Psychiatrists in 45420

Photo of Kandiss Messer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kandiss Messer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Dayton, OH 45420
Every person deserves the opportunity to live their fullest, most authentic life. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I believe that mental health care is a collaborative journey between provider and patient. My practice is built on the foundation of active listening and genuine partnership – because your story, experiences, and goals matter. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions or talking at my patients. Instead, I work alongside you, combining my clinical expertise with your unique insights about your life and needs. Together, we'll develop a personalized approach to help you become your best self.
Every person deserves the opportunity to live their fullest, most authentic life. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I believe that mental health care is a collaborative journey between provider and patient. My practice is built on the foundation of active listening and genuine partnership – because your story, experiences, and goals matter. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions or talking at my patients. Instead, I work alongside you, combining my clinical expertise with your unique insights about your life and needs. Together, we'll develop a personalized approach to help you become your best self.
(937) 446-0174 View (937) 446-0174
Photo of Lidia Maria Berrone - Tassielli Mental Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APR, BC-ACNP, BCPMHNP
Tassielli Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APR, BC-ACNP, BCPMHNP
Dayton, OH 45420
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 Tiffani Michelle Gallimore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Tiffani Michelle Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
(937) 880-3710 View (937) 880-3710
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, Psychiatrist, MD
TelaMD Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you would like to set up an appointment.
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you would like to set up an appointment.
(614) 502-3491 View (614) 502-3491
Photo of Nafresha Abuaun - Nafresha Abuaun Private Practice LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP, APRN
Nafresha Abuaun Private Practice LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.
(937) 807-3721 View (937) 807-3721

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Natosha Onasanya, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Dr. Natosha Onasanya
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45459
I started Smiles Psychiatry & Wellness private practice to give parents freedom and flexibility to choose specialized psychiatric care and receive support during difficult parenting seasons. Smiles Psychiatry & Wellness strives to provide comprehensive psychiatric treatment plans to address the biological, emotional, and environmental factors contributing to your mental health.
I started Smiles Psychiatry & Wellness private practice to give parents freedom and flexibility to choose specialized psychiatric care and receive support during difficult parenting seasons. Smiles Psychiatry & Wellness strives to provide comprehensive psychiatric treatment plans to address the biological, emotional, and environmental factors contributing to your mental health.
(937) 909-0689 View (937) 909-0689
Photo of Biaunka Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Biaunka Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Centerville, OH 45459
Biaunka Phillips 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 Phillips 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 Pamela Pardon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Pamela Pardon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
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 life span 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; provided support to callers on the 24-hour Crisis Hotline Services; and served as a team member of a community mental.
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 life span 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; provided support to callers on the 24-hour Crisis Hotline Services; and served as a team member of a community mental.
(614) 756-3035 View (614) 756-3035
Photo of Daniel S. Hardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMGT-BC
Daniel S. Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMGT-BC
Serves Area
Most of my clients are queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled. They may seek help with transition concerns, psychiatric medication, identifying/confirming a diagnosis, or overall practical support for day-to-day life. Whatever their need, they're seeking someone comfortable with the diversity of experiences that our identities bring and how these intersect in the USA in 2025. It can sometimes be a challenge to find a provider who understands the difference between being labeled by others and having an identity label to better understand ourselves by.
Most of my clients are queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled. They may seek help with transition concerns, psychiatric medication, identifying/confirming a diagnosis, or overall practical support for day-to-day life. Whatever their need, they're seeking someone comfortable with the diversity of experiences that our identities bring and how these intersect in the USA in 2025. It can sometimes be a challenge to find a provider who understands the difference between being labeled by others and having an identity label to better understand ourselves by.
(513) 845-3284 View (513) 845-3284
Aneiis Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Franklin, OH 45005
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique mental health needs. My practice is grounded in clinical expertise and a deep respect for the personal nature of mental health, offering thoughtful diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique mental health needs. My practice is grounded in clinical expertise and a deep respect for the personal nature of mental health, offering thoughtful diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD.
(661) 762-4636 View (661) 762-4636
Photo of Dr. Lisa Schauseil - LeeSide Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
LeeSide Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Schauseil has a dual master’s degree in counseling education and nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Her doctorate project was on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and she has a passion for working with people of all ages struggling with symptoms related to ADHD and other mental health issues. She is dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in our Mason office and through virtual visits.
Dr. Schauseil has a dual master’s degree in counseling education and nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Her doctorate project was on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and she has a passion for working with people of all ages struggling with symptoms related to ADHD and other mental health issues. She is dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in our Mason office and through virtual visits.
(513) 647-9426 View (513) 647-9426
Photo of Daniel Almeida, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Almeida
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I have dedicated my career to assisting persons going through challenging times that may have affected their academic/professional lives, relationships, and ability to cope and find purpose. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. In my practice, we focus on the patient, their family, and their community.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I have dedicated my career to assisting persons going through challenging times that may have affected their academic/professional lives, relationships, and ability to cope and find purpose. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. In my practice, we focus on the patient, their family, and their community.
(513) 916-3519 View (513) 916-3519
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 Alendre McGhee - Ingenious Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Ingenious Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
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 Crystal Ravenel Farrell - A Crystal Mind, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Crystal Mind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
(513) 434-6344 View (513) 434-6344
Photo of Jane Aridge, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jane Aridge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Are you feeling down, worrying too much, having difficulty sleeping or unmotivated? If so, you could be experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, and may benefit from mental health assessment,therapy and medications. Hello, My name is Jane Aridge, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Are you feeling down, worrying too much, having difficulty sleeping or unmotivated? If so, you could be experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, and may benefit from mental health assessment,therapy and medications. Hello, My name is Jane Aridge, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(234) 332-2230 View (234) 332-2230
Photo of Stephanie Tate, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRNCNP, PMHNP
Stephanie Tate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRNCNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
I believe in meeting clients where they are and helping them get to where they want to be.
I believe in meeting clients where they are and helping them get to where they want to be.
(234) 516-3874 View (234) 516-3874
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
Mason, OH 45040
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 Brian Soto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brian Soto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone seeking help for challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or addiction, who is ready to take steps toward mental wellness. They want a compassionate, patient-centered approach tailored to their needs. Their goal is to regain balance, build resilience, and improve overall quality of life. Whether they’re an adult or a child, I support them by creating a safe space to explore their feelings and develop a personalized plan to foster healing and growth.
My ideal client is someone seeking help for challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or addiction, who is ready to take steps toward mental wellness. They want a compassionate, patient-centered approach tailored to their needs. Their goal is to regain balance, build resilience, and improve overall quality of life. Whether they’re an adult or a child, I support them by creating a safe space to explore their feelings and develop a personalized plan to foster healing and growth.
(216) 285-1708 View (216) 285-1708
Photo of Dr. Mike Hatesohl - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Fairborn, OH 45324
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.
(937) 863-9215 View (937) 863-9215

See more therapy options for 45420

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45420

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45420 who prioritize treating:

80% Depression
80% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Emotional Disturbance
60% Behavioral Issues
60% Borderline Personality (BPD)
60% Alcohol Use

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Medicare
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 45420 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45420?

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.