Psychiatrists in Livingston County, MI

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Photo of Amita Kapoor, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amita Kapoor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
My vision is to reach out to individuals in the community to provide compassionate and timely mental health care. My treatment approach is based on accepting every individual as and where they are and helping them through their journey towards a complete and more holistic version of themselves. I understand that addressing mental health needs can be a challenge and am willing to go above and beyond to provide better mental health for you, by not only utilizing my skills and experience built on trusted and established first-line treatment options, but also thinking out of the box by exploring new avenues.
My vision is to reach out to individuals in the community to provide compassionate and timely mental health care. My treatment approach is based on accepting every individual as and where they are and helping them through their journey towards a complete and more holistic version of themselves. I understand that addressing mental health needs can be a challenge and am willing to go above and beyond to provide better mental health for you, by not only utilizing my skills and experience built on trusted and established first-line treatment options, but also thinking out of the box by exploring new avenues.
(810) 374-0216 View (810) 374-0216
Viken Matossian
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
If you are feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or emotionally troubled, it may be time to seek the assistance of a qualified therapist at Advanced Behavioral Medicine. The high quality out-patient psychiatric clinc offers help for martial problems, sleep difficulties, low self-esteem, phobias, parenting anxieties and panic attacks.
If you are feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or emotionally troubled, it may be time to seek the assistance of a qualified therapist at Advanced Behavioral Medicine. The high quality out-patient psychiatric clinc offers help for martial problems, sleep difficulties, low self-esteem, phobias, parenting anxieties and panic attacks.
(517) 759-1766 View (517) 759-1766
Photo of Mfon Essien, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mfon Essien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Essien Mfon is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan with one year of experience. She earned a Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy and a Master of Nursing from Walden. Essien believes it is important to be able to assess, treat, and modify treatments as necessary to meet each client's potential goals. In her spare time, Essien enjoys reading, dancing, singing, and travelling.
Essien Mfon is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan with one year of experience. She earned a Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy and a Master of Nursing from Walden. Essien believes it is important to be able to assess, treat, and modify treatments as necessary to meet each client's potential goals. In her spare time, Essien enjoys reading, dancing, singing, and travelling.
(810) 678-6300 View (810) 678-6300
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 Chiamaka Uzoma, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chiamaka Uzoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated from Walden University. I believe in providing individualized care to my patients by acknowledging their unique situations, providing compassionate and good care
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated from Walden University. I believe in providing individualized care to my patients by acknowledging their unique situations, providing compassionate and good care
(810) 642-4367 View (810) 642-4367
Photo of Austin Powell, PAC, Physician Assistant
Austin Powell
Physician Assistant, PAC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
LGBTQ allied - I am gay myself. See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUSES: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Impulse Control, PTSD. All of us at Arbor Psych go beyond the usual old 15 psych meds and utilize newer meds and other treatments. Our approach involves looking at root causes rather than only symptoms. We look for nutritional deficits, metabolic abnormalities, subtle psychological trauma, hidden sleep issues, brain injury, and advanced thyroid testing. If nothing has helped, please consider us. I can't emphasize enough that our first 3 priorities are diagnosis, diagnosis, and diagnosis.
LGBTQ allied - I am gay myself. See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUSES: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Impulse Control, PTSD. All of us at Arbor Psych go beyond the usual old 15 psych meds and utilize newer meds and other treatments. Our approach involves looking at root causes rather than only symptoms. We look for nutritional deficits, metabolic abnormalities, subtle psychological trauma, hidden sleep issues, brain injury, and advanced thyroid testing. If nothing has helped, please consider us. I can't emphasize enough that our first 3 priorities are diagnosis, diagnosis, and diagnosis.
(810) 255-4089 x1 View (810) 255-4089 x1
Photo of Anthony Opara, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthony Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Anthony Opara, PMHNP, is a dedicated mental health provider at LifeStance Health, serving patients throughout Michigan. Anthony specializes in treating a variety of mental health conditions and by offering both pharmacological and nonpharmacological strategies, he tailors treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs, ensuring a comprehensive and resultsdriven approach to mental health care. Anthony is particularly passionate about addressing anxiety and depression, recognizing the profound impact these conditions can have on an individual's daily life.
Anthony Opara, PMHNP, is a dedicated mental health provider at LifeStance Health, serving patients throughout Michigan. Anthony specializes in treating a variety of mental health conditions and by offering both pharmacological and nonpharmacological strategies, he tailors treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs, ensuring a comprehensive and resultsdriven approach to mental health care. Anthony is particularly passionate about addressing anxiety and depression, recognizing the profound impact these conditions can have on an individual's daily life.
(877) 330-2459 View (877) 330-2459
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
Heather Anthony
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
My name is Heather Anthony, PMHNP-BC. I have been a Registered Nurse since 2007. I have professional experience as a psychiatric nurse since 2011. I have professional experience as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2019. I performed my BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) undergraduate studies at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, MI. I performed my MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) graduate studies at Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. I have experience treating children, adolescent & adult populations with various mental health goals and past experiences.
My name is Heather Anthony, PMHNP-BC. I have been a Registered Nurse since 2007. I have professional experience as a psychiatric nurse since 2011. I have professional experience as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2019. I performed my BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) undergraduate studies at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, MI. I performed my MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) graduate studies at Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. I have experience treating children, adolescent & adult populations with various mental health goals and past experiences.
(810) 442-0624 View (810) 442-0624
Photo of Jenna Chambless, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenna Chambless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a certified nurse-midwife. I have been working with women through the hardest of times for around 15 years. My passion is to help women who are struggling with anxiety and depression and the changes of life before pregnancy, during pregnancy and throughout motherhood. My philosophy is to use a holistic approach to help women reach optimal mental resilience. I love approaching mental health support by taking a whole person approach to treating symptoms of anxiety and depression, through lifestyle modifications, nutrition, sleep, community and medication management.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a certified nurse-midwife. I have been working with women through the hardest of times for around 15 years. My passion is to help women who are struggling with anxiety and depression and the changes of life before pregnancy, during pregnancy and throughout motherhood. My philosophy is to use a holistic approach to help women reach optimal mental resilience. I love approaching mental health support by taking a whole person approach to treating symptoms of anxiety and depression, through lifestyle modifications, nutrition, sleep, community and medication management.
(810) 888-0928 View (810) 888-0928
Photo of Chinwe Ohaka, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinwe Ohaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Chinwe Ohaka, PMHNP, is committed to helping adults across Michigan enhance their mental well-being through a compassionate and holistic approach. As a clinician at LifeStance Health, Chichi combines her listening skills, empathy, and open-mindedness to create a supportive environment for each client. She offers a range of services, including individual therapy, medication management, and group therapy, to meet the diverse needs of her clients. Chichi is passionate about supporting individuals with dementia, understanding the unique challenges and complexities associated with this condition.
Chinwe Ohaka, PMHNP, is committed to helping adults across Michigan enhance their mental well-being through a compassionate and holistic approach. As a clinician at LifeStance Health, Chichi combines her listening skills, empathy, and open-mindedness to create a supportive environment for each client. She offers a range of services, including individual therapy, medication management, and group therapy, to meet the diverse needs of her clients. Chichi is passionate about supporting individuals with dementia, understanding the unique challenges and complexities associated with this condition.
(877) 330-2459 View (877) 330-2459
Photo of Craig Lemmen - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and we collaborate with our counseling specialists to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited and we can't work with patients in counseling with other providers.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and we collaborate with our counseling specialists to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited and we can't work with patients in counseling with other providers.
(734) 294-5776 View (734) 294-5776
Photo of Jen Gonzalez, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jen Gonzalez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
I believe in a holistic approach to mental health. Our mind and body are connected to make up who we are. Getting better is often hard work that requires commitment and patience. There will be times you may want to give up but know that I will be with you every step of the way. I listen with an open mind and will always work within your comfort level. My goal is to help you get well with as little medication as possible.
I believe in a holistic approach to mental health. Our mind and body are connected to make up who we are. Getting better is often hard work that requires commitment and patience. There will be times you may want to give up but know that I will be with you every step of the way. I listen with an open mind and will always work within your comfort level. My goal is to help you get well with as little medication as possible.
(517) 401-4188 View (517) 401-4188
Photo of Norman Emil Alessi, MD, DFAPA, FAACAP, Psychiatrist
Norman Emil Alessi
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, FAACAP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Psychiatry can be much more than merely the identification of a mental disorder and the prescription of psychotropic medications or other interventions to manage the symptoms of the condition. Over the past 40 years I’ve developed an understanding of the resulting functional difficulties that can arise when these conditions are present, tools to characterize them and strategies to treat or meliorate them. My goal and a mission of the Center and its staff is to identify and treat these conditions using a wide range of modalities and to improve a broad range of functioning from executive functioning to social skill functioning.
Psychiatry can be much more than merely the identification of a mental disorder and the prescription of psychotropic medications or other interventions to manage the symptoms of the condition. Over the past 40 years I’ve developed an understanding of the resulting functional difficulties that can arise when these conditions are present, tools to characterize them and strategies to treat or meliorate them. My goal and a mission of the Center and its staff is to identify and treat these conditions using a wide range of modalities and to improve a broad range of functioning from executive functioning to social skill functioning.
(734) 807-4446 View (734) 807-4446
Photo of Dwarakanath Rao, MD, Psychiatrist
Dwarakanath Rao
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
The goal of good therapy is to find ways to love, work, and play through self-understanding. Taking the first step is often the hardest. I offer a safe and confidential forum for self-learning at a pace and manner best suited to you. My training and experience spans psychodynamic therapy, psychoanalysis, overseeing a large outpatient psychiatric clinic, training of residents and interns, and psychoanalytic education and supervision. I have been privileged to assist people for over 30 years. I am on professional committees, and teach at the University of Michigan and at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.
The goal of good therapy is to find ways to love, work, and play through self-understanding. Taking the first step is often the hardest. I offer a safe and confidential forum for self-learning at a pace and manner best suited to you. My training and experience spans psychodynamic therapy, psychoanalysis, overseeing a large outpatient psychiatric clinic, training of residents and interns, and psychoanalytic education and supervision. I have been privileged to assist people for over 30 years. I am on professional committees, and teach at the University of Michigan and at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.
(734) 329-5251 View (734) 329-5251
Photo of Alisa Schlacht, DO, Psychiatrist
Alisa Schlacht
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
My goal is to provide excellent psychiatric care to people of any race, background, gender identity, sexual orientation, size, or abilities. When I see you, I see a whole person. Our minds and our lives are complex. Many factors, both extrinsic (such as our backgrounds, families, environment, stressors) and intrinsic (such as our genetics, neurobiology, hormones, physical health, etc) impact us and our well-being. These factors also affect each other! Fortunately, this complexity also provides many pathways to understand and treat our problems. There are many entry points to the path to feeling whole, connected and well.
My goal is to provide excellent psychiatric care to people of any race, background, gender identity, sexual orientation, size, or abilities. When I see you, I see a whole person. Our minds and our lives are complex. Many factors, both extrinsic (such as our backgrounds, families, environment, stressors) and intrinsic (such as our genetics, neurobiology, hormones, physical health, etc) impact us and our well-being. These factors also affect each other! Fortunately, this complexity also provides many pathways to understand and treat our problems. There are many entry points to the path to feeling whole, connected and well.
(734) 865-2944 View (734) 865-2944
Photo of Akash Kumar - Green Arbor Psych, MD, Psychiatrist
Green Arbor Psych
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUSES: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Impulse Control, PTSD. We use traditional medication when appropriate, but then also use current research to go beyond the usual 15 psych meds. At Arbor Video Psych, our approach involves looking at root causes rather than only symptoms. We look for nutritional deficits, metabolic abnormalities, subtle psychological trauma, hidden sleep issues, brain injury, and advanced thyroid testing going beyond a simple TSH level. If nothing has helped, consider us.
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUSES: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Impulse Control, PTSD. We use traditional medication when appropriate, but then also use current research to go beyond the usual 15 psych meds. At Arbor Video Psych, our approach involves looking at root causes rather than only symptoms. We look for nutritional deficits, metabolic abnormalities, subtle psychological trauma, hidden sleep issues, brain injury, and advanced thyroid testing going beyond a simple TSH level. If nothing has helped, consider us.
(734) 275-2355 View (734) 275-2355
Photo of Rachael Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Rachael Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
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) 672-7226 View (810) 672-7226

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Akash Kumar - Green Arbor Psych, MD, Psychiatrist
Green Arbor Psych
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book a video appointment online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUS: ADHD, Social and General Anxiety, Depression, Mood Swings, Impulse Control, OCD, and PTSD. I investigate for root causes of symptoms and have trained with Dr. Akash Kumar MD on his multi layered diagnostic approach to looking at nutritional, medical, psychiatric, and cognitive dimensions. With this background, we can find underlying often missed subtle conditions that contribute to symptoms.
New patient openings within a week. See openings and book a video appointment online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUS: ADHD, Social and General Anxiety, Depression, Mood Swings, Impulse Control, OCD, and PTSD. I investigate for root causes of symptoms and have trained with Dr. Akash Kumar MD on his multi layered diagnostic approach to looking at nutritional, medical, psychiatric, and cognitive dimensions. With this background, we can find underlying often missed subtle conditions that contribute to symptoms.
(734) 749-9816 x1 View (734) 749-9816 x1
Photo of Julie Kuebler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Kuebler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375  (Online Only)
Julie Kuebler is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 20 years of experience. Julie has a broad range of experiences including both inpatient and outpatient care and has worked in a variety of settings including medication management of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, women's health, adolescent psychiatry.
Julie Kuebler is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 20 years of experience. Julie has a broad range of experiences including both inpatient and outpatient care and has worked in a variety of settings including medication management of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, women's health, adolescent psychiatry.
(248) 453-9247 View (248) 453-9247

See more therapy options for Livingston County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Livingston County, MI

10+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Livingston County, MI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% Trauma and PTSD
78% Medication Management
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
61% Bipolar Disorder
56% ADHD

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Aetna
79% Other

How Psychiatrists in Livingston County, MI see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Livingston County?

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.