Psychiatrists in Clayton, MO

Photo of James Mikolajczak, Psychiatrist, MD
James Mikolajczak
Psychiatrist, MD
Clayton, MO 63105
I strongly believe a good psychotherapy experience is based on a good healthy connection between the patient and therapist. Within this relationship the two can both explore the internal and external world in which the patient lives. The internal world arises from both present and past experiences. An understanding of these worlds and the conflicts within these worlds, leads to an easing of the patient's symptoms and an improved resilience to handle life's events. Lasting results come gradually in psychotherapy. I offer meeting with a patient to listen and discuss one's history. I will provide my assessment of some of the important life experiences and make a recommendation of what treatment I might offer to relieve symptoms. As a physician, I offer medication management along with psychotherapy. I treat children, adolescents, and adults in psychotherapy and medical psychotherapy.
I strongly believe a good psychotherapy experience is based on a good healthy connection between the patient and therapist. Within this relationship the two can both explore the internal and external world in which the patient lives. The internal world arises from both present and past experiences. An understanding of these worlds and the conflicts within these worlds, leads to an easing of the patient's symptoms and an improved resilience to handle life's events. Lasting results come gradually in psychotherapy. I offer meeting with a patient to listen and discuss one's history. I will provide my assessment of some of the important life experiences and make a recommendation of what treatment I might offer to relieve symptoms. As a physician, I offer medication management along with psychotherapy. I treat children, adolescents, and adults in psychotherapy and medical psychotherapy.
(314) 726-1666 View (314) 726-1666
Photo of Brandyn Patel, Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C, CAQPsyc
Brandyn Patel
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C, CAQPsyc
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I'm Brandyn, a Psychiatric Physician Assistant, specializing in medication management. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, depression that makes every day feel like a battle, PTSD that haunts your peace of mind, or Borderline Personality Disorder that makes relationships and self-understanding feel like a constant challenge—I’m here to help. I understand how difficult it can be to navigate these challenges, and I want you to know that you're not alone. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can begin to explore and address the issues that are holding you back.
Hello! I'm Brandyn, a Psychiatric Physician Assistant, specializing in medication management. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, depression that makes every day feel like a battle, PTSD that haunts your peace of mind, or Borderline Personality Disorder that makes relationships and self-understanding feel like a constant challenge—I’m here to help. I understand how difficult it can be to navigate these challenges, and I want you to know that you're not alone. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can begin to explore and address the issues that are holding you back.
(573) 273-4292 View (573) 273-4292
Photo of Dr. Austin Lin, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Austin Lin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Austin Lin is a double board-certified adult and addiction psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 9 years. At the center of Dr. Lin’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust and using a collaborative approach to help patients develop an individualized and cohesive plan so that they are able to achieve their goals. Dr. Lin's practice focuses on medication management. Typically, he offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
(512) 883-4169 View (512) 883-4169
Photo of Emily Mukherji, Psychiatrist, MD
Emily Mukherji
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Emily Mukherji is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She completed medical school and psychiatry residency in Boston, MA. Emily likes to get to know her clients well and provide thoughtful psychopharmacological treatment for their psychiatric disorders. Outside of work, Emily loves reading, walking her dog, and spending time with her family.
Emily Mukherji is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She completed medical school and psychiatry residency in Boston, MA. Emily likes to get to know her clients well and provide thoughtful psychopharmacological treatment for their psychiatric disorders. Outside of work, Emily loves reading, walking her dog, and spending time with her family.
(314) 912-4869 View (314) 912-4869
Photo of Laura Kastraba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Laura Kastraba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Laura Kastraba, PMHNP, is an advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health in Missouri, dedicated to providing compassionate and collaborative care to adults and seniors. With extensive experience in crisis management and patient support, Laura offers a combination of active listening and expert guidance, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and effective treatment. Serving the communities in Missouri, she focuses on fostering a therapeutic environment where individuals feel safe to share their concerns and work towards their mental health goals.
Laura Kastraba, PMHNP, is an advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health in Missouri, dedicated to providing compassionate and collaborative care to adults and seniors. With extensive experience in crisis management and patient support, Laura offers a combination of active listening and expert guidance, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and effective treatment. Serving the communities in Missouri, she focuses on fostering a therapeutic environment where individuals feel safe to share their concerns and work towards their mental health goals.
(636) 689-2633 View (636) 689-2633
Photo of Debbie Granick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LCSW, MPH
Debbie Granick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LCSW, MPH
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Please request appts at www.commongroundpsych.com. North Carolina only. I provide medication to help you reach your mental health goals. I'm informal, non-judgmental, have no issue with bad words or loud laughs and specialize in women's mental health. Navigating a tough transition? Feel you could be happier and more fulfilled? Not quite the person you want to be? Let's work together! I provide medication (with or without counseling thrown in). I also consult with/mentor mental health providers and speak on mental health for your workplace or interest group.
Please request appts at www.commongroundpsych.com. North Carolina only. I provide medication to help you reach your mental health goals. I'm informal, non-judgmental, have no issue with bad words or loud laughs and specialize in women's mental health. Navigating a tough transition? Feel you could be happier and more fulfilled? Not quite the person you want to be? Let's work together! I provide medication (with or without counseling thrown in). I also consult with/mentor mental health providers and speak on mental health for your workplace or interest group.
(919) 729-6293 View (919) 729-6293
Photo of Tamara Runge, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tamara Runge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri.
Tamara Runge is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose passion is in providing care and treatment for adolescents and adults with a variety of mental health conditions. Her goal is to help her clients achieve a better quality of life using a combination of both medicinal and holistic treatment approaches, each dependent on her clients unique and individual needs. Tamara practices with LifeStance Health in offices in Kirkwood and Clayton, Missouri.
(314) 626-8235 View (314) 626-8235
LifeStance Health - Richmond Heights
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(314) 501-6911 View (314) 501-6911
Photo of Angela Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Angela Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or life’s challenges? You don’t have to face them alone. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate, comprehensive mental health care to help you regain control and improve your well-being. I provide a therapeutic, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood, allowing us to develop a strong, supportive relationship. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan that empowers you to heal and move forward. Take the first step today—reach out and start your journey to wellness.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or life’s challenges? You don’t have to face them alone. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate, comprehensive mental health care to help you regain control and improve your well-being. I provide a therapeutic, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood, allowing us to develop a strong, supportive relationship. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan that empowers you to heal and move forward. Take the first step today—reach out and start your journey to wellness.
(314) 912-1156 View (314) 912-1156
Photo of Dr. Bhawna Sharma, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bhawna Sharma
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m Dr. Bhawna Sharma, a board-certified psychiatrist with a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate complex emotional struggles and reclaim a sense of peace, purpose, and stability. With years of experience treating mood, anxiety, and thought disorders—including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, and schizophrenia—I offer a thoughtful, compassionate approach grounded in evidence-based care. Whether you’re just beginning your mental health journey or searching for relief after years of trying, we’ll work together to find what truly helps you.
I’m Dr. Bhawna Sharma, a board-certified psychiatrist with a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate complex emotional struggles and reclaim a sense of peace, purpose, and stability. With years of experience treating mood, anxiety, and thought disorders—including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, and schizophrenia—I offer a thoughtful, compassionate approach grounded in evidence-based care. Whether you’re just beginning your mental health journey or searching for relief after years of trying, we’ll work together to find what truly helps you.
(314) 881-8066 View (314) 881-8066
Photo of Nicole Parker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Nicole Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Serves Area
Nicole Parker graduated with her Master's Degree in Nursing from Maryville University in 2020 and became a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Prior to graduation she spent time working as an RN in a fast-paced Emergency Department and in acute inpatient behavioral units. She also spent time teaching the specialized focus of mental health clinical rotation to future registered nurses. Nicole's primary focus has been working with inner city children, adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of mental health disorders.
Nicole Parker graduated with her Master's Degree in Nursing from Maryville University in 2020 and became a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Prior to graduation she spent time working as an RN in a fast-paced Emergency Department and in acute inpatient behavioral units. She also spent time teaching the specialized focus of mental health clinical rotation to future registered nurses. Nicole's primary focus has been working with inner city children, adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of mental health disorders.
(314) 916-3616 View (314) 916-3616
Photo of Narissa Marasso, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Narissa Marasso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Narissa Marasso, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She practices general psychiatry with an emphasis on adult populations, including the treatment of depression, bipolar, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, insomnia, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, and the co-occurring mental health complications of Type 1 Diabetes. Services include brief psychotherapy and psychopharmacologic management. Narissa enjoys building therapeutic relationships with her clients and seeing them heal believing that mental, physical, and spiritual wellness can lead to lasting recovery.
Narissa Marasso, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She practices general psychiatry with an emphasis on adult populations, including the treatment of depression, bipolar, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, insomnia, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, and the co-occurring mental health complications of Type 1 Diabetes. Services include brief psychotherapy and psychopharmacologic management. Narissa enjoys building therapeutic relationships with her clients and seeing them heal believing that mental, physical, and spiritual wellness can lead to lasting recovery.
(314) 794-5562 View (314) 794-5562
Photo of Meredith Throop - Throop MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Throop MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Throop is not currently accepting new patients, however she collaborates with Aleksandra Swan, MSN, NP-C, PMHNP-BC who is accepting new patients. Their approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop and NP Aleksandra Swan aim to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
Dr. Throop is not currently accepting new patients, however she collaborates with Aleksandra Swan, MSN, NP-C, PMHNP-BC who is accepting new patients. Their approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop and NP Aleksandra Swan aim to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
(636) 435-2187 View (636) 435-2187
Photo of Melissa Fischer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP
Melissa Fischer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP
Serves Area
Melissa Fischer is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. Melissa offers very intense listening skills that assist her to create an accurate diagnosis leading to accurate treatment. She approaches clients as a team member, letting them know that their opinion matters. Melissa is not a dictator, but an active partner with the client. They are a team and will work it through together. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys playing piano and collecting postage stamps. Her greatest goal for treating family and clients is that she will positively touch lives.
Melissa Fischer is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. Melissa offers very intense listening skills that assist her to create an accurate diagnosis leading to accurate treatment. She approaches clients as a team member, letting them know that their opinion matters. Melissa is not a dictator, but an active partner with the client. They are a team and will work it through together. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys playing piano and collecting postage stamps. Her greatest goal for treating family and clients is that she will positively touch lives.
(636) 782-3374 View (636) 782-3374
Photo of Dr. Mary Weiss - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
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 inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most 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 inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most major insurance plans.
(314) 742-9209 View (314) 742-9209
Photo of Mary Weiss, Psychiatrist, DO
Mary Weiss
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Mary Weiss is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Weiss approaches patients with empathy and respect. She primarily manages medications but may also incorporate therapy modalities. Dr. Weiss enjoys mystery books, word puzzles, and spending time with family.
Dr. Mary Weiss is a Psychiatrist in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Weiss approaches patients with empathy and respect. She primarily manages medications but may also incorporate therapy modalities. Dr. Weiss enjoys mystery books, word puzzles, and spending time with family.
(314) 347-3582 View (314) 347-3582

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Srinivas Chilakamarri, Psychiatrist, MBBS, MD
Srinivas Chilakamarri
Psychiatrist, MBBS, MD
Online Only
Graduated from St. Louis University from Department of Psychiatry and worked as a Clinical Instructor for Department of Psychiatry at St. Louis University as well as Attending Physician, Admissions unit of State Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in Psychiatry and has obtained additional Certifications from American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and American Society of Addiction Medicine and American Academy of Pain Management. President and Physician at C Group/Psychiatric Services, P.C. Acted as Medical Director for Department of Psychiatry at St. Anthony s Medical Center for many years.
Graduated from St. Louis University from Department of Psychiatry and worked as a Clinical Instructor for Department of Psychiatry at St. Louis University as well as Attending Physician, Admissions unit of State Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in Psychiatry and has obtained additional Certifications from American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and American Society of Addiction Medicine and American Academy of Pain Management. President and Physician at C Group/Psychiatric Services, P.C. Acted as Medical Director for Department of Psychiatry at St. Anthony s Medical Center for many years.
(636) 435-7053 View (636) 435-7053
Photo of Dr. Srinivas Chilakamarri - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Peters, MO 63376
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.
(636) 689-0482 View (636) 689-0482
Photo of Kelsey Kingsborough, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kelsey Kingsborough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, MO 63368
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health, I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. My goal is to develop an individualized care plan that meets the unique needs of both the patient and their family. During our initial appointment, I collaborate closely with the patient to gather essential information, including the history of the presenting illness, medical and psychiatric history, current medications, and any previous treatments. Together, we discuss medication management, therapy recommendations, and other personalized treatment goals aimed at achieving optimal wellness.
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health, I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. My goal is to develop an individualized care plan that meets the unique needs of both the patient and their family. During our initial appointment, I collaborate closely with the patient to gather essential information, including the history of the presenting illness, medical and psychiatric history, current medications, and any previous treatments. Together, we discuss medication management, therapy recommendations, and other personalized treatment goals aimed at achieving optimal wellness.
(636) 303-1023 View (636) 303-1023
Photo of Ian Pearson, Psychiatrist, MD
Ian Pearson
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Hello! I am Dr. Ian Pearson and I can’t tell you how happy I am to make your acquaintance. I am a dual board-certified psychiatrist, and child and adolescent psychiatrist, who specializes in treating psychiatric disorders affecting children, teens and adults. This includes issues with attention and focus, school performance, depressed mood, obsessive thoughts and even issues with addiction. While this is not a comprehensive list, my job is to help my patients to manage their thoughts and emotions in a way to help them achieve their goals.
Hello! I am Dr. Ian Pearson and I can’t tell you how happy I am to make your acquaintance. I am a dual board-certified psychiatrist, and child and adolescent psychiatrist, who specializes in treating psychiatric disorders affecting children, teens and adults. This includes issues with attention and focus, school performance, depressed mood, obsessive thoughts and even issues with addiction. While this is not a comprehensive list, my job is to help my patients to manage their thoughts and emotions in a way to help them achieve their goals.
(314) 912-0795 View (314) 912-0795

See more therapy options for Clayton

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Clayton, MO

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Clayton, MO who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
87% Anxiety
87% Medication Management
80% Bipolar Disorder
73% Trauma and PTSD
53% ADHD
53% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
92% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Clayton, MO see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

92% Female
8% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Clayton?

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.