Psychiatrists in Clermont, IN
![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
Clermont, IN 46234
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 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 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
Clermont, IN 46234
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)
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. 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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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 Adam Humphrey, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69b4ef7b-67b3-4ab3-aa9d-a273e47c229a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Humphrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space to address your personal mental health challenges. My number one goal is to collaborate with you on a path forward that we both agree is in your best interests. It is not easy to reach out for help from a stranger and I respect anyone who is able to clear that first obstacle and put themself out there. I want to get to know you and what is important to you. I am not here to judge you. I am here to offer my expertise to help you work towards what YOU value most.
I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space to address your personal mental health challenges. My number one goal is to collaborate with you on a path forward that we both agree is in your best interests. It is not easy to reach out for help from a stranger and I respect anyone who is able to clear that first obstacle and put themself out there. I want to get to know you and what is important to you. I am not here to judge you. I am here to offer my expertise to help you work towards what YOU value most.
![Photo of Glenda (Jan) Grovenberry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b940c75-034c-4518-9a76-c91476dd7552/1/320x400.jpeg)
Glenda (Jan) Grovenberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Jan Grovenberry is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing and a Master's Degree in Nursing from IUPUI, Indianapolis, IN. Jan helps her clients with her exceptional compassion/sensitivity and communication/relationship building and problem-solving skills. In her spare time, Jan enjoys time with her family. She loves fishing, boating, biking, gardening, bowling, going to concerts/ festivals and advocating for animal welfare.
Jan Grovenberry is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing and a Master's Degree in Nursing from IUPUI, Indianapolis, IN. Jan helps her clients with her exceptional compassion/sensitivity and communication/relationship building and problem-solving skills. In her spare time, Jan enjoys time with her family. She loves fishing, boating, biking, gardening, bowling, going to concerts/ festivals and advocating for animal welfare.
![Photo of Dr. Gayatri Singh, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d6c2812-e160-48ad-a207-06550751cdd2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gayatri Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
![Photo of Abimbola D Oluwasesin, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b9f3f76-41f8-4881-9adf-23cdf27785bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abimbola D Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan.
![Photo of Tanesha McWilliams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f43c2fc7-032c-49c6-b920-ffbbc4328f98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tanesha McWilliams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
![Photo of Augusta Ify Nobel - AIMbehavioralservices , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e164da7f-27ff-4808-aad8-93efadc145f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
AIMbehavioralservices
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46254
I specialize in medication management as well as psycho-education therapy. My ideal clients usually deal with depression, anxiety and ADHD. They will need medication management for their symptoms and other related factors.
I specialize in medication management as well as psycho-education therapy. My ideal clients usually deal with depression, anxiety and ADHD. They will need medication management for their symptoms and other related factors.
![Photo of Michelle Porter, DNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a73c3ba7-6931-4bbf-a7ab-2f93de4dfef1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle’s journey in mental health began in California, where she grew up before moving to Indiana in 2013 to attend Purdue University. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017, she continued her education and training in Nashville, Tennessee, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s nurse residency program. In 2023, Michelle achieved her Doctorate in Nursing Practice specializing in psychiatric mental health from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
Michelle’s journey in mental health began in California, where she grew up before moving to Indiana in 2013 to attend Purdue University. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017, she continued her education and training in Nashville, Tennessee, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s nurse residency program. In 2023, Michelle achieved her Doctorate in Nursing Practice specializing in psychiatric mental health from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
![Photo of Mario Padron - Focus ADHD Indianapolis, DO, JD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9371931-a2d1-4f01-bc09-051e346eb172/1/320x400.jpeg)
Focus ADHD Indianapolis
Psychiatrist, DO, JD, MPH
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Are you an adult struggling with ADHD? If so, you’re not alone. The providers at Focus ADHD specialize in the treatment of ADHD in adults, particularly working professionals. ADHD affects millions of adults in the US and worldwide. The good news is that Dr. Mario Padron helps individuals like yourself who struggle with ADHD. With a proper diagnosis and a customized treatment plan, you CAN live a less frustrating, more fulfilling life. Focus ADHD is committed to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental clinic where you feel comfortable to come and share your symptoms, struggles, and your concerns.
Are you an adult struggling with ADHD? If so, you’re not alone. The providers at Focus ADHD specialize in the treatment of ADHD in adults, particularly working professionals. ADHD affects millions of adults in the US and worldwide. The good news is that Dr. Mario Padron helps individuals like yourself who struggle with ADHD. With a proper diagnosis and a customized treatment plan, you CAN live a less frustrating, more fulfilling life. Focus ADHD is committed to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental clinic where you feel comfortable to come and share your symptoms, struggles, and your concerns.
![Photo of 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 Benjamin May, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e886cd4-61e8-40cd-b419-4f442c8199bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.
I understand that making decisions about psychiatric medications is difficult, especially when there are so many factors to consider. Medications can facilitate emotional healing, but their limitations must be recognized. When prescribing, it is my goal to understand your priorities and collaborate with you in an effort to find a medication that is beneficial with minimal or no side effects. Genetic testing is available for those who would like to know more about how they metabolize medications.
![Photo of 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.
Amy Abuasabeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Amy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She's worked as a psychiatric nurse for many years, in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and is passionate about helping patients achieve their goals of mental and emotional wellness. She keeps abreast of the latest scientific advances in psychiatry to help her patients feel empowered and fulfilled.
Amy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She's worked as a psychiatric nurse for many years, in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and is passionate about helping patients achieve their goals of mental and emotional wellness. She keeps abreast of the latest scientific advances in psychiatry to help her patients feel empowered and fulfilled.
![Photo of Tai Sowunmi, PMHNP, , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a879cec-99e1-450c-b347-652ce79035fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tai Sowunmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP,
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46241
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Tai Sowunmi, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with specialization in children and adult with chronic mental illness .Tai personalized, patient-centered approach to care, empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Tai offers a supportive environment for individuals grappling with various mental health challenges with unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, Tai tailors treatment plans to suit each patient's specific preference. .His compassionate approach fosters a sense of trust in patient.
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Tai Sowunmi, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with specialization in children and adult with chronic mental illness .Tai personalized, patient-centered approach to care, empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Tai offers a supportive environment for individuals grappling with various mental health challenges with unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, Tai tailors treatment plans to suit each patient's specific preference. .His compassionate approach fosters a sense of trust in patient.
See more therapy options for Clermont
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Clermont, IN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Clermont, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Addiction |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Clermont, IN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Clermont?
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.