Psychiatrists in St Joseph County, IN
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e73add36-9b2a-4b48-a993-10472dbb84e8/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c26b2f22-ab54-4c49-9a8d-6a8578eba145/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of David Sonego, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c5a736f-6bd3-4ddd-a6cc-e533dc528528/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnostic assessments and treatment recommendations in an outpatient, multidisciplinary private practice setting. I place emphasis on accurate assessment utilizing the biopsychosocial model, which involves a comprehensive understanding of the genetic/biological, psychological, and social/circumstantial elements inherent to each person's unique story. These insights provide for the appropriate use of pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and practical choices that lead to optimal patient outcomes.
I am a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnostic assessments and treatment recommendations in an outpatient, multidisciplinary private practice setting. I place emphasis on accurate assessment utilizing the biopsychosocial model, which involves a comprehensive understanding of the genetic/biological, psychological, and social/circumstantial elements inherent to each person's unique story. These insights provide for the appropriate use of pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and practical choices that lead to optimal patient outcomes.
![Photo of Rinkoo Sidhu, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10ed190e-6711-4414-8e2c-8962c246d8ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rinkoo Sidhu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Rinkoo Sidhu and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed in the states of Indiana, Texas, and California.
Hello, my name is Rinkoo Sidhu and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed in the states of Indiana, Texas, and California.
![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 Dr. Gayatri Singh, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d6c2812-e160-48ad-a207-06550751cdd2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gayatri Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
![Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dc8d9b0-6dcc-446d-b569-cbbf66a40829/2/320x400.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 Christopher Krumrei, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ff97e85-88cd-43d9-a935-a6a014095fd4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Krumrei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617 (Online Only)
Hi. My name is Chris Krumrei. I am a nurse practitioner in Indianapolis Indiana. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I navigate the delicate intersection of mental health care and holistic patient well-being.
Hi. My name is Chris Krumrei. I am a nurse practitioner in Indianapolis Indiana. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I navigate the delicate intersection of mental health care and holistic patient well-being.
![Photo of Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13a40273-8e70-41e6-8df9-6861e36c1c0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Bend, IN 46617 (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
![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
South Bend, IN 46617 (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 Jennifer Evans - Lake Effect Healing , MS, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02f888ee-71f3-4b52-ab5b-cf818790a75d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lake Effect Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mishawaka, IN 46545
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am licensed to see patients in Indiana, Iowa, Vermont, and Virginia. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and mood disorders. I use a combination of medication management and talk therapy to create a solid plan for my patients, and make sure that they know what their treatment plan is. Patients should expect to walk out of the first session with an actionable treatment plan and feel heard and respected.
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am licensed to see patients in Indiana, Iowa, Vermont, and Virginia. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and mood disorders. I use a combination of medication management and talk therapy to create a solid plan for my patients, and make sure that they know what their treatment plan is. Patients should expect to walk out of the first session with an actionable treatment plan and feel heard and respected.
![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
South Bend, IN 46617 (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 Abimbola Oluwasesin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96a44748-7f36-446f-8acd-aab9656ecd16/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am based in Indiana, I offer office visits as well as virtual appointments. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am based in Indiana, I offer office visits as well as virtual appointments. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan.
![Photo of Rebecca Frost, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/126fb610-5d48-4b5b-a4c3-6ad5fc8dc312/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an adult psychiatrist who provides care via telepsychiatry to patients who are located in New Hampshire, Vermont, Indiana, South Carolina, and Texas. I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
I am an adult psychiatrist who provides care via telepsychiatry to patients who are located in New Hampshire, Vermont, Indiana, South Carolina, and Texas. I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
Dr. Marvelyn E Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mishawaka, IN 46544
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfdbabb9-3e64-4884-8415-43d437938751/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of 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 Heather M Hare, PMHNP, LMHC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/144c6c59-8a47-426d-bd6a-878ebc36adb2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather M Hare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Tipton, IN 46072
Are you an adult who is anxious, sad, irritable, or moody? Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you interested in medication to help better manage your symptoms? Please know you can feel better! I work with adults using medication to reduce symptoms, while employing a holistic approach, as recovery is more than just medicine! I also specialize in Perinatal Mood Disorders and am comfortable prescribing during this challenging time. You have safe options! My philosophy is that we are a team and will work together to help you feel better quickly! I am able to meet on a frequent basis if necessary, to help in a faster recovery.
Are you an adult who is anxious, sad, irritable, or moody? Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you interested in medication to help better manage your symptoms? Please know you can feel better! I work with adults using medication to reduce symptoms, while employing a holistic approach, as recovery is more than just medicine! I also specialize in Perinatal Mood Disorders and am comfortable prescribing during this challenging time. You have safe options! My philosophy is that we are a team and will work together to help you feel better quickly! I am able to meet on a frequent basis if necessary, to help in a faster recovery.
![Photo of Scott Siegall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420c5f77-04ac-4403-bc09-7f2332f5b172/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Scott Siegall is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, geriatric and personality disorders. Dr. Siegall provides assessment and diagnosis, as well as medication management focusing on the individual needs of each client using the most recent evidenced-based treatment options.
Dr. Scott Siegall is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, geriatric and personality disorders. Dr. Siegall provides assessment and diagnosis, as well as medication management focusing on the individual needs of each client using the most recent evidenced-based treatment options.
![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.
See more therapy options for St Joseph County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in St Joseph County, IN
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in St Joseph County, IN who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
60% | Addiction |
60% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in St Joseph County, IN see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in St Joseph County?
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.