Psychiatrists in Vanderburgh County, IN
![Photo of Matrika Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60bf17c8-d4db-4abd-b2dd-f443978bf03e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Matrika Brown, PMHNP Matrika Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from the University of Southern Indiana, a BSN from the University of Southern Indiana, a BS from Park University and an AAS from Community College of the Air Force. Matrika believes in a minimalist approach to medication prescribing and utilizing lifestyle medicine foundational principles and mind/body medicine techniques as adjuncts to medication management to improve overall outcomes.
Matrika Brown, PMHNP Matrika Brown is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from the University of Southern Indiana, a BSN from the University of Southern Indiana, a BS from Park University and an AAS from Community College of the Air Force. Matrika believes in a minimalist approach to medication prescribing and utilizing lifestyle medicine foundational principles and mind/body medicine techniques as adjuncts to medication management to improve overall outcomes.
![Photo of Stephanie Carson, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5da2df3c-679f-4d39-b5df-f5b71c2b7414/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie treats patients ages 6 years and older. Stephanie Carson is an advanced practice nurse practitioner since 2001. Certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, she also was awarded the Indiana Public Health Association's Innovative Program Award and is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Previous experience includes serving as manager of health and wellness centers practicing in primary care, urgent care and worksite wellness, and as inpatient family nurse practitioner for St. Vincent Hospital adult mental health unit.
Stephanie treats patients ages 6 years and older. Stephanie Carson is an advanced practice nurse practitioner since 2001. Certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, she also was awarded the Indiana Public Health Association's Innovative Program Award and is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Previous experience includes serving as manager of health and wellness centers practicing in primary care, urgent care and worksite wellness, and as inpatient family nurse practitioner for St. Vincent Hospital adult mental health unit.
![Photo of Rebecca Nance, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6659d24a-cb2d-4684-9883-e9a558d3e1ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Nance is an advanced practice nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience in nursing. She is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and a member of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She earned her undergraduate degree from Wabash Valley College, and her graduate degrees from Indiana Wesleyan University. She most recently earned her doctoral degree in nursing. Her previous experience includes inpatient hospitalist, palliative, hospice and primary care with a focus on mental health.
Rebecca Nance is an advanced practice nurse practitioner with more than 10 years of experience in nursing. She is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and a member of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She earned her undergraduate degree from Wabash Valley College, and her graduate degrees from Indiana Wesleyan University. She most recently earned her doctoral degree in nursing. Her previous experience includes inpatient hospitalist, palliative, hospice and primary care with a focus on mental health.
![Photo of Meagan Althoff, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08f92d82-a99f-4c55-a8b0-c9babadd3f5a/1/320x400.png)
Meagan Althoff treats patients aged 12 + years old. Meagan Althoff is a board certified family nurse practitioner. She earned her associates degree from Wabash Valley College and received her undergraduate and masters degree in nursing from the University of Southern Indiana. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, which is the second largest nursing organization in the world. She was also a qualifier for the Presidents Medal at the University of Southern Indiana.
Meagan Althoff treats patients aged 12 + years old. Meagan Althoff is a board certified family nurse practitioner. She earned her associates degree from Wabash Valley College and received her undergraduate and masters degree in nursing from the University of Southern Indiana. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, which is the second largest nursing organization in the world. She was also a qualifier for the Presidents Medal at the University of Southern Indiana.
![Photo of Juan Cabrera, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0046de16-9a95-4a6f-8ad3-5e97f84488a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a private practice psychiatrist with 30 years of experience. I treat the adult and geriatric patients. My focus is Treatment Resistant Depression.
I am a private practice psychiatrist with 30 years of experience. I treat the adult and geriatric patients. My focus is Treatment Resistant Depression.
![Photo of David Gray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/058930b0-e022-424f-bd51-29d05c80c85b/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Gray, MD, is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 1994. He obtained his medical degree at the University of Kentucky. He completed his residency in psychiatry and internal medicine at West Virginia University.
David Gray, MD, is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 1994. He obtained his medical degree at the University of Kentucky. He completed his residency in psychiatry and internal medicine at West Virginia University.
![Photo of Jenny Ahmed, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eeb2523-0eb1-4d16-bd1e-15f17c3e97d5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide medication management, therapy and referral for testing to patients across their age span. I have 15 years of experience. Telehealth available.
I provide medication management, therapy and referral for testing to patients across their age span. I have 15 years of experience. Telehealth available.
![Photo of Boris Vatel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02753c34-74d1-45aa-ba59-2f7046230878/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Vatel received his Doctor of Medicine Degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Medicine in 1995. He went on to complete his psychiatry residency at the Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency Training Program in Boston, MA in 1999. He subsequently completed a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, MA in 2000. He has been board certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 2000 and has fulfilled maintenance of certification requirements in 2010 and 2020.
Dr. Vatel received his Doctor of Medicine Degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Medicine in 1995. He went on to complete his psychiatry residency at the Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency Training Program in Boston, MA in 1999. He subsequently completed a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, MA in 2000. He has been board certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 2000 and has fulfilled maintenance of certification requirements in 2010 and 2020.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35f6f0be-c796-4754-b0d1-e977e556d2df/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47715
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 Melissa Maxwell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4156c126-2e98-4cd8-96c0-b8bf01023504/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Maxwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Evansville, IN 47715 (Online Only)
I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship begins with understanding my clients as they see themselves and the goals that they have for themselves. This understanding allows for an individual treatment plan to be created which may include medication management, motivational interviewing, and brief supportive therapy to address my client's needs. I believe that the best treatment outcomes are found in a multidisciplinary treatment approach, therefore I often encourage my clients to consider combined treatment with a therapist.
I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship begins with understanding my clients as they see themselves and the goals that they have for themselves. This understanding allows for an individual treatment plan to be created which may include medication management, motivational interviewing, and brief supportive therapy to address my client's needs. I believe that the best treatment outcomes are found in a multidisciplinary treatment approach, therefore I often encourage my clients to consider combined treatment with a therapist.
![Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b6131ef-c010-495e-b882-8a35c3948ecf/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.
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Michelle McCarthy
Allen Masry
Andrea Papa-Molter
Edena Walden
Shawn Faust
![Photo of Melissa Maxwell, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb003a20-d9cb-4f90-bba8-fe25dab3161b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing from Western Governor's University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship begins with understanding my clients as they see themselves and the goals that they have for themselves.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing from Western Governor's University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship begins with understanding my clients as they see themselves and the goals that they have for themselves.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d19323b8-7116-4638-b0ef-50c427c74664/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ade8f22-b616-4071-bfc8-fa4d07b9a1e9/1/320x400.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 Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76bfbc9d-56b9-468f-94e0-9ed0c95eacb0/1/320x400.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 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
Evansville, IN 47747 (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 Nikki Gaines, APRN, MBA, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41362ea9-9387-4990-aebb-b86b4a332116/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Gaines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MBA, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47702 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
![Photo of Jessica Walsh, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3168fb55-8989-4646-97af-af9d977b387f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47702
Personalized, Accessible, and Affordable. Evening and weekend availability. Easy online scheduling. My priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. Using a comprehensive and collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly individualized treatment plan and optimized medication strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to get to know you and understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Getting your mental health back on track shouldn't keep you waiting! Schedule online today.
Personalized, Accessible, and Affordable. Evening and weekend availability. Easy online scheduling. My priority is to ensure you feel heard and listened to. Using a comprehensive and collaborative approach you and I will partner to develop a highly individualized treatment plan and optimized medication strategy to achieve maximal symptom relief. I take the time needed to get to know you and understand your needs. Goals most often met include personal growth, symptom relief, and overall improvement in daily functioning. Getting your mental health back on track shouldn't keep you waiting! Schedule online today.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dce6b25-85ae-49c3-8a35-c969abab05e4/2/320x400.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.
See more therapy options for Vanderburgh County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Vanderburgh County, IN
10+
Average cost per session
$205
Psychiatrists in Vanderburgh County, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
84% | Medication Management |
79% | ADHD |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Optum |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Vanderburgh County, IN see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Vanderburgh 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.