Psychiatrists in 45205

Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Cincinnati, OH 45205
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45205
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Juliana Abigail Badu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Juliana Abigail Badu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Starting therapy can feel a bit overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions. I work with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, substance use disorder and life transitions. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs, helping you build insight, resilience, and practical coping skills. Together, we’ll work toward helping you feel more confident, balanced, and empowered in your daily life.
Starting therapy can feel a bit overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions. I work with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, substance use disorder and life transitions. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs, helping you build insight, resilience, and practical coping skills. Together, we’ll work toward helping you feel more confident, balanced, and empowered in your daily life.
(513) 953-4577 View (513) 953-4577
Photo of Mark Roberts - Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS and IV Therapy , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS and IV Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of depression and anxiety. My approach is holistic and tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs. Depression and PTSD are prevalent among veterans, often requiring innovative treatment approaches. I offer cutting-edge treatments such as Spravato (esketamine) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), both of which have proven effective for patients who have not found relief from traditional treatments.
I am a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of depression and anxiety. My approach is holistic and tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs. Depression and PTSD are prevalent among veterans, often requiring innovative treatment approaches. I offer cutting-edge treatments such as Spravato (esketamine) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), both of which have proven effective for patients who have not found relief from traditional treatments.
(937) 719-5856 View (937) 719-5856
Photo of Dr. Bethany Harper, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bethany Harper
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Rachel Thatcher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Rachel Thatcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is proactive and engaged in their mental health journey, seeking both medication management and a comprehensive wellness approach. They value understanding themselves, developing resilience, and are committed to the therapeutic process. Their goals include effective stress management, emotional regulation, and healthier relationships. Motivated by personal growth, they integrate coping strategies like mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques for holistic improvement. Together, we tailor a treatment plan that empowers them to achieve their mental well-being goals.
My ideal client is proactive and engaged in their mental health journey, seeking both medication management and a comprehensive wellness approach. They value understanding themselves, developing resilience, and are committed to the therapeutic process. Their goals include effective stress management, emotional regulation, and healthier relationships. Motivated by personal growth, they integrate coping strategies like mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques for holistic improvement. Together, we tailor a treatment plan that empowers them to achieve their mental well-being goals.
(440) 586-4926 View (440) 586-4926
Photo of Michael W Barnes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA
Michael W Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, sleep disturbances, and personality disorders. My approach to care is deeply patient-centered, where compassion, empathy, and respect are the cornerstones of every interaction. In our initial 60-minute session, I conduct a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including a diagnostic assessment and the creation of a personalized treatment plan. Our follow-up appointments, which are typically 30 minutes, focus on medication management and integrated psychotherapy.
I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, sleep disturbances, and personality disorders. My approach to care is deeply patient-centered, where compassion, empathy, and respect are the cornerstones of every interaction. In our initial 60-minute session, I conduct a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including a diagnostic assessment and the creation of a personalized treatment plan. Our follow-up appointments, which are typically 30 minutes, focus on medication management and integrated psychotherapy.
(937) 870-2380 View (937) 870-2380

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Amber Whitlatch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amber Whitlatch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maineville, OH 45039
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience, specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I work with adults, including those who have experienced trauma and struggle with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I combine medication management with therapy, treating the whole person and focusing on wellness, lifestyle changes, and personalized care. My goal is to help you achieve lasting well-being through a comprehensive approach tailored to your unique needs.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience, specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I work with adults, including those who have experienced trauma and struggle with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I combine medication management with therapy, treating the whole person and focusing on wellness, lifestyle changes, and personalized care. My goal is to help you achieve lasting well-being through a comprehensive approach tailored to your unique needs.
(513) 689-3866 View (513) 689-3866
Photo of Debra Santos - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Cincinnati, OH 45236
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) 640-2616 View (513) 640-2616
Photo of Teresa Anderson, Psychiatrist, MD
Teresa Anderson
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45249
I work with adults who are seeking a more thoughtful, personalized approach to healing—especially those who feel stuck despite trying therapy or medication in the past. If you’re navigating depression, anxiety, or PTSD, my goal is to help you move beyond symptom management and toward meaningful, lasting change. My approach is integrative and rooted in both science and insight. With training in psychopharmacology and multiple therapy modalities—including psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)—I look at the full picture of your mental health.
I work with adults who are seeking a more thoughtful, personalized approach to healing—especially those who feel stuck despite trying therapy or medication in the past. If you’re navigating depression, anxiety, or PTSD, my goal is to help you move beyond symptom management and toward meaningful, lasting change. My approach is integrative and rooted in both science and insight. With training in psychopharmacology and multiple therapy modalities—including psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)—I look at the full picture of your mental health.
(513) 657-2968 View (513) 657-2968
Photo of Catherine Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Catherine Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe healing begins with feeling understood. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in genuine respect for each person’s story. I work alongside my patients to untangle symptoms, build clarity, and create a treatment plan that feels both empowering and realistic.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe healing begins with feeling understood. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in genuine respect for each person’s story. I work alongside my patients to untangle symptoms, build clarity, and create a treatment plan that feels both empowering and realistic.
(937) 806-5907 View (937) 806-5907
Photo of Emily Freimuth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Emily Freimuth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Blue Ash, OH 45242
In her practice, Emily serves a diverse population, including first responders, the LGBTQ+ community, military personnel, and veterans. Her dedication to providing inclusive and respectful care ensures that all patients feel understood and valued. Emily's ability to connect with her patients and provide tailored interventions, such as parenting skills, further enhances her effectiveness as a mental health provider. Emily's commitment to her patients extends beyond the clinical setting. She is dedicated to helping individuals with issues such as PTSD/trauma, women's issues, and sleep disorders/insomnia.
In her practice, Emily serves a diverse population, including first responders, the LGBTQ+ community, military personnel, and veterans. Her dedication to providing inclusive and respectful care ensures that all patients feel understood and valued. Emily's ability to connect with her patients and provide tailored interventions, such as parenting skills, further enhances her effectiveness as a mental health provider. Emily's commitment to her patients extends beyond the clinical setting. She is dedicated to helping individuals with issues such as PTSD/trauma, women's issues, and sleep disorders/insomnia.
(513) 995-6535 View (513) 995-6535
Photo of Dipika Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dipika Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Milford, OH 45150
received my medical degree from Gujarat University, and completed residency in psychiatry at Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago. Prior to my work in psychiatry, I worked in private practice and as an assistant professor in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have been practicing for over 25 years in the Cincinnati area and have experience with diverse populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
received my medical degree from Gujarat University, and completed residency in psychiatry at Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago. Prior to my work in psychiatry, I worked in private practice and as an assistant professor in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have been practicing for over 25 years in the Cincinnati area and have experience with diverse populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(513) 547-4366 View (513) 547-4366
Photo of Dr. Rohan Patel, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Rohan Patel
Psychiatrist, DO
Mason, OH 45040
Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related conditions. His comprehensive understanding of both medicine and mental health allows him to address the mind-body connection, ensuring that treatment plans are both holistic and effective. He strives to create a collaborative environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their care. In his work, Dr. Patel is also passionate about helping individuals manage psychiatric symptoms related to medical conditions and life transitions.Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and a
Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related conditions. His comprehensive understanding of both medicine and mental health allows him to address the mind-body connection, ensuring that treatment plans are both holistic and effective. He strives to create a collaborative environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their care. In his work, Dr. Patel is also passionate about helping individuals manage psychiatric symptoms related to medical conditions and life transitions.Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and a
(513) 935-2075 View (513) 935-2075
Photo of Leah Marie Padgett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Leah Marie Padgett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cincinnati, OH 45239
I am passionate about utilizing a holistic approach to improve the mental health and well-being of patients of all ages. I am committed to creating a compassionate, collaborative space where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. With a focus on empathy and empowerment, I work alongside my patients to help them achieve meaningful, lasting progress in their mental health journey.
I am passionate about utilizing a holistic approach to improve the mental health and well-being of patients of all ages. I am committed to creating a compassionate, collaborative space where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. With a focus on empathy and empowerment, I work alongside my patients to help them achieve meaningful, lasting progress in their mental health journey.
(513) 960-3049 View (513) 960-3049
Photo of Mei Chiang - MC Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
MC Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Cincinnati, OH 45249
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 patients achieve lasting, changes toward a happy and fulfilling life. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorder, PTSD and psychosis. I use a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy approaches include psychodynamic, supportive, CBT, EMDR, and play therapy, whichever proves to be most appropriate and effective for the moment. I am a psychiatrist that spends time with patients.
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 patients achieve lasting, changes toward a happy and fulfilling life. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorder, PTSD and psychosis. I use a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy approaches include psychodynamic, supportive, CBT, EMDR, and play therapy, whichever proves to be most appropriate and effective for the moment. I am a psychiatrist that spends time with patients.
(513) 434-6849 View (513) 434-6849
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. Let's navigate to your best you possible self. 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. It's time to clear the clutter! Book today!
When you are hurting and unable to focus due to anxiety, depression, addiction or whatever the problem, be it your own or someone else's, you want relief. Contact me, I am here to help. You are not alone. Let's navigate to your best you possible self. 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. It's time to clear the clutter! Book today!
(513) 613-9783 View (513) 613-9783
Photo of Darice Morgan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PNP-BC, FNP, PMHNP
Darice Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PNP-BC, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45208
I am a compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), specializing in ADHD, anxiety, and depression in children and young adults. With over 25 years of nursing experience, I use evidence-based practices to create individualized, effective treatment plans. I am triple board-certified as a PMHNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP-BC), offering a comprehensive approach to mental and physical health. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where young individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered in their care.
I am a compassionate Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), specializing in ADHD, anxiety, and depression in children and young adults. With over 25 years of nursing experience, I use evidence-based practices to create individualized, effective treatment plans. I am triple board-certified as a PMHNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP-BC), offering a comprehensive approach to mental and physical health. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where young individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered in their care.
(513) 972-4787 View (513) 972-4787
Photo of Tonya Edmondson - Path of Goodness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Path of Goodness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45211
As a Non profit Cincinnati Urban Promise (CUP) partner; My treatment Philosophy is to build rapport, strengthen patients, families, and restore the communities. My treatment goal is geared toward patient-centered goals. I am committed to serving people of all cultures and ages across the lifespan starting age 6 years old to Geriatric population. I take great pride in improving both mental and physical health for the targeted population.
As a Non profit Cincinnati Urban Promise (CUP) partner; My treatment Philosophy is to build rapport, strengthen patients, families, and restore the communities. My treatment goal is geared toward patient-centered goals. I am committed to serving people of all cultures and ages across the lifespan starting age 6 years old to Geriatric population. I take great pride in improving both mental and physical health for the targeted population.
(513) 966-5351 View (513) 966-5351
Photo of Dr. Adrienne McCray - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
West Chester, OH 45069
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(513) 790-2629 View (513) 790-2629

See more therapy options for 45205

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45205

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45205 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Medication Management
86% Grief
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% CareSource
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 45205 see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45205?

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.