Psychiatrists in Brecksville, OH

Photo of Kamal-Neil S. Dass, DO, Psychiatrist
Kamal-Neil S. Dass
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
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 Esther Gotfryd, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Esther Gotfryd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Esther B. Gotfryd is certified by the American Academy of Nurse practitioners in Family practice and by the American Nurse Credentialing Center in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan. She received her Master's and Post Master's degrees in nursing from Ursuline College, specializing in family practice and psychiatry. Her previous experience includes work in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. She is a Suboxone provider for the treatment of opiate and opioid disorders. She provides medication management and therapy for ages 15-64.
Esther B. Gotfryd is certified by the American Academy of Nurse practitioners in Family practice and by the American Nurse Credentialing Center in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan. She received her Master's and Post Master's degrees in nursing from Ursuline College, specializing in family practice and psychiatry. Her previous experience includes work in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. She is a Suboxone provider for the treatment of opiate and opioid disorders. She provides medication management and therapy for ages 15-64.
(440) 664-1320 View (440) 664-1320
Photo of Elizabeth Pfalzgraf, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Pfalzgraf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Elizabeth Pfalzgraf earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and both bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, she has experience in outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health care and serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. She sees ages 6 to 64 and specializes in anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and schizophrenia.
Elizabeth Pfalzgraf earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and both bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, she has experience in outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health care and serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. She sees ages 6 to 64 and specializes in anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and schizophrenia.
(440) 616-8816 View (440) 616-8816
Photo of Dawn Whitehair, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawn Whitehair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Dawn is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in both adult and pediatric psychiatry. She has experience in outpatient and inpatient settings, as well as having dedicated 10+ years to cancer research prior to her nursing career in several specialties. During her nursing career, she was a recipient of the DAISY award. Dawn brings empathy, compassion, an easygoing communication style, and a sweet sense of humor, making it easy for her to engage with her patients and their family members. She is licensed to prescribe medications all across the lifespan and has full prescriptive authority.
Dawn is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in both adult and pediatric psychiatry. She has experience in outpatient and inpatient settings, as well as having dedicated 10+ years to cancer research prior to her nursing career in several specialties. During her nursing career, she was a recipient of the DAISY award. Dawn brings empathy, compassion, an easygoing communication style, and a sweet sense of humor, making it easy for her to engage with her patients and their family members. She is licensed to prescribe medications all across the lifespan and has full prescriptive authority.
(440) 598-5044 View (440) 598-5044
Photo of Dr. Anthony Smartnick - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(440) 276-3644 View (440) 276-3644
Photo of Syed E Ahmed, MD, Psychiatrist
Syed E Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
I have been practicing psychiatry for the last nearly 30 years and take great pride in my profession. I treat adults of all ages. My goal is to make the most accurate diagnosis possible, help my patients make the behavioral changes that would help them improve, treat them with the least amount of medication and keep them symptoms and side-effects free.
I have been practicing psychiatry for the last nearly 30 years and take great pride in my profession. I treat adults of all ages. My goal is to make the most accurate diagnosis possible, help my patients make the behavioral changes that would help them improve, treat them with the least amount of medication and keep them symptoms and side-effects free.
(440) 271-8492 View (440) 271-8492
Photo of Steve Pessefall, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steve Pessefall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141
Steve is Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (CNP) with a focus on providing treatment for a broad-spectrum of mental health disorders. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing Degree from The University of Akron and is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has experience in inpatient, outpatient, as well as community mental health settings as a Nurse Practitioner and over 25 years of experience as a Registered Nurse working in psychiatric / behavioral health hospitals. Steve has also earned his credential for Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) from The University of Maryland.
Steve is Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (CNP) with a focus on providing treatment for a broad-spectrum of mental health disorders. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing Degree from The University of Akron and is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has experience in inpatient, outpatient, as well as community mental health settings as a Nurse Practitioner and over 25 years of experience as a Registered Nurse working in psychiatric / behavioral health hospitals. Steve has also earned his credential for Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) from The University of Maryland.
(440) 530-6462 View (440) 530-6462
Photo of Shivnaveen Bains, MD, Psychiatrist
Shivnaveen Bains
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Dr. Shivnaveen Bains, MD, FAPA, is a compassionate and skilled psychiatrist practicing in Ohio, dedicated to supporting the mental health of children and adolescents. With a comprehensive approach, Dr. Bains specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. She offers thorough evaluations to address concerns like ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and mood disorders. In cases where medication is appropriate, Dr. Bains provides individualized, safe prescribing of psychotropic medications, carefully monitoring progress through regular follow-up appointments.
Dr. Shivnaveen Bains, MD, FAPA, is a compassionate and skilled psychiatrist practicing in Ohio, dedicated to supporting the mental health of children and adolescents. With a comprehensive approach, Dr. Bains specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. She offers thorough evaluations to address concerns like ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and mood disorders. In cases where medication is appropriate, Dr. Bains provides individualized, safe prescribing of psychotropic medications, carefully monitoring progress through regular follow-up appointments.
(440) 517-4342 View (440) 517-4342
Photo of Tina Steen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tina Steen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Tina Steen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. Tina is passionate about providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults throughout the lifespan. She possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients, families, and caregivers. Following evidence-based guidelines, Tina provides care that is informed by years of clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Tina's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, counselor, and scientist.
Tina Steen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. Tina is passionate about providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults throughout the lifespan. She possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients, families, and caregivers. Following evidence-based guidelines, Tina provides care that is informed by years of clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Tina's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, counselor, and scientist.
(440) 745-7155 View (440) 745-7155
Photo of Dr. Kristen Fite - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(216) 238-2935 View (216) 238-2935
Photo of Kristen Fite, MD, Psychiatrist
Kristen Fite
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Dr. Fite completed her medical degree at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, OH. She trained in adult psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic and continued there to complete a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, serving as chief fellow. Dr. Fite offers compassionate and holistic psychiatric care to individuals 6-26 years old, focusing on building trusting therapeutic relationships and understanding mental health symptoms within the context of each individual’s life circumstances.
Dr. Fite completed her medical degree at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, OH. She trained in adult psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic and continued there to complete a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, serving as chief fellow. Dr. Fite offers compassionate and holistic psychiatric care to individuals 6-26 years old, focusing on building trusting therapeutic relationships and understanding mental health symptoms within the context of each individual’s life circumstances.
(216) 358-0777 View (216) 358-0777
Anthony Smartnick
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Dr. Smartnick holds lifetime certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has more than 25 years of experience in inpatient, outpatient and private practice psychiatry working with adults. He earned his medical degree from Georgetown Medical School and served his residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland, where he was chief resident.
Dr. Smartnick holds lifetime certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has more than 25 years of experience in inpatient, outpatient and private practice psychiatry working with adults. He earned his medical degree from Georgetown Medical School and served his residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland, where he was chief resident.
(440) 739-6200 View (440) 739-6200
Leah Stallworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Leah Stallworth is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She attended Indiana Wesleyan University for undergraduate and graduate education. Leah's goal is to meet and accept each patient where they are mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, and work in conjunction with them and their chosen supports to achieve the person they desire to be. Outside of work Leah enjoys reading, aromatherapy, spending time with family and friends, and being a young hip "cat lady.
Leah Stallworth is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She attended Indiana Wesleyan University for undergraduate and graduate education. Leah's goal is to meet and accept each patient where they are mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, and work in conjunction with them and their chosen supports to achieve the person they desire to be. Outside of work Leah enjoys reading, aromatherapy, spending time with family and friends, and being a young hip "cat lady.
(216) 616-7469 View (216) 616-7469
Photo of Areum Kim, MD, Psychiatrist
Areum Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Dr. Kim graduated from The Ohio State University with a BS in Psychology. She completed medical school at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Kim was chief resident during her adult psychiatry training at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. She continued on at OSUWMC for her fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry in affiliation with Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. She was actively involved in the recruitment and education of medical students, residents, and fellows and also served as chief fellow in her final year of training.
Dr. Kim graduated from The Ohio State University with a BS in Psychology. She completed medical school at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Kim was chief resident during her adult psychiatry training at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. She continued on at OSUWMC for her fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry in affiliation with Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. She was actively involved in the recruitment and education of medical students, residents, and fellows and also served as chief fellow in her final year of training.
(216) 867-6166 View (216) 867-6166
Photo of Robert Ussai, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robert Ussai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Robert Ussai is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. His previous experience includes work in hospital and community outpatient practice settings. He currently provides medication management for adults ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Robert Ussai is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. His previous experience includes work in hospital and community outpatient practice settings. He currently provides medication management for adults ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(440) 762-6277 View (440) 762-6277

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sonia Praful Desai - Comprehensive Minds, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Comprehensive Minds, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Broadview Heights, OH 44147
Are you constantly struggling to find a provider that meets your needs? Having difficulty obtaining ADHD testing? Do you want a provider that will listen to you, make you feel heard and valid, and help you make the best medication choices for you? Look no further than Comprehensive Minds. Our excellent all-female team of providers can fit your needs, no matter the niche.
Are you constantly struggling to find a provider that meets your needs? Having difficulty obtaining ADHD testing? Do you want a provider that will listen to you, make you feel heard and valid, and help you make the best medication choices for you? Look no further than Comprehensive Minds. Our excellent all-female team of providers can fit your needs, no matter the niche.
(440) 554-0035 View (440) 554-0035
Photo of Shane Strnad, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shane Strnad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Shane Strnad is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care through healthy living habits, diet and exercise. He received his undergraduate and master s degrees in nursing from the University of Akron, where he is currently pursuing a doctoral degree and also has served as a lecturer and presenter. He has worked at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Mansfield, Ohio, and at community health centers in the Akron area.
Shane Strnad is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care through healthy living habits, diet and exercise. He received his undergraduate and master s degrees in nursing from the University of Akron, where he is currently pursuing a doctoral degree and also has served as a lecturer and presenter. He has worked at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Mansfield, Ohio, and at community health centers in the Akron area.
(216) 584-8861 View (216) 584-8861
Photo of Kayla Stewart, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kayla Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling invalidated? Not being heard about your needs? Looking for a provider to actually HEAR you about your symptoms and develop a plan WITH you, rather than generalizing for you? I'd love to help. Let's get you on the books so we can talk about the best way to meet your needs.
Feeling invalidated? Not being heard about your needs? Looking for a provider to actually HEAR you about your symptoms and develop a plan WITH you, rather than generalizing for you? I'd love to help. Let's get you on the books so we can talk about the best way to meet your needs.
(216) 369-6499 View (216) 369-6499
Photo of Jen Foren, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jen Foren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hudson, OH 44236
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in medication management for children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working in various mental health settings. I focus on improving a patient’s quality of life by looking at the whole picture and using a holistic approach.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that specializes in medication management for children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working in various mental health settings. I focus on improving a patient’s quality of life by looking at the whole picture and using a holistic approach.
(330) 325-4701 View (330) 325-4701
Photo of Linda Cunningham, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in adult psychiatry and addictions. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Akron. I have a wide variety of experience in the mental health field including both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, inpatient psychiatric consultation, psychiatric emergency medicine, geriatric psychiatry and addictions.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in adult psychiatry and addictions. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Akron. I have a wide variety of experience in the mental health field including both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, inpatient psychiatric consultation, psychiatric emergency medicine, geriatric psychiatry and addictions.
(216) 626-7299 View (216) 626-7299

See more therapy options for Brecksville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Brecksville, OH

10+

Average cost per session

$230

Psychiatrists in Brecksville, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Medication Management
93% Depression
93% Anxiety
93% Bipolar Disorder
87% Trauma and PTSD
80% ADHD
73% Psychosis

Average years in practice

35 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Humana
100% TRICARE

How Psychiatrists in Brecksville, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Brecksville?

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.