Psychiatrists in Green Lake, WI

Photo of Kellie Helmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kellie Helmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Green Lake, WI 54941
Welcome! I am accepting new patients. Telehealth is preferred, but exceptions may be made for in-person visits depending upon the need. Cash payments and insurance accepted. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner,  I am able to prescribe medications, provide simple therapy, and/or refer you to the most-effective therapy for you. I want your voice to feel heard and your concerns are my concerns.
Welcome! I am accepting new patients. Telehealth is preferred, but exceptions may be made for in-person visits depending upon the need. Cash payments and insurance accepted. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner,  I am able to prescribe medications, provide simple therapy, and/or refer you to the most-effective therapy for you. I want your voice to feel heard and your concerns are my concerns.
(920) 315-9090 View (920) 315-9090

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Bethany Harper, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bethany Harper
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Amy Dice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amy Dice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oshkosh, WI 54901
Amy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients eighteen and older. Her background of more than fifteen years of experience in medicine offers her a wealth of first-hand knowledge, giving her an unmatched skillset in both understanding medical systems and in providing mental health care.
Amy is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) serving patients eighteen and older. Her background of more than fifteen years of experience in medicine offers her a wealth of first-hand knowledge, giving her an unmatched skillset in both understanding medical systems and in providing mental health care.
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Photo of Michelle Wolff, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Michelle Wolff
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
4 Endorsed
Beaver Dam, WI 53916
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
Are you looking for a Psychiatry provider that listens to you and includes you in the your treatment plan? Are you looking for a compassionate, non-judgemental psychiatry provider that provides a comfortable, safe environment to meet? Do you want to feel empowered knowing you are on the proper medications and therapies to overcome your struggles, and turn around your life?
(630) 593-7720 View (630) 593-7720
Photo of Kate Meine - Kate Meine Roots and Roads Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNM
Kate Meine Roots and Roads Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNM
Oshkosh, WI 54902
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about working with people to reach their full potential. I help people reconnect to their mental and physical health. I am trained as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner as well as a Certified Nurse Midwife. My care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for highly individualized treatment in a non-judgmental and empathetic space. A thorough medical and psychiatric history will be obtained and together we will decide the best treatment options.
I am passionate about working with people to reach their full potential. I help people reconnect to their mental and physical health. I am trained as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner as well as a Certified Nurse Midwife. My care philosophy integrates mental and physical health for highly individualized treatment in a non-judgmental and empathetic space. A thorough medical and psychiatric history will be obtained and together we will decide the best treatment options.
(414) 206-1643 View (414) 206-1643
Photo of Susan Brust, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Brust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Psychiatric Advance Practice Nurse with 20 years of experience working with adult clients needing medication as a treatment. I have worked with several different Mental health symptoms and conditions and believe in care of the whole person. Medications may be helpful and can be worth exploring; and I will be happy to discuss those options that are best for your situation. Medications may not be the entire answer to wellness and just one piece to a complete treatment plan that involves several aspects of care; but sometimes they are the one piece that helps move the pieces together into a viable working plan.
Psychiatric Advance Practice Nurse with 20 years of experience working with adult clients needing medication as a treatment. I have worked with several different Mental health symptoms and conditions and believe in care of the whole person. Medications may be helpful and can be worth exploring; and I will be happy to discuss those options that are best for your situation. Medications may not be the entire answer to wellness and just one piece to a complete treatment plan that involves several aspects of care; but sometimes they are the one piece that helps move the pieces together into a viable working plan.
Photo of Dana Lehrer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Dana Lehrer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Oshkosh, WI 54902
Roots and Roads Wellness COMING soon to Oshkosh. Opening in March/April! My passions with in the field of mental health include: anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders and depression. Children and adolescents to young adults are of special interest, as I know first hand what a difference medication,advocacy and coping strategies can mean to a family who is struggling. I have worked to create a comfortable, inviting space for patients to share. My prior experience in residential care, mental health, corrections, family practice have lead to passionate patient advocacy and trauma informed care.
Roots and Roads Wellness COMING soon to Oshkosh. Opening in March/April! My passions with in the field of mental health include: anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders and depression. Children and adolescents to young adults are of special interest, as I know first hand what a difference medication,advocacy and coping strategies can mean to a family who is struggling. I have worked to create a comfortable, inviting space for patients to share. My prior experience in residential care, mental health, corrections, family practice have lead to passionate patient advocacy and trauma informed care.
(920) 672-1908 View (920) 672-1908
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Jennifer Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, APRN, ARNP
Jennifer Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, APRN, ARNP
Online Only
Hello! I’m a Nurse Practitioner certified in Psychiatry and Family Practice. I have been practicing since 2013. I am comfortable at managing a wide range of mental health and addiction issues. I will do my best to get to know your life situation; health issues; hobbies; interests; and stressors. I would like us to work together as a team. Initially visits will be more frequent (every 2-4 weeks) so we can optimize your medications and get you feeling better as quickly as possible. Outside of work; I enjoy the outdoors- camping; hiking; and running.
Hello! I’m a Nurse Practitioner certified in Psychiatry and Family Practice. I have been practicing since 2013. I am comfortable at managing a wide range of mental health and addiction issues. I will do my best to get to know your life situation; health issues; hobbies; interests; and stressors. I would like us to work together as a team. Initially visits will be more frequent (every 2-4 weeks) so we can optimize your medications and get you feeling better as quickly as possible. Outside of work; I enjoy the outdoors- camping; hiking; and running.

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Elizabeth Lindner - Mental Health for Women: Medication Management, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APNP
Mental Health for Women: Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APNP
Madison, WI 53716
I provide counseling and psychiatric medication management. I am also a Mindfulness practitioner and teach Mindfulness Meditation which is enormously beneficial for well-being and healing from within. I collaborate with the person I see regarding medication options. It's important that I understand my patient's story and experience in order to select appropriate medication/s. My specialities includes working with people with anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders (ADD), mood disorders such as depression, and PTSD.
I provide counseling and psychiatric medication management. I am also a Mindfulness practitioner and teach Mindfulness Meditation which is enormously beneficial for well-being and healing from within. I collaborate with the person I see regarding medication options. It's important that I understand my patient's story and experience in order to select appropriate medication/s. My specialities includes working with people with anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders (ADD), mood disorders such as depression, and PTSD.
(608) 493-1293 View (608) 493-1293
Photo of Dr. Larry Sprung, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Larry Sprung
Psychiatrist, MD
Milwaukee, WI 53226
My main objective is to provide the highest level of psychiatric care to all his patients. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for patients to work through their concerns as opportunities for healing, gaining purpose, and growth in a more meaningful way. Working together with my patients, I address any challenges related to biological, psychological. emotional, social, or relational. I employ a biopsychosocial model, working in close collaboration with therapists and other members of the patient’s treatment team.
My main objective is to provide the highest level of psychiatric care to all his patients. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for patients to work through their concerns as opportunities for healing, gaining purpose, and growth in a more meaningful way. Working together with my patients, I address any challenges related to biological, psychological. emotional, social, or relational. I employ a biopsychosocial model, working in close collaboration with therapists and other members of the patient’s treatment team.
(414) 348-9738 View (414) 348-9738
Photo of Ann Barbaro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ann Barbaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
Accepting New Patients! I consider myself lucky to work in health care at a time when mental health diagnoses are becoming more accepted and better understood in our culture. I firmly believe that optimal health cannot be attained without giving adequate attention to mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients and direct their care with understanding and compassion. My hope is that the care I provide will ease my patients’ struggles and empower them to live to the fullest degree.
(262) 587-6075 View (262) 587-6075
Photo of Dr. Jay Winston, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Jay Winston
Psychiatrist, DO
Mequon, WI 53092
Accepting New Patients. Dr. I am a Licensed Physician with a specialty in Psychiatry. I am Board-Certified in Psychiatry and have been practicing in Wisconsin for over 28 years in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Years of experience have deepened my knowledge and understanding of individuals who strive to grow, to heal, and to realize their unique potentials. My outpatient patient treatment includes evaluating and treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other problem areas.
Accepting New Patients. Dr. I am a Licensed Physician with a specialty in Psychiatry. I am Board-Certified in Psychiatry and have been practicing in Wisconsin for over 28 years in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Years of experience have deepened my knowledge and understanding of individuals who strive to grow, to heal, and to realize their unique potentials. My outpatient patient treatment includes evaluating and treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other problem areas.
(262) 475-1836 View (262) 475-1836
Photo of Juila Jaster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BSN, RN, APNP, PMHNPBC
Juila Jaster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BSN, RN, APNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53226
I am a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a unique background in critical care nursing. I have been working in an Intensive Care Unit for the last seven years. My work there led me to my passion for mental health and my desire to destigmatize mental health and advocate for patient empowerment. I believe in the importance of building strong therapeutic relationships and fostering open communication with my patients to ensure the best outcomes. I am committed to creating safe, supportive environments where patients feel heard and empowered to participate in their own care.
I am a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a unique background in critical care nursing. I have been working in an Intensive Care Unit for the last seven years. My work there led me to my passion for mental health and my desire to destigmatize mental health and advocate for patient empowerment. I believe in the importance of building strong therapeutic relationships and fostering open communication with my patients to ensure the best outcomes. I am committed to creating safe, supportive environments where patients feel heard and empowered to participate in their own care.
(414) 742-7944 View (414) 742-7944
Photo of Tatyana Siminak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Tatyana Siminak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Mequon, WI 53092
Tatyana is passionate about providing respectful, compassionate, culturally sensitive, and excellent services. She strives to make her clients feel comfortable to share the most vulnerable and intimate details. Tatyana is here to help you in this challenging journey. She sees herself as your partner in recovering from mental health illnesses. Tatyana aims to create a positive therapeutic relationship based on a patient-centered collaborative model. Outside of work, Tatyana enjoys spending time with her family and dogs. She loves reading, cooking, gardening, traveling, and exploring the world.
Tatyana is passionate about providing respectful, compassionate, culturally sensitive, and excellent services. She strives to make her clients feel comfortable to share the most vulnerable and intimate details. Tatyana is here to help you in this challenging journey. She sees herself as your partner in recovering from mental health illnesses. Tatyana aims to create a positive therapeutic relationship based on a patient-centered collaborative model. Outside of work, Tatyana enjoys spending time with her family and dogs. She loves reading, cooking, gardening, traveling, and exploring the world.
(262) 384-5694 View (262) 384-5694
Photo of Dr. Ariela Karasov, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ariela Karasov
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Ariela Karasov completed her psychiatry residency at Stanford, serving as Chief Resident in her final year, and pursued a fellowship in Neuropsychiatry at Stanford Hospital. She is board certified in Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry and has worked as a National Expert in bipolar disorder at the VA. She has experience treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and Depression, as well as patients with comorbid neurologic and mental health conditions. Dr. Karasov has also taught residents as adjunct clinical faculty at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics.
Dr. Ariela Karasov completed her psychiatry residency at Stanford, serving as Chief Resident in her final year, and pursued a fellowship in Neuropsychiatry at Stanford Hospital. She is board certified in Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry and has worked as a National Expert in bipolar disorder at the VA. She has experience treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and Depression, as well as patients with comorbid neurologic and mental health conditions. Dr. Karasov has also taught residents as adjunct clinical faculty at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Anthony Dobner, Psychiatrist, MD
Anthony Dobner
Psychiatrist, MD
Waukesha, WI 53188
Anthony Dobner, MD, is dedicated to helping children, teens, and their families navigate the complexities of mental health challenges. Practicing in Wisconsin, Dr. Dobner specializes in medication management and works closely with families to ensure a comprehensive approach to treatment. His focus extends to children aged 017, particularly those dealing with conditions such as OCD, social anxiety, mood disorders, and eating disorders. Dr. Dobner believes in fostering a collaborative environment that considers the intricate connections within a family and community, essential for effective care.
Anthony Dobner, MD, is dedicated to helping children, teens, and their families navigate the complexities of mental health challenges. Practicing in Wisconsin, Dr. Dobner specializes in medication management and works closely with families to ensure a comprehensive approach to treatment. His focus extends to children aged 017, particularly those dealing with conditions such as OCD, social anxiety, mood disorders, and eating disorders. Dr. Dobner believes in fostering a collaborative environment that considers the intricate connections within a family and community, essential for effective care.
(262) 233-1220 View (262) 233-1220
Photo of Barbra A Nevala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Barbra A Nevala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Milwaukee, WI 53215
I really enjoy working with people who are invested in making long-term changes to improve mental "wellness." Many people living in WI experience mental health changes going into the winter season. I am here to support & guide you if you are seeking motivation for change!
I really enjoy working with people who are invested in making long-term changes to improve mental "wellness." Many people living in WI experience mental health changes going into the winter season. I am here to support & guide you if you are seeking motivation for change!
(715) 288-2908 View (715) 288-2908
Photo of Carolyn Davidson, Psychiatric Nurse, RN, BSN, PMHNPBC
Carolyn Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, BSN, PMHNPBC
Elm Grove, WI 53122
My strength is my ability to build a strong rapport with her patients. Effective communication with patients is a priority, and I take the time with each patient, I ensure all questions and concerns are addressed. I personally strive to make all patients feel respected, welcomed, and valued while treating symptoms and meeting treatment goals.
My strength is my ability to build a strong rapport with her patients. Effective communication with patients is a priority, and I take the time with each patient, I ensure all questions and concerns are addressed. I personally strive to make all patients feel respected, welcomed, and valued while treating symptoms and meeting treatment goals.
(262) 686-4927 View (262) 686-4927
Photo of Monika Zawadzka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Monika Zawadzka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Madison, WI 53713
Monika Zawadzka is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. Monika believes she can help her clients by listening to their concerns, educating them about their illness and medications, and by including them in the process of developing a treatment plan. They are more likely to respond better to treatment when they understand it and when they are a part of the team. Outside of work, Monika enjoys hiking, biking, reading, writing, and spending time with family and friends.
Monika Zawadzka is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. Monika believes she can help her clients by listening to their concerns, educating them about their illness and medications, and by including them in the process of developing a treatment plan. They are more likely to respond better to treatment when they understand it and when they are a part of the team. Outside of work, Monika enjoys hiking, biking, reading, writing, and spending time with family and friends.
(608) 736-1381 View (608) 736-1381

Nearby Searches for Green Lake

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Green Lake, WI

< 10

Psychiatrists in Green Lake, WI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Behavioral Issues
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Green Lake, WI 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 Green Lake?

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.