Psychiatrists in Cottleville, MO

Photo of Dr. Srinivas Chilakamarri - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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.
(636) 689-0482 View (636) 689-0482
Photo of Srinivas Chilakamarri, MD, Psychiatrist
Srinivas Chilakamarri
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
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 Stacy Johnson, CNP/PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP/PMH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Stacy Johnson, NP. Stacy Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020.
Stacy Johnson, NP. Stacy Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020.
(636) 249-2694 View (636) 249-2694
Photo of James Adams, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
James Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Andrew Adams is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2013 and a graduate degree from Saint Louis University in 2018. He is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau as well as the graduate honor society, Alpha Lambda Epsilon. Andrew practices a holistic approach to mental wellness including brief therapy and medication management. Andrew listens to his patients and gets their input regarding treatment options to make a collaborative approach to his patients' care.
Andrew Adams is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2013 and a graduate degree from Saint Louis University in 2018. He is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau as well as the graduate honor society, Alpha Lambda Epsilon. Andrew practices a holistic approach to mental wellness including brief therapy and medication management. Andrew listens to his patients and gets their input regarding treatment options to make a collaborative approach to his patients' care.
(636) 622-8113 View (636) 622-8113
Photo of Thripura Thirtala, MD, Psychiatrist
Thripura Thirtala
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Thripura Thirtala received her medical degree from Alluri Sita Rama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences in India. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Her practice is focused on patients 12 years and older, treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and panic disorders. In addition to practicing in general Psychiatry, Dr. Thirtala has specific interests in treating adolescent and substance abuse populations.
Dr. Thripura Thirtala received her medical degree from Alluri Sita Rama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences in India. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Her practice is focused on patients 12 years and older, treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and panic disorders. In addition to practicing in general Psychiatry, Dr. Thirtala has specific interests in treating adolescent and substance abuse populations.
(636) 434-1795 View (636) 434-1795
Photo of Rachel Kranz, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Kranz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Rachel Kranz is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master s Degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2018 and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University in 2013.
Rachel Kranz is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master s Degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2018 and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University in 2013.
(636) 324-8653 View (636) 324-8653

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Fischer, PMHNP-B, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Fischer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
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 Ornela Ika, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ornela Ika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I’m Ornela Ika, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment for individuals facing mental health challenges. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and trauma. I work with patients across the spectrum of mental health disorders, with a strong focus on bipolar and depressive disorders. My goal is to provide tailored, compassionate care to help individuals navigate their unique challenges.
Hello, I’m Ornela Ika, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment for individuals facing mental health challenges. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and trauma. I work with patients across the spectrum of mental health disorders, with a strong focus on bipolar and depressive disorders. My goal is to provide tailored, compassionate care to help individuals navigate their unique challenges.
(636) 556-8328 View (636) 556-8328
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
View
Photo of Kimberly Danielle, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Danielle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Klarity Wellness! My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With integrative & functional medicine training, as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Welcome to Klarity Wellness! My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With integrative & functional medicine training, as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
(314) 226-1120 View (314) 226-1120
Photo of Abraham Medaris, MD, Psychiatrist
Abraham Medaris
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
I help people with a range of concerns and diagnoses, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Bipolar disorder
I help people with a range of concerns and diagnoses, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Bipolar disorder
(636) 259-4513 View (636) 259-4513
Photo of Jeffery Davis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeffery Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jeff Davis, as a certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in delivering holistic, patient-centered care I strive to empathetically collaborate with clients to improve mental well-being. With a dual focus on physical and mental health I integrate evidence-based practices and functional health approaches to provide comprehensive, holistic care to individuals across the lifespan.
Hello, my name is Jeff Davis, as a certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in delivering holistic, patient-centered care I strive to empathetically collaborate with clients to improve mental well-being. With a dual focus on physical and mental health I integrate evidence-based practices and functional health approaches to provide comprehensive, holistic care to individuals across the lifespan.
(636) 538-1619 View (636) 538-1619
Photo of Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
(636) 735-7068 View (636) 735-7068
Photo of Victoria Sanford, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Sanford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
O Fallon, MO 63368
The field of psychiatric-mental health care has always held a profound personal and professional significance for me. My decision to pursue a career as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) stems from my passion for addressing the diverse mental health challenges that affect individuals, families, and communities. Over the years, I have worked closely with clients facing a range of mental health issues, and their resilience, coupled with the complex needs they bring, has solidified my commitment to this field.
The field of psychiatric-mental health care has always held a profound personal and professional significance for me. My decision to pursue a career as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) stems from my passion for addressing the diverse mental health challenges that affect individuals, families, and communities. Over the years, I have worked closely with clients facing a range of mental health issues, and their resilience, coupled with the complex needs they bring, has solidified my commitment to this field.
(636) 238-5674 View (636) 238-5674
Photo of Jacob Cowan, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacob Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Affton, MO 63123
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. We understand that addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we tailor your treatment plan to fit your unique needs.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. We understand that addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we tailor your treatment plan to fit your unique needs.
(636) 242-8061 View (636) 242-8061
Photo of Sandra Obiebi, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Obiebi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
(816) 209-1458 View (816) 209-1458
Photo of Kelsey Kingsborough, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelsey Kingsborough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Nicole Parker, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
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 Chido Zvirawa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chido Zvirawa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
O Fallon, MO 63368
As a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of nursing experience and 6 years as a nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals. My ideal client may be facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or managing co-occurring disorders. They may feel overwhelmed, seeking both understanding and solutions, with the goal of improving their mental health, emotional resilience, and overall quality of life. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you navigate life’s challenges and achieve optimal mental well-being.
As a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of nursing experience and 6 years as a nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals. My ideal client may be facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or managing co-occurring disorders. They may feel overwhelmed, seeking both understanding and solutions, with the goal of improving their mental health, emotional resilience, and overall quality of life. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you navigate life’s challenges and achieve optimal mental well-being.
(636) 745-4624 View (636) 745-4624
Photo of James Peter Cho, MD, Psychiatrist
James Peter Cho
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Outpatient Care is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Therapeutic Interventions and Medical Services which include Medication Assisted Treatments.
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Outpatient Care is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Therapeutic Interventions and Medical Services which include Medication Assisted Treatments.
(314) 470-8517 View (314) 470-8517

See more therapy options for Cottleville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cottleville, MO

< 10

Psychiatrists in Cottleville, MO who prioritize treating:

83% Depression
83% Anxiety
83% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
67% Trauma and PTSD
50% Child
50% Eating Disorders

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Cottleville, MO see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cottleville?

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.