Psychiatrists in 43601

Photo of Breanna Millsap - Breanna Millsap MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC
Breanna Millsap MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43601
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your free consultation today!
(419) 637-4345 View (419) 637-4345
Photo of Dr. Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Serves Area
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
(614) 810-8424 View (614) 810-8424
Photo of Celestine Ateafacktaleh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, APRN, Ohio
Celestine Ateafacktaleh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, APRN, Ohio
Online Only
I am a psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, seeing patients all over Ohio. I educate patients and families about their diagnoses, reduce stigma and advocate for patients with mental health problems, I accept all adult who realized the have a problem and need someone to evaluate them, create and individualized treatment plan and involve patients in their treatment plan and decision making. I do follow up, manage patients' medications to make sure they reach their treatment goal and function well in the home and community.
I am a psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, seeing patients all over Ohio. I educate patients and families about their diagnoses, reduce stigma and advocate for patients with mental health problems, I accept all adult who realized the have a problem and need someone to evaluate them, create and individualized treatment plan and involve patients in their treatment plan and decision making. I do follow up, manage patients' medications to make sure they reach their treatment goal and function well in the home and community.
(740) 913-4838 View (740) 913-4838
Photo of Nikki Mendoza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nikki Mendoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck—unsure why things feel harder than they used to. Perhaps you’re struggling with mood changes, ADHD, or the weight of daily stress, life transitions, or relationship challenges. You want to feel like yourself again, to be heard without judgment, and to find real relief—not just quick fixes. You may be seeking clarity, balance, and a sense of control over your mental health, with support from someone who truly listens and understands your experience.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck—unsure why things feel harder than they used to. Perhaps you’re struggling with mood changes, ADHD, or the weight of daily stress, life transitions, or relationship challenges. You want to feel like yourself again, to be heard without judgment, and to find real relief—not just quick fixes. You may be seeking clarity, balance, and a sense of control over your mental health, with support from someone who truly listens and understands your experience.
(614) 881-2374 View (614) 881-2374
Photo of Andrea Balluch-Dean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Andrea Balluch-Dean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. If you’ve found your way here, you’re likely seeking to make a meaningful change in your life—and I commend you for taking that first step. Beginning the journey toward emotional wellness can feel daunting. After all, opening up to someone you’ve never met about personal struggles isn’t easy. That’s why finding the right mental health professional—someone you feel comfortable with, who has the experience and empathy to support you—is so important. I’m here to help you navigate that journey with compassion, collaboration, and clinical expertise.
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. If you’ve found your way here, you’re likely seeking to make a meaningful change in your life—and I commend you for taking that first step. Beginning the journey toward emotional wellness can feel daunting. After all, opening up to someone you’ve never met about personal struggles isn’t easy. That’s why finding the right mental health professional—someone you feel comfortable with, who has the experience and empathy to support you—is so important. I’m here to help you navigate that journey with compassion, collaboration, and clinical expertise.
(513) 643-1325 View (513) 643-1325

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, Psychiatrist, MD
TelaMD Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
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.
(614) 502-3491 View (614) 502-3491
Photo of Jennifer Cochran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Cochran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
9 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 Angela Diahann Sullivan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APRN, MSN
Angela Diahann Sullivan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APRN, MSN
Toledo, OH 43606
My goal is to help those patients who are struggling with a mental health disorder to obtain proper treatment early on in the disease process. Mental health disorders, if not treated properly, can lead to multiple, multisystem complications.
My goal is to help those patients who are struggling with a mental health disorder to obtain proper treatment early on in the disease process. Mental health disorders, if not treated properly, can lead to multiple, multisystem complications.
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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 Judith Gray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Judith Gray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in both inpatient/outpatient mental health settings, I am passionate about providing thoughtful, evidence-based care that supports each person's unique path to healing. I work with adults navigating a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and respect. I believe that mental health care should feel safe, validating and empowering.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in both inpatient/outpatient mental health settings, I am passionate about providing thoughtful, evidence-based care that supports each person's unique path to healing. I work with adults navigating a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and respect. I believe that mental health care should feel safe, validating and empowering.
(440) 335-5416 View (440) 335-5416
Photo of Kelsey Fairchild - Spectrum Mental Health Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Spectrum Mental Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Bowling Green, OH 43402
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
Photo of Karli Taylor Clark, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Karli Taylor Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43606
Accepting new clients! You might be high-functioning on the outside but quietly overwhelmed inside. Maybe your brain never shuts off, your mood feels unpredictable, or you’re exhausted from trying to “manage” everything on your own. I work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and big life shifts—like becoming a parent or stepping into adulthood. My goal is to offer calm, collaborative care that helps you feel steadier, clearer, and more like yourself again.
Accepting new clients! You might be high-functioning on the outside but quietly overwhelmed inside. Maybe your brain never shuts off, your mood feels unpredictable, or you’re exhausted from trying to “manage” everything on your own. I work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and big life shifts—like becoming a parent or stepping into adulthood. My goal is to offer calm, collaborative care that helps you feel steadier, clearer, and more like yourself again.
(419) 871-3887 View (419) 871-3887
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Toledo, OH 43615
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.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Jessica Asher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FNP
Jessica Asher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FNP
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43606
Life can feel like a lot sometimes- work, family, relationships, or just keeping your own head above water. I work with teens, new parents, LGBTQ+ clients, and neurodivergent individuals, as well as anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or OCD. My goal is simple: help you feel heard, supported, and more in control of your life. I focus on understanding the whole person- not just the symptoms. Every appointment is an opportunity to learn about what’s going on in your life, what matters to you, and how your mental health fits into your day-to-day.
Life can feel like a lot sometimes- work, family, relationships, or just keeping your own head above water. I work with teens, new parents, LGBTQ+ clients, and neurodivergent individuals, as well as anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or OCD. My goal is simple: help you feel heard, supported, and more in control of your life. I focus on understanding the whole person- not just the symptoms. Every appointment is an opportunity to learn about what’s going on in your life, what matters to you, and how your mental health fits into your day-to-day.
(419) 574-6079 View (419) 574-6079
Photo of Tameshia Wiggins - Evolve Mental Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Evolve Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
2 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43614
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
(419) 938-4259 View (419) 938-4259
Photo of Amanda M. Seabolt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Ph.D., PMHNP
Amanda M. Seabolt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Ph.D., PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43617
Amanda is a mental health professional with over 12 years' experience in the healthcare field. Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she is able to offer services across the lifespan from peds to geriatrics. Her experiences have created an individualized approach to providing diagnostic and medication management services to clients with mental health concerns.
Amanda is a mental health professional with over 12 years' experience in the healthcare field. Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she is able to offer services across the lifespan from peds to geriatrics. Her experiences have created an individualized approach to providing diagnostic and medication management services to clients with mental health concerns.
(419) 574-6075 View (419) 574-6075
Photo of Austin McVety, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Austin McVety
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toledo, OH 43612
New practice with minimal wait times. Accepting Ohio and Michigan Patients. Located Near Toledo, Ohio. Psychiatric medication management.
New practice with minimal wait times. Accepting Ohio and Michigan Patients. Located Near Toledo, Ohio. Psychiatric medication management.
(734) 789-6911 View (734) 789-6911
Sunforest Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
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 Jonathan Maciejewski, Psychiatrist
Jonathan Maciejewski
Psychiatrist
Perrysburg, OH 43551
Dr. Maciejewski is a psychiatrist specializing in comprehensive medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. With a patient-centered and evidence-based approach, he focuses on creating individualized treatment plans that prioritize both effectiveness and quality of life.
Dr. Maciejewski is a psychiatrist specializing in comprehensive medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. With a patient-centered and evidence-based approach, he focuses on creating individualized treatment plans that prioritize both effectiveness and quality of life.
(419) 862-8566 View (419) 862-8566
Photo of Stefanie Fox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Stefanie Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Holland, OH 43528
Stefanie Fox, MSN-Ed, APRN-CNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dually board certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health accepting new patients in Ohio, New Hampshire, and Colorado. She also has licensure pending in multiple other states, which will be added to availability soon. She has dedicated greater than 10 years to providing patient-centered care across various settings, including emergency medicine, critical care transport, primary care, inpatient detox, residential treatment, corrections, and outpatient mental health care. She is currently working on certification in Functional Medicine as well.
Stefanie Fox, MSN-Ed, APRN-CNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dually board certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health accepting new patients in Ohio, New Hampshire, and Colorado. She also has licensure pending in multiple other states, which will be added to availability soon. She has dedicated greater than 10 years to providing patient-centered care across various settings, including emergency medicine, critical care transport, primary care, inpatient detox, residential treatment, corrections, and outpatient mental health care. She is currently working on certification in Functional Medicine as well.
(419) 495-8673 View (419) 495-8673

See more therapy options for 43601

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43601

< 10

Psychiatrists in 43601 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management
80% Addiction
80% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 43601 see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43601?

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.