Psychiatrists in 45225

My name is Skye Willen, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong passion for working with both pediatric and adult populations. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care, helping individuals achieve well-being and improve their quality of life. In my free time, I love to travel and take photographs. I also enjoy reading, hiking, swimming, and skiing. Walking my dog and spending time with my family are some of my favorite ways to relax and recharge.
My name is Skye Willen, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong passion for working with both pediatric and adult populations. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care, helping individuals achieve well-being and improve their quality of life. In my free time, I love to travel and take photographs. I also enjoy reading, hiking, swimming, and skiing. Walking my dog and spending time with my family are some of my favorite ways to relax and recharge.

Hello, I am Fatimah, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who have been in practice over the last 8 years, with experience working in inpatient, outpatient and crisis settings. Do you suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, mood swings, eating disorders, insomnia, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders or substance abuse? I'm here because of you and I care about you. To book your appointment go to https:/centralbehavioralclinic.com/.
Hello, I am Fatimah, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who have been in practice over the last 8 years, with experience working in inpatient, outpatient and crisis settings. Do you suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, mood swings, eating disorders, insomnia, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders or substance abuse? I'm here because of you and I care about you. To book your appointment go to https:/centralbehavioralclinic.com/.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Darice Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
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.

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.

Greetings. My name is Deirdre Raimey. I have been a board certified family nurse practitioner for the past 14 years, and a family systems psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 8 years. I received all of my nursing education at Case Western Reserve University. For the past 8 years I have provided outpatient behavioral healthcare to adults in the Greater Cleveland area.
Greetings. My name is Deirdre Raimey. I have been a board certified family nurse practitioner for the past 14 years, and a family systems psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 8 years. I received all of my nursing education at Case Western Reserve University. For the past 8 years I have provided outpatient behavioral healthcare to adults in the Greater Cleveland area.

Dr Razik is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over 20 years. Throughout her career she has helped thousands of patients overcome their mental health struggles though medication management and a combination of supportive and psychodynamic psychotherapy. She graduated from Ain Shams University School of Medicine in 1992 and went on to do her psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after which she became board-certified.
Dr Razik is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over 20 years. Throughout her career she has helped thousands of patients overcome their mental health struggles though medication management and a combination of supportive and psychodynamic psychotherapy. She graduated from Ain Shams University School of Medicine in 1992 and went on to do her psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after which she became board-certified.

Brenda Alexander-O'neil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45242
If you or a loved one are suffering from an OCD or an anxiety disorder you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness and yet most sufferers do not have access effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety there is help. There are medication management options that have been shown to be effective and can be paired with evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques such CBT to maximize treatment effects.
If you or a loved one are suffering from an OCD or an anxiety disorder you are not alone. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness and yet most sufferers do not have access effective treatment. The good news is that if you or your loved one is troubled with unwanted thoughts or worries, physical symptoms due to anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, health fears, or any other anxiety there is help. There are medication management options that have been shown to be effective and can be paired with evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques such CBT to maximize treatment effects.

Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.

Mindful Psychiatry & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
My focus is to improve outcomes and overall health through the use of evidence based practice. This means not simply prescribing to treat the diagnosis, but considering what recent studies indicate as being most beneficial in improving symptoms and overall quality of life. This may include a combination of medication, natural supplements, physical activity, light therapy and/or other treatment options proven to best manage the condition. I believe including the patient in the development of their plan of care also leads to optimal improvement in overall health.
My focus is to improve outcomes and overall health through the use of evidence based practice. This means not simply prescribing to treat the diagnosis, but considering what recent studies indicate as being most beneficial in improving symptoms and overall quality of life. This may include a combination of medication, natural supplements, physical activity, light therapy and/or other treatment options proven to best manage the condition. I believe including the patient in the development of their plan of care also leads to optimal improvement in overall health.

Rachel Keiser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45239
I'm happy that you are taking the time to research providers that can assist in treating your mental health needs. Feeling down, anxious, or as though "something is just not right...," should not be the norm- there is help out there. I will work with you- making your wants and needs my priority- to optimize your mental health and help you achieve your goals.
I'm happy that you are taking the time to research providers that can assist in treating your mental health needs. Feeling down, anxious, or as though "something is just not right...," should not be the norm- there is help out there. I will work with you- making your wants and needs my priority- to optimize your mental health and help you achieve your goals.

Hi there! I am Lonna Larger and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you on your path to wellness. I practice evidence-based medicine with a focus on trauma-informed care. Are you struggling with anxiety or flashbacks? Do you feel as if no one listens? Please come see me. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you would like to schedule an intake with me, please call 859-572-0400.
Hi there! I am Lonna Larger and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you on your path to wellness. I practice evidence-based medicine with a focus on trauma-informed care. Are you struggling with anxiety or flashbacks? Do you feel as if no one listens? Please come see me. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you would like to schedule an intake with me, please call 859-572-0400.

Nafresha Abuaun Private Practice LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.

My health care career began in 2003 as a Registered Nurse and has evolved into the Advanced Practiced Registered Nurse that I am today. I have specialized in the areas of Critical Care, Geriatrics, and Mental/Behavioral Health as a registered nurse. My passion for mental health and well-being led me to further my studies and become Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
My health care career began in 2003 as a Registered Nurse and has evolved into the Advanced Practiced Registered Nurse that I am today. I have specialized in the areas of Critical Care, Geriatrics, and Mental/Behavioral Health as a registered nurse. My passion for mental health and well-being led me to further my studies and become Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Dr. Karen Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FAAN
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
When you are hurting and unable to focus due to anxiety, depression, addiction or whatever the problem, be it your own or someone else's, you want relief. Contact me, I am here to help. You are not alone. I want to help you navigate to your best form possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I feel your pain and I am here to help. Book a session with me 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. I want to help you navigate to your best form possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I feel your pain and I am here to help. Book a session with me today.

Many people struggle with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or OCD, and may feel overwhelmed by their journey. You might be looking for a compassionate professional who can help you navigate these struggles with support and understanding. Your goal is to regain balance, find peace, and improve overall wellness. You want a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs—whether through medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches—so you can lead a fulfilling life.
Many people struggle with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or OCD, and may feel overwhelmed by their journey. You might be looking for a compassionate professional who can help you navigate these struggles with support and understanding. Your goal is to regain balance, find peace, and improve overall wellness. You want a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs—whether through medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches—so you can lead a fulfilling life.

Heather Duehren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Heather, a Cincinnati native, is a nurse practitioner with nearly 10yrs of experience, most recently practicing in Texas. Her experience includes various roles within mental health, including inpatient and outpatient care, various treatment modalities such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electroconvulsive treatment (ECT), among others. Heather is passionate about mental health and facilitating acceptance and understanding through compassion and education for individuals who suffer with illness, and those they love, and helping others be the best version of themselves.
Heather, a Cincinnati native, is a nurse practitioner with nearly 10yrs of experience, most recently practicing in Texas. Her experience includes various roles within mental health, including inpatient and outpatient care, various treatment modalities such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electroconvulsive treatment (ECT), among others. Heather is passionate about mental health and facilitating acceptance and understanding through compassion and education for individuals who suffer with illness, and those they love, and helping others be the best version of themselves.

Jennifer M. Suffridge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My treatment philosophy starts with the fact that I believe that every human being is unique, and deserves to be happy and to be treated with dignity. I have been working for my entire adult life in the medical field. I worked for many years as a critical care nurse, treating men and women suffering from severe, life-threatning illnesses. As I saw individuals and families struggling with pain and illness, I became gradually more interested in focusing on people's inner, mental well-being. I was fortunate to be able to train as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am availabe to treat any patients in the State of Ohio.
My treatment philosophy starts with the fact that I believe that every human being is unique, and deserves to be happy and to be treated with dignity. I have been working for my entire adult life in the medical field. I worked for many years as a critical care nurse, treating men and women suffering from severe, life-threatning illnesses. As I saw individuals and families struggling with pain and illness, I became gradually more interested in focusing on people's inner, mental well-being. I was fortunate to be able to train as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am availabe to treat any patients in the State of Ohio.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in psychiatry and five years of experience in treating addiction and alcohol dependence, and I am only licensed in Ohio. I specialize in providing mental health services for clients who have depression, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, social anxiety, post-partum depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, tourette's disorder, excoriation skin-picking disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmare disorder, night-tear disorder, eating disorders, etc.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in psychiatry and five years of experience in treating addiction and alcohol dependence, and I am only licensed in Ohio. I specialize in providing mental health services for clients who have depression, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, social anxiety, post-partum depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, tourette's disorder, excoriation skin-picking disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmare disorder, night-tear disorder, eating disorders, etc.

I am a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in the nursing field 12 years. I have worked within a variety of areas including mental health, critical care, and emergency medicine. I can assist and coordinate with therapists to achieve optimal recovery from your psychiatric symptoms.
I am a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in the nursing field 12 years. I have worked within a variety of areas including mental health, critical care, and emergency medicine. I can assist and coordinate with therapists to achieve optimal recovery from your psychiatric symptoms.

Kimberly Swartz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I’m Kimberly. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in health care. I provide holistic integrative care, and I am glad you are here! Seeking help can be a bit overwhelming and perhaps even scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
Hello! I’m Kimberly. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in health care. I provide holistic integrative care, and I am glad you are here! Seeking help can be a bit overwhelming and perhaps even scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
See more therapy options for 45225
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 45225
< 10
Psychiatrists in 45225 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 45225 see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 45225?
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.