Psychiatrists in 43040

Photo of Matthew Hauenstein, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Matthew Hauenstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Marysville, OH 43040
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to empowering individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. My practice is built on the belief that every person deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. I specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based care to adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and other mental health concerns. What sets me apart is my holistic approach, blending advanced clinical expertise with genuine empathy.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to empowering individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. My practice is built on the belief that every person deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. I specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based care to adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and other mental health concerns. What sets me apart is my holistic approach, blending advanced clinical expertise with genuine empathy.
(937) 821-6458 View (937) 821-6458
Photo of Christine Boysel - Meaningful Believable Solutions LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
Meaningful Believable Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We understand the profound impact of mental health disorders and the challenges they pose. Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, we’re here to support you every step of the way with the best treatment practices and personalized care.
We understand the profound impact of mental health disorders and the challenges they pose. Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, we’re here to support you every step of the way with the best treatment practices and personalized care.
(937) 826-3552 View (937) 826-3552
Photo of Brandy Smith - Marching On Pediatric Mental Health Care, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
Marching On Pediatric Mental Health Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
Online Only
Providing exceptional mental health care to the pediatric population is my number one goal. Continuing to break the stigma associated with mental health, I'm a non-judgemental listening ear and strive to help children reach their true potential. Specializing in pediatric trauma, I not only can help with medication management, but also provide resources to ensure your child is receiving a well-rounded treatment approach.
Providing exceptional mental health care to the pediatric population is my number one goal. Continuing to break the stigma associated with mental health, I'm a non-judgemental listening ear and strive to help children reach their true potential. Specializing in pediatric trauma, I not only can help with medication management, but also provide resources to ensure your child is receiving a well-rounded treatment approach.
(937) 731-3014 View (937) 731-3014
Photo of Michael W Barnes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA
Michael W Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, sleep disturbances, and personality disorders. My approach to care is deeply patient-centered, where compassion, empathy, and respect are the cornerstones of every interaction. In our initial 60-minute session, I conduct a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including a diagnostic assessment and the creation of a personalized treatment plan. Our follow-up appointments, which are typically 30 minutes, focus on medication management and integrated psychotherapy.
I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, sleep disturbances, and personality disorders. My approach to care is deeply patient-centered, where compassion, empathy, and respect are the cornerstones of every interaction. In our initial 60-minute session, I conduct a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including a diagnostic assessment and the creation of a personalized treatment plan. Our follow-up appointments, which are typically 30 minutes, focus on medication management and integrated psychotherapy.
(937) 870-2380 View (937) 870-2380

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Julianna Campbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Julianna Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Columbus, OH 43219
Julianna’s areas of focus include addressing midlife transitions, PTSD/trauma, and sleep disorders. She is passionate about helping clients overcome the emotional and physical impacts of these conditions through thoughtful and personalized treatment plans. Her dedication to patient-centered care ensures that individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered throughout their mental health journey. Outside of her professional practice, Julianna enjoys spending time with her husband, their five dogs, and two cats. She is an active member of her local church and finds fulfillment in traveling and connecting with friends and family.
Julianna’s areas of focus include addressing midlife transitions, PTSD/trauma, and sleep disorders. She is passionate about helping clients overcome the emotional and physical impacts of these conditions through thoughtful and personalized treatment plans. Her dedication to patient-centered care ensures that individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered throughout their mental health journey. Outside of her professional practice, Julianna enjoys spending time with her husband, their five dogs, and two cats. She is an active member of her local church and finds fulfillment in traveling and connecting with friends and family.
(740) 762-4516 View (740) 762-4516
Photo of Lisa Mascioli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lisa Mascioli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Lisa is committed to delivering compassionate care to all clients. My mission is to promote warmth and kindness in the community by providing integrative psychiatric care that includes medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions. I am honored to be a part your journey towards wellness and look forward to serving you with the professionalism
Lisa is committed to delivering compassionate care to all clients. My mission is to promote warmth and kindness in the community by providing integrative psychiatric care that includes medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions. I am honored to be a part your journey towards wellness and look forward to serving you with the professionalism
(740) 480-3904 View (740) 480-3904
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 Shumeka Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC, LCDCII
Shumeka Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC, LCDCII
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
(872) 217-4745 View (872) 217-4745
Photo of Chris Sobecki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Chris Sobecki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Columbus, OH 43219
Chris Sobecki is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been working in the behavioral and mental health field since 2019. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University and earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. He is passionate about providing comprehensive behavioral and mental health services to the pediatric, adolescent and young adult populations. He engages with patients and their families to assess and develop strategies to overcome barriers.
Chris Sobecki is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been working in the behavioral and mental health field since 2019. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University and earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. He is passionate about providing comprehensive behavioral and mental health services to the pediatric, adolescent and young adult populations. He engages with patients and their families to assess and develop strategies to overcome barriers.
(740) 715-3780 View (740) 715-3780
Photo of Max Haque - Ohio Psychiatric Services and TMS Center, Psychiatrist, MD
Combining a well-trained and highly experienced team of providers with a compassionate, patient-centered approach, Ohio Psychiatric Services has established itself as a well-respected and loved psychiatric clinic serving the Lancaster and Hilliard, Ohio, communities. The team, led by Max Haque, MD, and Pramoda Fatehchand, MS, PA-C, is dedicated to assisting each patient with a customized treatment plan that is evidence-based and proven to be effective at helping people see a reduction in their symptoms and improvement in their overall quality of life.
Combining a well-trained and highly experienced team of providers with a compassionate, patient-centered approach, Ohio Psychiatric Services has established itself as a well-respected and loved psychiatric clinic serving the Lancaster and Hilliard, Ohio, communities. The team, led by Max Haque, MD, and Pramoda Fatehchand, MS, PA-C, is dedicated to assisting each patient with a customized treatment plan that is evidence-based and proven to be effective at helping people see a reduction in their symptoms and improvement in their overall quality of life.
(380) 800-6083 View (380) 800-6083
Photo of Daron Watts, Psychiatrist
Daron Watts
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
Daron Watts is a seasoned medical professional with a diverse background in both military and civilian healthcare. He grew up in rural Ohio and graduated from high school before enlisting in the U.S. Army. After his service, he pursued higher education at Bowling Green State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Astronomy. Daron then attended Ohio State University College of Medicine, graduating in 1998.
Daron Watts is a seasoned medical professional with a diverse background in both military and civilian healthcare. He grew up in rural Ohio and graduated from high school before enlisting in the U.S. Army. After his service, he pursued higher education at Bowling Green State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Astronomy. Daron then attended Ohio State University College of Medicine, graduating in 1998.
(937) 719-8178 View (937) 719-8178
Photo of Christan Allison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Christan Allison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Westerville, OH 43082
My name is Christan, pronounced “Kristen,” and I am a dedicated, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the nursing field. Before stepping into my role as a nurse practitioner in 2019, I honed my skills in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, as well as in a college health center, where I provided compassionate care to diverse populations.
My name is Christan, pronounced “Kristen,” and I am a dedicated, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the nursing field. Before stepping into my role as a nurse practitioner in 2019, I honed my skills in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, as well as in a college health center, where I provided compassionate care to diverse populations.
(614) 896-9125 View (614) 896-9125
Photo of Jessica Meeks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Jessica Meeks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Upper Arlington, OH 43221
Jessica Meeks is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and has also been trained in Crisis Prevention Intervention. She received her master's degree from Northern Kentucky University and received her undergrad from Mount Carmel College of Nursing. With over 15 years of inpatient critical care experience, Jessica was interested in how mental health can facilitate overall wellness which led to her pursuit of providing outpatient mental health care.
Jessica Meeks is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and has also been trained in Crisis Prevention Intervention. She received her master's degree from Northern Kentucky University and received her undergrad from Mount Carmel College of Nursing. With over 15 years of inpatient critical care experience, Jessica was interested in how mental health can facilitate overall wellness which led to her pursuit of providing outpatient mental health care.
(614) 858-3866 View (614) 858-3866
Photo of Dr. Amy Li, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Amy Li
Psychiatrist, MD
Columbus, OH 43212
Dr. Li provides expert care for conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder—guiding patients through the challenges of mood dysregulation, attention difficulties, and emotional instability. Her work is grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She offers both individual therapy and medication management, including for those navigating substance use disorders. Passionate about supporting diverse populations, Dr. Li has a special focus on individuals with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and those within the LGBTQ+ community.
Dr. Li provides expert care for conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder—guiding patients through the challenges of mood dysregulation, attention difficulties, and emotional instability. Her work is grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She offers both individual therapy and medication management, including for those navigating substance use disorders. Passionate about supporting diverse populations, Dr. Li has a special focus on individuals with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and those within the LGBTQ+ community.
(614) 907-4560 View (614) 907-4560
Photo of Krista Mcdonald, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Krista Mcdonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43219
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health and have been practicing since 2007. I have experience treating patients ages 12 and up. I graduated from University of Tampa with a master’s degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master’s certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric mental health.
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health and have been practicing since 2007. I have experience treating patients ages 12 and up. I graduated from University of Tampa with a master’s degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master’s certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric mental health.
(440) 379-8612 View (440) 379-8612
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 Kelli Warrens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Kelli Warrens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Hilliard, OH 43026
Kelli Ann Warrens, an Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to helping patients in Ohio by providing personalized care and treatment plans for their mental health needs. Kelli collaborates closely with her patients, ensuring that their unique needs and goals are met with patience, kindness, and a nonjudgmental attitude. Specializing in PTSD and trauma, Kelli has a deep passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of these challenging experiences. She employs evidencebased therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support her patients in their journey towards healing and recovery.
Kelli Ann Warrens, an Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to helping patients in Ohio by providing personalized care and treatment plans for their mental health needs. Kelli collaborates closely with her patients, ensuring that their unique needs and goals are met with patience, kindness, and a nonjudgmental attitude. Specializing in PTSD and trauma, Kelli has a deep passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of these challenging experiences. She employs evidencebased therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support her patients in their journey towards healing and recovery.
(380) 220-8218 View (380) 220-8218
Photo of Lindsay Burris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Lindsay Burris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Hilliard, OH 43026
Lindsay’s clinical focus includes the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and substance use-related concerns through medication management. She has a particular passion for supporting individuals coping with postpartum depression and anxiety, recognizing the unique challenges of this stage of life and offering thoughtful, compassionate care to help ease those burdens. Her individualized approach allows her to carefully consider each person’s symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences to develop effective, sustainable treatment strategies.
Lindsay’s clinical focus includes the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and substance use-related concerns through medication management. She has a particular passion for supporting individuals coping with postpartum depression and anxiety, recognizing the unique challenges of this stage of life and offering thoughtful, compassionate care to help ease those burdens. Her individualized approach allows her to carefully consider each person’s symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences to develop effective, sustainable treatment strategies.
(614) 918-4517 View (614) 918-4517
Photo of Nicole Urbanski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Nicole Urbanski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43215
Hi, I’m Nicole, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe the best care comes from working together, so I take a team-based approach with my patients—helping them build resilience, find balance, and move toward recovery. I combine listening, therapy, and medication management in a way that considers your whole life, not just your symptoms. My focus areas include depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, mood disorders, and personality disorders, and I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where real progress can happen.
Hi, I’m Nicole, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe the best care comes from working together, so I take a team-based approach with my patients—helping them build resilience, find balance, and move toward recovery. I combine listening, therapy, and medication management in a way that considers your whole life, not just your symptoms. My focus areas include depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, mood disorders, and personality disorders, and I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where real progress can happen.
(614) 820-5642 View (614) 820-5642
Photo of Ian Marconi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, PMHNP-
Ian Marconi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, PMHNP-
Westerville, OH 43082
I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU. Prior to joining Lifestance I worked in community mental health and have experience with dual diagnosis and addiction treatment. I am able to assess, diagnose and treat a variety of mental health disorders and conditions using the most current evidenced based research. I am able to provide medication management as well as psychotherapy and CBT for a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU. Prior to joining Lifestance I worked in community mental health and have experience with dual diagnosis and addiction treatment. I am able to assess, diagnose and treat a variety of mental health disorders and conditions using the most current evidenced based research. I am able to provide medication management as well as psychotherapy and CBT for a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
(614) 762-9214 View (614) 762-9214

See more therapy options for 43040

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43040

< 10

Psychiatrists in 43040 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 43040 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43040?

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.