Psychiatrists in 45415

Photo of Marquetta D Colbert, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marquetta D Colbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
(937) 501-0167 x1 View (937) 501-0167 x1
Photo of Xoliswa Cross, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Xoliswa Cross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
Xoliswa Cross is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She earned an associate degree in nursing from Kettering College of Medical Arts, a Bachelor of Nursing and master's degree in science with a Psychiatric Mental Health specialization from Wright State University. She has professional affiliations with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Psychological Association, International Society of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses and the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses.
Xoliswa Cross is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She earned an associate degree in nursing from Kettering College of Medical Arts, a Bachelor of Nursing and master's degree in science with a Psychiatric Mental Health specialization from Wright State University. She has professional affiliations with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Psychological Association, International Society of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses and the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses.
(937) 834-8297 View (937) 834-8297
Photo of Donna Moeller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donna Moeller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
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 Marsha Wilkey, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marsha Wilkey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
Marsha is an ANCC certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her NP degree from the University of South Alabama, Mobile. She is an Ohio native and obtained her bachelor’s of nursing degree from the University of Cincinnati and a master’s in nursing education from Wright State University. She has extensive experience working with children, teens, adults, and families and previously worked in numerous Air Force, Veterans Administration, and Department of Defense Overseas Schools while traveling the world. She most recently worked in private practice for a number of years.
Marsha is an ANCC certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her NP degree from the University of South Alabama, Mobile. She is an Ohio native and obtained her bachelor’s of nursing degree from the University of Cincinnati and a master’s in nursing education from Wright State University. She has extensive experience working with children, teens, adults, and families and previously worked in numerous Air Force, Veterans Administration, and Department of Defense Overseas Schools while traveling the world. She most recently worked in private practice for a number of years.
(844) 233-3895 View (844) 233-3895
Photo of Marsha Wilkey - LifeStance Health, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
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.
(844) 671-0369 View (844) 671-0369

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Michelle Roden, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Michelle Roden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45402
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
(937) 600-6866 View (937) 600-6866
Photo of Dr. Olivetta Uradu, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Olivetta Uradu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45402  (Online Only)
Take control of your mental health with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, compassionate, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive.
Take control of your mental health with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, compassionate, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive.
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Photo of Alendre McGhee - Ingenious Health & Wellness, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ingenious Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
(937) 719-5741 View (937) 719-5741
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45402  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
(513) 434-6732 View (513) 434-6732
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45402  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych eval and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting many major insurances.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych eval and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting many major insurances.
(330) 222-8501 View (330) 222-8501
Photo of Rhea J Jeffers, APRN, CNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhea J Jeffers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
I am here to help any patient seeking help with their emotions, stress, mood or any mental health problems they may be experiencing. My goal is to help anyone in need with mental health issues to live the best life possible. I encourage therapy along with medication management to improve overall mental health outcomes. I do not prescribe stimulants but I do use non-stimulants to treat ADHD, and ADD. I accept all insurances, Medicaid and Medicare.
I am here to help any patient seeking help with their emotions, stress, mood or any mental health problems they may be experiencing. My goal is to help anyone in need with mental health issues to live the best life possible. I encourage therapy along with medication management to improve overall mental health outcomes. I do not prescribe stimulants but I do use non-stimulants to treat ADHD, and ADD. I accept all insurances, Medicaid and Medicare.
(937) 858-5233 View (937) 858-5233
Photo of Princess Gaitawe-Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist
Princess Gaitawe-Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45406
I am a board certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have been practicing for over 10 years with experience with care of patients in a hospital, residential, and clinic settings. I value building relationships with both the child and their provider(s) to provide appropriate mental health care. I have treated various diagnoses and mental health concerns including: OCD, depression, ADHD, Autism related behavioral difficulties, young adults transitioning into adulthood, anxiety, and disruptive mood disorders. My approach to is address problems from a comprehensive perspective as their may be various contributing factors.
I am a board certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have been practicing for over 10 years with experience with care of patients in a hospital, residential, and clinic settings. I value building relationships with both the child and their provider(s) to provide appropriate mental health care. I have treated various diagnoses and mental health concerns including: OCD, depression, ADHD, Autism related behavioral difficulties, young adults transitioning into adulthood, anxiety, and disruptive mood disorders. My approach to is address problems from a comprehensive perspective as their may be various contributing factors.
(513) 540-0842 View (513) 540-0842
Photo of Emily Bush, APRN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45448
Hi, I’m Emily Bush, a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I believe that truly understanding my patients is key to helping them heal. That's why I take extra time to get to know each of my patients, learning their unique stories, needs, and concerns.
Hi, I’m Emily Bush, a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I believe that truly understanding my patients is key to helping them heal. That's why I take extra time to get to know each of my patients, learning their unique stories, needs, and concerns.
(937) 828-5950 View (937) 828-5950
Photo of Lidia Maria Berrone - Tassielli Mental Health & Wellness, MS,  APR, BC-ACNP, BCPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tassielli Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APR, BC-ACNP, BCPMHNP
Verified Verified
Englewood, OH 45322
Hello, I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I treat adults struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD to name of few. My goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals struggling with managing their life. My philosophy is that good mental health is key to the over all well-being of an individual.
Hello, I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I treat adults struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD to name of few. My goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals struggling with managing their life. My philosophy is that good mental health is key to the over all well-being of an individual.
(937) 884-1936 View (937) 884-1936
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45406
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(614) 502-3491 View (614) 502-3491
Photo of Emily Toal - BE Mental Health, LLC, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BE Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
I am a Primary-Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I treat all psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My practice has a specialized focus on mothers experiencing antepartum and postpartum mood disorders or bonding issues with their infants. Additionally, I have a passion to provide resources and mental health treatment to children and families who have indivduals with developmental delays. This includes assessment, diagnoses, treatment, appropriate referrals, and case management for the family. However, I treat all psychiatric disorders and people of all ages!
I am a Primary-Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I treat all psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My practice has a specialized focus on mothers experiencing antepartum and postpartum mood disorders or bonding issues with their infants. Additionally, I have a passion to provide resources and mental health treatment to children and families who have indivduals with developmental delays. This includes assessment, diagnoses, treatment, appropriate referrals, and case management for the family. However, I treat all psychiatric disorders and people of all ages!
(937) 518-6149 View (937) 518-6149
Photo of Denise Dews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denise Dews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45402
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
(513) 960-7137 View (513) 960-7137
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45405
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(614) 683-4245 View (614) 683-4245
Photo of Nyla Bintu Smith - Nyla Bintu Smith, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nyla Bintu Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45417
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
(513) 647-6377 View (513) 647-6377
Photo of Laura Schreckengost - Solutions Health & Wellness, LLC, APRN-CN, P,  PMHN, P-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solutions Health & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN, P, PMHN, P-BC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45402
Now Accepting New Patients- We are able to accept referrals from your primary care provider or therapist. We accept most major insurances including Medicare and Medicaid. Allow us to provide you with the treatment you deserve! If you are suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues that you are struggling to overcome, we can help you. With my supportive staff I assist you with goal setting, making an individualized treatment plan, medication management and therapy, all designed around you and your needs while maintaining a safe and comfortable environment.
Now Accepting New Patients- We are able to accept referrals from your primary care provider or therapist. We accept most major insurances including Medicare and Medicaid. Allow us to provide you with the treatment you deserve! If you are suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues that you are struggling to overcome, we can help you. With my supportive staff I assist you with goal setting, making an individualized treatment plan, medication management and therapy, all designed around you and your needs while maintaining a safe and comfortable environment.
(937) 988-0989 View (937) 988-0989

See more therapy options for 45415

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45415

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45415 who prioritize treating:

80% Depression
80% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Sleep or Insomnia
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Medication Management
40% Child

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% MultiPlan

How Psychiatrists in 45415 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45415?

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.