Psychiatrists in Detroit, MI

Photo of Zeeshan Choudhry, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zeeshan Choudhry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a prescriber the best thing I have to offer is that when you contact me you will here back directly from me. Hello my name is Zeeshan Choudhry and i am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Michigan. I want to help you or your child with mental health issues that are affecting you or their life. I offer prescription medication management as well as medication and therapy together. Your voice will be heard if you contact me it is going to be going directly to my business line you can call or text me any time and i will personally get back to you.
As a prescriber the best thing I have to offer is that when you contact me you will here back directly from me. Hello my name is Zeeshan Choudhry and i am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Michigan. I want to help you or your child with mental health issues that are affecting you or their life. I offer prescription medication management as well as medication and therapy together. Your voice will be heard if you contact me it is going to be going directly to my business line you can call or text me any time and i will personally get back to you.
(734) 766-7206 View (734) 766-7206
Photo of Michael White Jr., PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael White Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48226
In 2023, I successfully completed my Master of Nursing (MSN) degree and obtained board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My approach to patient care is centered around holistic treatment and a collaborative team approach.
In 2023, I successfully completed my Master of Nursing (MSN) degree and obtained board certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). My approach to patient care is centered around holistic treatment and a collaborative team approach.
(313) 889-7158 View (313) 889-7158
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48226
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (248) 422-0035 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (248) 422-0035 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(248) 422-0035 View (248) 422-0035
Photo of Robert John Lagrou, DO, Psychiatrist
Robert John Lagrou
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48226
Why Wait? Dr. Lagrou and his psychiatric team have Immediate Openings for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Don't wait for months at other clinics when we can get you in today. We offer both in person and telehealth option via secure video sessions. We specialize in the management of treatment resistant depression. In addition to traditional modalities, Dr. Lagrou offers TMS and Spravato treatment options.
Why Wait? Dr. Lagrou and his psychiatric team have Immediate Openings for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Don't wait for months at other clinics when we can get you in today. We offer both in person and telehealth option via secure video sessions. We specialize in the management of treatment resistant depression. In addition to traditional modalities, Dr. Lagrou offers TMS and Spravato treatment options.
(313) 217-3365 View (313) 217-3365
Photo of Atul Shah - Detroit Recovery Project, Psychiatrist
Detroit Recovery Project
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48208
Dr. Atul C. Shah, MD is a Practicing and Licensed Physician in the Metro-Detroit area as psychiatrist and general practitioner, serving a diverse range of patients with compassion, respect, and dignity. Dr. Shah has evaluated and treated patients in his practice for over 30 years both in Michigan as well as India.
Dr. Atul C. Shah, MD is a Practicing and Licensed Physician in the Metro-Detroit area as psychiatrist and general practitioner, serving a diverse range of patients with compassion, respect, and dignity. Dr. Shah has evaluated and treated patients in his practice for over 30 years both in Michigan as well as India.
(313) 324-8900 View (313) 324-8900
Photo of Anthony E Opara, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthony E Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48202
Hello and congratulations on the first step of your mental health journey! My name is Anthony Opara, Sr. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with psychiatric clients for sixteen years across my broad nursing career. This experience allows me to help restore the client to their fullest potential by helping to develop a solution that is individualized, thoughtful and non-judgmental. I take the time to help uncover the many factors that contribute to the breakdown of the client’s mental health and together, with the input of the client, develop solutions that are meaningful.
Hello and congratulations on the first step of your mental health journey! My name is Anthony Opara, Sr. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with psychiatric clients for sixteen years across my broad nursing career. This experience allows me to help restore the client to their fullest potential by helping to develop a solution that is individualized, thoughtful and non-judgmental. I take the time to help uncover the many factors that contribute to the breakdown of the client’s mental health and together, with the input of the client, develop solutions that are meaningful.
(313) 209-9917 View (313) 209-9917
Photo of Dr. Marissa DiMambro, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Marissa DiMambro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48226
I completed my Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) and became board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2023. I pride myself on my empathy towards others. In my role as a prescriber, I strive to look at my relationship with clients as a teammate, not an authority figure. I am passionate about comprehensive treatment approach. I completed my doctoral project with young adults in a group therapy setting managing symptoms of depression to help clients holistically. I look forward to gaining therapeutic relationships with clients of all ages to use medication as a tool for their mental health.
I completed my Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) and became board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in 2023. I pride myself on my empathy towards others. In my role as a prescriber, I strive to look at my relationship with clients as a teammate, not an authority figure. I am passionate about comprehensive treatment approach. I completed my doctoral project with young adults in a group therapy setting managing symptoms of depression to help clients holistically. I look forward to gaining therapeutic relationships with clients of all ages to use medication as a tool for their mental health.
(313) 631-8132 View (313) 631-8132
Photo of Ijeoma Okoye, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Okoye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their mental health but is motivated to make a change. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders, often feel misunderstood or unsupported. I provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can express yourself openly, along with guidance and personalized strategies to manage your symptoms. I will help you in seeking clarity, emotional balance, and practical tools to improve your daily lives. My goal is to help you feel empowered and resilient, build healthier relationships, and regain a sense of purpose and control.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their mental health but is motivated to make a change. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders, often feel misunderstood or unsupported. I provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can express yourself openly, along with guidance and personalized strategies to manage your symptoms. I will help you in seeking clarity, emotional balance, and practical tools to improve your daily lives. My goal is to help you feel empowered and resilient, build healthier relationships, and regain a sense of purpose and control.
(313) 293-7447 View (313) 293-7447
Photo of Michael Tansingco, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Tansingco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48226
My patient goals include: Relief from Symptoms; Improved Quality of Life; Understanding and Insight; Empowerment and Control; Support and Validation; Personal Growth and Resilience; and Integration and Normalcy
My patient goals include: Relief from Symptoms; Improved Quality of Life; Understanding and Insight; Empowerment and Control; Support and Validation; Personal Growth and Resilience; and Integration and Normalcy
(313) 474-9139 View (313) 474-9139
Photo of Devan Stevens, PA-C, OTR/L, Physician Assistant
Devan Stevens
Physician Assistant, PA-C, OTR/L
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I am a PA in psychiatry and am accepting new clients remotely. Remote visits are convenient and allow you to take the appointment from home. (visit: resiliencemhw.com) Have you been diagnosed with or suspect that you have anxiety, depression, or insomnia? Do you suspect that you might be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, OCD, or mood swings? Have you felt unheard or misunderstood by doctors and therapists? Or do you want to figure out what's going on with your thoughts and/or behaviors.
Hi, I am a PA in psychiatry and am accepting new clients remotely. Remote visits are convenient and allow you to take the appointment from home. (visit: resiliencemhw.com) Have you been diagnosed with or suspect that you have anxiety, depression, or insomnia? Do you suspect that you might be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, OCD, or mood swings? Have you felt unheard or misunderstood by doctors and therapists? Or do you want to figure out what's going on with your thoughts and/or behaviors.
(313) 631-5894 View (313) 631-5894
Photo of Heather Sutherlin, FNP-BC, Physician Assistant
Heather Sutherlin
Physician Assistant, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
We are now offering Behavioral Health appointments, Therapy, ADHD Assessment and Treatment, as well as Primary Care and much more. We have dual board certified licensed providers ready to assist you with your behavioral health needs. If you're wanting to switch providers or establish online care send us a message for more information. We treat a variety of healthcare needs including medication management, diabetes management, weight management, depression and anxiety. Book today for an assessment. We offer low cash pay prices as well as accept insurance. Download our app today or contact us to confirm we accept your insurance.
(586) 371-6132 View (586) 371-6132
Photo of Markita M Thompson, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP-C, TBHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Markita M Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP-C, TBHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer a full range of mental health care services to adolescent, and adults who seek change and stability. My services include assessment, diagnosis, treatment, medication management, recommendations on diet change, supplements, herbs, and various forms psychotherapy/talk therapy. I practice Integrative Care with a holistic approach blending traditional with alternative therapies. My passion is caring for others and assisting clients in transitioning to wellness. I work with you where you are to help get you through the healing process and on your way to living a happier, fulfilled life. Call today for your FREE phone consult!
I offer a full range of mental health care services to adolescent, and adults who seek change and stability. My services include assessment, diagnosis, treatment, medication management, recommendations on diet change, supplements, herbs, and various forms psychotherapy/talk therapy. I practice Integrative Care with a holistic approach blending traditional with alternative therapies. My passion is caring for others and assisting clients in transitioning to wellness. I work with you where you are to help get you through the healing process and on your way to living a happier, fulfilled life. Call today for your FREE phone consult!
(313) 334-7346 View (313) 334-7346
Photo of Kathleen Kraft, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Kraft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a highly experienced Psychiatric and Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in addressing the mental health needs of diverse populations, including adults and seniors with moderate to severe conditions. My ideal clients are individuals seeking compassionate, evidence-based care for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, dementia, and chronic pain. They need personalized treatment plans, including medication management and psychotherapy, to improve their overall well-being. My goal is to empower clients to achieve lasting mental health and quality of life.
As a highly experienced Psychiatric and Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in addressing the mental health needs of diverse populations, including adults and seniors with moderate to severe conditions. My ideal clients are individuals seeking compassionate, evidence-based care for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, dementia, and chronic pain. They need personalized treatment plans, including medication management and psychotherapy, to improve their overall well-being. My goal is to empower clients to achieve lasting mental health and quality of life.
(248) 422-1389 View (248) 422-1389
Photo of Dr. Natalie Sadik, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Natalie Sadik
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits.
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits.
(313) 800-9848 View (313) 800-9848
Photo of Victoria Lane, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Lane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Victoria Lane, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
My name is Victoria Lane, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
(904) 822-7235 View (904) 822-7235
Photo of Keyana Collins, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keyana Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CCM
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Keyana Collins, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CCM, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
My name is Keyana Collins, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CCM, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
(904) 944-5136 View (904) 944-5136
Photo of Godfrey Abuya, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Godfrey Abuya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48202
My greatest desire is to provide care to any patient who knocks at my door. I am committed to creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel safe and understood. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health goals.
My greatest desire is to provide care to any patient who knocks at my door. I am committed to creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel safe and understood. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health goals.
(616) 727-8612 View (616) 727-8612
Photo of Marie Stevens, DPA, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Marie Stevens
Physician Assistant, DPA, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I am a PA in psychiatry and am accepting new clients remotely. Remote visits are convenient and allow you to take the appointment from your phone or home according to your schedule. Have you been diagnosed with or suspect that you have anxiety, depression, insomnia? Do you desire wellness and peace, but find that there are obstacles that are difficult to navigate. Obstacles such as ADHD, OCD, or mood swings. Have you felt unheard or misunderstood by doctors and therapists? Or do you want to figure out what's going on with your thoughts and/or behaviors? Here is where you'll find support for change!
Hi! I am a PA in psychiatry and am accepting new clients remotely. Remote visits are convenient and allow you to take the appointment from your phone or home according to your schedule. Have you been diagnosed with or suspect that you have anxiety, depression, insomnia? Do you desire wellness and peace, but find that there are obstacles that are difficult to navigate. Obstacles such as ADHD, OCD, or mood swings. Have you felt unheard or misunderstood by doctors and therapists? Or do you want to figure out what's going on with your thoughts and/or behaviors? Here is where you'll find support for change!
(231) 450-5468 View (231) 450-5468
Photo of Robert John Lagrou - Motor City Medical Group, DO, Psychiatrist
Motor City Medical Group
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48226
Motor City Medical Group offer integrative behavioral health services across the State of Michigan. The medical team works in collaboration with H3 Wellness to provide state of the art integrative medication management services that focus on the mind, body, and spirit of H3's clients. We offer immediate access for medication management as well as both TMS and Spravato Treatments.
Motor City Medical Group offer integrative behavioral health services across the State of Michigan. The medical team works in collaboration with H3 Wellness to provide state of the art integrative medication management services that focus on the mind, body, and spirit of H3's clients. We offer immediate access for medication management as well as both TMS and Spravato Treatments.
(313) 488-2651 View (313) 488-2651
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Detroit, MI

60+

Average cost per session

$195

Psychiatrists in Detroit, MI who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
83% Depression
70% Bipolar Disorder
67% Trauma and PTSD
58% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
58% Medication Management
52% ADHD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Detroit, MI see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Detroit?

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.