Psychiatrists in 43220

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 Stacey Molle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ACNS-BC, PMHNP, FNP
Stacey Molle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ACNS-BC, PMHNP, FNP
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Truly unique, comprehensive care. The only clinic like it in Ohio! Stacey Molle (pronounced Moe-lay) is a Nurse Practitioner that has 19 years of nursing experience and certification in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. She has worked with people from all walks of life and realizes that she particularly identifies with women, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent persons. Even while providing comprehensive care, she has found that something is missing in traditional medicine. By focusing on care that identifies the ROOT cause of clients’ symptoms, she has found that her clients have better outcomes.
Truly unique, comprehensive care. The only clinic like it in Ohio! Stacey Molle (pronounced Moe-lay) is a Nurse Practitioner that has 19 years of nursing experience and certification in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. She has worked with people from all walks of life and realizes that she particularly identifies with women, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent persons. Even while providing comprehensive care, she has found that something is missing in traditional medicine. By focusing on care that identifies the ROOT cause of clients’ symptoms, she has found that her clients have better outcomes.
(380) 201-9553 View (380) 201-9553
Photo of Summer Lawson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Summer Lawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43220
Hi, I am Summer, your new psychiatric mental health provider, therapist, counselor, and coach. Condragulations , you are here! Get ready to get PSYCHED, because you have navigated yourself to the right place. You want to re-ignite that passion. Passion with your family, friends, occupation, hobbies, health, and/or place your word(s) here You want to be the best you; you can be. Here is where you will take that step.
Hi, I am Summer, your new psychiatric mental health provider, therapist, counselor, and coach. Condragulations , you are here! Get ready to get PSYCHED, because you have navigated yourself to the right place. You want to re-ignite that passion. Passion with your family, friends, occupation, hobbies, health, and/or place your word(s) here You want to be the best you; you can be. Here is where you will take that step.
(380) 256-3481 View (380) 256-3481
Photo of Summer Lawson - Summer, Psyched, PsychedCbus.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN BS, MSW BA, LISWd, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC
Summer, Psyched, PsychedCbus.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN BS, MSW BA, LISWd, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Hi, I am Summer, your new psychiatric mental health provider, therapist, counselor, and coach. Congratulations, you are here! Get ready to get PSYCHED, because you have navigated yourself to the right place. You want to re-ignite that passion. Passion with your family, friends, occupation, hobbies, health, and/or place your word(s) here. You want to be the best you; you can be. Here is where you will take that step. Whether you are an executive professional, a medical practitioner, SAHM, career academic, and … you…, a person who has realized life is not what it can be anymore, let’s work together and get that drive back.
Hi, I am Summer, your new psychiatric mental health provider, therapist, counselor, and coach. Congratulations, you are here! Get ready to get PSYCHED, because you have navigated yourself to the right place. You want to re-ignite that passion. Passion with your family, friends, occupation, hobbies, health, and/or place your word(s) here. You want to be the best you; you can be. Here is where you will take that step. Whether you are an executive professional, a medical practitioner, SAHM, career academic, and … you…, a person who has realized life is not what it can be anymore, let’s work together and get that drive back.
(513) 848-6371 View (513) 848-6371
Photo of Jill Pate, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Jill Pate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Meet Jill Pate, NP— who specializes in mental wellness and whole-body health. With dual certification in Family Medicine and Psychiatry, Jill blends expert medication management with a warm, personalized approach. She’s known for building strong patient connections and creating evidence-based plans that support confidence, balance, and overall well-being. She has a history of working in Emergency Medicine, Urology, and Psychiatry.
Meet Jill Pate, NP— who specializes in mental wellness and whole-body health. With dual certification in Family Medicine and Psychiatry, Jill blends expert medication management with a warm, personalized approach. She’s known for building strong patient connections and creating evidence-based plans that support confidence, balance, and overall well-being. She has a history of working in Emergency Medicine, Urology, and Psychiatry.
(614) 756-6027 View (614) 756-6027
Photo of Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist
Columbus, OH 43220
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(614) 683-4942 View (614) 683-4942
Photo of Laurie Saurborn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MS
Laurie Saurborn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MS
Columbus, OH 43220
The world doesn't stop spinning during times of change or crisis. If you are in search of a provider who excels at creating collaborative treatment plans to help you reach your immediate and long term goals, I can help.
The world doesn't stop spinning during times of change or crisis. If you are in search of a provider who excels at creating collaborative treatment plans to help you reach your immediate and long term goals, I can help.
(740) 202-4585 View (740) 202-4585
Photo of Ashley Collins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Ashley Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
I provide holistic care for children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My approach goes beyond just medication and focuses on proper nutrition, lifestyle changes, and instilling good coping skills in children, to equip them with the tools to face life’s challenges with resilience and strength. I have extensive experience treating children struggling with trauma and co-occurring conditions, and I also specialize in supporting military families navigating the unique stresses, uncertainties, and challenges that come with military life and deployment.
I provide holistic care for children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My approach goes beyond just medication and focuses on proper nutrition, lifestyle changes, and instilling good coping skills in children, to equip them with the tools to face life’s challenges with resilience and strength. I have extensive experience treating children struggling with trauma and co-occurring conditions, and I also specialize in supporting military families navigating the unique stresses, uncertainties, and challenges that come with military life and deployment.
(614) 714-5981 View (614) 714-5981
Photo of Jen Foren, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Jen Foren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in medication management for children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working in various mental health settings. I focus on improving a patient’s quality of life by looking at the whole picture and using a holistic approach.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in medication management for children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working in various mental health settings. I focus on improving a patient’s quality of life by looking at the whole picture and using a holistic approach.
(330) 325-4701 View (330) 325-4701
Photo of Ivana Balic - Keystone Mental Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Keystone Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Columbus, OH 43220
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
(614) 820-5241 View (614) 820-5241
Photo of Tiffany Seneff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tiffany Seneff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Tiffany Seneff is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tiffany holds a Master of Science from Northern Kentucky University and Bachelor of Science from The University of Akron. She has over 15 years of Critical Care and Neuro-Interventional experience. Tiffany has a passion for mental health awareness and improving healthcare access to those in need.
Tiffany Seneff is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tiffany holds a Master of Science from Northern Kentucky University and Bachelor of Science from The University of Akron. She has over 15 years of Critical Care and Neuro-Interventional experience. Tiffany has a passion for mental health awareness and improving healthcare access to those in need.
(614) 877-6344 View (614) 877-6344
Photo of Dr. Joseph Fondriest - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(380) 777-8272 View (380) 777-8272
Photo of Max Haque - Ohio Psychiatric Services and TMS Center, Psychiatrist, MD
Ohio Psychiatric Services and TMS Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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 Dr. Joseph Fondriest, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Joseph Fondriest
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Joseph Fondriest completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / Summa Health where he served as chief resident and psychiatry representative for resident staff council. He received his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University, and his bachelor’s degree and computer science minor from Miami University. He specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. He places a heavy emphasis on listening closely to patients. He utilizes a team-based approach to mental healthcare, working alongside patients and their therapists. He treats adults of age 18-64.
Dr. Joseph Fondriest completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / Summa Health where he served as chief resident and psychiatry representative for resident staff council. He received his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University, and his bachelor’s degree and computer science minor from Miami University. He specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. He places a heavy emphasis on listening closely to patients. He utilizes a team-based approach to mental healthcare, working alongside patients and their therapists. He treats adults of age 18-64.
(380) 600-9366 View (380) 600-9366
Photo of Sarah Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Sarah Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
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 Amy Klinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC
Amy Klinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Amy and I am so glad you found my profile. I would love to partner with you on your journey to improved health and wellness. You will find that I am non-judgmental, compassionate, and very caring. We will work together to come up with the plan that best fits your needs and goals. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in the treatment of a variety of mental health conditions.
Hello! My name is Amy and I am so glad you found my profile. I would love to partner with you on your journey to improved health and wellness. You will find that I am non-judgmental, compassionate, and very caring. We will work together to come up with the plan that best fits your needs and goals. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in the treatment of a variety of mental health conditions.
(740) 273-8106 View (740) 273-8106
Photo of Matthew Eifrid, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Matthew Eifrid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Matt Eifrid and I am a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am now scheduling appointments for patients in Ohio and Colorado. My training and experience in both primary care and psychiatric/mental health give me a broad scope of knowledge to provide my patients with evidence-based, holistic, and patient-centered care. I focus my care on adults aged 18 - 65 years.
Hello, my name is Matt Eifrid and I am a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am now scheduling appointments for patients in Ohio and Colorado. My training and experience in both primary care and psychiatric/mental health give me a broad scope of knowledge to provide my patients with evidence-based, holistic, and patient-centered care. I focus my care on adults aged 18 - 65 years.
View
Photo of Jessica Meeks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Jessica Meeks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
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. Leonard Marinis, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Leonard Marinis
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I grew up on the west side of Cleveland and initially worked as a engineer before returning to school to pursue my interest in medicine. I obtained my medical degree from CWRU's School of Medicine and completed a 4-year psychiatry residency at the University of California, Davis before returning home to Cleveland.
I grew up on the west side of Cleveland and initially worked as a engineer before returning to school to pursue my interest in medicine. I obtained my medical degree from CWRU's School of Medicine and completed a 4-year psychiatry residency at the University of California, Davis before returning home to Cleveland.
(216) 279-3700 View (216) 279-3700
Photo of Fariba Mazdeh - turning point psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
turning point psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
A mental health provider/counselor helps patients overcome psychological challenges, often by helping them to develop the insight about their illness, guiding and supporting them in learning to change their negative behaviors and thought patterns, and providing them with the best pharmacological approach in order to treat their mental illness. It’s a deeply rewarding line of work that I find, highly fulfilling,فارسی زبان ها را حتما دعوت می کنم که تماس بگیرند برای روان درمانی در زمینه مشاورت ویا دارو درمانی. من ایرانی هستم وخیلی مایل به درمان هم کشوری هایم هستم
A mental health provider/counselor helps patients overcome psychological challenges, often by helping them to develop the insight about their illness, guiding and supporting them in learning to change their negative behaviors and thought patterns, and providing them with the best pharmacological approach in order to treat their mental illness. It’s a deeply rewarding line of work that I find, highly fulfilling,فارسی زبان ها را حتما دعوت می کنم که تماس بگیرند برای روان درمانی در زمینه مشاورت ویا دارو درمانی. من ایرانی هستم وخیلی مایل به درمان هم کشوری هایم هستم
(346) 239-8416 View (346) 239-8416

See more therapy options for 43220

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43220

20+

Average cost per session

$160

Psychiatrists in 43220 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
78% Trauma and PTSD
70% ADHD
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
71% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 43220 see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43220?

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.