Psychiatrists in Euclid, OH

Photo of Tameika S Harris - Tameika Harris at Divine Solutions Center LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMH-BC, APRN
Tameika Harris at Divine Solutions Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMH-BC, APRN
6 Endorsed
Euclid, OH 44123
My ideal client is seeking healing from anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or emotionally overwhelmed. They want a compassionate provider who offers both clinical expertise and spiritual sensitivity. Their goal is to feel whole, balanced, and at peace. They’re looking for clarity, support, and solutions—and they’re ready to address the root of their struggles through a holistic and faith-integrated approach that includes therapy and, if needed, medication management.
My ideal client is seeking healing from anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or emotionally overwhelmed. They want a compassionate provider who offers both clinical expertise and spiritual sensitivity. Their goal is to feel whole, balanced, and at peace. They’re looking for clarity, support, and solutions—and they’re ready to address the root of their struggles through a holistic and faith-integrated approach that includes therapy and, if needed, medication management.
(216) 350-0839 View (216) 350-0839
Photo of Berline Frye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Berline Frye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, Are you looking for a provider that listens to you, gives you time, and pays attention to your mental health needs? Berline is a nurse practitioner dually board certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as Adult-Geriatric primary care nurse practitioner. She is board certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She has experience working in acute inpatient hospitals and outpatient private practice settings.
Hi there, Are you looking for a provider that listens to you, gives you time, and pays attention to your mental health needs? Berline is a nurse practitioner dually board certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as Adult-Geriatric primary care nurse practitioner. She is board certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She has experience working in acute inpatient hospitals and outpatient private practice settings.
(440) 616-8156 View (440) 616-8156
Photo of Ezinne Anaba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ezinne Anaba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
My name is Ezi and as a dual-certified Family & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate,
My name is Ezi and as a dual-certified Family & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate,
(740) 480-2506 View (740) 480-2506
Photo of Christabel Ahenkan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christabel Ahenkan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I pride myself on centering as a holistic mental health provider and strive to support individuals in their journey towards emotional well-being and mental health. My mission is to provide accessible and effective mental health services to all individuals. I believe that everyone has the right to access quality mental health care, and I am committed to making that a reality. I offer services to support individuals in achieving optimal mental health and wellness. Our team of dedicated and experienced mental health professionals is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those in need.
I pride myself on centering as a holistic mental health provider and strive to support individuals in their journey towards emotional well-being and mental health. My mission is to provide accessible and effective mental health services to all individuals. I believe that everyone has the right to access quality mental health care, and I am committed to making that a reality. I offer services to support individuals in achieving optimal mental health and wellness. Our team of dedicated and experienced mental health professionals is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those in need.
(380) 333-5765 View (380) 333-5765
Photo of Kerri Pearch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kerri Pearch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Specialized in guiding youth, young adults and adults ages 10-60 through mental health challenges. If you are struggling with impaired daily functioning, have experienced trauma, but lack a formal diagnosis, I am here to help. By offering both diagnosis and medication management, we ensure each person receives the personalized care they need.
Specialized in guiding youth, young adults and adults ages 10-60 through mental health challenges. If you are struggling with impaired daily functioning, have experienced trauma, but lack a formal diagnosis, I am here to help. By offering both diagnosis and medication management, we ensure each person receives the personalized care they need.
(216) 340-9591 View (216) 340-9591
Photo of Lauren Kusi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Lauren Kusi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or searching for support that truly looks at the whole picture of your mental health? I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care, treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I believe effective treatment addresses biological, psychological, and social factors—not just symptoms—so care feels meaningful and lasting.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or searching for support that truly looks at the whole picture of your mental health? I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care, treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I believe effective treatment addresses biological, psychological, and social factors—not just symptoms—so care feels meaningful and lasting.
(234) 657-1922 View (234) 657-1922
Photo of Lacresha Rox - Compass Crossing Behavioral Health- Lacresha Rox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Compass Crossing Behavioral Health- Lacresha Rox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, SAME WEEK, EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. Are you or a loved one are suffering from mental health concerns? Seeking help can be overwhelming. Look no further. We offer high quality, compassionate care in a judgement free environment with a provider who listens to your concerns.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, SAME WEEK, EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. Are you or a loved one are suffering from mental health concerns? Seeking help can be overwhelming. Look no further. We offer high quality, compassionate care in a judgement free environment with a provider who listens to your concerns.
(216) 454-2570 View (216) 454-2570

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kristen Manrodt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Kristen Manrodt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Westlake, OH 44145
Waitlist for new clients
As a prescriber, my goal is to help you achieve your BEST life. Sometimes medication is needed to meet this goal and create a balance within your brain chemistry. I always start medication at a low dose and increase slowly to prevent any unwanted side effects. I have learned that clients tend to continue medication regimens when this way of prescribing is followed.
As a prescriber, my goal is to help you achieve your BEST life. Sometimes medication is needed to meet this goal and create a balance within your brain chemistry. I always start medication at a low dose and increase slowly to prevent any unwanted side effects. I have learned that clients tend to continue medication regimens when this way of prescribing is followed.
(440) 754-7515 View (440) 754-7515
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Shoenfelt, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jennifer Shoenfelt
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Jennifer Shoenfelt is a double board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on child and adolescent medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Shoenfelt may believe that additional therapy is needed and will ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome. She provides treatment plans that include holistic recommendations that include diet, exercise, educational and psychosocial/spiritual aspects of care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoenfelt is a double board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on child and adolescent medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Shoenfelt may believe that additional therapy is needed and will ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome. She provides treatment plans that include holistic recommendations that include diet, exercise, educational and psychosocial/spiritual aspects of care.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Austin Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN
Austin Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN
2 Endorsed
I am board certified in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan and offer medication management, initial consultations, follow up visit, psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and promoting a holistic approach to mental health treatment.
I am board certified in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan and offer medication management, initial consultations, follow up visit, psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and promoting a holistic approach to mental health treatment.
(440) 298-2358 View (440) 298-2358
Photo of Syed Alam, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Syed Alam
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Solon, OH 44139
My ideal patient is an adolescent or adult struggling with emotional distress related to mood, anxiety, trauma, identity, or life transitions, often influenced by culture, migration, family systems, or minority stress. They may also face obesity-related challenges, including emotional eating, low self-esteem, metabolic concerns, or weight-related stigma affecting mental health. They seek compassionate, whole-person psychiatric care that integrates psychological, biological, and lifestyle factors to help them achieve emotional stability, improved health, and sustainable well-being.
My ideal patient is an adolescent or adult struggling with emotional distress related to mood, anxiety, trauma, identity, or life transitions, often influenced by culture, migration, family systems, or minority stress. They may also face obesity-related challenges, including emotional eating, low self-esteem, metabolic concerns, or weight-related stigma affecting mental health. They seek compassionate, whole-person psychiatric care that integrates psychological, biological, and lifestyle factors to help them achieve emotional stability, improved health, and sustainable well-being.
(440) 294-4797 View (440) 294-4797
Photo of Veronica Hollabaugh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Veronica Hollabaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Westlake, OH 44145
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or “stuck” after trying to manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma on their own. They want clarity, stability, and a plan that actually helps them feel better—not just temporarily, but in a way that supports long-term well-being. My approach looks at the whole picture: your symptoms, stress, lifestyle, and the underlying factors that may be affecting your mental health.
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or “stuck” after trying to manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma on their own. They want clarity, stability, and a plan that actually helps them feel better—not just temporarily, but in a way that supports long-term well-being. My approach looks at the whole picture: your symptoms, stress, lifestyle, and the underlying factors that may be affecting your mental health.
(440) 693-2135 View (440) 693-2135
Photo of Danny E. Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny E. Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
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.
(216) 777-7699 View (216) 777-7699
Photo of Cheryl D Wills, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, ACPsych
Cheryl D Wills
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, ACPsych
Beachwood, OH 44122
I am a board-certified general and child psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. I will collaborate with you to reduce symptoms, provide tools for emotional self-care and improve your quality of life. I help children and adolescents with learning, school, self-esteem, mood and behavioral concerns. I also assist youths who are transitioning to adulthood. I collaborate with adults under age 55 (at the time of the first appointment) who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and developmental disorders when there is a good fit. I enjoy working with people of all faiths, cultures and gender identities.
I am a board-certified general and child psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. I will collaborate with you to reduce symptoms, provide tools for emotional self-care and improve your quality of life. I help children and adolescents with learning, school, self-esteem, mood and behavioral concerns. I also assist youths who are transitioning to adulthood. I collaborate with adults under age 55 (at the time of the first appointment) who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and developmental disorders when there is a good fit. I enjoy working with people of all faiths, cultures and gender identities.
(216) 208-7214 View (216) 208-7214
Photo of Cheryl Biddle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Cheryl Biddle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Twinsburg, OH 44087
A central focus of Cheryl’s practice is assisting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital. She is passionate about helping patients maintain continuity of care during this critical period, providing careful medication oversight and support to reduce the risk of relapse and promote a smooth transition back to daily life. Cheryl works closely with patients to foster stability, safety, and confidence as they navigate recovery. At LifeStance Health, Cheryl provides medication management for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disturbances.
A central focus of Cheryl’s practice is assisting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital. She is passionate about helping patients maintain continuity of care during this critical period, providing careful medication oversight and support to reduce the risk of relapse and promote a smooth transition back to daily life. Cheryl works closely with patients to foster stability, safety, and confidence as they navigate recovery. At LifeStance Health, Cheryl provides medication management for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disturbances.
(234) 407-1160 View (234) 407-1160
Photo of Jess Levy, Psychiatrist, MD
Jess Levy
Psychiatrist, MD
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 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
Serves Area
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 Jodie Skillicorn, Psychiatrist, DO
Jodie Skillicorn
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I integrate conventional psychiatric treatment options of psychotherapy with research-based complementary modalities including mindfulness, breath-work, qi gong, biofeedback, imagery, EMDR, EFT, nutrition, exercise, ecotherapy, and supplements, along with prescriptions, if and only if, absolutely necessary. Conditions treated include depression, anxiety, climate distress, and trauma, as well as fatigue, pain, and general health issues that often have a stress induced component. For more information about my approach check out my book Healing Depression without Medications: A Psychiatrist's Guide to Balancing Mind, Body, and Soul.
I integrate conventional psychiatric treatment options of psychotherapy with research-based complementary modalities including mindfulness, breath-work, qi gong, biofeedback, imagery, EMDR, EFT, nutrition, exercise, ecotherapy, and supplements, along with prescriptions, if and only if, absolutely necessary. Conditions treated include depression, anxiety, climate distress, and trauma, as well as fatigue, pain, and general health issues that often have a stress induced component. For more information about my approach check out my book Healing Depression without Medications: A Psychiatrist's Guide to Balancing Mind, Body, and Soul.
(330) 679-8477 View (330) 679-8477
Photo of Tamar Nussbaum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Tamar Nussbaum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Beachwood, OH 44122
Tamar Nussbaum, NP, PMHNP, is a dualcertified advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health, dedicated to promoting mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing across Ohio. As both a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Tamar brings a comprehensive approach to care, blending her expertise to address a wide range of mental health concerns. Whether treating children, adolescents, adults, or seniors, her focus is on helping clients achieve balance and overall health through evidencebased practices tailored to individual needs.
Tamar Nussbaum, NP, PMHNP, is a dualcertified advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health, dedicated to promoting mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing across Ohio. As both a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Tamar brings a comprehensive approach to care, blending her expertise to address a wide range of mental health concerns. Whether treating children, adolescents, adults, or seniors, her focus is on helping clients achieve balance and overall health through evidencebased practices tailored to individual needs.
(216) 677-8239 View (216) 677-8239
Photo of Anna Popova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Anna Popova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Beachwood, OH 44122
Anna Popova, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Anna Popova is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Akron, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College, is a Licensed Practical Nurse through ATS Institute of Technology, is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the Ohio Board of Nursing and is ANCC certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Anna Popova, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Anna Popova is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Akron, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College, is a Licensed Practical Nurse through ATS Institute of Technology, is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the Ohio Board of Nursing and is ANCC certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
(216) 446-8635 View (216) 446-8635

See more therapy options for Euclid

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Euclid, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Euclid, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
86% Anxiety
71% Anger Management
71% Medication Management
57% ADHD
57% Grief
57% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Euclid, OH see their clients

86% Online Only
14% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Euclid?

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.