Psychiatrists in 45458

Photo of Oladele M Oladapo, Psychiatrist, MD
Oladele M Oladapo
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45458
If anxiety, low mood, or ongoing stress have started to affect your daily life, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Many adults reach out when they feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure what kind of support would actually help. My goal is to provide thoughtful, physician-led psychiatric care that helps you gain clarity, stability, and confidence in your next steps. I work with adults seeking personalized mental health care that considers the full picture, emotional, physical, and lifestyle factors, not just symptoms.
If anxiety, low mood, or ongoing stress have started to affect your daily life, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Many adults reach out when they feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure what kind of support would actually help. My goal is to provide thoughtful, physician-led psychiatric care that helps you gain clarity, stability, and confidence in your next steps. I work with adults seeking personalized mental health care that considers the full picture, emotional, physical, and lifestyle factors, not just symptoms.
(937) 729-3170 View (937) 729-3170
Photo of Brad Gibson - A Life Renewed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, PMHNP
A Life Renewed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Centerville, OH 45458
Our small, intimate, private practice gives patients a sense of privacy and quality care that larger institutions can struggle to provide at times. We want those who we serve to know they are not just a number, that they matter, their care is important, and we are committed to building a healthy and nurturing relationship with them. We serve mental health disorders from 6 yrs old (+) in a safe and comforting environment. We offer several services including, but not limited to: psychiatric evaluations, medication management, pharmacogenomic testing, applicable labs and tests, just to name a few.
Our small, intimate, private practice gives patients a sense of privacy and quality care that larger institutions can struggle to provide at times. We want those who we serve to know they are not just a number, that they matter, their care is important, and we are committed to building a healthy and nurturing relationship with them. We serve mental health disorders from 6 yrs old (+) in a safe and comforting environment. We offer several services including, but not limited to: psychiatric evaluations, medication management, pharmacogenomic testing, applicable labs and tests, just to name a few.
(937) 815-4221 View (937) 815-4221
Photo of Teara Gruber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Teara Gruber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Centerville, OH 45458
Teara’s path to becoming a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner began with a deep commitment to empathetic care for those in crisis. Over 13 years in the Emergency Department, she gained a reputation for staying calm under pressure while delivering exceptional care. Teara also specialized in forensic nursing, working as a Pediatric and Adult Sexual Assault Nurse. Her passion for advocacy and healing allows her to provide trauma-informed care, ensuring survivors receive the the medical attention, emotional support, and resources they need to begin their journey toward recovery.
Teara’s path to becoming a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner began with a deep commitment to empathetic care for those in crisis. Over 13 years in the Emergency Department, she gained a reputation for staying calm under pressure while delivering exceptional care. Teara also specialized in forensic nursing, working as a Pediatric and Adult Sexual Assault Nurse. Her passion for advocacy and healing allows her to provide trauma-informed care, ensuring survivors receive the the medical attention, emotional support, and resources they need to begin their journey toward recovery.
(937) 828-3925 View (937) 828-3925
Photo of Trevor Shelton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Trevor Shelton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Dayton, OH 45458
Trevor Shelton, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2024. He has worked in psychiatry since 2018 in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Trevor takes a collaborative, judgment-free approach, meeting clients where they are and working together to build personalized, effective treatment plans. He integrates supportive therapy into each session. Outside of work, Trevor enjoys traveling, video games, hiking, sports, and coffee.
Trevor Shelton, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2024. He has worked in psychiatry since 2018 in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Trevor takes a collaborative, judgment-free approach, meeting clients where they are and working together to build personalized, effective treatment plans. He integrates supportive therapy into each session. Outside of work, Trevor enjoys traveling, video games, hiking, sports, and coffee.
(937) 761-3473 View (937) 761-3473
Photo of Obed Anya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Obed Anya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Patient with mental health problems like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD or patients having difficulties adjusting with various changes worry about being listened to or understood. These patients are going through a lot in life and they deserve to be heard.
Patient with mental health problems like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD or patients having difficulties adjusting with various changes worry about being listened to or understood. These patients are going through a lot in life and they deserve to be heard.
(513) 951-5637 View (513) 951-5637
Photo of Emilie Breeding - WoodStream Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
WoodStream Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Serves Area
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 Lejeana Miller - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
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) 761-3922 View (937) 761-3922
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
Serves Area
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 Biaunka Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Biaunka Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
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 Rhea J Jeffers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Rhea J Jeffers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 LeJeana Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
LeJeana Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Serves Area
Lejeana Miller is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2004. She is a graduate of Wright State University where she earned her master’s degree in Science with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration in 2021. Lejeana has over 15 years of psychiatric experience in areas such as geriatric psychiatry, neurology, adult inpatient acute psychiatry, psychiatric intensive care, community mental health, and addiction.Lejeana Miller is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her bac
Lejeana Miller is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2004. She is a graduate of Wright State University where she earned her master’s degree in Science with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration in 2021. Lejeana has over 15 years of psychiatric experience in areas such as geriatric psychiatry, neurology, adult inpatient acute psychiatry, psychiatric intensive care, community mental health, and addiction.Lejeana Miller is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her bac
(937) 863-9948 View (937) 863-9948
Photo of Tyneah Morris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Tyneah Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP-BC, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My mission statement and goal for all to recognize is "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." As a board- certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am trained to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs for all ages; such as perinatal psychiatry, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or substance abuse disorders. My patients receive patient centered care with ongoing treatment plans that are adjusted and specifically customized according to the need.
My mission statement and goal for all to recognize is "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." As a board- certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am trained to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs for all ages; such as perinatal psychiatry, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or substance abuse disorders. My patients receive patient centered care with ongoing treatment plans that are adjusted and specifically customized according to the need.
(937) 476-1940 View (937) 476-1940
Photo of Janet Neal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Janet Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am accepting new clients and take most insurances. I would love to work with you on your mental health. Your next step is to call Wood stream Wellness and ask to be scheduled with Janet. 937-759-0545
I am accepting new clients and take most insurances. I would love to work with you on your mental health. Your next step is to call Wood stream Wellness and ask to be scheduled with Janet. 937-759-0545
(937) 358-8232 View (937) 358-8232
Photo of Gloria Adjei, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gloria Adjei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I treat clients, across the lifespan, suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, other mood and behavioral challenges as well as substance use disorders. I treat clients across the lifespan, from school-age children to geriatric clients. My specialty includes anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, as well as substance use disorders.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I treat clients, across the lifespan, suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, other mood and behavioral challenges as well as substance use disorders. I treat clients across the lifespan, from school-age children to geriatric clients. My specialty includes anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, as well as substance use disorders.
(440) 581-8373 View (440) 581-8373
Photo of Sylvie Sibomana, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Sylvie Sibomana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a compassionate provider who focuses on a holistic, individualized approach to health by devoting time to your care. I am dual-certified and offer dual diagnoses of addiction and underlying mental health issues. My goal is to build healthy communities and reduce the stigma associated with addiction, psychiatry, and weight. I offer flexible hours early in the morning, evenings, or weekends, no waiting time, telehealth, and in-person visits.
I am a compassionate provider who focuses on a holistic, individualized approach to health by devoting time to your care. I am dual-certified and offer dual diagnoses of addiction and underlying mental health issues. My goal is to build healthy communities and reduce the stigma associated with addiction, psychiatry, and weight. I offer flexible hours early in the morning, evenings, or weekends, no waiting time, telehealth, and in-person visits.
(937) 872-3341 View (937) 872-3341

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Mei Chiang - MC Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
MC Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Cincinnati, OH 45249
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an MD from The Ohio State University and a PhD in cell and developmental biology. I have extensive training in psychotherapy for both adults and children. I have helped patients achieve lasting, changes toward a happy and fulfilling life. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorder, PTSD and psychosis. I use a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy approaches include psychodynamic, supportive, CBT, EMDR, and play therapy, whichever proves to be most appropriate and effective for the moment. I am a psychiatrist that spends time with patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an MD from The Ohio State University and a PhD in cell and developmental biology. I have extensive training in psychotherapy for both adults and children. I have helped patients achieve lasting, changes toward a happy and fulfilling life. I treat ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorder, PTSD and psychosis. I use a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy approaches include psychodynamic, supportive, CBT, EMDR, and play therapy, whichever proves to be most appropriate and effective for the moment. I am a psychiatrist that spends time with patients.
(513) 434-6849 View (513) 434-6849
Photo of Catherine Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Catherine Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe healing begins with feeling understood. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in genuine respect for each person’s story. I work alongside my patients to untangle symptoms, build clarity, and create a treatment plan that feels both empowering and realistic.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe healing begins with feeling understood. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in genuine respect for each person’s story. I work alongside my patients to untangle symptoms, build clarity, and create a treatment plan that feels both empowering and realistic.
(937) 806-5907 View (937) 806-5907
Photo of Reyna Gilmore - A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services, Psychiatrist, Dr, LISW-S, LISW, LICDC, LPCC-S
A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services
Psychiatrist, Dr, LISW-S, LISW, LICDC, LPCC-S
Loveland, OH 45140
We are a faith-based counseling center. We believe that healing begins with God. Our clients have the option to choose prayer during their sessions. This is not mandatory but if they are in need we will pray with them. We are providers that offer hope and encouragement. We will help you to meet your goals and will help you through your struggles. As your Therapist, Counselor, and Psychologist I will ensure that you have a safe, supportive, and encouraging place to make the desired changes you are seeking. I work with people across the Cincinnati, Ohio area.
We are a faith-based counseling center. We believe that healing begins with God. Our clients have the option to choose prayer during their sessions. This is not mandatory but if they are in need we will pray with them. We are providers that offer hope and encouragement. We will help you to meet your goals and will help you through your struggles. As your Therapist, Counselor, and Psychologist I will ensure that you have a safe, supportive, and encouraging place to make the desired changes you are seeking. I work with people across the Cincinnati, Ohio area.
(513) 275-4677 View (513) 275-4677
Photo of Molly McHenry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Molly McHenry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I have been a nurse practitioner for 13 years focusing on the wellbeing and mental health of children and young adults. I have worked extensively with patients that have trauma histories. This has included homeless and incarcerated youth, youth in the foster care system, LGBTQ+ youth, and youth struggling with mental health issues and substance use disorders. I strive to create a judgement free practice based on harm reduction and tailored to the needs of individual patients. Treatment plans are created with transparency and collaboration with the patient and their parents, if a minor.
I have been a nurse practitioner for 13 years focusing on the wellbeing and mental health of children and young adults. I have worked extensively with patients that have trauma histories. This has included homeless and incarcerated youth, youth in the foster care system, LGBTQ+ youth, and youth struggling with mental health issues and substance use disorders. I strive to create a judgement free practice based on harm reduction and tailored to the needs of individual patients. Treatment plans are created with transparency and collaboration with the patient and their parents, if a minor.
(513) 877-6013 View (513) 877-6013
Photo of Grace Tirey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Grace Tirey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45449
Hello, my name is Mary Grace C. Tirey. My primary goal was simply to help people in any way I could. I dedicated myself to the physical health and well-being of my patients. Through my experiences, I saw how much a person's mental health can affect their entire life, and how connected it is to their physical health. This realization truly changed my path. I wanted to offer more than just physical care. I want to provide a space where you can be open about your struggles, where your emotional and mental well-being are just as important as anything else. I am here to walk alongside with you on this journey.
Hello, my name is Mary Grace C. Tirey. My primary goal was simply to help people in any way I could. I dedicated myself to the physical health and well-being of my patients. Through my experiences, I saw how much a person's mental health can affect their entire life, and how connected it is to their physical health. This realization truly changed my path. I wanted to offer more than just physical care. I want to provide a space where you can be open about your struggles, where your emotional and mental well-being are just as important as anything else. I am here to walk alongside with you on this journey.
(937) 476-1940 View (937) 476-1940

See more therapy options for 45458

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45458

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 45458 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
87% Trauma and PTSD
87% Medication Management
80% Psychosis
73% ADHD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 45458 see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45458?

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.