Psychiatrists in 43607

Photo of Francess Kall-Sesay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Francess Kall-Sesay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Francess Kall-Sesay. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive care for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia. With a focus on evidence-based treatment, I create individualized care plans that integrate both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic approaches tailored to each patient's unique needs. I emphasize collaboration, taking the time to listen and work closely with patients to empower them in their mental health journey.
My name is Francess Kall-Sesay. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive care for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia. With a focus on evidence-based treatment, I create individualized care plans that integrate both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic approaches tailored to each patient's unique needs. I emphasize collaboration, taking the time to listen and work closely with patients to empower them in their mental health journey.
(419) 314-4202 View (419) 314-4202

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kenneth R Kowalski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, PMHNP
Kenneth R Kowalski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, PMHNP
Sylvania, OH 43560
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re already carrying a lot. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, mood changes, burnout, or just feel “off,” you don’t have to navigate it alone. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported without judgment.
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re already carrying a lot. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, mood changes, burnout, or just feel “off,” you don’t have to navigate it alone. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported without judgment.
(419) 664-8355 View (419) 664-8355
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 Rahel Mitiku, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Rahel Mitiku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello and welcome! I’m a dual Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of experience in healthcare. I believe healing happens when you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. My background in family medicine and psychiatry allows me to understand the deep connection between the mind and body, creating a holistic approach to healing. I specialize in helping adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress-related challenges. Outside of mental healthcare, I enjoy working out, yoga classes, traveling, and nature photography.
Hello and welcome! I’m a dual Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of experience in healthcare. I believe healing happens when you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. My background in family medicine and psychiatry allows me to understand the deep connection between the mind and body, creating a holistic approach to healing. I specialize in helping adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress-related challenges. Outside of mental healthcare, I enjoy working out, yoga classes, traveling, and nature photography.
(614) 362-0941 View (614) 362-0941
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 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 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 Taylor Tomczak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Taylor Tomczak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toledo, OH 43606
Taylor Tomczak is an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Pittsburgh and now residing in Ohio. Taylor earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Akron and Master of Science in Nursing with a psychiatric mental health focus from Walden University. Taylor’s clinical background includes experience as a Medical Provider in addiction medicine with BrightView, where they provided medication-assisted treatment and comprehensive care for individuals in recovery. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Taylor worked as registered nurse in adult and pediatric inpatient psychiatry
Taylor Tomczak is an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Originally from Pittsburgh and now residing in Ohio. Taylor earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Akron and Master of Science in Nursing with a psychiatric mental health focus from Walden University. Taylor’s clinical background includes experience as a Medical Provider in addiction medicine with BrightView, where they provided medication-assisted treatment and comprehensive care for individuals in recovery. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Taylor worked as registered nurse in adult and pediatric inpatient psychiatry
(440) 664-1675 View (440) 664-1675
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 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 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 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 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 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 Ben Wagner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ben Wagner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43617
Starting mental health treatment can feel intimidating, especially if past approaches have not brought the relief you were hoping for. My goal is to meet you where you are, whether you are navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, or other challenges. I create a safe and collaborative space where we can work together to understand your symptoms and build a treatment plan that feels tailored to you.
Starting mental health treatment can feel intimidating, especially if past approaches have not brought the relief you were hoping for. My goal is to meet you where you are, whether you are navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, or other challenges. I create a safe and collaborative space where we can work together to understand your symptoms and build a treatment plan that feels tailored to you.
(419) 863-5377 View (419) 863-5377
Photo of Jessica Lowery, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessica Lowery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toledo, OH 43606
Jessica Lowery is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She is originally from Ohio and recently moved to Reno. Jessica obtained her Master’s degree from Northern Kentucky University in May 2024. She has 21 years of experience as a nurse in a variety of specialties. Jessica is very excited to be in Reno helping individuals with mental health needs.
Jessica Lowery is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She is originally from Ohio and recently moved to Reno. Jessica obtained her Master’s degree from Northern Kentucky University in May 2024. She has 21 years of experience as a nurse in a variety of specialties. Jessica is very excited to be in Reno helping individuals with mental health needs.
(775) 363-0107 View (775) 363-0107
Photo of Tabitha Hale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tabitha Hale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toledo, OH 43606
Tabitha Hale is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner originally from Dupont, Ohio. She earned her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health from Purdue Global University. She brings a diverse clinical background, with experience in critical care, trauma, healthcare administration, and behavioral health in the Emergency room. Her special interest lies in trauma-informed care, with a focus on crisis intervention and improving continuity of care for vulnerable populations.
Tabitha Hale is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner originally from Dupont, Ohio. She earned her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health from Purdue Global University. She brings a diverse clinical background, with experience in critical care, trauma, healthcare administration, and behavioral health in the Emergency room. Her special interest lies in trauma-informed care, with a focus on crisis intervention and improving continuity of care for vulnerable populations.
(419) 517-2298 View (419) 517-2298
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, Psychiatrist, MD
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Toledo, OH 43617
book online at virtualpsych. com VirtualPsych allows for telepsychiatry healthcare remotely from your phone from the convenience of your home. 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're committed to helping you find the right treatment plan that fits your needs.
book online at virtualpsych. com VirtualPsych allows for telepsychiatry healthcare remotely from your phone from the convenience of your home. 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're committed to helping you find the right treatment plan that fits your needs.
(419) 318-1200 View (419) 318-1200
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 Bridget Ehrhart-Bennett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Bridget Ehrhart-Bennett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Serves Area
My ideal clients are individuals of all ages navigating anxiety, depression, mood changes, stress, and life transitions who are seeking thoughtful, supportive care. Many come to gain clarity, stability, and a stronger sense of control over their mental health. I help clients move forward through a collaborative, personalized approach that may include medication management, education, and practical strategies, creating a safe space where they feel heard, supported, and empowered.
My ideal clients are individuals of all ages navigating anxiety, depression, mood changes, stress, and life transitions who are seeking thoughtful, supportive care. Many come to gain clarity, stability, and a stronger sense of control over their mental health. I help clients move forward through a collaborative, personalized approach that may include medication management, education, and practical strategies, creating a safe space where they feel heard, supported, and empowered.
(740) 554-9850 View (740) 554-9850

See more therapy options for 43607

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43607

< 10

Psychiatrists in 43607 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Addiction
100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Personality Disorders

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Coventry

How Psychiatrists in 43607 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43607?

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.