Psychiatrists in 45201

Photo of Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Serves Area
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
Photo of Kimberly Swartz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kimberly Swartz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Nikki Ruoss, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Nikki Ruoss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Taking the first step in focusing on your mental wellness is huge—and can be a little overwhelming. Congratulations on making yourself a priority! My work focuses on the treatment and medication management of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in trauma, mindfulness-based therapy, and nutrition as it relates to mental health. I have a strong belief in creating an environment for decreasing mental health stigma, empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness, and leading fulfilling lives!
Taking the first step in focusing on your mental wellness is huge—and can be a little overwhelming. Congratulations on making yourself a priority! My work focuses on the treatment and medication management of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in trauma, mindfulness-based therapy, and nutrition as it relates to mental health. I have a strong belief in creating an environment for decreasing mental health stigma, empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness, and leading fulfilling lives!
(513) 949-4635 View (513) 949-4635
Photo of Ken Nwogu - Integrative Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Integrative Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
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 Kristin Aguado, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Kristin Aguado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
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 Tylon Staggs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Tylon Staggs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
I know that life gets busy and we sometimes put our mental health needs on the back burner. I aim to offer flexible options for evening and weekend appointments that are relaxed and focused on understanding you and your individual needs when it comes to your mental health.
I know that life gets busy and we sometimes put our mental health needs on the back burner. I aim to offer flexible options for evening and weekend appointments that are relaxed and focused on understanding you and your individual needs when it comes to your mental health.
(740) 936-9802 View (740) 936-9802

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Danielle Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Danielle Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45238
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of healthcare experience in various settings, including six years in psychiatry. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Northern Kentucky University. My focus is on treating anxiety, depression, and mood disorders across the lifespan. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive and collaborative environment, ensuring that each client feels heard and empowered on their mental health journey.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of healthcare experience in various settings, including six years in psychiatry. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Northern Kentucky University. My focus is on treating anxiety, depression, and mood disorders across the lifespan. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive and collaborative environment, ensuring that each client feels heard and empowered on their mental health journey.
(937) 932-2721 View (937) 932-2721
Photo of Eric Adams - Lee Side Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lee Side Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mason, OH 45040
Hi! I have been in mental health care for almost 15 years in a variety of settings. The bulk of my experience has been in the high acuity setting of Emergency Psychiatry. I have a passion for empathic care that seeks to understand and help those dealing with not just mental illness, but the stress of life in general. I treat individuals of all ages and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. I am also particularly passionate about providing care for psychotic and psychosis related disorders, as well as working with sexual identity and gender identity concerns.
Hi! I have been in mental health care for almost 15 years in a variety of settings. The bulk of my experience has been in the high acuity setting of Emergency Psychiatry. I have a passion for empathic care that seeks to understand and help those dealing with not just mental illness, but the stress of life in general. I treat individuals of all ages and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. I am also particularly passionate about providing care for psychotic and psychosis related disorders, as well as working with sexual identity and gender identity concerns.
(513) 643-5915 View (513) 643-5915
Photo of Princess Gaitawe-Johnson, Psychiatrist, MD
Princess Gaitawe-Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
West Chester, OH 45069
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.
(513) 540-0842 View (513) 540-0842
Photo of Yvette Dorsey-Benson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Yvette Dorsey-Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Do you feel trapped or stuck in emotional situations that leave you feeling like there’s no way out? “Suffering in silence” is not an option and it’s ok to ask for help. Let me help you equip yourself with the necessary tools to become your best version of self. Yvette Dorsey-Benson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals and families that struggle to manage stress, issues surrounding mental health and the day-to-day challenges that life can bring. “Understanding that we all experience dissatisfaction in life sometime or another is real. It’s ok not to be ok”.
Do you feel trapped or stuck in emotional situations that leave you feeling like there’s no way out? “Suffering in silence” is not an option and it’s ok to ask for help. Let me help you equip yourself with the necessary tools to become your best version of self. Yvette Dorsey-Benson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals and families that struggle to manage stress, issues surrounding mental health and the day-to-day challenges that life can bring. “Understanding that we all experience dissatisfaction in life sometime or another is real. It’s ok not to be ok”.
(937) 230-8235 View (937) 230-8235
Photo of Fatimah Thiam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fatimah Thiam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hello, I am Fatimah, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who have been in practice over the last 8 years, with experience working in inpatient, outpatient and crisis settings. Do you suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, mood swings, eating disorders, insomnia, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders or substance abuse? I'm here because of you and I care about you. To book your appointment go to https:/centralbehavioralclinic.com/.
Hello, I am Fatimah, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who have been in practice over the last 8 years, with experience working in inpatient, outpatient and crisis settings. Do you suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, mood swings, eating disorders, insomnia, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders or substance abuse? I'm here because of you and I care about you. To book your appointment go to https:/centralbehavioralclinic.com/.
(614) 698-1498 View (614) 698-1498
Photo of Stephanie Timmons, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Stephanie Timmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Stephanie Timmons is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 10 years experience in outpatient, inpatient and in-home nursing care. Her specialty areas are medication management and treatment of anxiety disorders including panic and post-traumatic stress, depression, adjustment disorders, anger and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She holds bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from the University of Cincinnati with advanced certification in family and psychiatric nursing.
Stephanie Timmons is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 10 years experience in outpatient, inpatient and in-home nursing care. Her specialty areas are medication management and treatment of anxiety disorders including panic and post-traumatic stress, depression, adjustment disorders, anger and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She holds bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from the University of Cincinnati with advanced certification in family and psychiatric nursing.
(513) 613-4453 View (513) 613-4453
Photo of Dr. Andrea Lynette Swails, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN, DNP
Dr. Andrea Lynette Swails
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN, DNP
Serves Area
Greetings, my name is Dr. Andrea L. Swails. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 13 years of experience in medical-surgical nursing on the floor, lecturing in the classroom at various colleges, working in clinicals with students in hospital settings, and living a life full of joy in helping patients with mental illness.
Greetings, my name is Dr. Andrea L. Swails. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 13 years of experience in medical-surgical nursing on the floor, lecturing in the classroom at various colleges, working in clinicals with students in hospital settings, and living a life full of joy in helping patients with mental illness.
(216) 480-4191 View (216) 480-4191
Photo of Simone Collier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Simone Collier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
One of the aspects of mental health care I am most passionate about is working underserved populations. I have seen how systemic barriers and cultural differences can impact an individual's mental health journey, and I strive to be an advocate for equitable care. I seek to address the unique needs of each individual while promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma in the communities I serve. I utilize a holistic and client-centered approach to medication management, recognizing that each person is unique and requires tailored interventions to achieve their goals.
One of the aspects of mental health care I am most passionate about is working underserved populations. I have seen how systemic barriers and cultural differences can impact an individual's mental health journey, and I strive to be an advocate for equitable care. I seek to address the unique needs of each individual while promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma in the communities I serve. I utilize a holistic and client-centered approach to medication management, recognizing that each person is unique and requires tailored interventions to achieve their goals.
(513) 998-6195 View (513) 998-6195
Photo of Lady Crockett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Lady Crockett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Springdale, OH 45246
Accepting new clients for ADHD, depression, and anxiety treatment. Same-week openings and personalized care. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience in mental health care, including inpatient, outpatient, and correctional settings. I offer both in-person and online appointments, specializing in ADHD, psychosis, alcohol dependence, depression, and anxiety. My approach combines therapy and medication management, utilizing tools like Spravato (esketamine) for treatment-resistant depression and Genesight testing to personalize medication plans.
Accepting new clients for ADHD, depression, and anxiety treatment. Same-week openings and personalized care. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience in mental health care, including inpatient, outpatient, and correctional settings. I offer both in-person and online appointments, specializing in ADHD, psychosis, alcohol dependence, depression, and anxiety. My approach combines therapy and medication management, utilizing tools like Spravato (esketamine) for treatment-resistant depression and Genesight testing to personalize medication plans.
(513) 654-1598 View (513) 654-1598
Photo of Edwina R Zettler, Psychiatrist, MD
Edwina R Zettler
Psychiatrist, MD
Fairfield, OH 45014
I am an Adult Psychiatrist with a focus in addiction. Having worked 20 years in mental health and over 14 years in addiction, I am especially equipped to understand your unique experience. I provide comprehensive care by addressing not only your addiction but also any accompanying mental health issues. My practice is small, quiet and very confidential. You will NOT be treated like a "number" in a big box clinic. Your treatment will be individualized and specific to you. Therapy combined with medications such as Suboxone can help you to rebuild your life and live joyfully.
I am an Adult Psychiatrist with a focus in addiction. Having worked 20 years in mental health and over 14 years in addiction, I am especially equipped to understand your unique experience. I provide comprehensive care by addressing not only your addiction but also any accompanying mental health issues. My practice is small, quiet and very confidential. You will NOT be treated like a "number" in a big box clinic. Your treatment will be individualized and specific to you. Therapy combined with medications such as Suboxone can help you to rebuild your life and live joyfully.
(513) 496-3604 View (513) 496-3604
Photo of Calli Hall - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Milford, OH 45150
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(513) 643-8144 View (513) 643-8144
Photo of Dr. Karen Harris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FAAN
Dr. Karen Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FAAN
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 will help you navigate to your best you possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I understand your pain and I am here to help. Book with me today. Let's finish the work that you have begun by just coming to this page.
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 will help you navigate to your best you possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I understand your pain and I am here to help. Book with me today. Let's finish the work that you have begun by just coming to this page.
(513) 613-9783 View (513) 613-9783
Photo of Dr. Dipika Shah - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
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.
(513) 640-1197 View (513) 640-1197
Photo of Rachel Keiser, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rachel Keiser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45239
I'm happy that you are taking the time to research providers that can assist in treating your mental health needs. Feeling down, anxious, or as though "something is just not right...," should not be the norm- there is help out there. I will work with you- making your wants and needs my priority- to optimize your mental health and help you achieve your goals.
I'm happy that you are taking the time to research providers that can assist in treating your mental health needs. Feeling down, anxious, or as though "something is just not right...," should not be the norm- there is help out there. I will work with you- making your wants and needs my priority- to optimize your mental health and help you achieve your goals.
(513) 547-2627 View (513) 547-2627

See more therapy options for 45201

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45201

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45201 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
83% Psychosis
83% Bipolar Disorder
67% Addiction
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 45201 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% 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.