Psychiatrists in 43560

Photo of Tiffiny Wicks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffiny Wicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
Tiffiny is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is dedicated to providing holistic, client-centered care. She collaborates closely with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that encompass medication management and therapeutic interventions, tailored to meet the specific needs of her clients. Tiffiny strives to foster a safe environment for her clients to openly share their concerns and embrace their mental health. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD.
Tiffiny is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is dedicated to providing holistic, client-centered care. She collaborates closely with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that encompass medication management and therapeutic interventions, tailored to meet the specific needs of her clients. Tiffiny strives to foster a safe environment for her clients to openly share their concerns and embrace their mental health. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD.
(419) 658-7853 View (419) 658-7853
Photo of Brandi Smith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandi Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing mental health care for all ages. We will discuss and develop a plan together to address your concerns. I know it can be a challenge to reach out for help, I offer an approach that includes Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR therapy and medication. If you or your child are struggling with loss or have experienced trauma, I can help.
I specialize in providing mental health care for all ages. We will discuss and develop a plan together to address your concerns. I know it can be a challenge to reach out for help, I offer an approach that includes Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR therapy and medication. If you or your child are struggling with loss or have experienced trauma, I can help.
(419) 792-3583 View (419) 792-3583

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43606
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 Nicole Sbrocchi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Sbrocchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maumee, OH 43537
Mental health is as important as physical health because it affects our thoughts, feelings, and actions. When our mental health is affected, it can influence how we see ourselves, relate to others, and make decisions.
Mental health is as important as physical health because it affects our thoughts, feelings, and actions. When our mental health is affected, it can influence how we see ourselves, relate to others, and make decisions.
(567) 409-2316 View (567) 409-2316
Photo of Gerald Makobong, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43606
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 Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43615  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Theresa Marie Mills, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Marie Mills
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43601  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients in Ohio and Arizona! Theresa is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center with 4 years of experience. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Toledo, in Toledo, Ohio. Theresa has worked as an ER nurse for 15 years, which has helped her illustrate the gap between medical and psychiatric care, and how the mind/body connection is often ignored. These gaps pushed her to obtain her psychiatric nurse practitioner degree.
Accepting New Patients in Ohio and Arizona! Theresa is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center with 4 years of experience. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Toledo, in Toledo, Ohio. Theresa has worked as an ER nurse for 15 years, which has helped her illustrate the gap between medical and psychiatric care, and how the mind/body connection is often ignored. These gaps pushed her to obtain her psychiatric nurse practitioner degree.
(419) 823-9752 View (419) 823-9752
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, MD, Psychiatrist
TelaMD Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43612
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you would like to set up an appointment.
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you would like to set up an appointment.
(614) 502-3491 View (614) 502-3491
Photo of Laura Kless, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse
Laura Kless
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Ottawa Hills, OH 43606  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with children and adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum, reactive attachment, disruptive, conduct, and other psychiatric disorders.
I am passionate about working with children and adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum, reactive attachment, disruptive, conduct, and other psychiatric disorders.
(419) 500-4376 View (419) 500-4376
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43606
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 Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43606
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 Dr. Karen Harris, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FAAN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Karen Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FAAN
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43623
When you are hurting and unable to focus due to anxiety, depression, addiction or whatever the problem, be it your own or someone else's, you want relief. Contact me, I am here to help. You are not alone. I want to help you navigate to your best form possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I feel your pain and I am here to help. Book a session with me today.
When you are hurting and unable to focus due to anxiety, depression, addiction or whatever the problem, be it your own or someone else's, you want relief. Contact me, I am here to help. You are not alone. I want to help you navigate to your best form possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I feel your pain and I am here to help. Book a session with me today.
(513) 613-9783 View (513) 613-9783
Photo of Andrea Balluch-Dean, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrea Balluch-Dean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43601  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. I presume you found my profile because you are seeking to make a positive change in your life? I applaud your efforts. Taking the first step on your path to wellness is the most important, and for some, the most intimidating. Lets face it, it’s not easy to open up to a total stranger about your mental health needs. That’s why it is important to find a mental health clinician with whom you can connect. A clinician who possesses the qualities and skills essential to developing and growing a therapeutic relationship with you.
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. I presume you found my profile because you are seeking to make a positive change in your life? I applaud your efforts. Taking the first step on your path to wellness is the most important, and for some, the most intimidating. Lets face it, it’s not easy to open up to a total stranger about your mental health needs. That’s why it is important to find a mental health clinician with whom you can connect. A clinician who possesses the qualities and skills essential to developing and growing a therapeutic relationship with you.
(513) 643-1325 View (513) 643-1325
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43604  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
(513) 434-6732 View (513) 434-6732
Photo of Jacquel McCadney - Sisters of Hope in Psychiatry PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sisters of Hope in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43604  (Online Only)
We are looking to work with various populations within mental health, to break stigmas and promote overall health.
We are looking to work with various populations within mental health, to break stigmas and promote overall health.
(419) 614-6033 View (419) 614-6033
Photo of Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43614  (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Sunforest Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43623
We are focused on clients with anxiety disorders, affective disorders, trauma related disorders, and somatization and pain disorders. We specialize in Geriatric Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Consulting Psychiatry and Independent Medical Evaluations for different pension and disability boards. Our staff encompasses 3 psychiatrists, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and we are in course of hiring 2 therapists. Our approach is client centered and we are not under any time constraints dedicating as much time as necessary to each client. You can learn more about each one of the providers at our Website at SunforestBehavioral.com and call to schedule an appointment at 419 7246567 or fax at 419 2141081. We return calls within 24-48 hours and do a short phone intake. The patients will fill several forms in our portal prior to their appointments. We are utmost sensitive to our patients' feedback and try to permanently improve ourselves.
We are focused on clients with anxiety disorders, affective disorders, trauma related disorders, and somatization and pain disorders. We specialize in Geriatric Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Consulting Psychiatry and Independent Medical Evaluations for different pension and disability boards. Our staff encompasses 3 psychiatrists, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and we are in course of hiring 2 therapists. Our approach is client centered and we are not under any time constraints dedicating as much time as necessary to each client. You can learn more about each one of the providers at our Website at SunforestBehavioral.com and call to schedule an appointment at 419 7246567 or fax at 419 2141081. We return calls within 24-48 hours and do a short phone intake. The patients will fill several forms in our portal prior to their appointments. We are utmost sensitive to our patients' feedback and try to permanently improve ourselves.
(419) 731-6536 View (419) 731-6536
Photo of Michelle Fuhr, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Fuhr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Maumee, OH 43537
I enjoy working with individuals from 16 years old to aging adults. Working in healthcare for so many years, I understand the struggles of the things we carry and tuck under the rug which really gives me a strong passion for helping healthcare workers and giving back to that community. I also have a strong passion for military, minorities, adopted, and LGTBQ+ communities. But really, I want to help everyone I can. I want everyone to feel like their best self and enjoy life to the fullest.
I enjoy working with individuals from 16 years old to aging adults. Working in healthcare for so many years, I understand the struggles of the things we carry and tuck under the rug which really gives me a strong passion for helping healthcare workers and giving back to that community. I also have a strong passion for military, minorities, adopted, and LGTBQ+ communities. But really, I want to help everyone I can. I want everyone to feel like their best self and enjoy life to the fullest.
(419) 374-9521 View (419) 374-9521
Photo of Kayla Jordan Peters, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayla Jordan Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43623
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

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43560

< 10

Psychiatrists in 43560 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
50% ADHD
50% Domestic Abuse
50% Grief
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medical Mutual

How Psychiatrists in 43560 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43560?

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.