Psychiatrists in 45219

Photo of Dr. Patricia Latimer, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Patricia Latimer
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45219
Hello! I'm currently taking new patients as of July 2026. I'm a psychiatrist who considers the whole person when treating mental illness. My approach to mental health care is holistic and individualized based on your needs, using nutrition and lifestyle, psychotherapy, and medication management if needed. I've used a ketogenic diet as well in treating some of my patients, but this is not a necessary part of treatment.
Hello! I'm currently taking new patients as of July 2026. I'm a psychiatrist who considers the whole person when treating mental illness. My approach to mental health care is holistic and individualized based on your needs, using nutrition and lifestyle, psychotherapy, and medication management if needed. I've used a ketogenic diet as well in treating some of my patients, but this is not a necessary part of treatment.
(513) 960-6526 View (513) 960-6526
Photo of Cara Mueller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cara Mueller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45219
Hi, I'm Cara! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio, and I work with teens and adults who are tired of feeling stuck. Maybe you've wondered if medication could help but don't know where to start — or you've had a bad experience and aren't sure you want to try again. Maybe you just know something feels off, but you can't quite name it. That's exactly where I come in. If you've felt like a number at other appointments, I want to be different. You'll never leave a session wondering what just happened or why you're taking what I prescribed. I want you informed, involved, and actually feeling better.
Hi, I'm Cara! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio, and I work with teens and adults who are tired of feeling stuck. Maybe you've wondered if medication could help but don't know where to start — or you've had a bad experience and aren't sure you want to try again. Maybe you just know something feels off, but you can't quite name it. That's exactly where I come in. If you've felt like a number at other appointments, I want to be different. You'll never leave a session wondering what just happened or why you're taking what I prescribed. I want you informed, involved, and actually feeling better.
(513) 547-2097 View (513) 547-2097
Photo of Elihu L Godshalk, Psychiatrist, MD
Elihu L Godshalk
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45219
My practice is focused on helping people with substance use and other mental health problems. Board certified in both adult psychiatry and addiction psychiatry, I believe people benefit most when high quality therapy is combined with evidence-based medication management, including naltrexone and buprenorphine for patients who struggle with opioid addiction. The doctor-patient relationship is central to my treatment philosophy, and I provide care in a warm and accepting environment.
My practice is focused on helping people with substance use and other mental health problems. Board certified in both adult psychiatry and addiction psychiatry, I believe people benefit most when high quality therapy is combined with evidence-based medication management, including naltrexone and buprenorphine for patients who struggle with opioid addiction. The doctor-patient relationship is central to my treatment philosophy, and I provide care in a warm and accepting environment.
(513) 449-2485 View (513) 449-2485
Photo of Joel Ellison, Psychiatrist, MD
Joel Ellison
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45219
My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both, I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both, I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
(513) 815-3625 View (513) 815-3625
Photo of Dr. Paul R. Crosby, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Dr. Paul R. Crosby
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Cincinnati, OH 45219
Our mental health is foundational. It shapes every decision we make, every relationship we form, and how we move through our lives. Mental wellness enables intention and action to align, making it possible to be present through life’s moments fully as ourselves. Many find this journey to be less about becoming someone different and more about understanding and managing what gets in the way—so the self that's always been there can be expressed with greater ease, clarity, and impact.
Our mental health is foundational. It shapes every decision we make, every relationship we form, and how we move through our lives. Mental wellness enables intention and action to align, making it possible to be present through life’s moments fully as ourselves. Many find this journey to be less about becoming someone different and more about understanding and managing what gets in the way—so the self that's always been there can be expressed with greater ease, clarity, and impact.
(216) 677-3171 View (216) 677-3171
Photo of Daniel Almeida, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Almeida
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45219
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I have dedicated my career to assisting persons going through challenging times that may have affected their academic/professional lives, relationships, and ability to cope and find purpose. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. In my practice, we focus on the patient, their family, and their community.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I have dedicated my career to assisting persons going through challenging times that may have affected their academic/professional lives, relationships, and ability to cope and find purpose. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. In my practice, we focus on the patient, their family, and their community.
(513) 916-3519 x360 View (513) 916-3519 x360
Photo of Martha Lee Walden - Ascend Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Ascend Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45219
All of our practitioners at Ascend Behavioral Health deliver traditional behavioral healthcare provided in a comfortable and non-judgmental setting. We provide services in a way that harkens back to a simpler time. Our offices are located within walking distance to Christ Hospital housed inside a beautiful, timeless historic building dating back to the Lincoln presidency. We treat patients with all varieties of mental illness on an outpatient basis both in-person and online. We treat our patients in a non-corporate environment so that every patient is given individual attention and strict confidentiality.
All of our practitioners at Ascend Behavioral Health deliver traditional behavioral healthcare provided in a comfortable and non-judgmental setting. We provide services in a way that harkens back to a simpler time. Our offices are located within walking distance to Christ Hospital housed inside a beautiful, timeless historic building dating back to the Lincoln presidency. We treat patients with all varieties of mental illness on an outpatient basis both in-person and online. We treat our patients in a non-corporate environment so that every patient is given individual attention and strict confidentiality.
(513) 643-2003 View (513) 643-2003
Photo of Mei Chiang - MC Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
MC Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Serves Area
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 Danny E. Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny E. Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
(567) 229-3039 View (567) 229-3039

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Calli Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Calli Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Milford, OH 45150
Specializing in anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, men’s and women’s issues, psychosis/schizophrenia, sleep disorders/insomnia, and grief, Calli is dedicated to helping her clients achieve optimal mental wellness. She is particularly passionate about addressing the mental health needs of individuals with medical comorbidities, including those with oncology, cardiology, and pulmonology issues. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other nonpharmacological interventions, Calli empowers her patients to manage psychiatric symptoms effectively.
Specializing in anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, men’s and women’s issues, psychosis/schizophrenia, sleep disorders/insomnia, and grief, Calli is dedicated to helping her clients achieve optimal mental wellness. She is particularly passionate about addressing the mental health needs of individuals with medical comorbidities, including those with oncology, cardiology, and pulmonology issues. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other nonpharmacological interventions, Calli empowers her patients to manage psychiatric symptoms effectively.
(513) 935-3706 View (513) 935-3706
Photo of Elizabeth Fox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Elizabeth Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
3 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Mental health is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone deserves to have their unique needs heard and validated. If you're experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, or struggling with focus, attention, or motivation, I'm here to offer support. My goal is to help you achieve yours.
Mental health is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone deserves to have their unique needs heard and validated. If you're experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, or struggling with focus, attention, or motivation, I'm here to offer support. My goal is to help you achieve yours.
(513) 914-3673 View (513) 914-3673
Photo of Eric Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eric Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Liberty Township, OH 45044
Hi, I’m Eric. I’ve worked in mental health care for nearly 15 years, with much of my background in high-acuity Emergency Psychiatry. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced in treating depression, anxiety, trauma-related conditions, and serious mental illness, including psychotic disorders. I also work with individuals navigating sexual and gender identity concerns. In addition to clinical care, I’ve held senior leadership roles in outpatient psychiatry, which informs my organized, evidence-based approach. I currently see patients through LifeStance, providing thoughtful, collaborative psychiatric care focused
Hi, I’m Eric. I’ve worked in mental health care for nearly 15 years, with much of my background in high-acuity Emergency Psychiatry. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced in treating depression, anxiety, trauma-related conditions, and serious mental illness, including psychotic disorders. I also work with individuals navigating sexual and gender identity concerns. In addition to clinical care, I’ve held senior leadership roles in outpatient psychiatry, which informs my organized, evidence-based approach. I currently see patients through LifeStance, providing thoughtful, collaborative psychiatric care focused
(513) 643-5915 x1 View (513) 643-5915 x1
Photo of Cynthia Diane Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Cynthia Diane Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Cincinnati, OH 45227
My approach to care is rooted in open-mindedness and affirmation, ensuring that every person who seeks support can do so with the confidence that their unique identity will be respected and celebrated. Together, we will navigate the complexities of your journey, helping you rise above conflicts with grace and resilience.
My approach to care is rooted in open-mindedness and affirmation, ensuring that every person who seeks support can do so with the confidence that their unique identity will be respected and celebrated. Together, we will navigate the complexities of your journey, helping you rise above conflicts with grace and resilience.
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Photo of Edan Gilat, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, NBPAS
Edan Gilat
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, NBPAS
Serves Area
Many of the adults who seek treatment are struggling in areas of life that matter deeply to them, whether in work, academics, relationships, or a broader sense of direction and fulfillment. Often, these frustrations arise from a combination of past experiences, including trauma and other difficult life experiences, current environment, biological factors, and patterns of coping that no longer serve them well. I work collaboratively with each individual, with attention to the full picture of symptoms, history, goals, and daily functioning, in order to help them move forward in a thoughtful and practical way.
Many of the adults who seek treatment are struggling in areas of life that matter deeply to them, whether in work, academics, relationships, or a broader sense of direction and fulfillment. Often, these frustrations arise from a combination of past experiences, including trauma and other difficult life experiences, current environment, biological factors, and patterns of coping that no longer serve them well. I work collaboratively with each individual, with attention to the full picture of symptoms, history, goals, and daily functioning, in order to help them move forward in a thoughtful and practical way.
(380) 208-1549 View (380) 208-1549
Photo of LaToya Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LaToya Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cincinnati, OH 45220
I have been a nurse since 2009, and my practice is built on a foundation of clinical expertise and a deep commitment to long-term wellness. My path has been shaped by more than just textbooks—navigating trauma, raising a family, and the joy of being a grandparent have all fueled my empathy. I understand the complexities of life firsthand, and I use that perspective to connect with patients from all walks of life. My mission is to provide you with the tools and support needed to build resilience and honor your unique story.
I have been a nurse since 2009, and my practice is built on a foundation of clinical expertise and a deep commitment to long-term wellness. My path has been shaped by more than just textbooks—navigating trauma, raising a family, and the joy of being a grandparent have all fueled my empathy. I understand the complexities of life firsthand, and I use that perspective to connect with patients from all walks of life. My mission is to provide you with the tools and support needed to build resilience and honor your unique story.
(440) 664-2732 View (440) 664-2732
Photo of Denise Dews - Denise Dews, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Denise Dews, MSN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
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Photo of Breanna Millsap, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your consultation today.
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your consultation today.
(220) 220-6063 View (220) 220-6063
Photo of Angela Ellard - Angela Ellard, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Angela Ellard, DNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Professional Background: I have extensive training and experience in psychiatric and mental health care. My education and clinical training have equipped me with the skills needed to address a wide range of mental health issues. Personal Approach: I am passionate about helping individuals achieve better mental health and well-being. My approach is compassionate, empathetic, and client-centered. I believe in treating each person with respect, dignity, and kindness. I provide comprehensive mental health care, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric conditions.
Professional Background: I have extensive training and experience in psychiatric and mental health care. My education and clinical training have equipped me with the skills needed to address a wide range of mental health issues. Personal Approach: I am passionate about helping individuals achieve better mental health and well-being. My approach is compassionate, empathetic, and client-centered. I believe in treating each person with respect, dignity, and kindness. I provide comprehensive mental health care, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric conditions.
(513) 951-3572 View (513) 951-3572
Photo of Richard Rutz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, ARNP-BC
Richard Rutz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, ARNP-BC
Cincinnati, OH 45241
I've been a practicing psychiatric nurse since 1994 and as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2005. Many areas of treatment have included mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD/trauma related issues and eating disorders. Working at many different levels of care, including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient has allowed me to see mental health at a variety of intensities. I believe in the motivation of the individual and integrating with their health care team to allow the individual to function at the highest level. We are using Zoom to provide quality and safe tele-health sessions.
I've been a practicing psychiatric nurse since 1994 and as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2005. Many areas of treatment have included mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD/trauma related issues and eating disorders. Working at many different levels of care, including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient has allowed me to see mental health at a variety of intensities. I believe in the motivation of the individual and integrating with their health care team to allow the individual to function at the highest level. We are using Zoom to provide quality and safe tele-health sessions.
(513) 815-3108 View (513) 815-3108
Photo of Sarah Jacobs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Sarah Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Liberty Township, OH 45044
Sarah is particularly passionate about supporting patients who have recently been discharged from a psychiatric hospital. She works with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, as well as those addressing alcohol and drug use issues. Using evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, she collaborates with patients to develop practical strategies for managing symptoms and fostering resilience.
Sarah is particularly passionate about supporting patients who have recently been discharged from a psychiatric hospital. She works with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, as well as those addressing alcohol and drug use issues. Using evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, she collaborates with patients to develop practical strategies for managing symptoms and fostering resilience.
(513) 712-8036 View (513) 712-8036

See more therapy options for 45219

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45219

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45219 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
89% ADHD
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 45219 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45219?

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.