Psychiatrists in Wayne County, IN

Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lacy Pippin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, IN 47374
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.
(463) 217-5726 View (463) 217-5726
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Richmond, IN 47374
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.
(463) 210-1444 View (463) 210-1444
Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Richmond, IN 47374
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.
(463) 259-7981 View (463) 259-7981
Photo of Akinsanya Obafemi Adebayo - Dynamic Mental Healthcare Solutions, PHARM-D, PMHNP,  , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dynamic Mental Healthcare Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHARM-D, PMHNP,
Verified Verified
Richmond, IN 47375  (Online Only)
Patient-Centered Approached At Dynamic Healthcare Services, we prioritize the needs and preferences of our patients. We believe in building strong therapeutic relationships based on trust and collaboration. Our team takes the time to listen to each patient's concerns, understand their unique experiences, and work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Patient-Centered Approached At Dynamic Healthcare Services, we prioritize the needs and preferences of our patients. We believe in building strong therapeutic relationships based on trust and collaboration. Our team takes the time to listen to each patient's concerns, understand their unique experiences, and work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.
(463) 218-9690 View (463) 218-9690
Photo of Tai Sowunmi, PMHNP,  , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tai Sowunmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP,
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, IN 47374
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Tai Sowunmi, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with specialization in children and adult with chronic mental illness .Tai personalized, patient-centered approach to care, empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Tai offers a supportive environment for individuals grappling with various mental health challenges with unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, Tai tailors treatment plans to suit each patient's specific preference. .His compassionate approach fosters a sense of trust in patient.
Looking for high-quality, compassionate mental health care? Meet Tai Sowunmi, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with specialization in children and adult with chronic mental illness .Tai personalized, patient-centered approach to care, empowers patients of all ages to achieve optimal mental health. Tai offers a supportive environment for individuals grappling with various mental health challenges with unique blend of medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, Tai tailors treatment plans to suit each patient's specific preference. .His compassionate approach fosters a sense of trust in patient.
(463) 218-9258 View (463) 218-9258

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Tyler Smith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tyler Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46203
Tyler Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2021. He earned degrees in both BSN and MSN at Indiana University. Tyler practices very thorough and detailed assessments and treats each person as an individual to give the best patient centered care he can provide. Tyler has knowledge of therapeutic methods, locations, and opportunities to meet individual and specific needs. He has experience in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric treatment as a provider.
Tyler Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2021. He earned degrees in both BSN and MSN at Indiana University. Tyler practices very thorough and detailed assessments and treats each person as an individual to give the best patient centered care he can provide. Tyler has knowledge of therapeutic methods, locations, and opportunities to meet individual and specific needs. He has experience in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric treatment as a provider.
(317) 494-7854 View (317) 494-7854
Photo of Sarah Franklin, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Franklin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47408
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) I perform diagnostic assessment, medication management, and treatment of those with mental health disorders. I focus on individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and BPD, but have openings for any diagnosis. As someone with personal experience of having an eating disorder and BPD I know how hard it is to find providers understanding of the unique challenges faced by the population. I strive to make sure my patients are heard, and work with them to help get them the proper medication and treatment.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner- Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) I perform diagnostic assessment, medication management, and treatment of those with mental health disorders. I focus on individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and BPD, but have openings for any diagnosis. As someone with personal experience of having an eating disorder and BPD I know how hard it is to find providers understanding of the unique challenges faced by the population. I strive to make sure my patients are heard, and work with them to help get them the proper medication and treatment.
(812) 943-2730 View (812) 943-2730
Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lacy Pippin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
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.
(463) 252-3332 View (463) 252-3332
Photo of Dr. Femi Akinsanya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(463) 232-7332 View (463) 232-7332
Photo of Lauren Alcorn, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(317) 483-8351 View (317) 483-8351
Photo of Dr. Tonya Butler, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tonya Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you often feel stuck and wish your life was different, maybe happier or more fulfilling but you’re unsure where to start? Seeking mental health treatment from a qualified professional is a good first step. My practice aims to empower patients to harness their strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges and develop sustainable and meaningful life changes. I place a strong emphasis on collaboration. It's important to me to understand your symptoms in context, to learn about your story, who you are, and what has shaped you to become who you are today.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you often feel stuck and wish your life was different, maybe happier or more fulfilling but you’re unsure where to start? Seeking mental health treatment from a qualified professional is a good first step. My practice aims to empower patients to harness their strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges and develop sustainable and meaningful life changes. I place a strong emphasis on collaboration. It's important to me to understand your symptoms in context, to learn about your story, who you are, and what has shaped you to become who you are today.
(317) 671-7471 View (317) 671-7471
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
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.
(260) 829-3172 View (260) 829-3172
Photo of Heather M Hare, PMHNP, LMHC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(317) 342-0694 View (317) 342-0694
Photo of Rwana Abulaban, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rwana Abulaban
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
(463) 583-1497 View (463) 583-1497
Photo of Kimberly Sue Huff - Mind Mechanics -Kimberly S. Huff , MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Mechanics -Kimberly S. Huff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
Want a mental health assessment/testing/medication all in one provider? I test for and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and all other mental health needs. Mind Mechanics are highly specialized psychiatric providers. We spend quality time with clients, asking questions other providers do not. I want to know about diet, sleep, work/life balance, spirituality, fears and ways you cope with daily stressors. I will provide a detailed assessment, accurate diagnosis & evidenced-based treatment plan & medication. Let me help you find the BEST version of you!
Want a mental health assessment/testing/medication all in one provider? I test for and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and all other mental health needs. Mind Mechanics are highly specialized psychiatric providers. We spend quality time with clients, asking questions other providers do not. I want to know about diet, sleep, work/life balance, spirituality, fears and ways you cope with daily stressors. I will provide a detailed assessment, accurate diagnosis & evidenced-based treatment plan & medication. Let me help you find the BEST version of you!
(317) 981-2356 View (317) 981-2356
Photo of Kim M Hizer, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kim M Hizer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brownsburg, IN 46112
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
(317) 207-0277 View (317) 207-0277
Photo of Lacy Pippin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(812) 497-8383 View (812) 497-8383
Brittany Bullard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Hi Everyone! My name is Brittany and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for the past eight years. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I provide care for ages 6 and up. I look forward to working with you.
Hi Everyone! My name is Brittany and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing as a nurse practitioner for the past eight years. My goal with every client is to treat from a holistic perspective and work together for you to be the best version of yourself. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I provide care for ages 6 and up. I look forward to working with you.
(317) 804-3696 x1019 View (317) 804-3696 x1019
Photo of Jenna Shock, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenna Shock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46802  (Online Only)
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a psych provider that actually listens? Someone that spends more than 10 minutes working to be sure diagnoses are correct and medications are optimal? After trying to navigate that world myself with family members, I made it my goal to do things differently. With me, you're more than just a number. I am able to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. My "office" is a safe space - anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, whatever the issue you face this is a place of non-judgment and I'm here to help you navigate.
View
Photo of Dustin Nowaskie, MD, Psychiatrist
Dustin Nowaskie
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
Hi all! I’m Dr. Dustin, a queer, nonbinary psychiatrist who is making waves in the world of LGBTQ+ healthcare. I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ people and communities. As the Founder, President, and Chief Medical Officer of OutCare Health, I help provide access to vital LGBTQ+ information, resources, programming, mentorship, training, research, and affirming care for millions across the country. I am committed to harnessing my lived experiences to promote and provide LGBTQ+ affirming care. With unwavering dedication and vision, I hope to transform the landscape of LGBTQ+ mental health care.
Hi all! I’m Dr. Dustin, a queer, nonbinary psychiatrist who is making waves in the world of LGBTQ+ healthcare. I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ people and communities. As the Founder, President, and Chief Medical Officer of OutCare Health, I help provide access to vital LGBTQ+ information, resources, programming, mentorship, training, research, and affirming care for millions across the country. I am committed to harnessing my lived experiences to promote and provide LGBTQ+ affirming care. With unwavering dedication and vision, I hope to transform the landscape of LGBTQ+ mental health care.
(562) 534-9437 View (562) 534-9437

See more therapy options for Wayne County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wayne County, IN

< 10

Psychiatrists in Wayne County, IN who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
80% Borderline Personality (BPD)

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Wayne County, IN see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Male
34% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wayne 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.