Psychiatrists in Florence, KY

Photo of Ofonime J. Ekpe - Gloxel Mental and Behavioral Health LLC, PMHNP-, BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gloxel Mental and Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you experiencing less interest in your regular hobbies or not just "caring anymore?" Are you experiencing excessive fear and anxiety that is hard to explain sometimes? Are you thinking maybe I have ADHD? Or wondering if perhaps the cause of your day-to-day struggles might be related to your past trauma? Do not carry the burden alone anymore. We can work together using an individualized treatment plan specific to your needs.
Are you experiencing less interest in your regular hobbies or not just "caring anymore?" Are you experiencing excessive fear and anxiety that is hard to explain sometimes? Are you thinking maybe I have ADHD? Or wondering if perhaps the cause of your day-to-day struggles might be related to your past trauma? Do not carry the burden alone anymore. We can work together using an individualized treatment plan specific to your needs.
(859) 374-3634 View (859) 374-3634
Photo of Martha Lee Walden - Ascend Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Ascend Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
All of our practitioners at Ascend Behavioral Health deliver traditional behavioral healthcare provided in a comfortable and non-judgmental setting. We provide services in a way that harkens back to a simpler time. Our offices are located within walking distance to Christ Hospital housed inside a beautiful, timeless historic building dating back to the Lincoln presidency. We treat patients with all varieties of mental illness on an outpatient basis both in-person and online. We treat our patients in a non-corporate environment so that every patient is given individual attention and strict confidentiality.
All of our practitioners at Ascend Behavioral Health deliver traditional behavioral healthcare provided in a comfortable and non-judgmental setting. We provide services in a way that harkens back to a simpler time. Our offices are located within walking distance to Christ Hospital housed inside a beautiful, timeless historic building dating back to the Lincoln presidency. We treat patients with all varieties of mental illness on an outpatient basis both in-person and online. We treat our patients in a non-corporate environment so that every patient is given individual attention and strict confidentiality.
(513) 643-2003 View (513) 643-2003
Photo of Magdalen Mekoh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Magdalen Mekoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Magdalen Mekoh. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Kentucky. I am passionate about helping those suffering with psychiatric/mental health and substance abuse in a non-judgemental way giving them a platform to express themselves without fear of being judged because of their struggles. My approach is holistic and getting to the root of the problem. To do that, I will first assess to identify the problem, then diagnose, prescribe medication if needed and offer psychotherapy as needed.
My name is Magdalen Mekoh. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Kentucky. I am passionate about helping those suffering with psychiatric/mental health and substance abuse in a non-judgemental way giving them a platform to express themselves without fear of being judged because of their struggles. My approach is holistic and getting to the root of the problem. To do that, I will first assess to identify the problem, then diagnose, prescribe medication if needed and offer psychotherapy as needed.
(859) 459-0798 View (859) 459-0798
Photo of Sandra Edwards, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
(859) 927-8539 View (859) 927-8539
Photo of Justine Sever Chilelli, DO, ABPN, Psychiatrist
Justine Sever Chilelli
Psychiatrist, DO, ABPN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am happy to be offering psychiatric treatment to the Northern Kentucky area. Dual board certification in both general psychiatry as well as child & adolescent psychiatry allows me to treat a wide age range of patients from age 5 through age 60; however my primarily areas of interest align with child, adolescent, and transitional adults.
I am happy to be offering psychiatric treatment to the Northern Kentucky area. Dual board certification in both general psychiatry as well as child & adolescent psychiatry allows me to treat a wide age range of patients from age 5 through age 60; however my primarily areas of interest align with child, adolescent, and transitional adults.
(859) 545-3798 View (859) 545-3798
Photo of Lori Henson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori Henson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Lori Henson, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been a psych. nurse practitioner for over 10 yrs. and have worked for many different patient populations. I have worked with children's thru adults with all types of mental health disorders. I have also worked in addiction medicine. I have a passion for treating chronic mental illness, mood disorders, and PTSD. I have a patient centered approach to care. I am an active listener and get to know psychosocial situations for each patient that effect each patient to improve outcomes.
My name is Lori Henson, and I am a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have been a psych. nurse practitioner for over 10 yrs. and have worked for many different patient populations. I have worked with children's thru adults with all types of mental health disorders. I have also worked in addiction medicine. I have a passion for treating chronic mental illness, mood disorders, and PTSD. I have a patient centered approach to care. I am an active listener and get to know psychosocial situations for each patient that effect each patient to improve outcomes.
(859) 295-6862 View (859) 295-6862
Photo of Kalyan Subedi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kalyan Subedi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Kalyan Subedi, DNP, PMHNP. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. My approach to care is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as CBT and psychopharmacology, tailored to each patient’s needs.
Hello, my name is Dr. Kalyan Subedi, DNP, PMHNP. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. My focus is on providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's unique mental health needs. My approach to care is patient-centered and holistic, focusing on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as CBT and psychopharmacology, tailored to each patient’s needs.
(859) 374-2204 View (859) 374-2204
Photo of Nicole Asante, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville Tennessee and working with clients Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Dr. Nicole Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as Family Nurse Practitioner based in Knoxville Tennessee and working with clients Tennessee and Kentucky via telehealth. I work with age 15 and above and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse, strong knowledge in Veteran's care, schizophrenia as well as other mental health conditions, I believe in a combination of medication regimen and counseling to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(859) 696-7861 View (859) 696-7861
Photo of Holly Kent, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have over ten years of experience in nursing and different areas of expertise including critical care and psychiatry. I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past four years. I am a member of the America Psychiatric Nurses Association. I work with clients across the lifespans and specialized in assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar and ADHD.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have over ten years of experience in nursing and different areas of expertise including critical care and psychiatry. I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past four years. I am a member of the America Psychiatric Nurses Association. I work with clients across the lifespans and specialized in assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar and ADHD.
(859) 374-7292 View (859) 374-7292
Photo of Tina Shelton-Coomer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tina Shelton-Coomer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
Hi there, I'm Tina Coomer- PMHNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Positive and understanding approach without judgement. My specialty is Bipolar 1 and 2. I treat both college age to adults in all areas of mental health. My approach to care is client centered with a combination of medication and recommended therapy depending on situation.
(859) 648-3035 View (859) 648-3035
Photo of Rachel Byrd, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Byrd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At CHNK Behavioral Health, we serve children, adolescents, adults, and families who have mental health barriers, need addiction treatment, or are exhibiting other behaviors that negatively impact their daily lives at home, in the classroom, or at work.
At CHNK Behavioral Health, we serve children, adolescents, adults, and families who have mental health barriers, need addiction treatment, or are exhibiting other behaviors that negatively impact their daily lives at home, in the classroom, or at work.
(859) 279-4106 View (859) 279-4106
Photo of Tiffiney Burchett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffiney Burchett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Tiffiney Burchett, a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental healthcare, with a focus on treating mood and anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to develop a personalized plan that supports your mental wellness. My approach to care is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to individualized treatment.
Hello, I'm Tiffiney Burchett, a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to mental healthcare, with a focus on treating mood and anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to develop a personalized plan that supports your mental wellness. My approach to care is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to individualized treatment.
(859) 328-6931 View (859) 328-6931
Photo of Leslie Powell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leslie Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
(859) 765-7260 View (859) 765-7260
Photo of Jose Cruz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jose Cruz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Jose Cruz, and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. My approach to mental health support is holistic and client centered. While my primary focus is medication management, therapeutic approaches are woven into sessions with clients, such as supportive therapy, solution focused therapy and behavioral activation. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. I see a number of clients who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I can help you manage a variety of mental health needs including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
My name is Jose Cruz, and I am a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. My approach to mental health support is holistic and client centered. While my primary focus is medication management, therapeutic approaches are woven into sessions with clients, such as supportive therapy, solution focused therapy and behavioral activation. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. I see a number of clients who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I can help you manage a variety of mental health needs including ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(859) 695-6320 View (859) 695-6320

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Promise Haynes - Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Providing appointments 100% online. Accepting new patients with insurance from anywhere in the state of New York or Kentucky! Cash payment is also available. Do you feel lost in a room full of darkness? Is it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Have you lost joy in what used to be important to you? Are you suffering from anxiety that is preventing you from living your life to the fullest? We can help! At Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness we want to help you find the light in the darkness and bring hope and healing.
Providing appointments 100% online. Accepting new patients with insurance from anywhere in the state of New York or Kentucky! Cash payment is also available. Do you feel lost in a room full of darkness? Is it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Have you lost joy in what used to be important to you? Are you suffering from anxiety that is preventing you from living your life to the fullest? We can help! At Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness we want to help you find the light in the darkness and bring hope and healing.
(332) 378-5979 View (332) 378-5979
Photo of Magdalen Mekoh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Magdalen Mekoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Kentucky. I received my Masters degree from Northern Kentucky University and have been practicing for over a year. I help people struggling with mental disorders like anxiety, depression, trauma, panic disorder, ADHD, etc. to function normally in their day to day lives by using the method of assessment, diagnosing, prescribing medication (medication management), and psychotherapy.
Hi! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Kentucky. I received my Masters degree from Northern Kentucky University and have been practicing for over a year. I help people struggling with mental disorders like anxiety, depression, trauma, panic disorder, ADHD, etc. to function normally in their day to day lives by using the method of assessment, diagnosing, prescribing medication (medication management), and psychotherapy.
(859) 374-8708 View (859) 374-8708
Photo of Dr. Patricia Eshleman Latimer, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Patricia Eshleman Latimer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Covington, KY 41015
Hello! I'm currently accepting new patients as of February 2025! I'm a wife, mother, psychiatrist, and psychotherapist. My approach to mental health care is holistic and individualized based on your needs, using nutrition and lifestyle, psychotherapy, and medication management if needed. Given my approach is so comprehensive, each follow up appointment is scheduled for an hour long.
Hello! I'm currently accepting new patients as of February 2025! I'm a wife, mother, psychiatrist, and psychotherapist. My approach to mental health care is holistic and individualized based on your needs, using nutrition and lifestyle, psychotherapy, and medication management if needed. Given my approach is so comprehensive, each follow up appointment is scheduled for an hour long.
(513) 957-4774 View (513) 957-4774
Photo of Cindy Tufarella, APRN-BC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cindy Tufarella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, KY 41001
Cindy Tufarella is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnnati. She earned her post master's in psychiatric/mental health from Rivier University. She has worked in healthcare for over 20 years including inpatient and outpatient mental health, clinic, and urgent care settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
Cindy Tufarella is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnnati. She earned her post master's in psychiatric/mental health from Rivier University. She has worked in healthcare for over 20 years including inpatient and outpatient mental health, clinic, and urgent care settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
(859) 955-8983 View (859) 955-8983
Photo of Aiyesha Stiles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aiyesha Stiles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
(859) 208-2999 View (859) 208-2999
Photo of Janecia King - New Concepts II, LLC, DNP, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Concepts II, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At New Concepts II, LLC, your privacy, mental well-being, and personal growth are our top priorities. As a dedicated psychiatric and addiction clinic serving Ohio and Kentucky, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. We specialize in diagnosing and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD, empowering you to regain control and find balance. As a women, minority, and veteran-owned practice, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every story matters. Let us help you take the next step toward healing. "Every Story Has a Purpose"
At New Concepts II, LLC, your privacy, mental well-being, and personal growth are our top priorities. As a dedicated psychiatric and addiction clinic serving Ohio and Kentucky, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. We specialize in diagnosing and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD, empowering you to regain control and find balance. As a women, minority, and veteran-owned practice, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every story matters. Let us help you take the next step toward healing. "Every Story Has a Purpose"
(513) 960-6077 View (513) 960-6077

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Florence, KY

10+

Average cost per session

$183

Psychiatrists in Florence, KY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
86% Bipolar Disorder
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
57% Trauma and PTSD
57% Other

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Florence, KY see their clients

78% Online Only
22% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Florence?

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.