Psychiatrists in Elkhart, IN
![Photo of David Sonego, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c5a736f-6bd3-4ddd-a6cc-e533dc528528/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnostic assessments and treatment recommendations in an outpatient, multidisciplinary private practice setting. I place emphasis on accurate assessment utilizing the biopsychosocial model, which involves a comprehensive understanding of the genetic/biological, psychological, and social/circumstantial elements inherent to each person's unique story. These insights provide for the appropriate use of pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and practical choices that lead to optimal patient outcomes.
I am a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnostic assessments and treatment recommendations in an outpatient, multidisciplinary private practice setting. I place emphasis on accurate assessment utilizing the biopsychosocial model, which involves a comprehensive understanding of the genetic/biological, psychological, and social/circumstantial elements inherent to each person's unique story. These insights provide for the appropriate use of pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and practical choices that lead to optimal patient outcomes.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Rebecca Frost, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/126fb610-5d48-4b5b-a4c3-6ad5fc8dc312/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an adult psychiatrist who provides care via telepsychiatry to patients who are located in New Hampshire, Vermont, Indiana, South Carolina, and Texas. I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
I am an adult psychiatrist who provides care via telepsychiatry to patients who are located in New Hampshire, Vermont, Indiana, South Carolina, and Texas. I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc675fe7-23f6-4b39-9f58-63845ad410e9/2/320x400.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 Alicia Ann Elliott, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/280b0d39-efb9-4368-9c5a-4c8dfb58d97a/2/320x400.png)
We all seek emotional wellness. We are at different places on that journey. We all want to be heard. I hear you. It's not easy to ask for help, but I am here to help you. I offer medication services to help as one option. Come see me.
We all seek emotional wellness. We are at different places on that journey. We all want to be heard. I hear you. It's not easy to ask for help, but I am here to help you. I offer medication services to help as one option. Come see me.
![Photo of Dr. Drew Schmale, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc536faa-29c3-4e31-96e6-dbf1c55d00b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
About me: I was drawn to psychiatry because I enjoy connecting with people and feel everyone has a unique story to tell. I treat everything on the psychiatric spectrum from mild to moderate severity, as well as those stubborn conditions where medications have not been effective. Psychiatry is one of the last frontiers of medicine and we are continuously seeing the field grow. I dedicated much of my training to researching and becoming skilled in novel methods of delivering psychiatric care, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation and ketamine treatments.
About me: I was drawn to psychiatry because I enjoy connecting with people and feel everyone has a unique story to tell. I treat everything on the psychiatric spectrum from mild to moderate severity, as well as those stubborn conditions where medications have not been effective. Psychiatry is one of the last frontiers of medicine and we are continuously seeing the field grow. I dedicated much of my training to researching and becoming skilled in novel methods of delivering psychiatric care, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation and ketamine treatments.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6d1dadf-0096-4092-a821-e4f6eefe8ba7/2/320x400.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 Heather M Hare, PMHNP, LMHC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/144c6c59-8a47-426d-bd6a-878ebc36adb2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather M Hare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Tipton, IN 46072
Are you an adult who is anxious, sad, irritable, or moody? Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you interested in medication to help better manage your symptoms? Please know you can feel better! I work with adults using medication to reduce symptoms, while employing a holistic approach, as recovery is more than just medicine! I also specialize in Perinatal Mood Disorders and am comfortable prescribing during this challenging time. You have safe options! My philosophy is that we are a team and will work together to help you feel better quickly! I am able to meet on a frequent basis if necessary, to help in a faster recovery.
Are you an adult who is anxious, sad, irritable, or moody? Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you interested in medication to help better manage your symptoms? Please know you can feel better! I work with adults using medication to reduce symptoms, while employing a holistic approach, as recovery is more than just medicine! I also specialize in Perinatal Mood Disorders and am comfortable prescribing during this challenging time. You have safe options! My philosophy is that we are a team and will work together to help you feel better quickly! I am able to meet on a frequent basis if necessary, to help in a faster recovery.
![Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f852fae-9c6b-4c0f-8b59-1a6913eb09af/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 Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8fed35b-f279-49a2-8b27-1c2e7c18f85d/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Amanda Roberts, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59a10f75-bfb5-40d7-affd-6dcb4f533567/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help the client get to their goals with their mental health. Any way i can help a client feel better with their mental health and overall health and well being is something I always strive for with my patients. If you’re having some anxiety or depression I want to be able to help decrease this. I also am certified in Botox and filler for cosmetic purposes if you are interested in aesthetics as well. I always feel awesome when I can make someone feel better about something they disliked before.
My goal is to help the client get to their goals with their mental health. Any way i can help a client feel better with their mental health and overall health and well being is something I always strive for with my patients. If you’re having some anxiety or depression I want to be able to help decrease this. I also am certified in Botox and filler for cosmetic purposes if you are interested in aesthetics as well. I always feel awesome when I can make someone feel better about something they disliked before.
![Photo of Nick Kelly, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c01b7ba-8928-4281-928f-3d578c92c82c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and thank you so much for visiting my page! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, addiction, and mood disorders. As a mental health provider I believe it's my duty to legitimize and de-stigmatize mental health. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD for most of their lives, but haven't been given the time, attention, or resources they need to thrive and live their best lives. During our visits we will discuss medication management, but we will also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give "homework" and real world tips/tricks to work on between our visits.
Hello and thank you so much for visiting my page! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, addiction, and mood disorders. As a mental health provider I believe it's my duty to legitimize and de-stigmatize mental health. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD for most of their lives, but haven't been given the time, attention, or resources they need to thrive and live their best lives. During our visits we will discuss medication management, but we will also discuss lifestyle and behavior modification. I often give "homework" and real world tips/tricks to work on between our visits.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1bd5ab1-700b-44e4-a696-80b281045b0f/1/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
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 Jessica Walsh, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3168fb55-8989-4646-97af-af9d977b387f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Personalized, Accessible, and Affordable. Evening and weekend availability. Easy online scheduling. My priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. Using a comprehensive and collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly individualized treatment plan and optimized medication strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to get to know you and understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Getting your mental health back on track shouldn't keep you waiting! Schedule online today.
Personalized, Accessible, and Affordable. Evening and weekend availability. Easy online scheduling. My priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. Using a comprehensive and collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly individualized treatment plan and optimized medication strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to get to know you and understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Getting your mental health back on track shouldn't keep you waiting! Schedule online today.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/515b35df-4998-4db7-92ab-d64d5cdf711d/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 Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c26b2f22-ab54-4c49-9a8d-6a8578eba145/2/320x400.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 Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfdbabb9-3e64-4884-8415-43d437938751/2/320x400.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 Lindsay Russell, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73573d63-2173-43de-b82a-920d88f6447f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Lindsay,. I take pride in being on YOUR team. I will work with you to create the best treatment plan to meet your needs. YOU are in charge of your treatment. I am only your "helper" to get you where you want to be. We will work together to ensure you are confident in our treatment decisions while achieving desired outcomes safely. My ideal patient is someone who is seeking personal growth and healing. Everyone deserves to wake up looking forward to starting their day by identifying the positives in their lives, changing controllable negatives, and coping with uncontrollable negatives that impede happiness!
Hello! My name is Lindsay,. I take pride in being on YOUR team. I will work with you to create the best treatment plan to meet your needs. YOU are in charge of your treatment. I am only your "helper" to get you where you want to be. We will work together to ensure you are confident in our treatment decisions while achieving desired outcomes safely. My ideal patient is someone who is seeking personal growth and healing. Everyone deserves to wake up looking forward to starting their day by identifying the positives in their lives, changing controllable negatives, and coping with uncontrollable negatives that impede happiness!
![Photo of Lindsey Morgan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c38fffbe-1f59-4b73-9956-f5b5dbca5088/4/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Lindsey, and I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I am so glad you are here and about to take the first step by asking for help. People often come into our lives for a reason, so I aim to make every interaction meaningful. Helping others reach their true potential through growth and recovery is something I'm passionate about. This starts with listening to understand who you are, what you've been through, and your goals for treatment. Together, we will develop a personalized plan to help guide you toward healing and overall wellness.
Hello! My name is Lindsey, and I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I am so glad you are here and about to take the first step by asking for help. People often come into our lives for a reason, so I aim to make every interaction meaningful. Helping others reach their true potential through growth and recovery is something I'm passionate about. This starts with listening to understand who you are, what you've been through, and your goals for treatment. Together, we will develop a personalized plan to help guide you toward healing and overall wellness.
![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
Lafayette, IN 47905
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 Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13a40273-8e70-41e6-8df9-6861e36c1c0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46805 (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
See more therapy options for Elkhart
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Elkhart, IN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Elkhart, IN who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Elkhart, IN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Elkhart?
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.