Psychiatrists in 45069

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.

Nne graduated from The Ohio State University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. She is board-certified in psychiatry by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and a certified Clinical Nurse Leader. Nne has over fifteen years of healthcare experience as a critical/acute care nurse at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, clinical instructor, and psychiatric mental health service provider.
Nne graduated from The Ohio State University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. She is board-certified in psychiatry by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and a certified Clinical Nurse Leader. Nne has over fifteen years of healthcare experience as a critical/acute care nurse at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, clinical instructor, and psychiatric mental health service provider.

C Todd Anderson
Psychiatrist, M D
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Anderson, a graduate of the University Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio School of Medicine, completed his psychiatric residency at Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center/Scott & White Hospital, where he served as both chief resident of psychiatry, as well as the house staff president. He served in the U. S. Air Force, where he earned his wings as a flight surgeon and served in numerous leadership roles, including squadron command.
Dr. Anderson, a graduate of the University Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio School of Medicine, completed his psychiatric residency at Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center/Scott & White Hospital, where he served as both chief resident of psychiatry, as well as the house staff president. He served in the U. S. Air Force, where he earned his wings as a flight surgeon and served in numerous leadership roles, including squadron command.

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.

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.

Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Hi, my name is Cassandra Hazelrig, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of healthcare experience. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, dual diagnosis, and other conditions. The first step toward healing is an accurate diagnosis, followed by a combination of effective medication management, lifestyle changes, and therapy techniques. We will work together to garner your inner strengths, learn new coping skills, and leap over stumbling blocks that prevent you from living your best life.
Hi, my name is Cassandra Hazelrig, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of healthcare experience. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, dual diagnosis, and other conditions. The first step toward healing is an accurate diagnosis, followed by a combination of effective medication management, lifestyle changes, and therapy techniques. We will work together to garner your inner strengths, learn new coping skills, and leap over stumbling blocks that prevent you from living your best life.

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.

Mindful Psychiatry & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am currently accepting new patients for telehealth appts in Ohio, Colorado and Washington. I am an experienced board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in treating adults suffering from anxiety, depression, ptsd, ocd, and bipolar disorder. My services include assessment, prescribing psychiatric medications and recommending therapy modalities to address your specific needs. My focus is on providing individualized care using evidence-based best practice to improve your well-being as quickly as possible. I practice a collaborative approach to care.
I am currently accepting new patients for telehealth appts in Ohio, Colorado and Washington. I am an experienced board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in treating adults suffering from anxiety, depression, ptsd, ocd, and bipolar disorder. My services include assessment, prescribing psychiatric medications and recommending therapy modalities to address your specific needs. My focus is on providing individualized care using evidence-based best practice to improve your well-being as quickly as possible. I practice a collaborative approach to care.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting my clients’ mental health journeys. I earned my Bachelor of Science from Ohio University in 2017 and completed my Master of Science at Ohio State University in 2023. My experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at The James Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio, helped me develop a deep empathy and understanding for my patients.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting my clients’ mental health journeys. I earned my Bachelor of Science from Ohio University in 2017 and completed my Master of Science at Ohio State University in 2023. My experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at The James Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio, helped me develop a deep empathy and understanding for my patients.

Nyla Bintu Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.

Dr. Karen Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FAAN
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
When you are hurting and unable to focus due to anxiety, depression, addiction or whatever the problem, be it your own or someone else's, you want relief. Contact me, I am here to help. You are not alone. I want to help you navigate to your best form possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I feel your pain and I am here to help. Book a session with me today.
When you are hurting and unable to focus due to anxiety, depression, addiction or whatever the problem, be it your own or someone else's, you want relief. Contact me, I am here to help. You are not alone. I want to help you navigate to your best form possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I feel your pain and I am here to help. Book a session with me today.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Sirona Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, NCMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
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

Cassandra Hazelrig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Welcoming New Patients to Encounter Wellness Mental Health Services! "And still, I rise.” — Maya Angelou. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or maybe you just do not feel like yourself? We are here to help you. Hello, I am Cassandra Hazelrig, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and other conditions.
Welcoming New Patients to Encounter Wellness Mental Health Services! "And still, I rise.” — Maya Angelou. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or maybe you just do not feel like yourself? We are here to help you. Hello, I am Cassandra Hazelrig, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and other conditions.

Elizabeth Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Mental health is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone deserves to have their unique needs heard and validated. If you're experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, or struggling with focus, attention, or motivation, I'm here to offer support. My goal is to help you achieve yours.
Mental health is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone deserves to have their unique needs heard and validated. If you're experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, or struggling with focus, attention, or motivation, I'm here to offer support. My goal is to help you achieve yours.

George Andrew Darling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!

Sarah Martin is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2013. Sarah strives to offer a safe and trusting environment for her clients on their path to mental wellness and healing. You know your child best of all! In this spirit, Sarah offers a personalized and family-centered partnership to help clients reach their personal best. Sarah has more than 10 years of child/adolescent mental health experience in the outpatient and inpatient care settings, including Cincinnati Children's Hospital Division of Psychiatry and Rocking Horse Community Health Center.
Sarah Martin is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2013. Sarah strives to offer a safe and trusting environment for her clients on their path to mental wellness and healing. You know your child best of all! In this spirit, Sarah offers a personalized and family-centered partnership to help clients reach their personal best. Sarah has more than 10 years of child/adolescent mental health experience in the outpatient and inpatient care settings, including Cincinnati Children's Hospital Division of Psychiatry and Rocking Horse Community Health Center.

I am a board certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have been practicing for over 10 years with experience with care of patients in a hospital, residential, and clinic settings. I value building relationships with both the child and their provider(s) to provide appropriate mental health care. I have treated various diagnoses and mental health concerns including: OCD, depression, ADHD, Autism related behavioral difficulties, young adults transitioning into adulthood, anxiety, and disruptive mood disorders. My approach to is address problems from a comprehensive perspective as their may be various contributing factors.
I am a board certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have been practicing for over 10 years with experience with care of patients in a hospital, residential, and clinic settings. I value building relationships with both the child and their provider(s) to provide appropriate mental health care. I have treated various diagnoses and mental health concerns including: OCD, depression, ADHD, Autism related behavioral difficulties, young adults transitioning into adulthood, anxiety, and disruptive mood disorders. My approach to is address problems from a comprehensive perspective as their may be various contributing factors.

Our God-given mission is to provide holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate treatment to those who suffer from mental illness, emotional pain, and addiction. Our team consist of a psychiatrist, therapist/counselors, nurse practitioners, and nurses to help clients achieve real outcomes with their mental health and addiction recovery.
Our God-given mission is to provide holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate treatment to those who suffer from mental illness, emotional pain, and addiction. Our team consist of a psychiatrist, therapist/counselors, nurse practitioners, and nurses to help clients achieve real outcomes with their mental health and addiction recovery.

I am an Advanced-Practice Registered Nurse with board certifications as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Practice NP-BC. My approach to mental health care is individualized and based on the needs of each client seeking non-judgmental and supportive care. I prescribe medication and incorporate therapy when indicated for maximum benefit. We can work together to start building a safe and healthy mental health journey with life-long skills for productive living.
I am an Advanced-Practice Registered Nurse with board certifications as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Practice NP-BC. My approach to mental health care is individualized and based on the needs of each client seeking non-judgmental and supportive care. I prescribe medication and incorporate therapy when indicated for maximum benefit. We can work together to start building a safe and healthy mental health journey with life-long skills for productive living.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide compassionate, individualized care, believing every person's mental wellness journey is unique. I offer a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and valued. My practice focuses on medication management and therapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I do not prescribe Schedule-II medications for ADHD, including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Vyvanse, Concerta, amphetamines, methamphetamine, or methylphenidate.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide compassionate, individualized care, believing every person's mental wellness journey is unique. I offer a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and valued. My practice focuses on medication management and therapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I do not prescribe Schedule-II medications for ADHD, including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Vyvanse, Concerta, amphetamines, methamphetamine, or methylphenidate.
See more therapy options for 45069
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 45069
30+
Average cost per session
$154
Psychiatrists in 45069 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
90% | Trauma and PTSD |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Medication Management |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
96% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 45069 see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 45069?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.