Psychiatrists in Beachwood, OH

Photo of Daniel Gonzalez, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Gonzalez
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Accepting new patients! My name is Dr. Daniel Gonzalez. I'm a Cleveland native who completed undergraduate at Miami University of Ohio before going into medical school at the University of Toledo. After obtaining my medical degree (M.D.), I then completed my Adult Psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic. I am currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in Adult Psychiatry. I work exclusively with adults (18+), and while I have a special interest in mood and anxiety disorders I see the full spectrum of psychiatric illnesses. I also particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
Accepting new patients! My name is Dr. Daniel Gonzalez. I'm a Cleveland native who completed undergraduate at Miami University of Ohio before going into medical school at the University of Toledo. After obtaining my medical degree (M.D.), I then completed my Adult Psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic. I am currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in Adult Psychiatry. I work exclusively with adults (18+), and while I have a special interest in mood and anxiety disorders I see the full spectrum of psychiatric illnesses. I also particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
(216) 369-6523 View (216) 369-6523
Photo of James Srp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
James Srp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Beachwood, OH 44122
James Srp has been working in the field of addictions for the past 30 years. He was most recently a nurse practitioner at Addiction Recovery Services of University Hospitals of Cleveland, a program he helped develop in 2004 after an 18 year tenure as a staff nurse, followed by service as a clinical nurse specialist for the Cleveland Clinic Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center. He holds a master's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University, a master's degree in nursing from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), and a bachelor's degree in nursing from Ursuline College.
James Srp has been working in the field of addictions for the past 30 years. He was most recently a nurse practitioner at Addiction Recovery Services of University Hospitals of Cleveland, a program he helped develop in 2004 after an 18 year tenure as a staff nurse, followed by service as a clinical nurse specialist for the Cleveland Clinic Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center. He holds a master's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University, a master's degree in nursing from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), and a bachelor's degree in nursing from Ursuline College.
(216) 677-1840 View (216) 677-1840
Photo of DeBalzo Elgudin Levine Risen - DeBalzo, Elgudin, Levine, Risen LLC, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, CNS, LPCC, LISW-S
DeBalzo, Elgudin, Levine, Risen LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, CNS, LPCC, LISW-S
Beachwood, OH 44122
We are a comprehensive psychiatric and mental health practice offering a wide spectrum of evidence-based therapies. We provide services to children/adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our services include psychiatric evaluation and medication management, individual psychotherapy, couples and family therapy, psychological testing, genomic testing for medication sensitivity, and evaluation and therapy for sexual and gender-related concerns. We offer ADHD assessment with the QbTest which is a FDA cleared computer based objective test.
We are a comprehensive psychiatric and mental health practice offering a wide spectrum of evidence-based therapies. We provide services to children/adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our services include psychiatric evaluation and medication management, individual psychotherapy, couples and family therapy, psychological testing, genomic testing for medication sensitivity, and evaluation and therapy for sexual and gender-related concerns. We offer ADHD assessment with the QbTest which is a FDA cleared computer based objective test.
(216) 831-2900 View (216) 831-2900
Photo of Larissa Elgudin - ADHD Assessment at DELR, Psychiatrist, MD, CNS, PhD, LISW
ADHD Assessment at DELR
Psychiatrist, MD, CNS, PhD, LISW
Beachwood, OH 44122
DELR offers comprehensive ADHD assessment, evaluation and treatment. The evaluation includes taking an objective, computerized test, the QbTest, which is an FDA approved advanced test for the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. It is also used to gain a clear understanding of ADHD symptoms. The QbTest measures activity level, impulse control, and the ability to maintain attention. The results of the QbTest are used to create a report which compares an individual's results with data from other people of the same sex and age.
DELR offers comprehensive ADHD assessment, evaluation and treatment. The evaluation includes taking an objective, computerized test, the QbTest, which is an FDA approved advanced test for the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. It is also used to gain a clear understanding of ADHD symptoms. The QbTest measures activity level, impulse control, and the ability to maintain attention. The results of the QbTest are used to create a report which compares an individual's results with data from other people of the same sex and age.
(216) 831-2900 View (216) 831-2900
Photo of Nicholas Eilbeck, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicholas Eilbeck
Psychiatrist, MD
Beachwood, OH 44122
Dr. Eilbeck serves as Division Associate Medical Director for LifeStance Health. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and completed his child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at University Hospitals of Cleveland, where he also was Chief Fellow. He attended Case Western Reserve University, where he graduated magna cum laude and was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa honor society. After completing medical school at the University of Toledo College of Medicine, Dr. Eilbeck served as Chief Resident during his adult psychiatry training at the University of Toledo Medical Center.
Dr. Eilbeck serves as Division Associate Medical Director for LifeStance Health. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and completed his child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at University Hospitals of Cleveland, where he also was Chief Fellow. He attended Case Western Reserve University, where he graduated magna cum laude and was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa honor society. After completing medical school at the University of Toledo College of Medicine, Dr. Eilbeck served as Chief Resident during his adult psychiatry training at the University of Toledo Medical Center.
(216) 446-6735 View (216) 446-6735
Photo of Gayatriben Gadani, Psychiatrist, MD
Gayatriben Gadani
Psychiatrist, MD
Beachwood, OH 44122
Dr. Gadani is a board-certified psychiatrist with over five years of experience in psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Medical College Baroda in India. She previously worked at Saint Louis University Hospital and Mercy Hospital South in St. Louis, Missouri. She focuses on treating adults and specializes in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorders and anxiety disorders. She is a member of the American Psychiatry Association and the Missouri Psychiatry Association.
Dr. Gadani is a board-certified psychiatrist with over five years of experience in psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Medical College Baroda in India. She previously worked at Saint Louis University Hospital and Mercy Hospital South in St. Louis, Missouri. She focuses on treating adults and specializes in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorders and anxiety disorders. She is a member of the American Psychiatry Association and the Missouri Psychiatry Association.
(216) 868-7610 View (216) 868-7610
Photo of Michael Barnes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Michael Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hi! My name is Michael Barnes. I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about helping clients with their mental health needs. I have worked in numerous mental health settings and I have experience with a wide range of mental health conditions. I am a retired Army Veteran and have a special interest in treating trauma and addiction.
Hi! My name is Michael Barnes. I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about helping clients with their mental health needs. I have worked in numerous mental health settings and I have experience with a wide range of mental health conditions. I am a retired Army Veteran and have a special interest in treating trauma and addiction.
(440) 467-3655 View (440) 467-3655
Photo of Toby Bourisseau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Toby Bourisseau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Beachwood, OH 44122
Toby Bourisseau, APRN, CNS, provides specialized psychiatric treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults at LifeStance Health in Ohio. Toby's compassionate approach focuses on anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma, and behavioral disorders. She also works extensively with children and adolescents who have learning differences and co-occurring medical disorders, fostering a therapeutic environment that promotes mental wellness and growth. Toby is particularly passionate about working with patients dealing with autism, OCD, trauma, and adoption/attachment issues.
Toby Bourisseau, APRN, CNS, provides specialized psychiatric treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults at LifeStance Health in Ohio. Toby's compassionate approach focuses on anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma, and behavioral disorders. She also works extensively with children and adolescents who have learning differences and co-occurring medical disorders, fostering a therapeutic environment that promotes mental wellness and growth. Toby is particularly passionate about working with patients dealing with autism, OCD, trauma, and adoption/attachment issues.
(216) 516-0571 View (216) 516-0571
Photo of Ashley King Np-C - KC Center for Health and Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
KC Center for Health and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Beachwood, OH 44122
Are you or a loved one suffering from an addiction and/or depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help? Do you need a little assistance with losing weight or just need someone who is non judgmental to talk to? Are you currently looking for a psychiatric provider to refill your medication since your previous provider retired or relocated? Are you tired of waiting hours to see your provider? Are you tired of going to several specialist for your mental health, primary care and chronic pain needs? Well look no further! KC Center for Health and Wellness is here waiting for you! Call NOW! Same week availability.
Are you or a loved one suffering from an addiction and/or depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help? Do you need a little assistance with losing weight or just need someone who is non judgmental to talk to? Are you currently looking for a psychiatric provider to refill your medication since your previous provider retired or relocated? Are you tired of waiting hours to see your provider? Are you tired of going to several specialist for your mental health, primary care and chronic pain needs? Well look no further! KC Center for Health and Wellness is here waiting for you! Call NOW! Same week availability.
(216) 350-1847 View (216) 350-1847
Photo of Navjoth Karuvannur, Psychiatrist, DO
Navjoth Karuvannur
Psychiatrist, DO
Beachwood, OH 44122
Dr. Karuvannur (Dr. K) is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2018. He is dual board certified in both child/adolescent and adult psychiatry. He trained in adult psychiatry at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, NY where he served as the education committee representative. He completed his child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Cleveland Clinic where he served as chief fellow. He is a member of the American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Psychiatric Association, and the Ohio Psychiatric Physician’s Association.
Dr. Karuvannur (Dr. K) is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2018. He is dual board certified in both child/adolescent and adult psychiatry. He trained in adult psychiatry at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, NY where he served as the education committee representative. He completed his child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Cleveland Clinic where he served as chief fellow. He is a member of the American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Psychiatric Association, and the Ohio Psychiatric Physician’s Association.
(216) 284-7910 View (216) 284-7910
Photo of Neeti Wyckoff, Psychiatrist, DO
Neeti Wyckoff
Psychiatrist, DO
Beachwood, OH 44122
Dr. Wyckoff is board certified and a fellow of the American Board of Pediatrics. She is a graduate of the University of Rochester and the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine and served her residency at The Cleveland Clinic. She also served as staff pediatrician at both Akron City Hospital and Akron General Medical Center and was attending pediatrician at Akron Children's Hospital. Dr. Wyckoff completed her portal fellowship in child and adult psychiatry at University Hospitals, developing a Depression Toolkit for use at Rainbow Babies' and Children's Hospital.
Dr. Wyckoff is board certified and a fellow of the American Board of Pediatrics. She is a graduate of the University of Rochester and the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine and served her residency at The Cleveland Clinic. She also served as staff pediatrician at both Akron City Hospital and Akron General Medical Center and was attending pediatrician at Akron Children's Hospital. Dr. Wyckoff completed her portal fellowship in child and adult psychiatry at University Hospitals, developing a Depression Toolkit for use at Rainbow Babies' and Children's Hospital.
(216) 714-8135 View (216) 714-8135
Photo of Stephen McAllister, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephen McAllister
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide compassionate, individualized care, believing every person's mental wellness journey is unique. I offer a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and valued. My practice focuses on medication management and therapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I do not prescribe Schedule-II medications for ADHD, including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Vyvanse, Concerta, amphetamines, methamphetamine, or methylphenidate.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide compassionate, individualized care, believing every person's mental wellness journey is unique. I offer a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and valued. My practice focuses on medication management and therapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I do not prescribe Schedule-II medications for ADHD, including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Vyvanse, Concerta, amphetamines, methamphetamine, or methylphenidate.
(440) 762-7712 View (440) 762-7712
Photo of Aditi Sheth, Psychiatrist, MD
Aditi Sheth
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Aditi Sheth is a compassionate and experienced psychiatrist specializing in the mental health needs of both adults and children. With over 15 years of practice, she provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances. Dr. Sheth’s work spans diverse settings, including outpatient clinics, residential programs, and correctional facilities, where she delivers high-quality psychiatric care through both in-person and telepsychiatry services. Her commitment to her patients is evident in her meticulous approach to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support.
Dr. Aditi Sheth is a compassionate and experienced psychiatrist specializing in the mental health needs of both adults and children. With over 15 years of practice, she provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances. Dr. Sheth’s work spans diverse settings, including outpatient clinics, residential programs, and correctional facilities, where she delivers high-quality psychiatric care through both in-person and telepsychiatry services. Her commitment to her patients is evident in her meticulous approach to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support.
(440) 771-7965 View (440) 771-7965
Photo of Kamal-Neil S. Dass, Psychiatrist, DO
Kamal-Neil S. Dass
Psychiatrist, DO
Beachwood, OH 44122
I am a lifelong Clevelander. I graduated from Beachwood High School in 1987 and completed my undergraduate education at Cleveland State University. I then completed my first two years of medical school in Athens, OH at Ohio University. My last two years of medical school training were done in Warrensville, OH at what used to be called Brentwood Hospital and later Meridia South Pointe Hospital. I graduated medical school in 1996. I then completed a General Psychiatry residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at University Hospitals of Cleveland.
I am a lifelong Clevelander. I graduated from Beachwood High School in 1987 and completed my undergraduate education at Cleveland State University. I then completed my first two years of medical school in Athens, OH at Ohio University. My last two years of medical school training were done in Warrensville, OH at what used to be called Brentwood Hospital and later Meridia South Pointe Hospital. I graduated medical school in 1996. I then completed a General Psychiatry residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at University Hospitals of Cleveland.
(216) 810-3121 View (216) 810-3121
Photo of Noah L Miller, Psychiatrist, MD
Noah L Miller
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I am board certified in both general psychiatry and child & adolescent psychiatry. As such, I not only see children and adolescents but also young adults. I prefer to work with this age group but I will consider working with middle-aged adults as long as it is a good "fit" for my practice. Also please know that my practice is not in any insurance networks, though we will submit all billing to your insurance so that you can collect any out-of-network benefits. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating ADHD & behavioral disorders, depression & other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and autism spectrum disorder.
I am board certified in both general psychiatry and child & adolescent psychiatry. As such, I not only see children and adolescents but also young adults. I prefer to work with this age group but I will consider working with middle-aged adults as long as it is a good "fit" for my practice. Also please know that my practice is not in any insurance networks, though we will submit all billing to your insurance so that you can collect any out-of-network benefits. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating ADHD & behavioral disorders, depression & other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and autism spectrum disorder.
(216) 250-9339 View (216) 250-9339
Photo of Ariel Mintz, Psychiatrist, MD
Ariel Mintz
Psychiatrist, MD
Beachwood, OH 44122
Dr. Ariel Mintz, dual certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, attended medical school at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan. He trained in General Psychiatry at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota and completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic. He previously founded and worked at Kesher Psychiatry, an early adopter of telepsychiatry.
Dr. Ariel Mintz, dual certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, attended medical school at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan. He trained in General Psychiatry at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota and completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic. He previously founded and worked at Kesher Psychiatry, an early adopter of telepsychiatry.
(216) 677-4969 View (216) 677-4969
Photo of Erin Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erin Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Ohio, treating patients from age 6 through adulthood. My approach to providing mental healthcare is to provide medication based on the needs of the patient. I encourage the patient to be open and honest about how they are feeling and what they are going through so I can help with providing medication if necessary.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Ohio, treating patients from age 6 through adulthood. My approach to providing mental healthcare is to provide medication based on the needs of the patient. I encourage the patient to be open and honest about how they are feeling and what they are going through so I can help with providing medication if necessary.
(440) 588-2612 View (440) 588-2612
Photo of Nicole D Berry - The Evolution through Mind, Body, and Spirit, LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MHA, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
The Evolution through Mind, Body, and Spirit, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MHA, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Beachwood, OH 44122
Not accepting new clients
My name is Nicole Berry, and I am a dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, or even an addiction to substances, I am here for you. My experience as a Nurse Practitioner includes, a variety of assessments for proper diagnosing, pharmacological management, group and individual therapies, and much more. With my vast experience, my goal is to assist you in becoming the best you, you can become, holistically.
My name is Nicole Berry, and I am a dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, or even an addiction to substances, I am here for you. My experience as a Nurse Practitioner includes, a variety of assessments for proper diagnosing, pharmacological management, group and individual therapies, and much more. With my vast experience, my goal is to assist you in becoming the best you, you can become, holistically.
(440) 577-5984 View (440) 577-5984
Photo of Clara Pieh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Clara Pieh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am an Advanced-Practice Registered Nurse with board certifications as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Practice NP-BC. My approach to mental health care is individualized and based on the needs of each client seeking non-judgmental and supportive care. I prescribe medication and incorporate therapy when indicated for maximum benefit. We can work together to start building a safe and healthy mental health journey with life-long skills for productive living.
I am an Advanced-Practice Registered Nurse with board certifications as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Practice NP-BC. My approach to mental health care is individualized and based on the needs of each client seeking non-judgmental and supportive care. I prescribe medication and incorporate therapy when indicated for maximum benefit. We can work together to start building a safe and healthy mental health journey with life-long skills for productive living.
(440) 737-3203 View (440) 737-3203
Photo of Deanna Berry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Deanna Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Beachwood, OH 44122
Deanna Berry is a nurse practitioner dually certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as adult-geriatric primary care. She has 20 years experience as nurse. She received her bachelor's degree, master's degree and post-master's certification in nursing from Ursuline College in Cleveland, OH and is certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
Deanna Berry is a nurse practitioner dually certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as adult-geriatric primary care. She has 20 years experience as nurse. She received her bachelor's degree, master's degree and post-master's certification in nursing from Ursuline College in Cleveland, OH and is certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
(440) 762-6239 View (440) 762-6239
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See more therapy options for Beachwood

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Beachwood, OH

50+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Beachwood, OH who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
90% Anxiety
78% Bipolar Disorder
70% Trauma and PTSD
68% ADHD
64% Medication Management
48% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Aetna
93% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
91% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Beachwood, OH see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Beachwood?

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.