Psychiatrists in 44406

Photo of Kassandra Kornbau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Kassandra Kornbau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
3 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406
I received my Doctorate of Nursing Practice in 2018, and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by ANCC. My goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatment through evidence-based practices. My clinical interests include, but are not limited to, the following: attention deficit disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, depressive disorders, anxiety/panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, binge eating disorder, and mood disorders.
I received my Doctorate of Nursing Practice in 2018, and I am dually board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by ANCC. My goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatment through evidence-based practices. My clinical interests include, but are not limited to, the following: attention deficit disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, depressive disorders, anxiety/panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, binge eating disorder, and mood disorders.
(330) 729-5770 View (330) 729-5770
Photo of Anthony Koch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Anthony Koch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Online Only
Hi, I'm Anthony, a Psychiatric NP & owner of Feel Better & Co., We specialize in supporting individuals facing mental health challenges through personalized telehealth therapy. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other condition, we're here to provide compassionate guidance. Our approach integrates physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions to foster holistic wellness.
Hi, I'm Anthony, a Psychiatric NP & owner of Feel Better & Co., We specialize in supporting individuals facing mental health challenges through personalized telehealth therapy. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other condition, we're here to provide compassionate guidance. Our approach integrates physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions to foster holistic wellness.
(419) 834-9244 View (419) 834-9244
Photo of Mackenzie Kriss, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Mackenzie Kriss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406
Hello! I am Mackenzie Kriss, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I am the Co-Owner of MindWell Psychiatry, LLC. Are you feeling stuck, burnt-out, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next steps in your mental health journey? Tired of seeing a doctor that doesn't listen? Life’s challenges can feel heavy, but you don’t have to face them alone. I specialize in working with adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, adjustment issues, and ADHD. I have a passion for working with patients that are motivated for making changes in their lives, and I am here for you every step of the way.
Hello! I am Mackenzie Kriss, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I am the Co-Owner of MindWell Psychiatry, LLC. Are you feeling stuck, burnt-out, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next steps in your mental health journey? Tired of seeing a doctor that doesn't listen? Life’s challenges can feel heavy, but you don’t have to face them alone. I specialize in working with adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, adjustment issues, and ADHD. I have a passion for working with patients that are motivated for making changes in their lives, and I am here for you every step of the way.
(330) 583-1357 View (330) 583-1357
Photo of Loren Jason Louk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Loren Jason Louk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406
My goal is to provide the best mental health care possible. I accomplish this by being thorough and accurate in assessment, and diagnosis while providing an exceptional level of empathy and compassion. Accepting all major insurances. For self pay clients my fees for an evaluations and for medication/follow up appointments. For clinical hypnosis it is a self pay fee of $250 for 3 sessions. Clients are permitted to record the final session
My goal is to provide the best mental health care possible. I accomplish this by being thorough and accurate in assessment, and diagnosis while providing an exceptional level of empathy and compassion. Accepting all major insurances. For self pay clients my fees for an evaluations and for medication/follow up appointments. For clinical hypnosis it is a self pay fee of $250 for 3 sessions. Clients are permitted to record the final session
(330) 632-8818 View (330) 632-8818
Photo of Madison Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Madison Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406
Are you feeling stressed, sad, overwhelmed, or exhausted from trying to navigate life? I am here to help! I’m Madison Taylor, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Co-owner of MindWell Psychiatry LLC. I offer longer appointment times because, let’s face it, navigating life’s chaos deserves more than a 15-minute chat. We will work together to create a personalized plan, using my experience to help fine-tune medications for the best results. My goal is for you to leave my office feeling like you’ve got your mental health toolkit fully stocked—confident, informed, and ready to take on the world (or at least the day)!
Are you feeling stressed, sad, overwhelmed, or exhausted from trying to navigate life? I am here to help! I’m Madison Taylor, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Co-owner of MindWell Psychiatry LLC. I offer longer appointment times because, let’s face it, navigating life’s chaos deserves more than a 15-minute chat. We will work together to create a personalized plan, using my experience to help fine-tune medications for the best results. My goal is for you to leave my office feeling like you’ve got your mental health toolkit fully stocked—confident, informed, and ready to take on the world (or at least the day)!
(234) 368-2772 View (234) 368-2772
Photo of Shannon Milliken, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Shannon Milliken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406
Throughout my 20 year career in healthcare I have come to appreciate that patients desire a healthcare provider that listens to their needs, validates their message and understands their concerns. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In my practice I strive to have a therapeutic alliance with all my patients. I believe that the patient is a vital member of the health care team and a key component of creating a patient plan of care that is patient focused and patient centered.
Throughout my 20 year career in healthcare I have come to appreciate that patients desire a healthcare provider that listens to their needs, validates their message and understands their concerns. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In my practice I strive to have a therapeutic alliance with all my patients. I believe that the patient is a vital member of the health care team and a key component of creating a patient plan of care that is patient focused and patient centered.
(330) 975-8891 View (330) 975-8891
Photo of Rajendra Koirala - Restore Compassionate Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Restore Compassionate Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Neurostar, Spravato and Medical MJ and Suboxone. Intervention Psychiatry and Therapy
Neurostar, Spravato and Medical MJ and Suboxone. Intervention Psychiatry and Therapy
(234) 204-4457 View (234) 204-4457
Photo of Melissa Novits, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Melissa Novits
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you find yourself saying things like "Iam mentally exhausted, I have no motivation, Iam overwhelmed, my brain won't shut off, Iam not good enough? My name is Melissa. I too have these feelings from time to time. Life is interesting and often unfair. Let me help you tackle these negative emotions and unwanted feelings and together we can develop a sound treatment plan to get through the day-to-day obstacles of life. I love helping people help and themselves. I strive to help provide empowerment and the tools to motivate the body and mind. My goal is to help you focus on Mental Wellness verses Mental Illness from the inside out.
Do you find yourself saying things like "Iam mentally exhausted, I have no motivation, Iam overwhelmed, my brain won't shut off, Iam not good enough? My name is Melissa. I too have these feelings from time to time. Life is interesting and often unfair. Let me help you tackle these negative emotions and unwanted feelings and together we can develop a sound treatment plan to get through the day-to-day obstacles of life. I love helping people help and themselves. I strive to help provide empowerment and the tools to motivate the body and mind. My goal is to help you focus on Mental Wellness verses Mental Illness from the inside out.
(330) 355-8551 View (330) 355-8551

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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.
(440) 693-3884 View (440) 693-3884
Photo of Jerret Kolesar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Jerret Kolesar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Warren, OH 44484
I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate challenges that hinder the experience of the beauty and joy of life. I look to build healthy and trustworthy relationships with clients in order to tackle some of life's most difficult issues. In a confidential and safe environment, I address areas of addiction, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, marital/premarital counseling, etc. I am able to address minor and major problems that are impeding you from experiencing your full potential.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate challenges that hinder the experience of the beauty and joy of life. I look to build healthy and trustworthy relationships with clients in order to tackle some of life's most difficult issues. In a confidential and safe environment, I address areas of addiction, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, marital/premarital counseling, etc. I am able to address minor and major problems that are impeding you from experiencing your full potential.
(234) 742-4495 View (234) 742-4495
Photo of Juanita McDonnell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Juanita McDonnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello. I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been working as a family nurse practitioner since 2016. I began working in mental health alongside primary care in my very first position as a family nurse practitioner and that is what prompted me to return to school to obtain my psychiatric nurse practitioner certification. My goal is to help clients work through mental health issues utilizing a holistic approach that includes medication management along with counseling services.
Hello. I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have been working as a family nurse practitioner since 2016. I began working in mental health alongside primary care in my very first position as a family nurse practitioner and that is what prompted me to return to school to obtain my psychiatric nurse practitioner certification. My goal is to help clients work through mental health issues utilizing a holistic approach that includes medication management along with counseling services.
(614) 666-6394 View (614) 666-6394
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.
(440) 659-1653 View (440) 659-1653
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.
(330) 446-3048 View (330) 446-3048
Photo of Stephanie Stecker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Stecker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Boardman, OH 44512
I am a strong believer in psychotherapy combined with medication management to achieve optimal mental health wellness. I am dedicated to understanding each client’s life experiences, traumas and personal holistic health goals. I also value the relationship between provider and client and will strive to build a foundation of trust, openness, and understanding to guide clients through a healthy and active life. Every treatment will be individualized and I will pay special attention to holistic care and treat every patient with compassion. Age range of patients served: 17 years and older
I am a strong believer in psychotherapy combined with medication management to achieve optimal mental health wellness. I am dedicated to understanding each client’s life experiences, traumas and personal holistic health goals. I also value the relationship between provider and client and will strive to build a foundation of trust, openness, and understanding to guide clients through a healthy and active life. Every treatment will be individualized and I will pay special attention to holistic care and treat every patient with compassion. Age range of patients served: 17 years and older
(330) 304-4514 View (330) 304-4514
Photo of Danny E. Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny E. Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Mogadore, OH 44260
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.
(330) 919-6098 View (330) 919-6098
Photo of Ndematelen Asong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ndematelen Asong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at the Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at the Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.
(614) 347-0796 View (614) 347-0796
Photo of Jane Aridge, Psychiatric Nurse
Jane Aridge
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jane Aridge. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over twenty years of mental health and medical experience working with children and adults. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I utilize evidence-based practices when treating mental health disorders. I believe in working with clients and using a holistic approach when treating you or your loved one’s mental health disorders.
Hello, my name is Jane Aridge. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over twenty years of mental health and medical experience working with children and adults. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I utilize evidence-based practices when treating mental health disorders. I believe in working with clients and using a holistic approach when treating you or your loved one’s mental health disorders.
(513) 613-4858 View (513) 613-4858
Paula Susan Eastman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Online Only
Hello, I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing for 10 years and prior to that I was a Psychiatric Nurse for 20 years. I treat ages 18 years old - 85 years old. I treat major depression, general anxiety disorder, panic disorder, simple insomnia, bipolar disorders, brief psychotic episodes and schizophrenia.
Hello, I am a Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing for 10 years and prior to that I was a Psychiatric Nurse for 20 years. I treat ages 18 years old - 85 years old. I treat major depression, general anxiety disorder, panic disorder, simple insomnia, bipolar disorders, brief psychotic episodes and schizophrenia.
(330) 302-6297 View (330) 302-6297
Photo of Stacy Horvath, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stacy Horvath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Warren, OH 44484
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering medication management. I am here to work with you to find the best treatment plan to manage those symptoms that are interfering with your life. We work together as team to make decisions that are informed and beneficial to your individual needs. My goal is to create a space that is supportive and free from judgment. I believe every single person deserves compassionate and comprehensive care.
Accepting new clients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner offering medication management. I am here to work with you to find the best treatment plan to manage those symptoms that are interfering with your life. We work together as team to make decisions that are informed and beneficial to your individual needs. My goal is to create a space that is supportive and free from judgment. I believe every single person deserves compassionate and comprehensive care.
(330) 366-1921 View (330) 366-1921
Photo of Cherese Patterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cherese Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Youngstown, OH 44505
• Do you often feel alone or isolated? • Do you feel like no one truly understands what you’re going through? My ideal client is someone who recognizes the need for support in their mental health journey but may feel unsure about how or where to begin. They may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood instability, which affect their relationships, work, and overall well-being.
• Do you often feel alone or isolated? • Do you feel like no one truly understands what you’re going through? My ideal client is someone who recognizes the need for support in their mental health journey but may feel unsure about how or where to begin. They may be dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood instability, which affect their relationships, work, and overall well-being.
(234) 404-0943 View (234) 404-0943

See more therapy options for 44406

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 44406

< 10

Psychiatrists in 44406 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management
63% ADHD
63% Sleep or Insomnia
50% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
86% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 44406 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 44406?

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.