Psychiatrists in 43230

Dr. Craig Carpenter
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Gahanna, OH 43230
As a psychiatrist, I believe effective care starts with truly listening. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns, offering a thoughtful, individualized approach to treatment. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or not like yourself, my goal is to help you regain a sense of balance and clarity. My approach is collaborative and grounded in evidence-based care. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management, while also considering the broader context of your life—your experiences, stressors, and goals. Treatment is never one-size-fits-all.
As a psychiatrist, I believe effective care starts with truly listening. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns, offering a thoughtful, individualized approach to treatment. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or not like yourself, my goal is to help you regain a sense of balance and clarity. My approach is collaborative and grounded in evidence-based care. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management, while also considering the broader context of your life—your experiences, stressors, and goals. Treatment is never one-size-fits-all.
(614) 835-6068 View (614) 835-6068
Porsha Lockett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Gahanna, OH 43230
My passion for mental health care is deeply personal. After losing my cousin to mental illness at the age of 36, I committed myself to ensuring that no one faces their mental health struggles alone. My mission is to provide accessible, compassionate, and high-quality psychiatric care to all who seek healing, support, and hope. I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where every client feels seen, heard, and cared for.
My passion for mental health care is deeply personal. After losing my cousin to mental illness at the age of 36, I committed myself to ensuring that no one faces their mental health struggles alone. My mission is to provide accessible, compassionate, and high-quality psychiatric care to all who seek healing, support, and hope. I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where every client feels seen, heard, and cared for.
(614) 656-7025 View (614) 656-7025
Sarah Boyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Gahanna, OH 43230
My goal is to help you thrive, not merely survive. In addition to medication management, I utilize a holistic approach that incorporates lifestyle changes, movement and nutrition. Growth is facilitated by a person-centered, and trauma-informed approach that promotes a compassionate, non-judgemental environment. There is no "one size fits all" treatment plan. We will work in collaboration to create a treatment plan and goals that are within reach for you.
My goal is to help you thrive, not merely survive. In addition to medication management, I utilize a holistic approach that incorporates lifestyle changes, movement and nutrition. Growth is facilitated by a person-centered, and trauma-informed approach that promotes a compassionate, non-judgemental environment. There is no "one size fits all" treatment plan. We will work in collaboration to create a treatment plan and goals that are within reach for you.
(614) 603-0925 View (614) 603-0925
Alenna Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Gahanna, OH 43230
Welcome, my name is Alenna Jones, I am the CEO of Mental Health Soldier, LLC. I provide medication management services. I have extensive experience treating patients across the lifespan with acute and chronic illnesses and can assess their response to actual or potential alterations/crises in their health and mental state. Mental Health Soldier, LLC offers in-person and tele-mental health services that advocates for Equality.
Welcome, my name is Alenna Jones, I am the CEO of Mental Health Soldier, LLC. I provide medication management services. I have extensive experience treating patients across the lifespan with acute and chronic illnesses and can assess their response to actual or potential alterations/crises in their health and mental state. Mental Health Soldier, LLC offers in-person and tele-mental health services that advocates for Equality.
(740) 561-0707 View (740) 561-0707
Amy Hanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Gahanna, OH 43230
Dr. Amy Hanson, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, provides telehealth services to create a safe space for clients to foster growth and make positive life changes from the comfort of their homes. She is board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner, offering diagnostic evaluations and medical management for mental health conditions while collaborating with individual therapists for comprehensive care.
Dr. Amy Hanson, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, provides telehealth services to create a safe space for clients to foster growth and make positive life changes from the comfort of their homes. She is board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner, offering diagnostic evaluations and medical management for mental health conditions while collaborating with individual therapists for comprehensive care.
(614) 656-7025 View (614) 656-7025
Spectrum Mental Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
We are now accepting clients in Columbus! What does S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. stand for? Safety. Pride. Education. Compassion. Truth. Respect. Unity. Mindfulness. Spectrum specializes in providing mental health and wellness services in an open, non-judgemental, AND affordable delivery model. We think outside of the box and tailor care to the individual. We pride ourselves on our affirming, holistic approach.
We are now accepting clients in Columbus! What does S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. stand for? Safety. Pride. Education. Compassion. Truth. Respect. Unity. Mindfulness. Spectrum specializes in providing mental health and wellness services in an open, non-judgemental, AND affordable delivery model. We think outside of the box and tailor care to the individual. We pride ourselves on our affirming, holistic approach.
(380) 212-2520 View (380) 212-2520
Shumeka Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, LCDCII, DNP
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
Dr. Julia Hill-Byrd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, RYT-200
3 Endorsed
Gahanna, OH 43230
My ideal clients are children, teens, and adults seeking a more holistic and personalized approach to their mental health. I often work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, or chronic stress—especially those who are interested in understanding the connection between their mind and body. Many of my clients come to care feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or disconnected from themselves. They may have tried different approaches in the past and are looking for something that feels more comprehensive, supportive, and sustainable.
My ideal clients are children, teens, and adults seeking a more holistic and personalized approach to their mental health. I often work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, or chronic stress—especially those who are interested in understanding the connection between their mind and body. Many of my clients come to care feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or disconnected from themselves. They may have tried different approaches in the past and are looking for something that feels more comprehensive, supportive, and sustainable.
(740) 730-0898 View (740) 730-0898
Tylon Staggs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
If you're looking for a quick prescription and a rushed appointment, I'm probably not the right fit. I work with adults who want a thoughtful, collaborative approach to psychiatric care. My goal is to understand what's really going on, answer your questions honestly, and help you find a treatment plan that makes sense for your life. You should leave each appointment feeling heard, informed, and confident about the path forward.
If you're looking for a quick prescription and a rushed appointment, I'm probably not the right fit. I work with adults who want a thoughtful, collaborative approach to psychiatric care. My goal is to understand what's really going on, answer your questions honestly, and help you find a treatment plan that makes sense for your life. You should leave each appointment feeling heard, informed, and confident about the path forward.
(740) 936-9802 View (740) 936-9802
Dr. Megan Verlage
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Dr. Megan Verlage and I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry. While I treat a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan in both women and men, my area of interest is in Women’s Mental Health. I have specialized training in helping with psychiatric needs related to pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, pre-menstrual syndromes, and peri-menopause. I created my practice so that I could give the type of individualized and specialized care I feel these delicate situations deserve. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.
Hello! My name is Dr. Megan Verlage and I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry. While I treat a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan in both women and men, my area of interest is in Women’s Mental Health. I have specialized training in helping with psychiatric needs related to pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, pre-menstrual syndromes, and peri-menopause. I created my practice so that I could give the type of individualized and specialized care I feel these delicate situations deserve. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.
(380) 333-5269 View (380) 333-5269
Rochelle Tatarka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Click "My website" then "Book Online" to schedule. My focus is to help individuals heal, recover, and become aware of their inner strengths. I provide a supportive environment, listen to your concerns, customize a treatment plan, and monitor progress for positive outcomes. I offer medications and supplemental brief supportive therapy. Accepting new patients ages 18 - 64, with anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, grief, and trauma. Immediate openings are available with flexible scheduling for online or in person appointments. For complex care needs, engagement with an external therapist for individual therapy is recommended.
Click "My website" then "Book Online" to schedule. My focus is to help individuals heal, recover, and become aware of their inner strengths. I provide a supportive environment, listen to your concerns, customize a treatment plan, and monitor progress for positive outcomes. I offer medications and supplemental brief supportive therapy. Accepting new patients ages 18 - 64, with anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, grief, and trauma. Immediate openings are available with flexible scheduling for online or in person appointments. For complex care needs, engagement with an external therapist for individual therapy is recommended.
(330) 862-9875 View (330) 862-9875
Dr. Andrea Lynette Swails
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN, DNP
Serves Area
Greetings, my name is Dr. Andrea L. Swails. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 13 years of experience in medical-surgical nursing on the floor, lecturing in the classroom at various colleges, working in clinicals with students in hospital settings, and living a life full of joy in helping patients with mental illness.
Greetings, my name is Dr. Andrea L. Swails. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 13 years of experience in medical-surgical nursing on the floor, lecturing in the classroom at various colleges, working in clinicals with students in hospital settings, and living a life full of joy in helping patients with mental illness.
(216) 480-4191 View (216) 480-4191
Balance and Bloom Women's Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or not like yourself? Maybe your mind won’t slow down, you feel overstimulated, or you’re exhausted from trying to hold it all together. Whether you’re navigating pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, menopause, or another life transition—you’re not alone. At Balance & Bloom Women’s Wellness, we help women across Ohio feel like themselves again. We specialize in depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, PMDD, ADHD, OCD, and hormone-related mood changes with compassionate, personalized care and medication management when needed.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or not like yourself? Maybe your mind won’t slow down, you feel overstimulated, or you’re exhausted from trying to hold it all together. Whether you’re navigating pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, menopause, or another life transition—you’re not alone. At Balance & Bloom Women’s Wellness, we help women across Ohio feel like themselves again. We specialize in depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, PMDD, ADHD, OCD, and hormone-related mood changes with compassionate, personalized care and medication management when needed.
(380) 257-5910 View (380) 257-5910
Nina Roslovic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Serves Area
Do you feel like you've got one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake? Know where you want to go, but can't seem to get there? As a board-certified nurse practitioner, I provide therapy and medication for challenges including anxiety, low energy, depression, trouble sleeping, and grief. Office hours include evenings and weekends, and I offer a free 20-minute session if you'd like to see if we're a good fit. Check out my website: www.cooperativechange.com for more information.
Do you feel like you've got one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake? Know where you want to go, but can't seem to get there? As a board-certified nurse practitioner, I provide therapy and medication for challenges including anxiety, low energy, depression, trouble sleeping, and grief. Office hours include evenings and weekends, and I offer a free 20-minute session if you'd like to see if we're a good fit. Check out my website: www.cooperativechange.com for more information.
(614) 654-4954 View (614) 654-4954
Sharion Brown Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Providing compassionate, comprehensive care to improve your mental and emotional well-being for those who may struggle with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, or bipolar disorder, offering both expertise and understanding. Also, stress management support to cope with work, relationships, and life transitions in a healthy way. With a holistic approach that integrates physical, emotional, and mental wellness. Personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs, a compassionate provider who listens and genuinely cares, and a convenient access to care.
Providing compassionate, comprehensive care to improve your mental and emotional well-being for those who may struggle with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, or bipolar disorder, offering both expertise and understanding. Also, stress management support to cope with work, relationships, and life transitions in a healthy way. With a holistic approach that integrates physical, emotional, and mental wellness. Personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs, a compassionate provider who listens and genuinely cares, and a convenient access to care.
(380) 220-8979 View (380) 220-8979
Ify Agudosi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio with a master's degree from the University of Minnesota and four years of clinical experience. I provide care for children ages 5 and older, teens, young adults, and older adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and insomnia. My approach is straightforward and supportive: I listen carefully, take your concerns seriously, and create a treatment plan that is realistic, evidenced-based, and tailored to your life.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio with a master's degree from the University of Minnesota and four years of clinical experience. I provide care for children ages 5 and older, teens, young adults, and older adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and insomnia. My approach is straightforward and supportive: I listen carefully, take your concerns seriously, and create a treatment plan that is realistic, evidenced-based, and tailored to your life.
(740) 518-2710 View (740) 518-2710
Christopher Sobecki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
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
Olivia Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
The people I work with typically feel deeply and carry more than they show—thoughtful, sensitive, often exhausted from being “the strong one.” Maybe they're thought of as high-achievers, but they're much more than that. Frequently labelled "gifted" as children, they may struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood shifts, yet feel unseen in rushed, impersonal care. They’re looking for a higher standard: intentional, steady, deeply human support. Someone who listens carefully, understands nuance, and offers guidance that feels both calming and clear. They want care that meets them with presence, not pressure.
The people I work with typically feel deeply and carry more than they show—thoughtful, sensitive, often exhausted from being “the strong one.” Maybe they're thought of as high-achievers, but they're much more than that. Frequently labelled "gifted" as children, they may struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood shifts, yet feel unseen in rushed, impersonal care. They’re looking for a higher standard: intentional, steady, deeply human support. Someone who listens carefully, understands nuance, and offers guidance that feels both calming and clear. They want care that meets them with presence, not pressure.
(614) 768-7476 View (614) 768-7476
Shane Gahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Shane W. Gahn, DNP, APRN-CNP, PMHNP-BC (he/him), is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing virtual care across Ohio. With a focus on Medication Management, LGBTQ+, and gender-affirming mental health services, Shane offers inclusive, evidence-based, and collaborative care. He values patient autonomy, fosters resilience, and supports comprehensive wellness through a team-based, patient-led approach. Shane also serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor, bringing current expertise and deep commitment to ethical, affirming practice. Visit Collaborative Psychiatry's website for appointment scheduling.
Shane W. Gahn, DNP, APRN-CNP, PMHNP-BC (he/him), is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing virtual care across Ohio. With a focus on Medication Management, LGBTQ+, and gender-affirming mental health services, Shane offers inclusive, evidence-based, and collaborative care. He values patient autonomy, fosters resilience, and supports comprehensive wellness through a team-based, patient-led approach. Shane also serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor, bringing current expertise and deep commitment to ethical, affirming practice. Visit Collaborative Psychiatry's website for appointment scheduling.
(740) 273-6434 View (740) 273-6434
Holly Pierce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Holly Pierce PMHNP-BC. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes a holistic, client-centered model that integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a compassionate, empathetic approach. I focus on supporting individuals in their mental health journey, by tailoring medication interventions to each person’s unique needs, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.
Holly Pierce PMHNP-BC. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes a holistic, client-centered model that integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a compassionate, empathetic approach. I focus on supporting individuals in their mental health journey, by tailoring medication interventions to each person’s unique needs, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.
(740) 659-8192 View (740) 659-8192

See more therapy options for 43230

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43230

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 43230 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
97% Depression
90% Bipolar Disorder
83% Trauma and PTSD
76% Medication Management
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
59% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
96% Aetna
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 43230 see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43230?

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.