Psychiatrists in Warren, MI

Photo of Shiba L Nixon, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shiba L Nixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Warren, MI 48093
My name is Shiba Nixon. Graduate of Wayne State University as a Psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have over 12 years in the psychiatric field. I have worked with patient between the ages of 5 years old - 70 years old. I have helped patients with various mental health diagnoses. My goal is to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
My name is Shiba Nixon. Graduate of Wayne State University as a Psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have over 12 years in the psychiatric field. I have worked with patient between the ages of 5 years old - 70 years old. I have helped patients with various mental health diagnoses. My goal is to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
(586) 788-0286 View (586) 788-0286
Photo of Howard Chang, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Howard Chang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warren, MI 48093
Howard is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at New Oakland Family Centers. For more than 30 years, New Oakland has been Michigan’s most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive service from New Oakland every year. In addition to outpatient services, we offer PHP level of care. Children, adolescents and adult patients participate in age specific groups during the day, and depending on the severity of their circumstances, will attend sessions either three or five days a week. The average length of stay is 7-10 days.
Howard is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at New Oakland Family Centers. For more than 30 years, New Oakland has been Michigan’s most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive service from New Oakland every year. In addition to outpatient services, we offer PHP level of care. Children, adolescents and adult patients participate in age specific groups during the day, and depending on the severity of their circumstances, will attend sessions either three or five days a week. The average length of stay is 7-10 days.
(586) 460-4310 View (586) 460-4310
Photo of Dr. Natalie Sadik, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Natalie Sadik
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Warren, MI 48092  (Online Only)
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits.
I am a graduate from the Wayne State University/DMC General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma disorder. My treatment modalities include medication management and supportive therapy. Our sessions will be held over video visits.
(517) 550-5430 View (517) 550-5430
Photo of Mayche Vang-Kue, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mayche Vang-Kue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warren, MI 48093
Dr. Vang-Kue is a bilingual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, fluent in both English and Hmong. She specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing various mental health disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan's most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive more than 600,000 points of service from New Oakland yearly.
Dr. Vang-Kue is a bilingual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, fluent in both English and Hmong. She specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing various mental health disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan's most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services. Today, more than 30,000 people across our state receive more than 600,000 points of service from New Oakland yearly.
(586) 519-6771 View (586) 519-6771
Photo of Victoria Lane, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Lane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warren, MI 48093  (Online Only)
My name is Victoria Lane, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
My name is Victoria Lane, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
(904) 822-7235 View (904) 822-7235
Photo of Keyana Collins, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keyana Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CCM
Verified Verified
Warren, MI 48093  (Online Only)
My name is Keyana Collins, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CCM, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
My name is Keyana Collins, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CCM, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to adults.
(904) 944-5136 View (904) 944-5136
Photo of Patti Tieman, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patti Tieman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warren, MI 48089
Maybe you’ve had psychiatric services before, but they didn’t help. You felt rushed and weren’t able to explain your situation and how it was affecting your ability to function and have a life you could enjoy. Maybe the meds weren’t working, but your prescriber didn’t want to make changes. Many of my patients come to me when they haven’t been able to find any lasting improvement. Some turn to substances to self-medicate and that gets out of hand and becomes another problem to deal with. If this sounds familiar, you need to know that this can be a typical starting point prior to treatment that works!
Maybe you’ve had psychiatric services before, but they didn’t help. You felt rushed and weren’t able to explain your situation and how it was affecting your ability to function and have a life you could enjoy. Maybe the meds weren’t working, but your prescriber didn’t want to make changes. Many of my patients come to me when they haven’t been able to find any lasting improvement. Some turn to substances to self-medicate and that gets out of hand and becomes another problem to deal with. If this sounds familiar, you need to know that this can be a typical starting point prior to treatment that works!
(248) 951-9893 View (248) 951-9893
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Warren, MI 48093
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. 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 (313) 217-3121 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. 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 (313) 217-3121 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(313) 217-3121 View (313) 217-3121
Photo of Monday Ogbeibor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Monday Ogbeibor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warren, MI 48089  (Online Only)
Monday Ogbeibor is a board -certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he obtains his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Western Michigan University, went to Wayne State University College of Nursing Detroit, Michigan, he graduated in 2020 with a psychiatric nurse practitioner degree. He has been practicing since 2021 providing psychiatric care across the lifespan.
Monday Ogbeibor is a board -certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he obtains his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Western Michigan University, went to Wayne State University College of Nursing Detroit, Michigan, he graduated in 2020 with a psychiatric nurse practitioner degree. He has been practicing since 2021 providing psychiatric care across the lifespan.
(269) 466-8283 View (269) 466-8283
Photo of Nilo Salavarria Elizalde, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nilo Salavarria Elizalde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warren, MI 48093  (Online Only)
(586) 500-6657 View (586) 500-6657

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Karla Jordan, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karla Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Karla Jordan is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 5 years of clinical experience in providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those seeking assistance with depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Stress management, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Karla is passionate about providing quality mental health care. Karla utilizes evidence-based practices and approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, psycho-dynamic, and mindfulness therapy. Karla utilizes a holistic approach to help achieve optimal mental health.
Karla Jordan is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 5 years of clinical experience in providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those seeking assistance with depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Stress management, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Karla is passionate about providing quality mental health care. Karla utilizes evidence-based practices and approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, psycho-dynamic, and mindfulness therapy. Karla utilizes a holistic approach to help achieve optimal mental health.
(586) 488-4015 View (586) 488-4015
Photo of Alexis Lykins, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Lykins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - Are you searching for a professional who is passionate about working collaboratively with you toward a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and helps accomplish your mental health goals? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners who provides medication consultation and management, along with other mental health services, I enjoy treating the underlying causes of symptoms and concerns, and often implement nutritional, behavioral, and lifestyle modifications as part of my practice.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - Are you searching for a professional who is passionate about working collaboratively with you toward a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and helps accomplish your mental health goals? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners who provides medication consultation and management, along with other mental health services, I enjoy treating the underlying causes of symptoms and concerns, and often implement nutritional, behavioral, and lifestyle modifications as part of my practice.
(586) 846-4835 View (586) 846-4835
Photo of Taylor Hennrick, Physician Assistant
Taylor Hennrick
Physician Assistant
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Taylor is a graduate of the Physician Assistant Program at the University of Detroit Mercy. Taylor was a collegiate athlete competing in Track & Field while majoring in Biology. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Biology and then went on to the finish his Master's Degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Taylor has worked all over Southeast Michigan providing care to individuals of all social backgrounds, ethnicities, and ages. He specializes in adult psychiatry offering psychiatric evaluations as well as psychotropic medication treatment and management.
Taylor is a graduate of the Physician Assistant Program at the University of Detroit Mercy. Taylor was a collegiate athlete competing in Track & Field while majoring in Biology. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Biology and then went on to the finish his Master's Degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Taylor has worked all over Southeast Michigan providing care to individuals of all social backgrounds, ethnicities, and ages. He specializes in adult psychiatry offering psychiatric evaluations as well as psychotropic medication treatment and management.
(734) 442-2750 View (734) 442-2750
Photo of Aaron Zalewski, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aaron Zalewski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Hello, it is an honor to be able to meet you and truly listen to your story. You are so much more than your past, your trauma, a diagnosis, or a label. Mental illness thrives in isolation, so I want to partner with you so that you feel heard. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am experienced in the evidence-based diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental illness.
Hello, it is an honor to be able to meet you and truly listen to your story. You are so much more than your past, your trauma, a diagnosis, or a label. Mental illness thrives in isolation, so I want to partner with you so that you feel heard. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am experienced in the evidence-based diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental illness.
(586) 488-4632 View (586) 488-4632
Photo of Karla Jordan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karla Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sterling Heights, MI 48314  (Online Only)
Hi ! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 7 years of clinical experience. I earned a Master’s in Nursing, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification from the University of St. Francis. My career background includes positions at various health centers and behavioral hospitals. I assist individuals with mental health disorders and help them feel their best.
Hi ! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has over 7 years of clinical experience. I earned a Master’s in Nursing, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification from the University of St. Francis. My career background includes positions at various health centers and behavioral hospitals. I assist individuals with mental health disorders and help them feel their best.
(517) 852-8916 View (517) 852-8916
Photo of Tiffany Johnson, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Eastpointe, MI 48021  (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.
(586) 333-3540 View (586) 333-3540
Photo of Orlena B Merritt-Davis, MD, Psychiatrist
Orlena B Merritt-Davis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Clinton Township, MI 48038
I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments and medication management utilizing evidence-based practices that take into consideration your specific needs and preferences. Working alongside a large team of mental health professionals at New Oakland Family Centers, I have the unique ability to access a wide range of additional specialty mental health services and expertise should the need arise. For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan's most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services.
I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments and medication management utilizing evidence-based practices that take into consideration your specific needs and preferences. Working alongside a large team of mental health professionals at New Oakland Family Centers, I have the unique ability to access a wide range of additional specialty mental health services and expertise should the need arise. For more than 30 years, New Oakland Family Centers has been Michigan's most dedicated providers of quality, compassionate, innovative mental health care and services.
(586) 281-9565 View (586) 281-9565
Photo of Craig Lemmen - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Grosse Pointe, MI 48230
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez, NP 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 or new patients who need medication for ADHD.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez, NP 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 or new patients who need medication for ADHD.
(313) 217-3190 View (313) 217-3190
Photo of DeAngella Simpson - Lifeline Medical Center - Appointments Available!, MSN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lifeline Medical Center - Appointments Available!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Sterling Heights, MI 48310
Hello! My name is DeAngella. My fellow Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and I are Accepting New Patients at Lifeline Medical Center! I love working with patients of all ages and backgrounds to meet their mental health goals and to become successful in their lives.
Hello! My name is DeAngella. My fellow Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and I are Accepting New Patients at Lifeline Medical Center! I love working with patients of all ages and backgrounds to meet their mental health goals and to become successful in their lives.
(971) 364-4124 View (971) 364-4124
Photo of Michael Tansingco, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Tansingco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
My patient goals include: Relief from Symptoms; Improved Quality of Life; Understanding and Insight; Empowerment and Control; Support and Validation; Personal Growth and Resilience; and Integration and Normalcy
My patient goals include: Relief from Symptoms; Improved Quality of Life; Understanding and Insight; Empowerment and Control; Support and Validation; Personal Growth and Resilience; and Integration and Normalcy
(313) 474-9139 View (313) 474-9139

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Warren, MI

10+

Psychiatrists in Warren, MI who prioritize treating:

70% Depression
70% Anxiety
70% Bipolar Disorder
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Trauma and PTSD
50% Sleep or Insomnia
50% Medication Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Warren, MI see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Warren?

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.