Psychiatrists in 45701

Photo of Katie Stanford - Harmony Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Harmony Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Athens, OH 45701
Accepting New Spravato Patients- Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers Spravato (esketamine) treatment, medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
Accepting New Spravato Patients- Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers Spravato (esketamine) treatment, medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
(740) 224-8976 View (740) 224-8976
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Athens, OH 45701
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Athens, OH 45701
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
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Photo of Emily Rees, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Emily Rees
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
After hours and weekend availability! Not feeling your best self? Tired of struggling? Admitting that you need help and then seeking that help are tough things to do. So, kudos to you! You’re here and we are going to walk through this journey together. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a mental health disorder in the past or are looking for evaluation, I am here for you.
After hours and weekend availability! Not feeling your best self? Tired of struggling? Admitting that you need help and then seeking that help are tough things to do. So, kudos to you! You’re here and we are going to walk through this journey together. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a mental health disorder in the past or are looking for evaluation, I am here for you.
(740) 883-3996 View (740) 883-3996
Photo of Dr. Bethany Harper, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bethany Harper
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of John Aziz, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
John Aziz
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Logan, OH 43138
I’m a Quadruple board-certified psychiatrist with broad experience treating adolescents and adults across a wide range of mental health conditions. My clinical focus includes depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and OCD. I believe in a thoughtful, individualized approach to care—combining evidence-based medication management with a deep understanding of each patient’s unique experience. Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis or managing a long-standing condition, my goal is to support your path to meaningful, lasting wellness.
I’m a Quadruple board-certified psychiatrist with broad experience treating adolescents and adults across a wide range of mental health conditions. My clinical focus includes depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and OCD. I believe in a thoughtful, individualized approach to care—combining evidence-based medication management with a deep understanding of each patient’s unique experience. Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis or managing a long-standing condition, my goal is to support your path to meaningful, lasting wellness.
(740) 875-3250 View (740) 875-3250
Photo of Carla Y Pottmeyer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Carla Y Pottmeyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Belpre, OH 45714
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who sees children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. Having been in the nursing field for over 25 years, I have a passion for others and the struggles that come along with life's challenges. My goal is for every person to feel cared for and comfortable when there is a need for medication management. Through shared decision making, I hope to treat, encourage, and help each person to see their worth and value.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who sees children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. Having been in the nursing field for over 25 years, I have a passion for others and the struggles that come along with life's challenges. My goal is for every person to feel cared for and comfortable when there is a need for medication management. Through shared decision making, I hope to treat, encourage, and help each person to see their worth and value.
(740) 499-7054 View (740) 499-7054
Photo of Aaron Newman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP-BC, PMHNP
Aaron Newman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP-BC, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're struggling with your mental health, you don't have to face it alone. I'm here to help you every step of the way. In our first sessions, we’ll discuss your challenges and create a personalized plan that works for you. Many of my patients start seeing positive changes in just the first month, with lasting improvement over time. I help people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, weight loss, and more. I also treat mold illness and CIRS condition.
If you're struggling with your mental health, you don't have to face it alone. I'm here to help you every step of the way. In our first sessions, we’ll discuss your challenges and create a personalized plan that works for you. Many of my patients start seeing positive changes in just the first month, with lasting improvement over time. I help people with ADHD, depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, weight loss, and more. I also treat mold illness and CIRS condition.
(503) 751-8662 View (503) 751-8662
Photo of Cindy L Dunkle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Cindy L Dunkle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
I specialize in adult (18+) mental health and wellness through assessment, diagnosis and treatment with education and medication management. People are the experts in recognizing their needs, so I encourage them to be active participants in their care through collaboration and by validating their feelings and lived experiences. I will do my best to help each person move forward to live their best life and appreciate the opportunity to be a part of each persons’ journey to wellness.
I specialize in adult (18+) mental health and wellness through assessment, diagnosis and treatment with education and medication management. People are the experts in recognizing their needs, so I encourage them to be active participants in their care through collaboration and by validating their feelings and lived experiences. I will do my best to help each person move forward to live their best life and appreciate the opportunity to be a part of each persons’ journey to wellness.
(740) 521-4319 View (740) 521-4319

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Nicole Rausch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Nicole Rausch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Westerville, OH 43081
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in supporting those with past traumatic experiences, including but not limited to firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and veterans—who face the mental toll of trauma, stress, and burnout. I understand the unique challenges of this work: the pressure to stay strong, the stigma around asking for help, and the detrimental impact on relationships and sleep. My goal is to create a safe, confidential space where you can be heard without judgment. Together, we will focus on practical strategies to manage everyday life so you can feel grounded, connected, and in control again.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in supporting those with past traumatic experiences, including but not limited to firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and veterans—who face the mental toll of trauma, stress, and burnout. I understand the unique challenges of this work: the pressure to stay strong, the stigma around asking for help, and the detrimental impact on relationships and sleep. My goal is to create a safe, confidential space where you can be heard without judgment. Together, we will focus on practical strategies to manage everyday life so you can feel grounded, connected, and in control again.
(614) 908-4728 View (614) 908-4728
Photo of Sarah Boyle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Sarah Boyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Gahanna, OH 43230
My goal is to help you thrive, not merely survive. In addition to medication management, I utilize a holistic approach that incorporates lifestyle changes, movement and nutrition. Growth is facilitated by a person-centered, and trauma-informed approach that promotes a compassionate, non-judgemental environment. There is no "one size fits all" treatment plan. We will work in collaboration to create a treatment plan and goals that are within reach for you.
My goal is to help you thrive, not merely survive. In addition to medication management, I utilize a holistic approach that incorporates lifestyle changes, movement and nutrition. Growth is facilitated by a person-centered, and trauma-informed approach that promotes a compassionate, non-judgemental environment. There is no "one size fits all" treatment plan. We will work in collaboration to create a treatment plan and goals that are within reach for you.
(614) 603-0925 View (614) 603-0925
Photo of Kathryn Hendricks - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Westerville, OH 43082
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(380) 246-4984 View (380) 246-4984
Photo of Siddharth Arora - Care Clinic, Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Bridgeport, OH 43912
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
(330) 708-7210 View (330) 708-7210
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Columbus, OH 43201
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Angela Rinaldi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Angela Rinaldi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 5 years of experience in mental health care. I hold a master’s in nursing education and a Post-Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Walden University. I specialize in holistic, patient-centered care for adults, treating conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, with a focus on first responders and veterans. I use evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach to create personalized treatment plans, including medication management and crisis intervention.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 5 years of experience in mental health care. I hold a master’s in nursing education and a Post-Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Walden University. I specialize in holistic, patient-centered care for adults, treating conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, with a focus on first responders and veterans. I use evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach to create personalized treatment plans, including medication management and crisis intervention.
(380) 600-8489 View (380) 600-8489
Photo of Jeffrey Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHCNS
Jeffrey Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHCNS
Gahanna, OH 43230
Dr. Jeffrey Jones is a dedicated mental health professional specializing in the treatment of adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunctions, personality disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorders, and schizophrenia. He also addresses couples and relationship concerns, helping clients navigate their emotional landscapes and improve interpersonal dynamics. Committed to evidence-based therapies tailored to individual needs, Dr. Jones fosters a supportive environment for healing and personal growth, making him a trusted partner in mental health care.
Dr. Jeffrey Jones is a dedicated mental health professional specializing in the treatment of adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunctions, personality disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorders, and schizophrenia. He also addresses couples and relationship concerns, helping clients navigate their emotional landscapes and improve interpersonal dynamics. Committed to evidence-based therapies tailored to individual needs, Dr. Jones fosters a supportive environment for healing and personal growth, making him a trusted partner in mental health care.
(614) 656-7025 View (614) 656-7025
Photo of Abdulmalek Sadah, Psychiatrist, MD
Abdulmalek Sadah
Psychiatrist, MD
Columbus, OH 43235
I am triple board-certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, and Internal Medicine, having trained at West Virginia University and Indiana University-Purdue University. Over the past 13 years, I have worked in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, and residential facilities, serving diverse patient populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. I am dedicated to supporting my clients throughout their healing journeys and helping them improve their lives.
I am triple board-certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, and Internal Medicine, having trained at West Virginia University and Indiana University-Purdue University. Over the past 13 years, I have worked in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, and residential facilities, serving diverse patient populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. I am dedicated to supporting my clients throughout their healing journeys and helping them improve their lives.
(513) 935-2825 View (513) 935-2825
Photo of Kimberly Bernacki - Ambiente Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Ambiente Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
5 Endorsed
Granville, OH 43023
As a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I’m passionate about helping individuals find balance, clarity, and confidence in their mental health journey. My approach is compassionate, evidence-based, and collaborative. I believe the best outcomes happen when clients feel truly seen, heard, and supported. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, or simply feeling unlike yourself, my goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to understand your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your life.
As a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I’m passionate about helping individuals find balance, clarity, and confidence in their mental health journey. My approach is compassionate, evidence-based, and collaborative. I believe the best outcomes happen when clients feel truly seen, heard, and supported. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, or simply feeling unlike yourself, my goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to understand your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your life.
(740) 247-5849 View (740) 247-5849
Photo of Ivana Balic - Keystone Mental Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Keystone Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Dublin, OH 43016
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
(614) 820-5241 View (614) 820-5241
Photo of Kathryn Hendricks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Kathryn Hendricks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Westerville, OH 43082
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
(614) 660-5691 View (614) 660-5691

See more therapy options for 45701

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45701

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45701 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Medication Management
80% Other
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 45701 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 45701?

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.