Psychiatrists in 41022

Photo of Justine Sever Chilelli, Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN
Justine Sever Chilelli
Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am happy to be offering psychiatric treatment to the Northern Kentucky area. Dual board certification in both general psychiatry as well as child & adolescent psychiatry allows me to treat a wide age range of patients from age 5 through age 60; however my primarily areas of interest align with child, adolescent, and transitional adults.
I am happy to be offering psychiatric treatment to the Northern Kentucky area. Dual board certification in both general psychiatry as well as child & adolescent psychiatry allows me to treat a wide age range of patients from age 5 through age 60; however my primarily areas of interest align with child, adolescent, and transitional adults.
(859) 545-3798 View (859) 545-3798

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tina Shelton-Coomer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tina Shelton-Coomer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
(859) 648-3035 View (859) 648-3035
Photo of Tracey Nearon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Tracey Nearon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, KY 41001
Tracey is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her associate degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati Raymond Walters, her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Ohio University, and her master’s degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She has worked in healthcare for over 15 years with clinical experience in residential, inpatient acute care, and outpatient settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
Tracey is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her associate degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati Raymond Walters, her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Ohio University, and her master’s degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She has worked in healthcare for over 15 years with clinical experience in residential, inpatient acute care, and outpatient settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
(859) 605-3239 View (859) 605-3239
Photo of Summyji Groom, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
(307) 323-2545 View (307) 323-2545
Photo of Jose Cruz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jose Cruz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Jose Cruz, and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. My approach to mental health support is holistic and client centered. While my primary focus is medication management, therapeutic approaches are woven into sessions with clients, such as supportive therapy, solution focused therapy and behavioral activation. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. I see a number of clients who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I can help you manage a variety of mental health needs including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
My name is Jose Cruz, and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. My approach to mental health support is holistic and client centered. While my primary focus is medication management, therapeutic approaches are woven into sessions with clients, such as supportive therapy, solution focused therapy and behavioral activation. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. I see a number of clients who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I can help you manage a variety of mental health needs including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(859) 695-6320 View (859) 695-6320
Photo of Aiyesha Stiles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aiyesha Stiles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
(859) 208-2999 View (859) 208-2999
Photo of Angel Opara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angel Opara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based therapeutic care approach for my patients and getting you to the highest level of functioning. My areas of focus are ADHD management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and postpartum depression. My approach to providing mental healthcare is centered on compassion and patient-centered care. The most common theoretical approaches I use in my work are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychopharmacology, and person-centered therapy.
(859) 712-1041 View (859) 712-1041
Photo of Nkechinyere Nwosu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Nkechinyere Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Fort Thomas, KY 41075
Nkechinyere is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to patient care and the wellbeing of the mind and soul. She graduated from Liberty University with her PMHNP master's degree. She also holds a doctorate degree in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Nkechinyere is excited to be a part of the team at LifeStance and is welcoming new patients.
Nkechinyere is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is dedicated to patient care and the wellbeing of the mind and soul. She graduated from Liberty University with her PMHNP master's degree. She also holds a doctorate degree in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Nkechinyere is excited to be a part of the team at LifeStance and is welcoming new patients.
(859) 484-6802 View (859) 484-6802
Photo of Robert Bentley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Robert Bentley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Robert Bentley my patients and colleagues call me "Dr. Bob." I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with a DNP bringing over 23 years of expertise in public and mental health, specializing in ADHD, PTSD, addictions, schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression. My patients know me for my compassionate approach, I offer tailored treatments, including alcohol medication-assisted therapy, controlled substance tapers, and focused care for panic and sleep disorders. I am committed to treating patients like family, ensuring personalized, attentive care for every individual.
I am Dr. Robert Bentley my patients and colleagues call me "Dr. Bob." I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with a DNP bringing over 23 years of expertise in public and mental health, specializing in ADHD, PTSD, addictions, schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression. My patients know me for my compassionate approach, I offer tailored treatments, including alcohol medication-assisted therapy, controlled substance tapers, and focused care for panic and sleep disorders. I am committed to treating patients like family, ensuring personalized, attentive care for every individual.
(859) 374-3157 View (859) 374-3157
Photo of Lonna Louise Larger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, BC
Lonna Louise Larger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, BC
Verified Verified
Wilder, KY 41071
Hi there! I am Lonna Larger and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you on your path to wellness. I practice evidence-based medicine with a focus on trauma-informed care. Are you struggling with anxiety or flashbacks? Do you feel as if no one listens? Please come see me. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you would like to schedule an intake with me, please call 859-572-0400.
Hi there! I am Lonna Larger and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you on your path to wellness. I practice evidence-based medicine with a focus on trauma-informed care. Are you struggling with anxiety or flashbacks? Do you feel as if no one listens? Please come see me. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you would like to schedule an intake with me, please call 859-572-0400.
(859) 572-0400 View (859) 572-0400
Photo of Nicole Asante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville Tennessee and working with clients Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville Tennessee and working with clients Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(859) 696-7861 View (859) 696-7861
Photo of Adam Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Adam Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a psychiatric NP who has worked independently and in Community Health. I am passionate about the care of my clients of all ages. I learned that passion while serving on active duty in the military when I got to help out a doctor in an aid clinic which led to me becoming a nurse. I have lived all over the country including northern Alaska. I love dogs and camp as much as I am able to. Currently, I live in the greater Louisville area with my wife and 2 daughters.
I am a psychiatric NP who has worked independently and in Community Health. I am passionate about the care of my clients of all ages. I learned that passion while serving on active duty in the military when I got to help out a doctor in an aid clinic which led to me becoming a nurse. I have lived all over the country including northern Alaska. I love dogs and camp as much as I am able to. Currently, I live in the greater Louisville area with my wife and 2 daughters.
(859) 762-6667 View (859) 762-6667
Photo of Rachel Byrd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Rachel Byrd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Covington, KY 41011
At CHNK Behavioral Health, we serve children, adolescents, adults, and families who have mental health barriers, need addiction treatment, or are exhibiting other behaviors that negatively impact their daily lives at home, in the classroom, or at work.
At CHNK Behavioral Health, we serve children, adolescents, adults, and families who have mental health barriers, need addiction treatment, or are exhibiting other behaviors that negatively impact their daily lives at home, in the classroom, or at work.
(859) 279-4106 View (859) 279-4106
Photo of Angela Franke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Angela Franke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Thomas, KY 41075
Angela Franke, PMHNP, is a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner serving clients across Kentucky. Angela provides a supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued, offering compassionate listening as a core part of her therapeutic approach. She specializes in a range of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and substance use issues, tailoring her care to meet each person s unique needs.
Angela Franke, PMHNP, is a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner serving clients across Kentucky. Angela provides a supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued, offering compassionate listening as a core part of her therapeutic approach. She specializes in a range of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and substance use issues, tailoring her care to meet each person s unique needs.
(859) 349-1902 View (859) 349-1902
Photo of Kurt Kristiansen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Kurt Kristiansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
(502) 281-0323 View (502) 281-0323
Photo of Michelle Figueroa - Khalil Mind Kare, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Khalil Mind Kare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Navy veteran and have been a registered nurse since 2006.
I am a Navy veteran and have been a registered nurse since 2006.
(502) 431-2799 View (502) 431-2799
Photo of Ofonime J. Ekpe - Gloxel Mental and Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APRN
Gloxel Mental and Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you experiencing less interest in your regular hobbies or not just "caring anymore?" Are you experiencing excessive fear and anxiety that is hard to explain sometimes? Are you thinking maybe I have ADHD? Or wondering if perhaps the cause of your day-to-day struggles might be related to your past trauma? Do not carry the burden alone anymore. We can work together using an individualized treatment plan specific to your needs.
Are you experiencing less interest in your regular hobbies or not just "caring anymore?" Are you experiencing excessive fear and anxiety that is hard to explain sometimes? Are you thinking maybe I have ADHD? Or wondering if perhaps the cause of your day-to-day struggles might be related to your past trauma? Do not carry the burden alone anymore. We can work together using an individualized treatment plan specific to your needs.
(859) 374-3634 View (859) 374-3634
Photo of Sandra Edwards, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sandra Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
(859) 927-8539 View (859) 927-8539
Photo of Markquetta Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Markquetta Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
(859) 651-7686 View (859) 651-7686
Photo of Cindy Tufarella, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, BC
Cindy Tufarella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, KY 41001
Cindy Tufarella is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnnati. She earned her post master's in psychiatric/mental health from Rivier University. She has worked in healthcare for over 20 years including inpatient and outpatient mental health, clinic, and urgent care settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
Cindy Tufarella is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnnati. She earned her post master's in psychiatric/mental health from Rivier University. She has worked in healthcare for over 20 years including inpatient and outpatient mental health, clinic, and urgent care settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
(859) 955-8983 View (859) 955-8983

See more therapy options for 41022

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 41022

< 10

Psychiatrists in 41022 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Parenting
100% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

15 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in 41022 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 41022?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

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

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.