Psychiatrists in Englewood, OH

Photo of Rhea J Jeffers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Rhea J Jeffers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
3 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
I am here to help any patient seeking help with their emotions, stress, mood or any mental health problems they may be experiencing. My goal is to help anyone in need with mental health issues to live the best life possible. I encourage therapy along with medication management to improve overall mental health outcomes. I do not prescribe stimulants but I do use non-stimulants to treat ADHD, and ADD. I accept all insurances, Medicaid and Medicare.
I am here to help any patient seeking help with their emotions, stress, mood or any mental health problems they may be experiencing. My goal is to help anyone in need with mental health issues to live the best life possible. I encourage therapy along with medication management to improve overall mental health outcomes. I do not prescribe stimulants but I do use non-stimulants to treat ADHD, and ADD. I accept all insurances, Medicaid and Medicare.
(937) 858-5233 View (937) 858-5233
Photo of Emily Toal - BE Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
BE Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
I am a Primary-Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I treat all psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My practice has a specialized focus on mothers experiencing antepartum and postpartum mood disorders or bonding issues with their infants. Additionally, I have a passion to provide resources and mental health treatment to children and families who have indivduals with developmental delays. This includes assessment, diagnoses, treatment, appropriate referrals, and case management for the family. However, I treat all psychiatric disorders and people of all ages!
I am a Primary-Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I treat all psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My practice has a specialized focus on mothers experiencing antepartum and postpartum mood disorders or bonding issues with their infants. Additionally, I have a passion to provide resources and mental health treatment to children and families who have indivduals with developmental delays. This includes assessment, diagnoses, treatment, appropriate referrals, and case management for the family. However, I treat all psychiatric disorders and people of all ages!
(937) 518-6149 View (937) 518-6149
Photo of Alendre McGhee - Ingenious Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Ingenious Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
(937) 719-5741 View (937) 719-5741
Photo of Lidia Maria Berrone - Tassielli Mental Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APR, BC-ACNP, BCPMHNP
Tassielli Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APR, BC-ACNP, BCPMHNP
Serves Area
Hello, I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I treat adults struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD to name of few. My goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals struggling with managing their life. My philosophy is that good mental health is key to the over all well-being of an individual.
Hello, I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I treat adults struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD to name of few. My goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals struggling with managing their life. My philosophy is that good mental health is key to the over all well-being of an individual.
(937) 884-1936 View (937) 884-1936

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Mark Roberts - Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS and IV Therapy , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS and IV Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45432
I am a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of depression and anxiety. My approach is holistic and tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs. Depression and PTSD are prevalent among veterans, often requiring innovative treatment approaches. I offer cutting-edge treatments such as Spravato (esketamine) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), both of which have proven effective for patients who have not found relief from traditional treatments.
I am a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of depression and anxiety. My approach is holistic and tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs. Depression and PTSD are prevalent among veterans, often requiring innovative treatment approaches. I offer cutting-edge treatments such as Spravato (esketamine) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), both of which have proven effective for patients who have not found relief from traditional treatments.
(937) 719-5856 View (937) 719-5856
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Online Only
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych eval and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting many major insurances.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych eval and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting many major insurances.
(330) 222-8501 View (330) 222-8501
Photo of Marie Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
If you're feeling stuck in depression, anxiety, or hopelessness, you're not alone—and help is available. I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I provide comprehensive mental health evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults aged 20 and older. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I understand that mental health looks different for everyone; my approach is collaborative and personalized, helping you clarify your goals and work toward meaningful, lasting change.
If you're feeling stuck in depression, anxiety, or hopelessness, you're not alone—and help is available. I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I provide comprehensive mental health evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults aged 20 and older. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I understand that mental health looks different for everyone; my approach is collaborative and personalized, helping you clarify your goals and work toward meaningful, lasting change.
(513) 875-7722 View (513) 875-7722
Photo of Erica Nichole Cook - Center for Personal Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Center for Personal Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Erica Cook, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to build a trusting relationship where you feel safe to share, grow, and heal. I’m here to listen without judgment, guide with empathy, and empower you to take control of your wellness journey — one step at a time.
Hello! My name is Erica Cook, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to build a trusting relationship where you feel safe to share, grow, and heal. I’m here to listen without judgment, guide with empathy, and empower you to take control of your wellness journey — one step at a time.
(419) 871-3527 View (419) 871-3527
Photo of Enestine Tasong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Enestine Tasong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP), psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and certified DOT provider. She has over 20 years of excellent, high-quality healthcare experience. She has worked in multiple settings, including long-term care, home care, primary care, psychiatric care clinics, insurance, urgent care, hospice, and an inpatient behavioral hospital.
Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP), psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and certified DOT provider. She has over 20 years of excellent, high-quality healthcare experience. She has worked in multiple settings, including long-term care, home care, primary care, psychiatric care clinics, insurance, urgent care, hospice, and an inpatient behavioral hospital.
(216) 460-3298 View (216) 460-3298
Photo of Cassandra Hazelrig - Mental Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP-B
Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Hi, my name is Cassandra Hazelrig, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of healthcare experience. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, dual diagnosis, and other conditions. The first step toward healing is an accurate diagnosis, followed by a combination of effective medication management, lifestyle changes, and therapy techniques. We will work together to garner your inner strengths, learn new coping skills, and leap over stumbling blocks that prevent you from living your best life.
Hi, my name is Cassandra Hazelrig, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of healthcare experience. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, dual diagnosis, and other conditions. The first step toward healing is an accurate diagnosis, followed by a combination of effective medication management, lifestyle changes, and therapy techniques. We will work together to garner your inner strengths, learn new coping skills, and leap over stumbling blocks that prevent you from living your best life.
(513) 953-4359 View (513) 953-4359
Photo of Christina Alcorn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Christina Alcorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
Most people struggle with mental illness in some time in their lives. Situations may include the death of a loved one, anxiety related to life events, postpartum depression, attention difficulties at all ages, or a history of a chemical imbalance causing diseases such as chronic depression or anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Many people need coping skills, support and reassurance, or medical intervention to maximize their level of functioning.
Most people struggle with mental illness in some time in their lives. Situations may include the death of a loved one, anxiety related to life events, postpartum depression, attention difficulties at all ages, or a history of a chemical imbalance causing diseases such as chronic depression or anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Many people need coping skills, support and reassurance, or medical intervention to maximize their level of functioning.
(937) 807-3781 View (937) 807-3781
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, Psychiatrist, MD
TelaMD Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
(immediate openings within one week) TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers.
(immediate openings within one week) TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers.
(614) 502-3491 View (614) 502-3491
Photo of Ashley Gould, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-C, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Ashley Gould
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-C, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Beavercreek, OH 45432
Ashley holds a dual board certification as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in office as well as through virtual visits. She works to form partnerships with her patients and is passionate about helping individuals and families thrive.
Ashley holds a dual board certification as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in office as well as through virtual visits. She works to form partnerships with her patients and is passionate about helping individuals and families thrive.
(937) 709-4041 View (937) 709-4041
Photo of Amrita Roderick, Physician Assistant, MSN
Amrita Roderick
Physician Assistant, MSN
Online Only
My journey into healthcare began early, inspired by my father’s work in pharmacy and shaped by the compassion I witnessed during my grandmother’s illness. Those experiences fueled my decision to become a physician associate and dedicate my career to building genuine connections with patients. I believe trust and understanding are the foundation of healing, and I strive to create a safe space where people feel valued and supported. Whether you are navigating stress, facing uncertainty, or simply seeking a provider who listens, my goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and clear guidance.
My journey into healthcare began early, inspired by my father’s work in pharmacy and shaped by the compassion I witnessed during my grandmother’s illness. Those experiences fueled my decision to become a physician associate and dedicate my career to building genuine connections with patients. I believe trust and understanding are the foundation of healing, and I strive to create a safe space where people feel valued and supported. Whether you are navigating stress, facing uncertainty, or simply seeking a provider who listens, my goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and clear guidance.
(513) 960-4724 View (513) 960-4724
Dr. Adrienne McCray
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.
Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.
(513) 654-6673 View (513) 654-6673
Photo of Nichole McCoy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Nichole McCoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello there, I'm Nikki. Are you struggling with feelings of self-doubt and confusion, or even deal with the trap of negative self-talk. Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in a thousand directions? Do you find it hard to fit in, struggle with relationships, balance life, work and your health? No motivation, feelings lonely, and struggling to get out of bed? Do you struggle sleeping too much or barely at all with a constant energy? You deserve a safe space to talk, heal, and get to the root cause of what is weighing you down.
Hello there, I'm Nikki. Are you struggling with feelings of self-doubt and confusion, or even deal with the trap of negative self-talk. Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in a thousand directions? Do you find it hard to fit in, struggle with relationships, balance life, work and your health? No motivation, feelings lonely, and struggling to get out of bed? Do you struggle sleeping too much or barely at all with a constant energy? You deserve a safe space to talk, heal, and get to the root cause of what is weighing you down.
(937) 857-5558 View (937) 857-5558
Photo of Ashley McKendall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Ashley McKendall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Online Only
As a veteran, a nurse practitioner, and a mom, I bring a deeply human approach to care. I’ve seen firsthand how physical and emotional pain are often connected, and I strive to uncover what’s really driving your symptoms, not just cover them up. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel truly heard. Whether you’re navigating stress, trauma, or complex life transitions, I’m here to walk with you toward clarity and relief.
As a veteran, a nurse practitioner, and a mom, I bring a deeply human approach to care. I’ve seen firsthand how physical and emotional pain are often connected, and I strive to uncover what’s really driving your symptoms, not just cover them up. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel truly heard. Whether you’re navigating stress, trauma, or complex life transitions, I’m here to walk with you toward clarity and relief.
(513) 951-7968 View (513) 951-7968
Photo of Katherine G Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Katherine G Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Beavercreek, OH 45432
I graduated with a master's degree from NKU and discovered my passion for mental healthcare while working in an emergency level I trauma center. Providing care to patients experiencing mental health crises in a psychiatric emergency department fueled my commitment to advocacy in this field. My hobbies include reading, crocheting, baking, and spending time with family and friends. I am dedicated to addressing the unique needs of individuals with empathy, ensuring they receive the support necessary to reach their goals and support their overall well-being. My favorite quote, "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t".
I graduated with a master's degree from NKU and discovered my passion for mental healthcare while working in an emergency level I trauma center. Providing care to patients experiencing mental health crises in a psychiatric emergency department fueled my commitment to advocacy in this field. My hobbies include reading, crocheting, baking, and spending time with family and friends. I am dedicated to addressing the unique needs of individuals with empathy, ensuring they receive the support necessary to reach their goals and support their overall well-being. My favorite quote, "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t".
(937) 646-1717 View (937) 646-1717
Photo of Thandiwe Jeme Ballard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN CNP, APRN, PMHNP
Thandiwe Jeme Ballard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN CNP, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45409
Thandiwe Ballard MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP-BC is a Mental Health Provider with over 15 years of experience as a Healthcare Professional with experience ranging from Long Term Care, hospital, Case Management and Outpatient Care. Thandiwe is dedicated to helping individuals overcome emotional and/or mental health challenges and live a more balanced, fulfilling life. Thandiwe’s education started with becoming an STNA in 2007 then LPN 2011 and advanced into her Associates of Science in Nursing degree from Clark State Community College, Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Western Governors University and Master of Science in Nursing.
Thandiwe Ballard MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP-BC is a Mental Health Provider with over 15 years of experience as a Healthcare Professional with experience ranging from Long Term Care, hospital, Case Management and Outpatient Care. Thandiwe is dedicated to helping individuals overcome emotional and/or mental health challenges and live a more balanced, fulfilling life. Thandiwe’s education started with becoming an STNA in 2007 then LPN 2011 and advanced into her Associates of Science in Nursing degree from Clark State Community College, Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Western Governors University and Master of Science in Nursing.
(937) 646-7727 View (937) 646-7727
Photo of Simone Collier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Simone Collier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
One of the aspects of mental health care I am most passionate about is working underserved populations. I have seen how systemic barriers and cultural differences can impact an individual's mental health journey, and I strive to be an advocate for equitable care. I seek to address the unique needs of each individual while promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma in the communities I serve. I utilize a holistic and client-centered approach to medication management, recognizing that each person is unique and requires tailored interventions to achieve their goals.
One of the aspects of mental health care I am most passionate about is working underserved populations. I have seen how systemic barriers and cultural differences can impact an individual's mental health journey, and I strive to be an advocate for equitable care. I seek to address the unique needs of each individual while promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma in the communities I serve. I utilize a holistic and client-centered approach to medication management, recognizing that each person is unique and requires tailored interventions to achieve their goals.
(513) 998-6195 View (513) 998-6195

See more therapy options for Englewood

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Englewood, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Englewood, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Alcohol Use
75% Addiction
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Humana

How Psychiatrists in Englewood, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Englewood?

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.