Psychiatrists in 44067

Photo of Kara Forte-Sullen - Kara Forte-Sullen PMHNP - Seasons Of Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Kara Forte-Sullen PMHNP - Seasons Of Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
13 Endorsed
Northfield, OH 44067
Hello, I'm Kara! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), proudly serving individuals across Ohio- both virtually and in person. Are you seeking personalized care, emotional support, or guidance for general health and wellness, you've come to the right place! Wherever you are on your journey, I’m here to walk alongside you—with empathy, expertise, and a true commitment to your well-being. While medication can be a helpful option, it is never a one-size-fits-all solution. Every treatment plan is created in collaboration—between you and me—based on your unique needs, preferences, and goals.
Hello, I'm Kara! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), proudly serving individuals across Ohio- both virtually and in person. Are you seeking personalized care, emotional support, or guidance for general health and wellness, you've come to the right place! Wherever you are on your journey, I’m here to walk alongside you—with empathy, expertise, and a true commitment to your well-being. While medication can be a helpful option, it is never a one-size-fits-all solution. Every treatment plan is created in collaboration—between you and me—based on your unique needs, preferences, and goals.
(216) 347-8498 View (216) 347-8498
Photo of Sheneka Fears, Psychiatrist
Sheneka Fears
Psychiatrist
Online Only
My health care career began in 2003 as a Registered Nurse and has evolved into the Advanced Practiced Registered Nurse that I am today. I have specialized in the areas of Critical Care; Geriatrics; and Mental/Behavioral Health as a registered nurse. My passion for mental health and wellbeing lead me to further my studies and become Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in holistic and medical approaches to mental health while fighting against the stigma of mental illness. I enjoy working with clients that are committed to bettering their selves mentally; physically; and spiritually.
My health care career began in 2003 as a Registered Nurse and has evolved into the Advanced Practiced Registered Nurse that I am today. I have specialized in the areas of Critical Care; Geriatrics; and Mental/Behavioral Health as a registered nurse. My passion for mental health and wellbeing lead me to further my studies and become Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in holistic and medical approaches to mental health while fighting against the stigma of mental illness. I enjoy working with clients that are committed to bettering their selves mentally; physically; and spiritually.

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Laura Selle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Laura Selle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Independence, OH 44131
Laura specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. She also works with individuals experiencing OCD and sleep disorders, recognizing how intrusive thoughts, insomnia, and disrupted sleep patterns can significantly impact emotional health and overall quality of life. Her care emphasizes careful medication selection, ongoing monitoring, and a balanced approach that integrates mindfulness principles when appropriate.Laura specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. She also works with individuals experiencing
Laura specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. She also works with individuals experiencing OCD and sleep disorders, recognizing how intrusive thoughts, insomnia, and disrupted sleep patterns can significantly impact emotional health and overall quality of life. Her care emphasizes careful medication selection, ongoing monitoring, and a balanced approach that integrates mindfulness principles when appropriate.Laura specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. She also works with individuals experiencing
(216) 236-9098 View (216) 236-9098
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, Psychiatrist, MD
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44305
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.
(330) 222-3512 View (330) 222-3512
Photo of Daniel El-Dabh, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel El-Dabh
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
Dr. El-Dabh is a psychiatrist, who is ready to empower you on your journey to mental wellness. With a rich educational background and extensive training, he brings a depth of knowledge and experience to REACH Behavioral Health. Working with a team of counselors and psychotherapists, he is confident he can help you reach your wellness goals.
Dr. El-Dabh is a psychiatrist, who is ready to empower you on your journey to mental wellness. With a rich educational background and extensive training, he brings a depth of knowledge and experience to REACH Behavioral Health. Working with a team of counselors and psychotherapists, he is confident he can help you reach your wellness goals.
(440) 577-5034 View (440) 577-5034
Photo of Dr. Eytan Hirsch, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Eytan Hirsch
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Rocky River, OH 44116
I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing thoughtful, evidence-based mental health care. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I work collaboratively with patients, families, and their communities to empower them to make informed decisions about their care. My treatment approach is grounded in recovery-oriented principles, focusing on each patient's strengths, values, and goals. I have particular interest in the management of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing thoughtful, evidence-based mental health care. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I work collaboratively with patients, families, and their communities to empower them to make informed decisions about their care. My treatment approach is grounded in recovery-oriented principles, focusing on each patient's strengths, values, and goals. I have particular interest in the management of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders.
(440) 664-2920 View (440) 664-2920
Photo of Kerri Pearch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, ENP
Kerri Pearch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, ENP
Westlake, OH 44145
Kerri Pearch, BSN, MSN, CNP, ENP, PMHNP is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a diverse clinical background spanning psychiatry, family practice, and emergency medicine. Originally from Newcomerstown, Ohio, she brings the values of her small-town roots into her work, emphasizing compassionate, patient-centered care. Kerri completed her Certified Nurse Practitioner education at Malone University and earned her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Kerri Pearch, BSN, MSN, CNP, ENP, PMHNP is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a diverse clinical background spanning psychiatry, family practice, and emergency medicine. Originally from Newcomerstown, Ohio, she brings the values of her small-town roots into her work, emphasizing compassionate, patient-centered care. Kerri completed her Certified Nurse Practitioner education at Malone University and earned her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from the University of Cincinnati.
(440) 635-3811 View (440) 635-3811
Photo of Syed E Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD
Syed E Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD
Brecksville, OH 44141
With 30 years of experience, I am dedicated to providing thoughtful, individualized care to my patienrts. I take great pride in my profession and approach each patient with empathy, clinical precision, and a commitment to evidence-based treatment. My primary focus is on making accurate, comprehensive diagnoses as the foundation for effective care. I work closely with patients to support meaningful behavioral changes that promote long-term mental health and resilience. My overarching goal is to help patients achieve and maintain stability, clarity, and a higher quality of life through balanced, personalized care.
With 30 years of experience, I am dedicated to providing thoughtful, individualized care to my patienrts. I take great pride in my profession and approach each patient with empathy, clinical precision, and a commitment to evidence-based treatment. My primary focus is on making accurate, comprehensive diagnoses as the foundation for effective care. I work closely with patients to support meaningful behavioral changes that promote long-term mental health and resilience. My overarching goal is to help patients achieve and maintain stability, clarity, and a higher quality of life through balanced, personalized care.
(440) 271-8492 View (440) 271-8492
Photo of Lori Solaro, Psychiatrist, MD
Lori Solaro
Psychiatrist, MD
Fairlawn, OH 44333
Dr. Solaro is a child and adolescent psychiatrist with more than 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents and young adults in outpatient, inpatient and residential treatment settings. After graduating from Northwestern University with a bachelor s degree in education and child development, Dr. Solaro earned her medical degree from The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She completed her general psychiatry residency and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, where she served as chief resident.
Dr. Solaro is a child and adolescent psychiatrist with more than 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents and young adults in outpatient, inpatient and residential treatment settings. After graduating from Northwestern University with a bachelor s degree in education and child development, Dr. Solaro earned her medical degree from The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She completed her general psychiatry residency and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, where she served as chief resident.
(330) 862-8380 View (330) 862-8380
Photo of Veronica Pankuch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP-B
Veronica Pankuch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP-B
Beachwood, OH 44122
Veronica is experienced in addressing complex mental health needs, including trauma, eating disorders, substance use, and psychotic disorders with a particular focus on patients recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals. Through thoughtful medication management, she helps patients regain balance, build coping strategies, and move forward with confidence. Outside of her professional work, Veronica enjoys traveling, hiking, and reading, and she is a devoted fan of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Ohio State football.
Veronica is experienced in addressing complex mental health needs, including trauma, eating disorders, substance use, and psychotic disorders with a particular focus on patients recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals. Through thoughtful medication management, she helps patients regain balance, build coping strategies, and move forward with confidence. Outside of her professional work, Veronica enjoys traveling, hiking, and reading, and she is a devoted fan of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Ohio State football.
(216) 616-4474 View (216) 616-4474
Photo of Meghan Baron, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Meghan Baron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
North Olmsted, OH 44070
Meghan Baron is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. She began her career as a psychiatric nurse in 2011 and has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2018. Her diverse clinical background includes work in inpatient psychiatry, outpatient clinics, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and intensive outpatient programs (IOP), giving her a comprehensive understanding of the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and young adults.
Meghan Baron is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. She began her career as a psychiatric nurse in 2011 and has been practicing as a nurse practitioner since 2018. Her diverse clinical background includes work in inpatient psychiatry, outpatient clinics, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and intensive outpatient programs (IOP), giving her a comprehensive understanding of the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and young adults.
(440) 291-5635 View (440) 291-5635
Photo of Christina Redfern - Rise and Thrive Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Rise and Thrive Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Chardon, OH 44024
Hi, I’m Christina Redfern, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving clients across Ohio through both telehealth and in-person care. If you’ve been feeling down, worried, or stressed lately, you’re not alone—those are some of the most common feelings people share with me before they reach out for help. My role is to support you in finding relief, clarity, and a path forward that actually feels manageable. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. In every session, I focus on meeting you with respect, a non-judgmental attitude, and genuine attentiveness to what you’re experiencing.
Hi, I’m Christina Redfern, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving clients across Ohio through both telehealth and in-person care. If you’ve been feeling down, worried, or stressed lately, you’re not alone—those are some of the most common feelings people share with me before they reach out for help. My role is to support you in finding relief, clarity, and a path forward that actually feels manageable. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. In every session, I focus on meeting you with respect, a non-judgmental attitude, and genuine attentiveness to what you’re experiencing.
(440) 737-3890 View (440) 737-3890
Photo of Amber Bucks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Amber Bucks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
I believe healing starts with feeling truly heard and understood. My approach is compassionate, realistic, and grounded in meeting you exactly where you are, without judgment. I work with individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and the emotional weight that comes from high-stress environments. I focus on understanding and addressing the root of what you’re experiencing through a holistic, whole-person approach. This is more than a profession for me; it’s a mission. I’m committed to helping people move from simply survival to genuinely healing.
I believe healing starts with feeling truly heard and understood. My approach is compassionate, realistic, and grounded in meeting you exactly where you are, without judgment. I work with individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and the emotional weight that comes from high-stress environments. I focus on understanding and addressing the root of what you’re experiencing through a holistic, whole-person approach. This is more than a profession for me; it’s a mission. I’m committed to helping people move from simply survival to genuinely healing.
(440) 588-3345 View (440) 588-3345
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 Christopher Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Christopher Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Serves Area
I am a dual licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) and Family Medicine (FNP). Prior to my work in psychiatry, I spent over 10 years working in a mix of emergency medicine, trauma care, urgent care and covering for primary care providers.
I am a dual licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) and Family Medicine (FNP). Prior to my work in psychiatry, I spent over 10 years working in a mix of emergency medicine, trauma care, urgent care and covering for primary care providers.
(440) 597-5690 View (440) 597-5690
Photo of Brittany Kopena, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Brittany Kopena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
North Olmsted, OH 44070
Brittany is particularly passionate about supporting patients recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals, recognizing the importance of continuity of care during this critical transition. She has extensive experience helping individuals manage mood disorders, trauma, and co-occurring behavioral or substance use challenges. By integrating evidence-based strategies with individualized attention, she empowers patients to regain control over their mental health and foster long-term stability.Brittany is particularly passionate about supporting patients recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals, recognizing the importance of con
Brittany is particularly passionate about supporting patients recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals, recognizing the importance of continuity of care during this critical transition. She has extensive experience helping individuals manage mood disorders, trauma, and co-occurring behavioral or substance use challenges. By integrating evidence-based strategies with individualized attention, she empowers patients to regain control over their mental health and foster long-term stability.Brittany is particularly passionate about supporting patients recently discharged from psychiatric hospitals, recognizing the importance of con
(440) 276-5795 View (440) 276-5795
Photo of Kaprise Sparks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kaprise Sparks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cleveland, OH 44104
I understand that potential clients are often looking for someone who truly listens, creates a safe and supportive space, and approaches their care with empathy and respect. Many people want to feel understood without judgment, supported through life transitions, and confident that their concerns are being taken seriously. My goal is to meet clients where they are, honor their lived experiences, and work collaboratively to support emotional well-being and personal growth.
I understand that potential clients are often looking for someone who truly listens, creates a safe and supportive space, and approaches their care with empathy and respect. Many people want to feel understood without judgment, supported through life transitions, and confident that their concerns are being taken seriously. My goal is to meet clients where they are, honor their lived experiences, and work collaboratively to support emotional well-being and personal growth.
(216) 616-3954 View (216) 616-3954
Photo of Krista McDonald, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Krista McDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cleveland, OH 44145
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health and have been practicing since 2007. I have experience treating patients ages 12 and up. I graduated from University of Tampa with a master’s degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master’s certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric mental health. My current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner, I worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health and have been practicing since 2007. I have experience treating patients ages 12 and up. I graduated from University of Tampa with a master’s degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master’s certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric mental health. My current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner, I worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
(440) 613-8373 View (440) 613-8373
Photo of Esther Gotfryd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Esther Gotfryd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Brecksville, OH 44141
Esther B. Gotfryd is certified by the American Academy of Nurse practitioners in Family practice and by the American Nurse Credentialing Center in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan. She received her Master's and Post Master's degrees in nursing from Ursuline College, specializing in family practice and psychiatry. Her previous experience includes work in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. She is a Suboxone provider for the treatment of opiate and opioid disorders. She provides medication management and therapy for ages 15-64.
Esther B. Gotfryd is certified by the American Academy of Nurse practitioners in Family practice and by the American Nurse Credentialing Center in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan. She received her Master's and Post Master's degrees in nursing from Ursuline College, specializing in family practice and psychiatry. Her previous experience includes work in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. She is a Suboxone provider for the treatment of opiate and opioid disorders. She provides medication management and therapy for ages 15-64.
(440) 664-1320 View (440) 664-1320
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Cleveland, OH 44106
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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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 44067

< 10

Psychiatrists in 44067 who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% AmeriHealth
100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 44067 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 44067?

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.