Psychiatrists in 43035

Photo of Patience Okoroafor, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Patience Okoroafor
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
10 Endorsed
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Welcome! You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, or life changes, and searching for real solutions. My clients want more than symptom relief, they seek lasting balance, healing, and a deeper sense of well-being. I offer a holistic approach to mental health, combining conventional medicine, nutrition, and complementary care. Through medication management, personalized labs, genetic testing, and lifestyle coaching, we’ll work together to nurture and heal your mind, body, and soul.
Welcome! You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, or life changes, and searching for real solutions. My clients want more than symptom relief, they seek lasting balance, healing, and a deeper sense of well-being. I offer a holistic approach to mental health, combining conventional medicine, nutrition, and complementary care. Through medication management, personalized labs, genetic testing, and lifestyle coaching, we’ll work together to nurture and heal your mind, body, and soul.
(740) 486-9363 View (740) 486-9363
Ardent Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BS
Online Only
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
(740) 272-4868 View (740) 272-4868
Photo of Halle McConnell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Halle McConnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally stuck—even while appearing “fine” on the outside? I am a PMHNP-BC and I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and burnout. My clients are often high-achieving but struggling to feel present, calm, or in control. I offer thoughtful psychiatric care, including diagnosis, medication management, and supportive therapy. My approach is warm, clear, and collaborative. Let’s help you feel like yourself again.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally stuck—even while appearing “fine” on the outside? I am a PMHNP-BC and I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and burnout. My clients are often high-achieving but struggling to feel present, calm, or in control. I offer thoughtful psychiatric care, including diagnosis, medication management, and supportive therapy. My approach is warm, clear, and collaborative. Let’s help you feel like yourself again.
(614) 877-6319 View (614) 877-6319

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Amy Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Amy Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Powell, OH 43065
Are you looking for a provider to partner with you to identify and treat the root causes of mental health symptoms and suffering? As a dually certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Amy Smith practices from an integrative psychiatric approach to exploring the mental health symptoms, physical health, environmental and lifestyle components of a person’s life to identify root causes and develop a comprehensive treatment map to reach optimal mental health wellness.
Are you looking for a provider to partner with you to identify and treat the root causes of mental health symptoms and suffering? As a dually certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Amy Smith practices from an integrative psychiatric approach to exploring the mental health symptoms, physical health, environmental and lifestyle components of a person’s life to identify root causes and develop a comprehensive treatment map to reach optimal mental health wellness.
(740) 245-3848 View (740) 245-3848
Photo of Laura Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Laura Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new clients- with evening and weekend availability! Laura provides psychiatric care for clients who want more than just a prescription. She focuses on the whole person—your stressors, your goals, and the life you want to build. She works especially well with veterans, new mothers, first-generation cycle-breakers, young adults navigating life transitions, and clients with OCD, bipolar, or stable schizophrenia. She creates a space where clients feel comfortable sharing what’s really going on in their lives and exploring practical ways to move forward. She is LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent affirming, helping all clients feel safe,
Accepting new clients- with evening and weekend availability! Laura provides psychiatric care for clients who want more than just a prescription. She focuses on the whole person—your stressors, your goals, and the life you want to build. She works especially well with veterans, new mothers, first-generation cycle-breakers, young adults navigating life transitions, and clients with OCD, bipolar, or stable schizophrenia. She creates a space where clients feel comfortable sharing what’s really going on in their lives and exploring practical ways to move forward. She is LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent affirming, helping all clients feel safe,
(419) 406-4433 View (419) 406-4433
Photo of Sarah Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Sarah Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Worthington, OH 43085
Struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD? Feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Mental health struggles can feel isolating, but healing is possible with the right support. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for individuals as young as 6 years old through adulthood. My goal is to help you take control of your mental health not be defined by a diagnosis. With a background as a licensed therapist, I take a holistic, patient-centered approach, blending my clinical therapy experience with psychiatric care
Struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD? Feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Mental health struggles can feel isolating, but healing is possible with the right support. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for individuals as young as 6 years old through adulthood. My goal is to help you take control of your mental health not be defined by a diagnosis. With a background as a licensed therapist, I take a holistic, patient-centered approach, blending my clinical therapy experience with psychiatric care
(419) 928-5242 View (419) 928-5242
Photo of Holly A Schweitzer - ONE Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
ONE Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Columbus, OH 43215
Here at ONE we believe in providing individualized mental health care for every ONE. We understand that you are unique. We will value this uniqueness as part of your process towards mental, emotional, and psychological healing. Our providers are knowledgeable in the latest innovations in evidence-based care, while also allowing for opportunity to integrate specific care paths for your individual needs.
Here at ONE we believe in providing individualized mental health care for every ONE. We understand that you are unique. We will value this uniqueness as part of your process towards mental, emotional, and psychological healing. Our providers are knowledgeable in the latest innovations in evidence-based care, while also allowing for opportunity to integrate specific care paths for your individual needs.
(380) 220-7276 View (380) 220-7276
Columbus Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Hilliard, OH 43026
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and adult psychiatry. My services include the diagnosis and treatment of all mental illnesses in children/adolescents/adult including, but not limited to, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders and PTSD. I am also interested in treating women who are pregnant/postpartum, and nursing. I am comfortable in the setting of treating co-morbid medical and psychiatric concerns. I only utilize medication when necessary.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and adult psychiatry. My services include the diagnosis and treatment of all mental illnesses in children/adolescents/adult including, but not limited to, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders and PTSD. I am also interested in treating women who are pregnant/postpartum, and nursing. I am comfortable in the setting of treating co-morbid medical and psychiatric concerns. I only utilize medication when necessary.
(614) 972-1256 View (614) 972-1256
Photo of Danielle Khan - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Hilliard, OH 43026
Danielle Khan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC); she is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She earned a master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and was eligible for the International Honors Society of Nursing. Danielle sees adults ages 18 to 65+ and specializes in addiction, adjustment disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, panic disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, SAD, and veterans. She is a caring provider who understands the debilitating impact mental health has on individuals and families.
Danielle Khan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC); she is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She earned a master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and was eligible for the International Honors Society of Nursing. Danielle sees adults ages 18 to 65+ and specializes in addiction, adjustment disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, panic disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, SAD, and veterans. She is a caring provider who understands the debilitating impact mental health has on individuals and families.
(380) 600-8854 View (380) 600-8854
Photo of Sarah Niese, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, FNP
Sarah Niese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
Welcome! Align Psychiatry & Wellness is a psychiatry practice serving children, adolescents, and adults ages 6 and up. I offer both in-person and telemedicine appointments to create a comfortable, supportive space for care. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic evaluation and medication management for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer adjunctive hormone, weight loss, and supplement services designed to support both physical health and overall mental wellness.
Welcome! Align Psychiatry & Wellness is a psychiatry practice serving children, adolescents, and adults ages 6 and up. I offer both in-person and telemedicine appointments to create a comfortable, supportive space for care. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic evaluation and medication management for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer adjunctive hormone, weight loss, and supplement services designed to support both physical health and overall mental wellness.
(740) 715-3728 View (740) 715-3728
Photo of Dauntrica Wallstrum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Dauntrica Wallstrum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43213
Dauntrica Wallstrum is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master’s degree from The Ohio State University and dual bachelor’s degrees from Ashland University. She has previous history working with mental health in the community setting and working with varying psychiatric diagnoses. She sees children, ages 5 and up, adolescents, and adults. Her focus is on the individual as a whole to help work towards achieving wellness.
Dauntrica Wallstrum is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master’s degree from The Ohio State University and dual bachelor’s degrees from Ashland University. She has previous history working with mental health in the community setting and working with varying psychiatric diagnoses. She sees children, ages 5 and up, adolescents, and adults. Her focus is on the individual as a whole to help work towards achieving wellness.
(380) 208-1844 View (380) 208-1844
Photo of Sophia Kassem, Psychiatrist, DO
Sophia Kassem
Psychiatrist, DO
Worthington, OH 43085
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6-50. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6-50. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
(614) 226-5484 View (614) 226-5484
Photo of Stephanie Nichols, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Nichols
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43215
You shouldn’t have to guess why you feel "off." Many of the women I work with arrive feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. They are often stuck in a cycle of questioning their own experiences—wondering if their struggles are "just stress" or something deeper involving hormone shifts and mental health. It can be incredibly isolating to seek answers only to feel dismissed or rushed through an appointment.
You shouldn’t have to guess why you feel "off." Many of the women I work with arrive feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. They are often stuck in a cycle of questioning their own experiences—wondering if their struggles are "just stress" or something deeper involving hormone shifts and mental health. It can be incredibly isolating to seek answers only to feel dismissed or rushed through an appointment.
(380) 246-3304 View (380) 246-3304
Photo of Gerald Makobong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP
Columbus, OH 43220
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
(614) 360-2911 View (614) 360-2911
Photo of Nyla Bintu Smith - Nyla Bintu Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Nyla Bintu Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
(513) 647-6377 View (513) 647-6377
Photo of Halimat Adenike Oyabambi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Halimat Adenike Oyabambi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Pickerington, OH 43147
Welcome and congratulations. I am glad you made it here. I understand the typical challenges individuals with mental health issues face, both in and out of the healthcare system (stigma, judgement, prejudice, and discrimination), leading to barriers in getting and /or reluctance in seeking help. Also, of importance is your unique experience which may have shaped how you feel about yourself, and the world around you. Therefore, It is very important for me to hear your story, as it helps me better understand your needs and the challenges you may be facing.
Welcome and congratulations. I am glad you made it here. I understand the typical challenges individuals with mental health issues face, both in and out of the healthcare system (stigma, judgement, prejudice, and discrimination), leading to barriers in getting and /or reluctance in seeking help. Also, of importance is your unique experience which may have shaped how you feel about yourself, and the world around you. Therefore, It is very important for me to hear your story, as it helps me better understand your needs and the challenges you may be facing.
(740) 327-5542 x209 View (740) 327-5542 x209
Photo of Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Columbus, OH 43213
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, PMHNP, offers a wide range of services to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She provides medication management and individual therapy, helping her patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Ifeoma’s compassionate care and expertise spans a variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. She is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues and helping individuals manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, PMHNP, offers a wide range of services to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She provides medication management and individual therapy, helping her patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Ifeoma’s compassionate care and expertise spans a variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. She is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues and helping individuals manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
(614) 412-1691 View (614) 412-1691
Photo of Angela Diahann Sullivan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APRN, MSN
Angela Diahann Sullivan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APRN, MSN
Serves Area
My goal is to help those patients who are struggling with a mental health disorder to obtain proper treatment early on in the disease process. Mental health disorders, if not treated properly, can lead to multiple, multisystem complications.
My goal is to help those patients who are struggling with a mental health disorder to obtain proper treatment early on in the disease process. Mental health disorders, if not treated properly, can lead to multiple, multisystem complications.
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Photo of Mark Erik Blair - Optimum TMS, Psychiatrist, MD
Optimum TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Columbus, OH 43215
Dr. Blair and Optimum TMS, utilize the most technologically advanced treatment for those individuals suffering from treatment resistant depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation, or "TMS." If you or someone you know suffers from depression and have tried various medications without success, TMS could be a treatment option you should explore. TMS has a response rate of 75% and a full remission rate of around 30%.
Dr. Blair and Optimum TMS, utilize the most technologically advanced treatment for those individuals suffering from treatment resistant depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation, or "TMS." If you or someone you know suffers from depression and have tried various medications without success, TMS could be a treatment option you should explore. TMS has a response rate of 75% and a full remission rate of around 30%.
(380) 207-0958 View (380) 207-0958
Photo of Mourine J Nyangoro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Mourine J Nyangoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43229
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
(614) 683-4373 View (614) 683-4373

See more therapy options for 43035

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43035

< 10

Psychiatrists in 43035 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Suicidal Ideation
33% Child

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Optum
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 43035 see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43035?

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.