Psychiatrists in Florissant, MO

Photo of Kelly Mckinney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Kelly Mckinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who may feel overlooked in traditional healthcare settings, patients who often leave appointments feeling rushed, unheard, or dismissed. They may struggle with poor focus, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disturbances or other mental health challenges, and they want a provider who truly listens and takes the time to understand their story. Their goal is not only to feel better but also to be respected as an active partner in their care. They want compassion, patience, and a safe space where their voice matters.
My ideal client is someone who may feel overlooked in traditional healthcare settings, patients who often leave appointments feeling rushed, unheard, or dismissed. They may struggle with poor focus, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disturbances or other mental health challenges, and they want a provider who truly listens and takes the time to understand their story. Their goal is not only to feel better but also to be respected as an active partner in their care. They want compassion, patience, and a safe space where their voice matters.
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Photo of Madelyn Hindia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Serves Area
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 Suren Chaganti, Psychiatrist, MD,JD
Suren Chaganti
Psychiatrist, MD,JD
Online Only
Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, mood changes, or difficulty focusing, you’re not alone—and effective, straightforward treatment can help. My goal is to help you regain clarity, stability, and confidence. I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a unique background in both medicine and law, offering evidence-based treatment tailored to each individual. I am licensed with a DEA registration in CA, FL, GA, MO, and TX. With over 30 years of experience, I work with individuals from all walks of life, including children, students, working professionals, skilled tradespeople, caregivers, and retirees.
Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, mood changes, or difficulty focusing, you’re not alone—and effective, straightforward treatment can help. My goal is to help you regain clarity, stability, and confidence. I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a unique background in both medicine and law, offering evidence-based treatment tailored to each individual. I am licensed with a DEA registration in CA, FL, GA, MO, and TX. With over 30 years of experience, I work with individuals from all walks of life, including children, students, working professionals, skilled tradespeople, caregivers, and retirees.
(314) 876-6385 View (314) 876-6385
Photo of Brenda Bush - Innovative Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Innovative Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Serves Area
Brenda Bush is a dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Her focus is Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care Adult medicine. Brenda has been a nurse for 30 years and a Nurse Practitioner for 18 years. Her practitioner education is from Indiana Wesleyan University- Marion, Indiana and University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has a collaborative practice in St. Louis and surrounding cities in Mo. and is also licensed in Arizona, Kansas and Virgina. Her goal is to partner with you to create a treatment plan that improves your mental and physical health, enhancing your quality of life.
Brenda Bush is a dual Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health. Her focus is Psychiatric Mental Health and Primary Care Adult medicine. Brenda has been a nurse for 30 years and a Nurse Practitioner for 18 years. Her practitioner education is from Indiana Wesleyan University- Marion, Indiana and University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has a collaborative practice in St. Louis and surrounding cities in Mo. and is also licensed in Arizona, Kansas and Virgina. Her goal is to partner with you to create a treatment plan that improves your mental and physical health, enhancing your quality of life.
(314) 582-6420 View (314) 582-6420

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Brian Braumiller, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Brian Braumiller
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Brian Braumiller, DO, earned his degrees from Ohio University and Wright State University and served as chief resident in psychiatry from 1995 to 1996. During residency, he trained under renowned forensic psychiatrist Phillip J. Resnick, MD, gaining experience in inpatient and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Braumiller has also served as an assistant professor and medical director for multiple facilities and remains current on advances in psychiatric care through ongoing Maintenance of Certification activities.
Dr. Brian Braumiller, DO, earned his degrees from Ohio University and Wright State University and served as chief resident in psychiatry from 1995 to 1996. During residency, he trained under renowned forensic psychiatrist Phillip J. Resnick, MD, gaining experience in inpatient and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Braumiller has also served as an assistant professor and medical director for multiple facilities and remains current on advances in psychiatric care through ongoing Maintenance of Certification activities.
(314) 370-1698 View (314) 370-1698
Photo of Jelya Fatawu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jelya Fatawu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, meet Jelya Fatawu, I am a licensed Practitioner based in New Mexico. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective teletherapy services, focusing on helping individuals achieve a sense of stability, balance, and improved emotional well-being. With a deep understanding of the struggles that individuals encounter, my therapy practice is tailored to support those who are navigating difficult life transitions, experiencing anxiety or depression, or coping with trauma.
Hi there, meet Jelya Fatawu, I am a licensed Practitioner based in New Mexico. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective teletherapy services, focusing on helping individuals achieve a sense of stability, balance, and improved emotional well-being. With a deep understanding of the struggles that individuals encounter, my therapy practice is tailored to support those who are navigating difficult life transitions, experiencing anxiety or depression, or coping with trauma.
(314) 936-4093 View (314) 936-4093
Photo of NWAMAKA ORJI, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
NWAMAKA ORJI
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and respected from very first interaction. I understand that seeking mental health care can feel overwhelming, and I do not take your trust lightly. Every person who walks through my door brings a unique story, and I am committed to listening without judgment. I am deeply committed to providing culturally sensitive and individualized care. My approach integrates evidenced-based practice with empathy, recognizing that healing involves both science and human connection. I am here to support you with patience and respect.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and respected from very first interaction. I understand that seeking mental health care can feel overwhelming, and I do not take your trust lightly. Every person who walks through my door brings a unique story, and I am committed to listening without judgment. I am deeply committed to providing culturally sensitive and individualized care. My approach integrates evidenced-based practice with empathy, recognizing that healing involves both science and human connection. I am here to support you with patience and respect.
(314) 237-0979 View (314) 237-0979
Photo of Marie Bosch, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Marie Bosch
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
An ideal patient for my practice is motivated to improve their mental health and open to self-exploration. They are facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder, and they are ready to engage in honest communication. Committed to regular sessions, they value a collaborative therapeutic relationship and understand that progress takes time. Seeking a safe, supportive environment, they aim to navigate their mental health journey and build resilience.
An ideal patient for my practice is motivated to improve their mental health and open to self-exploration. They are facing challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder, and they are ready to engage in honest communication. Committed to regular sessions, they value a collaborative therapeutic relationship and understand that progress takes time. Seeking a safe, supportive environment, they aim to navigate their mental health journey and build resilience.
(314) 350-4903 View (314) 350-4903
Photo of Hannah Harper, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Hannah Harper
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals who value open dialogue, shared decision-making, and accountability in their care. Many are seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a provider who truly listens. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, mood concerns, or life stressors, my goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, educated, and actively involved in building a treatment plan that encourages insight, growth, and lasting well-being.
I work with individuals who value open dialogue, shared decision-making, and accountability in their care. Many are seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a provider who truly listens. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, mood concerns, or life stressors, my goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, educated, and actively involved in building a treatment plan that encourages insight, growth, and lasting well-being.
(314) 310-7895 View (314) 310-7895
Photo of Dr. Thripura Thirtala - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Chesterfield, MO 63017
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) 789-7316 View (314) 789-7316
Photo of Jennifer Armstrong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Jennifer Armstrong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward with their mental health. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, trauma, sleep difficulties, stress, or simply feeling like they are not functioning or feeling like themselves. Many come to my practice because they want to feel heard, understood, and supported — not rushed, judged, or reduced to a diagnosis. I help by first listening. I take time to understand the full picture: your symptoms, stressors, strengths, history, and what matters most to you. From there, we work together to create a treatment
My ideal clients are individuals who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward with their mental health. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, trauma, sleep difficulties, stress, or simply feeling like they are not functioning or feeling like themselves. Many come to my practice because they want to feel heard, understood, and supported — not rushed, judged, or reduced to a diagnosis. I help by first listening. I take time to understand the full picture: your symptoms, stressors, strengths, history, and what matters most to you. From there, we work together to create a treatment
(314) 916-1763 View (314) 916-1763
Photo of Haley Koepp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Haley Koepp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Chesterfield, MO 63017
Dr. Haley Koepp is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2018. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in pPychology from Webster University and a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from Barnes-Jewish Goldfarb School of Nursing. She also holds a Master’s degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Purdue University Global. Dr. Koepp treats acute and chronic mental health disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings and all ages of the lifespan.
Dr. Haley Koepp is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2018. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in pPychology from Webster University and a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from Barnes-Jewish Goldfarb School of Nursing. She also holds a Master’s degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Purdue University Global. Dr. Koepp treats acute and chronic mental health disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings and all ages of the lifespan.
(314) 934-2794 View (314) 934-2794
Photo of Dr. Mary Weiss - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
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 Afsaneh Rezaeizadeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMSW
Afsaneh Rezaeizadeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMSW
Saint Louis, MO 63146
Hello, and welcome. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Licensed Master Social Worker with experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and other mental health concerns. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to each individual. I believe meaningful care starts with feeling heard and understood. I combine medication management with supportive therapy and practical coping strategies to help patients build resilience, improve daily functioning, and create lasting change. My goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where we can work together toward your personal goals.
Hello, and welcome. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Licensed Master Social Worker with experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and other mental health concerns. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to each individual. I believe meaningful care starts with feeling heard and understood. I combine medication management with supportive therapy and practical coping strategies to help patients build resilience, improve daily functioning, and create lasting change. My goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where we can work together toward your personal goals.
(314) 742-7720 View (314) 742-7720
Photo of Narissa Marasso, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Narissa Marasso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Saint Louis, MO 63122
Narissa obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Missouri Western State University, and her Master’s of Science in Nursing from Maryville University. She is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Narissa is also a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) and has extensive experience working with clients who struggle with co-occurring mental health conditions of Type 1 Diabetes. Narissa has worked in urgent care, emergency rooms, geriatric, adult, and adolescent acute behavioral health units throughout St Louis SSM Hospitals.
Narissa obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Missouri Western State University, and her Master’s of Science in Nursing from Maryville University. She is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Narissa is also a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) and has extensive experience working with clients who struggle with co-occurring mental health conditions of Type 1 Diabetes. Narissa has worked in urgent care, emergency rooms, geriatric, adult, and adolescent acute behavioral health units throughout St Louis SSM Hospitals.
(314) 794-5562 View (314) 794-5562
Photo of Cathy Troue, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Cathy Troue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Saint Louis, MO 63122
Cathy specializes in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. She also has extensive experience managing more complex concerns including PTSD, psychosis, sleep disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Her approach emphasizes careful medication management paired with supportive patient education, empowering individuals to take an active role in their mental health care. A particular area of passion for Cathy is supporting individuals experiencing postpartum depression and anxiety.
Cathy specializes in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. She also has extensive experience managing more complex concerns including PTSD, psychosis, sleep disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Her approach emphasizes careful medication management paired with supportive patient education, empowering individuals to take an active role in their mental health care. A particular area of passion for Cathy is supporting individuals experiencing postpartum depression and anxiety.
(314) 866-4780 View (314) 866-4780
Photo of Katie Padberg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katie Padberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I am so happy you are here! It takes courage to reach out for help. You don't have to feel this way forever. I understand how challenging it can be to find the right provider that truly listens and fosters a nonjudgemental, welcoming environment. I would be honored to be that person for you.
I am so happy you are here! It takes courage to reach out for help. You don't have to feel this way forever. I understand how challenging it can be to find the right provider that truly listens and fosters a nonjudgemental, welcoming environment. I would be honored to be that person for you.
(314) 347-3034 View (314) 347-3034
Photo of Jelya Fatawu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jelya Fatawu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Saint Louis, MO 63112
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 M Susan Dawson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, PMHNP
M Susan Dawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Susan Dawson is a board certified clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner in adult psychiatry ages 18-90. Clients with mental illness, ADHD, substance use concerns and behavioral issues related to autism or developmental delay may find her approach useful to their health and well being. There is no label-depression, bipolar or anxiety-that cannot be supported within life's complications.
Dr. Susan Dawson is a board certified clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner in adult psychiatry ages 18-90. Clients with mental illness, ADHD, substance use concerns and behavioral issues related to autism or developmental delay may find her approach useful to their health and well being. There is no label-depression, bipolar or anxiety-that cannot be supported within life's complications.
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Photo of Pamela Lyss-lerman, Psychiatrist, MD
Pamela Lyss-lerman
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Louis, MO 63105
My practice is in Clayton where I provide psychotherapy and medication management, specializing in treating women who are planning for pregnancy, are pregnant, are in their postpartum period, or in the perimenopausal transition. I work collaboratively with you to determine the optimal route of care for your needs and goals. I earned my MD at the University of California - San Francisco where I also completed my internship and residency training in Psychiatry.
My practice is in Clayton where I provide psychotherapy and medication management, specializing in treating women who are planning for pregnancy, are pregnant, are in their postpartum period, or in the perimenopausal transition. I work collaboratively with you to determine the optimal route of care for your needs and goals. I earned my MD at the University of California - San Francisco where I also completed my internship and residency training in Psychiatry.
(314) 907-1638 View (314) 907-1638

See more therapy options for Florissant

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Florissant, MO

< 10

Psychiatrists in Florissant, MO who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
75% Depression
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management
75% Self-Harming

Average years in practice

31 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in Florissant, MO see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Florissant?

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.