Psychiatrists in Washtenaw County, MI

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Photo of Louis Feurino, MD, Psychiatrist
Louis Feurino
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Good therapy helps relieve the symptoms of the moment. Great therapy helps you change yourself so that you're more adaptive to whatever comes your way; it makes you wise. Most treatments are too narrow in their scope and only do part of the job. I specialize in using insight oriented psychotherapy to help people -- especially those who haven't gotten all they needed from attempts at standard treatment. With courage and time, the people I work with make dramatic, lasting changes. They feel and do better in every area of life. I'm a very highly rated provider because I know how to do what works and help you see the bigger picture.
Good therapy helps relieve the symptoms of the moment. Great therapy helps you change yourself so that you're more adaptive to whatever comes your way; it makes you wise. Most treatments are too narrow in their scope and only do part of the job. I specialize in using insight oriented psychotherapy to help people -- especially those who haven't gotten all they needed from attempts at standard treatment. With courage and time, the people I work with make dramatic, lasting changes. They feel and do better in every area of life. I'm a very highly rated provider because I know how to do what works and help you see the bigger picture.
(313) 486-9713 View (313) 486-9713
Photo of Luke Krupski, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Luke Krupski
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
About me: I am a NCCPA Certified Physician Assistant who graduated from Concordia University, Ann Arbor with a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies.
About me: I am a NCCPA Certified Physician Assistant who graduated from Concordia University, Ann Arbor with a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies.
(734) 259-7351 View (734) 259-7351
Photo of Brian Phillips, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brian Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
See openings and book an intake (I usually have openings within a week) at AnnArborPsych.com. I specialize in ADHD, a range of anxiety disorders, mood, and impulsivity. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I think of myself as a passionate nurse, care-giver, and patient advocate first, and a prescriber second. Good mental health care begins with listening to the patient. I have engaged in a considerable amount of additional training and supervision after completing my specialty in psychiatry. For years I have worked along side Dr. Akash Kumar MD and we are both passionate about staying on the cutting edge of psychiatric medicine.
See openings and book an intake (I usually have openings within a week) at AnnArborPsych.com. I specialize in ADHD, a range of anxiety disorders, mood, and impulsivity. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I think of myself as a passionate nurse, care-giver, and patient advocate first, and a prescriber second. Good mental health care begins with listening to the patient. I have engaged in a considerable amount of additional training and supervision after completing my specialty in psychiatry. For years I have worked along side Dr. Akash Kumar MD and we are both passionate about staying on the cutting edge of psychiatric medicine.
(734) 315-2256 View (734) 315-2256
Photo of Dennis Lin, PMHNP, -BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dennis Lin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, DNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
I am Licensed and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. At EZ TelePsych we believe that every patient deserves the best mental health care, and it's our job to deliver it! We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to provide research-driven holistic psychiatric care. www.eztelepsych.com for more information and to book an appointment.
I am Licensed and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. At EZ TelePsych we believe that every patient deserves the best mental health care, and it's our job to deliver it! We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to provide research-driven holistic psychiatric care. www.eztelepsych.com for more information and to book an appointment.
(248) 983-1070 View (248) 983-1070
Photo of Norman Emil Alessi, MD, DFAPA, FAACAP, Psychiatrist
Norman Emil Alessi
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, FAACAP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Psychiatry can be much more than merely the identification of a mental disorder and the prescription of psychotropic medications or other interventions to manage the symptoms of the condition. Over the past 40 years I’ve developed an understanding of the resulting functional difficulties that can arise when these conditions are present, tools to characterize them and strategies to treat or meliorate them. My goal and a mission of the Center and its staff is to identify and treat these conditions using a wide range of modalities and to improve a broad range of functioning from executive functioning to social skill functioning.
Psychiatry can be much more than merely the identification of a mental disorder and the prescription of psychotropic medications or other interventions to manage the symptoms of the condition. Over the past 40 years I’ve developed an understanding of the resulting functional difficulties that can arise when these conditions are present, tools to characterize them and strategies to treat or meliorate them. My goal and a mission of the Center and its staff is to identify and treat these conditions using a wide range of modalities and to improve a broad range of functioning from executive functioning to social skill functioning.
(734) 807-4446 View (734) 807-4446
Photo of Steven L Gotlib - Steven L. Gotlib MD, PC, MD, Psychiatrist
Steven L. Gotlib MD, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new patients and can schedule within a week. Emotional stress, anxiety, and depression can cause intense suffering. Seeking help is the first step toward controlling your life. Anxiety and depression can interfere with enjoying your family and friends and performing your best at work or school. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and other emotional problems. I use an integrated approach that uses psychotherapy and, if necessary, medication. I have helped many patients improve their lives while minimizing the need for medications.
I am currently accepting new patients and can schedule within a week. Emotional stress, anxiety, and depression can cause intense suffering. Seeking help is the first step toward controlling your life. Anxiety and depression can interfere with enjoying your family and friends and performing your best at work or school. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and other emotional problems. I use an integrated approach that uses psychotherapy and, if necessary, medication. I have helped many patients improve their lives while minimizing the need for medications.
(734) 931-6688 View (734) 931-6688
Photo of Latoya T Beard, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Latoya T Beard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
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 Robert Francis Slattery, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Francis Slattery
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I am a licensed MD and psychiatrist in the private practice of psychotherapy and psychiatry in Ann Arbor, Michigan with a special interest in Jungian psychotherapy. Services offered include psychotherapy, psychiatric diagnosis, and treatment. With more than 30 years in private practice, I have worked with people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities who are faced with serious challenges or just looking to live life in a better way, do the things they want to do and enjoy life more.
I am a licensed MD and psychiatrist in the private practice of psychotherapy and psychiatry in Ann Arbor, Michigan with a special interest in Jungian psychotherapy. Services offered include psychotherapy, psychiatric diagnosis, and treatment. With more than 30 years in private practice, I have worked with people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities who are faced with serious challenges or just looking to live life in a better way, do the things they want to do and enjoy life more.
(734) 224-5347 View (734) 224-5347
Photo of Philip Saragoza, MD, Psychiatrist
Philip Saragoza
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Not accepting new clients
I practice adult psychiatry, including medication management and psychotherapy, tailored to individual needs. I have particular expertise in working with individuals experiencing significant loss, life changes, and problems in the workplace. Prior to starting my practice, I spent several years assessing and treating individuals with legal problems and a variety of mental health issues, including extensive past trauma. I enjoy helping people to improve their quality of life through facilitating introspection and developing insight and skills for managing emotional issues.
I practice adult psychiatry, including medication management and psychotherapy, tailored to individual needs. I have particular expertise in working with individuals experiencing significant loss, life changes, and problems in the workplace. Prior to starting my practice, I spent several years assessing and treating individuals with legal problems and a variety of mental health issues, including extensive past trauma. I enjoy helping people to improve their quality of life through facilitating introspection and developing insight and skills for managing emotional issues.
(734) 530-3263 View (734) 530-3263
Barry M Miller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Most people, whether they have a psychiatric illness or not, need psychotherapy, at some point in their lives. I'm here to help determine what's wrong and how to best help. If a medicine is helpful, I'm trained to prescribe it. In most situations, medicine, alone, is not enough to help people disentangle themselves from the feelings, thoughts, or behaviors that have interfered with their functioning or caused such discomfort. Problematic patterns have developed over a long time, but for 'good reasons'. Until we know why, we're unlikely to change them.
Most people, whether they have a psychiatric illness or not, need psychotherapy, at some point in their lives. I'm here to help determine what's wrong and how to best help. If a medicine is helpful, I'm trained to prescribe it. In most situations, medicine, alone, is not enough to help people disentangle themselves from the feelings, thoughts, or behaviors that have interfered with their functioning or caused such discomfort. Problematic patterns have developed over a long time, but for 'good reasons'. Until we know why, we're unlikely to change them.
(734) 720-4895 View (734) 720-4895
Photo of Leanna Miller, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leanna Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I completed undergrad at Northern Michigan University in 2011 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I then graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2016 with my Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner specialty. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health conditions in all age groups while working in a family practice setting.
I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I completed undergrad at Northern Michigan University in 2011 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I then graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2016 with my Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner specialty. I have experience in treating a wide variety of mental health conditions in all age groups while working in a family practice setting.
(734) 206-7103 View (734) 206-7103
Photo of Priscilla Jimenez, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Priscilla Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Michigan. I completed my Masters of Nursing Education from Oakland University and received my Post Master’s Certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University. My personal passion and experience, combined with over 12 years of bedside Nursing experience has led me to the field of Psychiatry . My mission is to aid clients along their individual journey of Mental Health
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Michigan. I completed my Masters of Nursing Education from Oakland University and received my Post Master’s Certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Maryville University. My personal passion and experience, combined with over 12 years of bedside Nursing experience has led me to the field of Psychiatry . My mission is to aid clients along their individual journey of Mental Health
(734) 977-1182 View (734) 977-1182
Photo of Thomas L Atkins, MD, Psychiatrist
Thomas L Atkins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Waitlist for new clients
I approach my work with an empathetic and non-judgmental mindset and this allows me to connect with my clients in a way that is based in collaboration and compassion. I use psychotherapy, insight oriented work, mindfulness, life-style changes, and medication to create an integrative treatment plan for each client. I specialize in depression, bipolar illness, ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders, and trauma. I am ready to learn about you and work together to help you meet your goals. Reach out so that we can get started!
I approach my work with an empathetic and non-judgmental mindset and this allows me to connect with my clients in a way that is based in collaboration and compassion. I use psychotherapy, insight oriented work, mindfulness, life-style changes, and medication to create an integrative treatment plan for each client. I specialize in depression, bipolar illness, ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders, and trauma. I am ready to learn about you and work together to help you meet your goals. Reach out so that we can get started!
(734) 471-5040 x101 View (734) 471-5040 x101
Photo of Norman Emil Alessi, MD, Psychiatrist
Norman Emil Alessi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Immediate openings for children, adolescents and adults. Diagnostic and treatment services for the following conditions: complex trauma, DID, dissociation, polyvagal dysregulation, ASD - men and women, difficult to treat depression and anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorders. No case too complex. Second opinions. Over 45 years of experience.
Immediate openings for children, adolescents and adults. Diagnostic and treatment services for the following conditions: complex trauma, DID, dissociation, polyvagal dysregulation, ASD - men and women, difficult to treat depression and anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorders. No case too complex. Second opinions. Over 45 years of experience.
(734) 361-1088 View (734) 361-1088
Photo of Akash Kumar - Dr. Akash Kumar MD - Arbor Video Psych and ADHD, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Akash Kumar MD - Arbor Video Psych and ADHD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. Special interest in ADHD, anxiety, mood, and OCD. Therapeutic time cannot be rushed. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist, I address psychological AND medical factors by looking beyond the usual 20 psychiatric medications to investigate the underlying biological or psychological issues. Investigating may entail (based on current research): laboratory panels looking for chronic nutritional deficiencies; genetic testing (to predict what meds/supplements can help); brain scans; neuro exam; deeper forms of talk therapy
See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. Special interest in ADHD, anxiety, mood, and OCD. Therapeutic time cannot be rushed. As a medical doctor and psychiatrist, I address psychological AND medical factors by looking beyond the usual 20 psychiatric medications to investigate the underlying biological or psychological issues. Investigating may entail (based on current research): laboratory panels looking for chronic nutritional deficiencies; genetic testing (to predict what meds/supplements can help); brain scans; neuro exam; deeper forms of talk therapy
(517) 833-4110 View (517) 833-4110
Photo of Mutiu O Balogun, PMHNP, BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mutiu O Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, my greatest passion is caring for all who are struggling with mental health, young or old. I believe in meeting each person where they are, offering compassionate evidence-based care, with a holistic approach. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, or any other mental health condition, I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing, growth, and a successful fulfilling life. I am just a text away!
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, my greatest passion is caring for all who are struggling with mental health, young or old. I believe in meeting each person where they are, offering compassionate evidence-based care, with a holistic approach. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, or any other mental health condition, I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing, growth, and a successful fulfilling life. I am just a text away!
(248) 983-1070 View (248) 983-1070
Photo of Dwarakanath Rao, MD, Psychiatrist
Dwarakanath Rao
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
The goal of good therapy is to find ways to love, work, and play through self-understanding. Taking the first step is often the hardest. I offer a safe and confidential forum for self-learning at a pace and manner best suited to you. My training and experience spans psychodynamic therapy, psychoanalysis, overseeing a large outpatient psychiatric clinic, training of residents and interns, and psychoanalytic education and supervision. I have been privileged to assist people for over 30 years. I am on professional committees, and teach at the University of Michigan and at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.
The goal of good therapy is to find ways to love, work, and play through self-understanding. Taking the first step is often the hardest. I offer a safe and confidential forum for self-learning at a pace and manner best suited to you. My training and experience spans psychodynamic therapy, psychoanalysis, overseeing a large outpatient psychiatric clinic, training of residents and interns, and psychoanalytic education and supervision. I have been privileged to assist people for over 30 years. I am on professional committees, and teach at the University of Michigan and at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.
(734) 329-5251 View (734) 329-5251
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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 (734) 436-2217 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 (734) 436-2217 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(734) 436-2217 View (734) 436-2217
Photo of Kristi Ramirez - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Nicole Jones, Dr Lemmen 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 ongoing collaboration with you to find the right dose to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling may also be needed and we collaborate with our Best Fit Counseling specialists to meet your needs.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Nicole Jones, Dr Lemmen 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 ongoing collaboration with you to find the right dose to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling may also be needed and we collaborate with our Best Fit Counseling specialists to meet your needs.
(734) 294-5918 View (734) 294-5918
Photo of Carter Doyle, MSN, PMHNP, CCISM, EMT-P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carter Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CCISM, EMT-P
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I believe in caring for the whole person. I do this through an Internal Family Systems therapy lens, assessing, diagnosing, and caring for mental health concerns. Sometimes this means prescribing medication, and other times it means working together in psychotherapy to find the roots of pain.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I believe in caring for the whole person. I do this through an Internal Family Systems therapy lens, assessing, diagnosing, and caring for mental health concerns. Sometimes this means prescribing medication, and other times it means working together in psychotherapy to find the roots of pain.
(734) 259-7856 View (734) 259-7856
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See more therapy options for Washtenaw County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Washtenaw County, MI

100+

Average cost per session

$292

Psychiatrists in Washtenaw County, MI who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
87% Anxiety
71% Medication Management
68% ADHD
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% Trauma and PTSD
64% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Aetna
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Washtenaw County, MI see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

56% Female
44% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Washtenaw County?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.