Psychiatrists in Des Peres, MO

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Photo of Amanda Kingston - Brave Counseling & Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist
Brave Counseling & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
(573) 766-4587 View (573) 766-4587
Photo of Beth Glenn, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beth Glenn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Beth Glenn is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Beth has been a psychiatric nurse since 2007 and went on to further her career to becoming a nurse practitioner in 2022. Beth graduated with her master s degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University with honors having a 4.0 GPA, specializing in psychiatric mental health.
Beth Glenn is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Beth has been a psychiatric nurse since 2007 and went on to further her career to becoming a nurse practitioner in 2022. Beth graduated with her master s degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University with honors having a 4.0 GPA, specializing in psychiatric mental health.
(314) 907-2532 View (314) 907-2532
Photo of Britney Kneibert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Britney Kneibert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Hello and welcome! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to supporting my patients on their mental health journeys. With a compassionate approach, I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings.
Hello and welcome! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to supporting my patients on their mental health journeys. With a compassionate approach, I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings.
(314) 370-2731 View (314) 370-2731
Photo of Dr. James Young, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. James Young
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website (www.jamesyoungdo.com) for patient testimonials.
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website (www.jamesyoungdo.com) for patient testimonials.
(816) 451-1280 View (816) 451-1280
Photo of Dr. Mary Weiss - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
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 Thripura Thirtala, MD, Psychiatrist
Thripura Thirtala
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
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 Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Kelly M McKinney, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly M McKinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Kelly McKinney, I am a Nurse Practitioner, dual certified in Family/Primary Care and Mental Health. I have eleven years of experience as a registered nurse in the areas of Pediatrics, Oncology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Public Health, Primary Care and Mental Health. I have been practicing as a certified Nurse Practitioner for six of those years. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Goldfarb School of Nursing in 2010. Later, I earned a Master of Science in Nursing and certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) from Walden University in 2015.
My name is Kelly McKinney, I am a Nurse Practitioner, dual certified in Family/Primary Care and Mental Health. I have eleven years of experience as a registered nurse in the areas of Pediatrics, Oncology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Public Health, Primary Care and Mental Health. I have been practicing as a certified Nurse Practitioner for six of those years. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Goldfarb School of Nursing in 2010. Later, I earned a Master of Science in Nursing and certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) from Walden University in 2015.
(636) 202-1772 View (636) 202-1772
Photo of Sindhura Saini - SANA Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
SANA Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Accepting New Patients - With medication and therapeutic interventions, Dr. Sindhura Saini, M.D. hopes to help patients feel respected while working to improve their well being and mental health. Dr. Saini's expertise involves anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, ADHD and bipolar disorder.
Accepting New Patients - With medication and therapeutic interventions, Dr. Sindhura Saini, M.D. hopes to help patients feel respected while working to improve their well being and mental health. Dr. Saini's expertise involves anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, ADHD and bipolar disorder.
(314) 866-7702 View (314) 866-7702
Photo of Narissa Marasso, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Narissa Marasso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
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 J. J. Jones, DNP, PMHNP-C, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
J. J. Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101
As a board-certified nurse practitioner in both adult medicine (ANP) and psychiatric and mental health (PMHNP), I bring over 30 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field. My journey has been characterized by a profound commitment to fostering healthier relationships and improving the quality of life for my patients. My extensive background has equipped me with a unique perspective that bridges physical and mental health, allowing for a holistic approach to patient care.
As a board-certified nurse practitioner in both adult medicine (ANP) and psychiatric and mental health (PMHNP), I bring over 30 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field. My journey has been characterized by a profound commitment to fostering healthier relationships and improving the quality of life for my patients. My extensive background has equipped me with a unique perspective that bridges physical and mental health, allowing for a holistic approach to patient care.
(405) 449-5785 View (405) 449-5785
Photo of Kelsey Lonergan, APRN, PMHNP, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelsey Lonergan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Accepting NEW patients in pediatric psychiatry, Availability in 1-2 Weeks! I see children and adolescents ranging from ages 5- 18 for all psychiatric and mental health needs. Experienced in ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiance, PTSD, and many other conditions. I see patients virtually and offer weekend and evening hours.
Accepting NEW patients in pediatric psychiatry, Availability in 1-2 Weeks! I see children and adolescents ranging from ages 5- 18 for all psychiatric and mental health needs. Experienced in ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiance, PTSD, and many other conditions. I see patients virtually and offer weekend and evening hours.
(314) 310-5473 View (314) 310-5473
Photo of Ivy Alwell, APRN,BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ivy Alwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN,BC
Not Verified Not Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
My approach is holistic, integrative, and collaborative. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medical management with supportive psychotherapy. I use evidence based practice guidelines with the goals of helping the patient achieve symptom management, improve their level of functioning, attain and sustain body-mind health and wellness.
My approach is holistic, integrative, and collaborative. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medical management with supportive psychotherapy. I use evidence based practice guidelines with the goals of helping the patient achieve symptom management, improve their level of functioning, attain and sustain body-mind health and wellness.
(314) 205-8068 View (314) 205-8068
Photo of Jelya Fatawu, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jelya Fatawu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Dittmer, MO 63023
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) 466-8339 View (636) 466-8339
Photo of Madelyn Hindia, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, who is seeking effective and compassionate care. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms impacting their daily life and are looking for guidance in finding the right medications to regain balance and focus. Their goal is to improve their mental clarity, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life through a customized and thoughtful treatment approach.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, who is seeking effective and compassionate care. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms impacting their daily life and are looking for guidance in finding the right medications to regain balance and focus. Their goal is to improve their mental clarity, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life through a customized and thoughtful treatment approach.
(314) 948-4012 View (314) 948-4012
Photo of Tamara Runge, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamara Runge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
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
Photo of Megan Wood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Megan Robison is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner, a Post-Masters certification - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Bachelor of arts degree - Sociology/Anthropology with a minor in music. Megan's primary focus is on the diagnosis and management of psychiatric conditions with an emphasis on pharmacologic intervention. Outside of work, Megan enjoys rock climbing, hiking, gaming (board and video), terrible puns, trying new foods, and anything outdoors.
Megan Robison is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner, a Post-Masters certification - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Bachelor of arts degree - Sociology/Anthropology with a minor in music. Megan's primary focus is on the diagnosis and management of psychiatric conditions with an emphasis on pharmacologic intervention. Outside of work, Megan enjoys rock climbing, hiking, gaming (board and video), terrible puns, trying new foods, and anything outdoors.
(636) 303-1885 View (636) 303-1885
Photo of Austin Lin, MD, Psychiatrist
Austin Lin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Rolando Larice, MD, Psychiatrist
Rolando Larice
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dittmer, MO 63023
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
(636) 201-3500 View (636) 201-3500
Photo of Katrina Mary Zlataric - KZ Psychiatric Services, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
KZ Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Barnhart, MO 63012
Find the help you need to achieve optimal mental health and well-being by choosing me, Katrina Zlataric, PMHNP-BC, of KZ Psychiatric Services. I have 19 years of experience providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health services in Barnhart, MO. My psychiatric consultations create a safe space for you to express yourself without judgment.
Find the help you need to achieve optimal mental health and well-being by choosing me, Katrina Zlataric, PMHNP-BC, of KZ Psychiatric Services. I have 19 years of experience providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health services in Barnhart, MO. My psychiatric consultations create a safe space for you to express yourself without judgment.
(636) 251-4409 View (636) 251-4409

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Psychiatrists in Des Peres, MO who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in Des Peres, MO see their clients

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FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Des Peres?

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.