Psychiatrists in Saint Martin Parish, LA
Larnaisha Q Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Breaux Bridge, LA 70517
Larnaisha is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about mental health, and understanding. She is a skilled nursing professional with 9 years of experience working in various clinical settings include in-patient and outpatient psychiatric facilities. She is certified to provide quality, compassionate, and efficient comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP-BC is multifaceted including advocating for patients, providing evidence-based education and management, and providing patient-centered psychiatric care.
Larnaisha is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about mental health, and understanding. She is a skilled nursing professional with 9 years of experience working in various clinical settings include in-patient and outpatient psychiatric facilities. She is certified to provide quality, compassionate, and efficient comprehensive mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. Her role as a PMHNP-BC is multifaceted including advocating for patients, providing evidence-based education and management, and providing patient-centered psychiatric care.
Dominque Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Martinville, LA 70582
With over 15+ years of experience in healthcare, I am dual-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have the unique ability to listen empathetically, provide education you can understand, and the willingness to collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan. My work experience includes women's health and outpatient psychiatry.
With over 15+ years of experience in healthcare, I am dual-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have the unique ability to listen empathetically, provide education you can understand, and the willingness to collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan. My work experience includes women's health and outpatient psychiatry.
Royal Health & Wellness Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Breaux Bridge, LA 70517
My name is Helen Ajala. I am a doctoral-prepared Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a graduate of the Loyola University of New Orleans and Frontier Nursing University, Versailles Kentucky, I have over 35 years of experience in healthcare. I treat patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My philosophy is an all-inclusive patient-centered approach. Our team of dedicated professionals provides fully integrated primary care and behavioral health services for children and adults.
My name is Helen Ajala. I am a doctoral-prepared Board Certified Family Practice and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a graduate of the Loyola University of New Orleans and Frontier Nursing University, Versailles Kentucky, I have over 35 years of experience in healthcare. I treat patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My philosophy is an all-inclusive patient-centered approach. Our team of dedicated professionals provides fully integrated primary care and behavioral health services for children and adults.
Online Psychiatrists
Grace Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Zachary, LA 70791 (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Jada Davis. I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing personalized mental health care. I provide mental healthcare across the lifespan which includes children, teens, and adults. I have experience in treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ADHD and more. I am available to listen to your needs and discuss a treatment plan together.
Hello, My name is Jada Davis. I am a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing personalized mental health care. I provide mental healthcare across the lifespan which includes children, teens, and adults. I have experience in treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ADHD and more. I am available to listen to your needs and discuss a treatment plan together.
Stephanie C Badon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, LA 70592
Caring for patients over the lifespan for over 25 years has given me experience in providing mental health care that is individualized to each person's needs. Collaborating with therapists and other mental and medical health care providers is an important part of the patient's treatment plan as needed. Patients can be seen in offices located in Youngsville and Loreauville.
Caring for patients over the lifespan for over 25 years has given me experience in providing mental health care that is individualized to each person's needs. Collaborating with therapists and other mental and medical health care providers is an important part of the patient's treatment plan as needed. Patients can be seen in offices located in Youngsville and Loreauville.
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.
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.
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70507 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
Ashley Hutchins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70508
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping others achieve mental wellbeing. Born and raised in Lafayette, LA, I feel a deep connection to our community and find joy in providing psychiatric services to those in need. My practice is located at Bloom Mental Wellness in Lafayette, LA where I provide services for children, adolescents, and adults with mental health issues. I aim to provide compassionate care and value integrity, respect, and self-determination to help clients improve their health and reach their goals.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping others achieve mental wellbeing. Born and raised in Lafayette, LA, I feel a deep connection to our community and find joy in providing psychiatric services to those in need. My practice is located at Bloom Mental Wellness in Lafayette, LA where I provide services for children, adolescents, and adults with mental health issues. I aim to provide compassionate care and value integrity, respect, and self-determination to help clients improve their health and reach their goals.
My name is Eurica Gaston. I have practiced as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for 6 years. My mental healthcare focus ranges from acute onset of illness to chronic mental illness. My approach to mental healthcare is a partnership between the individual, their families, outside resources, and myself. Each client is encouraged and expected to participate in all healthcare decisions. I provide and promote an environment which is open, honest, and free of judgement.
My name is Eurica Gaston. I have practiced as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for 6 years. My mental healthcare focus ranges from acute onset of illness to chronic mental illness. My approach to mental healthcare is a partnership between the individual, their families, outside resources, and myself. Each client is encouraged and expected to participate in all healthcare decisions. I provide and promote an environment which is open, honest, and free of judgement.
Kellie Newman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
I am a New Orleans native providing mental health care to the greater New Orleans area for ages 18 and older. I am a masters prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and graduated from Nicholls State University. I have 12 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings and am passionate about increasing access to mental health care. I can effectively communicate with patients through empathy and care. This combined with evidence-based guidelines for treating mental health disorders, allows for a patient-centered approach to care.
I am a New Orleans native providing mental health care to the greater New Orleans area for ages 18 and older. I am a masters prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and graduated from Nicholls State University. I have 12 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings and am passionate about increasing access to mental health care. I can effectively communicate with patients through empathy and care. This combined with evidence-based guidelines for treating mental health disorders, allows for a patient-centered approach to care.
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.
Hello! My name is Carol Darr. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis and medication management. I treat patients with many types of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care using a biopsychosocial model which considers biological, social and psychological factors and their complex interactions in order to understand health, illness and the best way to deliver mental healthcare.
Hello! My name is Carol Darr. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis and medication management. I treat patients with many types of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care using a biopsychosocial model which considers biological, social and psychological factors and their complex interactions in order to understand health, illness and the best way to deliver mental healthcare.
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.
Jerica Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816 (Online Only)
My name is Jerica Mitchell. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health. I use a holistic and integrative approach to treatment, which may include: medication, supplements, therapy, and life style changes. I typically work with adults ages 18 to 55 who may deal with depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, and/or mood disorders. Patients can expect a direct non-judgmental space. I also like patient involvement in their treatment. My patients will never be forced into a treatment plan that they are not comfortable with.
My name is Jerica Mitchell. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health. I use a holistic and integrative approach to treatment, which may include: medication, supplements, therapy, and life style changes. I typically work with adults ages 18 to 55 who may deal with depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, and/or mood disorders. Patients can expect a direct non-judgmental space. I also like patient involvement in their treatment. My patients will never be forced into a treatment plan that they are not comfortable with.
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.
I am a board certified child, adolescent adult psychiatrist. I take a collaborative approach, working closely with my patients and their families throughout the treatment process. I understand that it is my patients' health and wellbeing that we are focusing on, and I believe that spending individual time with each child/adolescent patient, as well as with their parents, is an essential part of the therapeutic journey.
I am a board certified child, adolescent adult psychiatrist. I take a collaborative approach, working closely with my patients and their families throughout the treatment process. I understand that it is my patients' health and wellbeing that we are focusing on, and I believe that spending individual time with each child/adolescent patient, as well as with their parents, is an essential part of the therapeutic journey.
Morgan Plaisance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70508
I am a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 5+ years of experience of providing care to patients. I am dedicated to helping patients achieve their personal goals for treatment. My goal to is to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning and well-being by focusing on managing symptoms associated with mental health through medication management. Providing care in a timely manner is a priority and new patients can be seen in 1 to 2 weeks.
I am a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 5+ years of experience of providing care to patients. I am dedicated to helping patients achieve their personal goals for treatment. My goal to is to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning and well-being by focusing on managing symptoms associated with mental health through medication management. Providing care in a timely manner is a priority and new patients can be seen in 1 to 2 weeks.
I am a Louisiana native and received my MSN from the University of South Alabama. I am board certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the ANCC and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood, and psychotic disorders. My background includes emergency room/critical care nurse at Level I & II trauma centers, inpatient psychiatry nursing as well as a variety of other healthcare settings. I have a passion for helping those with their mental health. I utilize a holistic, evidence-based approach with my patients.
I am a Louisiana native and received my MSN from the University of South Alabama. I am board certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the ANCC and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood, and psychotic disorders. My background includes emergency room/critical care nurse at Level I & II trauma centers, inpatient psychiatry nursing as well as a variety of other healthcare settings. I have a passion for helping those with their mental health. I utilize a holistic, evidence-based approach with my patients.
Darria Bourgeois
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gonzales, LA 70737 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Darria, I am a compassionate, patient-focused, board-certified PMHNP with experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric treatment. I currently hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of South Alabama.
Hello, my name is Darria, I am a compassionate, patient-focused, board-certified PMHNP with experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric treatment. I currently hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of South Alabama.
See more therapy options for Saint Martin Parish
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Saint Martin Parish, LA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Saint Martin Parish, LA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Dual Diagnosis |
67% | Addiction |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicaid |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Saint Martin Parish, LA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Saint Martin Parish?
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.