Psychiatrists in Kokomo, IN
![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 Shani Berrios, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf43b649-25fd-4b8b-b44f-d539ded1734e/1/320x400.png)
Shani Berrios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kokomo, IN 46902
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.
Hi! As someone who has personal experience related to mental health difficulty and trauma, I am hoping to provide empathetic care to help individuals achieve and maintain a better quality of life. My goal is to treat individuals holistically, working collaboratively with clients to tailor personalized treatment plans.
![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 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
Kokomo, IN 46902
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 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 Zacia Green, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68f8db77-a4cf-47b4-99a8-f964031fbcfa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Zacia. I am here to help you with your mental health needs. I am here to listen to your concerns and come up with a treatment plan that best suits you. I am a goal-oriented provider. I like to help my patients set realistic and achievable goals and help them overcome obstacles. I strive to be a provider that is approachable, and someone my patients will find comfort in confiding in. I have flexible hours and evening/weekend appointments if needed. I look forward to meeting you and helping you though whatever it is that may be preventing you from obtaining that level of serenity that you desire.
Hello, I am Zacia. I am here to help you with your mental health needs. I am here to listen to your concerns and come up with a treatment plan that best suits you. I am a goal-oriented provider. I like to help my patients set realistic and achievable goals and help them overcome obstacles. I strive to be a provider that is approachable, and someone my patients will find comfort in confiding in. I have flexible hours and evening/weekend appointments if needed. I look forward to meeting you and helping you though whatever it is that may be preventing you from obtaining that level of serenity that you desire.
![Photo of Rwana Abulaban, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3ff50a5-2f95-4a48-bb9f-35c8358304bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Tonya Butler, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/494e6d2a-ccac-4fef-a181-d3e4aeb5e9f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tonya Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kokomo, IN 46901
Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you often feel stuck and wish your life was different, maybe happier or more fulfilling but you’re unsure where to start? Seeking mental health treatment from a qualified professional is a good first step. My practice aims to empower patients to harness their strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges and develop sustainable and meaningful life changes. I place a strong emphasis on collaboration. It's important to me to understand your symptoms in context, to learn about your story, who you are, and what has shaped you to become who you are today.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you often feel stuck and wish your life was different, maybe happier or more fulfilling but you’re unsure where to start? Seeking mental health treatment from a qualified professional is a good first step. My practice aims to empower patients to harness their strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges and develop sustainable and meaningful life changes. I place a strong emphasis on collaboration. It's important to me to understand your symptoms in context, to learn about your story, who you are, and what has shaped you to become who you are today.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed8b87e9-c3fb-4057-af8b-1111a1c54653/2/320x400.png)
Lacy Pippin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47907
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 Holly Bowling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca1bb8c4-5ba2-4626-b3f8-0fd5898e2b5f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! As a PMHNP I am looking to grow my new Telehealth practice with clients who are unable to be seen at an in-person clinic. Providing visits via Telehealth allows clients the flexibility of conducting their visits virtually anywhere without the hassle of waiting for months to be seen by an in-person provider, all while still obtaining the same benefits, and with the same goal in mind, of improving mental health disorders.
Accepting new clients! As a PMHNP I am looking to grow my new Telehealth practice with clients who are unable to be seen at an in-person clinic. Providing visits via Telehealth allows clients the flexibility of conducting their visits virtually anywhere without the hassle of waiting for months to be seen by an in-person provider, all while still obtaining the same benefits, and with the same goal in mind, of improving mental health disorders.
![Photo of Dr. David Oluyinka Isaac, ARNP, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a24aedea-b646-4656-b801-b4b31762be1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. David Oluyinka Isaac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46835 (Online Only)
Regardless of your sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, race, color, national origin, religion, Surround Me Mental Health (SMMH) understands that your mental health is important. An experienced, passionate psychiatric provider who will listen actively to your concerns and be supportive can assist you in achieving your goal of healing from your struggles, using a culturally sensitive and patient-centered approach. Our goal is to help you move forward to where you want to be in your life. Visit our website to request consultation for services via telehealth anywhere in WA and Indiana and in the Greenwood and Indianapolis area.
Regardless of your sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, race, color, national origin, religion, Surround Me Mental Health (SMMH) understands that your mental health is important. An experienced, passionate psychiatric provider who will listen actively to your concerns and be supportive can assist you in achieving your goal of healing from your struggles, using a culturally sensitive and patient-centered approach. Our goal is to help you move forward to where you want to be in your life. Visit our website to request consultation for services via telehealth anywhere in WA and Indiana and in the Greenwood and Indianapolis area.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a9a8a2b-4663-4309-aaa3-90eb4fa15619/2/320x400.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 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 Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5321af5-7743-47e8-b2e9-948d5dbdcc1d/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 Morgan McCormick, MD, PMH-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4820c1b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Neighborhood Psychiatry, I work to help individuals realize their best versions of themselves. I take pride in developing a collaborative relationship with patients, with a focus on creating a supportive and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns. Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment is not always an easy choice, I do my best to promote a warm and empathic relationship, the best environment to promote change and growth.
At Neighborhood Psychiatry, I work to help individuals realize their best versions of themselves. I take pride in developing a collaborative relationship with patients, with a focus on creating a supportive and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns. Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment is not always an easy choice, I do my best to promote a warm and empathic relationship, the best environment to promote change and growth.
![Photo of Marjorie Combellick, MSN, AGNPC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95b9ea1c-b2de-47b6-a0a0-03192a232b6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marjorie Combellick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNPC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032 (Online Only)
It can be difficult to find your way amidst uncertainty. It can be easy to become overwhelmed and feel powerless and even hopeless, to lose a sense of purpose and enjoyment. Sometimes you need someone to help you sort these things out and get to the root of a problem so that you can grow beyond it. If I can help you achieve that in any way, then I have succeeded. My primary client focus at this time is young adults in college or trade school, professional women, working moms, and peripartum women.
It can be difficult to find your way amidst uncertainty. It can be easy to become overwhelmed and feel powerless and even hopeless, to lose a sense of purpose and enjoyment. Sometimes you need someone to help you sort these things out and get to the root of a problem so that you can grow beyond it. If I can help you achieve that in any way, then I have succeeded. My primary client focus at this time is young adults in college or trade school, professional women, working moms, and peripartum women.
![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 46260
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 Curtis Stennett, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47eda5b7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Neighborhood Psychiatry I provide treatment for people who find they are not accomplishing their goals or functioning as well as they would like to in some aspect of their lives. Many times, this is due to things that seem out of their control. I enjoy working with patients to develop individualized plans that address their areas of concern; in the process, sometimes people discover they have more control than they thought.
At Neighborhood Psychiatry I provide treatment for people who find they are not accomplishing their goals or functioning as well as they would like to in some aspect of their lives. Many times, this is due to things that seem out of their control. I enjoy working with patients to develop individualized plans that address their areas of concern; in the process, sometimes people discover they have more control than they thought.
![Photo of Diane Campbell, P, M, H, N, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb029137-655e-4a40-b577-f417f450018f/3/320x400.jpeg)
The primary goal of Central Indiana Mental Health Partners is to provide high quality psychtropic medication management to those within the community. Are you currently in therapy, but feel as though you may benefit from medication as well? Do you feel like you could use specialty care to help make sense of your mental health? Let's connect and discuss what Central Indiana Mental Health Partners can offer. Services are currently conducted through a combination of in person and telehealth visits.
The primary goal of Central Indiana Mental Health Partners is to provide high quality psychtropic medication management to those within the community. Are you currently in therapy, but feel as though you may benefit from medication as well? Do you feel like you could use specialty care to help make sense of your mental health? Let's connect and discuss what Central Indiana Mental Health Partners can offer. Services are currently conducted through a combination of in person and telehealth visits.
![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.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Kokomo, IN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Kokomo, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | Aetna |
86% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Kokomo, IN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kokomo?
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.