Psychiatrists in Keego Harbor, MI

Photo of Raji George, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Raji George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Keego Harbor, MI 48320
Raji George is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan and is and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She originally obtained her Bachelor of science degree in Nursing(BSN) from India. She has the training and experience in diagnosing and, treating patients across the life span for all primary care and mental health conditions(anxiety, depression, PTSD/ trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder).
Raji George is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan and is and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She originally obtained her Bachelor of science degree in Nursing(BSN) from India. She has the training and experience in diagnosing and, treating patients across the life span for all primary care and mental health conditions(anxiety, depression, PTSD/ trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder).
(248) 773-4598 View (248) 773-4598
Photo of Iyantta S. Howell, MD, Psychiatrist
Iyantta S. Howell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Iyantta S. Howell is a double board-certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2008. She obtained her bachelor's degree from The University of Michigan and obtained her medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine. She went on to complete her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training at The University of Pennsylvania's Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Howell has experience working in a variety of clinical environments, including inpatient and outpatient settings, prisons, residential treatment facilities, and partial hospital programs.
Dr. Iyantta S. Howell is a double board-certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2008. She obtained her bachelor's degree from The University of Michigan and obtained her medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine. She went on to complete her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training at The University of Pennsylvania's Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Howell has experience working in a variety of clinical environments, including inpatient and outpatient settings, prisons, residential treatment facilities, and partial hospital programs.
(248) 720-5835 View (248) 720-5835
Photo of Dr. Iyantta S. Howell - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Keego Harbor, MI 48320
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 Dr. Sarah DeLeon, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sarah DeLeon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Keego Harbor, MI 48320
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 Neil Talon, MD, Psychiatrist
Neil Talon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Keego Harbor, MI 48320
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 Stephanie Lim, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Lim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP
Verified Verified
Keego Harbor, MI 48320
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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 Ammar Ali - The Place of Hope PLC, MD, Psychiatrist
The Place of Hope PLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, My name is Ammar Ali, I am a Medical Doctor and board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience working in hospitals across the United States. I graduated from Kufa University College of Medicine in Iraq in 2003 and finished psychiatry training in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Sanford School of Medicine University of South Dakota in 2014.
Hello, My name is Ammar Ali, I am a Medical Doctor and board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience working in hospitals across the United States. I graduated from Kufa University College of Medicine in Iraq in 2003 and finished psychiatry training in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Sanford School of Medicine University of South Dakota in 2014.
(313) 825-4275 View (313) 825-4275
Photo of 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
New Vision Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
Hello there, and Welcome! How are you feeling today? Are you having difficulties managing your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors? Are these issues affecting your daily life, relationships, work and your overall-wellbeing? If you or anyone you know is struggling with mood swings, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, delusions, social withdrawal, difficulties with concentration, sleep deprivation, and fatigue, I want you to know that you are not alone. What are your mental health goals? What do you hope to achieve?
Hello there, and Welcome! How are you feeling today? Are you having difficulties managing your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors? Are these issues affecting your daily life, relationships, work and your overall-wellbeing? If you or anyone you know is struggling with mood swings, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, delusions, social withdrawal, difficulties with concentration, sleep deprivation, and fatigue, I want you to know that you are not alone. What are your mental health goals? What do you hope to achieve?
(313) 631-6261 x100 View (313) 631-6261 x100
Photo of Hassan Almaat - Advanced Psychiatric Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Advanced Psychiatric Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Laila Marashi, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laila Marashi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
I specialize in pediatric, adolescent, and adult psychiatry across diverse diagnoses. I work closely with my patients and their families to develop individualized treatment plans specific to their medical and psychiatric needs. My treatment approach is holistic, and patient centered. When appropriate, I believe that medication treatment in mental health is just one piece in the puzzle of achieving optimal wellbeing.
I specialize in pediatric, adolescent, and adult psychiatry across diverse diagnoses. I work closely with my patients and their families to develop individualized treatment plans specific to their medical and psychiatric needs. My treatment approach is holistic, and patient centered. When appropriate, I believe that medication treatment in mental health is just one piece in the puzzle of achieving optimal wellbeing.
(248) 600-4942 View (248) 600-4942
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 Jennifer Marie Bowden - Jennifer Bowden Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Bowden Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Parents want their children to thrive in life. They can feel helpless and frightened when their children suffer from mental health concerns. Seeking mental health care can also feel overwhelming. Parents want to feel confident in finding a doctor who they can trust to educate them and their children on accurate diagnosis and the risks and benefits of the most evidence-based treatment options for their children.
Parents want their children to thrive in life. They can feel helpless and frightened when their children suffer from mental health concerns. Seeking mental health care can also feel overwhelming. Parents want to feel confident in finding a doctor who they can trust to educate them and their children on accurate diagnosis and the risks and benefits of the most evidence-based treatment options for their children.
(616) 557-7576 View (616) 557-7576
Photo of Ekuevugbe Onosode, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ekuevugbe Onosode
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Ekus Onosode is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan with six months of experience. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oakland University School of Nursing and a PMHNP from Frontier Nursing University. Ekus believes in listening and understanding a patient's health concerns while being an avid educator skilled in teaching prevention methods and promoting self-care. She takes the time to get to know patients and their family's health history to manage existing mental illnesses and teach coping skills to help patients be functional and independent as possible.
Ekus Onosode is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan with six months of experience. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oakland University School of Nursing and a PMHNP from Frontier Nursing University. Ekus believes in listening and understanding a patient's health concerns while being an avid educator skilled in teaching prevention methods and promoting self-care. She takes the time to get to know patients and their family's health history to manage existing mental illnesses and teach coping skills to help patients be functional and independent as possible.
(810) 371-3890 View (810) 371-3890
Photo of Thomas T Park - Thomas Park MD & Associates, MD, Psychiatrist
Thomas Park MD & Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48075
Thomas Park MD is a skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate Board Certified Psychiatrist who has been in practice for over forty years. Dr. Park specializes in evaluation, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders, untreatable depression as well as Traumatic Brain Injury (closed head injury).
Thomas Park MD is a skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate Board Certified Psychiatrist who has been in practice for over forty years. Dr. Park specializes in evaluation, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders, untreatable depression as well as Traumatic Brain Injury (closed head injury).
(313) 546-1113 View (313) 546-1113
Photo of Michael D Colman, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael D Colman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
As a psychiatrist, child/adolescent psychiatrist, and psychoanalyst, my viewpoint is that emotional disturbances have as their basis the way a person thinks and feels. In treatment situations, I attempt to elaborate and elucidate the way a person thinks in order to help that person see the connections between their thinking and behavior, and what troubles that person. The symptoms which a person presents with help to lead us in the direction of discovering what the underlying problem is. It is a truism that one needs to know a problem is present in order to be able to do something about it.
As a psychiatrist, child/adolescent psychiatrist, and psychoanalyst, my viewpoint is that emotional disturbances have as their basis the way a person thinks and feels. In treatment situations, I attempt to elaborate and elucidate the way a person thinks in order to help that person see the connections between their thinking and behavior, and what troubles that person. The symptoms which a person presents with help to lead us in the direction of discovering what the underlying problem is. It is a truism that one needs to know a problem is present in order to be able to do something about it.
(248) 936-6347 View (248) 936-6347
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 Stacy Meitler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Meitler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I'm a nurse practitioner with real-world experience who has worked in various settings over my 30+ years in the medical field. I'm dually certified in primary care and psychiatric care, with a specialty focus on geriatric care, dementia, adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, intellectual disability, anxiety, insomnia, nightmare disorders, and PTSD.
Hi, I'm a nurse practitioner with real-world experience who has worked in various settings over my 30+ years in the medical field. I'm dually certified in primary care and psychiatric care, with a specialty focus on geriatric care, dementia, adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, intellectual disability, anxiety, insomnia, nightmare disorders, and PTSD.
(517) 300-8814 View (517) 300-8814
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

See more therapy options for Keego Harbor

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Keego Harbor, MI

< 10

Psychiatrists in Keego Harbor, MI who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
83% Depression
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Sleep or Insomnia
67% Medication Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Priority Health
83% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Keego Harbor, MI see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Keego Harbor?

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.