Psychiatrists in 44708

Photo of Kathleen R Boughton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen R Boughton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, OH 44708  (Online Only)
I work with women who are struggling to keep up with their daily life, who feel trapped in a never-ending cycle of stress and overwhelm, and who are hoping to find a way out. These women know that “there is more” but just can’t seem to pull it off. They look at other women and wonder "why everything is so easy for them – what is wrong with me that I can’t figure this out?”. These women are ready to feel better NOW. My unique approach blends medication management AND effective therapeutic techniques to women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and a sense of overwhelm. Accepting NEW patients for telemedicine appointments.
I work with women who are struggling to keep up with their daily life, who feel trapped in a never-ending cycle of stress and overwhelm, and who are hoping to find a way out. These women know that “there is more” but just can’t seem to pull it off. They look at other women and wonder "why everything is so easy for them – what is wrong with me that I can’t figure this out?”. These women are ready to feel better NOW. My unique approach blends medication management AND effective therapeutic techniques to women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and a sense of overwhelm. Accepting NEW patients for telemedicine appointments.
(330) 597-9771 View (330) 597-9771

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Isaac Bofah - Rod Comforters, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP,  -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rod Comforters, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44308
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!** Do you feel hopeless, helpless, or as if your life has no purpose? Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then Welcome to Rod Comforters, LLC. At Rod Comforters, we believe that high quality mental health care is more than treating illness - it is a journey to achieving wellness. Our approach is to help clients form more effective strategies for managing stress so they can feel better, take control of their circumstances and recognize that the power to improve is in their hands.
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!** Do you feel hopeless, helpless, or as if your life has no purpose? Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then Welcome to Rod Comforters, LLC. At Rod Comforters, we believe that high quality mental health care is more than treating illness - it is a journey to achieving wellness. Our approach is to help clients form more effective strategies for managing stress so they can feel better, take control of their circumstances and recognize that the power to improve is in their hands.
(216) 930-1844 View (216) 930-1844
Photo of Sharell Thaxton - Synergy Therapeutics Health & Wellness, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Synergy Therapeutics Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44304  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Sharell, a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve optimal mental well-being through a holistic and personalized approach. With a firm belief in the profound impact of lifestyle modifications, supplements, medication, and therapy on mental health, I am committed to guiding you towards effective solutions tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, I am here to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
Hello, I'm Sharell, a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve optimal mental well-being through a holistic and personalized approach. With a firm belief in the profound impact of lifestyle modifications, supplements, medication, and therapy on mental health, I am committed to guiding you towards effective solutions tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, I am here to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
(234) 339-3330 View (234) 339-3330
Photo of Kamala Adury, Psychiatrist
Kamala Adury
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44312
Clients come with come with mental health and/or sleep issues. The goal is an improved quality of life or rather a sense of wellbeing. If it is a major episode of depression or an episode of psychosis, the goal is remission and relapse prevention. It is a place where you can safely, reliably and productively simplify your complex pharmaceutical regimen. The approach to treatment is multidisciplinary and prescribing or deprescribing might be recommended (but not enforced). We offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Clients come with come with mental health and/or sleep issues. The goal is an improved quality of life or rather a sense of wellbeing. If it is a major episode of depression or an episode of psychosis, the goal is remission and relapse prevention. It is a place where you can safely, reliably and productively simplify your complex pharmaceutical regimen. The approach to treatment is multidisciplinary and prescribing or deprescribing might be recommended (but not enforced). We offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(330) 625-9667 View (330) 625-9667
Photo of Leslie Armstrong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leslie Armstrong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Canton, OH 44718
Compassionate provider to help you through your mental health struggles and guide you to living your best life!
Compassionate provider to help you through your mental health struggles and guide you to living your best life!
(330) 975-2616 View (330) 975-2616
Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 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 Hakim Nuru, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hakim Nuru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44311  (Online Only)
Do you or your child need help to get back on track to a satisfying and productive life? I can help! I provide therapy and if agreed upon medication management in low doses for proven results. Together we can make changes that will last a lifetime. If you want to stop the cycle that you are in, visit my website and schedule an appointment now. I currently see clients M-W-F from 10 am - 7 pm and on weekends 8 am - 12 pm.
Do you or your child need help to get back on track to a satisfying and productive life? I can help! I provide therapy and if agreed upon medication management in low doses for proven results. Together we can make changes that will last a lifetime. If you want to stop the cycle that you are in, visit my website and schedule an appointment now. I currently see clients M-W-F from 10 am - 7 pm and on weekends 8 am - 12 pm.
(330) 878-3638 View (330) 878-3638
Photo of Terri Mcnatt, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Terri Mcnatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44307
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 20 years of experience in mental health care. I possess a strong background in nursing and a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients through evidence-based practice and empathetic care.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 20 years of experience in mental health care. I possess a strong background in nursing and a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients through evidence-based practice and empathetic care.
(234) 602-4495 View (234) 602-4495
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44305
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. 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 accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (330) 222-3512 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. 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 accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (330) 222-3512 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(330) 222-3512 View (330) 222-3512
Photo of Marissa Ragon, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marissa Ragon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44313
Marissa Ragon is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over a decade of experience working in the field of psychiatry and mental health. Marissa completed her undergraduate and graduate degree studies at The University of Akron. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing in 2008, with the intent of becoming a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Marissa graduated with honors in May of year 2013 with a Master of Science degree in Nursing. Her professional clinical practice as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner officially began in July of year 2013.
Marissa Ragon is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over a decade of experience working in the field of psychiatry and mental health. Marissa completed her undergraduate and graduate degree studies at The University of Akron. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing in 2008, with the intent of becoming a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Marissa graduated with honors in May of year 2013 with a Master of Science degree in Nursing. Her professional clinical practice as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner officially began in July of year 2013.
(330) 222-6476 View (330) 222-6476
Photo of Linda Kimble, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Kimble
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Canton, OH 44730  (Online Only)
As a nurse practitioner with many years experience, I strive to provide collaborative care between my client and myself. I focus on listening to my clients and providing supportive care and empathy as well as quality medication management in an effort to help them set realistic goals, understand themselves, and to reach their full mental health potential. I have been a nurse in every level from LPN to MSN to Post Master MSN. I have a very broad educational base and have had experiences in nursing education, hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics as well as several years of telehealth services.
As a nurse practitioner with many years experience, I strive to provide collaborative care between my client and myself. I focus on listening to my clients and providing supportive care and empathy as well as quality medication management in an effort to help them set realistic goals, understand themselves, and to reach their full mental health potential. I have been a nurse in every level from LPN to MSN to Post Master MSN. I have a very broad educational base and have had experiences in nursing education, hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics as well as several years of telehealth services.
(234) 231-8022 View (234) 231-8022
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44301  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych eval and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting many major insurances.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych eval and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting many major insurances.
(330) 222-8501 View (330) 222-8501
Photo of Angela R Combs, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela R Combs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, OH 44718  (Online Only)
Hello! Book with me now through my website! I am a medication provider. I am excited to meet you and looking forward to the opportunity to work with you! I believe care is unique to each person and I believe that you deserve the privacy and respect you want. I know that sometimes it is overwhelming to speak to a new person or to tell your story over and over. I know that there are parts of your story that are not my business to ask. When we meet, I will ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing, how long the symptoms have lasted, and if there is a family history of people with these symptoms. Come as you are, let's talk.
Hello! Book with me now through my website! I am a medication provider. I am excited to meet you and looking forward to the opportunity to work with you! I believe care is unique to each person and I believe that you deserve the privacy and respect you want. I know that sometimes it is overwhelming to speak to a new person or to tell your story over and over. I know that there are parts of your story that are not my business to ask. When we meet, I will ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing, how long the symptoms have lasted, and if there is a family history of people with these symptoms. Come as you are, let's talk.
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Photo of Sara Hong, MD, Psychiatrist
Sara Hong
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44313
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 Amit Mohan - ARC Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
ARC Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Canton, OH 44718  (Online Only)
We believe in positive behavioral health and improving quality of life by evaluating, treating, and managing a variety of mental health conditions. We support our patients through their current life difficulties and alleviate the stress of behavioral health symptoms by offering timely access to individual, holistic, and innovative care.
We believe in positive behavioral health and improving quality of life by evaluating, treating, and managing a variety of mental health conditions. We support our patients through their current life difficulties and alleviate the stress of behavioral health symptoms by offering timely access to individual, holistic, and innovative care.
(216) 208-5303 View (216) 208-5303
Photo of Andrea Balluch-Dean, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrea Balluch-Dean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, OH 44701  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. I presume you found my profile because you are seeking to make a positive change in your life? I applaud your efforts. Taking the first step on your path to wellness is the most important, and for some, the most intimidating. Lets face it, it’s not easy to open up to a total stranger about your mental health needs. That’s why it is important to find a mental health clinician with whom you can connect. A clinician who possesses the qualities and skills essential to developing and growing a therapeutic relationship with you.
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. I presume you found my profile because you are seeking to make a positive change in your life? I applaud your efforts. Taking the first step on your path to wellness is the most important, and for some, the most intimidating. Lets face it, it’s not easy to open up to a total stranger about your mental health needs. That’s why it is important to find a mental health clinician with whom you can connect. A clinician who possesses the qualities and skills essential to developing and growing a therapeutic relationship with you.
(513) 643-1325 View (513) 643-1325
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 Tiffani Gallimore, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffani Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44306  (Online Only)
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
(614) 918-4500 View (614) 918-4500
Photo of Sara Olson-Wiencek, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sara Olson-Wiencek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44312
Hi, I’m Sara Olson-Wiencek, and I’m here to walk alongside you through whatever struggles you’re facing. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my passion lies in creating a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges without judgment. I know that life’s difficulties can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to help you find relief, hope, and healing in ways that feel right for you.
Hi, I’m Sara Olson-Wiencek, and I’m here to walk alongside you through whatever struggles you’re facing. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my passion lies in creating a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges without judgment. I know that life’s difficulties can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to help you find relief, hope, and healing in ways that feel right for you.
(216) 510-9212 View (216) 510-9212
Photo of Candice Wood, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Candice Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44312
I work with clients experiencing a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, anger, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, dementia, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) disorder, and mental health symptoms during recovery from addiction. I offer both in office and telehealth appointments.
I work with clients experiencing a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, anger, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, dementia, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) disorder, and mental health symptoms during recovery from addiction. I offer both in office and telehealth appointments.
(330) 295-2353 View (330) 295-2353

See more therapy options for 44708

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 44708

< 10

Psychiatrists in 44708 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Autism

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 44708 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 44708?

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.