Psychiatrists in 45002

Photo of Valerie Bath, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valerie Bath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
(812) 739-6493 View (812) 739-6493

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Vincent Bett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vincent Bett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and psychosis, I am dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from the challenges of these mental health conditions. My ideal client often struggles with persistent worry, difficulty focusing, mood fluctuations, or episodes of psychosis and seeks effective support and practical solutions to enhance their quality of life. I offer personalized mental health care that combines medication management with evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to your unique needs.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and psychosis, I am dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from the challenges of these mental health conditions. My ideal client often struggles with persistent worry, difficulty focusing, mood fluctuations, or episodes of psychosis and seeks effective support and practical solutions to enhance their quality of life. I offer personalized mental health care that combines medication management with evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to your unique needs.
(380) 234-2931 View (380) 234-2931
Photo of Dr. Adam Rowe, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Adam Rowe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My interests and expertise are in general adult psychiatric medicine, with a special focus on helping patients navigate depression, anxiety, OCD, and issues related to LGBTQ+ culture. I provide management of prescription medications along with supportive psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy in every session.
My interests and expertise are in general adult psychiatric medicine, with a special focus on helping patients navigate depression, anxiety, OCD, and issues related to LGBTQ+ culture. I provide management of prescription medications along with supportive psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy in every session.
(513) 450-2527 View (513) 450-2527
Photo of Keshia Nichole Jordan, CNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keshia Nichole Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, OH 45011
At Most Hope Treatment Center, we will help our clients with their mental health and addiction needs by providing convenient, compassionate, care and making their success the number one priority at our practice.
At Most Hope Treatment Center, we will help our clients with their mental health and addiction needs by providing convenient, compassionate, care and making their success the number one priority at our practice.
(513) 654-6327 View (513) 654-6327
Photo of Fanta Beretay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fanta Beretay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Is your anxiety , depression,ADHD or mood swings preventing you from living a fulfilling life and or accomplishing your personal/relationship goals? I assist individuals with managing their anxiety/depression/mood/ADHD /ADD with medication treatment options based on a combination of mental health treatment guidelines and my expertise that are proven to be effective. With over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings
Is your anxiety , depression,ADHD or mood swings preventing you from living a fulfilling life and or accomplishing your personal/relationship goals? I assist individuals with managing their anxiety/depression/mood/ADHD /ADD with medication treatment options based on a combination of mental health treatment guidelines and my expertise that are proven to be effective. With over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings
(380) 233-4303 View (380) 233-4303
Photo of Emily Bush, APRN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
Hi, I’m Emily Bush, a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I believe that truly understanding my patients is key to helping them heal. That's why I take extra time to get to know each of my patients, learning their unique stories, needs, and concerns.
Hi, I’m Emily Bush, a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I believe that truly understanding my patients is key to helping them heal. That's why I take extra time to get to know each of my patients, learning their unique stories, needs, and concerns.
(513) 279-8035 View (513) 279-8035
Photo of Amber Whitlatch, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber Whitlatch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Online Only
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat all mental health conditions for those 18 years and older, ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also specialize in trauma and integrative psychiatry. I am a trained crisis counselor, SAFE-EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). After graduating from UC, I completed a residency in geriatric psychiatry, eventually created a dementia support program, now a part of the CMS Guide model in Ohio.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat all mental health conditions for those 18 years and older, ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also specialize in trauma and integrative psychiatry. I am a trained crisis counselor, SAFE-EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). After graduating from UC, I completed a residency in geriatric psychiatry, eventually created a dementia support program, now a part of the CMS Guide model in Ohio.
(786) 981-0204 View (786) 981-0204
Photo of Vincent Bett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vincent Bett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, OH 45150
Vincent is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep passion for improving mental health outcomes. I specialized in mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Opiod use Disorders.
Vincent is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep passion for improving mental health outcomes. I specialized in mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Opiod use Disorders.
(419) 928-5145 View (419) 928-5145
Photo of Edwina R Zettler, MD, Psychiatrist
Edwina R Zettler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, OH 45014
I am an Adult Psychiatrist with a focus in addiction. Having worked 20 years in mental health and over 14 years in addiction, I am especially equipped to understand your unique experience. I provide comprehensive care by addressing not only your addiction but also any accompanying mental health issues. My practice is small, quiet and very confidential. You will NOT be treated like a "number" in a big box clinic. Your treatment will be individualized and specific to you. Therapy combined with medications such as Suboxone can help you to rebuild your life and live joyfully.
I am an Adult Psychiatrist with a focus in addiction. Having worked 20 years in mental health and over 14 years in addiction, I am especially equipped to understand your unique experience. I provide comprehensive care by addressing not only your addiction but also any accompanying mental health issues. My practice is small, quiet and very confidential. You will NOT be treated like a "number" in a big box clinic. Your treatment will be individualized and specific to you. Therapy combined with medications such as Suboxone can help you to rebuild your life and live joyfully.
(513) 496-3604 View (513) 496-3604
Photo of Elizabeth Fox, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I am now practicing at Sirona Mental Wellness! New and existing patients can call (513) 991-7007 today to be placed on my schedule. Please leave a message with best times to be called back to avoid the phone tag :) Mental health is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone deserves to have their unique needs heard and validated. If you're experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, or struggling with focus, attention, or motivation, I'm here to offer support. My goal is to help you achieve yours.
I am now practicing at Sirona Mental Wellness! New and existing patients can call (513) 991-7007 today to be placed on my schedule. Please leave a message with best times to be called back to avoid the phone tag :) Mental health is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone deserves to have their unique needs heard and validated. If you're experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, or struggling with focus, attention, or motivation, I'm here to offer support. My goal is to help you achieve yours.
(513) 991-7007 View (513) 991-7007
Photo of Dr. Cleopatra Enakhena, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Cleopatra Enakhena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you an individual needing treatment for a mental health disorder? then, you are in the right Place. I serve a large population of mental health individuals. I am very passionate about providing the best care, including participating in the development of a safe and healthy environment that is people friendly and free of stigma's. I am compassionate, caring, empathetic, and a good listener. My goal is to keep utilizing my advanced skills to improve mental health and wellness in the society.
Are you an individual needing treatment for a mental health disorder? then, you are in the right Place. I serve a large population of mental health individuals. I am very passionate about providing the best care, including participating in the development of a safe and healthy environment that is people friendly and free of stigma's. I am compassionate, caring, empathetic, and a good listener. My goal is to keep utilizing my advanced skills to improve mental health and wellness in the society.
(513) 951-7379 View (513) 951-7379
Photo of Julia Shakh - Infinity Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Infinity Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Ash, OH 45242
Currently serving individuals in NY, OH, WI via Telepsychiatric services. We believe the key to wellness is partnering with a physician who can ally themselves with the patient in order to empower and guide the individual to create positive change in their life. We strive to eliminate the obstacles many individuals face when making the decision to seek psychiatric care. Using videoconferencing you can be seen in your own home, ensuring privacy and expanding accessibility. We cater to busy professionals and offer non-traditional and expanded office hours for your convenience. To get started, visit: InfinityPsychiatry.org
Currently serving individuals in NY, OH, WI via Telepsychiatric services. We believe the key to wellness is partnering with a physician who can ally themselves with the patient in order to empower and guide the individual to create positive change in their life. We strive to eliminate the obstacles many individuals face when making the decision to seek psychiatric care. Using videoconferencing you can be seen in your own home, ensuring privacy and expanding accessibility. We cater to busy professionals and offer non-traditional and expanded office hours for your convenience. To get started, visit: InfinityPsychiatry.org
(513) 817-0054 View (513) 817-0054
Photo of Obed Anya, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Obed Anya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45071
Patient with mental health problems like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD or patients having difficulties adjusting with various changes worry about being listened to or understood. These patients are going through a lot in life and they deserve to be heard.
Patient with mental health problems like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD or patients having difficulties adjusting with various changes worry about being listened to or understood. These patients are going through a lot in life and they deserve to be heard.
(513) 951-5637 View (513) 951-5637
Photo of Tiffani Michelle Gallimore, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffani Michelle Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
(937) 880-3710 View (937) 880-3710
Photo of Pamela Pardon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Pardon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Pamela D. Pardõn is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and sole proprietor of Pearls of Wisdom Psychiatric Services LLC, established in August 2019, located in Lorain, Ohio. Pamela began her nursing career as an LPN, eventually earning a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing across the lifespan at Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Pamela has been a nurse for over 40 years. Pamela has delivered psychiatric care to individuals on inpatient and outpatient behavioral health units, provided support to callers on the 24-hour Crisis Hotline Services, and served as a team member of a community mental
Pamela D. Pardõn is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and sole proprietor of Pearls of Wisdom Psychiatric Services LLC, established in August 2019, located in Lorain, Ohio. Pamela began her nursing career as an LPN, eventually earning a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing across the lifespan at Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Pamela has been a nurse for over 40 years. Pamela has delivered psychiatric care to individuals on inpatient and outpatient behavioral health units, provided support to callers on the 24-hour Crisis Hotline Services, and served as a team member of a community mental
(380) 220-7292 View (380) 220-7292
Photo of Christina Dine, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Dine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Blue Ash, OH 45242
Not accepting new clients
I’m here to help you break through the barriers that have been holding you back so you can step into the bold, beautiful life you’re meant to live. With over a decade of experience in psychiatric nursing and addiction counseling, I’ve dedicated my career to guiding individuals like you on their journey toward healing and empowerment. My approach goes beyond just managing symptoms; it’s about addressing the root causes of your struggles and working together to create a path forward that honors your unique story.
I’m here to help you break through the barriers that have been holding you back so you can step into the bold, beautiful life you’re meant to live. With over a decade of experience in psychiatric nursing and addiction counseling, I’ve dedicated my career to guiding individuals like you on their journey toward healing and empowerment. My approach goes beyond just managing symptoms; it’s about addressing the root causes of your struggles and working together to create a path forward that honors your unique story.
(513) 848-5899 View (513) 848-5899
Photo of Christopher Smith, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a dual licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) and Family Medicine (FNP). Prior to my work in psychiatry, I spent over 10 years working in a mix of emergency medicine, trauma care, urgent care and covering for primary care providers. I understand what it means to work in high stress, high demand environments. I believe in addressing mental health with the same level of focus and detail that the most complex physical health conditions require.
I am a dual licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) and Family Medicine (FNP). Prior to my work in psychiatry, I spent over 10 years working in a mix of emergency medicine, trauma care, urgent care and covering for primary care providers. I understand what it means to work in high stress, high demand environments. I believe in addressing mental health with the same level of focus and detail that the most complex physical health conditions require.
(380) 666-8774 View (380) 666-8774
Photo of Jasmine Shafto, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jasmine Shafto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Milford, OH 45150
Welcome to my practice! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and community behavioral healthcare settings. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar, etc, providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and medication management. My scope of practice includes individuals 13 years of age and older. I am licensed in Ohio and Kentucky.
Welcome to my practice! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of experience in inpatient, outpatient, and community behavioral healthcare settings. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar, etc, providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and medication management. My scope of practice includes individuals 13 years of age and older. I am licensed in Ohio and Kentucky.
Photo of Bianca Sidoti, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bianca Sidoti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45229
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Bianca and I'm a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach as a provider is patient-centered as I strive to meet your needs while ensuring your autonomy. I'm dedicated to helping you take back your mental health, while providing a judgement-free experience and compassionate care. As a nurse by trade, I bring a unique perspective to our sessions, focusing on not just your mental well-being but also how it intertwines with your overall health.
Hello! My name is Bianca and I'm a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach as a provider is patient-centered as I strive to meet your needs while ensuring your autonomy. I'm dedicated to helping you take back your mental health, while providing a judgement-free experience and compassionate care. As a nurse by trade, I bring a unique perspective to our sessions, focusing on not just your mental well-being but also how it intertwines with your overall health.
(937) 870-3497 View (937) 870-3497
Photo of Stephanie Tate, PhD, APRNCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Tate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRNCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202
I believe in meeting clients where they are and helping them get to where they want to be.
I believe in meeting clients where they are and helping them get to where they want to be.
(234) 516-3874 View (234) 516-3874

See more therapy options for 45002

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45002

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45002 who prioritize treating:

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

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Medicaid
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 45002 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 45002?

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.