Psychiatrists in Southfield, MI

Photo of Dr. Michelle Collins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Dr. Michelle Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Southfield, MI 48075
Hi, my name is Michelle Collins. I hold a doctoral degree in nursing practice. In addition, I am a dual ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health (PMHNP-BC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) with nearly 20 years of broad advanced practice experience. My training and years of clinical practice has allowed me to cultivate competent and compassionate care for clients across the lifespan. Together, we will work to establish a respectful client-provider relationship free from bias, judgement, and stigma. My goal is ultimately to help each client become or return to the best version of themselves.
Hi, my name is Michelle Collins. I hold a doctoral degree in nursing practice. In addition, I am a dual ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health (PMHNP-BC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) with nearly 20 years of broad advanced practice experience. My training and years of clinical practice has allowed me to cultivate competent and compassionate care for clients across the lifespan. Together, we will work to establish a respectful client-provider relationship free from bias, judgement, and stigma. My goal is ultimately to help each client become or return to the best version of themselves.
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Photo of Dr. Jaswant Bagga - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Southfield, MI 48034
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.
(947) 729-8677 View (947) 729-8677
Photo of Carlton Cain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Carlton Cain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
My vision as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to contribute to a healthcare system that prioritizes mental well-being as much as physical health. I am eager to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address the diverse needs of clients. I am particularly passionate about working with underserved populations, where access to mental health services can be limited.
My vision as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is to contribute to a healthcare system that prioritizes mental well-being as much as physical health. I am eager to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address the diverse needs of clients. I am particularly passionate about working with underserved populations, where access to mental health services can be limited.
(313) 246-8197 View (313) 246-8197
Photo of Thomas T Park - Thomas Park MD & Associates, Psychiatrist, MD
Thomas Park MD & Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Southfield, MI 48075
Thomas Park MD & Associates is comprised of skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate professionals utilizing evidence-based and most up-to-date scientific and researched-based treatments, provided by our board-certified specialty Psychiatric Prescribers and Clinical Therapists. Thomas Park MD is a practice that has been providing mental health services to the surrounding communities for over forty years and specializes in the evaluation, treatment, prevention, and diagnosis of mental and emotional disorders, and specializes in treating treatment-resistant depression with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Thomas Park MD & Associates is comprised of skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate professionals utilizing evidence-based and most up-to-date scientific and researched-based treatments, provided by our board-certified specialty Psychiatric Prescribers and Clinical Therapists. Thomas Park MD is a practice that has been providing mental health services to the surrounding communities for over forty years and specializes in the evaluation, treatment, prevention, and diagnosis of mental and emotional disorders, and specializes in treating treatment-resistant depression with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(313) 546-1113 View (313) 546-1113
Photo of Don Oscar Smith - A Better Tomorrow Counseling Services, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
I'm a board-certified adult and child psychiatrist specializing in the true integration of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. I believe in active collaboration with patients to achieve treatment goals, while reducing the need for psychotropic medication when appropriate. I encourage patients, within an empathic and supportive environment, to gain a better understanding of themselves in order to facilitate positive change.
I'm a board-certified adult and child psychiatrist specializing in the true integration of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy. I believe in active collaboration with patients to achieve treatment goals, while reducing the need for psychotropic medication when appropriate. I encourage patients, within an empathic and supportive environment, to gain a better understanding of themselves in order to facilitate positive change.
(517) 513-6662 View (517) 513-6662
Photo of Uche Obua - Apex Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, PhD
Apex Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, PhD
Southfield, MI 48075
Dr. Uche Obua is an experienced healthcare provider. He is a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He holds a Doctor of Nursing degree and a PhD in Biochemistry. Dr. Obua is very experienced in addiction treatment having worked in an outpatient opioid treatment program for the past 5 years. He has in the years affected and orchestrated positive change and made a difference with patients skillfully and with diligence.
Dr. Uche Obua is an experienced healthcare provider. He is a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He holds a Doctor of Nursing degree and a PhD in Biochemistry. Dr. Obua is very experienced in addiction treatment having worked in an outpatient opioid treatment program for the past 5 years. He has in the years affected and orchestrated positive change and made a difference with patients skillfully and with diligence.
(248) 900-2616 View (248) 900-2616
Photo of Kamera Boggon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Kamera Boggon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Southfield, MI 48034
Kamera Boggon, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting adults and seniors in Michigan through medication management and mindfulnessbased interventions. She works with individuals aged 18 and older, offering personalized care to help patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve emotional balance. Kameras clinical expertise focuses on addressing anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disordersinsomnia, creating a safe and supportive environment for patients seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.
Kamera Boggon, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting adults and seniors in Michigan through medication management and mindfulnessbased interventions. She works with individuals aged 18 and older, offering personalized care to help patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve emotional balance. Kameras clinical expertise focuses on addressing anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disordersinsomnia, creating a safe and supportive environment for patients seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.
(947) 222-1439 View (947) 222-1439
Photo of Lisa Kotula, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Lisa Kotula
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Southfield, MI 48034
Lisa Kotula, PMHNP, provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families across Michigan. She supports children, teens, and adults through every stage of life by offering thoughtful medication management services tailored to each person’s unique needs. Whether a patient is navigating childhood challenges, adolescent transitions, or adult mental health concerns, Lisa takes a collaborative, evidence-based approach to treatment designed to promote long-term wellness and emotional resilience.
Lisa Kotula, PMHNP, provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families across Michigan. She supports children, teens, and adults through every stage of life by offering thoughtful medication management services tailored to each person’s unique needs. Whether a patient is navigating childhood challenges, adolescent transitions, or adult mental health concerns, Lisa takes a collaborative, evidence-based approach to treatment designed to promote long-term wellness and emotional resilience.
(947) 223-2320 View (947) 223-2320
Photo of Benjamin Delaney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Benjamin Delaney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 6 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 6 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD.
(248) 765-1795 View (248) 765-1795
Photo of Latoya T Beard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Latoya T Beard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Southfield, MI 48076
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD. I am dedicated to treating each individual holistically with compassion and understanding at the core of my practice. With years of experience in mental health care, I bring a comprehensive approach that integrates evidence-based treatments with personalized care plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient. My focus goes beyond alleviating symptoms; I am committed to addressing the underlying factors that contribute to mental health challenges, promoting long-term well-being and resilience.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD. I am dedicated to treating each individual holistically with compassion and understanding at the core of my practice. With years of experience in mental health care, I bring a comprehensive approach that integrates evidence-based treatments with personalized care plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient. My focus goes beyond alleviating symptoms; I am committed to addressing the underlying factors that contribute to mental health challenges, promoting long-term well-being and resilience.
(734) 212-1576 View (734) 212-1576
Photo of Andrew Spitzer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Andrew Spitzer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
I am fascinated with the human body and the capacity for resilience. I knew early in my academic career that I wanted to learn more about the mind body connection and the effect it has on the individual. I have dedicated over 15yrs to providing care across the lifespan to those afflicted with mental health concerns. In various settings I have worked with individuals and their families to develop treatment plans that are collaborative and evidenced based.
I am fascinated with the human body and the capacity for resilience. I knew early in my academic career that I wanted to learn more about the mind body connection and the effect it has on the individual. I have dedicated over 15yrs to providing care across the lifespan to those afflicted with mental health concerns. In various settings I have worked with individuals and their families to develop treatment plans that are collaborative and evidenced based.
(248) 607-7190 View (248) 607-7190
Photo of Nechama Rothkopf, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Nechama Rothkopf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating challenges such as anxiety, mood disorders, depression, and ADHD. My clinical background includes working with diverse populations, allowing me to tailor treatment plans that align with each person’s unique experiences and goals. My approach blends evidence-based medication management with psychotherapeutic interventions, emphasizing long-term healing and emotional resilience. I view mental health care as a shared journey built on trust and mutual respect.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating challenges such as anxiety, mood disorders, depression, and ADHD. My clinical background includes working with diverse populations, allowing me to tailor treatment plans that align with each person’s unique experiences and goals. My approach blends evidence-based medication management with psychotherapeutic interventions, emphasizing long-term healing and emotional resilience. I view mental health care as a shared journey built on trust and mutual respect.
(248) 564-6261 View (248) 564-6261
Photo of Shiba L Nixon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shiba L Nixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my master’s degree in Nursing Science from Wayne State University. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 14 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, psychosis and ADHD. Foundation thoughts is currently open on Monday evenings and Saturdays offering medication management and therapy. Medication management is offered for various mental health disorders and substance abuse problems. The goal of the company is directed towards a holistic care.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my master’s degree in Nursing Science from Wayne State University. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders of those ages 14 and up including but not limited to anxiety, depression, psychosis and ADHD. Foundation thoughts is currently open on Monday evenings and Saturdays offering medication management and therapy. Medication management is offered for various mental health disorders and substance abuse problems. The goal of the company is directed towards a holistic care.
(313) 513-9772 View (313) 513-9772
Photo of Keisha Malone - Prime Mental Health- Keisha Malone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prime Mental Health- Keisha Malone, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
I believe in the power of connection through shared experience. My approach to care is deeply rooted in empathy and understanding, especially for individuals whose paths mirror my own. I serve young women navigating self-image and identity in the age of social media. Women navigating life's transitions—whether it's the first-time mom facing postpartum challenges, the mother tearfully sending her child to kindergarten, or the ambitious professional balancing a packed schedule with personal expectations.
I believe in the power of connection through shared experience. My approach to care is deeply rooted in empathy and understanding, especially for individuals whose paths mirror my own. I serve young women navigating self-image and identity in the age of social media. Women navigating life's transitions—whether it's the first-time mom facing postpartum challenges, the mother tearfully sending her child to kindergarten, or the ambitious professional balancing a packed schedule with personal expectations.
(248) 956-6899 View (248) 956-6899
Photo of Jennifer Sam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Jennifer Sam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
I specialize in teen psychiatry of 14-19 high school students and adults. I provide medication treatment plans for anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, bulimia, heightened social anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. I have extensive experience in providing psychiatric medication treatment to teens with ASD & Asperger’s (moderate to high functioning), resulting in co-occurring high levels of anxiety, depression and ADHD.
I specialize in teen psychiatry of 14-19 high school students and adults. I provide medication treatment plans for anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, bulimia, heightened social anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. I have extensive experience in providing psychiatric medication treatment to teens with ASD & Asperger’s (moderate to high functioning), resulting in co-occurring high levels of anxiety, depression and ADHD.
(947) 729-2896 View (947) 729-2896
Photo of Amy D Ames, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN , PMHNP
Amy D Ames
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN , PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Amy Ames is a doctorally prepared psychiatric NP who provides psychiatric evaluations, behavioral assessments, medication management consultations, as well as pharmacogenomic testing to children, adolescents, and adults. Her clients vary, encompassing non-traditional families, traditional families, and transitioning young adults. Dr. Ames does not believe in treating patients as a diagnosis alone. She seeks to treat the human condition as a whole, keeping considerations of the diversity and nuance of the social world, the context of life, love, relationships, and individual circumstances in the foreground of her approach.
Amy Ames is a doctorally prepared psychiatric NP who provides psychiatric evaluations, behavioral assessments, medication management consultations, as well as pharmacogenomic testing to children, adolescents, and adults. Her clients vary, encompassing non-traditional families, traditional families, and transitioning young adults. Dr. Ames does not believe in treating patients as a diagnosis alone. She seeks to treat the human condition as a whole, keeping considerations of the diversity and nuance of the social world, the context of life, love, relationships, and individual circumstances in the foreground of her approach.
(248) 920-9691 View (248) 920-9691
Photo of Blair Grose - Rubix Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, PMHNP, FNP-C, LCSW, PhD
Rubix Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD, PMHNP, FNP-C, LCSW, PhD
Online Only
Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? We get it. Mental health struggles are no joke, but you don't have to face them alone. At Rubix Health, our team of compassionate psychiatric experts is here to help you find the light. With evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, we'll walk with you on your journey to wellness.
Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? We get it. Mental health struggles are no joke, but you don't have to face them alone. At Rubix Health, our team of compassionate psychiatric experts is here to help you find the light. With evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, we'll walk with you on your journey to wellness.
(947) 217-6494 View (947) 217-6494
Photo of Dr. Farhad Amiri - Modern Mind Clinic , Psychiatrist, DO
Modern Mind Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
Dear Future Client, as a board certified psychiatrist, I prioritize your well-being and mental health, by understanding that each person is unique and their experiences and needs should be at the center of their treatment journey. My approach focuses on providing personalized care and support to help you achieve optimal mental health. At Modern Mind Clinic, you can be seen as early as 7 days from the completion of your intake form. No patient should wait more than 2 weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist.
Dear Future Client, as a board certified psychiatrist, I prioritize your well-being and mental health, by understanding that each person is unique and their experiences and needs should be at the center of their treatment journey. My approach focuses on providing personalized care and support to help you achieve optimal mental health. At Modern Mind Clinic, you can be seen as early as 7 days from the completion of your intake form. No patient should wait more than 2 weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist.
(248) 607-7190 View (248) 607-7190
Photo of Clarisse Carter - Clarisse Carter- Call today, no waitlist!, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Clarisse Carter- Call today, no waitlist!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I specialize in assisting those with life struggles that may need a little more help than just counseling. I specialize in medication management, and psychiatry. We also have practitioners here for both medical and mental health needs as well for a complete holistic approach to self care.
I specialize in assisting those with life struggles that may need a little more help than just counseling. I specialize in medication management, and psychiatry. We also have practitioners here for both medical and mental health needs as well for a complete holistic approach to self care.
(248) 247-7454 View (248) 247-7454
New Vision Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
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

See more therapy options for Southfield

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Southfield, MI

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Southfield, MI who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
89% Bipolar Disorder
81% ADHD
75% Medication Management
64% Trauma and PTSD
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Aetna
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Southfield, MI see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Southfield?

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.