Psychiatrists in Trenton, MI

As a Physician Associate specializing in psychiatry since 2016, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, personalized care for individuals navigating their mental health journeys. I understand that each person’s experience is unique, and my goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we will work collaboratively to explore your concerns, understand your needs, and develop an individualized treatment plan that empowers you to take steps toward healing and growth. With a blend of clinical expertise and empathy, I am here to help you find balance and restore your well-being.
As a Physician Associate specializing in psychiatry since 2016, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, personalized care for individuals navigating their mental health journeys. I understand that each person’s experience is unique, and my goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we will work collaboratively to explore your concerns, understand your needs, and develop an individualized treatment plan that empowers you to take steps toward healing and growth. With a blend of clinical expertise and empathy, I am here to help you find balance and restore your well-being.
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As a highly experienced Psychiatric and Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in addressing the mental health needs of diverse populations, including adults and seniors with moderate to severe conditions. My ideal clients are individuals seeking compassionate, evidence-based care for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, dementia, and chronic pain. They need personalized treatment plans, including medication management and psychotherapy, to improve their overall well-being. My goal is to empower clients to achieve lasting mental health and quality of life.
As a highly experienced Psychiatric and Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in addressing the mental health needs of diverse populations, including adults and seniors with moderate to severe conditions. My ideal clients are individuals seeking compassionate, evidence-based care for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, dementia, and chronic pain. They need personalized treatment plans, including medication management and psychotherapy, to improve their overall well-being. My goal is to empower clients to achieve lasting mental health and quality of life.

I completed two bachelor’s degrees with honors at Grand Valley State University majoring in Biomedical Science and Nursing. I continued my education at Grand Valley State University and graduated with honors with my Doctor of Nursing Practice. I am dedicated to providing the best care possible by staying up to date on the latest evidence-based treatments and actively listening to my patients concerns. I employ a non-judgmental approach to get know my patients so we can create a treatment plan together. Populations I treat include, but are not limited to, teens-end of life, men, women, and LGBTQIA+.
I completed two bachelor’s degrees with honors at Grand Valley State University majoring in Biomedical Science and Nursing. I continued my education at Grand Valley State University and graduated with honors with my Doctor of Nursing Practice. I am dedicated to providing the best care possible by staying up to date on the latest evidence-based treatments and actively listening to my patients concerns. I employ a non-judgmental approach to get know my patients so we can create a treatment plan together. Populations I treat include, but are not limited to, teens-end of life, men, women, and LGBTQIA+.

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.

I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits.
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits.

Hello, I am Nwoko Francisca, a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a distinguished healthcare professional, I have a profound commitment to excellence with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), I have an expertise that extends beyond traditional healthcare. I take a holistic approach to the treatment of a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan with an emphasis on building strong minds. A multi-faceted approach optimizes mental health care to improve overall health and mental wellness.
Hello, I am Nwoko Francisca, a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a distinguished healthcare professional, I have a profound commitment to excellence with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), I have an expertise that extends beyond traditional healthcare. I take a holistic approach to the treatment of a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan with an emphasis on building strong minds. A multi-faceted approach optimizes mental health care to improve overall health and mental wellness.

Tiffany Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked with a variety of patient populations and have developed a broad spectrum of clinical knowledge. While non-pharmacological approaches may not be a good fit for every patient, I believe all effective treatments should be explored and patient centered. I believe Psychotropic medications and psychotherapy are a main stay treatment of mental illness. My focus is on the outpatient pharmacological treatment and assessment/evaluation of Mood Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Depression and Anxiety using the tele-psychiatry platform exclusively to provide care.
I have worked with a variety of patient populations and have developed a broad spectrum of clinical knowledge. While non-pharmacological approaches may not be a good fit for every patient, I believe all effective treatments should be explored and patient centered. I believe Psychotropic medications and psychotherapy are a main stay treatment of mental illness. My focus is on the outpatient pharmacological treatment and assessment/evaluation of Mood Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Depression and Anxiety using the tele-psychiatry platform exclusively to provide care.

Lindsay-Rose Dykema is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed her residency training at Columbia University. Lindsay-Rose is a queer psychiatrist and prison/police abolitionist who dabbles in narrative poetry and creative nonfiction. Her work has been published in psychiatric and leftist journals, poetry anthologies, and Slate Magazine. She will always offer a safe and affirming space. In her spare time, Lindsay-Rose enjoys yoga, running, writing, belting showtunes, petting cats.
Lindsay-Rose Dykema is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed her residency training at Columbia University. Lindsay-Rose is a queer psychiatrist and prison/police abolitionist who dabbles in narrative poetry and creative nonfiction. Her work has been published in psychiatric and leftist journals, poetry anthologies, and Slate Magazine. She will always offer a safe and affirming space. In her spare time, Lindsay-Rose enjoys yoga, running, writing, belting showtunes, petting cats.

You shouldn't have to wait months to see a psychiatrist or settle for a provider who's not a good fit. You deserve someone who shows you they care about your future. I have immediate openings and can meet with you virtually in the comfort of your home or office. I'll listen to your story and work to understand the important details of your situation. I like to provide an atmosphere of warmth, humor, and acceptance during your visits. Regardless of whether you've taken psychiatric meds before, I can help you examine the alternatives and decide what might be best. Medications might even assist you in reaching your therapy goals.
You shouldn't have to wait months to see a psychiatrist or settle for a provider who's not a good fit. You deserve someone who shows you they care about your future. I have immediate openings and can meet with you virtually in the comfort of your home or office. I'll listen to your story and work to understand the important details of your situation. I like to provide an atmosphere of warmth, humor, and acceptance during your visits. Regardless of whether you've taken psychiatric meds before, I can help you examine the alternatives and decide what might be best. Medications might even assist you in reaching your therapy goals.

Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.
Welcome! I'm Rebecca Greer. I am a doctoral prepared and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) (ANCC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) (AANP). I received my master's degree in nursing from the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) in 2015, my doctor of nursing practice from UDM in 2020, and my post master's certificate/degree from the University of Michigan in 2021.

VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (734) 436-2217 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (734) 436-2217 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.

I'm Joshua Fortney, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 11 years of experience. I work with individuals to manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, from depression and anxiety to ADHD, bipolar disorder, sleep issues, panic attacks, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and self-esteem challenges. I believe that everyone deserves personalized mental health care that meets them where they are.
I'm Joshua Fortney, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 11 years of experience. I work with individuals to manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, from depression and anxiety to ADHD, bipolar disorder, sleep issues, panic attacks, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and self-esteem challenges. I believe that everyone deserves personalized mental health care that meets them where they are.

Carlton Cain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 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.

If you are feeling down, overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself, have a hard time concentrating, wondering what needs to be done. Chichi believes in helping you figure it out and will work with you to plan the best care that suits you. I am a mental health nurse practitioner and I provide medication management for various mental health conditions. I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.
If you are feeling down, overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself, have a hard time concentrating, wondering what needs to be done. Chichi believes in helping you figure it out and will work with you to plan the best care that suits you. I am a mental health nurse practitioner and I provide medication management for various mental health conditions. I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.

See new patient openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. My focus is on ADHD, mood swings, anxiety, depression, and complex PTSD. I see ages 8 and up. I look beyond symptoms, and the usual 20 medications, to assess for underlying causes of difficulty. Neurobiologically, this may include lab work to assess nutritional status, genetic testing, lifestyle factors, and often missed underlying medical conditions.
See new patient openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. My focus is on ADHD, mood swings, anxiety, depression, and complex PTSD. I see ages 8 and up. I look beyond symptoms, and the usual 20 medications, to assess for underlying causes of difficulty. Neurobiologically, this may include lab work to assess nutritional status, genetic testing, lifestyle factors, and often missed underlying medical conditions.

I am a queer prison/police abolitionist. I enjoy working with folx with neurodivergent conditions and marginalized identities. I treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD, using both narrative and somatic approaches. I love helping others build daily wellness practices, including mindfulness meditation, yoga, creative expression, and self-compassion.
I am a queer prison/police abolitionist. I enjoy working with folx with neurodivergent conditions and marginalized identities. I treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD, using both narrative and somatic approaches. I love helping others build daily wellness practices, including mindfulness meditation, yoga, creative expression, and self-compassion.

Dr. Rohan Kedar was born and raised in Southeastern Michigan. He earned his Bachelor s degree at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. He then attended Western Michigan Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine in Kalamazoo, MI and graduated as part of its inaugural class. He completed his psychiatry residency at Trinity Health St. Mary Mercy in Livonia, MI. Dr. Kedar enjoys learning about his patients stories and integrating psychotherapy with medication management. In his spare time, he enjoys getting involved with his church, watching football, and engaging in multiple different fandoms, such as Star Wars and Marvel.
Dr. Rohan Kedar was born and raised in Southeastern Michigan. He earned his Bachelor s degree at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. He then attended Western Michigan Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine in Kalamazoo, MI and graduated as part of its inaugural class. He completed his psychiatry residency at Trinity Health St. Mary Mercy in Livonia, MI. Dr. Kedar enjoys learning about his patients stories and integrating psychotherapy with medication management. In his spare time, he enjoys getting involved with his church, watching football, and engaging in multiple different fandoms, such as Star Wars and Marvel.

Addiction Treatment Westlake Consultation Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Not accepting new clients
Addiction Treatment Specialist at Westlake enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. We are also advocates for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. We are dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. We are passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.
Addiction Treatment Specialist at Westlake enjoy helping clients through their struggles with addiction. Intensive therapy and Medication Assisted Treatment are the tools utilized to helps assist you through your recovery. We are also advocates for holistic health care and have a passion for individually focused patient care. We are dedicated to providing the best patient care possible by listening to my patients, employing motivational interviewing techniques, and providing multiple proven treatment options. We are passionate about whole body wellness, and how mental health plays a role in the quality of your life.

Hello, My name is Ammar Ali, I am a Medical Doctor and board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience working in hospitals across the United States. I graduated from Kufa University College of Medicine in Iraq in 2003 and finished psychiatry training in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Sanford School of Medicine University of South Dakota in 2014.
Hello, My name is Ammar Ali, I am a Medical Doctor and board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience working in hospitals across the United States. I graduated from Kufa University College of Medicine in Iraq in 2003 and finished psychiatry training in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Sanford School of Medicine University of South Dakota in 2014.

My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their mental health but is motivated to make a change. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders, often feel misunderstood or unsupported. I provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can express yourself openly, along with guidance and personalized strategies to manage your symptoms. I will help you in seeking clarity, emotional balance, and practical tools to improve your daily lives. My goal is to help you feel empowered and resilient, build healthier relationships, and regain a sense of purpose and control.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their mental health but is motivated to make a change. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders, often feel misunderstood or unsupported. I provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can express yourself openly, along with guidance and personalized strategies to manage your symptoms. I will help you in seeking clarity, emotional balance, and practical tools to improve your daily lives. My goal is to help you feel empowered and resilient, build healthier relationships, and regain a sense of purpose and control.
See more therapy options for Trenton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Trenton, MI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Trenton, MI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Other |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Trenton, MI see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Trenton?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.