Psychiatrists in Cuyahoga County, OH

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Photo of Holly Pierce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Pierce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
(440) 287-1624 View (440) 287-1624
Photo of Dr. Katherine Taljan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Katherine Taljan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake, OH 44145
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues during pregnancy and postpartum. I also have expertise in other aspects of women’s mental health, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and perimenopausal concerns.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues during pregnancy and postpartum. I also have expertise in other aspects of women’s mental health, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and perimenopausal concerns.
(440) 689-3858 View (440) 689-3858
Photo of Deebora Monroe - Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Deebora Monroe, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate from Herzing College, specializes in adult patient care at Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness (AMHAW) in partnership with Headway. She concentrates on treating a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, OCD, and similar issues. Dr. Monroe is dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based care to help individuals improve their mental health.
Dr. Deebora Monroe, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate from Herzing College, specializes in adult patient care at Arobeed Mental Health and Wellness (AMHAW) in partnership with Headway. She concentrates on treating a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, OCD, and similar issues. Dr. Monroe is dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based care to help individuals improve their mental health.
(440) 496-7382 View (440) 496-7382
Photo of Stephen McAllister, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephen McAllister
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Stephen McAllister, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide compassionate, individualized care, believing every person's mental wellness journey is unique. I offer a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and valued. My practice focuses on medication management and therapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I do not prescribe Schedule-II medications for ADHD, including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Vyvanse, Concerta, amphetamines, methamphetamine, or methylphenidate.
My name is Stephen McAllister, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide compassionate, individualized care, believing every person's mental wellness journey is unique. I offer a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and valued. My practice focuses on medication management and therapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I do not prescribe Schedule-II medications for ADHD, including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Vyvanse, Concerta, amphetamines, methamphetamine, or methylphenidate.
(440) 762-7712 View (440) 762-7712
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.
(234) 657-4657 View (234) 657-4657
Photo of Dr. Neal Swartz, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Neal Swartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake, OH 44145
Dr. Swartz is a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist, who is ready to empower you on your journey to mental wellness. With a rich educational background and extensive training, he brings a depth of knowledge and experience to Reach Behavioral Health. Working with a team of counselors and psychotherapists, he is confident he can help you reach your wellness goals.
Dr. Swartz is a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist, who is ready to empower you on your journey to mental wellness. With a rich educational background and extensive training, he brings a depth of knowledge and experience to Reach Behavioral Health. Working with a team of counselors and psychotherapists, he is confident he can help you reach your wellness goals.
(216) 999-5116 View (216) 999-5116
Photo of Deanna Berry, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deanna Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Deanna Berry is a nurse practitioner dually certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as adult-geriatric primary care. She has 20 years experience as nurse. She received her bachelor's degree, master's degree and post-master's certification in nursing from Ursuline College in Cleveland, OH and is certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
Deanna Berry is a nurse practitioner dually certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as adult-geriatric primary care. She has 20 years experience as nurse. She received her bachelor's degree, master's degree and post-master's certification in nursing from Ursuline College in Cleveland, OH and is certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
(440) 762-6239 View (440) 762-6239
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Jess Levy, MD, Psychiatrist
Jess Levy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Good psychiatric care happens during visits as well as between visits. And yet when it comes to psychiatry, 15-minute med checks once every few months is the norm. It's no wonder why so many patients are overwhelmed, frustrated, and skeptical about psychiatric care! (Don't even get me started If you have multiple conditions like ADHD and anxiety!) What if instead you worked with a psychiatrist who is open-minded, experienced, and will take the take the time to get to know you (or your child)?
Good psychiatric care happens during visits as well as between visits. And yet when it comes to psychiatry, 15-minute med checks once every few months is the norm. It's no wonder why so many patients are overwhelmed, frustrated, and skeptical about psychiatric care! (Don't even get me started If you have multiple conditions like ADHD and anxiety!) What if instead you worked with a psychiatrist who is open-minded, experienced, and will take the take the time to get to know you (or your child)?
(216) 616-5766 View (216) 616-5766
Photo of Louis Zamudio Jr., MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Louis Zamudio Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Are anxiety, stress, depression, anger or even mood swings interrupting you realizing your best self? Is talk therapy just not enough? If you experience sleep difficulties, disturbing traumatic memories, relentless depression or panic attacks, you may need some additional support. Medication is one option, however, sometimes people may see this as the only option. Many people are better served when treated by a specialist who is trained to carefully consider a person’s unique personality, life stressors and even family history before issuing a prescription. I also offer genetic testing to help inform best treatment options.
Are anxiety, stress, depression, anger or even mood swings interrupting you realizing your best self? Is talk therapy just not enough? If you experience sleep difficulties, disturbing traumatic memories, relentless depression or panic attacks, you may need some additional support. Medication is one option, however, sometimes people may see this as the only option. Many people are better served when treated by a specialist who is trained to carefully consider a person’s unique personality, life stressors and even family history before issuing a prescription. I also offer genetic testing to help inform best treatment options.
(216) 930-6350 View (216) 930-6350
Photo of Tina Steen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tina Steen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Tina Steen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. Tina is passionate about providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults throughout the lifespan. She possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients, families, and caregivers. Following evidence-based guidelines, Tina provides care that is informed by years of clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Tina's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, counselor, and scientist.
Tina Steen is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. Tina is passionate about providing compassionate, holistic, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults throughout the lifespan. She possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by a natural ability to build rapport with patients, families, and caregivers. Following evidence-based guidelines, Tina provides care that is informed by years of clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Tina's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, counselor, and scientist.
(440) 745-7155 View (440) 745-7155
Photo of Steve Pessefall, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steve Pessefall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141
Steve is Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (CNP) with a focus on providing treatment for a broad-spectrum of mental health disorders. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing Degree from The University of Akron and is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has experience in inpatient, outpatient, as well as community mental health settings as a Nurse Practitioner and over 25 years of experience as a Registered Nurse working in psychiatric / behavioral health hospitals. Steve has also earned his credential for Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) from The University of Maryland.
Steve is Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (CNP) with a focus on providing treatment for a broad-spectrum of mental health disorders. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing Degree from The University of Akron and is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has experience in inpatient, outpatient, as well as community mental health settings as a Nurse Practitioner and over 25 years of experience as a Registered Nurse working in psychiatric / behavioral health hospitals. Steve has also earned his credential for Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) from The University of Maryland.
(440) 530-6462 View (440) 530-6462
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD, MD, Psychiatrist
TelaMD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44110
TelaMD offers Mental Health Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a provider at your convenience. We have a waiting period of only a few days and are currently accepting patients. Please call us at (216) 238-3555 if you would like to set up an appointment.
TelaMD offers Mental Health Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a provider at your convenience. We have a waiting period of only a few days and are currently accepting patients. Please call us at (216) 238-3555 if you would like to set up an appointment.
(216) 238-3555 View (216) 238-3555
Photo of Amanda Bowsman, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Bowsman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome ! My name is Amanda and I have 17 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including psychiatry, medical-surgical nursing, oncology, and critical care. I obtained my MSN in Psychiatry from Indiana Wesleyan University and my BSN from Ohio University. I have worked in community mental health and inpatient psychiatric hospitals.
Welcome ! My name is Amanda and I have 17 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including psychiatry, medical-surgical nursing, oncology, and critical care. I obtained my MSN in Psychiatry from Indiana Wesleyan University and my BSN from Ohio University. I have worked in community mental health and inpatient psychiatric hospitals.
(440) 659-2333 View (440) 659-2333
Photo of Aleksandr I Zverinskiy - Brave Health, MD, FNP-C, PhD, LMHC, Psychiatrist
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, FNP-C, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
We are a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive through high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
(440) 762-6770 View (440) 762-6770
Photo of Neeti Wyckoff, DO, Psychiatrist
Neeti Wyckoff
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Dr. Wyckoff is board certified and a fellow of the American Board of Pediatrics. She is a graduate of the University of Rochester and the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine and served her residency at The Cleveland Clinic. She also served as staff pediatrician at both Akron City Hospital and Akron General Medical Center and was attending pediatrician at Akron Children's Hospital. Dr. Wyckoff completed her portal fellowship in child and adult psychiatry at University Hospitals, developing a Depression Toolkit for use at Rainbow Babies' and Children's Hospital.
Dr. Wyckoff is board certified and a fellow of the American Board of Pediatrics. She is a graduate of the University of Rochester and the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine and served her residency at The Cleveland Clinic. She also served as staff pediatrician at both Akron City Hospital and Akron General Medical Center and was attending pediatrician at Akron Children's Hospital. Dr. Wyckoff completed her portal fellowship in child and adult psychiatry at University Hospitals, developing a Depression Toolkit for use at Rainbow Babies' and Children's Hospital.
(216) 714-8135 View (216) 714-8135
Photo of Elizabeth Shelley, MD, Psychiatrist
Elizabeth Shelley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westlake, OH 44145
My name is Dr. Elizabeth Shelley, I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I am dedicated to providing expert and compassionate medication management and therapy to individuals starting from the age of 8 through adulthood. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish. For more information, visit my website at elizabethshelleymd.com.
My name is Dr. Elizabeth Shelley, I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I am dedicated to providing expert and compassionate medication management and therapy to individuals starting from the age of 8 through adulthood. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish. For more information, visit my website at elizabethshelleymd.com.
(440) 970-0921 View (440) 970-0921
Photo of Dr. Anthony Smartnick - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(440) 276-3644 View (440) 276-3644
Photo of Laura Kless, MSN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Kless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Rocky River, OH 44116
Laura Kless, APRN, PMHCNS, is dedicated to providing compassionate care and clinical expertise to children and adolescents facing a range of mental health challenges. With a focus on addressing depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, reactive attachment issues, disruptive behavior, and various psychiatric disorders, Laura offers psychiatric evaluations and treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Laura collaborates closely with patients and their families, offering comprehensive treatment recommendations and medication management when appropriate.
Laura Kless, APRN, PMHCNS, is dedicated to providing compassionate care and clinical expertise to children and adolescents facing a range of mental health challenges. With a focus on addressing depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, reactive attachment issues, disruptive behavior, and various psychiatric disorders, Laura offers psychiatric evaluations and treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Laura collaborates closely with patients and their families, offering comprehensive treatment recommendations and medication management when appropriate.
(440) 771-1824 View (440) 771-1824
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cuyahoga County, OH

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Cuyahoga County, OH who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
94% Anxiety
82% Bipolar Disorder
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% ADHD
71% Medication Management
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Aetna
96% Cigna and Evernorth
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Cuyahoga County, OH see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cuyahoga County?

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.