Psychiatrists in O Fallon, MO

Photo of Victoria Sanford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Victoria Sanford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
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 Kelsey Kingsborough, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kelsey Kingsborough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, MO 63368
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health, I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. My goal is to develop an individualized care plan that meets the unique needs of both the patient and their family. During our initial appointment, I collaborate closely with the patient to gather essential information, including the history of the presenting illness, medical and psychiatric history, current medications, and any previous treatments. Together, we discuss medication management, therapy recommendations, and other personalized treatment goals aimed at achieving optimal wellness.
As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health, I am committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. My goal is to develop an individualized care plan that meets the unique needs of both the patient and their family. During our initial appointment, I collaborate closely with the patient to gather essential information, including the history of the presenting illness, medical and psychiatric history, current medications, and any previous treatments. Together, we discuss medication management, therapy recommendations, and other personalized treatment goals aimed at achieving optimal wellness.
(636) 303-1023 View (636) 303-1023
Photo of Dr. Srinivas Chilakamarri - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(636) 689-0482 View (636) 689-0482
Photo of James Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
James Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
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 Srinivas Chilakamarri, Psychiatrist, MBBS, MD
Srinivas Chilakamarri
Psychiatrist, MBBS, MD
Online Only
Graduated from St. Louis University from Department of Psychiatry and worked as a Clinical Instructor for Department of Psychiatry at St. Louis University as well as Attending Physician, Admissions unit of State Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in Psychiatry and has obtained additional Certifications from American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and American Society of Addiction Medicine and American Academy of Pain Management. President and Physician at C Group/Psychiatric Services, P.C. Acted as Medical Director for Department of Psychiatry at St. Anthony s Medical Center for many years.
Graduated from St. Louis University from Department of Psychiatry and worked as a Clinical Instructor for Department of Psychiatry at St. Louis University as well as Attending Physician, Admissions unit of State Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Board Certified in Psychiatry and has obtained additional Certifications from American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and American Society of Addiction Medicine and American Academy of Pain Management. President and Physician at C Group/Psychiatric Services, P.C. Acted as Medical Director for Department of Psychiatry at St. Anthony s Medical Center for many years.
(636) 435-7053 View (636) 435-7053
Photo of James Peter Cho, Psychiatrist, MD
James Peter Cho
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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
Photo of Rolando Larice, Psychiatrist, MD
Rolando Larice
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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 Thripura Thirtala, Psychiatrist, MD
Thripura Thirtala
Psychiatrist, MD
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, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Rachel Kranz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
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
Photo of Stacy Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP
Stacy Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, NP
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Louis, MO 63113
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 Nicole Parker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Nicole Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
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 Narissa Marasso, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Narissa Marasso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Saint Louis, MO 63122
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 Audrey Mendes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Audrey Mendes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Whether you are beginning your mental health journey or have prior experience with mental health care, Audrey Mendes, PMHNP-BC, is committed to supporting you in achieving your goals and improving your well-being.
Whether you are beginning your mental health journey or have prior experience with mental health care, Audrey Mendes, PMHNP-BC, is committed to supporting you in achieving your goals and improving your well-being.
(636) 249-1148 View (636) 249-1148
Photo of Ornela C Ika, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Ornela C Ika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Saint Peters, MO 63304
Ornela Ika is a highly dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri and Illinois. Her objective is to break the barrier of mental health access for all. She strives in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and caring environment for patients suffering for mental disorders.
Ornela Ika is a highly dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri and Illinois. Her objective is to break the barrier of mental health access for all. She strives in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and caring environment for patients suffering for mental disorders.
(636) 263-9922 View (636) 263-9922
Photo of Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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 Laura Kastraba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Laura Kastraba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Laura Kastraba, PMHNP, is an advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health in Missouri, dedicated to providing compassionate and collaborative care to adults and seniors. With extensive experience in crisis management and patient support, Laura offers a combination of active listening and expert guidance, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and effective treatment. Serving the communities in Missouri, she focuses on fostering a therapeutic environment where individuals feel safe to share their concerns and work towards their mental health goals.
Laura Kastraba, PMHNP, is an advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health in Missouri, dedicated to providing compassionate and collaborative care to adults and seniors. With extensive experience in crisis management and patient support, Laura offers a combination of active listening and expert guidance, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and effective treatment. Serving the communities in Missouri, she focuses on fostering a therapeutic environment where individuals feel safe to share their concerns and work towards their mental health goals.
(636) 689-2633 View (636) 689-2633
Photo of Gerthy Cipus Pierre - Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
(314) 912-0711 View (314) 912-0711
Photo of Jacob Cowan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jacob Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
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 Dr. Jordan Meyers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jordan Meyers
Psychiatrist, MD
Saint Louis, MO 63113
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
“Who do you resonate with?” That’s where Dr. Meyers begins—with curiosity. Both storyteller and physician, he pairs relational insights with the medical depth only an MD can provide. You get therapy and medication in one place—a one-stop shop for mental wellness—from an expert who understands neurobiology in relation to your symptoms and goals. “I focus on what’s meaningful to you,” says Dr. Meyers. Whether you’re craving joy, peace, stability or connection, he partners with you to make sense of your story—and rewrite it.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119

See more therapy options for O Fallon

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in O Fallon, MO

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in O Fallon, MO who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
90% Bipolar Disorder
90% Medication Management
80% Depression
70% ADHD
70% Psychosis
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in O Fallon, MO see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in O Fallon?

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.