Psychiatrists in Brownsburg, IN
![Photo of Jaima L Byrd - Mindset Behavioral Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3f1af8-cb47-4126-8c08-3ea3a5e9f27f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindset Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brownsburg, IN 46112 (Online Only)
I am deeply passionate about mental health and committed to creating a safe, supportive, and open environment for you. My approach is centered around your unique needs, and I utilize a team-based strategy to ensure that evidence-based practices guide us in achieving your mental health goals.
I am deeply passionate about mental health and committed to creating a safe, supportive, and open environment for you. My approach is centered around your unique needs, and I utilize a team-based strategy to ensure that evidence-based practices guide us in achieving your mental health goals.
![Photo of Brooke Peterson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/547f2145-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
![Photo of Kim M Hizer, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3d4a132-e56b-47de-99ad-606e79f97666/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kim M Hizer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brownsburg, IN 46112
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
![Photo of Megan Jacobs, CPNP, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46dee68b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe you and your child are the most important part of my treatment plan. As a pediatric nurse practitioner with prescriptive privileges, my extensive experience has enhanced my ability to engage in compassionate, relatable interactions with children. I will develop a highly individualized plan of care tailored to the unique needs of your child. I will discuss medication options, expectations, and alternative treatments. I encourage open conversation between myself, you, and your child to promote shared decision-making and offer empowerment and courage to your child. I aspire to help your child discover and build upon his/her strengths.
I believe you and your child are the most important part of my treatment plan. As a pediatric nurse practitioner with prescriptive privileges, my extensive experience has enhanced my ability to engage in compassionate, relatable interactions with children. I will develop a highly individualized plan of care tailored to the unique needs of your child. I will discuss medication options, expectations, and alternative treatments. I encourage open conversation between myself, you, and your child to promote shared decision-making and offer empowerment and courage to your child. I aspire to help your child discover and build upon his/her strengths.
![Photo of Gary Wharton, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2b1fb24-29f7-414c-8cfd-a4e4b5d6fc19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you ever feel as if life is like a giant puzzle? You get one piece positioned just to discover another is out of place. Mental health issues can make you feel like all the puzzle pieces are out of place. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I want to assist you in getting the pieces back in order. Helping my patients achieve their mental health goals is my priority, and it begins in a safe, judgment-free environment where active listening is utilized to gain perspective into your concerns. Medications are not always the answer, and it is my job to help you decide if medications are right for you.
Do you ever feel as if life is like a giant puzzle? You get one piece positioned just to discover another is out of place. Mental health issues can make you feel like all the puzzle pieces are out of place. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I want to assist you in getting the pieces back in order. Helping my patients achieve their mental health goals is my priority, and it begins in a safe, judgment-free environment where active listening is utilized to gain perspective into your concerns. Medications are not always the answer, and it is my job to help you decide if medications are right for you.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25811538-d59f-4be8-b6a7-c3af8e03333a/1/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cf9a6e1-ca2f-4576-924b-0dbbb5655b2c/1/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Brownsburg, IN 46112
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![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
Brownsburg, IN 46112
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 Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488d59da-ceda-4c7c-8749-1689b315cfb0/2/320x400.png)
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.
![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 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
Brownsburg, IN 46112
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.
15 Second Videos
Shannon Bucciarelli
Edena Walden
Andrea Papa-Molter
Michelle McCarthy
![Photo of Amy Levy, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c53d2105-289e-43cc-a0d6-b869f417bff0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling like life is overwhelming and you want to place more emphasis on improving your mental health? Amy would like to help you define and reach your goals, and to see if medication would be of assistance. If you are already taking psychiatric medications, Amy can work with you to determine if your medications are benefitting you and can adjust or explore other medication options. Amy has treated children to adults with mental health concerns ranging from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, amongst others.
Are you feeling like life is overwhelming and you want to place more emphasis on improving your mental health? Amy would like to help you define and reach your goals, and to see if medication would be of assistance. If you are already taking psychiatric medications, Amy can work with you to determine if your medications are benefitting you and can adjust or explore other medication options. Amy has treated children to adults with mental health concerns ranging from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, amongst others.
![Photo of Victoria Neuses, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fde8ff70-336c-4400-8c94-e7d075cd0561/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Neuses is a Nurse Practitioner in Indiana with five years of experience. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University, and a Master of Science in Nursing-PMHNP from Eastern Kentucky University. Victoria believes in working together with clients to find a medication/treatment approach that makes them feel the best they can. She treats a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD, and PTSD.
Victoria Neuses is a Nurse Practitioner in Indiana with five years of experience. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Purdue University, and a Master of Science in Nursing-PMHNP from Eastern Kentucky University. Victoria believes in working together with clients to find a medication/treatment approach that makes them feel the best they can. She treats a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD, and PTSD.
![Photo of Jimmy Chenowith, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dda54c7-d88a-4125-88b6-ad47c4d4dc86/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jimmy Chenowith is a Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. He received his Associate's degree in Nursing from Midlands Technical College in South Carolina in 2007. Jimmy went on to receive his Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Western Governors University in 2014, and later completed his Master's degree in nursing in 2021. Jimmy has been practicing as an RN for 17 years prior to becoming an NP. He feels this experience is invaluable and provides a foundation that is unique in its own way.
Jimmy Chenowith is a Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2022. He received his Associate's degree in Nursing from Midlands Technical College in South Carolina in 2007. Jimmy went on to receive his Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Western Governors University in 2014, and later completed his Master's degree in nursing in 2021. Jimmy has been practicing as an RN for 17 years prior to becoming an NP. He feels this experience is invaluable and provides a foundation that is unique in its own way.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Amy Levy, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afc702a5-1a6f-4969-86b5-6460e7846572/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling like life is overwhelming and you want to place more emphasis on improving your mental health? I would like to help you define and reach your goals, and to see if medication would be of assistance. If you are already taking psychiatric medications, I can work with you to determine if your medications are benefitting you, and can make adjustments or explore other medication options.
Are you feeling like life is overwhelming and you want to place more emphasis on improving your mental health? I would like to help you define and reach your goals, and to see if medication would be of assistance. If you are already taking psychiatric medications, I can work with you to determine if your medications are benefitting you, and can make adjustments or explore other medication options.
![Photo of Jimmy Chenowith, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85fef090-ab47-4bba-b2ba-f6b13616447c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you wonder if medication is the appropriate next step for you? I would like to help you figure that out. I often meet people who have either been on medication before and want to make adjustments or are currently taking something and wonder if it is right for them or are completely new to it. You do not have to figure it out on your own. I primarily see teenagers to adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
Do you wonder if medication is the appropriate next step for you? I would like to help you figure that out. I often meet people who have either been on medication before and want to make adjustments or are currently taking something and wonder if it is right for them or are completely new to it. You do not have to figure it out on your own. I primarily see teenagers to adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Shelby Wade, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1ce8267-391e-486a-8e08-bd25b67b8ad9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shelby Wade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Shelby. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have a profound commitment to holistic healing and unwavering compassion, I have dedicated my career to transforming the lives of those grappling with mental health challenges. I have a genuine dedication to your well-being,I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience.
Hi, I'm Shelby. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have a profound commitment to holistic healing and unwavering compassion, I have dedicated my career to transforming the lives of those grappling with mental health challenges. I have a genuine dedication to your well-being,I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience.
![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
Avon, IN 46123 (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 Greta Logan Krause - Dr. Greta L. Krause, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4eb452a-9cc6-4aba-9e12-dce180cabe7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
![Photo of Jennifer Sloan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a515f3e5-9d84-459a-9044-f1cdac61ab46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sloan sees men and women ages 18-65 for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. She employs evidence-based pharmacology, psychotherapy, walk and talk, and other modalities as needed for each unique situation. She has particular interest in treating depression and anxiety, and strives to help each person achieve better overall health, function, and well-being in their lives.
Dr. Sloan sees men and women ages 18-65 for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. She employs evidence-based pharmacology, psychotherapy, walk and talk, and other modalities as needed for each unique situation. She has particular interest in treating depression and anxiety, and strives to help each person achieve better overall health, function, and well-being in their lives.
See more therapy options for Brownsburg
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Brownsburg, IN
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Brownsburg, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
86% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
57% | Stress |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Brownsburg, IN see their clients
93% | In Person and Online | |
7% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
15% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Brownsburg?
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.