Psychiatrists in 48105

Photo of Jasmine Cofield, PA, Physician Assistant
Jasmine Cofield
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Have you been trying to manage your mental health medications through your Primary Care Doctor and it doesn't seem to be working? Maybe you know medication could help but have not found one that offers more relief than side effects? Treating mental disorders like depression, anxiety, ADHD and others can be tricky. We offer sessions that provide enough time to do a thorough assessment of your medical health, offer DNA testing to find medication families that work best with your body, and collaborate with our clinicians when we need further assessments to provide you with the best results.
Have you been trying to manage your mental health medications through your Primary Care Doctor and it doesn't seem to be working? Maybe you know medication could help but have not found one that offers more relief than side effects? Treating mental disorders like depression, anxiety, ADHD and others can be tricky. We offer sessions that provide enough time to do a thorough assessment of your medical health, offer DNA testing to find medication families that work best with your body, and collaborate with our clinicians when we need further assessments to provide you with the best results.
(734) 821-2817 View (734) 821-2817
Photo of Lindsay Dunstan, MD, Psychiatrist
Lindsay Dunstan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Lindsay-Rose Dykema is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed her residency training at Columbia University. Lindsay-Rose is a queer psychiatrist and prison/police abolitionist who dabbles in narrative poetry and creative nonfiction. Her work has been published in psychiatric and leftist journals, poetry anthologies, and Slate Magazine. She will always offer a safe and affirming space. In her spare time, Lindsay-Rose enjoys yoga, running, writing, belting showtunes, petting cats.
Lindsay-Rose Dykema is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed her residency training at Columbia University. Lindsay-Rose is a queer psychiatrist and prison/police abolitionist who dabbles in narrative poetry and creative nonfiction. Her work has been published in psychiatric and leftist journals, poetry anthologies, and Slate Magazine. She will always offer a safe and affirming space. In her spare time, Lindsay-Rose enjoys yoga, running, writing, belting showtunes, petting cats.
(734) 849-4654 View (734) 849-4654
Photo of Ahmad w Zubairi - Family Care Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Family Care Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I am an experienced Psychiatrist with Board Certification in Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have experience working with different disorders however I have special interest in treating ADHD, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.I have experience working in small community hospitals to large academic centers.
I am an experienced Psychiatrist with Board Certification in Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have experience working with different disorders however I have special interest in treating ADHD, Mood disorders and Anxiety disorders.I have experience working in small community hospitals to large academic centers.
(734) 403-4267 View (734) 403-4267
Photo of Gloria Egeh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gloria Egeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Gloria Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. Gloria's treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them. In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.
Gloria Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. Gloria's treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them. In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.
(810) 442-4172 View (810) 442-4172
Photo of Craig Lemmen - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and we collaborate with our counseling specialists to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited and we can't work with patients in counseling with other providers.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Kristi Ramirez and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and we collaborate with our counseling specialists to help you to feel and function at your best. Our time is limited and we can't work with patients in counseling with other providers.
(734) 294-5776 View (734) 294-5776
Photo of Rajaprabhakaran Rajarethinam - Early Treatment Center, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
Early Treatment Center
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
We can provide an appointment within a week. Our center is focused on the early identification and treatment of major mental illnesses. We practice evidence based medicine and strive to minimize the use of multiple medications. We also conduct clinical research trials for multiple mental health conditions. We do not usually prescribe controlled substances that have addiction potential such as Xanax and Adderall.
We can provide an appointment within a week. Our center is focused on the early identification and treatment of major mental illnesses. We practice evidence based medicine and strive to minimize the use of multiple medications. We also conduct clinical research trials for multiple mental health conditions. We do not usually prescribe controlled substances that have addiction potential such as Xanax and Adderall.
(734) 219-0768 View (734) 219-0768
Photo of Dr. Jacek Debiec, MD, PhD, DPhil, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jacek Debiec
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, DPhil
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
For new patients, I offer appointments within one week. In urgent situations, I may offer a next-day appointment. I have 30 years of experience (the last 12 years as a University of Michigan psychiatry professor) in psychiatric practice in various settings, from emergency rooms and inpatient units to outpatient clinics and community services. I am also a trained psychotherapist. At the heart of my treatment approach is a close alliance and partnership with my patients and their families. I invite you to connect with me if you want to learn more.
For new patients, I offer appointments within one week. In urgent situations, I may offer a next-day appointment. I have 30 years of experience (the last 12 years as a University of Michigan psychiatry professor) in psychiatric practice in various settings, from emergency rooms and inpatient units to outpatient clinics and community services. I am also a trained psychotherapist. At the heart of my treatment approach is a close alliance and partnership with my patients and their families. I invite you to connect with me if you want to learn more.
(734) 349-3127 View (734) 349-3127
Photo of Laura Dansel, DNP, APRN-BC, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Dansel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
My practice is for psychotherapy only, I do not prescribe medication. I like to partner with clients to manage life's problems, build on their strengths, learn about themselves, and meet their life goals in a supportive, safe, non-judgmental, and respectful atmosphere. I am a former faculty member of the University of Michigan School of Nursing where I taught undergraduate and graduate level theory and clinical courses in psychiatric nursing. I have also taught graduate students at Michigan State University and practiced in a variety of settings.
My practice is for psychotherapy only, I do not prescribe medication. I like to partner with clients to manage life's problems, build on their strengths, learn about themselves, and meet their life goals in a supportive, safe, non-judgmental, and respectful atmosphere. I am a former faculty member of the University of Michigan School of Nursing where I taught undergraduate and graduate level theory and clinical courses in psychiatric nursing. I have also taught graduate students at Michigan State University and practiced in a variety of settings.
(734) 530-3230 View (734) 530-3230
Photo of Kristi Ramirez - Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Nicole Jones, Dr Lemmen and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and ongoing collaboration with you to find the right dose to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling may also be needed and we collaborate with our Best Fit Counseling specialists to meet your needs.
We have immediate openings anywhere in Michigan for child, adolescent or adult psychiatric and counseling services at times that work for you. Nicole Jones, Dr Lemmen and I will provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions regarding your best treatment options. For many problems medication can be an extremely helpful tool. We specialize in finding the right medication(s) and ongoing collaboration with you to find the right dose to help you to feel and function at your best. Counseling may also be needed and we collaborate with our Best Fit Counseling specialists to meet your needs.
(734) 294-5918 View (734) 294-5918
Photo of Rachael Blea, PA, Physician Assistant
Rachael Blea
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Are you tired of going to prescribing physicians that don't take time to listen to your concerns? Or may not have had good luck finding the right medication to minimize your symptoms? Finding the right provider and right medication can be tricky and having someone by your side while you figure it out that you both trust, and really listens is key to success! I take time my time with patients, getting to know them, and the symptoms they are having troubles with so we can work together to figure out the best solution.
Are you tired of going to prescribing physicians that don't take time to listen to your concerns? Or may not have had good luck finding the right medication to minimize your symptoms? Finding the right provider and right medication can be tricky and having someone by your side while you figure it out that you both trust, and really listens is key to success! I take time my time with patients, getting to know them, and the symptoms they are having troubles with so we can work together to figure out the best solution.
(734) 275-2303 View (734) 275-2303
Photo of Andrea Naaum, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrea Naaum
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Dr. Andrea Naaum is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2018. Dr. Naaum holds an honors bachelor's degree in biochemistry from the University of Windsor and her medical degree from Saba University School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatric residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program in 2018. Since then, she has worked in a community mental health setting involving both inpatient and outpatient work as well as more acute/specialized care in intensive outpatient programming and assertive community treatment teamwork.
Dr. Andrea Naaum is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2018. Dr. Naaum holds an honors bachelor's degree in biochemistry from the University of Windsor and her medical degree from Saba University School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatric residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program in 2018. Since then, she has worked in a community mental health setting involving both inpatient and outpatient work as well as more acute/specialized care in intensive outpatient programming and assertive community treatment teamwork.
(734) 441-2232 View (734) 441-2232
Photo of James Hillard, MD, Psychiatrist
James Hillard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Dr. Hillard is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has been Professor of Psychiatry at MSU, CMU, and University of Cincinnati. At UC, he was Chair of the Department of Psychiatry for 18 years. At MSU, he was Associate Provost for Human Health. He has published two books and over 100 papers on a wide range of psychiatric topics. He survived metastatic stomach cancer diagnosed in 2010 and is one of the 100 Stories of Hope for the 110th Anniversary of the American Cancer Society. He combines kindness and a sense of humor with wide ranging medical expertise.
Dr. Hillard is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has been Professor of Psychiatry at MSU, CMU, and University of Cincinnati. At UC, he was Chair of the Department of Psychiatry for 18 years. At MSU, he was Associate Provost for Human Health. He has published two books and over 100 papers on a wide range of psychiatric topics. He survived metastatic stomach cancer diagnosed in 2010 and is one of the 100 Stories of Hope for the 110th Anniversary of the American Cancer Society. He combines kindness and a sense of humor with wide ranging medical expertise.
(734) 821-4763 View (734) 821-4763
Photo of Angela Goodson, PMHNP, Psychiatrist
Angela Goodson
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Angela Goodson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has practicing since 2022. She has a Post Masters certification in Psychiatric Mental Health as a Nurse Practitioner. Angela's treatment philosophy is to build a partnership with each and every individual that is focused on developing a treatment plan together that aims to achieve remission of symptoms while improving quality and quantity of life. In her spare time, Angela enjoys running, biking, reading, and traveling.
Angela Goodson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has practicing since 2022. She has a Post Masters certification in Psychiatric Mental Health as a Nurse Practitioner. Angela's treatment philosophy is to build a partnership with each and every individual that is focused on developing a treatment plan together that aims to achieve remission of symptoms while improving quality and quantity of life. In her spare time, Angela enjoys running, biking, reading, and traveling.
(734) 396-8954 View (734) 396-8954
Photo of Robert Francis Slattery, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Francis Slattery
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I am a licensed MD and psychiatrist in the private practice of psychotherapy and psychiatry in Ann Arbor, Michigan with a special interest in Jungian psychotherapy. Services offered include psychotherapy, psychiatric diagnosis, and treatment. With more than 30 years in private practice, I have worked with people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities who are faced with serious challenges or just looking to live life in a better way, do the things they want to do and enjoy life more.
I am a licensed MD and psychiatrist in the private practice of psychotherapy and psychiatry in Ann Arbor, Michigan with a special interest in Jungian psychotherapy. Services offered include psychotherapy, psychiatric diagnosis, and treatment. With more than 30 years in private practice, I have worked with people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities who are faced with serious challenges or just looking to live life in a better way, do the things they want to do and enjoy life more.
(734) 224-5347 View (734) 224-5347
Photo of Philip Saragoza, MD, Psychiatrist
Philip Saragoza
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Not accepting new clients
I practice adult psychiatry, including medication management and psychotherapy, tailored to individual needs. I have particular expertise in working with individuals experiencing significant loss, life changes, and problems in the workplace. Prior to starting my practice, I spent several years assessing and treating individuals with legal problems and a variety of mental health issues, including extensive past trauma. I enjoy helping people to improve their quality of life through facilitating introspection and developing insight and skills for managing emotional issues.
I practice adult psychiatry, including medication management and psychotherapy, tailored to individual needs. I have particular expertise in working with individuals experiencing significant loss, life changes, and problems in the workplace. Prior to starting my practice, I spent several years assessing and treating individuals with legal problems and a variety of mental health issues, including extensive past trauma. I enjoy helping people to improve their quality of life through facilitating introspection and developing insight and skills for managing emotional issues.
(734) 530-3263 View (734) 530-3263
Photo of Jen Gonzalez, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jen Gonzalez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I believe in a holistic approach to mental health. Our mind and body are connected to make up who we are. Getting better is often hard work that requires commitment and patience. There will be times you may want to give up but know that I will be with you every step of the way. I listen with an open mind and will always work within your comfort level. My goal is to help you get well with as little medication as possible.
I believe in a holistic approach to mental health. Our mind and body are connected to make up who we are. Getting better is often hard work that requires commitment and patience. There will be times you may want to give up but know that I will be with you every step of the way. I listen with an open mind and will always work within your comfort level. My goal is to help you get well with as little medication as possible.
(517) 401-4188 View (517) 401-4188
Photo of Tiffany Johnson, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (Online Only)
I have worked with a variety of patient populations and have developed a broad spectrum of clinical knowledge. While non-pharmacological approaches may not be a good fit for every patient, I believe all effective treatments should be explored and patient centered. I believe Psychotropic medications and psychotherapy are a main stay treatment of mental illness. My focus is on the outpatient pharmacological treatment and assessment/evaluation of Mood Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Depression and Anxiety using the tele-psychiatry platform exclusively to provide care.
I have worked with a variety of patient populations and have developed a broad spectrum of clinical knowledge. While non-pharmacological approaches may not be a good fit for every patient, I believe all effective treatments should be explored and patient centered. I believe Psychotropic medications and psychotherapy are a main stay treatment of mental illness. My focus is on the outpatient pharmacological treatment and assessment/evaluation of Mood Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Depression and Anxiety using the tele-psychiatry platform exclusively to provide care.
(586) 333-3540 View (586) 333-3540
Photo of Rachel Santoro - Rachel Santoro, MD, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Rachel Santoro, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Each person seeking mental health care has a unique story. With my in-depth and personalized approach, we can get to the root of why you or your child are struggling with mental health symptoms. Compassionate, thoughtful, and personalized treatment allows for the most meaningful changes to be made.
Each person seeking mental health care has a unique story. With my in-depth and personalized approach, we can get to the root of why you or your child are struggling with mental health symptoms. Compassionate, thoughtful, and personalized treatment allows for the most meaningful changes to be made.
(734) 215-9412 View (734) 215-9412
Photo of Dorothy Gotlib - Dorothy Gotlib, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Dorothy Gotlib, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I believe that nurturing a collaborative physician-patient relationship is key to helping patients gain a deeper understanding of their mental health. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where patients can feel comfortable discussing their concerns. My treatment process involves learning about the issues most pressing to my patients. I believe in a tailored and integrated approach that utilizes psychotherapy (including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy), lifestyle modifications, psychiatric medications, and/or supplements.
I believe that nurturing a collaborative physician-patient relationship is key to helping patients gain a deeper understanding of their mental health. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where patients can feel comfortable discussing their concerns. My treatment process involves learning about the issues most pressing to my patients. I believe in a tailored and integrated approach that utilizes psychotherapy (including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy), lifestyle modifications, psychiatric medications, and/or supplements.
(734) 821-3226 View (734) 821-3226
Photo of Harry Rai, MD, Psychiatrist
Harry Rai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Currently accepting new patient consultations (Updated January 2024). I believe my role as a Psychiatrist is not to cure but instead to join my patients on their unique paths to mental wellness. Having trained at the University of Michigan, I take an evidence-based approach to mental health. However, in addition to traditional medication management, I have studied multiple forms of psychotherapy, opened myself to wellness-based methods, explored complex topics with patients from race to spirituality, and remain open to learning more approaches to mental healthcare.
Currently accepting new patient consultations (Updated January 2024). I believe my role as a Psychiatrist is not to cure but instead to join my patients on their unique paths to mental wellness. Having trained at the University of Michigan, I take an evidence-based approach to mental health. However, in addition to traditional medication management, I have studied multiple forms of psychotherapy, opened myself to wellness-based methods, explored complex topics with patients from race to spirituality, and remain open to learning more approaches to mental healthcare.
(734) 203-0117 View (734) 203-0117

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 48105

20+

Average cost per session

$285

Psychiatrists in 48105 who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
90% Medication Management
85% Anxiety
60% ADHD
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Bipolar Disorder
55% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

30 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
60% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 48105 see their clients

95% In Person and Online
5% Online Only

Gender breakdown

65% Female
35% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 48105?

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.