Psychiatrists in Addyston, OH

Photo of Ujaranne Onuorah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ujaranne Onuorah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a doctoral prepared, dual certified (Family and Psychiatric) Nurse practitioner with 14 years of experience both in the clinical setting and academia. I provide a safe space for my patients due to the sensitivity and vulnerability of each diverse patient.
I am a doctoral prepared, dual certified (Family and Psychiatric) Nurse practitioner with 14 years of experience both in the clinical setting and academia. I provide a safe space for my patients due to the sensitivity and vulnerability of each diverse patient.
(513) 447-4108 View (513) 447-4108
Photo of Linda Griffin Nsombi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Linda Griffin Nsombi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Linda Griffin Nsombi, I’ve worked in mental health for many years. Caring for clients of all ages and backgrounds as well as drug/alcohol addiction treatment. Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD and more. I look forward to assisting you with your life challenges. I will provide medication education as well as supportive therapy during medication management visit.
My name is Linda Griffin Nsombi, I’ve worked in mental health for many years. Caring for clients of all ages and backgrounds as well as drug/alcohol addiction treatment. Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD and more. I look forward to assisting you with your life challenges. I will provide medication education as well as supportive therapy during medication management visit.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Kristi Bates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Kristi Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Having a mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.
Having a mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.
(812) 472-6048 View (812) 472-6048
Photo of Chriscia Bane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chriscia Bane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care that includes psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan that supports your goals and helps you feel your best.
Hello, I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care that includes psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan that supports your goals and helps you feel your best.
(740) 721-6310 View (740) 721-6310

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Emmanuel Nji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Emmanuel Nji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
My name is Dr. Emmanuel Nji, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and five years of outstanding clinical experience. I am the founder of Gateway Psychiatric Services, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Chilicothe, Ohio, where I am dedicated to providing compassionate, whole-person psychiatric care to adults ready to reclaim their mental health and their lives.
My name is Dr. Emmanuel Nji, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and five years of outstanding clinical experience. I am the founder of Gateway Psychiatric Services, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Chilicothe, Ohio, where I am dedicated to providing compassionate, whole-person psychiatric care to adults ready to reclaim their mental health and their lives.
(740) 873-6928 View (740) 873-6928
Photo of Kenisha L Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Kenisha L Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Mason, OH 45040
I have been in the nursing profession for the past 25 years with a dedication to provide patients with compassionate, empathetic, and holistic care that supports the "whole" person, emotionally and physically, in order to help them achieve reconstitution.
I have been in the nursing profession for the past 25 years with a dedication to provide patients with compassionate, empathetic, and holistic care that supports the "whole" person, emotionally and physically, in order to help them achieve reconstitution.
(513) 647-3080 View (513) 647-3080
Photo of Taylor Schroeder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, CIMHP
Taylor Schroeder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, CIMHP
Online Only
We will work together to find the best options for your situation and look into ways to improve your mental well-being in the long run. We will focus on what will work best for you. We will get to the root of the cause of what is going on while also helping prevent future issues. We provide medication management, stress relief/mindfulness practices, nutrition, and movement options.
We will work together to find the best options for your situation and look into ways to improve your mental well-being in the long run. We will focus on what will work best for you. We will get to the root of the cause of what is going on while also helping prevent future issues. We provide medication management, stress relief/mindfulness practices, nutrition, and movement options.
(513) 599-0343 View (513) 599-0343
Photo of Drew Pittman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Drew Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently offering same week telehealth appointments for new patients in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
Currently offering same week telehealth appointments for new patients in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
(508) 960-7059 View (508) 960-7059
Photo of Simone Collier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Simone Collier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
One of the aspects of mental health care I am most passionate about is working underserved populations. I have seen how systemic barriers and cultural differences can impact an individual's mental health journey, and I strive to be an advocate for equitable care. I seek to address the unique needs of each individual while promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma in the communities I serve. I utilize a holistic and client-centered approach to medication management, recognizing that each person is unique and requires tailored interventions to achieve their goals.
One of the aspects of mental health care I am most passionate about is working underserved populations. I have seen how systemic barriers and cultural differences can impact an individual's mental health journey, and I strive to be an advocate for equitable care. I seek to address the unique needs of each individual while promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma in the communities I serve. I utilize a holistic and client-centered approach to medication management, recognizing that each person is unique and requires tailored interventions to achieve their goals.
(513) 998-6195 View (513) 998-6195
Photo of Amy Trent, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Amy Trent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Online Only
My clinical background includes working extensively with individuals in acute crisis through transitions into the community setting managing complex presentations that require timely assessment, stabilization, and coordinated treatment planning. I prioritize collaboration, clear communication, transparency and education with individuals and families to support optimal outcomes.
My clinical background includes working extensively with individuals in acute crisis through transitions into the community setting managing complex presentations that require timely assessment, stabilization, and coordinated treatment planning. I prioritize collaboration, clear communication, transparency and education with individuals and families to support optimal outcomes.
(513) 496-1413 View (513) 496-1413
Photo of Megen Yerman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Megen Yerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Megen is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with 6 years experience who works for a small private practice licensed in WA, IA, and OH. This ensures each clients gets undivided and personalized care that meets their needs. She makes sure every client feels heard and supported with easy communication between appointments, if needed. Megen specializes in helping adults with depression, anxiety, mood, and trauma. Her primary role is to prescribe medication while utilizing supplemental therapy techniques. She offers evening hours, next day availability, and no cancellation or no show fees.
Megen is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with 6 years experience who works for a small private practice licensed in WA, IA, and OH. This ensures each clients gets undivided and personalized care that meets their needs. She makes sure every client feels heard and supported with easy communication between appointments, if needed. Megen specializes in helping adults with depression, anxiety, mood, and trauma. Her primary role is to prescribe medication while utilizing supplemental therapy techniques. She offers evening hours, next day availability, and no cancellation or no show fees.
(206) 222-6898 View (206) 222-6898
Photo of Stephen Love, Psychiatrist, MD
Stephen Love
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I specialize in diagnostic clarification, advanced psychopharmacology, and existential psychotherapy. Misdiagnosis - and thus, inappropriate treatment - is a major problem in psychiatry. There are several different types of mental health conditions that are rooted in different causes and require different methods of treatment, even if they seem to be leading to the same set of symptoms. My aim is always to achieve clarity in what we’re actually dealing with and then to manage it accordingly, all while keeping one’s individual personhood front and center. I offer one-time second opinions in addition to long-term continuity of care.
I specialize in diagnostic clarification, advanced psychopharmacology, and existential psychotherapy. Misdiagnosis - and thus, inappropriate treatment - is a major problem in psychiatry. There are several different types of mental health conditions that are rooted in different causes and require different methods of treatment, even if they seem to be leading to the same set of symptoms. My aim is always to achieve clarity in what we’re actually dealing with and then to manage it accordingly, all while keeping one’s individual personhood front and center. I offer one-time second opinions in addition to long-term continuity of care.
(859) 287-4549 View (859) 287-4549
Photo of Pamela Pardon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Pamela Pardon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Pamela D. Pardõn, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and sole proprietor of Pearls of Wisdom Psychiatric Services LLC, established in August 2019, located in Lorain, Ohio. Pamela began her nursing career as an LPN, eventually earning a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing across the life span at Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Pamela has been a nurse for over 40 years. Pamela has delivered psychiatric care to individuals on inpatient and outpatient behavioral health units; provided support to callers on the 24-hour Crisis Hotline Services; and served as a team member of a community mental.
Pamela D. Pardõn, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and sole proprietor of Pearls of Wisdom Psychiatric Services LLC, established in August 2019, located in Lorain, Ohio. Pamela began her nursing career as an LPN, eventually earning a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing across the life span at Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Pamela has been a nurse for over 40 years. Pamela has delivered psychiatric care to individuals on inpatient and outpatient behavioral health units; provided support to callers on the 24-hour Crisis Hotline Services; and served as a team member of a community mental.
(614) 756-3035 View (614) 756-3035
Photo of Moses Kamuiru, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNPBC, APRN
Moses Kamuiru
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNPBC, APRN
2 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma-related conditions, and other mental health concerns. I focus on thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment planning in a supportive, nonjudgmental setting. My collaborative approach integrates medication management, psychoeducation, and brief therapeutic interventions to support symptom stabilization, improved functioning, and long-term emotional wellness. I am committed to building a strong therapeutic relationship with my patients.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma-related conditions, and other mental health concerns. I focus on thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment planning in a supportive, nonjudgmental setting. My collaborative approach integrates medication management, psychoeducation, and brief therapeutic interventions to support symptom stabilization, improved functioning, and long-term emotional wellness. I am committed to building a strong therapeutic relationship with my patients.
(513) 436-3205 View (513) 436-3205
Photo of Brandon Farler - Elevated Horizons Therapeutics, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, CRNA
Elevated Horizons Therapeutics
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, CRNA
West Chester, OH 45069
We are excited to serve adults suffering from a range of mental health concerns. We believe we are best suited to aid those who have not been helped by traditional medication management strategies. We meet each person where they are and seek to understand the larger picture before we speak.
We are excited to serve adults suffering from a range of mental health concerns. We believe we are best suited to aid those who have not been helped by traditional medication management strategies. We meet each person where they are and seek to understand the larger picture before we speak.
(513) 877-6916 View (513) 877-6916
Photo of Edwina R Zettler, Psychiatrist, MD
Edwina R Zettler
Psychiatrist, MD
Fairfield, OH 45014
I am an Adult Psychiatrist with a focus in addiction. Having worked 20 years in mental health and over 14 years in addiction, I am especially equipped to understand your unique experience. I provide comprehensive care by addressing not only your addiction but also any accompanying mental health issues. My practice is small, quiet and very confidential. You will NOT be treated like a "number" in a big box clinic. Your treatment will be individualized and specific to you. Therapy combined with medications such as Suboxone can help you to rebuild your life and live joyfully.
I am an Adult Psychiatrist with a focus in addiction. Having worked 20 years in mental health and over 14 years in addiction, I am especially equipped to understand your unique experience. I provide comprehensive care by addressing not only your addiction but also any accompanying mental health issues. My practice is small, quiet and very confidential. You will NOT be treated like a "number" in a big box clinic. Your treatment will be individualized and specific to you. Therapy combined with medications such as Suboxone can help you to rebuild your life and live joyfully.
(513) 496-3604 View (513) 496-3604
Photo of Courtney Wilder-Whiting, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Courtney Wilder-Whiting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
I work with adults navigating bipolar disorders, ADHD, substance use, anxiety, depression, trauma, other mental health disorders, and life stressors. Many feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start. I help by providing structured support, medication management, and practical strategies to regain stability, improve functioning, and move toward long-term recovery and emotional balance.
I work with adults navigating bipolar disorders, ADHD, substance use, anxiety, depression, trauma, other mental health disorders, and life stressors. Many feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start. I help by providing structured support, medication management, and practical strategies to regain stability, improve functioning, and move toward long-term recovery and emotional balance.
(813) 723-7144 View (813) 723-7144
Photo of Mistel Stassin - Care Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Care Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Cincinnati, OH 45206
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.
(513) 875-7491 View (513) 875-7491
Photo of Meredith Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Meredith Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I am Meredith a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am compassionate and dedicated to helping my patients live their healthiest life. I am committed to delivering holistic and integrative mental health services. I work closely with patients to develop personalized medication plans, ensuring that they receive the optimal care and support they need to manage their mental health symptoms. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health. I believe in meeting each patient at their unique point in their healing journey.
Hi, I am Meredith a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am compassionate and dedicated to helping my patients live their healthiest life. I am committed to delivering holistic and integrative mental health services. I work closely with patients to develop personalized medication plans, ensuring that they receive the optimal care and support they need to manage their mental health symptoms. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health. I believe in meeting each patient at their unique point in their healing journey.
(513) 643-5630 View (513) 643-5630
Photo of Ashley Altman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Ashley Altman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Treating Military / Veterans / First Responders / Helping Professionals and their families. I have lived experience as the wife of a veteran and local first responder and have worked in mental health for over 20 years. I am honored to work in this profession and humbled that you would choose me to be a part of your life, helping you with your vulnerabilities. We will work together to find a diagnosis and more importantly - to put together a treatment plan that works with you, so that you can return to being your best self for others.
Treating Military / Veterans / First Responders / Helping Professionals and their families. I have lived experience as the wife of a veteran and local first responder and have worked in mental health for over 20 years. I am honored to work in this profession and humbled that you would choose me to be a part of your life, helping you with your vulnerabilities. We will work together to find a diagnosis and more importantly - to put together a treatment plan that works with you, so that you can return to being your best self for others.
(513) 790-5177 View (513) 790-5177

See more therapy options for Addyston

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Addyston, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Addyston, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
50% Addiction
50% ADHD
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
50% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Addyston, OH see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Addyston?

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.