Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY
![Photo of Robert H Stewart - Robert H Stewart (MD), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/795c0bd6-d182-40e3-9fe1-1ac5c2451be2/4/320x400.jpeg)
Our calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of depression, the tension of anxiety, the stress of attention deficit/hyperactivity, the strain of bipolar depression, and the pain of trauma. Our practice motto is: “To heal sometimes, to relieve often, to console always.”
Our calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of depression, the tension of anxiety, the stress of attention deficit/hyperactivity, the strain of bipolar depression, and the pain of trauma. Our practice motto is: “To heal sometimes, to relieve often, to console always.”
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fda1fd62-000c-4a9d-8a77-2f55705fbecb/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Kentucky state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Kentucky state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
![Photo of Morgan Smither, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0df07c36-942f-4c8b-b06f-cfc3a0a0419d/1/320x400.png)
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
![Photo of Precious Sarver, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8b612d6-83ed-4804-8f22-5d3f51c45f0a/1/320x400.png)
Mental health plays a significant role in our overall health and wellbeing. It is okay if you need to reach out for help. Please do. I prioritize patient focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs. I strive to build lasting relationships with patients that are built on respect and trust. My view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where we take things at your pace. I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, safe, and heard. My values stand firm on commitment, integrity, respect, and advocacy. My goal is to empower and assist with optimizing your mental health because mental health does matter.
Mental health plays a significant role in our overall health and wellbeing. It is okay if you need to reach out for help. Please do. I prioritize patient focused care that is individually tailored to meet your needs. I strive to build lasting relationships with patients that are built on respect and trust. My view of mental health care is as a mutual partnership where we take things at your pace. I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, safe, and heard. My values stand firm on commitment, integrity, respect, and advocacy. My goal is to empower and assist with optimizing your mental health because mental health does matter.
![Photo of Dr. Gayatri Singh, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d6c2812-e160-48ad-a207-06550751cdd2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gayatri Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP,DBH, APRN, LCSW, LCAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40241
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
I offer a range of evidence-based, patient-centered outpatient clinical services to meet the behavioral health care needs of patients and their families via in-person and telehealth. I provide a variety of assessment and treatment services, including psychiatric consultation, medication therapies, individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. The conditions I primarily treat are Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Cody B. Pittman - Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eb9b3c2-4bac-4c60-a5c9-e0dabbca8b87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
![Photo of Julie Robinson, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf7f77a5-e95f-4ef7-a17c-ded7e359bc40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40258
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
Our mission is to be a blessing to all we encounter. Whether through the services we provide, a kind word, or a soothing smile, we seek to understand all those who enter through our doors.
![Photo of Lacy Pippin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf14a64a-b71c-434a-9066-7ccb4a8ec603/1/320x400.png)
I'm Lacy Pippin, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner serving patients in Illinois and Kentucky. With over 6 years of experience in psychiatric-mental health and substance use settings, I specialize in treating various mental health disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Trauma, and Grief. My approach focuses on patient-centered care, empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment journey. Together, we navigate the process of mental health, fostering understanding and healing.
I'm Lacy Pippin, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner serving patients in Illinois and Kentucky. With over 6 years of experience in psychiatric-mental health and substance use settings, I specialize in treating various mental health disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Trauma, and Grief. My approach focuses on patient-centered care, empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment journey. Together, we navigate the process of mental health, fostering understanding and healing.
![Photo of Summyji Groom, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b096a6bf-2dec-49c6-b03b-f32f1179b803/1/320x400.jpeg)
Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202 (Online Only)
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinic, PLLC is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive mental health care in a safe, secure virtual space. We cater to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or those wishing to enhance their mental well-being. Our strength lies in our holistic approach, integrating various therapeutic methods tailored to each client's unique needs. Our skilled professionals foster a supportive environment, aimed at empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with increased resilience. Your mental health is our priority.
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinic, PLLC is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive mental health care in a safe, secure virtual space. We cater to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or those wishing to enhance their mental well-being. Our strength lies in our holistic approach, integrating various therapeutic methods tailored to each client's unique needs. Our skilled professionals foster a supportive environment, aimed at empowering clients to navigate life's challenges with increased resilience. Your mental health is our priority.
![Photo of Erica Cecil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b278c2f-1def-43d9-a7e8-aa0e50783644/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
![Photo of Dr. Sarah Parsons, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37612bce-99a1-4155-9b6d-4d3c2c7c2203/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello - I am Sarah Parsons DO – a Kentucky based, Christian, triple boarded psychiatrist dedicated to helping others. I offer in-person and tele-psychiatry appointments for patients in KY, IN, and AL. I was born and raised in Lexington, Ky and attended Centre College and Pikeville University School of Osteopathic Medicine. I completed residency in Psychiatry & Neurology at ETSU, in Johnson City, TN. I then completed fellowship in Consult Liaison Psychiatry at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, OH, specializing in women’s mental health, transplant psychiatry, HIV psychiatry, psychodermatology, psychooncology, and ICU psychiatry.
Hello - I am Sarah Parsons DO – a Kentucky based, Christian, triple boarded psychiatrist dedicated to helping others. I offer in-person and tele-psychiatry appointments for patients in KY, IN, and AL. I was born and raised in Lexington, Ky and attended Centre College and Pikeville University School of Osteopathic Medicine. I completed residency in Psychiatry & Neurology at ETSU, in Johnson City, TN. I then completed fellowship in Consult Liaison Psychiatry at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, OH, specializing in women’s mental health, transplant psychiatry, HIV psychiatry, psychodermatology, psychooncology, and ICU psychiatry.
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![Photo of Dane Mendelsohn, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ba5f60-f8fe-4f1e-af0b-bdfe45d8af62/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Crisis Stabilization, Addiction Medicine, Women’s Health, and General Psychiatry. With six years of experience in psychiatry, I am equipped to treat patients of all ages. I offer various psychotherapy services such as lifestyle modification, manifestation, and mindfulness, and view medications as a tool not as a solution. Currently, I serve as a Medical Officer in the United States Air Force and have extensive knowledge in writing Veteran Affairs disability claim evaluations. I received my BSN from UofL and my MSN from WKU.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Crisis Stabilization, Addiction Medicine, Women’s Health, and General Psychiatry. With six years of experience in psychiatry, I am equipped to treat patients of all ages. I offer various psychotherapy services such as lifestyle modification, manifestation, and mindfulness, and view medications as a tool not as a solution. Currently, I serve as a Medical Officer in the United States Air Force and have extensive knowledge in writing Veteran Affairs disability claim evaluations. I received my BSN from UofL and my MSN from WKU.
![Photo of Heather King, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a22c44c-5472-44b7-9561-d3631da49e4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of EKU. I started my nursing career as a psychiatric RN. A few of my professional research interests are integrating alternative treatments into mental healthcare, and furthering our reach with technology. I have a master’s degree in nursing informatics and a post master’s degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. I love seeing individuals of all ages.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of EKU. I started my nursing career as a psychiatric RN. A few of my professional research interests are integrating alternative treatments into mental healthcare, and furthering our reach with technology. I have a master’s degree in nursing informatics and a post master’s degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. I love seeing individuals of all ages.
![Photo of Terry M Hagan - Hagan Health, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/137c7854-6a50-4944-a99a-3e6308f7de54/2/320x400.jpeg)
Generally speaking, and before we talk about you, just let me say that I am here to help. It can be intimidating to think about meeting a psychiatrist for the first time, and I understand that. In fact, I know that some people might find me intimidating, particularly after reading my bio, but I really want to be seen as that kind and gracious doctor who wants to help you. My style as a psychiatrist is to inform you and discuss options while respecting your right to make the decisions that are best for you. Nothing is decided about treatment without your full agreement. Sometimes I will tell a patient that “you are the captain
Generally speaking, and before we talk about you, just let me say that I am here to help. It can be intimidating to think about meeting a psychiatrist for the first time, and I understand that. In fact, I know that some people might find me intimidating, particularly after reading my bio, but I really want to be seen as that kind and gracious doctor who wants to help you. My style as a psychiatrist is to inform you and discuss options while respecting your right to make the decisions that are best for you. Nothing is decided about treatment without your full agreement. Sometimes I will tell a patient that “you are the captain
![Photo of John Christopher Dixon, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5464ae56-b2aa-4399-9b62-0e5484b6d81e/1/320x400.jpeg)
John Christopher Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40220 (Online Only)
Meet your ideal client—the courageous seeker of mental well-being. Struggling with diverse challenges like anxiety, depression, or life transitions, they yearn for understanding, healing, and inner harmony. Their goal is to reclaim joy and lead a fulfilling life, unburdened by mental health obstacles. Through a compassionate and holistic approach, I empower them to thrive on their transformative journey. Let's embark together towards a brighter, resilient future. Welcome to the path of healing.
Meet your ideal client—the courageous seeker of mental well-being. Struggling with diverse challenges like anxiety, depression, or life transitions, they yearn for understanding, healing, and inner harmony. Their goal is to reclaim joy and lead a fulfilling life, unburdened by mental health obstacles. Through a compassionate and holistic approach, I empower them to thrive on their transformative journey. Let's embark together towards a brighter, resilient future. Welcome to the path of healing.
![Photo of Elizabeth Smoot, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/447918be-3270-4815-ab2f-7187c34e531e/1/320x400.png)
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
![Photo of Sarah Thomas - Sarah Thomas | The Lotus Connection, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27f04d74-0b1f-4b06-ac1f-0fd13ff007a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Thomas | The Lotus Connection
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223 (Online Only)
My mission at The Lotus Connection is to normalize mental health as a part of the human experience and allow everyone to love and accept every part of themselves; knowing they are uniquely and beautifully made; accepting that we are each perfectly imperfect! Regardless of circumstances you feel you may presently be or have been in, you can rise above and blossom Beautifully and Gracefully as the Lotus Flower. I specialize in medication management for Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety), Depression, ADHD, Mood Disorders (Bipolar and Schizophrenia), and SUD.
My mission at The Lotus Connection is to normalize mental health as a part of the human experience and allow everyone to love and accept every part of themselves; knowing they are uniquely and beautifully made; accepting that we are each perfectly imperfect! Regardless of circumstances you feel you may presently be or have been in, you can rise above and blossom Beautifully and Gracefully as the Lotus Flower. I specialize in medication management for Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety), Depression, ADHD, Mood Disorders (Bipolar and Schizophrenia), and SUD.
![Photo of Sarah Schirmer, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60bf1a0a-7c34-4d68-b938-09362f4951e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Schirmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
I work with people who encounter frequent, strong emotions that they experience as problematic and then find themselves avoiding the life they want to live. My patients may struggle with intense anxiety and worry, distressing depression, or problems with focus, concentration, and productivity. We work together to remind you of your strengths, values, and goals and create a holistic plan that works for you. Instead of avoiding your life, you will learn to accept and tolerate your emotions and get back to doing the things that are meaningful for you.
I work with people who encounter frequent, strong emotions that they experience as problematic and then find themselves avoiding the life they want to live. My patients may struggle with intense anxiety and worry, distressing depression, or problems with focus, concentration, and productivity. We work together to remind you of your strengths, values, and goals and create a holistic plan that works for you. Instead of avoiding your life, you will learn to accept and tolerate your emotions and get back to doing the things that are meaningful for you.
![Photo of Dr. Angelina Strickland, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbb2515b-aec8-444a-8892-cc9b901bca24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angelina Strickland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40210
Our practice is dedicated to helping our clients live a healthier life both mentally and physically. I am board certified as both a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, so I look at your body as a whole to see how I can get you feeling better. I want you to feel safe when you come through our doors. It's ok, not to be ok.
Our practice is dedicated to helping our clients live a healthier life both mentally and physically. I am board certified as both a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner, so I look at your body as a whole to see how I can get you feeling better. I want you to feel safe when you come through our doors. It's ok, not to be ok.
![Photo of Danielle Bass, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b255f8e-6500-446f-be24-866ca9e1c1b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Bass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40229 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
See more therapy options for Louisville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Medication Management |
60% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
81% | Aetna |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Louisville, KY see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Louisville?
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.