Psychiatrists in Muncie, IN
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![Photo of Queela K Tadoum, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b11da0bf-8158-4de8-bc87-17ab479ad9fd/2/320x400.png)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my personal statement revolves around my passion for mental health and my commitment to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals struggling with mental illnesses. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve overall wellness. I have witnessed the impact that mental health issues can have on individuals and their families. I have seen the stigma surrounding mental illness and the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. This has inspired me to pursue a career in psychiatry.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my personal statement revolves around my passion for mental health and my commitment to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals struggling with mental illnesses. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve overall wellness. I have witnessed the impact that mental health issues can have on individuals and their families. I have seen the stigma surrounding mental illness and the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. This has inspired me to pursue a career in psychiatry.
![Photo of Dr. Femi Akinsanya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d8f712f-78fa-4158-a9f8-49021929bd3c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Femi Akinsanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
![Photo of Tanesha McWilliams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f43c2fc7-032c-49c6-b920-ffbbc4328f98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tanesha McWilliams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240 (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
![Photo of Tyler Clay Flaningham, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e8e89fc-28fc-41cc-8e16-2cf24f1fb45a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
I am an adult and adolescent psychiatrist at Indiana Health Group in Carmel. Typically I see patients from 12-75 y/o. I am also the team psychiatrist for the Indianapolis Colts. My certifications include NFL (National Football League) Certified Evaluator for Performance-Enhancing Substances as well as a Suboxone prescriber. I see patients for psychopharmacology medication evaluations and follow-up visits, as well as health management in relation to his/her mental health needs. In addition, I am a firm believer in the mental health benefits of exercise, work/personal life balance, positive relationships, and evidence-based medicine.
![Photo of James Brown, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01949287-efa6-4287-a339-9e3cfdc0d97f/1/320x400.png)
James Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with James and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "Psychiatry has been a natural fit for me throughout my professional career. I have been a registered nurse since 1995, became a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015; I returned to Rush University in 2019 for a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am happy to be a part of the mental health care field as it evolves and becomes more effective and available! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone to scan this QR code:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with James and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "Psychiatry has been a natural fit for me throughout my professional career. I have been a registered nurse since 1995, became a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015; I returned to Rush University in 2019 for a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am happy to be a part of the mental health care field as it evolves and becomes more effective and available! To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone to scan this QR code:
![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 René Phillippe, RN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b998b07a-d612-4fd9-a6a8-fb1111795be7/1/320x400.jpeg)
René Phillippe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
I am a nurse practitioner with expertise in adult primary care and mental health, holding a MSN in Primary Care and a Post-Master's PMHNP certificate from Indiana Wesleyan University. I bring a comprehensive approach to my care and am dedicated to delivering advanced treatments to Allen County and the surrounding community. I prioritize building trust and fostering collaborative relationships with my patients, providing them the support they need to improve their mental wellness.
I am a nurse practitioner with expertise in adult primary care and mental health, holding a MSN in Primary Care and a Post-Master's PMHNP certificate from Indiana Wesleyan University. I bring a comprehensive approach to my care and am dedicated to delivering advanced treatments to Allen County and the surrounding community. I prioritize building trust and fostering collaborative relationships with my patients, providing them the support they need to improve their mental wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34e4d734-738c-4640-afc5-28bfa11f2c2b/1/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PHMNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bed7c9e-7c59-4617-900b-52f117f37dc8/1/320x400.png)
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PHMNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Westfield, IN 46074
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 Samuel Isaac Parmenter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eac4d464-7c3d-483a-a97e-7c45620e19be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samuel Isaac Parmenter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47404
Whether you are dealing with general psychiatric concerns or seeking support for co-occurring conditions, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care. I offer expert medication management, ensuring that any prescribed treatments align with your unique needs and goals. My approach is rooted in a holistic model that respects the complexity of each individual. Rather than simply addressing symptoms, I focus on understanding the underlying causes and the broader context of your experience.
Whether you are dealing with general psychiatric concerns or seeking support for co-occurring conditions, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care. I offer expert medication management, ensuring that any prescribed treatments align with your unique needs and goals. My approach is rooted in a holistic model that respects the complexity of each individual. Rather than simply addressing symptoms, I focus on understanding the underlying causes and the broader context of your experience.
![Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dc8d9b0-6dcc-446d-b569-cbbf66a40829/2/320x400.png)
Lacy Pippin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47405
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.
I imagine my ideal client to be a person seeking treatment for struggles that they are not able to handle on their own, such as overwhelming anxiety or depression. They are invested in improving their life and functioning but may not know where to start or may have failed in the process of seeking treatment in the past. They need some guidance in getting back to a place where they are happy with their life and they need support and kindness along the way. They want to have a better understanding of themselves and their feelings with an emphasis placed on learning coping skills to help them through difficult times.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25811538-d59f-4be8-b6a7-c3af8e03333a/1/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20731493-0670-4257-bfcb-3287a02509fa/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 Magdalene Bambo, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac0c6077-5d23-4040-a0f1-2971d3d914fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magdalene Bambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program from Indiana University-Purdue University, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Cum Laude, from Indiana State University. Magdalene provides quality evidence-based approaches that is unique and personalized to the need of each client. She partners with her clients to provide safe, empathetic treatment in a non-judgmental manner.
Magdalene Bambo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program from Indiana University-Purdue University, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Cum Laude, from Indiana State University. Magdalene provides quality evidence-based approaches that is unique and personalized to the need of each client. She partners with her clients to provide safe, empathetic treatment in a non-judgmental manner.
![Photo of Brooke Peterson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/547f2145-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
Hello, I'm Brooke and I have worked with adults in the mental health field since 2007. My primary focus at this time is the assessment & treatment of adult Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD). ADD is certainly not limited to children. Many individuals continue to experience symptoms as adults, and adults who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood. Common ADD symptoms include difficulty focusing, prioritizing, retaining information, & staying on task; hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interferes with and impacts work, home life, & relationships, especially if left untreated.
![Photo of Laura Johnston - Helix Health Group, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2c8640d-9fb9-4f2e-992c-38b22d327855/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
![Photo of William Andrew Garriott - Monumental Health LLC, PMHNP-B, MSN, BSN, BSBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a5e172b-ae62-49f9-9257-f986a0a1d284/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monumental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MSN, BSN, BSBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Andy is experienced in providing medication management along with supportive therapy for various psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to, mood disorders, anxiety disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, neurocognitive disorders, sleep disorder, and addiction.
Andy is experienced in providing medication management along with supportive therapy for various psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to, mood disorders, anxiety disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, neurocognitive disorders, sleep disorder, and addiction.
![Photo of 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 Carl T Ratliff Jr, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5249528-4600-435a-b25b-d7cb26491da4/4/320x400.png)
As a double-board-certified psychiatrist with over fifteen years in the industry, I understand the difficulties families face in accessing quality mental health care. Although qualified to see people of all ages, I am passionate about caring for individuals under 18. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorders, as well as substance use disorders. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, decrease stress, improve individual functioning, and improve family dynamics.
As a double-board-certified psychiatrist with over fifteen years in the industry, I understand the difficulties families face in accessing quality mental health care. Although qualified to see people of all ages, I am passionate about caring for individuals under 18. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorders, as well as substance use disorders. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, decrease stress, improve individual functioning, and improve family dynamics.
![Photo of Dorothy Bodur, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10540553-9776-4d75-99ea-48ad65ab9f69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dorothy Bodur is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from University of Southern Indiana. Dorothy has experience treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, community, and home-based visits. She has extensive experience in pairing behavioral training with medication management. She specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults with neurodiverse conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.
Dorothy Bodur is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from University of Southern Indiana. Dorothy has experience treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, community, and home-based visits. She has extensive experience in pairing behavioral training with medication management. She specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults with neurodiverse conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.
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FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Muncie?
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.