Psychiatrists in 43215

Photo of Magdalene Edo - Calvary Family and Mental health Services, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Calvary Family and Mental health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
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 Tessa Ryan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tessa Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric medication management. I have experience treating a wide range of mental health issues in both adult women and men. I aim to partner with my clients and take a trauma informed, comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate approach to care. This includes working in collaboration with my clients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that my care is safe, effective, evidenced based, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric medication management. I have experience treating a wide range of mental health issues in both adult women and men. I aim to partner with my clients and take a trauma informed, comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate approach to care. This includes working in collaboration with my clients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that my care is safe, effective, evidenced based, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
(614) 665-8045 View (614) 665-8045
Photo of Holly A Schweitzer - ONE Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
ONE Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
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
Photo of Dr. Cole Upton - Upton Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Cole Upton - Upton Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
A new approach to mental health that puts your wellness first. Dr. Upton has built his practice, Upton Wellness, in way that brings distinct and specific individualized care for each client. Holistic wellness refers to an approach to health that considers the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - rather than just a specific ailment or symptom. It involves addressing underlying causes of health issues and incorporating various therapies and practices, to achieve balance and harmony. Holistic wellness emphasizes the importance of prevention and self-care, empowering individuals to take an active role in their own health.
A new approach to mental health that puts your wellness first. Dr. Upton has built his practice, Upton Wellness, in way that brings distinct and specific individualized care for each client. Holistic wellness refers to an approach to health that considers the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - rather than just a specific ailment or symptom. It involves addressing underlying causes of health issues and incorporating various therapies and practices, to achieve balance and harmony. Holistic wellness emphasizes the importance of prevention and self-care, empowering individuals to take an active role in their own health.
(614) 968-8532 View (614) 968-8532
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(614) 502-3491 View (614) 502-3491
Photo of Soumi Dey, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Soumi Dey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
I am a board certified, licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat clients ages 12-65. I have several years of experience in diagnosing and treating a variation of psychiatric and substance use disorders in adolescents and adults. I have a background in inpatient as well as outpatient psychiatry. I focus on trauma informed care for my patients and provide pharmacological interventions in conjunction with nonpharmacological treatment modalities to best treat symptoms of mental illness and addiction.
I am a board certified, licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained to treat clients ages 12-65. I have several years of experience in diagnosing and treating a variation of psychiatric and substance use disorders in adolescents and adults. I have a background in inpatient as well as outpatient psychiatry. I focus on trauma informed care for my patients and provide pharmacological interventions in conjunction with nonpharmacological treatment modalities to best treat symptoms of mental illness and addiction.
(380) 207-9175 View (380) 207-9175
Photo of Steven Reedy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steven Reedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Steven Reedy. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring ideals from both the medical and nursing models of care in a holistic approach. In doing so, this allows me to care for you with compassion, as a whole person, and with the latest evidence-based practices. I use the latest evidence-based practice in my approach, along with modalities that include cognitive behavioral therapy, therapeutic communication, and motivational interviewing. I practice active listening and solution-based interventions.
My name is Steven Reedy. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring ideals from both the medical and nursing models of care in a holistic approach. In doing so, this allows me to care for you with compassion, as a whole person, and with the latest evidence-based practices. I use the latest evidence-based practice in my approach, along with modalities that include cognitive behavioral therapy, therapeutic communication, and motivational interviewing. I practice active listening and solution-based interventions.
(380) 205-9609 View (380) 205-9609
Photo of Sarah Craycraft, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Craycraft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a variety of mental health conditions. My previous experience includes working with adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I work collaboratively with individuals to create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your unique needs through medication management and therapeutic interventions.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a variety of mental health conditions. My previous experience includes working with adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I work collaboratively with individuals to create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your unique needs through medication management and therapeutic interventions.
(380) 600-8783 View (380) 600-8783
Photo of Sam Stahl, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sam Stahl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I take a comprehensive approach in the treatment of your mental health which includes a combination of medication management and psychotherapy. Utilizing current evidence based research within the context of your unique story allows us to tailor individualized treatment plans in a collaborative partnership. Together we will work to reduce symptoms, increase coping/resilience, foster insight and facilitate growth.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I take a comprehensive approach in the treatment of your mental health which includes a combination of medication management and psychotherapy. Utilizing current evidence based research within the context of your unique story allows us to tailor individualized treatment plans in a collaborative partnership. Together we will work to reduce symptoms, increase coping/resilience, foster insight and facilitate growth.
(740) 486-9082 View (740) 486-9082
Photo of Neema Mrisho, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Neema Mrisho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families.
(505) 370-7726 View (505) 370-7726
Photo of Elizabeth Passino, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Passino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215
I believe in building therapeutic relationships with my patients, utilizing evidence-based approaches, and partnering with patients to find the best interventions for their individual needs. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other psychotic disorders. I am currently accepting new patients, both adults and adolescents ages 16 and older.
I believe in building therapeutic relationships with my patients, utilizing evidence-based approaches, and partnering with patients to find the best interventions for their individual needs. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other psychotic disorders. I am currently accepting new patients, both adults and adolescents ages 16 and older.
(380) 205-3786 View (380) 205-3786
Photo of Untangled Psychiatry -Mistique Chantay Henry, CNP, PMHNP, CEO, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Untangled Psychiatry -Mistique Chantay Henry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, CEO
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215
I am committed to be there for you every step of your journey. I have strived to create a practice that represents what I believe in: integrated mental health care that focuses on the whole person, with longer appointment times, access to speak directly to your provider when needed, evening and weekend appointment availability, while providing evidence-based psychiatric care.
I am committed to be there for you every step of your journey. I have strived to create a practice that represents what I believe in: integrated mental health care that focuses on the whole person, with longer appointment times, access to speak directly to your provider when needed, evening and weekend appointment availability, while providing evidence-based psychiatric care.
(614) 532-4293 View (614) 532-4293
Photo of Mark Erik Blair - Optimum TMS, MD, Psychiatrist
Optimum TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
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 Justin Kerr, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Justin Kerr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215
I am a licensed PMNHNP trained to diagnose and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders in adults aged 18-65. I am skilled in assessing and providing treatment recommendations for people aged 18-65 who may have concerns of mood, anxiety, trauma-related disorders. Clients who are interested in seeing me may have a goal of exploring psychiatric medications for symptom management, want to explore the use of ketamine as therapeutic option, and/or receive brief psychotherapy. I legally cannot prescribe stimulants for ADHD, but can be consulted for treatment. www.luminathera.com is the website for ketamine-assisted group treatment.
I am a licensed PMNHNP trained to diagnose and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders in adults aged 18-65. I am skilled in assessing and providing treatment recommendations for people aged 18-65 who may have concerns of mood, anxiety, trauma-related disorders. Clients who are interested in seeing me may have a goal of exploring psychiatric medications for symptom management, want to explore the use of ketamine as therapeutic option, and/or receive brief psychotherapy. I legally cannot prescribe stimulants for ADHD, but can be consulted for treatment. www.luminathera.com is the website for ketamine-assisted group treatment.
(380) 201-9015 View (380) 201-9015
Photo of Sarah Swiger, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Swiger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Stronger Minds Mental Health and Wellness, LLC. My name is Sarah and I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
Welcome to Stronger Minds Mental Health and Wellness, LLC. My name is Sarah and I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
(513) 647-0531 View (513) 647-0531
Photo of Deana Batross, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deana Batross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Deana Batross. I have worked in health care in various capacities over the last 35 years, and advanced practice since 2004. This including cardiology, primary care, and mental health. I am also a professor of nursing at a local university teaching mental health at the graduate and undergraduate levels.
Hello, my name is Deana Batross. I have worked in health care in various capacities over the last 35 years, and advanced practice since 2004. This including cardiology, primary care, and mental health. I am also a professor of nursing at a local university teaching mental health at the graduate and undergraduate levels.
(740) 639-5265 View (740) 639-5265
Photo of Ernestine A Tasong - CFF Medical & Behavioral Health, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
CFF Medical & Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am Dr. Ernestine Tasong, a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner. Have you reviewed my profile? I'd love to schedule our first session to learn more about the support you need! You can also call or text me at 614-421-7969. Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and a family nurse practitioner (FNP) provider in the state of Ohio, WA and MA. She specialized in depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, PTSD, social anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia and much more.
Hello, I am Dr. Ernestine Tasong, a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner. Have you reviewed my profile? I'd love to schedule our first session to learn more about the support you need! You can also call or text me at 614-421-7969. Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and a family nurse practitioner (FNP) provider in the state of Ohio, WA and MA. She specialized in depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, PTSD, social anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia and much more.
(614) 963-9533 View (614) 963-9533
Photo of Mary G. Hall, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary G. Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I care about my patients and listen to his or her needs to come up with the best individualized treatment plan. I diagnose and treat all mental health conditions with appropriate medications as needed. I do this in a holistic manner, meaning I treat the patient as a whole rather than a sum of his or her parts. I will run appropriate bloodwork as well as treat mental health conditions in the context of any chronic illness the patient may be suffering. I am here to help.
I care about my patients and listen to his or her needs to come up with the best individualized treatment plan. I diagnose and treat all mental health conditions with appropriate medications as needed. I do this in a holistic manner, meaning I treat the patient as a whole rather than a sum of his or her parts. I will run appropriate bloodwork as well as treat mental health conditions in the context of any chronic illness the patient may be suffering. I am here to help.
(234) 235-3864 View (234) 235-3864
Photo of Nick Baston, DNP, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nick Baston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Baston earned Doctoral of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah after completing a Masters degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from the Ohio State University. After Dr. Baston completed his Masters degree, he moved to a community mental health center in Columbus, Ohio where he treated a severe and persistently mental ill population consisting of schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Dr. Baston earned Doctoral of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah after completing a Masters degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from the Ohio State University. After Dr. Baston completed his Masters degree, he moved to a community mental health center in Columbus, Ohio where he treated a severe and persistently mental ill population consisting of schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
(614) 945-4058 View (614) 945-4058
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43215

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 43215 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
93% Depression
91% Bipolar Disorder
88% Trauma and PTSD
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Medication Management
58% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 43215 see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

65% Female
35% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43215?

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.