out of therapy and creating lasting change. Through this alliance, she partners with her clients to explore and address thought and behavior patterns that serve as barriers to enjoying life fully.
(734) 205-1713 View (734) 205-1713
Photo of Marisa Karcz Claysen, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Marisa Karcz Claysen
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Marisa Karcz Claysen is a certified physician assistant with an integrative and holistic approach to mental health treatment. She has over ten years of experience working in psychiatry and has earned a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with a Master’s of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2014. She received her Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in Brain, Behavior and Cognitive Science with a minor in Medical Anthropology.
Marisa Karcz Claysen is a certified physician assistant with an integrative and holistic approach to mental health treatment. She has over ten years of experience working in psychiatry and has earned a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with a Master’s of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2014. She received her Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in Brain, Behavior and Cognitive Science with a minor in Medical Anthropology.
(586) 784-6832 View (586) 784-6832
Photo of Dr. Sarah DeLeon, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sarah DeLeon
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Hello and welcome! My name is Dr. Sarah DeLeon. I am a licensed psychiatrist who is board-certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. In practice since 2019, I believe in nurturing both the mind and the body for true psychiatric healing. My approach uses both evidence-based psychiatric principles combined with complementary therapies, offering personalized care for your specific needs. My ideal patient is someone whose goals are emotional stability, self-understanding, and effective coping strategies through an integrative treatment approach.
Hello and welcome! My name is Dr. Sarah DeLeon. I am a licensed psychiatrist who is board-certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. In practice since 2019, I believe in nurturing both the mind and the body for true psychiatric healing. My approach uses both evidence-based psychiatric principles combined with complementary therapies, offering personalized care for your specific needs. My ideal patient is someone whose goals are emotional stability, self-understanding, and effective coping strategies through an integrative treatment approach.
(248) 965-4346 View (248) 965-4346
Photo of Stephanie Lim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP
Stephanie Lim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Stephanie Lim is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. She earned her BSN at UERMMMC in the Philippines, her MSNFNP at South University and her PostMaster certificate for PMHNP at Saginaw Valley State University. Stephanie helps clients reach their maximum potential by gaining a therapeutic relationship with empathetic listening skill. She provides holistic and evidencebased care to every patient she encounters. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys watching movies, doing arts and crafts, and traveling.
Stephanie Lim is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. She earned her BSN at UERMMMC in the Philippines, her MSNFNP at South University and her PostMaster certificate for PMHNP at Saginaw Valley State University. Stephanie helps clients reach their maximum potential by gaining a therapeutic relationship with empathetic listening skill. She provides holistic and evidencebased care to every patient she encounters. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys watching movies, doing arts and crafts, and traveling.
(586) 684-1195 View (586) 684-1195
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bloomfield Hills, MI

40+

Average cost per session

$337

Psychiatrists in Bloomfield Hills, MI who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
91% Depression
71% ADHD
71% Medication Management
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% Bipolar Disorder
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Aetna
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Bloomfield Hills, MI see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

56% Female
44% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bloomfield Hills?

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.