Psychiatrists in 46204
![Photo of Dr. Femi Akinsanya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d8f712f-78fa-4158-a9f8-49021929bd3c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Femi Akinsanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
![Photo of Timothy Poquette, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88e32cfb-c116-4112-aa53-b604a6c03cee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Timothy Poquette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have five years experience providing medication management services in inpatient, outpatient, and individual psychiatric treatment settings.
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have five years experience providing medication management services in inpatient, outpatient, and individual psychiatric treatment settings.
![Photo of William Andrew Garriott - Monumental Health LLC, PMHNP-B, MSN, BSN, BSBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a5e172b-ae62-49f9-9257-f986a0a1d284/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monumental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MSN, BSN, BSBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Andy is experienced in providing medication management along with supportive therapy for various psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to, mood disorders, anxiety disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, neurocognitive disorders, sleep disorder, and addiction.
Andy is experienced in providing medication management along with supportive therapy for various psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to, mood disorders, anxiety disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, neurocognitive disorders, sleep disorder, and addiction.
Amy Abuasabeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Amy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She's worked as a psychiatric nurse for many years, in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and is passionate about helping patients achieve their goals of mental and emotional wellness. She keeps abreast of the latest scientific advances in psychiatry to help her patients feel empowered and fulfilled.
Amy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She's worked as a psychiatric nurse for many years, in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and is passionate about helping patients achieve their goals of mental and emotional wellness. She keeps abreast of the latest scientific advances in psychiatry to help her patients feel empowered and fulfilled.
![Photo of Mario Padron - Focus ADHD Indianapolis, DO, JD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9371931-a2d1-4f01-bc09-051e346eb172/1/320x400.jpeg)
Focus ADHD Indianapolis
Psychiatrist, DO, JD, MPH
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Are you an adult struggling with ADHD? If so, you’re not alone. The providers at Focus ADHD specialize in the treatment of ADHD in adults, particularly working professionals. ADHD affects millions of adults in the US and worldwide. The good news is that Dr. Mario Padron helps individuals like yourself who struggle with ADHD. With a proper diagnosis and a customized treatment plan, you CAN live a less frustrating, more fulfilling life. Focus ADHD is committed to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental clinic where you feel comfortable to come and share your symptoms, struggles, and your concerns.
Are you an adult struggling with ADHD? If so, you’re not alone. The providers at Focus ADHD specialize in the treatment of ADHD in adults, particularly working professionals. ADHD affects millions of adults in the US and worldwide. The good news is that Dr. Mario Padron helps individuals like yourself who struggle with ADHD. With a proper diagnosis and a customized treatment plan, you CAN live a less frustrating, more fulfilling life. Focus ADHD is committed to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental clinic where you feel comfortable to come and share your symptoms, struggles, and your concerns.
![Photo of Benjamin May, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e886cd4-61e8-40cd-b419-4f442c8199bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.
I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.
![Photo of Tajuana Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22068d50-a8eb-4a2a-b20a-e17606d02b0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.
My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.
![Photo of Megan Boyer - Focus ADHD Indianapolis, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d76951-bacc-42bf-bddb-50b1ac0e98a9/1/320x400.png)
Focus ADHD Indianapolis
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Are you an adult struggling with ADHD? If so, you’re not alone. The providers at Focus ADHD specialize in the treatment of ADHD in adults, particularly working professionals. ADHD affects millions of adults in the US and worldwide. The good news is that Megan Boyer, PA-C helps individuals like yourself who struggle with ADHD. With a proper diagnosis and a customized treatment plan, you CAN live a less frustrating, more fulfilling life. Focus ADHD is committed to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental clinic where you feel comfortable to come and share your symptoms, struggles, and your concerns.
Are you an adult struggling with ADHD? If so, you’re not alone. The providers at Focus ADHD specialize in the treatment of ADHD in adults, particularly working professionals. ADHD affects millions of adults in the US and worldwide. The good news is that Megan Boyer, PA-C helps individuals like yourself who struggle with ADHD. With a proper diagnosis and a customized treatment plan, you CAN live a less frustrating, more fulfilling life. Focus ADHD is committed to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental clinic where you feel comfortable to come and share your symptoms, struggles, and your concerns.
![Photo of Rinkoo Sidhu, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10ed190e-6711-4414-8e2c-8962c246d8ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rinkoo Sidhu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Rinkoo Sidhu and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed in the states of Indiana, Texas, and California.
Hello, my name is Rinkoo Sidhu and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed in the states of Indiana, Texas, and California.
![Photo of Christopher Krumrei, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ff97e85-88cd-43d9-a935-a6a014095fd4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Krumrei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Hi. My name is Chris Krumrei. I am a nurse practitioner in Indianapolis Indiana. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I navigate the delicate intersection of mental health care and holistic patient well-being.
Hi. My name is Chris Krumrei. I am a nurse practitioner in Indianapolis Indiana. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I navigate the delicate intersection of mental health care and holistic patient well-being.
![Photo of Dustin Nowaskie, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1713e377-8f3e-450d-8f84-834495f56c32/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi all! I’m Dr. Dustin, a queer, nonbinary psychiatrist who is making waves in the world of LGBTQ+ healthcare. I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ people and communities. As the Founder, President, and Chief Medical Officer of OutCare Health, I help provide access to vital LGBTQ+ information, resources, programming, mentorship, training, research, and affirming care for millions across the country. I am committed to harnessing my lived experiences to promote and provide LGBTQ+ affirming care. With unwavering dedication and vision, I hope to transform the landscape of LGBTQ+ mental health care.
Hi all! I’m Dr. Dustin, a queer, nonbinary psychiatrist who is making waves in the world of LGBTQ+ healthcare. I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ people and communities. As the Founder, President, and Chief Medical Officer of OutCare Health, I help provide access to vital LGBTQ+ information, resources, programming, mentorship, training, research, and affirming care for millions across the country. I am committed to harnessing my lived experiences to promote and provide LGBTQ+ affirming care. With unwavering dedication and vision, I hope to transform the landscape of LGBTQ+ mental health care.
![Photo of Yahya Saeed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e5cc2e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am excited to announce that SinclairMethod is now providing online alcohol treatment to all residents of Texas and Indiana. The Sinclair Method (TSM) is an evidence-based treatment using the FDA-approved medication Naltrexone to gradually reduce problem drinking.
I am excited to announce that SinclairMethod is now providing online alcohol treatment to all residents of Texas and Indiana. The Sinclair Method (TSM) is an evidence-based treatment using the FDA-approved medication Naltrexone to gradually reduce problem drinking.
![Photo of Tanesha McWilliams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f43c2fc7-032c-49c6-b920-ffbbc4328f98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tanesha McWilliams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
![Photo of James Brown, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01949287-efa6-4287-a339-9e3cfdc0d97f/1/320x400.png)
James Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with James and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "Psychiatry has been a natural fit for me throughout my professional career. I have been a registered nurse since 1995, became a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015; I returned to Rush University in 2019 for a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am happy to be a part of the mental health care field as it evolves and becomes more effective and available! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone to scan this QR code:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with James and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "Psychiatry has been a natural fit for me throughout my professional career. I have been a registered nurse since 1995, became a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015; I returned to Rush University in 2019 for a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am happy to be a part of the mental health care field as it evolves and becomes more effective and available! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone to scan this QR code:
![Photo of Dr. Gayatri Singh, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d6c2812-e160-48ad-a207-06550751cdd2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gayatri Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
![Photo of Tejbir Ghuman, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6db5cbd-4bfa-4920-b80c-78fad853d771/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tejbir Ghuman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
I have years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various psychiatric diagnosis. I treat depression, anxiety, and mood disorders via my virtual platform. I do not treat ADHD/ADD symptoms, substance abuse, or prescribe any controlled substances via my virtual practice. Intake appointments generally take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour. I will complete a psychiatric evaluation and provide a diagnosis (if appropriate). We will then discuss a treatment plan and follow up. We will determine the need for medication management and individual therapy based on symptoms and needs.
I have years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various psychiatric diagnosis. I treat depression, anxiety, and mood disorders via my virtual platform. I do not treat ADHD/ADD symptoms, substance abuse, or prescribe any controlled substances via my virtual practice. Intake appointments generally take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour. I will complete a psychiatric evaluation and provide a diagnosis (if appropriate). We will then discuss a treatment plan and follow up. We will determine the need for medication management and individual therapy based on symptoms and needs.
![Photo of Jenna Shock, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ead16f8-94a9-4765-8e63-273544f0cdaa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Shock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
![Photo of Heather M Hare, PMHNP, LMHC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/144c6c59-8a47-426d-bd6a-878ebc36adb2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather M Hare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Are you an adult who is anxious, sad, irritable, or moody? Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you interested in medication to help better manage your symptoms? Please know you can feel better! I work with adults using medication to reduce symptoms, while employing a holistic approach, as recovery is more than just medicine! I also specialize in Perinatal Mood Disorders and am comfortable prescribing during this challenging time. You have safe options! My philosophy is that we are a team and will work together to help you feel better quickly! I am able to meet on a frequent basis if necessary, to help in a faster recovery.
Are you an adult who is anxious, sad, irritable, or moody? Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you interested in medication to help better manage your symptoms? Please know you can feel better! I work with adults using medication to reduce symptoms, while employing a holistic approach, as recovery is more than just medicine! I also specialize in Perinatal Mood Disorders and am comfortable prescribing during this challenging time. You have safe options! My philosophy is that we are a team and will work together to help you feel better quickly! I am able to meet on a frequent basis if necessary, to help in a faster recovery.
See more therapy options for 46204
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 46204
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 46204 who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
61% | ADHD |
61% | Bipolar Disorder |
56% | Trauma and PTSD |
56% | Sleep or Insomnia |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
85% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 46204 see their clients
77% | Online Only | |
23% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Male | |
42% | Female | |
8% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 46204?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.