Psychiatrists in Saint Peters, MO

Photo of Srinivas Chilakamarri, MD, Psychiatrist
Srinivas Chilakamarri
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (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
Melissa Fischer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Melissa Fischer is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. Melissa offers very intense listening skills that assist her to create an accurate diagnosis leading to accurate treatment. She approaches clients as a team member, letting them know that their opinion matters. Melissa is not a dictator, but an active partner with the client. They are a team and will work it through together. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys playing piano and collecting postage stamps. Her greatest goal for treating family and clients is that she will positively touch lives.
Melissa Fischer is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. Melissa offers very intense listening skills that assist her to create an accurate diagnosis leading to accurate treatment. She approaches clients as a team member, letting them know that their opinion matters. Melissa is not a dictator, but an active partner with the client. They are a team and will work it through together. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys playing piano and collecting postage stamps. Her greatest goal for treating family and clients is that she will positively touch lives.
(636) 782-3374 View (636) 782-3374
Photo of Ornela C Ika, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ornela C Ika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
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 Mia D'Aveta, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mia D'Aveta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Now, more than ever, mental health is receiving the attention it rightfully deserves. These past couple years, mental health and the importance of each persons mental well-being has never been more clear. Many individuals struggle each day with mental complications and require help to manage their symptoms. I provide comprehensive treatment plans for such individuals. Working together, we will be able to help you not only learn how to manage symptoms, but grow into to be the person you are striving to become.
Now, more than ever, mental health is receiving the attention it rightfully deserves. These past couple years, mental health and the importance of each persons mental well-being has never been more clear. Many individuals struggle each day with mental complications and require help to manage their symptoms. I provide comprehensive treatment plans for such individuals. Working together, we will be able to help you not only learn how to manage symptoms, but grow into to be the person you are striving to become.
(636) 265-8206 View (636) 265-8206
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 Enos Moss, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Enos Moss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
EJ is a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has been with Lifestance Health since January 2020. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2001, and obtained his Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2011. In 2016, he received his post-master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. He is currently a Doctor of Nursing Practice candidate at Capella University and plans to complete his studies in 2023.
EJ is a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has been with Lifestance Health since January 2020. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2001, and obtained his Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2011. In 2016, he received his post-master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. He is currently a Doctor of Nursing Practice candidate at Capella University and plans to complete his studies in 2023.
(636) 747-1086 View (636) 747-1086
Photo of James Adams, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
James Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
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 Mary Bauer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Bauer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
Hello! I am licensed as Nurse Practitioner (NP) in MO (primary), KS, and MN. While I hold dual certifications in adult primary care and psychiatric mental health as an NP, my focus lies within the broad landscape of mental health. Cognitive behavioral approaches to mental/behavioral health care underscores, informs, and amplifies my skills as a clinician. Likewise, exploration and of practice of lifestyle behaviors are key to optimizing the health of the whole person.
Hello! I am licensed as Nurse Practitioner (NP) in MO (primary), KS, and MN. While I hold dual certifications in adult primary care and psychiatric mental health as an NP, my focus lies within the broad landscape of mental health. Cognitive behavioral approaches to mental/behavioral health care underscores, informs, and amplifies my skills as a clinician. Likewise, exploration and of practice of lifestyle behaviors are key to optimizing the health of the whole person.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Stacy Johnson, CNP/PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacy Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP/PMH
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Stacy Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020. Stacy finds it extremely gratifying to help improve the quality of life of her clients. She listens to her patients and allows them to have input into their treatment recommendations. Stacy currently offers in-person and telehealth appointments, making psychiatric medication services accessible and convenient for you. In her free time, Stacy enjoys being outside and loves to camp and swim.
Stacy Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020. Stacy finds it extremely gratifying to help improve the quality of life of her clients. She listens to her patients and allows them to have input into their treatment recommendations. Stacy currently offers in-person and telehealth appointments, making psychiatric medication services accessible and convenient for you. In her free time, Stacy enjoys being outside and loves to camp and swim.
(636) 249-2694 View (636) 249-2694
Photo of Abraham Medaris, MD, Psychiatrist
Abraham Medaris
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
I help people with a range of concerns and diagnoses, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Bipolar disorder
I help people with a range of concerns and diagnoses, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Bipolar disorder
(636) 259-4513 View (636) 259-4513
Photo of Rachel Kranz, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Kranz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
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 Venita Ninemire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Venita Ninemire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
(636) 245-6732 View (636) 245-6732
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 Nicole Parker, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Nicole Parker graduated with her Master's Degree in Nursing from Maryville University in 2020 and became a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Prior to graduation she spent time working as an RN in a fast-paced Emergency Department and in acute inpatient behavioral units. She also spent time teaching the specialized focus of mental health clinical rotation to future registered nurses. Nicole's primary focus has been working with inner city children, adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of mental health disorders.
Nicole Parker graduated with her Master's Degree in Nursing from Maryville University in 2020 and became a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Prior to graduation she spent time working as an RN in a fast-paced Emergency Department and in acute inpatient behavioral units. She also spent time teaching the specialized focus of mental health clinical rotation to future registered nurses. Nicole's primary focus has been working with inner city children, adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of mental health disorders.
(314) 916-3616 View (314) 916-3616
Photo of Mohd Azfar Malik - Serenity Health, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Serenity Health
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63303
At Serenity Health, we understand the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more, our team of licensed and certified providers are here to help. Our providers are trained to use psychotherapy to learn about your situation, properly diagnose, and treat your symptoms. Along with psychiatry, we offer neurology services to patients struggling with neuropathy, movement disorders, migraines, post-stroke care, seizures, and more. Our neurology team coordinates with the care plans of your other providers to ensure continuous improvement.
At Serenity Health, we understand the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more, our team of licensed and certified providers are here to help. Our providers are trained to use psychotherapy to learn about your situation, properly diagnose, and treat your symptoms. Along with psychiatry, we offer neurology services to patients struggling with neuropathy, movement disorders, migraines, post-stroke care, seizures, and more. Our neurology team coordinates with the care plans of your other providers to ensure continuous improvement.
(636) 259-4665 View (636) 259-4665
Photo of Deidra Thompson - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(337) 607-0683 View (337) 607-0683
Photo of Cassandra Turner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Cassandra Turner
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Medical Services is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Psychiatry, Medication Management, Medication Assisted Treatments, and Therapeutic Interventions while under the care of our clinical team.
(816) 209-1458 View (816) 209-1458
Photo of Brittania Phillips, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittania Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
(636) 242-8075 View (636) 242-8075

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kelsey Kingsborough, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelsey Kingsborough
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63304
I am a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health. I want to help the patient and their family get an individualized care plan from the patient centered model including psychiatric history, medical history, diagnosis, medication management with prescribing, therapy recommendations, and other goal seeking treatment. My main focus is to get patients to their optimal wellness.
I am a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health. I want to help the patient and their family get an individualized care plan from the patient centered model including psychiatric history, medical history, diagnosis, medication management with prescribing, therapy recommendations, and other goal seeking treatment. My main focus is to get patients to their optimal wellness.
(636) 303-1023 View (636) 303-1023
Photo of Katie Padberg, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie Padberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63304
I am so happy you are here! It takes courage to reach out for help. You don't have to feel this way forever. Valuable mental healthcare means feeling understood and supported, while continuously moving forward towards improved mental health. I understand how challenging it can be to find the right provider that really 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. Valuable mental healthcare means feeling understood and supported, while continuously moving forward towards improved mental health. I understand how challenging it can be to find the right provider that really listens and fosters a nonjudgemental, welcoming environment. I would be honored to be that person for you.
(314) 347-3034 View (314) 347-3034

See more therapy options for Saint Peters

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Saint Peters, MO

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Saint Peters, MO who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
94% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Trauma and PTSD
72% Medication Management
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
94% Aetna
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Saint Peters, MO see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Saint Peters?

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.