Psychiatrists in 45203
Take control of your mental health with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, compassionate, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive.
Take control of your mental health with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, compassionate, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive.
Barrie Behavioral Health (BBH).
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CNP, Psych
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45203
Not accepting new clients
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
Kerri Pearch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
My passion is helping people improve their quality of life through unpacking the past and working towards a better future through medication and therapy. I enjoy working with all patients struggling with mental health and find that being a genuine listener helps to create a bond between myself and my patients.
My passion is helping people improve their quality of life through unpacking the past and working towards a better future through medication and therapy. I enjoy working with all patients struggling with mental health and find that being a genuine listener helps to create a bond between myself and my patients.
Laurel Hurst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Helping my patients feel safe, seen, and heard on the path to recovery is my primary goal as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Helping my patients feel safe, seen, and heard on the path to recovery is my primary goal as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an MD from The Ohio State University and a PhD in cell and developmental biology. I have extensive training in psychotherapy for both adults and children. I have helped many patients achieve lasting, thorough changes toward a happy and fulfilling life. The issues include ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, paranoia, PTSD, and psychotic disorder. I treat my patients with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. My psychotherapy approaches include psychodynamic and supportive psychotherapy, CBT, and play therapy, whichever proves to be most appropriate and effective.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an MD from The Ohio State University and a PhD in cell and developmental biology. I have extensive training in psychotherapy for both adults and children. I have helped many patients achieve lasting, thorough changes toward a happy and fulfilling life. The issues include ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, paranoia, PTSD, and psychotic disorder. I treat my patients with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. My psychotherapy approaches include psychodynamic and supportive psychotherapy, CBT, and play therapy, whichever proves to be most appropriate and effective.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
turning point psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45210 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
A mental health provider/counselor helps patients overcome psychological challenges, often by helping them to develop the insight about their illness, guiding and supporting them in learning to change their negative behaviors and thought patterns, and providing them with the best pharmacological approach in order to treat their mental illness. It’s a deeply rewarding line of work that I find, highly fulfilling,فارسی زبان ها را حتما دعوت می کنم که تماس بگیرند برای روان درمانی در زمینه مشاورت ویا دارو درمانی. من ایرانی هستم وخیلی مایل به درمان هم کشوری هایم هستم
A mental health provider/counselor helps patients overcome psychological challenges, often by helping them to develop the insight about their illness, guiding and supporting them in learning to change their negative behaviors and thought patterns, and providing them with the best pharmacological approach in order to treat their mental illness. It’s a deeply rewarding line of work that I find, highly fulfilling,فارسی زبان ها را حتما دعوت می کنم که تماس بگیرند برای روان درمانی در زمینه مشاورت ویا دارو درمانی. من ایرانی هستم وخیلی مایل به درمان هم کشوری هایم هستم
Katelyn Boldon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Kate and I have been working in the mental health field for 9 years. I started off my undergraduate degree working alongside top psychiatrists at OSU in identifying and treatment manic symptoms in what is now published research. I obtained my bachelors degree in both psychology and nursing at OSU. I then went on to get my Masters degree in Psychiatric Nursing. I started off working as a psychiatric nurse in adolescent inpatient units. I then went on to community mental health, where I worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clients from age 4 +, adolescents, adults to geriatric clients.
Hello! My name is Kate and I have been working in the mental health field for 9 years. I started off my undergraduate degree working alongside top psychiatrists at OSU in identifying and treatment manic symptoms in what is now published research. I obtained my bachelors degree in both psychology and nursing at OSU. I then went on to get my Masters degree in Psychiatric Nursing. I started off working as a psychiatric nurse in adolescent inpatient units. I then went on to community mental health, where I worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clients from age 4 +, adolescents, adults to geriatric clients.
Yvette Dorsey-Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202
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”.
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or a personality disorder we all desire happy fulfilling lives. In order for us to get to a new place, there has to be a willingness and commitment to do the work. I will challenge you to spend your free-time differently. We will analyze what you choose to fill your thoughts with and the activities you currently engage in. What do you spend your money on? “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” For most of us the old adage "the pain of not changing has to be greater than the pain of changing” before we are ready to make a true commitment to healing.
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or a personality disorder we all desire happy fulfilling lives. In order for us to get to a new place, there has to be a willingness and commitment to do the work. I will challenge you to spend your free-time differently. We will analyze what you choose to fill your thoughts with and the activities you currently engage in. What do you spend your money on? “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” For most of us the old adage "the pain of not changing has to be greater than the pain of changing” before we are ready to make a true commitment to healing.
Harmony Mamutse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Mental health does not define who you are, it does not have to take over your life. We all fight our inner - battles differently. Some need help to navigate through different emotional roadblocks. You should know there is hope for you to guide you and help you overcome your struggles whether you have depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diseases. I will work with you to address the inner emotional issues that you experience. We will work together to analyze root cause, modify, treat and manage the behavioral health struggles you go through. I currently offer Telehealth psych services ONLY
Mental health does not define who you are, it does not have to take over your life. We all fight our inner - battles differently. Some need help to navigate through different emotional roadblocks. You should know there is hope for you to guide you and help you overcome your struggles whether you have depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diseases. I will work with you to address the inner emotional issues that you experience. We will work together to analyze root cause, modify, treat and manage the behavioral health struggles you go through. I currently offer Telehealth psych services ONLY
Veronica Dwamena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I received my master's from Walden University and have been practicing for 2 and a half years.
Hello, I'm a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I received my master's from Walden University and have been practicing for 2 and a half years.
Christabel Ahenkan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
My name is Christabel Ahenkan, Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner. I hold masters in Nursing, has 3 years experience with addiction and behavioral services. The area of therapy I specialized in Cognitive Behavioral therapy, specialize treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, Postpartum depression. My therapeutic approach is more holistic and evidence base practice. I see patient between 18 years and above. I see patient how and when them need help provide safe and non judgement.
My name is Christabel Ahenkan, Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner. I hold masters in Nursing, has 3 years experience with addiction and behavioral services. The area of therapy I specialized in Cognitive Behavioral therapy, specialize treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, Postpartum depression. My therapeutic approach is more holistic and evidence base practice. I see patient between 18 years and above. I see patient how and when them need help provide safe and non judgement.
Nancy Odita-Honnah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Nancy Odita-Honnah is a psych mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in assessing, diagnosing, medication management of Mood Disorder, Depression, Anxiety and many more psych disorders in Adult and Geriatric population. She also prescribes medication for acute and chronic illness, she provides care coordination and makes referral to appropriate teams.
Nancy Odita-Honnah is a psych mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in assessing, diagnosing, medication management of Mood Disorder, Depression, Anxiety and many more psych disorders in Adult and Geriatric population. She also prescribes medication for acute and chronic illness, she provides care coordination and makes referral to appropriate teams.
FirstCare Integrated Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202
I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders. I have experience in treating individuals from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings.
I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders. I have experience in treating individuals from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings.
Lisa O'Shaughnessy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Sometimes, you get so busy taking care of everything, everyone else, that you, well, fall to pieces. When you feel like you are too tired, you have no energy left, and you just cannot keep going like this... we might be just right to work together!
Sometimes, you get so busy taking care of everything, everyone else, that you, well, fall to pieces. When you feel like you are too tired, you have no energy left, and you just cannot keep going like this... we might be just right to work together!
Dale LaChance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
Tonya Edmondson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
I am an experienced psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 19 years of experience in various settings, including long-term care, inpatient, outpatient, and telepsychiatry. My practice approach is patient-centered, focusing on helping individuals achieve their goals, improving their quality of life, and fostering connections within families and communities.
I am an experienced psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 19 years of experience in various settings, including long-term care, inpatient, outpatient, and telepsychiatry. My practice approach is patient-centered, focusing on helping individuals achieve their goals, improving their quality of life, and fostering connections within families and communities.
Ashley Brugmann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health. She excels at building strong patient relationships and creating individualized, evidence-based care plans. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys exploring new places, hiking, reading, and indulging in her love for art and interior design. For exceptional mental health care, Ashley Brugmann is your trusted partner on the journey to wellness.
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health. She excels at building strong patient relationships and creating individualized, evidence-based care plans. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys exploring new places, hiking, reading, and indulging in her love for art and interior design. For exceptional mental health care, Ashley Brugmann is your trusted partner on the journey to wellness.
See more therapy options for 45203
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 45203
< 10
Psychiatrists in 45203 who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Spirituality |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 45203 see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 45203?
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.