Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN
![Photo of Lauren Alcorn, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88dc2436-817f-4a33-b8e0-e9e9fd83e217/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Alcorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, certified nutritionist and wellness coach, and I believe that with the right support everyone is capable of feeling better. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, certified nutritionist and wellness coach, and I believe that with the right support everyone is capable of feeling better. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32978798-d352-4450-82dc-21248cb6c909/1/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40925e26-7c0c-4658-994b-2aaed278df10/1/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Nikki Gaines, APRN, MBA, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41362ea9-9387-4990-aebb-b86b4a332116/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Gaines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MBA, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46206 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
![Photo of Heidi Needler, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82c0ca34-b3ed-400c-be8e-aec6302c2bd8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Needler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana. Since 2022, Heidi has been working alongside clients in a variety of mental health settings – outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization. Prior to achieving her NP, Heidi was a practicing RN for 14yrs. She has been nominated for a Daisy Award for her compassion, warmth, and attentive care. Heidi provides holistic care with a focus on mental health disorders. Her passion is partnering with patients experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, as well as psychosis/schizophrenia to improve their quality of life.
Heidi Needler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana. Since 2022, Heidi has been working alongside clients in a variety of mental health settings – outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization. Prior to achieving her NP, Heidi was a practicing RN for 14yrs. She has been nominated for a Daisy Award for her compassion, warmth, and attentive care. Heidi provides holistic care with a focus on mental health disorders. Her passion is partnering with patients experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, as well as psychosis/schizophrenia to improve their quality of life.
![Photo of Malinda Butler, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85124c1c-05db-47d3-b3b3-a84708dc9625/1/320x400.jpeg)
Malinda Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46205 (Online Only)
I'm excited to be a part of your journey in providing support to individuals facing various challenges in their lives. From depression and anxiety to trauma, ADHD/ADD, and work-related issues, I'm here to assist them on their path to healing and growth. I'm particularly passionate about advocating for inclusive care for individuals from all walks of life, including the LGBTQAI+ community. Instantly book a appointment with me by clicking on my website to the right.
I'm excited to be a part of your journey in providing support to individuals facing various challenges in their lives. From depression and anxiety to trauma, ADHD/ADD, and work-related issues, I'm here to assist them on their path to healing and growth. I'm particularly passionate about advocating for inclusive care for individuals from all walks of life, including the LGBTQAI+ community. Instantly book a appointment with me by clicking on my website to the right.
![Photo of Jerri Molina, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e9b5734-f066-4c59-817a-f28c00df540e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jerri Molina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Indiana and Kentucky since 2015. I have been in nursing and healthcare for over 28 years. I am comfortable treating children to older adults.
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Indiana and Kentucky since 2015. I have been in nursing and healthcare for over 28 years. I am comfortable treating children to older adults.
![Photo of Heather Lett With Innate Way Wellness, MSN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/780a42ea-734b-4a41-9033-c18562008625/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Lett With Innate Way Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes given the right support, everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles. I love learning about my clients and how best to serve them! I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes given the right support, everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles. I love learning about my clients and how best to serve them! I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
![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 Keegan Crocker - PhaseForward, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a66f8b4c-826a-4553-a5b7-cd533d8dbe7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
PhaseForward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46216
Our mission is to provide quality, compassionate, and evidenced-based mental health treatment by promoting forward personal growth and psychological health. We seek to empower our clients to confront individual barriers throughout different phases of life with the goal of reducing and/or eliminating symptoms. We collaborate with our clients to tailor interventions specific to their individual needs.
Our mission is to provide quality, compassionate, and evidenced-based mental health treatment by promoting forward personal growth and psychological health. We seek to empower our clients to confront individual barriers throughout different phases of life with the goal of reducing and/or eliminating symptoms. We collaborate with our clients to tailor interventions specific to their individual needs.
![Photo of Auggy Hone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ab244e3-ba54-463f-83c3-1147f19c04d1/2/320x400.png)
Auggy Hone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Auggy, and I am a PMHNP specializing in mood, anxiolytic, and addiction disorders. A special focus and interest in PTSD and OCD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients. This means we work together to solidify a treatment plan, including the use of medications if necessary. While I may have expertise in this area, I believe that you are the expert when it comes to your health. Therefore, your input during our sessions is of most importance. My goals at the end of the day are to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with your medication regimen while experiencing minimal to no side-effects.
Hello! My name is Auggy, and I am a PMHNP specializing in mood, anxiolytic, and addiction disorders. A special focus and interest in PTSD and OCD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients. This means we work together to solidify a treatment plan, including the use of medications if necessary. While I may have expertise in this area, I believe that you are the expert when it comes to your health. Therefore, your input during our sessions is of most importance. My goals at the end of the day are to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with your medication regimen while experiencing minimal to no side-effects.
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![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.
![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 Magdalene Bambo, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac0c6077-5d23-4040-a0f1-2971d3d914fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magdalene Bambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program from Indiana University-Purdue University, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Cum Laude, from Indiana State University. Magdalene provides quality evidence-based approaches that is unique and personalized to the need of each client. She partners with her clients to provide safe, empathetic treatment in a non-judgmental manner.
Magdalene Bambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program from Indiana University-Purdue University, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Cum Laude, from Indiana State University. Magdalene provides quality evidence-based approaches that is unique and personalized to the need of each client. She partners with her clients to provide safe, empathetic treatment in a non-judgmental manner.
![Photo of Katherine Monica Kelly, RN MSN , FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58c2c623-59a4-48d4-80bb-5fd47b020413/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Monica Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN MSN , FNP-C
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260 (Online Only)
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages. Our minds and bodies work together and when one area is not healthy, other areas can struggle as well. My goal is to assist in rebuilding a healthier and happier person inside and out.
I am a Family Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages. Our minds and bodies work together and when one area is not healthy, other areas can struggle as well. My goal is to assist in rebuilding a healthier and happier person inside and out.
![Photo of Jennifer Vandivier, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34d92777-dc54-46a4-8b0e-221df6c65a9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Vandivier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hello! I'm Jennifer Vandivier, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing individualized mental health care. The most important part of my job is listening to you. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel empowered to explore your thoughts, emotions and concerns. My approach is holistic and collaborative, working closely with you as we develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals. I will also engage with you about alternative and natural treatment remedies.
Hello! I'm Jennifer Vandivier, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing individualized mental health care. The most important part of my job is listening to you. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel empowered to explore your thoughts, emotions and concerns. My approach is holistic and collaborative, working closely with you as we develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals. I will also engage with you about alternative and natural treatment remedies.
![Photo of Nick Kelly, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c01b7ba-8928-4281-928f-3d578c92c82c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and thank you so much for visiting my page! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, addiction, and mood disorders. As a mental health provider I believe it's my duty to legitimize and de-stigmatize mental health. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD for most of their lives, but haven't been given the time, attention, or resources they need to thrive and live their best lives. During our visits we will discuss medication management, but we will also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give "homework" and real world tips/tricks to work on between our visits.
Hello and thank you so much for visiting my page! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, addiction, and mood disorders. As a mental health provider I believe it's my duty to legitimize and de-stigmatize mental health. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD for most of their lives, but haven't been given the time, attention, or resources they need to thrive and live their best lives. During our visits we will discuss medication management, but we will also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give "homework" and real world tips/tricks to work on between our visits.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd94fa28-d433-4197-86b2-b6ab1540f38c/1/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![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 Kimberly Grider, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bca7740-99ae-4b1c-a746-78e019e9d969/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Grider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Kimberly Grider is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Kimberly has experience providing mental health care for children, teenagers, adults, and older adults. It is her goal to create a safe space for clients to feel seen, understood, and empowered to be their best selves. Kimberly partners with clients to provide evidence-based guidance to help them meet their mental health goals and achieve overall well-being.
Kimberly Grider is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Kimberly has experience providing mental health care for children, teenagers, adults, and older adults. It is her goal to create a safe space for clients to feel seen, understood, and empowered to be their best selves. Kimberly partners with clients to provide evidence-based guidance to help them meet their mental health goals and achieve overall well-being.
See more therapy options for Indianapolis
Nearby Searches for Indianapolis
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
78% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Medication Management |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
23% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Indianapolis?
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.