Psychiatrists in 45044

Photo of Fanta Beretay, Psychiatric Nurse
Fanta Beretay
Psychiatric Nurse
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
(513) 496-3565 View (513) 496-3565
Photo of Regina Marie Woodson - Divinity Psychiatric Care, LLC., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Divinity Psychiatric Care, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I take the time to truly listen, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel validated and supported. From medication management to lifestyle adjustments and coping techniques, clients gain actionable tools they can use in daily life. Each session is tailored to their specific needs, ensuring they have a customized care plan that aligns with their goals and lifestyle. Whether struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness/family dynamics, they leave feeling encouraged and ready to take positive steps toward healing.
I take the time to truly listen, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel validated and supported. From medication management to lifestyle adjustments and coping techniques, clients gain actionable tools they can use in daily life. Each session is tailored to their specific needs, ensuring they have a customized care plan that aligns with their goals and lifestyle. Whether struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness/family dynamics, they leave feeling encouraged and ready to take positive steps toward healing.
(513) 640-2741 View (513) 640-2741
Photo of Amanda Hardesty, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Hardesty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.
(937) 860-2525 View (937) 860-2525
Photo of Dr. Cathleen McKnight - Sirona Mental Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, NCMP
Sirona Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, NCMP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight
(513) 866-3753 View (513) 866-3753
Photo of Nafresha Abuaun - Nafresha Abuaun Private Practice LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP, APRN
Nafresha Abuaun Private Practice LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.
(937) 807-3721 View (937) 807-3721
Photo of LaVinda McAuliffe - OwlBridge Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
OwlBridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
(513) 279-8035 View (513) 279-8035
Photo of Dr. Adrienne McCray - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(513) 790-2629 View (513) 790-2629
Photo of Adrienne McCray, Psychiatrist, DO
Adrienne McCray
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.
Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.
(513) 654-6673 View (513) 654-6673

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Marquetta D Colbert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP
Marquetta D Colbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP
Dayton, OH 45415
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
(937) 501-0167 x1 View (937) 501-0167 x1
Photo of Denise Re, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Denise Re
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Blue Ash, OH 45242
Denise Re is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree in advanced practice nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University as a member of The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wright State University. She has practiced nursing since 2005 in inpatient and outpatient settings including medical, psychiatric, and addiction treatment. She believes in working together with patients to help them obtain their optimal level of mental well-being.
Denise Re is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree in advanced practice nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University as a member of The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wright State University. She has practiced nursing since 2005 in inpatient and outpatient settings including medical, psychiatric, and addiction treatment. She believes in working together with patients to help them obtain their optimal level of mental well-being.
(513) 790-6624 View (513) 790-6624
Photo of Erica Stanley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erica Stanley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I’m a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide compassionate, patient-centered mental healthcare with a focus on medication management, complemented by therapeutic techniques to support mental wellness. My approach to mental healthcare is rooted in patient-centered care, where I focus on building trust and understanding each individual’s unique needs, values, and goals. I believe in using a collaborative approach that empowers patients in their mental health journey.
Hello, I’m a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide compassionate, patient-centered mental healthcare with a focus on medication management, complemented by therapeutic techniques to support mental wellness. My approach to mental healthcare is rooted in patient-centered care, where I focus on building trust and understanding each individual’s unique needs, values, and goals. I believe in using a collaborative approach that empowers patients in their mental health journey.
(440) 968-6030 View (440) 968-6030
Photo of Lejeana Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Lejeana Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Centerville, OH 45459
Lejeana Miller is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2004. She is a graduate of Wright State University where she earned her master's degree in Science with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration in 2021. Lejeana has over 15 years of psychiatric experience in areas such as geriatric psychiatry, neurology, adult inpatient acute psychiatry, psychiatric intensive care, community mental health, and addiction.
Lejeana Miller is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2004. She is a graduate of Wright State University where she earned her master's degree in Science with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration in 2021. Lejeana has over 15 years of psychiatric experience in areas such as geriatric psychiatry, neurology, adult inpatient acute psychiatry, psychiatric intensive care, community mental health, and addiction.
(937) 863-9948 View (937) 863-9948
Photo of Christabel Ahenkan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christabel Ahenkan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I pride myself on centering as a holistic mental health provider and strive to support individuals in their journey towards emotional well-being and mental health. My mission is to provide accessible and effective mental health services to all individuals. I believe that everyone has the right to access quality mental health care, and I am committed to making that a reality. I offer services to support individuals in achieving optimal mental health and wellness. Our team of dedicated and experienced mental health professionals is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those in need.
I pride myself on centering as a holistic mental health provider and strive to support individuals in their journey towards emotional well-being and mental health. My mission is to provide accessible and effective mental health services to all individuals. I believe that everyone has the right to access quality mental health care, and I am committed to making that a reality. I offer services to support individuals in achieving optimal mental health and wellness. Our team of dedicated and experienced mental health professionals is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those in need.
(380) 333-5765 View (380) 333-5765
Photo of Tonya Edmondson Nami Board Member - Path of Goodness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Path of Goodness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45211
As a National Alliance Mental Illness (NAMI) board member and partner; 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.
As a National Alliance Mental Illness (NAMI) board member and partner; 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.
(513) 966-5351 View (513) 966-5351
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Mason, OH 45040
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(513) 647-9384 View (513) 647-9384
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Cincinnati, OH 45205
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Janecia King - New Concepts II, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP
New Concepts II, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP
Cincinnati, OH 45251
At New Concepts II, LLC, your privacy, mental well-being, and personal growth are our top priorities. As a dedicated psychiatric and addiction clinic serving Ohio and Kentucky, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. We specialize in diagnosing and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD, empowering you to regain control and find balance. As a women, minority, and veteran-owned practice, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every story matters. Let us help you take the next step toward healing. "Every Story Has a Purpose"
At New Concepts II, LLC, your privacy, mental well-being, and personal growth are our top priorities. As a dedicated psychiatric and addiction clinic serving Ohio and Kentucky, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. We specialize in diagnosing and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD, empowering you to regain control and find balance. As a women, minority, and veteran-owned practice, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every story matters. Let us help you take the next step toward healing. "Every Story Has a Purpose"
(513) 960-6077 View (513) 960-6077
Photo of Hima Kode, Psychiatrist, MD
Hima Kode
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Dr. Kode is a compassionate psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She focuses on personalized care and evidence-based approaches to empower her clients in their journey to mental well-being. They may be grappling with a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. With empathy and expertise, Dr. Kode provides a supportive and safe environment to help individuals achieve their goals.
Dr. Kode is a compassionate psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She focuses on personalized care and evidence-based approaches to empower her clients in their journey to mental well-being. They may be grappling with a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. With empathy and expertise, Dr. Kode provides a supportive and safe environment to help individuals achieve their goals.
(513) 998-7510 View (513) 998-7510
Photo of Dr. Kyra Munzenmaier, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kyra Munzenmaier
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Kyra Munzenmaier is a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care. A graduate of the University of South Florida's College of Medicine and former Chief Resident at St. Luke’s in Pennsylvania, Dr. Munzenmaier brings extensive training and experience in outpatient psychiatry. She particularly enjoys helping individuals dealing with insomnia, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, and medical trauma. As a Perinatal Mental Health-certified expert, she advocates for women’s mental health needs and supports individuals navigating mental health concerns during pregnancy and beyond.
Dr. Kyra Munzenmaier is a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care. A graduate of the University of South Florida's College of Medicine and former Chief Resident at St. Luke’s in Pennsylvania, Dr. Munzenmaier brings extensive training and experience in outpatient psychiatry. She particularly enjoys helping individuals dealing with insomnia, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, and medical trauma. As a Perinatal Mental Health-certified expert, she advocates for women’s mental health needs and supports individuals navigating mental health concerns during pregnancy and beyond.
(267) 478-9043 View (267) 478-9043
Photo of Dr. Reyna Gilmore - A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services, Psychiatrist, MD, LSW, LISW, LPCC, LPCC-S
A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD, LSW, LISW, LPCC, LPCC-S
Mason, OH 45040
We are a faith-based practice. We help individuals with the daily stress of life. This includes the outcome of depression, anxiety, and mood swings
We are a faith-based practice. We help individuals with the daily stress of life. This includes the outcome of depression, anxiety, and mood swings
(513) 815-3229 View (513) 815-3229

See more therapy options for 45044

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45044

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45044 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
88% ADHD
88% Trauma and PTSD
88% Bipolar Disorder
88% Sleep or Insomnia
88% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 45044 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45044?

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.