Psychiatrists in Salisbury, MO

Photo of Lindsey Michelle Allen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsey Michelle Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salisbury, MO 65281
Our ideal clients may be navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, or substance use disorders. They may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or unsure of where to turn for help, but they share a common desire: to find healing, balance, and hope. We understand their needs for a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and access effective treatments.
Our ideal clients may be navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, or substance use disorders. They may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or unsure of where to turn for help, but they share a common desire: to find healing, balance, and hope. We understand their needs for a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and access effective treatments.
(660) 207-6064 View (660) 207-6064

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Asif A Uddin, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Asif A Uddin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64116
I completed my residency at KU, and went on to pursue triple board certification in psychiatry, internal medicine, and obesity medicine. I pursued combined training to improve the stigma of psychiatry and bridge the gap. Despite the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, they are often written off and not considered as serious as medical diagnoses. However, both from treating it regularly, as well as my personal battle with bipolar disorder, for example, I know it can be just as debilitating as any medical condition out there. My own mental health journey uniquely allows me to relate and empathize to provide the best care possible.
I completed my residency at KU, and went on to pursue triple board certification in psychiatry, internal medicine, and obesity medicine. I pursued combined training to improve the stigma of psychiatry and bridge the gap. Despite the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, they are often written off and not considered as serious as medical diagnoses. However, both from treating it regularly, as well as my personal battle with bipolar disorder, for example, I know it can be just as debilitating as any medical condition out there. My own mental health journey uniquely allows me to relate and empathize to provide the best care possible.
(816) 708-0508 View (816) 708-0508
Photo of Amanda Kingston - Brave Counseling & Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist
Brave Counseling & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
(573) 766-4587 View (573) 766-4587
Photo of Madelyn Hindia, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madelyn Hindia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
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 Sarah Fese Taylor - Complete Health Clinic, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Complete Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to ​multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to ​multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
(505) 421-6282 View (505) 421-6282
Photo of Kaleigh Weems - Southern Frame of Mind, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Southern Frame of Mind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Osage Beach, MO 65065
At Southern Frame of Mind, our mission is to promote mental health awareness for individuals, families, and the community by strengthening individual empowerment, increasing access to treatment, providing education concerning mental illness including addiction and services for people who are living with mental illness.
At Southern Frame of Mind, our mission is to promote mental health awareness for individuals, families, and the community by strengthening individual empowerment, increasing access to treatment, providing education concerning mental illness including addiction and services for people who are living with mental illness.
(573) 770-3902 View (573) 770-3902
Photo of Mary Bauer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Bauer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(636) 791-6234 View (636) 791-6234
Photo of Suzanne Opperman, MSN, CADC, CCTP-II, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Suzanne Opperman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CADC, CCTP-II, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I focus on providing safe interactive discussions of self evaluation and learning. Rational Emotive Therapy (REBT) is a method of seeing how your thinking leads to your emotions, which can lead to your anxiety and other behaviors. NURSING burnout, workplace violence coaching. Evaluating your past, where your emotions come from, and how those old emotions lead to what you say, do and how you feel now. People don't realize there were past traumatic events in their life. Sometimes people think their younger life was "normal" After learning what/when creates you to become anxious, there are reasons why. I currently do not prescribe.
I focus on providing safe interactive discussions of self evaluation and learning. Rational Emotive Therapy (REBT) is a method of seeing how your thinking leads to your emotions, which can lead to your anxiety and other behaviors. NURSING burnout, workplace violence coaching. Evaluating your past, where your emotions come from, and how those old emotions lead to what you say, do and how you feel now. People don't realize there were past traumatic events in their life. Sometimes people think their younger life was "normal" After learning what/when creates you to become anxious, there are reasons why. I currently do not prescribe.
(573) 994-3786 View (573) 994-3786
Photo of Dr. James Young, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. James Young
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website (www.jamesyoungdo.com) for patient testimonials.
Available within the next 48 hours! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website (www.jamesyoungdo.com) for patient testimonials.
(816) 451-1280 View (816) 451-1280
Photo of Jeffery Davis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeffery Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jeff Davis, as a certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in delivering holistic, patient-centered care I strive to empathetically collaborate with clients to improve mental well-being. With a dual focus on physical and mental health I integrate evidence-based practices and functional health approaches to provide comprehensive, holistic care to individuals across the lifespan.
Hello, my name is Jeff Davis, as a certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in delivering holistic, patient-centered care I strive to empathetically collaborate with clients to improve mental well-being. With a dual focus on physical and mental health I integrate evidence-based practices and functional health approaches to provide comprehensive, holistic care to individuals across the lifespan.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Jerilyn Brown, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jerilyn Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
I am accepting new patients. Are you depressed, anxious, having panic attacks, stressed out, have trouble concentrating or trouble sleeping? Are people around you telling you that you are easily irritated? You don't have to keep suffering. I can help you by providing a full psychiatric evaluation and offering medication management with brief therapy. I do this with empathy and compassion.
I am accepting new patients. Are you depressed, anxious, having panic attacks, stressed out, have trouble concentrating or trouble sleeping? Are people around you telling you that you are easily irritated? You don't have to keep suffering. I can help you by providing a full psychiatric evaluation and offering medication management with brief therapy. I do this with empathy and compassion.
(573) 973-3690 View (573) 973-3690
Photo of Brayden Willis, DO, Psychiatrist
Brayden Willis
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Liberty, MO 64068
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
Accepting NEW patients! With appointments IN-PERSON or TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Willis is a Physician Psychiatrist, dual board-certified in general and child & adolescent psychiatry. He is a real advocate for his patients, and they respond well to his approach. Parents value that Dr. Willis gives adequate time to: build rapport/trust, allow for all participants' voices to be heard, resolve concerns, provide therapy when possible, establish accurate diagnoses, implement effective individualized treatment plans, & safely manage any medications. The result is that all involved feel confident that they are receiving the highest quality of care.
(816) 323-6124 View (816) 323-6124
Photo of Dr. Joshua McArthur, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Joshua McArthur
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
My favorite part of being a psychiatrist is that I get to see my patients improve their quality of life, and embrace their own pursuit of happiness. Mental health symptoms get in the way, and medication management can reduce or eliminate those obstacles.
My favorite part of being a psychiatrist is that I get to see my patients improve their quality of life, and embrace their own pursuit of happiness. Mental health symptoms get in the way, and medication management can reduce or eliminate those obstacles.
(573) 494-6712 View (573) 494-6712
Photo of Dr. Femi Popoola, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Femi Popoola
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
(573) 279-2951 View (573) 279-2951
Photo of Aisha Ahmouda, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aisha Ahmouda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203
As a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I use my skills and time optimally to maximize my therapeutic affect on patients. I prioritize taking the time to establish a good rapport. I tend to a patient's psychological health needs, as well as physical health needs, maintaining a holistic approach. Providing quality care, to me, is about spending my day, from start to finish, making a patient's care experience excellent. This philosophy coincides with my personal goal to maintain a high level of intrinsic motivation to do more than just the minimum required of me, each and every day.
As a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I use my skills and time optimally to maximize my therapeutic affect on patients. I prioritize taking the time to establish a good rapport. I tend to a patient's psychological health needs, as well as physical health needs, maintaining a holistic approach. Providing quality care, to me, is about spending my day, from start to finish, making a patient's care experience excellent. This philosophy coincides with my personal goal to maintain a high level of intrinsic motivation to do more than just the minimum required of me, each and every day.
(573) 463-6606 x1 View (573) 463-6606 x1
Photo of Moses Tabe Ambilichu - Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Success Health System, Worldwide Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
Success Health System strives to provide the best patient experience possible. We offer virtual and in-person services at convenient locations in Olathe, KS; Columbia, MO; Independence, MO; and Creve Coeur, MO. We will answer and schedule your appointment within 48 hours. Providers at Success Health System are passionate about providing patient-centered psychotropic and psychotherapeutic interventions that are individualized to each patient’s diagnosis.
(573) 269-3946 View (573) 269-3946
Photo of Ornela Ika, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ornela Ika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I’m Ornela Ika, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment for individuals facing mental health challenges. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and trauma. I work with patients across the spectrum of mental health disorders, with a strong focus on bipolar and depressive disorders. My goal is to provide tailored, compassionate care to help individuals navigate their unique challenges.
Hello, I’m Ornela Ika, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment for individuals facing mental health challenges. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and trauma. I work with patients across the spectrum of mental health disorders, with a strong focus on bipolar and depressive disorders. My goal is to provide tailored, compassionate care to help individuals navigate their unique challenges.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Venita Ninemire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Venita Ninemire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Kelly J Neland - Reflections Health Services, LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reflections Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
My name is Kelly Neland and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have completed graduate and post-graduate study in individual and family therapies, psychopharmacology, and psychological assessment and evaluation. I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive authority. Online appointment requests can be made at www.reflectionshealthservices.com.
(816) 744-1903 View (816) 744-1903

See more therapy options for Salisbury

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Salisbury, MO

< 10

Psychiatrists in Salisbury, MO who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Eating Disorders
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Grief

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Salisbury, MO see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Salisbury?

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.