Psychiatrists in 45401

Photo of Bryan Espinet - Bryan Espinet, PMHNP - A to Z Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Bryan Espinet, PMHNP - A to Z Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to a space where healing begins. Hi! I’m Bryan, and I help high-achieving professionals, immigrants, children and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma to overcome challenges and discover their best selves. I understand the pressures of success and the struggles of adapting to new cultures, and I'm dedicated to helping you find balance and fulfillment. Using an integrative approach, I offer personalized care that connects mind, body, and spirit. I believe you are whole; deep within you exists all you need to heal and grow. It's my mission to guide you back to that space and unlock your full potential.
Welcome to a space where healing begins. Hi! I’m Bryan, and I help high-achieving professionals, immigrants, children and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma to overcome challenges and discover their best selves. I understand the pressures of success and the struggles of adapting to new cultures, and I'm dedicated to helping you find balance and fulfillment. Using an integrative approach, I offer personalized care that connects mind, body, and spirit. I believe you are whole; deep within you exists all you need to heal and grow. It's my mission to guide you back to that space and unlock your full potential.
(813) 547-6086 View (813) 547-6086

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jordan Rhyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jordan Rhyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Jordan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees patients of all ages for a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other traumas, peri/postpartum depression and others. She has in person office appointment visits available as well as virtual visits. She is committed to creating a safe, caring and non-judgmental space for her patients so that they can receive the best care possible.
Jordan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees patients of all ages for a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other traumas, peri/postpartum depression and others. She has in person office appointment visits available as well as virtual visits. She is committed to creating a safe, caring and non-judgmental space for her patients so that they can receive the best care possible.
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Photo of Emilie Breeding - WoodStream Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
WoodStream Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Compassion. Connection. Collaboration. Mental Health Support Serving the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. Our WSW Team includes board certified specialists committed to treating, inspiring, empowering, nurturing, and supporting the human spirit. Our office is proud to offer both prescribers for medication management and therapists for psychotherapy. At WSW, we are devoted to not only upholding, but surpassing standards of mental health care and our clients’ expectations. We serve the Southwest Ohio Area with honor.
Compassion. Connection. Collaboration. Mental Health Support Serving the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. Our WSW Team includes board certified specialists committed to treating, inspiring, empowering, nurturing, and supporting the human spirit. Our office is proud to offer both prescribers for medication management and therapists for psychotherapy. At WSW, we are devoted to not only upholding, but surpassing standards of mental health care and our clients’ expectations. We serve the Southwest Ohio Area with honor.
(937) 358-8155 View (937) 358-8155
Photo of Lori Morgan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lori Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing exceptional, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. One of my guiding principles comes from Austrian neurologist Sigmund Freud, who said, “Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.”
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing exceptional, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. One of my guiding principles comes from Austrian neurologist Sigmund Freud, who said, “Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.”
(513) 805-0835 View (513) 805-0835
Photo of Nikki Ruoss, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Nikki Ruoss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Mason, OH 45040
Taking the first step in focusing on your mental wellness is huge—and can be a little overwhelming. Congratulations on making yourself a priority! My work focuses on the treatment and medication management of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in trauma, mindfulness-based therapy, and nutrition as it relates to mental health. I have a strong belief in creating an environment for decreasing mental health stigma, empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness, and leading fulfilling lives!
Taking the first step in focusing on your mental wellness is huge—and can be a little overwhelming. Congratulations on making yourself a priority! My work focuses on the treatment and medication management of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in trauma, mindfulness-based therapy, and nutrition as it relates to mental health. I have a strong belief in creating an environment for decreasing mental health stigma, empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness, and leading fulfilling lives!
(513) 949-4635 View (513) 949-4635
Photo of George Andrew Darling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
George Andrew Darling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!
(937) 632-1118 View (937) 632-1118
Photo of Dana Wiesenfeld, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Dana Wiesenfeld
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
(727) 594-8818 View (727) 594-8818
Angela Brandt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Mason, OH 45040
Angela is especially passionate about supporting those affected by ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complex ways these conditions can impact daily life, relationships, and self-esteem, and she takes a compassionate, clinically informed approach to care. By integrating evidence-based tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness strategies into her medication management sessions, Angela helps patients build coping skills while managing their symptoms effectively.
Angela is especially passionate about supporting those affected by ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complex ways these conditions can impact daily life, relationships, and self-esteem, and she takes a compassionate, clinically informed approach to care. By integrating evidence-based tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness strategies into her medication management sessions, Angela helps patients build coping skills while managing their symptoms effectively.
(513) 224-6969 View (513) 224-6969
Photo of Biaunka Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Biaunka Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Centerville, OH 45459
Biaunka Lee is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Biaunka helps her clients by being patient centered, empathetic, attentive, and dedicated to their needs. She involves her clients, so they feel they are a part of their care. Biaunka has gained experience in critical care, medical-surgical, and long-term care throughout her nursing career. Over the last 7 years, Biaunka has worked in mental health and provided education and assisted in meeting patients’ needs.
Biaunka Lee is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Biaunka helps her clients by being patient centered, empathetic, attentive, and dedicated to their needs. She involves her clients, so they feel they are a part of their care. Biaunka has gained experience in critical care, medical-surgical, and long-term care throughout her nursing career. Over the last 7 years, Biaunka has worked in mental health and provided education and assisted in meeting patients’ needs.
(937) 927-8985 View (937) 927-8985
Photo of Jason Marchant - Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS and IV Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS and IV Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45432
At Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS, and IV Therapy, we pride ourselves on our ability to change and impact lives in a healthy way. We believe it’s essential to invest in both your physical and mental well-being to enjoy a life full of joy, gratitude, and satisfaction. This belief guides our approach, including our services, teachings, and treatments. We are committed to providing you with exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. No matter why you’re visiting us, we offer comprehensive and excellent care. Curious to find out more? Get in touch with a member of our team today.
At Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS, and IV Therapy, we pride ourselves on our ability to change and impact lives in a healthy way. We believe it’s essential to invest in both your physical and mental well-being to enjoy a life full of joy, gratitude, and satisfaction. This belief guides our approach, including our services, teachings, and treatments. We are committed to providing you with exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. No matter why you’re visiting us, we offer comprehensive and excellent care. Curious to find out more? Get in touch with a member of our team today.
(937) 828-4586 View (937) 828-4586
Photo of LaVinda McAuliffe - OwlBridge Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
OwlBridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
3 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
(937) 744-4846 View (937) 744-4846
Photo of Donna Moeller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Donna Moeller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Dayton, OH 45414
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
(937) 858-5439 View (937) 858-5439
Photo of Heather Alexia Jackson-Chapman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Heather Alexia Jackson-Chapman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
West Carrollton, OH 45449
I bring a steady, compassionate, and deeply informed approach to psychiatric care. I understand that people often seek help during some of the most vulnerable and overwhelming moments of their lives- when symptoms feel unmanageable, past experiences resurface, or clarity and stability seem out of reach. Clients are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, or the cumulative effects of long-term stress. Others may feel misunderstood, dismissed, or discouraged by previous experiences in the healthcare system. Whether seeking symptom relief, emotional balance, or long-term resilience, help is here.
I bring a steady, compassionate, and deeply informed approach to psychiatric care. I understand that people often seek help during some of the most vulnerable and overwhelming moments of their lives- when symptoms feel unmanageable, past experiences resurface, or clarity and stability seem out of reach. Clients are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, or the cumulative effects of long-term stress. Others may feel misunderstood, dismissed, or discouraged by previous experiences in the healthcare system. Whether seeking symptom relief, emotional balance, or long-term resilience, help is here.
(937) 936-2225 View (937) 936-2225
Photo of Kristyn Funner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kristyn Funner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing medication management with supportive psychotherapy for ages 13 and up. My approach is focused on meeting people where they are and partnering with them to help them feel their best, and I regard it as an honor to be able to join with my patients on their journey of self-acceptance, growth, and recovery. I am passionate about decreasing stigma and increasing access to care. I am committed to providing affirming care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, enjoy working with neurodivergent clients, and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing medication management with supportive psychotherapy for ages 13 and up. My approach is focused on meeting people where they are and partnering with them to help them feel their best, and I regard it as an honor to be able to join with my patients on their journey of self-acceptance, growth, and recovery. I am passionate about decreasing stigma and increasing access to care. I am committed to providing affirming care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, enjoy working with neurodivergent clients, and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
(937) 884-1574 View (937) 884-1574
Photo of Ronald Lee Tyson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DMin, PMHNP-B, ANP-BC, CARN-AP
Ronald Lee Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DMin, PMHNP-B, ANP-BC, CARN-AP
1 Endorsed
Springboro, OH 45066
Lee Side Wellness is a psychiatric practice whose mission is to empathically enhance the lives of people impacted by psychiatric illness and addiction issues by fostering hope, help, and healing. Our approach is grounded in the core value that all people matter, are of sacred worth, and warrant the finest in psychiatric healthcare. Lee Side Wellness provides medication management and treats a variety of psychiatric conditions including: anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and substance abuse. Lee Side Wellness provides care for patients of all ages.
Lee Side Wellness is a psychiatric practice whose mission is to empathically enhance the lives of people impacted by psychiatric illness and addiction issues by fostering hope, help, and healing. Our approach is grounded in the core value that all people matter, are of sacred worth, and warrant the finest in psychiatric healthcare. Lee Side Wellness provides medication management and treats a variety of psychiatric conditions including: anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and substance abuse. Lee Side Wellness provides care for patients of all ages.
(513) 756-2680 View (513) 756-2680
Photo of Teara Young, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MBA, PMHNP, -BC
Teara Young
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MBA, PMHNP, -BC
Serves Area
Great to meet you! My ideal client is a high-functioning adult—often a professional, working parent, or caregiver—struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, burnout, or mood instability. They may experience panic attacks, sleep disruption, or persistent stress but continue performing at a high level. They want clarity, emotional regulation, and sustainable relief through thoughtful psychiatric care—not rushed medication. They value understanding the root causes behind their symptoms and building long-term stability.
Great to meet you! My ideal client is a high-functioning adult—often a professional, working parent, or caregiver—struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, burnout, or mood instability. They may experience panic attacks, sleep disruption, or persistent stress but continue performing at a high level. They want clarity, emotional regulation, and sustainable relief through thoughtful psychiatric care—not rushed medication. They value understanding the root causes behind their symptoms and building long-term stability.
(216) 428-0180 View (216) 428-0180
Photo of Amber Whitlatch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amber Whitlatch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maineville, OH 45039
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience, specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I work with adults, including those who have experienced trauma and struggle with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I combine medication management with therapy, treating the whole person and focusing on wellness, lifestyle changes, and personalized care. My goal is to help you achieve lasting well-being through a comprehensive approach tailored to your unique needs.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience, specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I work with adults, including those who have experienced trauma and struggle with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I combine medication management with therapy, treating the whole person and focusing on wellness, lifestyle changes, and personalized care. My goal is to help you achieve lasting well-being through a comprehensive approach tailored to your unique needs.
(513) 689-3866 View (513) 689-3866
Photo of Sara R Johnson - Mason Family Counseling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LISW-S, LCSW
Mason Family Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LISW-S, LCSW
Mason, OH 45040
No longer taking clients
No longer taking clients
(513) 845-2132 View (513) 845-2132
Photo of Wendy Brandeberry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Wendy Brandeberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Wendy Brandeberry, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering telehealth and in office care to adults throughout Ohio. I’ve spent over two decades helping people move from overwhelmed and anxious to calm, confident, and in control of their mental health. I specialize in ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless or stuck in ruminating thoughts they can’t shut off. I bring empathy, deep listening, and a collaborative spirit to every session—we’re in this together, and I’ll meet you exactly where you are.
Hi, I’m Wendy Brandeberry, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering telehealth and in office care to adults throughout Ohio. I’ve spent over two decades helping people move from overwhelmed and anxious to calm, confident, and in control of their mental health. I specialize in ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless or stuck in ruminating thoughts they can’t shut off. I bring empathy, deep listening, and a collaborative spirit to every session—we’re in this together, and I’ll meet you exactly where you are.
(567) 749-2734 View (567) 749-2734
Photo of Irfan Dahar, Psychiatrist, MD
Irfan Dahar
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
My ideal clients are adults, children, and teens struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, PTSD, or bipolar disorder disrupting daily life. They may face constant worry, sudden panic attacks, trauma symptoms, difficulty focusing at work or school, or mood swings affecting relationships. Parents may notice emotional or behavioral changes in their child. These clients want a thorough psychiatric evaluation, evidence-based treatment, and effective medication management. Their goals are stability, relief from panic, better focus, improved sleep, and healthier relationships.
My ideal clients are adults, children, and teens struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, PTSD, or bipolar disorder disrupting daily life. They may face constant worry, sudden panic attacks, trauma symptoms, difficulty focusing at work or school, or mood swings affecting relationships. Parents may notice emotional or behavioral changes in their child. These clients want a thorough psychiatric evaluation, evidence-based treatment, and effective medication management. Their goals are stability, relief from panic, better focus, improved sleep, and healthier relationships.
(937) 669-7252 View (937) 669-7252

See more therapy options for 45401

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45401

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45401 who prioritize treating:

100% Child
100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Spirituality
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 45401 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45401?

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.