Psychiatrists in 43615

Photo of Stephanie Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Stephanie Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Online Only
I am a big advocate for preventive medicine. There is value in educating patients to pursue wellness as well as the treatment of illness. My goal is to guide patients through their healthcare journey and find individualized solutions. I believe, as a healthcare provider, we can do right by our patients when we take to time to LISTEN to more than just complaints of symptoms. We should be taking in the patient’s biological and environmental background as well.
I am a big advocate for preventive medicine. There is value in educating patients to pursue wellness as well as the treatment of illness. My goal is to guide patients through their healthcare journey and find individualized solutions. I believe, as a healthcare provider, we can do right by our patients when we take to time to LISTEN to more than just complaints of symptoms. We should be taking in the patient’s biological and environmental background as well.
(419) 749-6020 View (419) 749-6020
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Toledo, OH 43615
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of 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.
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Photo of Ebrima Jatta, Psychiatric Nurse
Ebrima Jatta
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
Ebrima is a Board-Certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to patients ages 14+. Ebrima is a highly motivated, skilled, and qualified professional backed by 3+ years of provider service in mental health and addiction coupled with 15+ years of RN experience and a proven ability to deliver evidence-based care for patients across the lifespan with a broad range of physical and mental health needs.
Ebrima is a Board-Certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to patients ages 14+. Ebrima is a highly motivated, skilled, and qualified professional backed by 3+ years of provider service in mental health and addiction coupled with 15+ years of RN experience and a proven ability to deliver evidence-based care for patients across the lifespan with a broad range of physical and mental health needs.
(513) 643-9933 View (513) 643-9933
Photo of Regina Marie Woodson - Divinity Psychiatric Care, LLC., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Divinity Psychiatric Care, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I take the time to truly listen, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel validated and supported. From medication management to lifestyle adjustments and coping techniques, clients gain actionable tools they can use in daily life. Each session is tailored to their specific needs, ensuring they have a customized care plan that aligns with their goals and lifestyle. Whether struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness/family dynamics, they leave feeling encouraged and ready to take positive steps toward healing.
I take the time to truly listen, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel validated and supported. From medication management to lifestyle adjustments and coping techniques, clients gain actionable tools they can use in daily life. Each session is tailored to their specific needs, ensuring they have a customized care plan that aligns with their goals and lifestyle. Whether struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness/family dynamics, they leave feeling encouraged and ready to take positive steps toward healing.
(513) 640-2741 View (513) 640-2741

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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
3 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
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 Fanta Beretay, Psychiatric Nurse
Fanta Beretay
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
Is your anxiety , depression,ADHD or mood swings preventing you from living a fulfilling life and or accomplishing your personal/relationship goals? I assist individuals with managing their anxiety/depression/mood/ADHD /ADD with medication treatment options based on a combination of mental health treatment guidelines and my expertise that are proven to be effective. With over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings
Is your anxiety , depression,ADHD or mood swings preventing you from living a fulfilling life and or accomplishing your personal/relationship goals? I assist individuals with managing their anxiety/depression/mood/ADHD /ADD with medication treatment options based on a combination of mental health treatment guidelines and my expertise that are proven to be effective. With over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings
(513) 496-3565 View (513) 496-3565
Photo of Arrey Eyongherok, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arrey Eyongherok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Arrey Eyongherok is a Doctoral prepared nurse practitioner (DNP) who graduated with Honors and has over 8 years of diverse experience with areas of expertise in Family/Primary Care, Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, & Mental Health Disorders/ Dual Diagnoses/Psychotherapies. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees both children and adults (ages 0 to 100 years old) as well as pregnant women
Arrey Eyongherok is a Doctoral prepared nurse practitioner (DNP) who graduated with Honors and has over 8 years of diverse experience with areas of expertise in Family/Primary Care, Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, & Mental Health Disorders/ Dual Diagnoses/Psychotherapies. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees both children and adults (ages 0 to 100 years old) as well as pregnant women
(740) 204-7116 View (740) 204-7116
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Perrysburg, OH 43551
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(614) 412-2036 View (614) 412-2036
Photo of Jennifer Cochran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Cochran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Oregon, OH 43616
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in both Ohio and Florida. I am dedicated to making a difference in my patients lives! I evaluate and screen for various mental health conditions and determine if medication is the right route for treatment, then adjust those medications in a safe manner. My passion is helping patients achieve balance in their daily life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. I want to help you achieve stability and help you grow! I provide a safe space, am LGBTQA+ friendly, and provide care in a non-judgmental manner. Your goals are my goals!
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in both Ohio and Florida. I am dedicated to making a difference in my patients lives! I evaluate and screen for various mental health conditions and determine if medication is the right route for treatment, then adjust those medications in a safe manner. My passion is helping patients achieve balance in their daily life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. I want to help you achieve stability and help you grow! I provide a safe space, am LGBTQA+ friendly, and provide care in a non-judgmental manner. Your goals are my goals!
(727) 610-8533 View (727) 610-8533
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Perrysburg, OH 43551
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(614) 802-6152 View (614) 802-6152
Photo of 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 Erin Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
Erin Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
(513) 647-2182 View (513) 647-2182
Photo of Kayla Jordan Peters, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kayla Jordan Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Dr. Shazia J. Naqvi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Shazia J. Naqvi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am Dr. Shazia Naqvi, a board-certified adult psychiatrist with years of experience serving the state of Ohio. I am deeply passionate about my work and committed to providing evidence-based, high-quality care to my patients. I take a holistic approach to addressing their concerns, ensuring that we collaborate closely to create personalized treatment plans for their well-being.
I am Dr. Shazia Naqvi, a board-certified adult psychiatrist with years of experience serving the state of Ohio. I am deeply passionate about my work and committed to providing evidence-based, high-quality care to my patients. I take a holistic approach to addressing their concerns, ensuring that we collaborate closely to create personalized treatment plans for their well-being.
(419) 780-3382 View (419) 780-3382
Photo of Danny E. Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny E. Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
(567) 229-3039 View (567) 229-3039
Photo of Dr. Olivetta Uradu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Olivetta Uradu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
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Photo of 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

See more therapy options for 43615

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 43615

< 10

Psychiatrists in 43615 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
80% Medication Management
80% Self-Harming

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in 43615 see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 43615?

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.