Psychiatrists in Holland, MI
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound commitment to improving the mental health and well-being of my patients. With a strong background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric care, I bring a holistic approach to diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health disorders across the lifespan. I offer evidence-based interventions, medication management, and psychotherapeutic support tailored to each individual's needs.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a profound commitment to improving the mental health and well-being of my patients. With a strong background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric care, I bring a holistic approach to diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health disorders across the lifespan. I offer evidence-based interventions, medication management, and psychotherapeutic support tailored to each individual's needs.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Online Psychiatrists
Sarah Grohowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Sarah is a highly qualified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and adult-geriatric nurse practitioner (AGNP) with extensive experience spanning over 15 years in various healthcare settings. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Grand Valley State University in 2009, followed by a master's degree (AGNP) in nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2015. Subsequently, she pursued a post-master's degree (PMHNP) from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2019, and furthered her education with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the same institution in 2023.
Sarah is a highly qualified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and adult-geriatric nurse practitioner (AGNP) with extensive experience spanning over 15 years in various healthcare settings. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Grand Valley State University in 2009, followed by a master's degree (AGNP) in nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2015. Subsequently, she pursued a post-master's degree (PMHNP) from the University of Michigan-Flint in 2019, and furthered her education with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the same institution in 2023.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (616) 201-0234 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (616) 201-0234 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
Dr. Ahmed, a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, brings many years of experience in treating a broad range of mental illnesses. He offers comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s needs, starting with an initial diagnostic interview followed by a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of both, TMS and Spravato depending on the patient's specific symptoms and requirements.
Dr. Ahmed, a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, brings many years of experience in treating a broad range of mental illnesses. He offers comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s needs, starting with an initial diagnostic interview followed by a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of both, TMS and Spravato depending on the patient's specific symptoms and requirements.
Billie’s clinical expertise includes conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, managing psychiatric emergencies, and administering psychotropic medications. She is also adept at care coordination and patient education, ensuring that every aspect of her patients’ mental health needs is addressed comprehensively. Billie is committed to exploring all treatment options to provide the best possible outcomes for her patients. She believes in a holistic approach to mental health care, treating psychiatric disorders with the goal of achieving total remission of symptoms whenever possible.
Billie’s clinical expertise includes conducting thorough psychiatric evaluations, managing psychiatric emergencies, and administering psychotropic medications. She is also adept at care coordination and patient education, ensuring that every aspect of her patients’ mental health needs is addressed comprehensively. Billie is committed to exploring all treatment options to provide the best possible outcomes for her patients. She believes in a holistic approach to mental health care, treating psychiatric disorders with the goal of achieving total remission of symptoms whenever possible.
Welcome to my outpatient psychiatry practice. I take a whole person clinical approach to assessment and treatment. When necessary, I may prescribe psychotropic medication to help alleviate overwhelming mental distress that impairs functioning in meaningful areas of one’s life. I also provide mindfulness-based psychotherapy and consider the role of diet, physical exercise, and other lifestyle activities in support of mental health. I offer hope for individuals seeking relief from depression, anxiety, bipolar illness, and other mental health conditions.
Welcome to my outpatient psychiatry practice. I take a whole person clinical approach to assessment and treatment. When necessary, I may prescribe psychotropic medication to help alleviate overwhelming mental distress that impairs functioning in meaningful areas of one’s life. I also provide mindfulness-based psychotherapy and consider the role of diet, physical exercise, and other lifestyle activities in support of mental health. I offer hope for individuals seeking relief from depression, anxiety, bipolar illness, and other mental health conditions.
Dr. Shelby Hope is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2024. She completed her Residency training at Trinity Health Livonia Hospital and her Medical school at University of Mississippi Medical Center. Dr. Hope is dedicated to approaching each patient as a unique individual and embracing empathy and compassion throughout their journey. By integrating evidencebased practices, including medication management and therapy, Dr. Hope tailors personalized care plans to suit their specific needs. Her ultimate aim is to collaborate with each patient to assist in their fulfillment and wellbeing. Outside of work, Dr.
Dr. Shelby Hope is a Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2024. She completed her Residency training at Trinity Health Livonia Hospital and her Medical school at University of Mississippi Medical Center. Dr. Hope is dedicated to approaching each patient as a unique individual and embracing empathy and compassion throughout their journey. By integrating evidencebased practices, including medication management and therapy, Dr. Hope tailors personalized care plans to suit their specific needs. Her ultimate aim is to collaborate with each patient to assist in their fulfillment and wellbeing. Outside of work, Dr.
Marianty Mavros
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49441 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders and ADHD in adult and pediatric patients. I provide medication management, therapy recommendations, and my goal is to help my patients live a more balanced, peaceful life.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders and ADHD in adult and pediatric patients. I provide medication management, therapy recommendations, and my goal is to help my patients live a more balanced, peaceful life.
Christina Snider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
I am Christina Snider and I am both a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing for over 24 years.
I am Christina Snider and I am both a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been practicing for over 24 years.
I am a proponent of reality based therapy and specialize in work with people impacted by narcissistic abuse, childhood trauma and a wide range of symptoms that include anxiety, depression, PTSD, cPTSD, trauma, Interpersonal relationships issues, and self esteem. Clients find my authentic and engaging approaches to therapy an invitation to unpack and explore themselves in a safe place.
I am a proponent of reality based therapy and specialize in work with people impacted by narcissistic abuse, childhood trauma and a wide range of symptoms that include anxiety, depression, PTSD, cPTSD, trauma, Interpersonal relationships issues, and self esteem. Clients find my authentic and engaging approaches to therapy an invitation to unpack and explore themselves in a safe place.
Carter Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CCISM, EMT-P
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I believe in caring for the whole person. I do this through an Internal Family Systems therapy lens, assessing, diagnosing, and caring for mental health concerns. Sometimes this means prescribing medication, and other times it means working together in psychotherapy to find the roots of pain.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I believe in caring for the whole person. I do this through an Internal Family Systems therapy lens, assessing, diagnosing, and caring for mental health concerns. Sometimes this means prescribing medication, and other times it means working together in psychotherapy to find the roots of pain.
Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling to find someone who is understanding and easy to talk too? My passion is helping individuals of all ages in the treatment of their mental health. Working towards recovery and stability in a variety of mental health and substance disorders including depression, addiction, mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, and others. My career in the healthcare field started in 1991 since then I have worked in different areas. In 2012 I found my passion and forever home is in psychiatry.
Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling to find someone who is understanding and easy to talk too? My passion is helping individuals of all ages in the treatment of their mental health. Working towards recovery and stability in a variety of mental health and substance disorders including depression, addiction, mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, and others. My career in the healthcare field started in 1991 since then I have worked in different areas. In 2012 I found my passion and forever home is in psychiatry.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (517) 507-3108 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (517) 507-3108 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
Neurobehavioral Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
The Center for Neurobehavioral Health and Wellness offers comprehensive integrative psychiatry services. We focus on integrative strategies to reach optimal mental health and overall wellness. While we do prescribe medication, greater emphasis is placed on other factors known to contribute to improved wellbeing; such as prescription grade vitamin and supplement replacement, expansive psychotherapy, energy work, 13-week comprehensive wellness program, personality work, etc. These programs strive to provide a more comprehensive model of treatment than is available through traditional psychiatry services.
The Center for Neurobehavioral Health and Wellness offers comprehensive integrative psychiatry services. We focus on integrative strategies to reach optimal mental health and overall wellness. While we do prescribe medication, greater emphasis is placed on other factors known to contribute to improved wellbeing; such as prescription grade vitamin and supplement replacement, expansive psychotherapy, energy work, 13-week comprehensive wellness program, personality work, etc. These programs strive to provide a more comprehensive model of treatment than is available through traditional psychiatry services.
Psychiatric patients have a wide range of symptoms, and come from every walk of life. Ultimately, psychiatry is about helping people who are having difficulty reaching their potential. While the focus is on symptoms and their treatment, the goal is to improve the ability to function. Thus, I am interested particularly in people who want to improve themselves.
Psychiatric patients have a wide range of symptoms, and come from every walk of life. Ultimately, psychiatry is about helping people who are having difficulty reaching their potential. While the focus is on symptoms and their treatment, the goal is to improve the ability to function. Thus, I am interested particularly in people who want to improve themselves.
Gladys Kuik is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2023. She obtained her Licensed Practical Nursing and Registered Nurse Diplomas from Hawkeye Community College, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Allen College, and her Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Indiana Wesleyan University. Gladys intends to see clients who have a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD. Outside of work, Gladys enjoys watching action movies, especially in the theatres or with friends.
Gladys Kuik is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2023. She obtained her Licensed Practical Nursing and Registered Nurse Diplomas from Hawkeye Community College, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Allen College, and her Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Indiana Wesleyan University. Gladys intends to see clients who have a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD. Outside of work, Gladys enjoys watching action movies, especially in the theatres or with friends.
Tender Embrace Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
Welcome to Tender Embrace Wellness: Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced. Your story matters, and we are here to listen. Our dedicated team of compassionate practitioners is ready to hear your experiences, concerns, and dreams. We understand that the first step towards healing begins with a caring and attentive ear. Remember, if you're not happy, we're not satisfied.
Welcome to Tender Embrace Wellness: Step into a space designed with you in mind – a supportive environment filled with love, compassion, and understanding. We recognize that each person is unique, and so is their path to healing. You'll find a place in our sanctuary where you are heard, valued, and embraced. Your story matters, and we are here to listen. Our dedicated team of compassionate practitioners is ready to hear your experiences, concerns, and dreams. We understand that the first step towards healing begins with a caring and attentive ear. Remember, if you're not happy, we're not satisfied.
Luann Watts is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating the mental health needs of clients of all ages, diagnoses and needs. Luann has 20 years of experience working in healthcare including private practice, hospital and a state of the art free-standing behavioral health hospital supporting a trauma informed care approach. Luann supports motivation interviewing style while providing mental health diagnosis, medication treatment and management while also educating the patient. Luann strives to put her patients needs first.
Luann Watts is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating the mental health needs of clients of all ages, diagnoses and needs. Luann has 20 years of experience working in healthcare including private practice, hospital and a state of the art free-standing behavioral health hospital supporting a trauma informed care approach. Luann supports motivation interviewing style while providing mental health diagnosis, medication treatment and management while also educating the patient. Luann strives to put her patients needs first.
See more therapy options for Holland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Holland, MI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Holland, MI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Medicare |
100% | Other |
How Psychiatrists in Holland, MI see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Holland?
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.