Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH

Photo of Ashley Collins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Ashley Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
I provide holistic care for children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My approach goes beyond just medication and focuses on proper nutrition, lifestyle changes, and instilling good coping skills in children, to equip them with the tools to face life’s challenges with resilience and strength. I have extensive experience treating children struggling with trauma and co-occurring conditions, and I also specialize in supporting military families navigating the unique stresses, uncertainties, and challenges that come with military life and deployment.
I provide holistic care for children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My approach goes beyond just medication and focuses on proper nutrition, lifestyle changes, and instilling good coping skills in children, to equip them with the tools to face life’s challenges with resilience and strength. I have extensive experience treating children struggling with trauma and co-occurring conditions, and I also specialize in supporting military families navigating the unique stresses, uncertainties, and challenges that come with military life and deployment.
(614) 714-5981 View (614) 714-5981
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Columbus, OH 43201
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.
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Photo of Julia Lobodenko-Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julia Lobodenko-Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m Julia, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 15+ years of experience in healthcare and social work across the U.S. and Europe. I work with adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, and those hard-to-name feelings that make daily life harder than it should be. I offer both medication management and supportive therapy, and I believe the best outcomes happen when care is collaborative, culturally informed, and deeply human.
I’m Julia, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 15+ years of experience in healthcare and social work across the U.S. and Europe. I work with adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, trauma, and those hard-to-name feelings that make daily life harder than it should be. I offer both medication management and supportive therapy, and I believe the best outcomes happen when care is collaborative, culturally informed, and deeply human.
(614) 368-8049 View (614) 368-8049
Photo of Constance Hartgrove, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Constance Hartgrove
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Hello and welcome—I'm so glad you're here. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with over eight years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of primary and mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, OCD, and more. I’ve had the privilege of working with clients of all ages and am currently welcoming new adolescent and adult clients, ages 13 and up. I believe healing happens when we care for the heart, soul, and mind—and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward wholeness with compassion, understanding, and support.
Hello and welcome—I'm so glad you're here. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner with over eight years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of primary and mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, OCD, and more. I’ve had the privilege of working with clients of all ages and am currently welcoming new adolescent and adult clients, ages 13 and up. I believe healing happens when we care for the heart, soul, and mind—and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward wholeness with compassion, understanding, and support.
(614) 389-9810 View (614) 389-9810
Photo of Ken Nwogu - Integrative Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Integrative Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43205
I specialize in holistic care, emphasizing integrative mental wellness, addressing functional issues including anxiety, depressive, and mood disorders as well as improving overall health, and lifestyle. I can recommend, prescribe, and monitor medications and psychotherapy. I am able to meet with clients through telemedicine/telepsychiatry or in person.
I specialize in holistic care, emphasizing integrative mental wellness, addressing functional issues including anxiety, depressive, and mood disorders as well as improving overall health, and lifestyle. I can recommend, prescribe, and monitor medications and psychotherapy. I am able to meet with clients through telemedicine/telepsychiatry or in person.
(614) 368-7150 View (614) 368-7150
Photo of Holly Pierce, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Holly Pierce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Holly Pierce PMHNP-BC. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes a holistic, client-centered model that integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a compassionate, empathetic approach. I focus on supporting individuals in their mental health journey, by tailoring medication interventions to each person’s unique needs, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.
Holly Pierce PMHNP-BC. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes a holistic, client-centered model that integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a compassionate, empathetic approach. I focus on supporting individuals in their mental health journey, by tailoring medication interventions to each person’s unique needs, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.
(740) 631-6478 View (740) 631-6478
Photo of Dauntrica Wallstrum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Dauntrica Wallstrum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43213
Dauntrica Wallstrum is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree from The Ohio State University and dual bachelor's degrees from Ashland University. She has previous history working with mental health in the community setting and working with varying psychiatric diagnoses. She sees children, ages 5 and up, adolescents, and adults. Her focus is on the individual as a whole to help work towards achieving wellness.
Dauntrica Wallstrum is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree from The Ohio State University and dual bachelor's degrees from Ashland University. She has previous history working with mental health in the community setting and working with varying psychiatric diagnoses. She sees children, ages 5 and up, adolescents, and adults. Her focus is on the individual as a whole to help work towards achieving wellness.
(380) 208-1844 View (380) 208-1844
Photo of Gloria Adjei, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gloria Adjei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I treat clients, across the lifespan, suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, other mood and behavioral challenges as well as substance use disorders. I treat clients across the lifespan, from school-age children to geriatric clients. My specialty includes anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, as well as substance use disorders.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I treat clients, across the lifespan, suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, other mood and behavioral challenges as well as substance use disorders. I treat clients across the lifespan, from school-age children to geriatric clients. My specialty includes anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, as well as substance use disorders.
(440) 581-8373 View (440) 581-8373
Photo of Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu - Cornerstone Integrated Healthcare of Ohio , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN
Cornerstone Integrated Healthcare of Ohio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN
Columbus, OH 43213
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience in mental health, addiction, and family services to diversified patient population. My mission is the desensitization of the stigma to mental health and substance abuse disorder in providing individualized holistic care. Meeting patients where they are and in upholding their dignity.
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience in mental health, addiction, and family services to diversified patient population. My mission is the desensitization of the stigma to mental health and substance abuse disorder in providing individualized holistic care. Meeting patients where they are and in upholding their dignity.
(614) 782-8779 View (614) 782-8779
Photo of Mark Erik Blair - Optimum TMS, Psychiatrist, MD
Optimum TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Columbus, OH 43215
Dr. Blair and Optimum TMS, utilize the most technologically advanced treatment for those individuals suffering from treatment resistant depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation, or "TMS." If you or someone you know suffers from depression and have tried various medications without success, TMS could be a treatment option you should explore. TMS has a response rate of 75% and a full remission rate of around 30%.
Dr. Blair and Optimum TMS, utilize the most technologically advanced treatment for those individuals suffering from treatment resistant depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation, or "TMS." If you or someone you know suffers from depression and have tried various medications without success, TMS could be a treatment option you should explore. TMS has a response rate of 75% and a full remission rate of around 30%.
(380) 207-0958 View (380) 207-0958
Photo of Fariba Mazdeh - turning point psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
turning point psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
A mental health provider/counselor helps patients overcome psychological challenges, often by helping them to develop the insight about their illness, guiding and supporting them in learning to change their negative behaviors and thought patterns, and providing them with the best pharmacological approach in order to treat their mental illness. It’s a deeply rewarding line of work that I find, highly fulfilling,فارسی زبان ها را حتما دعوت می کنم که تماس بگیرند برای روان درمانی در زمینه مشاورت ویا دارو درمانی. من ایرانی هستم وخیلی مایل به درمان هم کشوری هایم هستم
A mental health provider/counselor helps patients overcome psychological challenges, often by helping them to develop the insight about their illness, guiding and supporting them in learning to change their negative behaviors and thought patterns, and providing them with the best pharmacological approach in order to treat their mental illness. It’s a deeply rewarding line of work that I find, highly fulfilling,فارسی زبان ها را حتما دعوت می کنم که تماس بگیرند برای روان درمانی در زمینه مشاورت ویا دارو درمانی. من ایرانی هستم وخیلی مایل به درمان هم کشوری هایم هستم
(346) 239-8416 View (346) 239-8416
Photo of Nina Roslovic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Nina Roslovic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Columbus, OH 43212
Do you feel like you've got one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake? Know where you want to go, but can't seem to get there? As a board-certified nurse practitioner, I provide therapy and medication for challenges including anxiety, low energy, depression, trouble sleeping, and grief. Office hours include evenings and weekends, and I offer a free 20-minute session if you'd like to see if we're a good fit. Check out my website: www.cooperativechange.com for more information.
Do you feel like you've got one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake? Know where you want to go, but can't seem to get there? As a board-certified nurse practitioner, I provide therapy and medication for challenges including anxiety, low energy, depression, trouble sleeping, and grief. Office hours include evenings and weekends, and I offer a free 20-minute session if you'd like to see if we're a good fit. Check out my website: www.cooperativechange.com for more information.
(614) 654-4954 View (614) 654-4954
Photo of Temitayo Onamusi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Temitayo Onamusi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! I am an experienced dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP/PMHNP) with a strong focus on psychiatric mental health. With a track record of providing patient empowerment, short counseling, patient education, and medication management, I have made a difference in the lives of countless individuals. Through my personalized treatment plans and commitment to individual needs, I have been recognized for my unique approach to care. When not serving patients, I find solace in nature, meditation, and the company of loved ones.
Hello! I am an experienced dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP/PMHNP) with a strong focus on psychiatric mental health. With a track record of providing patient empowerment, short counseling, patient education, and medication management, I have made a difference in the lives of countless individuals. Through my personalized treatment plans and commitment to individual needs, I have been recognized for my unique approach to care. When not serving patients, I find solace in nature, meditation, and the company of loved ones.
(740) 829-7284 View (740) 829-7284
Photo of Tiffani Gallimore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Tiffani Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
(614) 918-4500 View (614) 918-4500
Photo of Laurie Saurborn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MS
Laurie Saurborn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MS
Columbus, OH 43220
The world doesn't stop spinning during times of change or crisis. If you are in search of a provider who excels at creating collaborative treatment plans to help you reach your immediate and long term goals, I can help.
The world doesn't stop spinning during times of change or crisis. If you are in search of a provider who excels at creating collaborative treatment plans to help you reach your immediate and long term goals, I can help.
(740) 202-4585 View (740) 202-4585
Photo of Chris Sobecki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Chris Sobecki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Columbus, OH 43219
Chris Sobecki is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been working in the behavioral and mental health field since 2019. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University and earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. He is passionate about providing comprehensive behavioral and mental health services to the pediatric, adolescent and young adult populations. He engages with patients and their families to assess and develop strategies to overcome barriers.
Chris Sobecki is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been working in the behavioral and mental health field since 2019. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University and earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. He is passionate about providing comprehensive behavioral and mental health services to the pediatric, adolescent and young adult populations. He engages with patients and their families to assess and develop strategies to overcome barriers.
(740) 715-3780 View (740) 715-3780
Photo of Stephen Jon Bittner, Psychiatrist, MD
Stephen Jon Bittner
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Bittner is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience. He believes that it is often more effective if the same therapist provides both medication and therapy as it allows for a more comprehensive, individualized and conservative treatment approach. His services include, but are not limited to diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety and panic, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. He has a special interest and expertise in treating individuals and families coping with chronic and life-threatening illness as well as grief and loss.
Dr. Bittner is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience. He believes that it is often more effective if the same therapist provides both medication and therapy as it allows for a more comprehensive, individualized and conservative treatment approach. His services include, but are not limited to diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety and panic, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. He has a special interest and expertise in treating individuals and families coping with chronic and life-threatening illness as well as grief and loss.
(614) 407-8641 View (614) 407-8641
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43220
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.
(380) 666-4640 View (380) 666-4640
Photo of Andrea Swails, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Andrea Swails
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dr. Andrea Swails and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, Ohio. I work with many patients via telehealth. My population is sixteen years old to adults and the elderly. I specialize in major depressive d/o, general anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar d/o using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my patients make progress, set goals, and feel better.
Hello, my name is Dr. Andrea Swails and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, Ohio. I work with many patients via telehealth. My population is sixteen years old to adults and the elderly. I specialize in major depressive d/o, general anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar d/o using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my patients make progress, set goals, and feel better.
(740) 675-6414 View (740) 675-6414
Summer, Psyched, PsychedCbus.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN BS, MSW BA, LISWd, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Hi, I am Summer, your new psychiatric mental health provider, therapist, counselor, and coach. Congratulations, you are here! Get ready to get PSYCHED, because you have navigated yourself to the right place. You want to re-ignite that passion. Whether you are an executive professional, a medical practitioner, SAHM, career academic, in between life phases, or … As person who has realized life is not what it can be anymore, let’s work together and get that drive back. Know, right now you are doing the best you can and “go you” for recognizing you have the potential to do it more efficiently. Work smarter, not harder as they say.
Hi, I am Summer, your new psychiatric mental health provider, therapist, counselor, and coach. Congratulations, you are here! Get ready to get PSYCHED, because you have navigated yourself to the right place. You want to re-ignite that passion. Whether you are an executive professional, a medical practitioner, SAHM, career academic, in between life phases, or … As person who has realized life is not what it can be anymore, let’s work together and get that drive back. Know, right now you are doing the best you can and “go you” for recognizing you have the potential to do it more efficiently. Work smarter, not harder as they say.
(513) 848-6371 View (513) 848-6371

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:

97% Anxiety
94% Depression
85% Bipolar Disorder
73% Trauma and PTSD
65% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% 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.

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.