Psychiatrists in Chagrin Falls, OH

Photo of Kara Jeanine Reilly, PMHNP, APRN, LSW, LICDC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kara Jeanine Reilly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, LSW, LICDC, RN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked in the behavioral health field for 12-years as a social worker, substance abuse counselor, nurse, and nurse practitioner. I obtained by Bachelors in Psychology from Ohio State University in 2009, obtained by Master's in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh in 2012, nursing license in 2017 and Master's in Nursing in 2018 with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health. I am certified by ANCC. With my diverse background in mental health, I will be able to provide an eclectic treatment plan that is best suited for you. Services will be completed over a secure virtual platform. no in person visits will be needed.
I have worked in the behavioral health field for 12-years as a social worker, substance abuse counselor, nurse, and nurse practitioner. I obtained by Bachelors in Psychology from Ohio State University in 2009, obtained by Master's in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh in 2012, nursing license in 2017 and Master's in Nursing in 2018 with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health. I am certified by ANCC. With my diverse background in mental health, I will be able to provide an eclectic treatment plan that is best suited for you. Services will be completed over a secure virtual platform. no in person visits will be needed.
(216) 358-0899 View (216) 358-0899
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(216) 306-5840 View (216) 306-5840
Photo of DeBalzo Elgudin Levine Risen - DeBalzo, Elgudin, Levine, Risen LLC, MD, PhD, CNS, LPCC, LISW-S, Psychiatrist
DeBalzo, Elgudin, Levine, Risen LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, CNS, LPCC, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(216) 616-5325 View (216) 616-5325
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(216) 238-6285 View (216) 238-6285
Photo of Marc Whitsett - The Ridge, MD, FASAM, ABAM, DABIM, Psychiatrist
The Ridge
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, ABAM, DABIM
Verified Verified
Serves Area
The Ridge is a premier drug & alcohol treatment and detox center near Cincinnati, Ohio. Located on a private 51-acre estate, we offer evidence-based treatment with five-star amenities, including chef-prepared gourmet meals, a swimming pool, and a peaceful, home-like environment. With only 27 beds, we provide the highest quality, intensive addiction treatment for men and women. Our individualized treatment programs are tailored for each client's needs and include individual, group, and family counseling in addition to complementary supports like yoga, meditation, walking, music, and art therapy. Following residential treatment, clients can receive at least 52 weeks of aftercare and join our alumni community.
The Ridge is a premier drug & alcohol treatment and detox center near Cincinnati, Ohio. Located on a private 51-acre estate, we offer evidence-based treatment with five-star amenities, including chef-prepared gourmet meals, a swimming pool, and a peaceful, home-like environment. With only 27 beds, we provide the highest quality, intensive addiction treatment for men and women. Our individualized treatment programs are tailored for each client's needs and include individual, group, and family counseling in addition to complementary supports like yoga, meditation, walking, music, and art therapy. Following residential treatment, clients can receive at least 52 weeks of aftercare and join our alumni community.
(513) 813-2949 View (513) 813-2949
Photo of Gerald Makobong, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
(216) 677-1483 View (216) 677-1483
Photo of Samareh Moussavand - Dr Moussavand Tranquility Center, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Moussavand Tranquility Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Each individual is unique with unique personality and unique needs. Therefore we provide individual treatment customized for you or your child. Multiculturalism also informs our practice. We are a full-service mental health practice with the capacity to serve adults, children, teens and their parents.
Each individual is unique with unique personality and unique needs. Therefore we provide individual treatment customized for you or your child. Multiculturalism also informs our practice. We are a full-service mental health practice with the capacity to serve adults, children, teens and their parents.
(440) 482-7719 View (440) 482-7719
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(216) 284-5146 View (216) 284-5146
Photo of Alex McCormick, DO, Psychiatrist
Alex McCormick
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I help those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, or illness that keeps them from fulfilling their full potential. My approach is to optimize wellness by combining integrative and holistic principles with the traditional practice of psychiatry. As an osteopathic physician, my foundation is based on principles of treating the whole person, incorporating mind, body, and spirit; acknowledging that the body is capable of self-regulation and self-healing; and realizing that structure and function are reciprocally related.
I help those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, or illness that keeps them from fulfilling their full potential. My approach is to optimize wellness by combining integrative and holistic principles with the traditional practice of psychiatry. As an osteopathic physician, my foundation is based on principles of treating the whole person, incorporating mind, body, and spirit; acknowledging that the body is capable of self-regulation and self-healing; and realizing that structure and function are reciprocally related.
(216) 279-8394 View (216) 279-8394
Photo of Becca Granger, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Becca Granger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you a high functioning individual who has mastered the art of, "I'm fine. It's fine. Everything's fine?" Wondering how much longer you can keep up the pace and who will be impacted if you cannot? Looking for a confidential space where you don’t have to be “on?” A space to be real and address the stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, and insomnia that often come with great responsibility? Space to breathe, be heard, gain perspective, develop solutions, and leave with hope?
Are you a high functioning individual who has mastered the art of, "I'm fine. It's fine. Everything's fine?" Wondering how much longer you can keep up the pace and who will be impacted if you cannot? Looking for a confidential space where you don’t have to be “on?” A space to be real and address the stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, and insomnia that often come with great responsibility? Space to breathe, be heard, gain perspective, develop solutions, and leave with hope?
(419) 664-5378 View (419) 664-5378
Photo of Stephanie Pope, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephanie Pope
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
(440) 636-8777 View (440) 636-8777

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lindsey Fascione, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsey Fascione
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
At Insight Psychiatric Clinic, we value that everyone is different. We strive to veer from the cookie-cutter approach. Over the years, psychiatry has turned into a standardized approach, with lack of emphasis on people's different backgrounds, personalities, everyday lifestyles, and the many other qualities that make us all unique. At our clinic, we provide the necessary tools to increase overall health and wellness. We emphasize changes in diet and exercise, and encourage coordination with other healthcare providers, and offer medication. Our goal is for you to thrive and be the happiest, most successful version of yourself.
At Insight Psychiatric Clinic, we value that everyone is different. We strive to veer from the cookie-cutter approach. Over the years, psychiatry has turned into a standardized approach, with lack of emphasis on people's different backgrounds, personalities, everyday lifestyles, and the many other qualities that make us all unique. At our clinic, we provide the necessary tools to increase overall health and wellness. We emphasize changes in diet and exercise, and encourage coordination with other healthcare providers, and offer medication. Our goal is for you to thrive and be the happiest, most successful version of yourself.
(440) 797-3874 View (440) 797-3874
Photo of Judy Murua, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judy Murua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Judy Murua, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in mental health across the lifespan, my approach to mental health is rooted in a holistic, and patient-centered philosophy. I believe in integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that impact mental health. My primary focus is on treating individuals with a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
My name is Judy Murua, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in mental health across the lifespan, my approach to mental health is rooted in a holistic, and patient-centered philosophy. I believe in integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that impact mental health. My primary focus is on treating individuals with a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
(440) 586-4130 View (440) 586-4130
Photo of Chinyere Ihejirika - CIP Healthcare LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
CIP Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Heights, OH 44143
Accepting New Clients in OH, TX & AZ-. I am committed to helping those suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit disorder, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse. I am a practicing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio Arizona and Texas. I have been working as a nurse for 20 years and in mental health for 10 years—and have loved every moment! I became a nurse practitioner to deliver a higher level of patient care, realize a greater scope of practice and have increased job satisfaction. I wanted to participate in a follow- up and plan of care in a more meaningful way.
Accepting New Clients in OH, TX & AZ-. I am committed to helping those suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit disorder, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse. I am a practicing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio Arizona and Texas. I have been working as a nurse for 20 years and in mental health for 10 years—and have loved every moment! I became a nurse practitioner to deliver a higher level of patient care, realize a greater scope of practice and have increased job satisfaction. I wanted to participate in a follow- up and plan of care in a more meaningful way.
(832) 802-7364 View (832) 802-7364
Photo of Dr. Monique N Howard, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Monique N Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Dr. Monique Howard, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, owner of Peace of Mind Mental Health Practice has over three decades of medical experience. She is dual certified in Family Primary Care and Mental Health. She began her career as a trauma nurse at Huron Hospital in 2001. She honed her skills in high-pressure environments, setting the stage for her distinguished journey. She has a passion for patients who are suicidal and engage in self harm behaviors. All patients deserve the best treatment options available.
Dr. Monique Howard, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, owner of Peace of Mind Mental Health Practice has over three decades of medical experience. She is dual certified in Family Primary Care and Mental Health. She began her career as a trauma nurse at Huron Hospital in 2001. She honed her skills in high-pressure environments, setting the stage for her distinguished journey. She has a passion for patients who are suicidal and engage in self harm behaviors. All patients deserve the best treatment options available.
(216) 867-6963 View (216) 867-6963
Photo of Saissy Kendig, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Saissy Kendig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
Saissy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Akron in 2010 and worked as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department as well as a Psychiatric inpatient unit for several years. She continued her education and graduated with her Master’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Akron.
Saissy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Akron in 2010 and worked as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department as well as a Psychiatric inpatient unit for several years. She continued her education and graduated with her Master’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Akron.
(440) 762-6191 View (440) 762-6191
Photo of Jennifer Mlady, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Mlady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
North Olmsted, OH 44070
Jennifer Mlady provides compassionate and evidence-based care to clients of all ages. With a client-centered approach, Jennifer focuses on realistic treatment goals, fostering a therapeutic environment that addresses the whole person. Jennifer specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, offering expertise in medical conditions/health psychology and post-partum depression/anxiety. Her passion lies in supporting individuals facing reproductive challenges and trauma-related conditions like PTSD.
Jennifer Mlady provides compassionate and evidence-based care to clients of all ages. With a client-centered approach, Jennifer focuses on realistic treatment goals, fostering a therapeutic environment that addresses the whole person. Jennifer specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, offering expertise in medical conditions/health psychology and post-partum depression/anxiety. Her passion lies in supporting individuals facing reproductive challenges and trauma-related conditions like PTSD.
(440) 557-4896 View (440) 557-4896
Photo of Lydia Potoma, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lydia Potoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 4 years experience as an Inpatient Psych Hospitalist, Outpatient Provider and Nursing Home Consultant. Extensive experience in Inpatient/Outpatient Adult Psychiatry, Psychiatric Emergency Department, Long-Term Care, and Memory Care. Received Master's of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University.
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 4 years experience as an Inpatient Psych Hospitalist, Outpatient Provider and Nursing Home Consultant. Extensive experience in Inpatient/Outpatient Adult Psychiatry, Psychiatric Emergency Department, Long-Term Care, and Memory Care. Received Master's of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University.
(216) 290-2543 x102 View (216) 290-2543 x102
Photo of Dr. Leonard Marinis, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Leonard Marinis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rocky River, OH 44116
Hello and welcome to my Psychology Today profile. I grew up on the west side of Cleveland and initially worked as a engineer before returning to school to pursue my interest in medicine. I obtained my medical degree from CWRU's School of Medicine and completed a 4-year psychiatry residency at the University of California, Davis before returning home to Cleveland.
Hello and welcome to my Psychology Today profile. I grew up on the west side of Cleveland and initially worked as a engineer before returning to school to pursue my interest in medicine. I obtained my medical degree from CWRU's School of Medicine and completed a 4-year psychiatry residency at the University of California, Davis before returning home to Cleveland.
(216) 279-3700 View (216) 279-3700

See more therapy options for Chagrin Falls

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Chagrin Falls, OH

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Psychiatrists in Chagrin Falls, OH who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Trauma and PTSD
67% ADHD
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Chagrin Falls, OH see their clients

92% In Person and Online
8% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Chagrin Falls?

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.