Psychiatrists in 45201

Photo of Juliette Marcello, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juliette Marcello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45201  (Online Only)
Are you forcing a smile while struggling with depression, anxiety, or self-doubt inside? It can be exhausting trying to hold it together, but there’s hope. I’m dedicated to supporting those facing challenging times—teenagers, college students, moms navigating the ups and downs of motherhood, those experiencing life’s stressors or changes, and even those who are struggling emotionally but are unsure why. You deserve to feel your best, and I’m here to help.
Are you forcing a smile while struggling with depression, anxiety, or self-doubt inside? It can be exhausting trying to hold it together, but there’s hope. I’m dedicated to supporting those facing challenging times—teenagers, college students, moms navigating the ups and downs of motherhood, those experiencing life’s stressors or changes, and even those who are struggling emotionally but are unsure why. You deserve to feel your best, and I’m here to help.
(234) 278-2728 View (234) 278-2728
Photo of Nikki Ruoss, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nikki Ruoss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45201
Taking the first step in focusing on your mental wellness is huge - and can be a little overwhelming. Congratulations for making yourself a priority! My work focuses on the treatment and medication management of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and bipolar. I have special interest in trauma, mindful-based therapy, and nutrition for mental health. I have a strong belief in creating an environment for decreasing mental health stigma, empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness, and lead fulfilling lives!
Taking the first step in focusing on your mental wellness is huge - and can be a little overwhelming. Congratulations for making yourself a priority! My work focuses on the treatment and medication management of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and bipolar. I have special interest in trauma, mindful-based therapy, and nutrition for mental health. I have a strong belief in creating an environment for decreasing mental health stigma, empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness, and lead fulfilling lives!
(513) 949-4635 View (513) 949-4635
Photo of Kristin Aguado, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristin Aguado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45201  (Online Only)
"There is no limit to what you can imagine. And with commitment, with effort, what you can imagine you can become. Put your mind to work for you. Believe that you can do it. The world will tell you that you can’t. Yet, in your belief you’ll find the strength, you’ll find the ability, to do it anyway”. ~Ralph Marston~ Kristin is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner in Specialties of Psychiatry and Family Practice. She has strong expertise and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide array of medical, addiction, and mental health conditions for patients of all ages, within both inpatient and outpatient settings.
"There is no limit to what you can imagine. And with commitment, with effort, what you can imagine you can become. Put your mind to work for you. Believe that you can do it. The world will tell you that you can’t. Yet, in your belief you’ll find the strength, you’ll find the ability, to do it anyway”. ~Ralph Marston~ Kristin is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner in Specialties of Psychiatry and Family Practice. She has strong expertise and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide array of medical, addiction, and mental health conditions for patients of all ages, within both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(740) 921-1614 View (740) 921-1614
Photo of Ken Nwogu - Integrative Wellness Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrative Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45201
I specialize in holistic care, emphasizing integrative mental wellness, addressing functional issues including anxiety, depressive, and mood disorders as well as improving overall health, and lifestyle. I can recommend, prescribe, and monitor medications and psychotherapy. I am able to meet with clients through telemedicine/telepsychiatry or in person.
I specialize in holistic care, emphasizing integrative mental wellness, addressing functional issues including anxiety, depressive, and mood disorders as well as improving overall health, and lifestyle. I can recommend, prescribe, and monitor medications and psychotherapy. I am able to meet with clients through telemedicine/telepsychiatry or in person.
(614) 368-7150 View (614) 368-7150
Photo of Cindy Petzke, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cindy Petzke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45201
Hello! I am a caring, knowledgeable healthcare professional with over 28 years of nursing experience. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for over 8 years and am experienced with all mental health populations. I am an Air Force Nurse Corp Veteran. I understand military and civilian problems. I understand trauma, individual, and family issues. I enjoy helping all age groups of people.
Hello! I am a caring, knowledgeable healthcare professional with over 28 years of nursing experience. I have been a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for over 8 years and am experienced with all mental health populations. I am an Air Force Nurse Corp Veteran. I understand military and civilian problems. I understand trauma, individual, and family issues. I enjoy helping all age groups of people.
(502) 309-2879 View (502) 309-2879
Photo of Erin Whitehouse, APRN,  PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin Whitehouse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45201  (Online Only)
I find empathy and unconditional positive regard to be healing in and of itself; however, I also understand the value of clinical training and learning to implement interventions according to my client’s needs.
I find empathy and unconditional positive regard to be healing in and of itself; however, I also understand the value of clinical training and learning to implement interventions according to my client’s needs.
(502) 317-8622 View (502) 317-8622
Photo of Amy Everhart, MSN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Everhart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45201
Want to know what makes psychiatric care with me different? It’s the power of human connection through lived experiences. It’s the real life stuff that can’t be taught in school or in books. It’s the fact that we as women are all in this together. My favorite part of my practice is the relationships I build with my patients and the success stories that follow. Here, you will never be a number. I will always take the time to get to know you. I want to hear your story and be part of your journey. I am ready to help you feel your best so you can get back to living your life!
Want to know what makes psychiatric care with me different? It’s the power of human connection through lived experiences. It’s the real life stuff that can’t be taught in school or in books. It’s the fact that we as women are all in this together. My favorite part of my practice is the relationships I build with my patients and the success stories that follow. Here, you will never be a number. I will always take the time to get to know you. I want to hear your story and be part of your journey. I am ready to help you feel your best so you can get back to living your life!
(740) 665-8579 View (740) 665-8579
Photo of Alisa Nater Torres - Fervent Healing LLC, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fervent Healing LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45201  (Online Only)
Are you tired of healthcare providers rushing you through your visit? I strive to provide a safe space to receive quality health services, with a focus on personalized care that meets the unique needs of each patient. It is important to remember a person is comprised of their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Are you tired of healthcare providers rushing you through your visit? I strive to provide a safe space to receive quality health services, with a focus on personalized care that meets the unique needs of each patient. It is important to remember a person is comprised of their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.
(216) 284-9549 View (216) 284-9549
Photo of Annamaria Pagani, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annamaria Pagani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45201  (Online Only)
Welcome to my page! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner accepting patients ages 15 and up. My role involves addressing symptoms and challenges that patients face with medication, but also identifying other factors that could contribute to their mental health. This includes medical conditions, lifestyle factors, coping skills, genetics, and more. I offer genetic testing to help narrow down psychotropic medication options and to help patients understand why previous medications may not have worked. I empower my patients to actively participate in making decisions in their own care.
Welcome to my page! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner accepting patients ages 15 and up. My role involves addressing symptoms and challenges that patients face with medication, but also identifying other factors that could contribute to their mental health. This includes medical conditions, lifestyle factors, coping skills, genetics, and more. I offer genetic testing to help narrow down psychotropic medication options and to help patients understand why previous medications may not have worked. I empower my patients to actively participate in making decisions in their own care.
(614) 877-8627 View (614) 877-8627
Photo of Megan Correll, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Correll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45201  (Online Only)
My name is Megan Correll PMHNP, CNP. I provide exclusively online services through my practice “Next Chapter Psychiatry.” I believe mental health care is NOT one size fits all, and because of this, it's my priority to tailor care specific to a person and their life experiences. I also want to make communication more effective and provide thorough all-around care and provide direct communication with your provider with prompt response times. Due to this, I offer longer appointment times, along with evening and weekend appointment availability. My goal is to eliminate as many barriers as possible to give you the treatment you deserve.
My name is Megan Correll PMHNP, CNP. I provide exclusively online services through my practice “Next Chapter Psychiatry.” I believe mental health care is NOT one size fits all, and because of this, it's my priority to tailor care specific to a person and their life experiences. I also want to make communication more effective and provide thorough all-around care and provide direct communication with your provider with prompt response times. Due to this, I offer longer appointment times, along with evening and weekend appointment availability. My goal is to eliminate as many barriers as possible to give you the treatment you deserve.
(380) 800-5952 View (380) 800-5952
Photo of Kimberly Swartz, RN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Swartz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45201
Hello! I’m Kimberly. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in health care. I provide holistic integrative care, and I am glad you are here! Seeking help can be a bit overwhelming and perhaps even scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
Hello! I’m Kimberly. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in health care. I provide holistic integrative care, and I am glad you are here! Seeking help can be a bit overwhelming and perhaps even scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
(937) 230-7841 View (937) 230-7841
Photo of Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, DO, MS, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45201
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
(330) 708-7210 View (330) 708-7210

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Helene Muhirwa, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helene Muhirwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Collinsville, OH 45004
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 8 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve full potential of mental Illness or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 8 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve full potential of mental Illness or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
(614) 756-5649 View (614) 756-5649
Photo of Dr. Dipika Shah - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45230
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.
(844) 671-0369 View (844) 671-0369
Photo of Meagan Hawkins, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meagan Hawkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Milford, OH 45150
Meagan Hawkins is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her master's degree in nursing from Walden University and has been working in outpatient settings providing care to adolescents and adults. She is certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Current MAT certification for Suboxone and Methadone use. Her specialty areas include depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and substance use disorders.
Meagan Hawkins is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her master's degree in nursing from Walden University and has been working in outpatient settings providing care to adolescents and adults. She is certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Current MAT certification for Suboxone and Methadone use. Her specialty areas include depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and substance use disorders.
(513) 647-2197 View (513) 647-2197
Photo of Kristi Bates, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristi Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, OH 45030
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 Angela Marie Strotman, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Marie Strotman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45239
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone’s path to wellness can look much different. I view each person as an individual and create a plan that is unique to you and your struggles. I believe that anyone who takes the path to wellness deserves to have a voice and to be treated with respect and empowerment. I treat patients of all ages from 5+. I enjoy working with both children and adults. I am currently pursuing specialty certification in Perinatal Mental Health to treat women both during and after their pregnancy. I have also been certified in pediatrics and critical care as an RN. I strive to help patient's with their overall health.
Everyone’s path to wellness can look much different. I view each person as an individual and create a plan that is unique to you and your struggles. I believe that anyone who takes the path to wellness deserves to have a voice and to be treated with respect and empowerment. I treat patients of all ages from 5+. I enjoy working with both children and adults. I am currently pursuing specialty certification in Perinatal Mental Health to treat women both during and after their pregnancy. I have also been certified in pediatrics and critical care as an RN. I strive to help patient's with their overall health.
(513) 447-6083 View (513) 447-6083
Photo of Jennifer Shoenfelt, MD, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Shoenfelt
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45249
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Jennifer Shoenfelt is a double board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on child and adolescent medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Shoenfelt may believe that additional therapy is needed and will ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome. She provides treatment plans that include holistic recommendations that include diet, exercise, educational and psychosocial/spiritual aspects of care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoenfelt is a double board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on child and adolescent medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Shoenfelt may believe that additional therapy is needed and will ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome. She provides treatment plans that include holistic recommendations that include diet, exercise, educational and psychosocial/spiritual aspects of care.
(513) 982-5933 View (513) 982-5933
Photo of Ashley Michelle Roden, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Michelle Roden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
(937) 600-6866 View (937) 600-6866
Photo of Joel Ellison, MD, Psychiatrist
Joel Ellison
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45219
My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both, I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both, I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
(513) 815-3625 View (513) 815-3625

See more therapy options for 45201

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45201

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 45201 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
92% Trauma and PTSD
83% Medication Management
75% Bipolar Disorder
58% ADHD
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
91% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 45201 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45201?

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.