Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN
![Photo of Nikki Gaines, APRN, MBA, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41362ea9-9387-4990-aebb-b86b4a332116/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Gaines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MBA, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46206 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
![Photo of Rwana Abulaban, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3ff50a5-2f95-4a48-bb9f-35c8358304bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
Hi all! I would like to help people better understand their mental health and navigate their mental health conditions. I strive to provide compassionate care to my patients with effective listening and understanding while utilizing evidence-based care and treatment.
![Photo of Jennifer Jordan, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0c51284-4ee7-4edc-a892-e834bd9fc9fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny has almost three decades of experience caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. She graduated from Indiana University in 1993 with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and again in 2001 with her Master of Science in Nursing. In 2018, she became a Certified Pediatric Mental Health Specialist. Jenny is double certified in pediatrics and pediatric mental health. She has provided care for infants, children and adolescents as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner for 20 years. Jenny has extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior concerns, and sleep problems.
Jenny has almost three decades of experience caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. She graduated from Indiana University in 1993 with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and again in 2001 with her Master of Science in Nursing. In 2018, she became a Certified Pediatric Mental Health Specialist. Jenny is double certified in pediatrics and pediatric mental health. She has provided care for infants, children and adolescents as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner for 20 years. Jenny has extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior concerns, and sleep problems.
![Photo of Tanesha McWilliams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f43c2fc7-032c-49c6-b920-ffbbc4328f98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tanesha McWilliams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240 (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
Hello. My name is Tanesha, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing care for clients in Indiana. I have over 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings and specialties with several of those years being devoted to psychiatry and mental health.
![Photo of Heather Lett With Innate Way Wellness, MSN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/780a42ea-734b-4a41-9033-c18562008625/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Lett With Innate Way Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes given the right support, everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles. I love learning about my clients and how best to serve them! I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
Hello! Here is a little about me.... I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that believes given the right support, everyone is capable of healing. I utilize a holistic approach in treatment, and I am dedicated to supporting individuals and/or families looking for a more natural approach in healing from mental health struggles. I love learning about my clients and how best to serve them! I also support pregnant mothers and their families, which include pre/post pregnancy wellness into toddlerhood (parenting). Sometimes we just need someone to listen, help support us, and I am here to meet you right where you are!
![Photo of Abimbola D Oluwasesin, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b9f3f76-41f8-4881-9adf-23cdf27785bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abimbola D Oluwasesin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well. I am dedicated to improving the mental wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan. I am also committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking mental help. I care for all individuals across the lifespan.
![Photo of Lois Hughes, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd775e11-1a8d-459c-b70a-8d3418113712/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lois Hughes is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2000. She has a Masters in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health. Lois provides psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and pharmacologic management with supportive counseling. Outside of work, Lois enjoys rug hooking and primitive rug hooking, sewing, and embroidering. She loves spending time with her husband, Mike, and playing with their dog, Bear.
Lois Hughes is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana who has been practicing since 2000. She has a Masters in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health. Lois provides psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and pharmacologic management with supportive counseling. Outside of work, Lois enjoys rug hooking and primitive rug hooking, sewing, and embroidering. She loves spending time with her husband, Mike, and playing with their dog, Bear.
![Photo of Heidi Needler, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82c0ca34-b3ed-400c-be8e-aec6302c2bd8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Needler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana. Since 2022, Heidi has been working alongside clients in a variety of mental health settings – outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization. Prior to achieving her NP, Heidi was a practicing RN for 14yrs. She has been nominated for a Daisy Award for her compassion, warmth, and attentive care. Heidi provides holistic care with a focus on mental health disorders. Her passion is partnering with patients experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, as well as psychosis/schizophrenia to improve their quality of life.
Heidi Needler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana. Since 2022, Heidi has been working alongside clients in a variety of mental health settings – outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization. Prior to achieving her NP, Heidi was a practicing RN for 14yrs. She has been nominated for a Daisy Award for her compassion, warmth, and attentive care. Heidi provides holistic care with a focus on mental health disorders. Her passion is partnering with patients experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, as well as psychosis/schizophrenia to improve their quality of life.
![Photo of Bethany Monte, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/854f891d-b523-4137-ab20-04312521fb98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany Monte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46203
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry, I offer holistic care to men, women, and teens. Beyond conventional medication management, my approach delves into the root causes of mental health issues. I emphasize informed choices regarding medication, tailored to your needs, while also integrating lifestyle changes, nutritional guidance, and mindfulness. Committed to understanding and respecting your unique experiences, we'll collaborate on a treatment plan that empowers you towards lasting wellness.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry, I offer holistic care to men, women, and teens. Beyond conventional medication management, my approach delves into the root causes of mental health issues. I emphasize informed choices regarding medication, tailored to your needs, while also integrating lifestyle changes, nutritional guidance, and mindfulness. Committed to understanding and respecting your unique experiences, we'll collaborate on a treatment plan that empowers you towards lasting wellness.
![Photo of Laura Johnston - Helix Health Group, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2c8640d-9fb9-4f2e-992c-38b22d327855/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
![Photo of Michelle Porter, DNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a73c3ba7-6931-4bbf-a7ab-2f93de4dfef1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle’s journey in mental health began in California, where she grew up before moving to Indiana in 2013 to attend Purdue University. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017, she continued her education and training in Nashville, Tennessee, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s nurse residency program. In 2023, Michelle achieved her Doctorate in Nursing Practice specializing in psychiatric mental health from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
Michelle’s journey in mental health began in California, where she grew up before moving to Indiana in 2013 to attend Purdue University. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017, she continued her education and training in Nashville, Tennessee, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s nurse residency program. In 2023, Michelle achieved her Doctorate in Nursing Practice specializing in psychiatric mental health from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
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![Photo of Sabrina White, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e564fd64-ef93-4361-ae06-29e0e36c6ed6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabrina White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am co-owner of Clear Perspectives and an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats patients across the life-span. Additionally, I am certified in the treatment of Perinatal Mood Disorders through Postpartum Support International. I believe in a whole patient approach to mental health care including ongoing collaboration with providers, families and utilizing the latest research.
I am co-owner of Clear Perspectives and an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats patients across the life-span. Additionally, I am certified in the treatment of Perinatal Mood Disorders through Postpartum Support International. I believe in a whole patient approach to mental health care including ongoing collaboration with providers, families and utilizing the latest research.
![Photo of Jerri Molina, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e9b5734-f066-4c59-817a-f28c00df540e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jerri Molina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Indiana and Kentucky since 2015. I have been in nursing and healthcare for over 28 years. I am comfortable treating children to older adults.
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Indiana and Kentucky since 2015. I have been in nursing and healthcare for over 28 years. I am comfortable treating children to older adults.
![Photo of Keegan Crocker - PhaseForward, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a66f8b4c-826a-4553-a5b7-cd533d8dbe7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
PhaseForward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46216
Our mission is to provide quality, compassionate, and evidenced-based mental health treatment by promoting forward personal growth and psychological health. We seek to empower our clients to confront individual barriers throughout different phases of life with the goal of reducing and/or eliminating symptoms. We collaborate with our clients to tailor interventions specific to their individual needs.
Our mission is to provide quality, compassionate, and evidenced-based mental health treatment by promoting forward personal growth and psychological health. We seek to empower our clients to confront individual barriers throughout different phases of life with the goal of reducing and/or eliminating symptoms. We collaborate with our clients to tailor interventions specific to their individual needs.
![Photo of Augusta Ify Nobel - AIMbehavioralservices , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e164da7f-27ff-4808-aad8-93efadc145f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
AIMbehavioralservices
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46254
I specialize in medication management as well as psycho-education therapy. My ideal clients usually deal with depression, anxiety and ADHD. They will need medication management for their symptoms and other related factors.
I specialize in medication management as well as psycho-education therapy. My ideal clients usually deal with depression, anxiety and ADHD. They will need medication management for their symptoms and other related factors.
![Photo of Timothy Poquette, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88e32cfb-c116-4112-aa53-b604a6c03cee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Timothy Poquette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have five years experience providing medication management services in inpatient, outpatient, and individual psychiatric treatment settings.
Greetings! My name is Timothy Poquette and I am a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Indiana. I have five years experience providing medication management services in inpatient, outpatient, and individual psychiatric treatment settings.
![Photo of Ashley Hamilton, MS, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc420220-9391-4a9a-bf48-7d18ae896e2c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi, my name is Ashley! As a pediatric nurse of 20 years I saw the struggles that our youth (and their parents) were having with mental health. While seeking care for my own children and finding a limited amount of providers or long waitlists, I felt a calling to be part of the solution. My ideal client is someone who is open to help, even if they are nervous, scared or unsure. I hope you will find me to be a caring and empathetic provider who wants to walk alongside you in yours or your loved ones treatment.
Hi, my name is Ashley! As a pediatric nurse of 20 years I saw the struggles that our youth (and their parents) were having with mental health. While seeking care for my own children and finding a limited amount of providers or long waitlists, I felt a calling to be part of the solution. My ideal client is someone who is open to help, even if they are nervous, scared or unsure. I hope you will find me to be a caring and empathetic provider who wants to walk alongside you in yours or your loved ones treatment.
![Photo of Mario Padron - Focus ADHD Indianapolis, DO, JD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9371931-a2d1-4f01-bc09-051e346eb172/1/320x400.jpeg)
Focus ADHD Indianapolis
Psychiatrist, DO, JD, MPH
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (Online Only)
Are you an adult struggling with ADHD? If so, you’re not alone. The providers at Focus ADHD specialize in the treatment of ADHD in adults, particularly working professionals. ADHD affects millions of adults in the US and worldwide. The good news is that Dr. Mario Padron helps individuals like yourself who struggle with ADHD. With a proper diagnosis and a customized treatment plan, you CAN live a less frustrating, more fulfilling life. Focus ADHD is committed to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental clinic where you feel comfortable to come and share your symptoms, struggles, and your concerns.
Are you an adult struggling with ADHD? If so, you’re not alone. The providers at Focus ADHD specialize in the treatment of ADHD in adults, particularly working professionals. ADHD affects millions of adults in the US and worldwide. The good news is that Dr. Mario Padron helps individuals like yourself who struggle with ADHD. With a proper diagnosis and a customized treatment plan, you CAN live a less frustrating, more fulfilling life. Focus ADHD is committed to creating a welcoming, non-judgmental clinic where you feel comfortable to come and share your symptoms, struggles, and your concerns.
![Photo of Tajuana Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22068d50-a8eb-4a2a-b20a-e17606d02b0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.
My name is Tajuana Davis. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner who specializes in ADHD and Addiction. I also treat individuals who suffer from Anxiety, Depression and Mood disorders. My passion is all of the above.
![Photo of Eric Lyakhovetsky, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f197241e-aa60-4fc1-8818-39ce1c698ce9/1/320x400.png)
Eric Lyakhovetsky is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and has been involved in the psychiatric care of children and adults since 2010. He has studied at a variety of colleges including Indiana University, Bloomington before finishing his masters at Indiana University, Purdue University, Indianapolis. Eric takes a holistic, patient-centered approach to treatment, with an emphasis on helping patients to understand their conditions and treatment options. He has extensive experience working with children, teens and adults ranging up to age 35 with a variety of conditions including ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Eric Lyakhovetsky is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and has been involved in the psychiatric care of children and adults since 2010. He has studied at a variety of colleges including Indiana University, Bloomington before finishing his masters at Indiana University, Purdue University, Indianapolis. Eric takes a holistic, patient-centered approach to treatment, with an emphasis on helping patients to understand their conditions and treatment options. He has extensive experience working with children, teens and adults ranging up to age 35 with a variety of conditions including ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma.
See more therapy options for Indianapolis
Nearby Searches for Indianapolis
- Avon
- Brownsburg
- Carmel
- Castleton
- Clermont
- Fishers
- Greenwood
- McCordsville
- Noblesville
- Plainfield
- Westfield
- Zionsville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
78% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Medication Management |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Indianapolis, IN see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
23% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Indianapolis?
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.