Psychiatrists in Farmington, MI

Photo of Kamera Boggon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kamera Boggon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Farmington, MI 48335
Kamera Boggon, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting adults and seniors in Michigan through medication management and mindfulnessbased interventions. She works with individuals aged 18 and older, offering personalized care to help patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve emotional balance. Kameras clinical expertise focuses on addressing anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disordersinsomnia, creating a safe and supportive environment for patients seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.
Kamera Boggon, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting adults and seniors in Michigan through medication management and mindfulnessbased interventions. She works with individuals aged 18 and older, offering personalized care to help patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve emotional balance. Kameras clinical expertise focuses on addressing anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disordersinsomnia, creating a safe and supportive environment for patients seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.
(947) 222-1439 View (947) 222-1439
Photo of Dominic Misiak, DO, Psychiatrist
Dominic Misiak
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Farmington, MI 48335
Dominic Misiak, DO is a psychiatrist located in Novi, Michigan. Dr. Misiak completed his undergraduate at the University of Michigan in 2013 with a degree in neuroscience, completed his doctorate at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2019, and completed his residency at the Trinity Health Livonia Hospital psychiatry residency program in 2023. He advocates for a holistic, non-judgmental approach to treating a wide variety of mental health issues in adults.
Dominic Misiak, DO is a psychiatrist located in Novi, Michigan. Dr. Misiak completed his undergraduate at the University of Michigan in 2013 with a degree in neuroscience, completed his doctorate at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2019, and completed his residency at the Trinity Health Livonia Hospital psychiatry residency program in 2023. He advocates for a holistic, non-judgmental approach to treating a wide variety of mental health issues in adults.
(248) 671-6513 View (248) 671-6513
Photo of Anne Marie Arevalo, MSN, RN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anne Marie Arevalo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Farmington, MI 48335
Anne 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. Anne 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.
Anne 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. Anne 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.
(248) 422-1518 View (248) 422-1518
Photo of Margo Alhstrom, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Margo Alhstrom
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Meet with a Board Certified Physician’s Assistant to see if mental health medication is right for you. Whether you’d like to discuss treatment options, or just need a prescription refill, our prescribers can help. Appointments available every 20 minutes.
Meet with a Board Certified Physician’s Assistant to see if mental health medication is right for you. Whether you’d like to discuss treatment options, or just need a prescription refill, our prescribers can help. Appointments available every 20 minutes.
(810) 957-8347 View (810) 957-8347

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Patrick O'Connell, DO, Psychiatrist
Patrick O'Connell
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48377
Dr. O’Connell specializes in the evaluation and psychopharmaceutical treatment of: mood disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, Alzheimer's and other dementia related cognitive decline, schizophrenia, and other psychotic spectrum disorders.
Dr. O’Connell specializes in the evaluation and psychopharmaceutical treatment of: mood disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, Alzheimer's and other dementia related cognitive decline, schizophrenia, and other psychotic spectrum disorders.
(248) 657-7947 View (248) 657-7947
Photo of Lisa Perna - Revival Recovery Center, MSN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Revival Recovery Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Revival Recovery Center is an outpatient treatment center offering comprehensive medical services to treat substance abuse, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD either in-person or virtually. We treat individuals of all ages using evidence-based medical treatments. We accept many commercial insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid.
Revival Recovery Center is an outpatient treatment center offering comprehensive medical services to treat substance abuse, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD either in-person or virtually. We treat individuals of all ages using evidence-based medical treatments. We accept many commercial insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid.
(810) 209-2379 View (810) 209-2379
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Giordano, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jennifer Giordano
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
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 Jeremy M. Baruch, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeremy M. Baruch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Patti Tieman, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patti Tieman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084
Maybe you’ve had psychiatric services before, but they didn’t help. You felt rushed and weren’t able to explain your situation and how it was affecting your ability to function and have a life you could enjoy. Maybe the meds weren’t working, but your prescriber didn’t want to make changes. Many of my patients come to me when they haven’t been able to find any lasting improvement. Some turn to substances to self-medicate and that gets out of hand and becomes another problem to deal with. If this sounds familiar, you need to know that this can be a typical starting point prior to treatment that works!
Maybe you’ve had psychiatric services before, but they didn’t help. You felt rushed and weren’t able to explain your situation and how it was affecting your ability to function and have a life you could enjoy. Maybe the meds weren’t working, but your prescriber didn’t want to make changes. Many of my patients come to me when they haven’t been able to find any lasting improvement. Some turn to substances to self-medicate and that gets out of hand and becomes another problem to deal with. If this sounds familiar, you need to know that this can be a typical starting point prior to treatment that works!
(248) 951-9893 View (248) 951-9893
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, MD, Psychiatrist
TelaMD Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (248) 216-1901 if you would like to set up an appointment.
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (248) 216-1901 if you would like to set up an appointment.
(248) 216-1901 View (248) 216-1901
Photo of Umeika Stephens, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Umeika Stephens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As a Detroit native, she is acutely aware of the mental and physical health care needs in the community and the disparities that impact patients' access to culturally sensitive mental health services. My goal is to listen and help patients set goals and receive treatments that help them to become the versions of themselves. I believe that care occurs as a team effort with the patient as the expert in their lived experience. I offer pharmacogenetic testing for medications and truly strive to create patient centered care atmosphere.
As a Detroit native, she is acutely aware of the mental and physical health care needs in the community and the disparities that impact patients' access to culturally sensitive mental health services. My goal is to listen and help patients set goals and receive treatments that help them to become the versions of themselves. I believe that care occurs as a team effort with the patient as the expert in their lived experience. I offer pharmacogenetic testing for medications and truly strive to create patient centered care atmosphere.
(248) 574-8029 View (248) 574-8029
Photo of Hetal Patel - Helios Psychiatry and Counseling, Psychiatrist
Helios Psychiatry and Counseling
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Troy, MI 48083
Helios Psychiatry and Counseling is a group practice consisting of a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistants, licensed social workers, and licensed professional counselors. We are committed to providing services to clients who suffer from any emotional or mental health issues -- depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessions, addiction, among other issues.
Helios Psychiatry and Counseling is a group practice consisting of a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistants, licensed social workers, and licensed professional counselors. We are committed to providing services to clients who suffer from any emotional or mental health issues -- depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessions, addiction, among other issues.
(586) 371-8150 View (586) 371-8150
Photo of Mark L. Silverman - Ketamine Psychiatric at Imagine Health, P.C., MD, Psychiatrist
Ketamine Psychiatric at Imagine Health, P.C.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Mark L. Silverman, M.D. is thrilled to be a provider of Ketamine I.V. infusions. It is an outstanding treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression and has also been beneficial for patients with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic pain, and a variety of anxiety disorders.
Mark L. Silverman, M.D. is thrilled to be a provider of Ketamine I.V. infusions. It is an outstanding treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression and has also been beneficial for patients with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic pain, and a variety of anxiety disorders.
(248) 712-1784 View (248) 712-1784
Photo of Krista Askins Bedells, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Krista Askins Bedells
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Krista is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing psychiatric care across the state Michigan specializing in anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, adjustment disorders. Krista works with adults ages 18 and over. She provides holistic care with a patient centered approach that includes medication management and supportive therapy. Her practice is virtual across the state of Michigan. Krista has over 15 years working as a nurse in hospital settings, urgent care, private practice, and community mental health agencies. Krista has been a PMHNP-BC since 2018. Visit website to schedule an eval
Krista is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing psychiatric care across the state Michigan specializing in anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, adjustment disorders. Krista works with adults ages 18 and over. She provides holistic care with a patient centered approach that includes medication management and supportive therapy. Her practice is virtual across the state of Michigan. Krista has over 15 years working as a nurse in hospital settings, urgent care, private practice, and community mental health agencies. Krista has been a PMHNP-BC since 2018. Visit website to schedule an eval
(517) 797-1956 View (517) 797-1956
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 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 Rachael Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Rachael Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430
I enjoy helping people from all cultural backgrounds and from different walks of life to overcome their immediate obstacles and to reach their fullest potential. I believe with the right tools and support people are resilient and can overcome life’s challenges. I provide psychiatric medication management and assessment for both adolescents and adults. Treatment specialties include but are not limited to; depression, anxiety/panic disorders, bipolar/mood disorders, PTSD/trauma, schizophrenia/psychotic disorders, ADHD and Substance Use Disorders.
I enjoy helping people from all cultural backgrounds and from different walks of life to overcome their immediate obstacles and to reach their fullest potential. I believe with the right tools and support people are resilient and can overcome life’s challenges. I provide psychiatric medication management and assessment for both adolescents and adults. Treatment specialties include but are not limited to; depression, anxiety/panic disorders, bipolar/mood disorders, PTSD/trauma, schizophrenia/psychotic disorders, ADHD and Substance Use Disorders.
(810) 818-1359 View (810) 818-1359
Photo of Alexis Lykins, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Lykins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - Are you searching for a professional who is passionate about working collaboratively with you toward a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and helps accomplish your mental health goals? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners who provides medication consultation and management, along with other mental health services, I enjoy treating the underlying causes of symptoms and concerns, and often implement nutritional, behavioral, and lifestyle modifications as part of my practice.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - Are you searching for a professional who is passionate about working collaboratively with you toward a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and helps accomplish your mental health goals? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners who provides medication consultation and management, along with other mental health services, I enjoy treating the underlying causes of symptoms and concerns, and often implement nutritional, behavioral, and lifestyle modifications as part of my practice.
(586) 846-4835 View (586) 846-4835
Photo of Heidi Chriss, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Heidi Chriss
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At Traini Counseling, we offer a wide range of services designed to support your mental health needs. Whether you're an adult or a child, we have specialized prescribers ready to provide expert guidance and prescribe medications tailored to your unique requirements. Benefit from in-office or video consultations with TCG prescribers for quicker relief from symptoms related to bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health challenges. Whether discussing treatment options or seeking a prescription refill, our prescribers are here to assist, with appointments available every 20 minutes.
At Traini Counseling, we offer a wide range of services designed to support your mental health needs. Whether you're an adult or a child, we have specialized prescribers ready to provide expert guidance and prescribe medications tailored to your unique requirements. Benefit from in-office or video consultations with TCG prescribers for quicker relief from symptoms related to bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health challenges. Whether discussing treatment options or seeking a prescription refill, our prescribers are here to assist, with appointments available every 20 minutes.
(810) 631-3045 View (810) 631-3045
Photo of Jennifer Wims-Madden - Healing Minds Oasis, LLC, DBH, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing Minds Oasis, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DBH, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My practice philosophy centers on treating the whole person through a holistic, compassionate, and understanding approach. I believe in providing individualized, comprehensive care that addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of psychiatric conditions. My dedication to holistic care is demonstrated through integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being into treatment plans. My approach to treatment is rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that individuals feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey.
My practice philosophy centers on treating the whole person through a holistic, compassionate, and understanding approach. I believe in providing individualized, comprehensive care that addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of psychiatric conditions. My dedication to holistic care is demonstrated through integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being into treatment plans. My approach to treatment is rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that individuals feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey.
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See more therapy options for Farmington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Farmington, MI

< 10

Psychiatrists in Farmington, MI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
75% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Psychosis
75% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% BHS | Behavioral Health Systems

How Psychiatrists in Farmington, MI see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Farmington?

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.