Psychiatrists in West Bloomfield, MI

Photo of Bruce Hamby - Forum Health, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Forum Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Ketamine Therapy allows you to work through subconscious, repressed feelings that underlie unproductive behavior patterns, poor mental and emotional functioning, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. This treatment is ideal for anyone who wishes to experience lasting, full mind and body healing for treatment-resistant mood disorders, PTSD, and chronic pain.
Ketamine Therapy allows you to work through subconscious, repressed feelings that underlie unproductive behavior patterns, poor mental and emotional functioning, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. This treatment is ideal for anyone who wishes to experience lasting, full mind and body healing for treatment-resistant mood disorders, PTSD, and chronic pain.
(248) 870-3078 View (248) 870-3078
Photo of Kevin Sethi - Dr. Kevin Sethi- Progressive Wellness Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kevin Sethi- Progressive Wellness Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Dr. Sethi is accepting new patients located in California for telehealth appointments. Dr. Sethi completed his specialized psychiatric residency at the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, MI. As an interventionist, he has a sub-specialized experience in the latest evidence-based treatment modalities including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine. He focuses in collaborative work with patients and providing ample time to make sure everything is clear and transparent. His goal is to help improve the quality of life for all his patients with a focus on preventive measures as well.
Dr. Sethi is accepting new patients located in California for telehealth appointments. Dr. Sethi completed his specialized psychiatric residency at the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, MI. As an interventionist, he has a sub-specialized experience in the latest evidence-based treatment modalities including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine. He focuses in collaborative work with patients and providing ample time to make sure everything is clear and transparent. His goal is to help improve the quality of life for all his patients with a focus on preventive measures as well.
(248) 985-7225 View (248) 985-7225
Photo of Julie Kuebler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Kuebler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48322  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 20 years of experience. I have a broad range of experiences, including both inpatient and outpatient care, and have worked in various settings involving medication management of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, women's health, adolescent psychiatry, crisis management, care management, geriatric psychiatry, and psychology. In my role as an NP, I have also developed programs for self-management of chronic illness and depression disease management.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 20 years of experience. I have a broad range of experiences, including both inpatient and outpatient care, and have worked in various settings involving medication management of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, women's health, adolescent psychiatry, crisis management, care management, geriatric psychiatry, and psychology. In my role as an NP, I have also developed programs for self-management of chronic illness and depression disease management.
(248) 453-9247 View (248) 453-9247
Photo of Michael D Colman, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael D Colman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
As a psychiatrist, child/adolescent psychiatrist, and psychoanalyst, my viewpoint is that emotional disturbances have as their basis the way a person thinks and feels. In treatment situations, I attempt to elaborate and elucidate the way a person thinks in order to help that person see the connections between their thinking and behavior, and what troubles that person. The symptoms which a person presents with help to lead us in the direction of discovering what the underlying problem is. It is a truism that one needs to know a problem is present in order to be able to do something about it.
As a psychiatrist, child/adolescent psychiatrist, and psychoanalyst, my viewpoint is that emotional disturbances have as their basis the way a person thinks and feels. In treatment situations, I attempt to elaborate and elucidate the way a person thinks in order to help that person see the connections between their thinking and behavior, and what troubles that person. The symptoms which a person presents with help to lead us in the direction of discovering what the underlying problem is. It is a truism that one needs to know a problem is present in order to be able to do something about it.
(248) 688-0813 View (248) 688-0813
Photo of Lila Massoumi - Michigan Integrative Holistic Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Michigan Integrative Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
You deserve comprehensive and individualized psychiatric care! What is Integrative Psychiatry? While most psychiatric practices rely heavily on psychiatric medications (with or without counseling) we offer additional paths to wellness, including recommendations on specific nutritional supplementation and herbs, lifestyle modifications (e.g. mind-body practices) and electromagnetic treatments (e.g. Bright-light therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder). OUR GOALS: Accurate diagnosis, custom-tailored treatments and excellent service.
You deserve comprehensive and individualized psychiatric care! What is Integrative Psychiatry? While most psychiatric practices rely heavily on psychiatric medications (with or without counseling) we offer additional paths to wellness, including recommendations on specific nutritional supplementation and herbs, lifestyle modifications (e.g. mind-body practices) and electromagnetic treatments (e.g. Bright-light therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder). OUR GOALS: Accurate diagnosis, custom-tailored treatments and excellent service.
(248) 419-2151 View (248) 419-2151
Photo of Bruce L Roth, DO, Psychiatrist
Bruce L Roth
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48324
Dr. Roth has over 25 years of experience as a board certified adult and child psychiatrist. He is also an adult psychoanalyst affiliated with the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute and a Qualified Medical Evaluator in psychiatry for injured workers in the State of California. At CPS we have psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurse practitioner professionals providing the highest quality of mental health care to our clients. At CPS we offer a range of treatment from symptom focused counseling and medications to deeper psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis.
Dr. Roth has over 25 years of experience as a board certified adult and child psychiatrist. He is also an adult psychoanalyst affiliated with the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute and a Qualified Medical Evaluator in psychiatry for injured workers in the State of California. At CPS we have psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurse practitioner professionals providing the highest quality of mental health care to our clients. At CPS we offer a range of treatment from symptom focused counseling and medications to deeper psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis.
(810) 309-8989 View (810) 309-8989
Photo of Hassan Almaat - Advanced Psychiatric Services, pllc, MD, Psychiatrist
Advanced Psychiatric Services, pllc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48325
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support. Recently and in keeping with the advances in Psychiatry, we added TMS clinic and Spravato clinic to help our patient with severe resistant depression.
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support. Recently and in keeping with the advances in Psychiatry, we added TMS clinic and Spravato clinic to help our patient with severe resistant depression.
(810) 370-0145 View (810) 370-0145
Photo of Nazia S Adil - Alliance Behavioral Health Specialists, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Alliance Behavioral Health Specialists, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
We provide medication management and therapy to people who are struggling with depression, anxiety , bipolar disorder etc. If you are struggling with insomnia, stress , feeling overwhelmed, there is help. Medical issues affect mental health directly and indirectly. Our experienced clinicians are able to provide comprehensive treatment. We also started treating patients with TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), which is proven to be the most advanced treatment for depression.
We provide medication management and therapy to people who are struggling with depression, anxiety , bipolar disorder etc. If you are struggling with insomnia, stress , feeling overwhelmed, there is help. Medical issues affect mental health directly and indirectly. Our experienced clinicians are able to provide comprehensive treatment. We also started treating patients with TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), which is proven to be the most advanced treatment for depression.
(248) 934-0274 View (248) 934-0274
Photo of Craig Lemmen - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
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 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 collaboration with our counseling specialists when needed to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited now and we are unable to work with patients working with other counseling 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 NP and I 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 collaboration with our counseling specialists when needed to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited now and we are unable to work with patients working with other counseling providers.
(734) 346-7654 View (734) 346-7654
Photo of Jennifer Wims-Madden - Healing Minds Oasis, LLC, DBH, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healing Minds Oasis, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DBH, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48324  (Online Only)
My practice philosophy centers on treating the whole person through a holistic, compassionate, and understanding approach. I believe in providing individualized, comprehensive care that addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of psychiatric conditions. My dedication to holistic care is demonstrated through integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being into treatment plans. My approach to treatment is rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that individuals feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey.
My practice philosophy centers on treating the whole person through a holistic, compassionate, and understanding approach. I believe in providing individualized, comprehensive care that addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of psychiatric conditions. My dedication to holistic care is demonstrated through integrating physical, emotional, and social well-being into treatment plans. My approach to treatment is rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that individuals feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey.
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Photo of Chinwe Ohaka - Hope Wellness Center LLC, PMHNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hope Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323  (Online Only)
My ideal client may be experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. They might be navigating difficult life transitions, managing stress, or struggling with relationship issues. Their primary needs include effective symptom management, emotional support, and strategies to enhance daily functioning and overall well-being. Their goals often involve finding relief from distressing symptoms, improving quality of life, and developing resilience to face life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
My ideal client may be experiencing a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. They might be navigating difficult life transitions, managing stress, or struggling with relationship issues. Their primary needs include effective symptom management, emotional support, and strategies to enhance daily functioning and overall well-being. Their goals often involve finding relief from distressing symptoms, improving quality of life, and developing resilience to face life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
(313) 362-6345 View (313) 362-6345
Photo of Ashley McGovern, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley McGovern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Hello! I’m Ashley, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with specialized expertise in perinatal mental health and child psychiatry. I am deeply passionate about supporting families during some of life’s most transformative seasons.
Hello! I’m Ashley, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with specialized expertise in perinatal mental health and child psychiatry. I am deeply passionate about supporting families during some of life’s most transformative seasons.
(734) 251-5091 View (734) 251-5091
Photo of Natalie Poole, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalie Poole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Are you stressed? Has life left you feeling drained and overwhelmed? Do you experience days of depression where leaving the house feels insurmountable? Do you long to find inner PEACE and quiet those negative thoughts? My staff and I work to help you restore emotional stability and wellness in your life. Together we create goal directed coping skills and strategies that work to create balance. We are solution centric, and compassionate.
Are you stressed? Has life left you feeling drained and overwhelmed? Do you experience days of depression where leaving the house feels insurmountable? Do you long to find inner PEACE and quiet those negative thoughts? My staff and I work to help you restore emotional stability and wellness in your life. Together we create goal directed coping skills and strategies that work to create balance. We are solution centric, and compassionate.
(248) 780-7060 View (248) 780-7060
Photo of Keisha Malone - Perception Ketamine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Perception Ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
We are a ketamine clinic, providing hope for those struggling with mental health.
We are a ketamine clinic, providing hope for those struggling with mental health.
(313) 209-9813 View (313) 209-9813
Photo of Lisa Dukat, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Dukat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Accepting New Patients- Do you need a prescriber who won't rush your appointments and is genuinely interested in getting to know you and your history? I am here to take the time to listen to your unique story and work together with you, so you struggle less, and enjoy life more. I'm Lisa, an experienced and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I'm dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to your needs. I specialize in treating depressive, bipolar, anxiety, and trauma disorders.
Accepting New Patients- Do you need a prescriber who won't rush your appointments and is genuinely interested in getting to know you and your history? I am here to take the time to listen to your unique story and work together with you, so you struggle less, and enjoy life more. I'm Lisa, an experienced and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I'm dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to your needs. I specialize in treating depressive, bipolar, anxiety, and trauma disorders.
(586) 846-4835 View (586) 846-4835
Photo of Austin Powell, PAC, Physician Assistant
Austin Powell
Physician Assistant, PAC
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
LGBTQ allied - I am gay myself. See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUSES: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Impulse Control, PTSD. All of us at Arbor Psych go beyond the usual old 15 psych meds and utilize newer meds and other treatments. Our approach involves looking at root causes rather than only symptoms. We look for nutritional deficits, metabolic abnormalities, subtle psychological trauma, hidden sleep issues, brain injury, and advanced thyroid testing. If nothing has helped, please consider us. I can't emphasize enough that our first 3 priorities are diagnosis, diagnosis, and diagnosis.
LGBTQ allied - I am gay myself. See openings and book online at AnnArborPsych.com. FOCUSES: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Impulse Control, PTSD. All of us at Arbor Psych go beyond the usual old 15 psych meds and utilize newer meds and other treatments. Our approach involves looking at root causes rather than only symptoms. We look for nutritional deficits, metabolic abnormalities, subtle psychological trauma, hidden sleep issues, brain injury, and advanced thyroid testing. If nothing has helped, please consider us. I can't emphasize enough that our first 3 priorities are diagnosis, diagnosis, and diagnosis.
(810) 255-4089 View (810) 255-4089
Photo of Dr. Jimmy Metellus - Fulfilled Care Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Fulfilled Care Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
At Fulfilled Care Psychiatry, I, Dr. Jimmy Metellus, am a compassionate psychiatrist providing a supportive space for individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and life transitions. I specialize in evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique needs, guiding you on a transformative journey towards emotional stability, improved relationships, resilience, self-discovery, and functional daily living. My role is to empower you, ensuring mental health isn't a barrier but a catalyst for growth. Together, we navigate complexities, work towards your goals, fostering lasting positive change.
At Fulfilled Care Psychiatry, I, Dr. Jimmy Metellus, am a compassionate psychiatrist providing a supportive space for individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and life transitions. I specialize in evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique needs, guiding you on a transformative journey towards emotional stability, improved relationships, resilience, self-discovery, and functional daily living. My role is to empower you, ensuring mental health isn't a barrier but a catalyst for growth. Together, we navigate complexities, work towards your goals, fostering lasting positive change.
(248) 289-8874 View (248) 289-8874
Photo of Mauran Sivananthan - Mauran Sivananthan, DO, PLLC, DO, Psychiatrist
Mauran Sivananthan, DO, PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
I am a dual board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, and I specialize in treating a range of disorders including ADHD, behavioral problems, anxiety, Autism, intellectual disabilities, men's health, and mental health issues in athletes. My goal with every patient is to provide up to date, evidence based, individualized, supportive, and collaborative care. Additionally, I am a sports psychiatrist with extensive experience working with athletes of all levels. I am currently the team psychiatrist for the Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers, and Detroit Pistons.
I am a dual board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, and I specialize in treating a range of disorders including ADHD, behavioral problems, anxiety, Autism, intellectual disabilities, men's health, and mental health issues in athletes. My goal with every patient is to provide up to date, evidence based, individualized, supportive, and collaborative care. Additionally, I am a sports psychiatrist with extensive experience working with athletes of all levels. I am currently the team psychiatrist for the Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers, and Detroit Pistons.
(734) 428-3660 View (734) 428-3660

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Raji George, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Raji George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Keego Harbor, MI 48320
Raji George is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan and is and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She originally obtained her Bachelor of science degree in Nursing(BSN) from India. She has the training and experience in diagnosing and, treating patients across the life span for all primary care and mental health conditions(anxiety, depression, PTSD/ trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder).
Raji George is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan and is and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She originally obtained her Bachelor of science degree in Nursing(BSN) from India. She has the training and experience in diagnosing and, treating patients across the life span for all primary care and mental health conditions(anxiety, depression, PTSD/ trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder).
(248) 773-4598 View (248) 773-4598
Photo of Dr. Iyantta S. Howell - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Keego Harbor, MI 48320
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 300-2302 View (844) 300-2302

See more therapy options for West Bloomfield

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in West Bloomfield, MI

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in West Bloomfield, MI who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
94% Depression
78% Bipolar Disorder
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Medication Management
61% ADHD

Average years in practice

21 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
93% Aetna
71% Blue Care Network

How Psychiatrists in West Bloomfield, MI see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

57% Female
43% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in West Bloomfield?

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.