Psychiatrists in 43015

Photo of Awa Ndiaye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Awa Ndiaye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am glad that you are taking this step to improve your mental health. Together, we will develop a comprehensive plan so that you can get the tools you need to help you reach your goals. It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and for that I appreciate you. Please contact me to see if we're a good fit. I am a dual-board-certified family (FNP) and psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I have over 15 years of excellent quality healthcare experience. I have worked in multiple settings: hospital, home care, primary care, psychiatry care clinics, insurance and hospice.
I am glad that you are taking this step to improve your mental health. Together, we will develop a comprehensive plan so that you can get the tools you need to help you reach your goals. It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and for that I appreciate you. Please contact me to see if we're a good fit. I am a dual-board-certified family (FNP) and psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I have over 15 years of excellent quality healthcare experience. I have worked in multiple settings: hospital, home care, primary care, psychiatry care clinics, insurance and hospice.
(740) 265-2667 View (740) 265-2667
Photo of Mark Tuvelle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Mark Tuvelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and want to always ensure that my clients feel they are “being listened to”. I believe a provider must truly listen to understand their client’s concerns, thus ensuring that the patient's priorities are being addressed. I prioritize health promotion, patient education, and psychotherapy.
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and want to always ensure that my clients feel they are “being listened to”. I believe a provider must truly listen to understand their client’s concerns, thus ensuring that the patient's priorities are being addressed. I prioritize health promotion, patient education, and psychotherapy.
(380) 207-1922 View (380) 207-1922
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Delaware, OH 43015
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(740) 660-3748 View (740) 660-3748
Photo of Ndematelen Asong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ndematelen Asong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as a nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She worked as a registered nurse and noted an increased need for behavioral health providers. She felt she could help make behavioral health care more accessible; she therefore, returned to school at Maryville University and obtained an MSN in Psychiatry.
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as a nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She worked as a registered nurse and noted an increased need for behavioral health providers. She felt she could help make behavioral health care more accessible; she therefore, returned to school at Maryville University and obtained an MSN in Psychiatry.
(740) 842-8182 View (740) 842-8182
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Delaware, OH 43015
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(740) 761-2270 View (740) 761-2270
Photo of Michele Huffman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Michele Huffman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood disorders? You don’t have to face it alone. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care, combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle guidance tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to help you regain control, improve daily functioning, and build resilience so you can experience clarity, relief, and empowerment. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready for change, I’m here to help you find balance and live a more fulfilling life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood disorders? You don’t have to face it alone. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care, combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle guidance tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to help you regain control, improve daily functioning, and build resilience so you can experience clarity, relief, and empowerment. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready for change, I’m here to help you find balance and live a more fulfilling life.
(614) 963-8855 View (614) 963-8855
Photo of Dr. Kim Nguyen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kim Nguyen
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Optimal mental health is the goal, not just the absence of disease. The body, mind, and environment operate as a whole. You can’t treat a symptom without addressing the root cause. Extra time allows me to be thorough, listen to your story without interrupting, and discuss treatment plans in detail. This allows me to provide higher quality care and enables you to feel heard and understood in a way you may never have felt before.
Optimal mental health is the goal, not just the absence of disease. The body, mind, and environment operate as a whole. You can’t treat a symptom without addressing the root cause. Extra time allows me to be thorough, listen to your story without interrupting, and discuss treatment plans in detail. This allows me to provide higher quality care and enables you to feel heard and understood in a way you may never have felt before.
(330) 302-3092 View (330) 302-3092
Photo of Stacey Molle - Spectrum Mental Health Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LISW
Spectrum Mental Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LISW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are now accepting clients in Columbus and Bowling Green! What does S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. stand for? Safety. Pride. Education. Compassion. Truth. Respect. Unity. Mindfulness. Spectrum specializes in providing mental health and wellness services in an open, non-judgemental, AND affordable delivery model. We think outside of the box and tailor care to the individual. We pride ourselves on our affirming, holistic approach.
We are now accepting clients in Columbus and Bowling Green! What does S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. stand for? Safety. Pride. Education. Compassion. Truth. Respect. Unity. Mindfulness. Spectrum specializes in providing mental health and wellness services in an open, non-judgemental, AND affordable delivery model. We think outside of the box and tailor care to the individual. We pride ourselves on our affirming, holistic approach.
(380) 212-2520 View (380) 212-2520
Photo of Taylor Buck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNPBC
Taylor Buck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
As a dedicated PMHNP, I offer a holistic and evidence-based approach to patient care, for persons seeking help with mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Recognizing the complexity of mental health, I emphasize understanding each individual's unique needs and preferences to develop personalized treatment plans. My treatment style includes open communication and teamwork, where patients are active participants in their healing journey. Together, we navigate through challenges, explore therapeutic interventions, and optimize medication regimens to achieve sustainable improvement in mental health.
As a dedicated PMHNP, I offer a holistic and evidence-based approach to patient care, for persons seeking help with mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Recognizing the complexity of mental health, I emphasize understanding each individual's unique needs and preferences to develop personalized treatment plans. My treatment style includes open communication and teamwork, where patients are active participants in their healing journey. Together, we navigate through challenges, explore therapeutic interventions, and optimize medication regimens to achieve sustainable improvement in mental health.
(614) 591-8516 View (614) 591-8516

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Marie Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
If you're feeling stuck in depression, anxiety, or hopelessness, you're not alone—and help is available. I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I provide comprehensive mental health evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults aged 20 and older. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I understand that mental health looks different for everyone; my approach is collaborative and personalized, helping you clarify your goals and work toward meaningful, lasting change.
If you're feeling stuck in depression, anxiety, or hopelessness, you're not alone—and help is available. I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I provide comprehensive mental health evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults aged 20 and older. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I understand that mental health looks different for everyone; my approach is collaborative and personalized, helping you clarify your goals and work toward meaningful, lasting change.
(513) 875-7722 View (513) 875-7722
Photo of Brandi Martinez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Brandi Martinez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Online Only
Greetings, I'm Brandi Martinez a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been working in mental health for 8 years. I have worked in various roles in health care for over 20 years. I enjoy helping people become the best versions of themselves.
Greetings, I'm Brandi Martinez a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been working in mental health for 8 years. I have worked in various roles in health care for over 20 years. I enjoy helping people become the best versions of themselves.
View
Photo of Kelly Nicole Walters, Psychiatric Nurse, FNP, CPNP, APRN
Kelly Nicole Walters
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP, CPNP, APRN
Online Only
My ideal client is someone managing ADHD, chronic illnesses, allergies, asthma, or hypertension. They seek compassionate, person-focused care that respects their unique needs. Their goal is to improve daily functioning, manage symptoms effectively, and feel empowered in their healthcare journey. They want a provider who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their well-being.
My ideal client is someone managing ADHD, chronic illnesses, allergies, asthma, or hypertension. They seek compassionate, person-focused care that respects their unique needs. Their goal is to improve daily functioning, manage symptoms effectively, and feel empowered in their healthcare journey. They want a provider who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their well-being.
(216) 294-2543 View (216) 294-2543
Photo of Ramona Bhatt, Psychiatrist, DO
Ramona Bhatt
Psychiatrist, DO
Westerville, OH 43081
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
(614) 418-6712 View (614) 418-6712
Photo of Magdalene Edo - Calvary Family and Mental health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Calvary Family and Mental health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Columbus, OH 43215
Hello, I’m Maggie. A seasoned Psychiatry mental health Nurse Practitioner. Feel free to reach out to me if you or your loved ones are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, sleeping disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, addiction, or low self-esteem. I Possess extensive knowledge about mental health and the challenges it poses to our daily lives.
Hello, I’m Maggie. A seasoned Psychiatry mental health Nurse Practitioner. Feel free to reach out to me if you or your loved ones are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, sleeping disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, addiction, or low self-esteem. I Possess extensive knowledge about mental health and the challenges it poses to our daily lives.
(614) 414-3620 View (614) 414-3620
Photo of Kerri Pearch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kerri Pearch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My passion is helping people improve their quality of life through unpacking the past and working towards a better future through medication and therapy. I enjoy working with all patients struggling with mental health and find that being a genuine listener helps to create a bond between myself and my patients.
My passion is helping people improve their quality of life through unpacking the past and working towards a better future through medication and therapy. I enjoy working with all patients struggling with mental health and find that being a genuine listener helps to create a bond between myself and my patients.
(513) 845-3797 View (513) 845-3797
Photo of Taylor Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Taylor Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, and sleep/insomnia. I am passionate about providing quality, evidence-based, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and young adults. As a PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, and sleep/insomnia. I am passionate about providing quality, evidence-based, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and young adults. As a PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager.
(614) 541-1966 View (614) 541-1966
Photo of Jane Aridge, Psychiatric Nurse
Jane Aridge
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jane Aridge. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over twenty years of mental health and medical experience working with children and adults. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I utilize evidence-based practices when treating mental health disorders. I believe in working with clients and using a holistic approach when treating you or your loved one’s mental health disorders.
Hello, my name is Jane Aridge. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over twenty years of mental health and medical experience working with children and adults. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I utilize evidence-based practices when treating mental health disorders. I believe in working with clients and using a holistic approach when treating you or your loved one’s mental health disorders.
(513) 613-4858 View (513) 613-4858
Photo of Judy Murua, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Judy Murua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in mental health across the lifespan. My approach to mental health is rooted in a holistic and patient-centered philosophy. I believe in integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that impact mental health.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in mental health across the lifespan. My approach to mental health is rooted in a holistic and patient-centered philosophy. I believe in integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that impact mental health.
(380) 230-3989 View (380) 230-3989
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych 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. Affordable out of pocket rates. Also Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych 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. Affordable out of pocket rates. Also Accepting some insurance plans.
(614) 347-0826 View (614) 347-0826
Photo of Constance Hartgrove, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Constance Hartgrove
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Hello and welcome—I'm so glad you're here. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with over eight years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of primary and mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, OCD, and more. I’ve had the privilege of working with clients of all ages and am currently welcoming new adolescent and adult clients, ages 13 and up. I believe healing happens when we care for the heart, soul, and mind—and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward wholeness with compassion, understanding, and support.
Hello and welcome—I'm so glad you're here. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with over eight years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of primary and mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, OCD, and more. I’ve had the privilege of working with clients of all ages and am currently welcoming new adolescent and adult clients, ages 13 and up. I believe healing happens when we care for the heart, soul, and mind—and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward wholeness with compassion, understanding, and support.
(614) 389-9810 View (614) 389-9810

See more therapy options for 43015

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43015

< 10

Psychiatrists in 43015 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Bipolar Disorder
89% ADHD
78% Anxiety
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Trauma and PTSD
67% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 43015 see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43015?

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.