Psychiatrists in 45390

Photo of Mina Devine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Mina Devine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Doctorate Prepared, Family Board Certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I see clients from ages 5 to 75 years old. I am a clinician that strives to provide care with honesty and compassion. I will actively listen to your needs and be honest with you about the ways I can help. I welcome full transparency from my clients. I really want to know how you are feeling and how treatment is working for you.
I am a Doctorate Prepared, Family Board Certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I see clients from ages 5 to 75 years old. I am a clinician that strives to provide care with honesty and compassion. I will actively listen to your needs and be honest with you about the ways I can help. I welcome full transparency from my clients. I really want to know how you are feeling and how treatment is working for you.
(216) 294-2422 View (216) 294-2422

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nichole McCoy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Nichole McCoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Eaton, OH 45320
Are you struggling with feelings of self-doubt and confusion, or even deal with the trap of negative self-talk. Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in a thousand directions, find it hard to fit in, struggle with relationships, balance life, work and your health? No motivation, feelings lonely, and struggling to get out of bed? Struggling sleeping too much or barely at all with a constant energy? You deserve a safe space to talk, heal, and get to the root of what is weighing you down. Reaching out for help can be scary and brave, and I am here to compassionately guide, encourage, and support you through med-management and therapy.
Are you struggling with feelings of self-doubt and confusion, or even deal with the trap of negative self-talk. Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in a thousand directions, find it hard to fit in, struggle with relationships, balance life, work and your health? No motivation, feelings lonely, and struggling to get out of bed? Struggling sleeping too much or barely at all with a constant energy? You deserve a safe space to talk, heal, and get to the root of what is weighing you down. Reaching out for help can be scary and brave, and I am here to compassionately guide, encourage, and support you through med-management and therapy.
(937) 735-0246 View (937) 735-0246

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Angela Rinaldi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Angela Rinaldi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 5 years of experience in mental health care. I hold a master’s in nursing education and a Post-Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Walden University. I specialize in holistic, patient-centered care for adults, treating conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, with a focus on first responders and veterans. I use evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach to create personalized treatment plans, including medication management and crisis intervention.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 5 years of experience in mental health care. I hold a master’s in nursing education and a Post-Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Walden University. I specialize in holistic, patient-centered care for adults, treating conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, with a focus on first responders and veterans. I use evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach to create personalized treatment plans, including medication management and crisis intervention.
(380) 600-8489 View (380) 600-8489
Julianna Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Columbus, OH 43219
Julianna’s areas of focus include addressing midlife transitions, PTSD/trauma, and sleep disorders. She is passionate about helping clients overcome the emotional and physical impacts of these conditions through thoughtful and personalized treatment plans. Her dedication to patient-centered care ensures that individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered throughout their mental health journey. Outside of her professional practice, Julianna enjoys spending time with her husband, their five dogs, and two cats. She is an active member of her local church and finds fulfillment in traveling and connecting with friends and family.
Julianna’s areas of focus include addressing midlife transitions, PTSD/trauma, and sleep disorders. She is passionate about helping clients overcome the emotional and physical impacts of these conditions through thoughtful and personalized treatment plans. Her dedication to patient-centered care ensures that individuals feel heard, validated, and empowered throughout their mental health journey. Outside of her professional practice, Julianna enjoys spending time with her husband, their five dogs, and two cats. She is an active member of her local church and finds fulfillment in traveling and connecting with friends and family.
(740) 762-4516 View (740) 762-4516
Photo of Tessa Ryan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tessa Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric medication management. I have experience treating a wide range of mental health issues in both adult women and men. I aim to partner with my clients and take a trauma informed, comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate approach to care. This includes working in collaboration with my clients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that my care is safe, effective, evidenced based, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric medication management. I have experience treating a wide range of mental health issues in both adult women and men. I aim to partner with my clients and take a trauma informed, comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate approach to care. This includes working in collaboration with my clients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that my care is safe, effective, evidenced based, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
(614) 665-8045 View (614) 665-8045
Photo of Veronica Dwamena, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Veronica Dwamena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I'm a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I received my master's from Walden University and have been practicing for 2 and a half years.
Hello, I'm a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I received my master's from Walden University and have been practicing for 2 and a half years.
(513) 927-9816 View (513) 927-9816
Photo of Jennifer Eckhardt - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN
Orient, OH 43146
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.
(740) 609-2504 View (740) 609-2504
Photo of Amanda Baranyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Amanda Baranyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Cincinnati, OH 45255
I provide psychiatric medications and counseling for people suffering from anxiety, depression, stressful life situations, and various other mental health disorders. I believe that good treatment starts with an in-depth consultation so that we can ensure that you have had the chance to clearly articulate what your difficulties are. Therefore, my initial sessions are 90 minutes long, and this also gives us a chance to see if it's easy for us to communicate. I prefer to meet in person, but I understand that virtual may be more convenient for some people, especially those who do not live in my area. Follow up sessions are 45 min.
I provide psychiatric medications and counseling for people suffering from anxiety, depression, stressful life situations, and various other mental health disorders. I believe that good treatment starts with an in-depth consultation so that we can ensure that you have had the chance to clearly articulate what your difficulties are. Therefore, my initial sessions are 90 minutes long, and this also gives us a chance to see if it's easy for us to communicate. I prefer to meet in person, but I understand that virtual may be more convenient for some people, especially those who do not live in my area. Follow up sessions are 45 min.
(513) 951-4609 View (513) 951-4609
Photo of Paige Malone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Paige Malone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
I received my Master's from The Ohio State University and am a board-certified PMHNP. I can provide diagnostic testing and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions and am accepting new clients! I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care to children (age 6+), adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health struggles. My approach is rooted in empathy and a belief in empowering individuals to make educated decisions about their treatment options. I believe in patient-centered care and working with my patients to develop individualized plans that align with their unique goals/preferences.
I received my Master's from The Ohio State University and am a board-certified PMHNP. I can provide diagnostic testing and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions and am accepting new clients! I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care to children (age 6+), adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health struggles. My approach is rooted in empathy and a belief in empowering individuals to make educated decisions about their treatment options. I believe in patient-centered care and working with my patients to develop individualized plans that align with their unique goals/preferences.
(740) 720-2908 View (740) 720-2908
Photo of Edan 'doctor G' Gilat, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, NBPAS
Edan 'doctor G' Gilat
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, NBPAS
Online Only
As a psychiatrist, I have the opportunity to help others achieve their own personal aspirations whether it be in the domain profession, academics and/or relationships. I believe that each individual is unique and that the frustrations that he or she encounters in the pursuit of his or her dreams likely arise from past experiences, current environment, skill sets and also biology. I find the experience of diagnosing and treating adult ADHD especially rewarding as this condition is under diagnosed and is often effectively addressed with the correct medications and skills training.
As a psychiatrist, I have the opportunity to help others achieve their own personal aspirations whether it be in the domain profession, academics and/or relationships. I believe that each individual is unique and that the frustrations that he or she encounters in the pursuit of his or her dreams likely arise from past experiences, current environment, skill sets and also biology. I find the experience of diagnosing and treating adult ADHD especially rewarding as this condition is under diagnosed and is often effectively addressed with the correct medications and skills training.
(740) 831-3381 View (740) 831-3381
Photo of Bebongchu Nkemasong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bebongchu Nkemasong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I earned a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the distinguished Ohio State University. With experience in treating patients aged 18 and up, I'm adept at confronting numerous mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, and psychosis. My mission is to provide a professional, inclusive, and patient-centered method of behavioral healthcare, ensuring clients receive the most optimal care without fear of stigmatization or discrimination.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I earned a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the distinguished Ohio State University. With experience in treating patients aged 18 and up, I'm adept at confronting numerous mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, and psychosis. My mission is to provide a professional, inclusive, and patient-centered method of behavioral healthcare, ensuring clients receive the most optimal care without fear of stigmatization or discrimination.
(513) 845-2120 View (513) 845-2120
Photo of Hima Kode, Psychiatrist, MD
Hima Kode
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Dr. Kode is a compassionate psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She focuses on personalized care and evidence-based approaches to empower her clients in their journey to mental well-being. They may be grappling with a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. With empathy and expertise, Dr. Kode provides a supportive and safe environment to help individuals achieve their goals.
Dr. Kode is a compassionate psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She focuses on personalized care and evidence-based approaches to empower her clients in their journey to mental well-being. They may be grappling with a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. With empathy and expertise, Dr. Kode provides a supportive and safe environment to help individuals achieve their goals.
(513) 998-7510 View (513) 998-7510
Photo of Pamela Pardon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Pardon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Pamela D. Pardõn is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and sole proprietor of Pearls of Wisdom Psychiatric Services LLC, established in August 2019, located in Lorain, Ohio. Pamela began her nursing career as an LPN, eventually earning a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing across the lifespan at Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Pamela has been a nurse for over 40 years. Pamela has delivered psychiatric care to individuals on inpatient and outpatient behavioral health units
Pamela D. Pardõn is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and sole proprietor of Pearls of Wisdom Psychiatric Services LLC, established in August 2019, located in Lorain, Ohio. Pamela began her nursing career as an LPN, eventually earning a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing across the lifespan at Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Pamela has been a nurse for over 40 years. Pamela has delivered psychiatric care to individuals on inpatient and outpatient behavioral health units
(513) 957-4472 View (513) 957-4472
Photo of Mary Abbot, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Mary Abbot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Westerville, OH 43081
Mary Abbott, Certified Nurse Practitioner, graduated with Honors from Drexel University with a master's degree in Nursing and a Post Master's Certificate as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in general psychiatry and currently treats adults 18 years or older. Mary has a special interest in treating a variety of disorders including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Ms. Abbott also holds a certificate as a Woman's Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience.
Mary Abbott, Certified Nurse Practitioner, graduated with Honors from Drexel University with a master's degree in Nursing and a Post Master's Certificate as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in general psychiatry and currently treats adults 18 years or older. Mary has a special interest in treating a variety of disorders including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Ms. Abbott also holds a certificate as a Woman's Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience.
(380) 205-0116 View (380) 205-0116
Babu Gupta
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241
I have developed a reputation for strong diagnostic skills and thorough understanding of treatment options, based on evidence and experience. I genuinely connect with my patients and try to earn their trust. I feel comfortable with all adults and have extra interest in senior care, providing services in office and long term care facilities.. But I love taking care of younger adults as well, late high school and beyond. I have been frequently recognized by my physician peers as a "Top Doctor" in the Cincinnati area through the years.
I have developed a reputation for strong diagnostic skills and thorough understanding of treatment options, based on evidence and experience. I genuinely connect with my patients and try to earn their trust. I feel comfortable with all adults and have extra interest in senior care, providing services in office and long term care facilities.. But I love taking care of younger adults as well, late high school and beyond. I have been frequently recognized by my physician peers as a "Top Doctor" in the Cincinnati area through the years.
(513) 796-5961 View (513) 796-5961
Photo of Danielle Khan - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Hilliard, OH 43026
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.
(380) 600-8854 View (380) 600-8854
Photo of Kathryn Hendricks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Kathryn Hendricks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Westerville, OH 43082
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
(614) 660-5691 View (614) 660-5691
Photo of Julia Mason Jubb, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julia Mason Jubb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! I’m certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio and Montana. I graduated with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in Healthcare Systems Leadership and am dual certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and a PMHNP. I help patients from young children to older adults with mental health treatment that can include medication, processing difficulties, and working on coping skills and healthy lifestyle.
Hi! I’m certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio and Montana. I graduated with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in Healthcare Systems Leadership and am dual certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and a PMHNP. I help patients from young children to older adults with mental health treatment that can include medication, processing difficulties, and working on coping skills and healthy lifestyle.
(614) 877-8559 View (614) 877-8559
Photo of Christabel Ahenkan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Christabel Ahenkan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Christabel Ahenkan, Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner. I hold masters in Nursing, has 3 years experience with addiction and behavioral services. The area of therapy I specialized in Cognitive Behavioral therapy, specialize treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, Postpartum depression. My therapeutic approach is more holistic and evidence base practice. I see patient between 18 years and above. I see patient how and when them need help provide safe and non judgement.
My name is Christabel Ahenkan, Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner. I hold masters in Nursing, has 3 years experience with addiction and behavioral services. The area of therapy I specialized in Cognitive Behavioral therapy, specialize treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, Postpartum depression. My therapeutic approach is more holistic and evidence base practice. I see patient between 18 years and above. I see patient how and when them need help provide safe and non judgement.
(740) 720-2402 View (740) 720-2402
Photo of Kelly Clark, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelly Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you someone who is navigating the feeling of being overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward? Do you struggle with constant worry, low motivation, or difficulty focusing, which impacts your relationships, career, or personal fulfillment? You may not have all the answers yet, but if you're ready to take that first step, and you value working with someone who combines empathy with expertise, I can guide you along the way.
Are you someone who is navigating the feeling of being overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward? Do you struggle with constant worry, low motivation, or difficulty focusing, which impacts your relationships, career, or personal fulfillment? You may not have all the answers yet, but if you're ready to take that first step, and you value working with someone who combines empathy with expertise, I can guide you along the way.
(513) 540-4001 View (513) 540-4001

See more therapy options for 45390

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45390

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45390 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% Life Coaching
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis
100% Anger Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 45390 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45390?

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.