Psychiatrists in 45039

Photo of Kylie Wester, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kylie Wester
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Maineville, OH 45039
Kylie works with adults who are tired of feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in survival mode. Many of her clients have tried to “just deal with it,” but know something needs to change. She helps people sort through symptoms, understand what may be driving them, and create a treatment plan that actually fits real life.
Kylie works with adults who are tired of feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in survival mode. Many of her clients have tried to “just deal with it,” but know something needs to change. She helps people sort through symptoms, understand what may be driving them, and create a treatment plan that actually fits real life.
(513) 957-2809 View (513) 957-2809
Photo of Amber Whitlatch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Amber Whitlatch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
16 Endorsed
Maineville, OH 45039
I help those seeking a deeper, lasting approach to mental health—someone who may have tried medication or therapy before but hasn’t found the right fit. They struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, or mood instability and want a provider who sees them as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. They are looking for a balance of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to feel better, regain control, and build resilience. Their goal is to heal, grow, and feel empowered in their mental health journey, using both science and holistic strategies to create real, sustainable change.
I help those seeking a deeper, lasting approach to mental health—someone who may have tried medication or therapy before but hasn’t found the right fit. They struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, or mood instability and want a provider who sees them as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. They are looking for a balance of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to feel better, regain control, and build resilience. Their goal is to heal, grow, and feel empowered in their mental health journey, using both science and holistic strategies to create real, sustainable change.
(513) 957-2809 View (513) 957-2809
Photo of Dr. Bakhtier Hasan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bakhtier Hasan
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Bakhtier is particularly passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital and those involved in court-ordered treatment. He understands that these transitions can feel overwhelming and require close clinical attention, structure, and consistency. His work in this area focuses on stabilization, medication optimization, and helping patients regain a sense of safety, autonomy, and direction during critical periods of recovery. In his broader practice, Dr.Dr. Bakhtier is particularly passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hosp
Dr. Bakhtier is particularly passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital and those involved in court-ordered treatment. He understands that these transitions can feel overwhelming and require close clinical attention, structure, and consistency. His work in this area focuses on stabilization, medication optimization, and helping patients regain a sense of safety, autonomy, and direction during critical periods of recovery. In his broader practice, Dr.Dr. Bakhtier is particularly passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hosp
(513) 756-2688 View (513) 756-2688
Photo of Dr. Rohan Patel, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Rohan Patel
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related conditions. His comprehensive understanding of both medicine and mental health allows him to address the mind-body connection, ensuring that treatment plans are both holistic and effective. He strives to create a collaborative environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their care. In his work, Dr. Patel is also passionate about helping individuals manage psychiatric symptoms related to medical conditions and life transitions.Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and a
Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related conditions. His comprehensive understanding of both medicine and mental health allows him to address the mind-body connection, ensuring that treatment plans are both holistic and effective. He strives to create a collaborative environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their care. In his work, Dr. Patel is also passionate about helping individuals manage psychiatric symptoms related to medical conditions and life transitions.Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and a
(513) 935-2075 View (513) 935-2075
Angela Brandt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Serves Area
Angela is especially passionate about supporting those affected by ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complex ways these conditions can impact daily life, relationships, and self-esteem, and she takes a compassionate, clinically informed approach to care. By integrating evidence-based tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness strategies into her medication management sessions, Angela helps patients build coping skills while managing their symptoms effectively.
Angela is especially passionate about supporting those affected by ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complex ways these conditions can impact daily life, relationships, and self-esteem, and she takes a compassionate, clinically informed approach to care. By integrating evidence-based tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness strategies into her medication management sessions, Angela helps patients build coping skills while managing their symptoms effectively.
(513) 224-6969 View (513) 224-6969
Photo of Mary Grace Tirey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Mary Grace Tirey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Grace has a strong clinical focus on ADHD, anxiety, and depression, helping patients manage symptoms that affect focus, mood, sleep, and overall quality of life. She provides medication management for complex mental health conditions and incorporates evidence-based approaches informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) principles to support insight, emotional regulation, and healthier coping strategies. In addition to these core areas, she offers care for a wide range of mental health concerns, including substance use disorders through medication-assisted treatment.Grace has a strong clinica
Grace has a strong clinical focus on ADHD, anxiety, and depression, helping patients manage symptoms that affect focus, mood, sleep, and overall quality of life. She provides medication management for complex mental health conditions and incorporates evidence-based approaches informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) principles to support insight, emotional regulation, and healthier coping strategies. In addition to these core areas, she offers care for a wide range of mental health concerns, including substance use disorders through medication-assisted treatment.Grace has a strong clinica
(513) 960-3698 View (513) 960-3698
Photo of Lillie Quarles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lillie Quarles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Lillie Quarles is a specialist in mental health caring for the adult patients with mental health needs at LifeStance in Mason Ohio. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Cincinnati. She received her master's degree from Excelsior College in New York. She received her post graduate certificate from Indian Weslyland University. She is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She has cared for the mental health adult population in both in-patient hospitals and out-patient practice.
Lillie Quarles is a specialist in mental health caring for the adult patients with mental health needs at LifeStance in Mason Ohio. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Cincinnati. She received her master's degree from Excelsior College in New York. She received her post graduate certificate from Indian Weslyland University. She is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She has cared for the mental health adult population in both in-patient hospitals and out-patient practice.
(513) 756-8762 View (513) 756-8762
Photo of Judy Murua, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Judy Murua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in mental health across the lifespan. My approach to mental health is rooted in a holistic and patient-centered philosophy. I believe in integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that impact mental health.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in mental health across the lifespan. My approach to mental health is rooted in a holistic and patient-centered philosophy. I believe in integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that impact mental health.
(440) 586-4130 View (440) 586-4130
Photo of Arrey Eyongherok, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Arrey Eyongherok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Arrey! I'm a mental health professional dedicated to supporting clients through life's challenges. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I work collaboratively with clients, drawing on evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs. Together we'll identify patterns, build on your strengths, and develop practical strategies for lasting change.
Hi there, I'm Arrey! I'm a mental health professional dedicated to supporting clients through life's challenges. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I work collaboratively with clients, drawing on evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs. Together we'll identify patterns, build on your strengths, and develop practical strategies for lasting change.
(440) 588-3127 View (440) 588-3127

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Trevor Shelton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Trevor Shelton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Dayton, OH 45458
Trevor Shelton, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2024. He has worked in psychiatry since 2018 in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Trevor takes a collaborative, judgment-free approach, meeting clients where they are and working together to build personalized, effective treatment plans. He integrates supportive therapy into each session. Outside of work, Trevor enjoys traveling, video games, hiking, sports, and coffee.
Trevor Shelton, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2024. He has worked in psychiatry since 2018 in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Trevor takes a collaborative, judgment-free approach, meeting clients where they are and working together to build personalized, effective treatment plans. He integrates supportive therapy into each session. Outside of work, Trevor enjoys traveling, video games, hiking, sports, and coffee.
(937) 761-3473 View (937) 761-3473
Photo of Emmanuel Nji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Emmanuel Nji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
My name is Dr. Emmanuel Nji, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and five years of outstanding clinical experience. I am the founder of Gateway Psychiatric Services, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Chilicothe, Ohio, where I am dedicated to providing compassionate, whole-person psychiatric care to adults ready to reclaim their mental health and their lives.
My name is Dr. Emmanuel Nji, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and five years of outstanding clinical experience. I am the founder of Gateway Psychiatric Services, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Chilicothe, Ohio, where I am dedicated to providing compassionate, whole-person psychiatric care to adults ready to reclaim their mental health and their lives.
(740) 873-6928 View (740) 873-6928
Photo of Emily Freimuth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Emily Freimuth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Blue Ash, OH 45242
In her practice, Emily serves a diverse population, including first responders, the LGBTQ+ community, military personnel, and veterans. Her dedication to providing inclusive and respectful care ensures that all patients feel understood and valued. Emily's ability to connect with her patients and provide tailored interventions, such as parenting skills, further enhances her effectiveness as a mental health provider. Emily's commitment to her patients extends beyond the clinical setting. She is dedicated to helping individuals with issues such as PTSD/trauma, women's issues, and sleep disorders/insomnia.
In her practice, Emily serves a diverse population, including first responders, the LGBTQ+ community, military personnel, and veterans. Her dedication to providing inclusive and respectful care ensures that all patients feel understood and valued. Emily's ability to connect with her patients and provide tailored interventions, such as parenting skills, further enhances her effectiveness as a mental health provider. Emily's commitment to her patients extends beyond the clinical setting. She is dedicated to helping individuals with issues such as PTSD/trauma, women's issues, and sleep disorders/insomnia.
(513) 995-6535 View (513) 995-6535
Photo of Tonya Edmondson - Path of Goodness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Path of Goodness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45211
As a Non profit partner in Ohio; My treatment Philosophy is to build rapport, strengthen patients, families, and restore the communities. My treatment goal is geared toward patient-centered goals. I am committed to serving people of all cultures and ages across the lifespan starting age 6 years old to Geriatric population. I take great pride in improving both mental and physical health for the targeted population. I offer preceptorship for upcoming psych nurse practitioner students.
As a Non profit partner in Ohio; My treatment Philosophy is to build rapport, strengthen patients, families, and restore the communities. My treatment goal is geared toward patient-centered goals. I am committed to serving people of all cultures and ages across the lifespan starting age 6 years old to Geriatric population. I take great pride in improving both mental and physical health for the targeted population. I offer preceptorship for upcoming psych nurse practitioner students.
(513) 966-5351 View (513) 966-5351
Aneiis Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Franklin, OH 45005
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique mental health needs. My practice is grounded in clinical expertise and a deep respect for the personal nature of mental health, offering thoughtful diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique mental health needs. My practice is grounded in clinical expertise and a deep respect for the personal nature of mental health, offering thoughtful diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD.
(661) 762-4636 View (661) 762-4636
Photo of Darshan Singh, Psychiatrist, MD
Darshan Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Kettering, OH 45409
Dr. Singh has multiple years of practice experience and specializes in child psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Singh is board certified and treats a wide range of mental health disorders. Based on years of experience he helps decrease and/or alleviate symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, compulsive disorders, etc.
Dr. Singh has multiple years of practice experience and specializes in child psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Singh is board certified and treats a wide range of mental health disorders. Based on years of experience he helps decrease and/or alleviate symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, compulsive disorders, etc.
(937) 533-4636 View (937) 533-4636
Photo of Charla Jones, Psychiatrist, MD
Charla Jones
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45242
At TrustCare Physicians, I offer personalized mental health support for those navigating demanding roles—whether leading in high-pressure careers, managing family life, or balancing both. I understand that challenges don’t always arrive as a crisis; they often show up quietly, as fatigue, loss of focus, or a fading sense of joy. My approach is thoughtful and holistic, blending clinical expertise with genuine connection. Together, we work to restore balance, strengthen resilience, and help you reconnect with a sense of clarity and well-being.
At TrustCare Physicians, I offer personalized mental health support for those navigating demanding roles—whether leading in high-pressure careers, managing family life, or balancing both. I understand that challenges don’t always arrive as a crisis; they often show up quietly, as fatigue, loss of focus, or a fading sense of joy. My approach is thoughtful and holistic, blending clinical expertise with genuine connection. Together, we work to restore balance, strengthen resilience, and help you reconnect with a sense of clarity and well-being.
(513) 951-5159 View (513) 951-5159
Photo of Cara Mueller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cara Mueller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cincinnati, OH 45242
If you’ve been struggling with anxiety, burnout, difficulty focusing, mood changes, or feeling unlike yourself lately, you may be wondering whether medication could help—or whether there’s a better approach than what you’ve tried before. I’d love to help. I provide personalized medication management for adolescents and adults in the greater Cincinnati area.
If you’ve been struggling with anxiety, burnout, difficulty focusing, mood changes, or feeling unlike yourself lately, you may be wondering whether medication could help—or whether there’s a better approach than what you’ve tried before. I’d love to help. I provide personalized medication management for adolescents and adults in the greater Cincinnati area.
(513) 998-5610 View (513) 998-5610
Photo of Elihu L Godshalk, Psychiatrist, MD
Elihu L Godshalk
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45219
My practice is focused on helping people with substance use and other mental health problems. Board certified in both adult psychiatry and addiction psychiatry, I believe people benefit most when high quality therapy is combined with evidence-based medication management, including naltrexone and buprenorphine for patients who struggle with opioid addiction. The doctor-patient relationship is central to my treatment philosophy, and I provide care in a warm and accepting environment.
My practice is focused on helping people with substance use and other mental health problems. Board certified in both adult psychiatry and addiction psychiatry, I believe people benefit most when high quality therapy is combined with evidence-based medication management, including naltrexone and buprenorphine for patients who struggle with opioid addiction. The doctor-patient relationship is central to my treatment philosophy, and I provide care in a warm and accepting environment.
(513) 449-2485 View (513) 449-2485
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, Psychiatrist, MD
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45202
book online at virtualpsych. com VirtualPsych allows for telepsychiatry healthcare remotely from your phone from the convenience of your home. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We're committed to helping you find the right treatment plan that fits your needs.
book online at virtualpsych. com VirtualPsych allows for telepsychiatry healthcare remotely from your phone from the convenience of your home. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We're committed to helping you find the right treatment plan that fits your needs.
(513) 540-2851 View (513) 540-2851
Photo of Sharon Arabi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Sharon Arabi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Blue Ash, OH 45242
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Sharon is trained in medication management and psychotherapy, providing holistic treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs. She is also certified in Christian Counseling for those seeking faith-integrated therapy. In addition to individual therapy, Sharon offers family therapy and utilizes evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to promote positive coping skills and emotional well-being. Her goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges and work towards meaningful healing and growth.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Sharon is trained in medication management and psychotherapy, providing holistic treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs. She is also certified in Christian Counseling for those seeking faith-integrated therapy. In addition to individual therapy, Sharon offers family therapy and utilizes evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to promote positive coping skills and emotional well-being. Her goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges and work towards meaningful healing and growth.
(513) 450-7538 View (513) 450-7538

See more therapy options for 45039

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45039

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45039 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
78% Grief
67% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Optum
100% Carelon Behavioral Health

How Psychiatrists in 45039 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45039?

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.