Psychiatrists in Baton Rouge, LA

Photo of Dr. Funmi Kwentua - Lumel Mental Health Services, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lumel Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806  (Online Only)
Welcome to Lumel Mental Health. We see patients in Louisiana, Iowa and Arizona. I'm Funmi, a doctoral-prepared, licensed, and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I strongly advocate for the connection between mind and body, utilizing evidence-based methods to address my patients' needs and improve their overall well-being. At Lumel, we welcome clients of all ages who are ready to actively enhance their physical, mental, and spiritual health.
Welcome to Lumel Mental Health. We see patients in Louisiana, Iowa and Arizona. I'm Funmi, a doctoral-prepared, licensed, and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I strongly advocate for the connection between mind and body, utilizing evidence-based methods to address my patients' needs and improve their overall well-being. At Lumel, we welcome clients of all ages who are ready to actively enhance their physical, mental, and spiritual health.
(225) 307-4365 View (225) 307-4365
Photo of Amber Parden, MD, Psychiatrist
Amber Parden
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I am currently accepting adult female patients. I have been working with women, particularly in the midst of big life changes that may introduce challenging feelings and emotions that often do not make sense. I focus on helping navigate the understanding, learning and healing from these challenges in order to feel well and live a whole, fulfilled life. As a psychiatrist, I have an approach that is atypical, focusing more on skills and healing the self rather than heavy reliance on medications. I do believe that psychiatric medications can play a role in the healing journey in some cases, however, this is not often my focus.
I am currently accepting adult female patients. I have been working with women, particularly in the midst of big life changes that may introduce challenging feelings and emotions that often do not make sense. I focus on helping navigate the understanding, learning and healing from these challenges in order to feel well and live a whole, fulfilled life. As a psychiatrist, I have an approach that is atypical, focusing more on skills and healing the self rather than heavy reliance on medications. I do believe that psychiatric medications can play a role in the healing journey in some cases, however, this is not often my focus.
(225) 256-2201 View (225) 256-2201
Photo of Eric Palmer - Always Hope LLC, DNP, PHMNPBC, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816  (Online Only)
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
(225) 425-8039 View (225) 425-8039
Photo of Tunya Jack, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tunya Jack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Life has its ups and downs, and sometimes we may feel like things will not improve or consider choosing the option of giving up. Some life experiences may have you feeling unworthy, disconnected, or extremely drained. Those symptoms could inhibit the development of healthy relationships and prevent you from functioning at your highest potential. I am pleased to inform you that help is available and easily accessible through telehealth services. I am capable and willing to establish a trustworthy rapport with you that enhances your life.
Life has its ups and downs, and sometimes we may feel like things will not improve or consider choosing the option of giving up. Some life experiences may have you feeling unworthy, disconnected, or extremely drained. Those symptoms could inhibit the development of healthy relationships and prevent you from functioning at your highest potential. I am pleased to inform you that help is available and easily accessible through telehealth services. I am capable and willing to establish a trustworthy rapport with you that enhances your life.
(225) 460-4250 View (225) 460-4250
Photo of Dr. Monique Pierre Williams - Pierre Care Services, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pierre Care Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Monique Williams, a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing personalized mental health care. My approach is rooted in holistic and patient-centered principles, fostering a collaborative alliance that prioritizes trust and open communication. With expertise in areas such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and ADHD, I aim to empower individuals on their journey to optimal mental and emotional well-being.
I am Dr. Monique Williams, a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing personalized mental health care. My approach is rooted in holistic and patient-centered principles, fostering a collaborative alliance that prioritizes trust and open communication. With expertise in areas such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and ADHD, I aim to empower individuals on their journey to optimal mental and emotional well-being.
(225) 414-6885 View (225) 414-6885
Photo of Jerica Mitchell, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jerica Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70801  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, lack of focus, loss of motivation, problems with sleep, and/or up and down moods? Or maybe you don't know exactly what is wrong but you know that mentally you are not feeling your best.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, lack of focus, loss of motivation, problems with sleep, and/or up and down moods? Or maybe you don't know exactly what is wrong but you know that mentally you are not feeling your best.
(225) 535-8848 View (225) 535-8848
Photo of Cassandra Jingles - Integrity Mental Health Services, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrity Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70827  (Online Only)
Integrity Mental Health Services has a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. We specialize in psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and the psychiatric nurse practitioner. ****Controlled substance are monitored and prescribed upon the providers discretion.**** We are offering TELEHEALTH only.
Integrity Mental Health Services has a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. We specialize in psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and the psychiatric nurse practitioner. ****Controlled substance are monitored and prescribed upon the providers discretion.**** We are offering TELEHEALTH only.
(225) 240-4750 View (225) 240-4750
Photo of Eurica Rena Gaston, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eurica Rena Gaston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70827  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is rewarding to assist my clients with their healthcare needs. My clients and I, along with their families, work together as a team. We have developed a level of trust and respect for one another. An atmosphere of trust and respect allows the client to be open to discussion and have a feeling of empowerment in making healthcare decisions. My role as a psychiatric mental nurse practitioner is to offer my clients the knowledge needed to make the best decisions for their healthcare. When we work together, we learn from each other and have positive changes in our lives.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it is rewarding to assist my clients with their healthcare needs. My clients and I, along with their families, work together as a team. We have developed a level of trust and respect for one another. An atmosphere of trust and respect allows the client to be open to discussion and have a feeling of empowerment in making healthcare decisions. My role as a psychiatric mental nurse practitioner is to offer my clients the knowledge needed to make the best decisions for their healthcare. When we work together, we learn from each other and have positive changes in our lives.
(225) 777-6658 View (225) 777-6658
Photo of Dr. Lanhuong Nguyen, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Lanhuong Nguyen
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I am a board certified child, adolescent adult psychiatrist. With a sincere dedication to assisting individuals in overcoming mental health challenges, my ultimate aim is to promote optimal well-being. Striving to minimize medication usage whenever possible, I prioritize personalized care and only prescribe when truly necessary.
I am a board certified child, adolescent adult psychiatrist. With a sincere dedication to assisting individuals in overcoming mental health challenges, my ultimate aim is to promote optimal well-being. Striving to minimize medication usage whenever possible, I prioritize personalized care and only prescribe when truly necessary.
(225) 267-8441 View (225) 267-8441
Photo of Anissa Womack - Stress Management Specialist, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stress Management Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions and/or difficulty concentrating on tasks at school or work? Have you been skipping out on gatherings or avoiding loved ones due to lack of interest in doing things? Maybe you feel like you've let down your family or that you're becoming a burden to them. You're unable to quiet your mind and fall sleep. You toss and turn all night, then you get up in the morning feeling exhausted and frustrated all over again. This daily battle with depression and anxiety can leave you feeling isolated, guilty, and overwhelmed. If this sounds like you, know that you ARE NOT alone!
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions and/or difficulty concentrating on tasks at school or work? Have you been skipping out on gatherings or avoiding loved ones due to lack of interest in doing things? Maybe you feel like you've let down your family or that you're becoming a burden to them. You're unable to quiet your mind and fall sleep. You toss and turn all night, then you get up in the morning feeling exhausted and frustrated all over again. This daily battle with depression and anxiety can leave you feeling isolated, guilty, and overwhelmed. If this sounds like you, know that you ARE NOT alone!
(225) 396-4676 View (225) 396-4676
Photo of Lawrence Salone - PTI, MD, DO, MP, LCSW, LPC, Psychiatrist
PTI
Psychiatrist, MD, DO, MP, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
PTI is a regional mental healthcare system headquartered in Baton Rouge, LA. PTI was founded in 2012 with a vision to impact the lives of staff, patients, and the communities we live in. We employ psychiatrist, psychologist, and therapist to ensure our patients have the best opportunity to live life on their own terms. We do this through in office and virtual encounters with our clinical and medical team. Virtual Psych Network (VPN™) is a HIPPA secure platform that allows patients to see their doctor from the location of their convenience.
PTI is a regional mental healthcare system headquartered in Baton Rouge, LA. PTI was founded in 2012 with a vision to impact the lives of staff, patients, and the communities we live in. We employ psychiatrist, psychologist, and therapist to ensure our patients have the best opportunity to live life on their own terms. We do this through in office and virtual encounters with our clinical and medical team. Virtual Psych Network (VPN™) is a HIPPA secure platform that allows patients to see their doctor from the location of their convenience.
(225) 319-9654 View (225) 319-9654
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70817  (Online Only)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Ibh Baton Rouge - Integrated Behavioral Health-Baton Rouge, PMHNPBC, LPC-S, LCSW, LPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrated Behavioral Health-Baton Rouge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, LPC-S, LCSW, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
This location is currently accepting patients ages 5 and older for general psychiatry and therapy both in person and virtually. At IBH we are a multidisciplinary team focused on providing comprehensive care to patients ages 5 and older. Our Baton Rouge team includes Blaine Grice, PMHNP-BC (Nurse Practitioner-In Person and telehealth appointments available in Baton Rouge and New Orleans), Casey Sommers, LPC-S (Associate Clinical Director), Elizabeth Standifer LCSW, Daja Williams, M.S., LPC. Our other location is on Poydras Street in New Orleans. Please call today or contact us on our website, www.ibhpsych.com
This location is currently accepting patients ages 5 and older for general psychiatry and therapy both in person and virtually. At IBH we are a multidisciplinary team focused on providing comprehensive care to patients ages 5 and older. Our Baton Rouge team includes Blaine Grice, PMHNP-BC (Nurse Practitioner-In Person and telehealth appointments available in Baton Rouge and New Orleans), Casey Sommers, LPC-S (Associate Clinical Director), Elizabeth Standifer LCSW, Daja Williams, M.S., LPC. Our other location is on Poydras Street in New Orleans. Please call today or contact us on our website, www.ibhpsych.com
(225) 424-1822 View (225) 424-1822
Photo of Larry W Warner, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist
Larry W Warner
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Board certified psychiatrist here in the Baton Rouge area providing the highest level of mental health service. In addition to psychiatric care which includes medication management and education Dr. Warner also provides services for addition through the usage of Suboxone to those truly motivated for sobriety.
Board certified psychiatrist here in the Baton Rouge area providing the highest level of mental health service. In addition to psychiatric care which includes medication management and education Dr. Warner also provides services for addition through the usage of Suboxone to those truly motivated for sobriety.
(225) 240-7102 View (225) 240-7102
Photo of Ashley Clark - Serenity Mental Health Services, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serenity Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70827  (Online Only)
Serenity Mental Health Services provides telehealth/virtual mental health consultations to individuals across Louisiana. Specializing in medication management, our services cater to patients aged 8 and above facing emotional or behavioral challenges. We welcome individuals seeking evaluation and medical treatment for psychiatric disorders. It's important to note that we do not typically prescribe benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, Ativan, etc.).
Serenity Mental Health Services provides telehealth/virtual mental health consultations to individuals across Louisiana. Specializing in medication management, our services cater to patients aged 8 and above facing emotional or behavioral challenges. We welcome individuals seeking evaluation and medical treatment for psychiatric disorders. It's important to note that we do not typically prescribe benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, Ativan, etc.).
(225) 314-6906 View (225) 314-6906
Photo of Demeka Underwood - Mending Minds Behavioral Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mending Minds Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Demeka Underwood, PMHNP-BC brings a decade of psychiatric nursing experience to her role. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she collaborates closely with patients, offering medication management and psychotherapy for mental health concerns. Demeka earned her master's from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2020, her bachelor's from Franciscan of Our Lady in 2019, and her Associates from Our Lady of the Lake College in 2012. Before joining Southeast Community Health Systems, she worked in various nursing roles, including medical-surgical, mother/baby, and pediatric nursing.
Demeka Underwood, PMHNP-BC brings a decade of psychiatric nursing experience to her role. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she collaborates closely with patients, offering medication management and psychotherapy for mental health concerns. Demeka earned her master's from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2020, her bachelor's from Franciscan of Our Lady in 2019, and her Associates from Our Lady of the Lake College in 2012. Before joining Southeast Community Health Systems, she worked in various nursing roles, including medical-surgical, mother/baby, and pediatric nursing.
(225) 412-0200 x101 View (225) 412-0200 x101
Photo of Crystal Hebert, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Crystal Hebert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Crystal Hebert is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Baton Rouge Louisiana. She provides an integrative mental health perspective and has experience caring for a wide range of diagnoses across the lifespan. Crystal has over 13 years of combined nursing experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She enjoys working with neuro-divergent adolescents and young adults and serves as a guide in navigating obstacles.
Crystal Hebert is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Baton Rouge Louisiana. She provides an integrative mental health perspective and has experience caring for a wide range of diagnoses across the lifespan. Crystal has over 13 years of combined nursing experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She enjoys working with neuro-divergent adolescents and young adults and serves as a guide in navigating obstacles.
(225) 535-8883 View (225) 535-8883
Photo of LaTosha Williams - Clear Path To Wellness, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clear Path To Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Clear Path To Wellness, LLC offers telehealth services. I am a board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am trained in all ages and stages of life. While residing in a smaller town currently; I have experienced metropolitan life growing up. My specialties are trauma, ineffective coping, anxiety, complicated grief, and depression.
Clear Path To Wellness, LLC offers telehealth services. I am a board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am trained in all ages and stages of life. While residing in a smaller town currently; I have experienced metropolitan life growing up. My specialties are trauma, ineffective coping, anxiety, complicated grief, and depression.
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Photo of Margit Muenyi - Lumel Mental Health Services LLc, DNP , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lumel Mental Health Services LLc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806  (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management of psychiatric disorders. I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). I am currently accepting new patients in Louisiana , Iowa and Arizona. I believe in individualized treatment for all patients and will work with you and your other providers to ensure the proper plan is established. I specialize in providing personalized and holistic care to enhance your mental well-being. Through a combination of lifestyle adjustments, supportive therapy, and pharmacological interventions, I am dedicated to helping you achieve improved mental health.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management of psychiatric disorders. I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). I am currently accepting new patients in Louisiana , Iowa and Arizona. I believe in individualized treatment for all patients and will work with you and your other providers to ensure the proper plan is established. I specialize in providing personalized and holistic care to enhance your mental well-being. Through a combination of lifestyle adjustments, supportive therapy, and pharmacological interventions, I am dedicated to helping you achieve improved mental health.
(225) 314-1374 View (225) 314-1374
Photo of Judy Carol Edo - Jovin Healthcare and Behavioral Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jovin Healthcare and Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Hello! I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals struggling with mental and behavioral health challenges. At Jovin Healthcare and Behavioral services, I offer expertise in: bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, insomnia, mood disorder, etc.
Hello! I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals struggling with mental and behavioral health challenges. At Jovin Healthcare and Behavioral services, I offer expertise in: bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, insomnia, mood disorder, etc.
(225) 401-3329 View (225) 401-3329

See more therapy options for Baton Rouge

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Baton Rouge, LA

40+

Average cost per session

$237

Psychiatrists in Baton Rouge, LA who prioritize treating:

87% Depression
85% Anxiety
79% Medication Management
77% Bipolar Disorder
72% ADHD
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
73% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Baton Rouge, LA see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Baton Rouge?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.