Psychiatrists in 43551

Photo of Gerald Makobong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Perrysburg, OH 43551
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) 858-8700 View (614) 858-8700
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Perrysburg, OH 43551
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(614) 802-6152 View (614) 802-6152
Photo of Jae Kennedy-Cookson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Jae Kennedy-Cookson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Please Note: I do not prescribe any controlled medications, which includes medications like Adderall and Valium. I am strongly committed to promoting the well-being, dignity, and autonomy of those receiving psychiatric care, while also emphasizing compassion, empathy, and respect for their individual needs and preferences. Central to my philosophy of care is the recognition of the unique value and worth of each person, as well as a dedication to fostering trusting and collaborative relationships that empower individuals to achieve their highest level of health and wellness.
Please Note: I do not prescribe any controlled medications, which includes medications like Adderall and Valium. I am strongly committed to promoting the well-being, dignity, and autonomy of those receiving psychiatric care, while also emphasizing compassion, empathy, and respect for their individual needs and preferences. Central to my philosophy of care is the recognition of the unique value and worth of each person, as well as a dedication to fostering trusting and collaborative relationships that empower individuals to achieve their highest level of health and wellness.
(419) 928-5150 View (419) 928-5150
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Perrysburg, OH 43551
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(614) 482-3576 View (614) 482-3576
Photo of Sarah Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Sarah Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Perrysburg, OH 43551
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 Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Perrysburg, OH 43551
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(614) 412-2036 View (614) 412-2036
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Perrysburg, OH 43551
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(614) 482-1972 View (614) 482-1972
Photo of Kayla Jordan Peters, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kayla Jordan Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I began my career as a nurse in Pediatrics and Pediatric Oncology before making the switch over to mental health. I love working with all ages, with a particular interest in children and adolescents, ages 7+ with mood disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and OCD. I believe in using a therapeutic approach to develop individualized plans of care with each patient based on their specific goals. This includes medication management and collaboration with the treatment team.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I began my career as a nurse in Pediatrics and Pediatric Oncology before making the switch over to mental health. I love working with all ages, with a particular interest in children and adolescents, ages 7+ with mood disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and OCD. I believe in using a therapeutic approach to develop individualized plans of care with each patient based on their specific goals. This includes medication management and collaboration with the treatment team.
(419) 780-6355 View (419) 780-6355

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Olivetta Uradu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Olivetta Uradu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
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Photo of Arrey Eyongherok, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arrey Eyongherok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Arrey Eyongherok is a Doctoral prepared nurse practitioner (DNP) who graduated with Honors and has over 8 years of diverse experience with areas of expertise in Family/Primary Care, Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, & Mental Health Disorders/ Dual Diagnoses/Psychotherapies. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees both children and adults (ages 0 to 100 years old) as well as pregnant women
Arrey Eyongherok is a Doctoral prepared nurse practitioner (DNP) who graduated with Honors and has over 8 years of diverse experience with areas of expertise in Family/Primary Care, Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, & Mental Health Disorders/ Dual Diagnoses/Psychotherapies. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees both children and adults (ages 0 to 100 years old) as well as pregnant women
(740) 204-7116 View (740) 204-7116
Photo of Aleksandr J Zverinskiy - Brave Health, Psychiatrist, MD, MSW, LCSW, PhD, FNP-C
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, MSW, LCSW, PhD, FNP-C
Online Only
We are a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
We are a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
(440) 496-7185 View (440) 496-7185
Photo of Tiffiny Wicks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffiny Wicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toledo, OH 43623
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to offering holistic, client-centered care to individuals aged 6 and up. I believe in putting my clients at the center of their treatment, collaborating closely with them to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Each plan is thoughtfully tailored to address the unique needs of the individual. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together to improve their mental health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to offering holistic, client-centered care to individuals aged 6 and up. I believe in putting my clients at the center of their treatment, collaborating closely with them to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Each plan is thoughtfully tailored to address the unique needs of the individual. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together to improve their mental health.
(419) 658-7853 View (419) 658-7853
Photo of Jennifer Cochran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Cochran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Oregon, OH 43616
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in both Ohio and Florida. I am dedicated to making a difference in my patients lives! I evaluate and screen for various mental health conditions and determine if medication is the right route for treatment, then adjust those medications in a safe manner. My passion is helping patients achieve balance in their daily life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. I want to help you achieve stability and help you grow! I provide a safe space, am LGBTQA+ friendly, and provide care in a non-judgmental manner. Your goals are my goals!
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in both Ohio and Florida. I am dedicated to making a difference in my patients lives! I evaluate and screen for various mental health conditions and determine if medication is the right route for treatment, then adjust those medications in a safe manner. My passion is helping patients achieve balance in their daily life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. I want to help you achieve stability and help you grow! I provide a safe space, am LGBTQA+ friendly, and provide care in a non-judgmental manner. Your goals are my goals!
(727) 610-8533 View (727) 610-8533
Photo of Danny E. Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny E. Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
(567) 229-3039 View (567) 229-3039
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Toledo, OH 43615
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Kevin Atwell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kevin Atwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m Kevin Atwell, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia. Before becoming a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, I had a variety of roles, including youth counselor for adolescents with autism, advocate for homeless women, and direct support professional for men with developmental disabilities.
I’m Kevin Atwell, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia. Before becoming a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, I had a variety of roles, including youth counselor for adolescents with autism, advocate for homeless women, and direct support professional for men with developmental disabilities.
(216) 516-7087 View (216) 516-7087
Photo of Fanta Beretay, Psychiatric Nurse
Fanta Beretay
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
Is your anxiety , depression,ADHD or mood swings preventing you from living a fulfilling life and or accomplishing your personal/relationship goals? I assist individuals with managing their anxiety/depression/mood/ADHD /ADD with medication treatment options based on a combination of mental health treatment guidelines and my expertise that are proven to be effective. With over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings
Is your anxiety , depression,ADHD or mood swings preventing you from living a fulfilling life and or accomplishing your personal/relationship goals? I assist individuals with managing their anxiety/depression/mood/ADHD /ADD with medication treatment options based on a combination of mental health treatment guidelines and my expertise that are proven to be effective. With over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings
(513) 496-3565 View (513) 496-3565
Photo of Queen Ajiere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Queen Ajiere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Accepting new patients for telehealth or in-office visits in Illinois
Accepting new patients for telehealth or in-office visits in Illinois
(331) 236-6212 View (331) 236-6212
Photo of Brooke Palicki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Brooke Palicki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, RN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Thank you to all who have tried to contact me so far! I am not up and running quite yet...but I will be soon. I am keeping track of those who have contacted me, and I will connect with you soon. Stay tuned. Right now, I am able to update what insurance I take often and to let you know...it is changing all the time since I'm getting started, so do not worry, I will try my best to get you seen!
Thank you to all who have tried to contact me so far! I am not up and running quite yet...but I will be soon. I am keeping track of those who have contacted me, and I will connect with you soon. Stay tuned. Right now, I am able to update what insurance I take often and to let you know...it is changing all the time since I'm getting started, so do not worry, I will try my best to get you seen!
(419) 863-3535 View (419) 863-3535
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, Psychiatrist, MD
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Toledo, OH 43617
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 also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. 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 (419) 318-1200 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 also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. 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 (419) 318-1200 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(419) 318-1200 View (419) 318-1200

See more therapy options for 43551

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43551

< 10

Psychiatrists in 43551 who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
88% Anxiety
75% ADHD
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Addiction

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 43551 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43551?

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.