Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 7 years of experience helping adult clients cope with the effects of anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 7 years of experience helping adult clients cope with the effects of anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
You shouldn’t have to guess why you feel "off."
Many of the women I work with arrive feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. They are often stuck in a cycle of questioning their own experiences—wondering if their struggles are "just stress" or something deeper involving hormone shifts and mental health. It can be incredibly isolating to seek answers only to feel dismissed or rushed through an appointment.
You shouldn’t have to guess why you feel "off."
Many of the women I work with arrive feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. They are often stuck in a cycle of questioning their own experiences—wondering if their struggles are "just stress" or something deeper involving hormone shifts and mental health. It can be incredibly isolating to seek answers only to feel dismissed or rushed through an appointment.
Dr. Amy Li completed her psychiatry residency at Case Western Reserve University Hospitals, where she served as chair of the residency outpatient medication management clinic. During residency, Dr. Li gained experience working with adults and children in outpatient and inpatient settings. She earned her medical degree from University of Toledo Medical University and undergraduate degree from University of Richmond. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Li’s specialty areas include the treatment of depression, anxiety, and ADHD disorders through both medication management and psychotherapy.
Dr. Amy Li completed her psychiatry residency at Case Western Reserve University Hospitals, where she served as chair of the residency outpatient medication management clinic. During residency, Dr. Li gained experience working with adults and children in outpatient and inpatient settings. She earned her medical degree from University of Toledo Medical University and undergraduate degree from University of Richmond. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Li’s specialty areas include the treatment of depression, anxiety, and ADHD disorders through both medication management and psychotherapy.
Hello, I am Fatimah, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who have been in practice over the last 8 years, with experience working in inpatient, outpatient and crisis settings. Do you suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, mood swings, eating disorders, insomnia, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders or substance abuse? I'm here because of you and I care about you. To book your appointment go to https:/centralbehavioralclinic.com/.
Hello, I am Fatimah, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who have been in practice over the last 8 years, with experience working in inpatient, outpatient and crisis settings. Do you suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, mood swings, eating disorders, insomnia, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders or substance abuse? I'm here because of you and I care about you. To book your appointment go to https:/centralbehavioralclinic.com/.
I am a dual-board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in outpatient mental health care, and I specialize in working with mood disorders. I genuinely enjoy getting to know my patients and believe that feeling comfortable, heard, and supported is a key part of healing.
I am a dual-board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in outpatient mental health care, and I specialize in working with mood disorders. I genuinely enjoy getting to know my patients and believe that feeling comfortable, heard, and supported is a key part of healing.
Dr. Joseph Fondriest completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / Summa Health where he served as chief resident and psychiatry representative for resident staff council. He received his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University, and his bachelor’s degree and computer science minor from Miami University. He specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. He places a heavy emphasis on listening closely to patients. He utilizes a team-based approach to mental healthcare, working alongside patients and their therapists. He treats adults of age 18-64.
Dr. Joseph Fondriest completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / Summa Health where he served as chief resident and psychiatry representative for resident staff council. He received his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University, and his bachelor’s degree and computer science minor from Miami University. He specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. He places a heavy emphasis on listening closely to patients. He utilizes a team-based approach to mental healthcare, working alongside patients and their therapists. He treats adults of age 18-64.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the State of Washington. With graduate degrees in social work, bioethics, and advanced psychiatric nursing, I have training in a variety of mental health settings and take an eclectic mental healthcare approach, emphasizing a biopsychosocial approach. I provide diagnostic evaluation and, where appropriate, treatment of symptoms related to mild to moderate low mood and depression, anxiety and stress, body image distress and eating disorders, as well as PTSD and trauma.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in the State of Washington. With graduate degrees in social work, bioethics, and advanced psychiatric nursing, I have training in a variety of mental health settings and take an eclectic mental healthcare approach, emphasizing a biopsychosocial approach. I provide diagnostic evaluation and, where appropriate, treatment of symptoms related to mild to moderate low mood and depression, anxiety and stress, body image distress and eating disorders, as well as PTSD and trauma.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
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.
My ideal clients are adults seeking compassionate, individualized mental health care in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I proudly work with individuals from all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community and those struggling with substance use, addiction, or navigating recovery.
Many clients come to our practice feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, mood instability, life transitions, relationship stress, or the emotional challenges that can accompany addiction and recovery. Some are seeking clarity regarding their diagnosis or medications, while others are looking for a safe space.
My ideal clients are adults seeking compassionate, individualized mental health care in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I proudly work with individuals from all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community and those struggling with substance use, addiction, or navigating recovery.
Many clients come to our practice feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, mood instability, life transitions, relationship stress, or the emotional challenges that can accompany addiction and recovery. Some are seeking clarity regarding their diagnosis or medications, while others are looking for a safe space.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I earned a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the distinguished Ohio State University. With experience in treating patients aged 18 and up, I'm adept at confronting numerous mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, and psychosis. My mission is to provide a professional, inclusive, and patient-centered method of behavioral healthcare, ensuring clients receive the most optimal care without fear of stigmatization or discrimination.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I earned a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the distinguished Ohio State University. With experience in treating patients aged 18 and up, I'm adept at confronting numerous mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, and psychosis. My mission is to provide a professional, inclusive, and patient-centered method of behavioral healthcare, ensuring clients receive the most optimal care without fear of stigmatization or discrimination.
At All Hope Behavioral Healthcare, we serve outpatient clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders who want to be seen as whole people, not diagnoses. Many arrive at a turning point, seeking collaborative, coordinated care under one roof. We start with thorough assessments, then our multidisciplinary team builds personalized, evidence-based treatment plans, keeping clients central to every decision. With ongoing follow-up, culturally sensitive support, and community connections, we guide people steadily toward real, sustained mental wellness. Our mission: helping every client find light after the darkness.
At All Hope Behavioral Healthcare, we serve outpatient clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders who want to be seen as whole people, not diagnoses. Many arrive at a turning point, seeking collaborative, coordinated care under one roof. We start with thorough assessments, then our multidisciplinary team builds personalized, evidence-based treatment plans, keeping clients central to every decision. With ongoing follow-up, culturally sensitive support, and community connections, we guide people steadily toward real, sustained mental wellness. Our mission: helping every client find light after the darkness.
Hi! I’m Julie and am certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My goal is to meet people where they are in life within a safe and nonjudgmental environment. I have found that I work well with patients of all ages and diagnoses through kindness, caring, and empathy. You matter and I adjust my communication style based on your unique needs. My aim is for each individual to be comfortable as we work together and focus on decreasing the stigma of mental health while providing a safe place for individuals to seek treatment that can include medication, processing difficulties and working on coping skills.
Hi! I’m Julie and am certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My goal is to meet people where they are in life within a safe and nonjudgmental environment. I have found that I work well with patients of all ages and diagnoses through kindness, caring, and empathy. You matter and I adjust my communication style based on your unique needs. My aim is for each individual to be comfortable as we work together and focus on decreasing the stigma of mental health while providing a safe place for individuals to seek treatment that can include medication, processing difficulties and working on coping skills.
Dr. Vashaun Omar Williams is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. With extensive clinical experience and leadership background, he is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Dr. Williams earned his medical degree from Morehouse School of Medicine and completed both his psychiatry residency and fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Palmetto Health Alliance in South Carolina.
Dr. Vashaun Omar Williams is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. With extensive clinical experience and leadership background, he is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Dr. Williams earned his medical degree from Morehouse School of Medicine and completed both his psychiatry residency and fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Palmetto Health Alliance in South Carolina.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner trained to diagnose and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders in adults. My areas of strength include the care of people with mood, anxiety, and/or trauma-related disorders. Clients who are interested in seeing me may have a goal of exploring traditional psychiatric medications for symptom management, interested in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) and/or receive brief psychotherapy. I am experienced in facilitating individual and group KAP sessions. I legally cannot prescribe stimulants, but can be consulted for treatment.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner trained to diagnose and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders in adults. My areas of strength include the care of people with mood, anxiety, and/or trauma-related disorders. Clients who are interested in seeing me may have a goal of exploring traditional psychiatric medications for symptom management, interested in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) and/or receive brief psychotherapy. I am experienced in facilitating individual and group KAP sessions. I legally cannot prescribe stimulants, but can be consulted for treatment.
Barrie Behavioral Health (BBH).
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CNP, Psych
Columbus, OH 43231
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
Hello and welcome! My name is Kate and I’ve been working in the mental health field as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner for 10 years. I obtained undergraduate degrees in both psychology and nursing at OSU and completed my Master’s degree in Psychiatric Nursing.
I am dedicated to providing exceptional care to my clients and their families. I specialize in helping clients manage their symptoms so they can thrive despite any diagnosis. Additionally, I accept and treat all levels of symptom severity and complexity.
Hello and welcome! My name is Kate and I’ve been working in the mental health field as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner for 10 years. I obtained undergraduate degrees in both psychology and nursing at OSU and completed my Master’s degree in Psychiatric Nursing.
I am dedicated to providing exceptional care to my clients and their families. I specialize in helping clients manage their symptoms so they can thrive despite any diagnosis. Additionally, I accept and treat all levels of symptom severity and complexity.
My ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive mental health care and support. Their issues may include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or other mental health conditions that significantly impact their daily life and overall well-being.
My ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive mental health care and support. Their issues may include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or other mental health conditions that significantly impact their daily life and overall well-being.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 8 years of experience managing and treating adults facing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I am driven to provide the best possible care to each person I work with. I earned my Master's degree in Nursing from The Ohio State University, and my background in Social Work gives me a unique perspective when making treatment recommendations.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 8 years of experience managing and treating adults facing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I am driven to provide the best possible care to each person I work with. I earned my Master's degree in Nursing from The Ohio State University, and my background in Social Work gives me a unique perspective when making treatment recommendations.
Feeling like it's time to explore medication? You're in the right place.
Hi, I'm Corey, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I help adults across Ohio, Kentucky, and Florida find clarity and confidence in their mental health treatment plan.
Whether you're exploring it for the first time, seeking a second opinion, or looking to optimize your current treatment, I'm here to help you navigate your options and find the right path forward.
My process is collaborative and straightforward. We'll start by exploring the nuances of your current experience, then delve into your personal history to understand the full context.
Feeling like it's time to explore medication? You're in the right place.
Hi, I'm Corey, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I help adults across Ohio, Kentucky, and Florida find clarity and confidence in their mental health treatment plan.
Whether you're exploring it for the first time, seeking a second opinion, or looking to optimize your current treatment, I'm here to help you navigate your options and find the right path forward.
My process is collaborative and straightforward. We'll start by exploring the nuances of your current experience, then delve into your personal history to understand the full context.
See more therapy options for Columbus
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH
200+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH who prioritize treating:
| 95% | Anxiety |
| 93% | Depression |
| 85% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 77% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 76% | Medication Management |
| 65% | ADHD |
| 64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 94% | Aetna |
| 87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 72% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH see their clients
| 51% | Online Only | |
| 49% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 75% | Female | |
| 25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Columbus?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


