Psychiatrists in 45810

Photo of Cornelius Onyekelu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Cornelius Onyekelu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board -Certified Psychiatric mental Health Nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. One of my strengths lies in my ability to foster a safe space where clients feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings. I utilize an evidence-based approach combined with empathetic understanding, ensuring that you receive comprehensive care that addresses your whole self.
I am a Board -Certified Psychiatric mental Health Nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. One of my strengths lies in my ability to foster a safe space where clients feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings. I utilize an evidence-based approach combined with empathetic understanding, ensuring that you receive comprehensive care that addresses your whole self.
(567) 229-6674 View (567) 229-6674

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, Psychiatrist, MD
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (419) 318-1200 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (419) 318-1200 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(419) 318-1200 View (419) 318-1200
Photo of Kimberly Swartz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kimberly Swartz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I’m Kimberly. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in health care. I provide holistic integrative care, and I am glad you are here! Seeking help can be a bit overwhelming and perhaps even scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
Hello! I’m Kimberly. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in health care. I provide holistic integrative care, and I am glad you are here! Seeking help can be a bit overwhelming and perhaps even scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
(937) 230-7841 View (937) 230-7841
Photo of Karim Barrie - Barrie Behavioral Health (BBH). , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CNP, Psych
Barrie Behavioral Health (BBH).
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CNP, Psych
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
(380) 800-5691 View (380) 800-5691
Photo of Ndematelen Asong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ndematelen Asong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at the Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at the Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.
(614) 347-0796 View (614) 347-0796
Photo of Neil Tournoux, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Neil Tournoux
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
There is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think..." I became a nurse practitioner while working inpatient as a psychiatric nurse for 5 years. I am proud of my profession in nursing, as I believe that nurse practitioners bring a unique perspective to this field. Being fully present, and actively listening to understand what a patient is trying to convey is invaluable. My goal is to allow you to feel heard.
There is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think..." I became a nurse practitioner while working inpatient as a psychiatric nurse for 5 years. I am proud of my profession in nursing, as I believe that nurse practitioners bring a unique perspective to this field. Being fully present, and actively listening to understand what a patient is trying to convey is invaluable. My goal is to allow you to feel heard.
(513) 643-5861 View (513) 643-5861
Photo of Akeem Adeniyi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Akeem Adeniyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm a licensed Professional Psychiatry NP base in Lima, Ohio. I received two Masters degree from University of Cincinnati, one in Family practice NP, and one as a Psychiatry NP and board certified by ANCC and AANP. I have been practicing for 5 years has Psych NP and i have been opportune to be of service to many patients. It is a great privilege in helping others, as bringing happiness to others through my job bring happiness to me as well. I am passionate about mental health and look forward to meeting you today!
Hi! I'm a licensed Professional Psychiatry NP base in Lima, Ohio. I received two Masters degree from University of Cincinnati, one in Family practice NP, and one as a Psychiatry NP and board certified by ANCC and AANP. I have been practicing for 5 years has Psych NP and i have been opportune to be of service to many patients. It is a great privilege in helping others, as bringing happiness to others through my job bring happiness to me as well. I am passionate about mental health and look forward to meeting you today!
(513) 866-4241 View (513) 866-4241
Photo of Jennifer J Truman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Jennifer J Truman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Finding the right psychiatric care can feel like searching for a great friend—overwhelming and uncertain. I’m here to make it easier for adults 18+. With years of experience, I offer a warm, judgment-free space where you’ll feel heard and valued. Using compassionate guidance and cutting-edge genetic testing, we’ll tailor solutions to you, avoiding trial-and-error. Visit my website to book an appointment, and let’s start this journey together toward peace and clarity.
Finding the right psychiatric care can feel like searching for a great friend—overwhelming and uncertain. I’m here to make it easier for adults 18+. With years of experience, I offer a warm, judgment-free space where you’ll feel heard and valued. Using compassionate guidance and cutting-edge genetic testing, we’ll tailor solutions to you, avoiding trial-and-error. Visit my website to book an appointment, and let’s start this journey together toward peace and clarity.
(419) 963-6946 View (419) 963-6946
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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 Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
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

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Gerald Makobong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP
Columbus, OH 43221
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
(614) 953-5190 View (614) 953-5190
Photo of Wright State Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD/DO
Wright State Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD/DO
Fairborn, OH 45324
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS--Come see our newly renovated offices conveniently located across from Wright State University. Our therapists are physicians who have graduated medical school and are completing the final years of their psychiatric training. We treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, and relationship problems in children, adolescents, and adults. We are unable to accept referrals or any form of insurance, including Medicare, Medicaid and CareSource. Medication management cannot be the sole reason for a visit. We regret the inconvenience.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS--Come see our newly renovated offices conveniently located across from Wright State University. Our therapists are physicians who have graduated medical school and are completing the final years of their psychiatric training. We treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, and relationship problems in children, adolescents, and adults. We are unable to accept referrals or any form of insurance, including Medicare, Medicaid and CareSource. Medication management cannot be the sole reason for a visit. We regret the inconvenience.
(937) 775-7792 View (937) 775-7792
Photo of Donna Moeller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Donna Moeller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Dayton, OH 45414
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
(937) 858-5439 View (937) 858-5439
Photo of Sheila V Canini, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Sheila V Canini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Online Only
My ideal clients range from teenagers to adults of all genders, primarily residing in areas where our services are accessible. These individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and are motivated to improve their mental health, achieve better sleep, and embrace change. They require personalized therapy, a supportive community, educational resources, and professional guidance. These clients seek relief from their conditions, value a high quality of life, long for stability, and are committed to self-improvement. Addressing these needs helps them on their journey to better mental health and an enhanced life
My ideal clients range from teenagers to adults of all genders, primarily residing in areas where our services are accessible. These individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and are motivated to improve their mental health, achieve better sleep, and embrace change. They require personalized therapy, a supportive community, educational resources, and professional guidance. These clients seek relief from their conditions, value a high quality of life, long for stability, and are committed to self-improvement. Addressing these needs helps them on their journey to better mental health and an enhanced life
(380) 777-8372 View (380) 777-8372
Photo of Jenna Jacobs, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Jenna Jacobs
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Columbus, OH 43235
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
(740) 619-4219 View (740) 619-4219
Photo of Sarah Ab (Reid) Red - Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, GAD, expert
Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, GAD, expert
3 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Seeking help is hard. At Breeze getting care is easy. — Immediate openings for new pts — Here skilled clinicians treat the mind while nurturing the spirit. We provide personalized care of the mind & body using a combination of medication, therapy, and coaching. Board certified specialists treat most major mental illnesses and symptoms, including chronic feelings of emptiness, sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, trauma, and sleep problems. Caring clinicians partner with patients to create custom treatment plans with patient-driven goals. First responders, veterans, single parents and shift workers with busy schedules can easily get care.
Seeking help is hard. At Breeze getting care is easy. — Immediate openings for new pts — Here skilled clinicians treat the mind while nurturing the spirit. We provide personalized care of the mind & body using a combination of medication, therapy, and coaching. Board certified specialists treat most major mental illnesses and symptoms, including chronic feelings of emptiness, sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, trauma, and sleep problems. Caring clinicians partner with patients to create custom treatment plans with patient-driven goals. First responders, veterans, single parents and shift workers with busy schedules can easily get care.
(740) 685-4720 View (740) 685-4720
Photo of Neema Mrisho, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Neema Mrisho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families.
(614) 660-8382 View (614) 660-8382
Photo of LaVinda McAuliffe - OwlBridge Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
OwlBridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
(513) 279-8035 View (513) 279-8035
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
Dayton, OH 45409
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
Photo of Gerald Makobong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Dayton, OH 45405
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
(380) 208-1756 View (380) 208-1756

Nearby Searches for 45810

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45810

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45810 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use
100% Medication Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 45810 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45810?

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.