Psychiatrists in 44262

Photo of Julie Stone, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Stone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Munroe Falls, OH 44262
Throughout my career as a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have felt privileged that so many clients have trusted me to share their life's experiences and help them along their journey to mental wellness. One Wave At A Time, LLC is the private practice that I started to provide professional and positive mental health services in a non-judgmental, individualized, collaborative, and solution focused approach with medication management services. I am here to help you make the changes in you want in your life, so you can be the best version of yourself.
Throughout my career as a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have felt privileged that so many clients have trusted me to share their life's experiences and help them along their journey to mental wellness. One Wave At A Time, LLC is the private practice that I started to provide professional and positive mental health services in a non-judgmental, individualized, collaborative, and solution focused approach with medication management services. I am here to help you make the changes in you want in your life, so you can be the best version of yourself.
(330) 522-1967 View (330) 522-1967

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Madia Pewu, PMHN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madia Pewu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHN
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
Madia Pewu is dual board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Licensed in Ohio, Madia has over 23 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. She obtained her bachelor's of nursing degree from Cleveland State University, her master's degree from United States University, and her post-master's certificate from Purdue University Global. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Trained in medication management and therapy, Madia provides therapy sessions via video for adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Madia Pewu is dual board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Licensed in Ohio, Madia has over 23 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. She obtained her bachelor's of nursing degree from Cleveland State University, her master's degree from United States University, and her post-master's certificate from Purdue University Global. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Trained in medication management and therapy, Madia provides therapy sessions via video for adolescents, adults, and seniors.
(440) 586-4993 View (440) 586-4993
Photo of Kerri Pearch, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kerri Pearch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44114  (Online Only)
My passion is helping people improve their quality of life through unpacking the past and working towards a better future through medication and therapy. I enjoy working with all patients struggling with mental health and find that being a genuine listener helps to create a bond between myself and my patients.
My passion is helping people improve their quality of life through unpacking the past and working towards a better future through medication and therapy. I enjoy working with all patients struggling with mental health and find that being a genuine listener helps to create a bond between myself and my patients.
(513) 845-3797 View (513) 845-3797
Photo of Megan A Demos, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan A Demos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alliance, OH 44601
My philosophy is to treat others as I would want to be treated. It is my moral obligation to provide nonjudgmental care & support as I work in collaboration with my clients. I believe the treatment of psychiatric disorders should be holistic in nature, which may include, utilizing prescription medications, psychotherapy, vitamins, & other supplements. This whole-body approach should also incorporate lifestyle changes & wellness principles, such as- dietary changes, exercise, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, and social connection. I also believe that patient education and engagement is key in the healing process.
My philosophy is to treat others as I would want to be treated. It is my moral obligation to provide nonjudgmental care & support as I work in collaboration with my clients. I believe the treatment of psychiatric disorders should be holistic in nature, which may include, utilizing prescription medications, psychotherapy, vitamins, & other supplements. This whole-body approach should also incorporate lifestyle changes & wellness principles, such as- dietary changes, exercise, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, and social connection. I also believe that patient education and engagement is key in the healing process.
(330) 798-0491 View (330) 798-0491
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44106  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
View
Photo of Jennifer Foresman - Balance Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44240  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a provider who will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges? At Balance Psychiatric Services, we understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
Are you looking for a provider who will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges? At Balance Psychiatric Services, we understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
(503) 217-2913 View (503) 217-2913
Photo of David McNair, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David McNair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Twinsburg, OH 44087
David McNair is an Ohio native that earned his bachelor's degree in nursing from Kent State University and master's degree in nursing from Walden University. Board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, he has over a decade of clinical experience in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic mental health care and also serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. He sees patients ages 6 to 75 and specializes in treating anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
David McNair is an Ohio native that earned his bachelor's degree in nursing from Kent State University and master's degree in nursing from Walden University. Board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, he has over a decade of clinical experience in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic mental health care and also serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. He sees patients ages 6 to 75 and specializes in treating anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
(234) 348-3792 View (234) 348-3792
Photo of Tanya Clark - Harmoni Health and Wellness, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harmoni Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macedonia, OH 44056  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Tanya and I have been working with the adult mental health population for over 18 years. When providing care to people, it is important to provide care and treatment that is tailored to the individual. At Harmoni Health and Wellness, individualized care provided virtually allow clients to be cared for in the comfort and safety of their own homes which makes open, honest, therapeutic communication easier, leading to quality individualized treatment. I will work hard together with you to even out some of the hills and valleys in your life.
Hello, my name is Tanya and I have been working with the adult mental health population for over 18 years. When providing care to people, it is important to provide care and treatment that is tailored to the individual. At Harmoni Health and Wellness, individualized care provided virtually allow clients to be cared for in the comfort and safety of their own homes which makes open, honest, therapeutic communication easier, leading to quality individualized treatment. I will work hard together with you to even out some of the hills and valleys in your life.
(234) 657-3105 View (234) 657-3105
Photo of Sara Hong, MD, Psychiatrist
Sara Hong
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairlawn, OH 44333
Dr. Hong is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child and adolescent psychiatry. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northwestern University, her master's degree from Northern Illinois University and her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She served her general psychiatry residency and fellowship training at Thomas Jefferson University, where she was chief fellow. Dr. Hong is a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia, the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association.
Dr. Hong is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child and adolescent psychiatry. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northwestern University, her master's degree from Northern Illinois University and her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She served her general psychiatry residency and fellowship training at Thomas Jefferson University, where she was chief fellow. Dr. Hong is a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia, the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association.
(330) 521-3495 View (330) 521-3495
Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atwater, OH 44201  (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.
(440) 693-3884 View (440) 693-3884
Photo of Natasha McMillian, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasha McMillian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44114  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Ohio. I received my masters at NKU. I have been practicing for more than 2 years. Currently I work full time at a college campus clinic, but recently decided to start my own practice through Grow Therapy. I look forward to helping clients achieve their mental health goals.
Hi, I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Ohio. I received my masters at NKU. I have been practicing for more than 2 years. Currently I work full time at a college campus clinic, but recently decided to start my own practice through Grow Therapy. I look forward to helping clients achieve their mental health goals.
(513) 995-8263 View (513) 995-8263
Photo of Lindsey Fascione, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsey Fascione
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berea, OH 44017
At Insight Psychiatric Clinic, we value that everyone is different. We strive to veer from the cookie-cutter approach. Over the years, psychiatry has turned into a standardized approach, with lack of emphasis on people's different backgrounds, personalities, everyday lifestyles, and the many other qualities that make us all unique. At our clinic, we provide the necessary tools to increase overall health and wellness. We emphasize changes in diet and exercise, and encourage coordination with other healthcare providers, and offer medication. Our goal is for you to thrive and be the happiest, most successful version of yourself.
At Insight Psychiatric Clinic, we value that everyone is different. We strive to veer from the cookie-cutter approach. Over the years, psychiatry has turned into a standardized approach, with lack of emphasis on people's different backgrounds, personalities, everyday lifestyles, and the many other qualities that make us all unique. At our clinic, we provide the necessary tools to increase overall health and wellness. We emphasize changes in diet and exercise, and encourage coordination with other healthcare providers, and offer medication. Our goal is for you to thrive and be the happiest, most successful version of yourself.
(440) 797-3874 View (440) 797-3874
Photo of Akeem Adeniyi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Akeem Adeniyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44114  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a licensed Professional Psychiatry NP base in Lima, Ohio. I received two Masters degree from University of Cincinnati, one in Family practice NP, and one as a Psychiatry NP and board certified by ANCC and AANP. I have been practicing for 5 years has Psych NP and i have been opportune to be of service to many patients. It is a great privilege in helping others, as bringing happiness to others through my job bring happiness to me as well. I am passionate about mental health and look forward to meeting you today!
Hi! I'm a licensed Professional Psychiatry NP base in Lima, Ohio. I received two Masters degree from University of Cincinnati, one in Family practice NP, and one as a Psychiatry NP and board certified by ANCC and AANP. I have been practicing for 5 years has Psych NP and i have been opportune to be of service to many patients. It is a great privilege in helping others, as bringing happiness to others through my job bring happiness to me as well. I am passionate about mental health and look forward to meeting you today!
(513) 866-4241 View (513) 866-4241
Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Streetsboro, OH 44241  (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.
(216) 777-7699 View (216) 777-7699
Photo of Chinyere Ihejirika - CIP Healthcare LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
CIP Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Accepting New Clients in OH, TX & AZ-. I am committed to helping those suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit disorder, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse. I am a practicing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio Arizona and Texas. I have been working as a nurse for 20 years and in mental health for 10 years—and have loved every moment! I became a nurse practitioner to deliver a higher level of patient care, realize a greater scope of practice and have increased job satisfaction. I wanted to participate in a follow- up and plan of care in a more meaningful way.
Accepting New Clients in OH, TX & AZ-. I am committed to helping those suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit disorder, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse. I am a practicing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio Arizona and Texas. I have been working as a nurse for 20 years and in mental health for 10 years—and have loved every moment! I became a nurse practitioner to deliver a higher level of patient care, realize a greater scope of practice and have increased job satisfaction. I wanted to participate in a follow- up and plan of care in a more meaningful way.
(832) 802-7364 View (832) 802-7364
Photo of Sheena Witmer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheena Witmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Specializing in guiding youth through challenging mental health challenges. If your child is acting out, expressing suicidal thoughts, or has experienced trauma, but lacks a formal diagnosis, I am here to help. By offering both diagnosis and targeted treatment, we ensure each child receives the personalized care they need in a structured, nurturing environment.
Specializing in guiding youth through challenging mental health challenges. If your child is acting out, expressing suicidal thoughts, or has experienced trauma, but lacks a formal diagnosis, I am here to help. By offering both diagnosis and targeted treatment, we ensure each child receives the personalized care they need in a structured, nurturing environment.
(216) 340-9591 View (216) 340-9591
Photo of Melinda Kaye Bates, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melinda Kaye Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44113
The mind and the body are both important parts of your overall well-being. We will work together to create a treatment plan that will improve your mental health and help you to feel like your best self.
The mind and the body are both important parts of your overall well-being. We will work together to create a treatment plan that will improve your mental health and help you to feel like your best self.
(614) 826-6567 View (614) 826-6567
Photo of Nikki Glass, NP ,  PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nikki Glass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fairlawn, OH 44333
Nikki Glass is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience treating mood and anxiety disorders across the lifespan. She received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Kent State University and a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Akron. Nikki employs a blend of psychiatric medication management and holistic approaches to help people alleviate mental health symptoms and lead a more meaningful life. Beyond her profession, Nikki finds joy in family time, nature, home renovations, gardening, and indulging in a compelling Netflix show.
Nikki Glass is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience treating mood and anxiety disorders across the lifespan. She received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Kent State University and a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Akron. Nikki employs a blend of psychiatric medication management and holistic approaches to help people alleviate mental health symptoms and lead a more meaningful life. Beyond her profession, Nikki finds joy in family time, nature, home renovations, gardening, and indulging in a compelling Netflix show.
(330) 583-1813 View (330) 583-1813
Photo of Deebora Monroe - Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Highland Heights, OH 44143  (Online Only)
Dr. Deebora Monroe, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate from Herzing College, specializes in adult patient care at Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness (AMHAW) in partnership with Headway. She concentrates on treating a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, OCD, and similar issues. Dr. Monroe is dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based care to help individuals improve their mental health.
Dr. Deebora Monroe, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate from Herzing College, specializes in adult patient care at Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness (AMHAW) in partnership with Headway. She concentrates on treating a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, OCD, and similar issues. Dr. Monroe is dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based care to help individuals improve their mental health.
(440) 496-7382 View (440) 496-7382
Photo of Denise Dews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denise Dews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44114
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
(513) 960-7137 View (513) 960-7137

See more therapy options for 44262

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 44262

< 10

Psychiatrists in 44262 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Transgender

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% ComPsych

How Psychiatrists in 44262 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 44262?

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.