Psychiatrists in 45056

Photo of Gerald Makobong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Oxford, OH 45056
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
(380) 208-1756 View (380) 208-1756
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Oxford, OH 45056
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(614) 683-4245 View (614) 683-4245
Photo of Paul J Schwartz, Psychiatrist, MD
Paul J Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, and psychoanalyst who has received my clinical and psychopharmacology training at Yale University, the National Institute of Mental Health, the VA Medical Center, and the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute. I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. If you are having serious difficulties with your mental health, call me.
I am a psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, and psychoanalyst who has received my clinical and psychopharmacology training at Yale University, the National Institute of Mental Health, the VA Medical Center, and the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute. I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. If you are having serious difficulties with your mental health, call me.
(513) 770-1209 View (513) 770-1209
Photo of Daniel S. Hardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMGT-BC
Daniel S. Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMGT-BC
Serves Area
Most of my clients are queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled. They may seek help with transition concerns, psychiatric medication, identifying/confirming a diagnosis, or overall support for living in a society that's a poor fit. Whatever their need, they're seeking someone comfortable with the diversity of experiences that our identities bring and how these intersect in the USA in 2025. It can sometimes be a challenge to find a provider who understands the difference between being labeled by others and having an identity label to better understand ourselves by.
Most of my clients are queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled. They may seek help with transition concerns, psychiatric medication, identifying/confirming a diagnosis, or overall support for living in a society that's a poor fit. Whatever their need, they're seeking someone comfortable with the diversity of experiences that our identities bring and how these intersect in the USA in 2025. It can sometimes be a challenge to find a provider who understands the difference between being labeled by others and having an identity label to better understand ourselves by.
(513) 845-3284 View (513) 845-3284

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Drew Pittman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Drew Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently offering same week telehealth appointments for new patients in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
Currently offering same week telehealth appointments for new patients in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
(508) 960-7059 View (508) 960-7059
Photo of Jeremy Carpenter, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeremy Carpenter
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Dr. Carpenter has more than 15 years of experience in psychiatry, treating a wide variety of conditions, including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and Trauma. He earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. where he completed additional training in Health Policy and Advocacy. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus. He also has completed extensive education and certification in addiction medicine.
Dr. Carpenter has more than 15 years of experience in psychiatry, treating a wide variety of conditions, including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and Trauma. He earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. where he completed additional training in Health Policy and Advocacy. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus. He also has completed extensive education and certification in addiction medicine.
(513) 654-6256 View (513) 654-6256
Photo of Arnold G Shapiro, Psychiatrist, MD
Arnold G Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45236
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I've been in private practice in OH and KY for many years. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of ADHD, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression. My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them and their families. I am proud to treat my patients who started as patients when they were children, who now also bring their children to me for treatment.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I've been in private practice in OH and KY for many years. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of ADHD, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression. My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them and their families. I am proud to treat my patients who started as patients when they were children, who now also bring their children to me for treatment.
(513) 450-8296 View (513) 450-8296
Photo of Vincent Bett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vincent Bett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
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 Kristi Bates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Kristi Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Having an serious mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.
Having an serious mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.
(812) 472-6048 View (812) 472-6048
Photo of Magdalene Edo - Calvary Family and Mental health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Calvary Family and Mental health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Maggie. A seasoned Psychiatry mental health Nurse Practitioner. Feel free to reach out to me if you or your loved ones are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, sleeping disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, addiction, or low self-esteem. I Possess extensive knowledge about mental health and the challenges it poses to our daily lives.
Hello, I’m Maggie. A seasoned Psychiatry mental health Nurse Practitioner. Feel free to reach out to me if you or your loved ones are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, sleeping disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, addiction, or low self-esteem. I Possess extensive knowledge about mental health and the challenges it poses to our daily lives.
(614) 414-3620 View (614) 414-3620
Photo of Valerie Puffenberger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Valerie Puffenberger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. Areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and dual diagnosis.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. Areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and dual diagnosis.
(440) 379-8318 View (440) 379-8318
Photo of Amy Buschur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amy Buschur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Many people struggle with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or OCD, and may feel overwhelmed by their journey. You might be looking for a compassionate professional who can help you navigate these struggles with support and understanding. Your goal is to regain balance, find peace, and improve overall wellness. You want a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs—whether through medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches—so you can lead a fulfilling life.
Many people struggle with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or OCD, and may feel overwhelmed by their journey. You might be looking for a compassionate professional who can help you navigate these struggles with support and understanding. Your goal is to regain balance, find peace, and improve overall wellness. You want a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs—whether through medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches—so you can lead a fulfilling life.
(513) 951-8741 View (513) 951-8741
Photo of Dr. Tamera Kim Meyer, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tamera Kim Meyer
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45219
I am here to assist with improving your mental health so that you can reach your full potential in life. Unlike other mental health practices, I am always accessible to my patients. I offer in-person and telehealth services to accommodate patient needs. I practice general psychiatry and addiction medicine for patients 13 years of age and older.
I am here to assist with improving your mental health so that you can reach your full potential in life. Unlike other mental health practices, I am always accessible to my patients. I offer in-person and telehealth services to accommodate patient needs. I practice general psychiatry and addiction medicine for patients 13 years of age and older.
(513) 902-3227 View (513) 902-3227
Photo of Sara Rose Armentano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, CNP
Sara Rose Armentano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, CNP
Cincinnati, OH 45208
We are all unique. There is not one specific course of treatment that is right for everyone. While following best practice guidelines and the most recent evidence based research, I strive to practice with a focus on holistic, client-centered care to improve your mental health. While I do specialize in medication management, we will explore non pharmacologic possibilities too. You will feel heard.
We are all unique. There is not one specific course of treatment that is right for everyone. While following best practice guidelines and the most recent evidence based research, I strive to practice with a focus on holistic, client-centered care to improve your mental health. While I do specialize in medication management, we will explore non pharmacologic possibilities too. You will feel heard.
(937) 888-2488 x1 View (937) 888-2488 x1
Photo of Jae Kennedy-Cookson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Jae Kennedy-Cookson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Please Note: I do not prescribe any controlled medications, which includes medications like Adderall and Valium. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is strongly committed to promoting the well-being, dignity, and autonomy of those receiving psychiatric care, while also emphasizing compassion, empathy, and respect for their individual needs and preferences. Central to my philosophy of care is the recognition of the unique value and worth of each person, as well as a dedication to fostering trusting and collaborative relationships that empower individuals to achieve their highest level of health and wellness.
Please Note: I do not prescribe any controlled medications, which includes medications like Adderall and Valium. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is strongly committed to promoting the well-being, dignity, and autonomy of those receiving psychiatric care, while also emphasizing compassion, empathy, and respect for their individual needs and preferences. Central to my philosophy of care is the recognition of the unique value and worth of each person, as well as a dedication to fostering trusting and collaborative relationships that empower individuals to achieve their highest level of health and wellness.
(419) 928-5150 View (419) 928-5150
Photo of Shannon Bailey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RN
Shannon Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RN
Fairfield, OH 45014
Hi, I’m Shannon. As an Emergency Department nurse for seven years, I became passionate about caring for each individual on a more personal level. Wanting this connection with my patients, along with having experienced personal and family mental health concerns of my own, led me to pursue my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Northern Kentucky University. During my educational pursuits, my desire to provide mental health care across the lifespan in areas of need including anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders and substance use disorders came to the forefront.
Hi, I’m Shannon. As an Emergency Department nurse for seven years, I became passionate about caring for each individual on a more personal level. Wanting this connection with my patients, along with having experienced personal and family mental health concerns of my own, led me to pursue my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Northern Kentucky University. During my educational pursuits, my desire to provide mental health care across the lifespan in areas of need including anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders and substance use disorders came to the forefront.
(513) 957-2758 View (513) 957-2758
Photo of Steven Reedy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, CCTP, NATC
Steven Reedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, CCTP, NATC
Online Only
As a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring ideals from both the medical and nursing models of care in a holistic approach. In doing so, this allows me to care for you with compassion, as a whole person and with the latest evidenced-based practices. I specialize in the treatment of emotional abuse and narcissistic abuse. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your goals in treatment.
As a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring ideals from both the medical and nursing models of care in a holistic approach. In doing so, this allows me to care for you with compassion, as a whole person and with the latest evidenced-based practices. I specialize in the treatment of emotional abuse and narcissistic abuse. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your goals in treatment.
(614) 762-9859 View (614) 762-9859
Photo of Dr. Gihan Abdel Razik, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Gihan Abdel Razik
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr Razik is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over 20 years. Throughout her career she has helped thousands of patients overcome their mental health struggles though medication management and a combination of supportive and psychodynamic psychotherapy. She graduated from Ain Shams University School of Medicine in 1992 and went on to do her psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after which she became board-certified.
Dr Razik is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over 20 years. Throughout her career she has helped thousands of patients overcome their mental health struggles though medication management and a combination of supportive and psychodynamic psychotherapy. She graduated from Ain Shams University School of Medicine in 1992 and went on to do her psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after which she became board-certified.
(513) 496-0340 View (513) 496-0340
Photo of Paul Myers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Paul Myers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Blue Ash, OH 45242
Paul M Myers holds a BS in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati, a MSN from Xavier University and an ANP from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He was certified as an ANCC Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing in 2012. He has practiced as a psychiatric nurse clinician and manager in psychiatric hospitals and correctional facilities. He has been working in a research facility and providing outpatient care specializing in Schizophrenia, Bipolar and ADHD. He has been an educator in undergraduate psychiatric nursing programs and as a psychotherapist. He loves to travel with his husband and family/friends.
Paul M Myers holds a BS in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati, a MSN from Xavier University and an ANP from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He was certified as an ANCC Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing in 2012. He has practiced as a psychiatric nurse clinician and manager in psychiatric hospitals and correctional facilities. He has been working in a research facility and providing outpatient care specializing in Schizophrenia, Bipolar and ADHD. He has been an educator in undergraduate psychiatric nursing programs and as a psychotherapist. He loves to travel with his husband and family/friends.
(513) 643-2216 View (513) 643-2216
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

See more therapy options for 45056

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45056

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45056 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
75% Depression
75% ADHD
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Sleep or Insomnia
50% Addiction

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 45056 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45056?

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.