Psychiatrists in Logansport, IN
![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
Logansport, IN 46947
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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Kristy Page, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38556a61-9bb3-4644-b1d1-94dddd505df1/1/320x400.png)
Kristy Page
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Kristy Page is a board-certified FNP and PMHNP. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Purdue University and her Master of Science in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner Degree from Ball State University and her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Kristy is extremely passionate about the mental health and well-being of her patients. Kristy is licensed in both Indiana and Florida. Kristy is accepting new patients in both states and does in-person or virtual visits.
Kristy Page is a board-certified FNP and PMHNP. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Purdue University and her Master of Science in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner Degree from Ball State University and her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Kristy is extremely passionate about the mental health and well-being of her patients. Kristy is licensed in both Indiana and Florida. Kristy is accepting new patients in both states and does in-person or virtual visits.
![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 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 Jessica Roberts, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8955a00-7a41-4f8b-ae46-cc05ba544c62/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to helping individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. I offer comprehensive psychiatric care, including medication management, to support your unique needs. My approach is patient-centered and collaborative, focusing on finding the right treatment plan for you.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to helping individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. I offer comprehensive psychiatric care, including medication management, to support your unique needs. My approach is patient-centered and collaborative, focusing on finding the right treatment plan for you.
![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 Shelby Wade, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1ce8267-391e-486a-8e08-bd25b67b8ad9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shelby Wade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Avon, IN 46123 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Shelby. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have a profound commitment to holistic healing and unwavering compassion, I have dedicated my career to transforming the lives of those grappling with mental health challenges. I have a genuine dedication to your well-being,I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience.
Hi, I'm Shelby. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have a profound commitment to holistic healing and unwavering compassion, I have dedicated my career to transforming the lives of those grappling with mental health challenges. I have a genuine dedication to your well-being,I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience.
![Photo of Fay Roberts, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53b0f799-d796-4b53-832d-797a386f5527/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fay Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46814 (Online Only)
There is an adage that says, “There is no health without good mental health”. This saying resonates with me; therefore, I strive to understand your mental health challenges and to identify ways to achieve and maintain your mental health goals. I specialize in treating patients with a variety of mental health challenges, which include substance use disorder, mood disorder, anxiety, depression and ADHD.
There is an adage that says, “There is no health without good mental health”. This saying resonates with me; therefore, I strive to understand your mental health challenges and to identify ways to achieve and maintain your mental health goals. I specialize in treating patients with a variety of mental health challenges, which include substance use disorder, mood disorder, anxiety, depression and ADHD.
![Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25b3658b-01b6-4395-bc52-4141d1b1fbff/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 Ronda Owens-Dehmer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f25493a-f8ff-4d5c-8cde-99b4aac281b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ronda Owens-Dehmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.
I have worked with many people with a wide variety of issues. Working in community mental health and at an acute care hospital has given me a wide range of experience. I have throughly enjoyed working with neurodivergent people as well as developmental disorders. I also enjoy working with people who battle addiction. It is amazing to watch the transformations in lives.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c0ab30d-7175-41d6-82b5-dcc4f5c6288f/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hammond, IN 46323
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/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 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 McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ddbf986-7587-4be2-b779-d660c218e6b8/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Lafayette, IN 47907
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 Lauren Alcorn, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88dc2436-817f-4a33-b8e0-e9e9fd83e217/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Alcorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, certified nutritionist and wellness coach, and I believe that with the right support everyone is capable of feeling better. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, certified nutritionist and wellness coach, and I believe that with the right support everyone is capable of feeling better. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles.
![Photo of Ashley Hamilton, MS, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc420220-9391-4a9a-bf48-7d18ae896e2c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi, my name is Ashley! As a pediatric nurse of 20 years I saw the struggles that our youth (and their parents) were having with mental health. While seeking care for my own children and finding a limited amount of providers or long waitlists, I felt a calling to be part of the solution. My ideal client is someone who is open to help, even if they are nervous, scared or unsure. I hope you will find me to be a caring and empathetic provider who wants to walk alongside you in yours or your loved ones treatment.
Hi, my name is Ashley! As a pediatric nurse of 20 years I saw the struggles that our youth (and their parents) were having with mental health. While seeking care for my own children and finding a limited amount of providers or long waitlists, I felt a calling to be part of the solution. My ideal client is someone who is open to help, even if they are nervous, scared or unsure. I hope you will find me to be a caring and empathetic provider who wants to walk alongside you in yours or your loved ones treatment.
![Photo of Michele Babin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abd10a6e-4c8b-43d7-9c98-342e4b3e7296/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Babin practices at the LifeStance Fishers, IN, office and has been in medical practice since 1999. She has a wide range of experience involving private practice, academia, community mental health, and the Veterans Administration, including both outpatient and inpatient settings. She graduated from Purdue University School of Engineering before completing medical school at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, where she also completed her intern year. Dr. Babin then finished her residency in psychiatry at Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, and also served as Chief Resident there.
Dr. Babin practices at the LifeStance Fishers, IN, office and has been in medical practice since 1999. She has a wide range of experience involving private practice, academia, community mental health, and the Veterans Administration, including both outpatient and inpatient settings. She graduated from Purdue University School of Engineering before completing medical school at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, where she also completed her intern year. Dr. Babin then finished her residency in psychiatry at Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, and also served as Chief Resident there.
![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 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 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
Indianapolis, IN 46240
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.
See more therapy options for Logansport
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Logansport, IN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Logansport, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Anger Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Logansport, IN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Logansport?
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.