Psychiatrists in Cleves, OH

Photo of Valerie Bath, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valerie Bath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
(812) 739-6493 View (812) 739-6493

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Laura Schreckengost, NP, Psychiatric Nurse
Laura Schreckengost
Psychiatric Nurse, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Laura is married with one daughter and three beautiful granddaughters, has a dog, cat, cows, goats, and chickens. Laura enjoys spending time with her family, friends, reading, cooking, and being in nature. Laura is a family nurse practitioner who holds a post master’s certificate in psychiatric nursing. She provides a comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate evaluation and treatment plan. Her scope of practice as a nurse practitioner across the lifespan in both family practice and psychiatric illness, advocating for health promotion.
Laura is married with one daughter and three beautiful granddaughters, has a dog, cat, cows, goats, and chickens. Laura enjoys spending time with her family, friends, reading, cooking, and being in nature. Laura is a family nurse practitioner who holds a post master’s certificate in psychiatric nursing. She provides a comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate evaluation and treatment plan. Her scope of practice as a nurse practitioner across the lifespan in both family practice and psychiatric illness, advocating for health promotion.
(380) 221-8466 View (380) 221-8466
Photo of Dr. Leonard Marinis, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Leonard Marinis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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
Photo of Yvette Dorsey-Benson, PMHNP, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yvette Dorsey-Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Do you feel trapped or stuck in emotional situations that leave you feeling like there’s no way out? “Suffering in silence” is not an option and it’s ok to ask for help. Let me help you equip yourself with the necessary tools to become your best version of self. Yvette Dorsey-Benson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals and families that struggle to manage stress, issues surrounding mental health and the day-to-day challenges that life can bring. “Understanding that we all experience dissatisfaction in life sometime or another is real. It’s ok not to be ok”.
Do you feel trapped or stuck in emotional situations that leave you feeling like there’s no way out? “Suffering in silence” is not an option and it’s ok to ask for help. Let me help you equip yourself with the necessary tools to become your best version of self. Yvette Dorsey-Benson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals and families that struggle to manage stress, issues surrounding mental health and the day-to-day challenges that life can bring. “Understanding that we all experience dissatisfaction in life sometime or another is real. It’s ok not to be ok”.
(937) 230-8235 View (937) 230-8235
Photo of Heather Cypher, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Cypher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner here, committed to providing genuine and inclusive care. My focus lies in serving the LGBTQ community and utilizing holistic approaches to prioritize mental well-being. With a knack for skillful medication management across various mental health conditions, I integrate evidence-based practices into prescribing decisions. Beyond that, I'm committed to creating a warm and supportive space, aiming to build therapeutic relationships that empower individuals on their unique journey to mental health and overall wellness.
Dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner here, committed to providing genuine and inclusive care. My focus lies in serving the LGBTQ community and utilizing holistic approaches to prioritize mental well-being. With a knack for skillful medication management across various mental health conditions, I integrate evidence-based practices into prescribing decisions. Beyond that, I'm committed to creating a warm and supportive space, aiming to build therapeutic relationships that empower individuals on their unique journey to mental health and overall wellness.
(937) 709-5833 View (937) 709-5833
Photo of Logan K Wink, MD, Psychiatrist
Logan K Wink
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am a wife, mother, artist, therapist and psychiatrist, and I would love to hear from you. With each patient, I take a highly personalized approach, focused on developing a relationship which informs the treatment plan. Most of my patients suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life stressors. I believe in carefully using medications to relieve symptoms, often coupled with insight oriented psychotherapy. Through this careful, thoughtful, and deep process, I find that patients experience the greatest chance of symptom relief and true life change.
Hello! I am a wife, mother, artist, therapist and psychiatrist, and I would love to hear from you. With each patient, I take a highly personalized approach, focused on developing a relationship which informs the treatment plan. Most of my patients suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life stressors. I believe in carefully using medications to relieve symptoms, often coupled with insight oriented psychotherapy. Through this careful, thoughtful, and deep process, I find that patients experience the greatest chance of symptom relief and true life change.
(513) 960-3943 View (513) 960-3943
Photo of Erin Miller, PMHNP, APRN , MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
(513) 647-2182 View (513) 647-2182
Photo of Jaclyn Lanham, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaclyn Lanham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Also, I am able to schedule out for follow-ups and see individuals as soon as 7-14 days (not a long wait at all). If urgent, please go to the nearest Emergency Room or call 911. If there are billing questions or concerns, reach out to Support during normal business hours, weekdays. If you need a follow-up, provide me with days of availability and blocks of time and we can coordinate an appointment. Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD. I also consider treating select ADHD
Also, I am able to schedule out for follow-ups and see individuals as soon as 7-14 days (not a long wait at all). If urgent, please go to the nearest Emergency Room or call 911. If there are billing questions or concerns, reach out to Support during normal business hours, weekdays. If you need a follow-up, provide me with days of availability and blocks of time and we can coordinate an appointment. Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD. I also consider treating select ADHD
(513) 676-4992 View (513) 676-4992
Photo of Danny E. Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danny E. Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
(567) 229-3039 View (567) 229-3039
Photo of Brittany Hooten, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Hooten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45231
I am a nurse practitioner certified in psychiatric mental health. I pride my work on providing compassionate client-centered care. With a background in mental health, I know that there is not a "one size fits all" approach when it comes to an effective individualized client treatment plan. My goal is to create a safe and trusting relationship where we can work together as a team to guide you to live the life you desire.
I am a nurse practitioner certified in psychiatric mental health. I pride my work on providing compassionate client-centered care. With a background in mental health, I know that there is not a "one size fits all" approach when it comes to an effective individualized client treatment plan. My goal is to create a safe and trusting relationship where we can work together as a team to guide you to live the life you desire.
(513) 654-1389 View (513) 654-1389
Photo of Corey Lozier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Corey Lozier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Corey, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, offering evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults with mental health disorders.
My name is Corey, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, offering evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults with mental health disorders.
View
Photo of Bernadette Sisk, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bernadette Sisk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified nurse practitioner focused in family psychiatric mental health. I have been practicing at a VA outpatient clinic for the last five plus years, treating adults with a wide spectrum of personal conditions and mental health diagnoses, including PTSD of various origins, nightmares, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, anger management, schizophrenia, dementia, substance abuse, other addictions, personality disorders, LGBTQ issues, insomnia, weight loss, pain, poor concentration, suicidal/homicidal ideations, self harm and TBI. For substance treatments or cash only clients, call 330-412-9105 to schedule directly
I am a board certified nurse practitioner focused in family psychiatric mental health. I have been practicing at a VA outpatient clinic for the last five plus years, treating adults with a wide spectrum of personal conditions and mental health diagnoses, including PTSD of various origins, nightmares, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, anger management, schizophrenia, dementia, substance abuse, other addictions, personality disorders, LGBTQ issues, insomnia, weight loss, pain, poor concentration, suicidal/homicidal ideations, self harm and TBI. For substance treatments or cash only clients, call 330-412-9105 to schedule directly
(330) 975-8366 View (330) 975-8366
Photo of Dr. Erica Shannon Stokes - Ingenious Health & Wellness, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ingenious Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting new patients. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of experience as an RN with education and training to treat patients with mental health and substance abuse issues across the lifespan. My education includes a Master of Science in Nursing, with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. I am dedicated and passionate in providing quality care, ensuring I provide care holistically. I can provide medication management and psychotherapy. I offer service in OHIO via Telehealth only.
Currently accepting new patients. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of experience as an RN with education and training to treat patients with mental health and substance abuse issues across the lifespan. My education includes a Master of Science in Nursing, with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. I am dedicated and passionate in providing quality care, ensuring I provide care holistically. I can provide medication management and psychotherapy. I offer service in OHIO via Telehealth only.
(937) 770-8375 View (937) 770-8375
Photo of Stephanie Tate, PhD, APRNCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Tate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRNCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202
I believe in meeting clients where they are and helping them get to where they want to be.
I believe in meeting clients where they are and helping them get to where they want to be.
(234) 516-3874 View (234) 516-3874
Photo of Dr. Tamera Kim Meyer, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tamera Kim Meyer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45219
I am here to assist with improving your mental health so that you can reach your full potential in life. Unlike other mental health practices, I am always accessible to my patients. I offer telehealth, in-person, and in-home services to accommodate patient needs. I practice general psychiatry for patients 13 years of age and older.
I am here to assist with improving your mental health so that you can reach your full potential in life. Unlike other mental health practices, I am always accessible to my patients. I offer telehealth, in-person, and in-home services to accommodate patient needs. I practice general psychiatry for patients 13 years of age and older.
(513) 902-3227 View (513) 902-3227
Photo of Alisa Nater Torres - Fervent Healing LLC, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fervent Healing LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you tired of healthcare providers rushing you through your visit? I strive to provide a safe space to receive quality health services, with a focus on personalized care that meets the unique needs of each patient. It is important to remember a person is comprised of their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Are you tired of healthcare providers rushing you through your visit? I strive to provide a safe space to receive quality health services, with a focus on personalized care that meets the unique needs of each patient. It is important to remember a person is comprised of their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.
(216) 284-9549 View (216) 284-9549
Photo of Katie Kowalak, PMHNPBC, LPCC-S, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie Kowalak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) as well as a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC-S). I have extensive training in providing trauma informed care. I am able to provide medication management services with therapy and feel this combination can be very effective.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) as well as a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC-S). I have extensive training in providing trauma informed care. I am able to provide medication management services with therapy and feel this combination can be very effective.
(513) 960-5174 View (513) 960-5174
Photo of Cassandra Hazelrig, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassandra Hazelrig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Welcoming New Patients to Encounter Wellness Mental Health Services! "And still, I rise.” —  Maya Angelou. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or maybe you just do not feel like yourself? We are here to help you. Hello, I am Cassandra Hazelrig, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and other conditions.
Welcoming New Patients to Encounter Wellness Mental Health Services! "And still, I rise.” —  Maya Angelou. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or maybe you just do not feel like yourself? We are here to help you. Hello, I am Cassandra Hazelrig, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and other conditions.
(513) 717-8149 View (513) 717-8149
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
View
Photo of Miranda Johnson, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Miranda Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting my clients’ mental health journeys. I earned my Bachelor of Science from Ohio University in 2017 and completed my Master of Science at Ohio State University in 2023. My experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at The James Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio, helped me develop a deep empathy and understanding for my patients.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting my clients’ mental health journeys. I earned my Bachelor of Science from Ohio University in 2017 and completed my Master of Science at Ohio State University in 2023. My experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at The James Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio, helped me develop a deep empathy and understanding for my patients.
(513) 613-2903 View (513) 613-2903

See more therapy options for Cleves

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cleves, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Cleves, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Medicaid
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Cleves, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cleves?

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.