Psychiatrists in New Hudson, MI

Brandi Sykes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
New Hudson, MI 48165
Brandi Sykes, PMHNP, is a dedicated clinician at LifeStance Health who provides compassionate and clinically informed medication management services to adults and seniors throughout Michigan. She works with individuals ages 18 and up, including young adults, adults in midlife, and older adults navigating later-life mental health needs. Brandi understands that each person’s mental health journey is unique and collaborates closely with her patients to create personalized care plans that promote lasting well-being and emotional stability.
Brandi Sykes, PMHNP, is a dedicated clinician at LifeStance Health who provides compassionate and clinically informed medication management services to adults and seniors throughout Michigan. She works with individuals ages 18 and up, including young adults, adults in midlife, and older adults navigating later-life mental health needs. Brandi understands that each person’s mental health journey is unique and collaborates closely with her patients to create personalized care plans that promote lasting well-being and emotional stability.
(248) 920-9195 View (248) 920-9195
Photo of Jana Orr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jana Orr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
She is also experienced in addressing gender identity issues, offering affirming care to LGBTQ+ individuals, including gender-affirmative medical readiness evaluations. Jana's approach is holistic, blending evidence-based interventions like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with her medical expertise to help patients achieve emotional balance and mental wellness. In addition to her focus on anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders, Jana is passionate about working with individuals experiencing grief, trauma, and insomnia.
She is also experienced in addressing gender identity issues, offering affirming care to LGBTQ+ individuals, including gender-affirmative medical readiness evaluations. Jana's approach is holistic, blending evidence-based interventions like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with her medical expertise to help patients achieve emotional balance and mental wellness. In addition to her focus on anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders, Jana is passionate about working with individuals experiencing grief, trauma, and insomnia.
(810) 202-0279 View (810) 202-0279
Photo of Gordon Garris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gordon Garris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Gordon Garris, PMHNP, is committed to helping individuals across Michigan navigate the complexities of mental health and achieve greater well-being. He provides comprehensive care for children, adolescents, and adults through individualized therapy, medication management, and psychological testing. With expertise in treating ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma, Gordon offers tailored interventions to support his patients in overcoming challenges and improving their quality of life. His compassionate approach ensures that each person receives the personalized care they need to thrive.
Gordon Garris, PMHNP, is committed to helping individuals across Michigan navigate the complexities of mental health and achieve greater well-being. He provides comprehensive care for children, adolescents, and adults through individualized therapy, medication management, and psychological testing. With expertise in treating ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma, Gordon offers tailored interventions to support his patients in overcoming challenges and improving their quality of life. His compassionate approach ensures that each person receives the personalized care they need to thrive.
(810) 638-9622 View (810) 638-9622
Photo of Mfon Essien, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Mfon Essien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
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 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 Jenna Chambless, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Jenna Chambless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
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 Ijeoma Oranefo-Okoye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ijeoma Oranefo-Okoye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Ijeoma Oranefo-Okoye, NP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan achieve mental wellness through compassionate care and evidence-based treatments. She provides individualized therapy and medication management, offering support to adolescents, adults, and seniors facing a range of mental health challenges. Her expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder allows her to tailor treatment plans that empower her patients to regain control of their lives.
Ijeoma Oranefo-Okoye, NP, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan achieve mental wellness through compassionate care and evidence-based treatments. She provides individualized therapy and medication management, offering support to adolescents, adults, and seniors facing a range of mental health challenges. Her expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder allows her to tailor treatment plans that empower her patients to regain control of their lives.
(810) 688-6814 View (810) 688-6814
Photo of Chiamaka Uzoma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, NP
Chiamaka Uzoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, NP
Serves Area
Chiamaka Uzoma, Nurse Practitioner, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan navigate mental health challenges with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. She treats a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. Whether you are struggling with sleep disorders, substance use issues, or navigating complex emotions surrounding grief, gender identity, or life transitions, Chiamaka offers expert care tailored to your needs. Her focus is on fostering resilience and empowering patients to take charge of their mental health journey.
Chiamaka Uzoma, Nurse Practitioner, is dedicated to helping individuals in Michigan navigate mental health challenges with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. She treats a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. Whether you are struggling with sleep disorders, substance use issues, or navigating complex emotions surrounding grief, gender identity, or life transitions, Chiamaka offers expert care tailored to your needs. Her focus is on fostering resilience and empowering patients to take charge of their mental health journey.
(810) 642-4367 View (810) 642-4367
Photo of Chinwe Ohaka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Chinwe Ohaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Adult and Psychiatric Mental Health, I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and holistic treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a patient-centered focus, emphasizing collaboration and personalized care. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be daunting, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. I am here to listen, support, and empower you on your path to wellness. Together, we can explore solutions that resonate with your values and aspirations.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Adult and Psychiatric Mental Health, I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and holistic treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a patient-centered focus, emphasizing collaboration and personalized care. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be daunting, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. I am here to listen, support, and empower you on your path to wellness. Together, we can explore solutions that resonate with your values and aspirations.
(810) 888-0212 View (810) 888-0212
Photo of Christopher Noggle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Christopher Noggle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Serves Area
Christopher Noggle is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, providing compassionate and evidence-based mental health care to patients across Michigan. He specializes in medication management for individuals of all ages, from young children to seniors, helping them navigate complex mental health challenges with a personalized and supportive approach. Christopher understands that each person’s journey is unique and works collaboratively with his patients to develop treatment plans that align with their specific needs and goals.
Christopher Noggle is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, providing compassionate and evidence-based mental health care to patients across Michigan. He specializes in medication management for individuals of all ages, from young children to seniors, helping them navigate complex mental health challenges with a personalized and supportive approach. Christopher understands that each person’s journey is unique and works collaboratively with his patients to develop treatment plans that align with their specific needs and goals.
(810) 672-1244 View (810) 672-1244
Photo of Sara Elmore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sara Elmore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Sara Elmore, PMHNP, brings compassionate expertise to LifeStance Health in Michigan, where she serves patients navigating mental health challenges across all stages of life. Sara offers individual therapy, medication management, and testing services to children, teens, adults, and seniors. She is committed to fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to address conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma. Sara’s personalized care integrates evidence-based treatments with a focus on restoring balance and well-being.
Sara Elmore, PMHNP, brings compassionate expertise to LifeStance Health in Michigan, where she serves patients navigating mental health challenges across all stages of life. Sara offers individual therapy, medication management, and testing services to children, teens, adults, and seniors. She is committed to fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to address conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma. Sara’s personalized care integrates evidence-based treatments with a focus on restoring balance and well-being.
(810) 644-3516 View (810) 644-3516
Photo of Anthony Opara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Anthony Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Serves Area
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.
(810) 819-2486 View (810) 819-2486

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tamekia Crook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tamekia Crook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
You should know I'm passionate about decreasing the stigmas associated with mental illness. I firmly believe that mental illness is no different from a medical condition in that many of the mental illnesses we contend with have genetic components, just like medical illnesses like high blood pressure or diabetes. Therefore, I commend anyone with the insight to recognize when it's time to take charge of their mental health. This is your life, and I will always collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that will help you meet your mental health goals.
You should know I'm passionate about decreasing the stigmas associated with mental illness. I firmly believe that mental illness is no different from a medical condition in that many of the mental illnesses we contend with have genetic components, just like medical illnesses like high blood pressure or diabetes. Therefore, I commend anyone with the insight to recognize when it's time to take charge of their mental health. This is your life, and I will always collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that will help you meet your mental health goals.
(734) 577-8603 View (734) 577-8603
Photo of Darla Dane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Darla Dane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with several years of experience helping adults manage challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and trauma-related concerns. My style is collaborative and straightforward: I believe in providing comprehensive, quality care while building a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship with each person I work with.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with several years of experience helping adults manage challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and trauma-related concerns. My style is collaborative and straightforward: I believe in providing comprehensive, quality care while building a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship with each person I work with.
(248) 479-3657 View (248) 479-3657
Photo of Raji George, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, NP
Raji George
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, NP
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Dr. Raji George is an advanced practice registered nurse. She has been an instructor at Oakland University school of Nursing since 2019. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner. She began her training at Rajiv Gandhi University, India, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2001.
Dr. Raji George is an advanced practice registered nurse. She has been an instructor at Oakland University school of Nursing since 2019. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner. She began her training at Rajiv Gandhi University, India, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2001.
(248) 773-4598 View (248) 773-4598
New Vision Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
4 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 Jasmine Cofield, Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C
Jasmine Cofield
Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C
Online Only
I am a psychiatric physician associate with advanced training in neuroscience, psychology, family medicine, and education. I provide care for children, college students, high-functioning professionals, and executives managing ADHD, anxiety, burnout, emotional dysregulation, or academic stress. My clients juggle demanding lives and need care that is validating, practical, and improves daily function. As an educator, mentor, diversity leader, and doctoral student, I understand the demands of life and the pressure to maintain your mental health while showing up for others. My goal is to make care feel accessible and aligned.
I am a psychiatric physician associate with advanced training in neuroscience, psychology, family medicine, and education. I provide care for children, college students, high-functioning professionals, and executives managing ADHD, anxiety, burnout, emotional dysregulation, or academic stress. My clients juggle demanding lives and need care that is validating, practical, and improves daily function. As an educator, mentor, diversity leader, and doctoral student, I understand the demands of life and the pressure to maintain your mental health while showing up for others. My goal is to make care feel accessible and aligned.
(248) 290-9352 View (248) 290-9352
Photo of Marianty Mavros, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Marianty Mavros
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
6 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084
Hello, I am happy you are taking a step towards improving your mental health. My name is Marianty and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and overall mood instability in adult and pediatric patients. I provide medication management, therapy recommendations, and natural supplementation advice. My goal is to help my patients live a more balanced, peaceful life.
Hello, I am happy you are taking a step towards improving your mental health. My name is Marianty and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and overall mood instability in adult and pediatric patients. I provide medication management, therapy recommendations, and natural supplementation advice. My goal is to help my patients live a more balanced, peaceful life.
(248) 397-9554 View (248) 397-9554
Photo of Mansi S Mehta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP, CNL, RN
Mansi S Mehta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP, CNL, RN
5 Endorsed
Plymouth, MI 48170
EMAIL/CALL (immediate openings within one week) - A true integrative psychiatry incorporates complementary/alternative/ talk therapy modalities for mind, body & soul connection. Modern Psychiatry requires a good insight into trauma informed care since we more than just diagnosis. Such trauma focused care augments safe space, enables freedom from trauma pain & ability to design future with more than just med management. In psychiatry symptoms often overlap with medical issues, so as double board-certified NP in Family Medicine & Psychiatry, I am comfortable capturing & addressing both medical and psych issues in a holistic manner.
EMAIL/CALL (immediate openings within one week) - A true integrative psychiatry incorporates complementary/alternative/ talk therapy modalities for mind, body & soul connection. Modern Psychiatry requires a good insight into trauma informed care since we more than just diagnosis. Such trauma focused care augments safe space, enables freedom from trauma pain & ability to design future with more than just med management. In psychiatry symptoms often overlap with medical issues, so as double board-certified NP in Family Medicine & Psychiatry, I am comfortable capturing & addressing both medical and psych issues in a holistic manner.
(313) 254-6805 View (313) 254-6805
Photo of Brian Weinstein - Mind Health Group, Psychiatrist, DO , PA, NP
Mind Health Group
Psychiatrist, DO , PA, NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Mind Health Group, we believe mental health care should be clear, compassionate, and accessible, never confusing or delayed. That’s why we deliver expert psychiatric support that’s fast, personalized, and virtual. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, postpartum changes, cognitive decline, or recovering from a traumatic brain injury, our licensed team provides care that’s built around you.
At Mind Health Group, we believe mental health care should be clear, compassionate, and accessible, never confusing or delayed. That’s why we deliver expert psychiatric support that’s fast, personalized, and virtual. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, postpartum changes, cognitive decline, or recovering from a traumatic brain injury, our licensed team provides care that’s built around you.
(248) 710-0743 View (248) 710-0743
Photo of Ashwini Gulwadi - Ashwini Gulwadi, M.D, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Ashwini Gulwadi, M.D, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
In- office and Tele-visit appointments are available. With my small private practice set up, it gives me the ability to offer first session within 1-3 weeks of your first call to the office, and the flexibility to have regular appointments based on your concerns and treatment plan. Treatment options I provide include Psychotherapy, Psychotropic medication management or combination of both approaches. Your treatment will be aimed towards lowering clinical symptoms, and also improving your functioning in various aspects of life, creating stability and long-lasting positive changes in your life. (Practice website link is on this page)
In- office and Tele-visit appointments are available. With my small private practice set up, it gives me the ability to offer first session within 1-3 weeks of your first call to the office, and the flexibility to have regular appointments based on your concerns and treatment plan. Treatment options I provide include Psychotherapy, Psychotropic medication management or combination of both approaches. Your treatment will be aimed towards lowering clinical symptoms, and also improving your functioning in various aspects of life, creating stability and long-lasting positive changes in your life. (Practice website link is on this page)
(734) 436-3821 View (734) 436-3821

See more therapy options for New Hudson

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in New Hudson, MI

10+

Psychiatrists in New Hudson, MI who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
82% Trauma and PTSD
82% Psychosis
82% Bipolar Disorder
82% Sleep or Insomnia
82% Medication Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in New Hudson, MI see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in New Hudson?

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.