Psychiatrists in Kenosha, WI

Imelda N Forsberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, FPA-IL
1 Endorsed
Kenosha, WI 53142
I believe that each individual can develop skills to manage their mental health when given options and resources. I understand the value of listening and the need to be validated. "Together We Can" explore evidence-based treatment options and alternatives for Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, ADHD, Dementia/Alzheimer's Disease, Sleep disorders, and Grief.
I believe that each individual can develop skills to manage their mental health when given options and resources. I understand the value of listening and the need to be validated. "Together We Can" explore evidence-based treatment options and alternatives for Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, ADHD, Dementia/Alzheimer's Disease, Sleep disorders, and Grief.
(262) 584-4414 View (262) 584-4414
Photo of Brian J. Reynolds, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, PMHNP
Brian J. Reynolds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Wisconsin. I received my Masters from the Walden University and have been practicing for 5 years. My expertise is in treat individuals between the ages of 6-65. My expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions that include mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and insomnia.
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Wisconsin. I received my Masters from the Walden University and have been practicing for 5 years. My expertise is in treat individuals between the ages of 6-65. My expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions that include mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and insomnia.
(262) 476-7848 View (262) 476-7848
Photo of Dorothy Kozakowski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dorothy Kozakowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Kenosha, WI 53142
Dr. Dorothy Kozakowski is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner She holds a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Kozakowski is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience. Dr. Kozakowski's career has taken her on a journey through the healthcare system.
Dr. Dorothy Kozakowski is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner She holds a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Kozakowski is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience. Dr. Kozakowski's career has taken her on a journey through the healthcare system.
(262) 537-5232 View (262) 537-5232
Photo of Annette Bale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Annette Bale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kenosha, WI 53142
Annette Bale is an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner serving children and adolescents across Wisconsin. Specializing in medication management, Annette helps young patients manage a range of mental health concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and childhood behavior issues. She understands the unique challenges that children and teens face, providing personalized care that empowers families to navigate complex emotional and behavioral health situations.
Annette Bale is an experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner serving children and adolescents across Wisconsin. Specializing in medication management, Annette helps young patients manage a range of mental health concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and childhood behavior issues. She understands the unique challenges that children and teens face, providing personalized care that empowers families to navigate complex emotional and behavioral health situations.
(262) 288-2930 View (262) 288-2930
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Kenosha, WI 53142
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(262) 588-3760 View (262) 588-3760
Photo of Christine Foster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Christine Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Kenosha, WI 53142
Christine Foster is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2001. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University for PMHNP and UIC for FNP. Christine's experience is wide and varied, with expertise in child/adolescent psychiatry, ages 5 years and older, adult psychiatry, and substance use disorders. She offers compassionate care and integrity in her professional relationships with children/families and adults, which include pregnant women and those over age 65. Christine is also registered with the Clozapine REMS program.
Christine Foster is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2001. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University for PMHNP and UIC for FNP. Christine's experience is wide and varied, with expertise in child/adolescent psychiatry, ages 5 years and older, adult psychiatry, and substance use disorders. She offers compassionate care and integrity in her professional relationships with children/families and adults, which include pregnant women and those over age 65. Christine is also registered with the Clozapine REMS program.
(262) 667-5337 View (262) 667-5337
Photo of Shalini Varma - Shalini Varma, M.D., Psychiatrist, Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy
Shalini Varma, M.D.
Psychiatrist, Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy
Kenosha, WI 53142
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(224) 612-2348 View (224) 612-2348
Photo of Regina Van Gorden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, PMHNP
Regina Van Gorden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I am accepting new patients, and typically have availability within 1-2 weeks. As the sole provider in my practice, I am able to offer personalized care that you won't receive though a larger practice. It's important that I understand how your mental health is affecting all aspects of your life, so that we can work together to develop a plan that works for YOU. I have a special interest in helping those struggling with occupational and/or academic stress including first responders, nurses, therapists, teachers and students. I also have experience treating both Moms and Dads with postpartum depression and anxiety.
Hello! I am accepting new patients, and typically have availability within 1-2 weeks. As the sole provider in my practice, I am able to offer personalized care that you won't receive though a larger practice. It's important that I understand how your mental health is affecting all aspects of your life, so that we can work together to develop a plan that works for YOU. I have a special interest in helping those struggling with occupational and/or academic stress including first responders, nurses, therapists, teachers and students. I also have experience treating both Moms and Dads with postpartum depression and anxiety.
(262) 300-5271 View (262) 300-5271
Photo of Allen Rindfleisch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Allen Rindfleisch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with several years of clinical experience.
Accepting New Patients. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with several years of clinical experience.
(262) 279-7511 View (262) 279-7511
Photo of Taylor McDowell, Physician Assistant, PA-C, Psych
Taylor McDowell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, Psych
Online Only
Taylor McDowell is a compassionate psychiatric physician assistant committed to improving his patients' mental health and well-being. With a Certification of Additional Qualifications (CAQ) in psychiatry, Taylor brings a wealth of expertise to his role as a psychiatric provider. His areas of specialization include general psychiatric disorders, with a focus on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, sleep disorders, and ADHD. Taylor's approach to patient care is comprehensive and individualized, ensuring that each patient receives the best treatment tailored to their needs.
Taylor McDowell is a compassionate psychiatric physician assistant committed to improving his patients' mental health and well-being. With a Certification of Additional Qualifications (CAQ) in psychiatry, Taylor brings a wealth of expertise to his role as a psychiatric provider. His areas of specialization include general psychiatric disorders, with a focus on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, sleep disorders, and ADHD. Taylor's approach to patient care is comprehensive and individualized, ensuring that each patient receives the best treatment tailored to their needs.
(414) 897-9701 View (414) 897-9701
Photo of Jeremy Kaup, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APNP
Jeremy Kaup
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber with a Master's Degree of Science in Nursing. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in providing a holistic approach to my patients that includes medication. I look at medication management as a collaboration and look for input from you to make decisions together. I have a background as a nurse in emergency medicine. I provide care to children 6 and up, adolescents and adults. My focus is on the diagnosis and medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, and PTSD.
I am an Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber with a Master's Degree of Science in Nursing. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in providing a holistic approach to my patients that includes medication. I look at medication management as a collaboration and look for input from you to make decisions together. I have a background as a nurse in emergency medicine. I provide care to children 6 and up, adolescents and adults. My focus is on the diagnosis and medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, and PTSD.
(262) 476-7585 View (262) 476-7585
Photo of Kenya Robertson - Wisconsin Healthcare Network, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Wisconsin Healthcare Network
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We strive to improve the mental wellbeing of each person with whom we come in contact with by providing holistic care. “We aspire to bring Excellence for Extraordinary People”
We strive to improve the mental wellbeing of each person with whom we come in contact with by providing holistic care. “We aspire to bring Excellence for Extraordinary People”
(414) 310-6602 View (414) 310-6602
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
View
Photo of Mark Bender, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Mark Bender
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I graduated from USC in 1988. With over 35 years of experience as a physician assistant in a variety of health care settings, I am committed to the whole person concept and improving the quality of life of patients with complex medical conditions and their family members in various settings. My goal is to help patients from all walks of life navigate their complex world by listening to them in order to live a healthier and well-balanced life.
I graduated from USC in 1988. With over 35 years of experience as a physician assistant in a variety of health care settings, I am committed to the whole person concept and improving the quality of life of patients with complex medical conditions and their family members in various settings. My goal is to help patients from all walks of life navigate their complex world by listening to them in order to live a healthier and well-balanced life.
(920) 945-6188 View (920) 945-6188

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Volker Nabavi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
(414) 928-7606 View (414) 928-7606
Photo of Dr. James Winston, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. James Winston
Psychiatrist, MD
Milwaukee, WI 53220
My passion is helping people with Depression. I want my patients to feel empowered because their symptoms leave them feeling powerless. One of my most important roles as a psychiatrist is to instill hope for my patients. Depression is treatable, and with TMS therapy along with medication management, we have even more options for patients who struggle.
My passion is helping people with Depression. I want my patients to feel empowered because their symptoms leave them feeling powerless. One of my most important roles as a psychiatrist is to instill hope for my patients. Depression is treatable, and with TMS therapy along with medication management, we have even more options for patients who struggle.
(414) 310-7840 View (414) 310-7840
Photo of Sina Sannes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sina Sannes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Sina Benedict, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with 20+ years of health care experience I really know how people want their care delivered. I believe people do the best they can where they are. I pride myself on my highly engaged patient-centered approach. I am very straightforward while also using humor to navigate this thing we call life.
My name is Sina Benedict, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with 20+ years of health care experience I really know how people want their care delivered. I believe people do the best they can where they are. I pride myself on my highly engaged patient-centered approach. I am very straightforward while also using humor to navigate this thing we call life.
(414) 420-0196 View (414) 420-0196
Photo of Jamie Rooney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Jamie Rooney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
My ideal client seeks support for challenges like anxiety, depression, or life transitions. They need a compassionate listener who values their unique experiences and goals. They aim to feel heard, understood, and empowered to build resilience and achieve emotional well-being.
My ideal client seeks support for challenges like anxiety, depression, or life transitions. They need a compassionate listener who values their unique experiences and goals. They aim to feel heard, understood, and empowered to build resilience and achieve emotional well-being.
(414) 295-9571 View (414) 295-9571
Photo of Wanda Cegers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP
Wanda Cegers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Wanda Cegers, PMHNPBC, is a BoardCertified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals of all ages across Wisconsin manage a wide range of mental health conditions. With a strong focus on medication management and case management, Wanda uses a holistic approach that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of mental health. She is passionate about creating a compassionate and supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take control of their mental health journey. Wanda specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, as well as PTSD and traumarelated issues.
Wanda Cegers, PMHNPBC, is a BoardCertified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals of all ages across Wisconsin manage a wide range of mental health conditions. With a strong focus on medication management and case management, Wanda uses a holistic approach that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of mental health. She is passionate about creating a compassionate and supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take control of their mental health journey. Wanda specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, as well as PTSD and traumarelated issues.
(414) 626-7673 View (414) 626-7673
Photo of Christopher Wojnar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, PMHNP
Christopher Wojnar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Serving clients in Wisconsin. My passion is supporting healthcare professionals, first responders, individuals with lived experience of suicide, and those facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and trauma. I help by providing empathetic, goal-oriented care that focuses on building skills and promoting long-term mental well-being. My approach combines evidence-based practices with compassion, creating a safe, supportive environment for healing and growth. In our first sessions, you can expect a nonjudgmental space to share your story. We'll go over a lifestyle snapshot and complete your stress score.
Serving clients in Wisconsin. My passion is supporting healthcare professionals, first responders, individuals with lived experience of suicide, and those facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and trauma. I help by providing empathetic, goal-oriented care that focuses on building skills and promoting long-term mental well-being. My approach combines evidence-based practices with compassion, creating a safe, supportive environment for healing and growth. In our first sessions, you can expect a nonjudgmental space to share your story. We'll go over a lifestyle snapshot and complete your stress score.
(608) 912-3905 View (608) 912-3905

See more therapy options for Kenosha

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kenosha, WI

10+

Average cost per session

$149

Psychiatrists in Kenosha, WI who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
93% Depression
93% Trauma and PTSD
93% Sleep or Insomnia
86% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
79% Medication Management

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% Other

How Psychiatrists in Kenosha, WI see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kenosha?

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.