Psychiatrists in Fremont, OH

Photo of Theresa Mills, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Theresa Mills
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Meet Theresa Mills, MSN, APRN, PMNP-BC: Theresa is a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over a decade of experience in nursing, she has dedicated her career to providing compassionate and effective mental health care. She is currently accepting new patients in Ohio and Arizona. She is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center with four years of specialized experience. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Toledo in Ohio. She is also a proud member of the Ohio Association of Advanced Nurse Practitioners and the American Psychiatric Association.
Meet Theresa Mills, MSN, APRN, PMNP-BC: Theresa is a Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over a decade of experience in nursing, she has dedicated her career to providing compassionate and effective mental health care. She is currently accepting new patients in Ohio and Arizona. She is board-certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center with four years of specialized experience. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Toledo in Ohio. She is also a proud member of the Ohio Association of Advanced Nurse Practitioners and the American Psychiatric Association.
(567) 344-4378 View (567) 344-4378
Photo of Sheena Witmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sheena Witmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in Women's health and Psychiatric Mental health.
Hello, I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in Women's health and Psychiatric Mental health.
(567) 347-1714 View (567) 347-1714
Photo of Sreekanth V. Indurti, Psychiatrist, MD
Sreekanth V. Indurti
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
For more than 40 years, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. My approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and a deep belief in the resilience of the human spirit. I welcome clients from all walks of life, because I believe that quality mental health care should be accessible to everyone, without limitation. I provide psychiatric services that include diagnostic evaluations and medication management.
For more than 40 years, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. My approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and a deep belief in the resilience of the human spirit. I welcome clients from all walks of life, because I believe that quality mental health care should be accessible to everyone, without limitation. I provide psychiatric services that include diagnostic evaluations and medication management.
(567) 226-3834 View (567) 226-3834

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Katrina Ivory, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Katrina Ivory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who wants to better understand their mental health, gain clarity, and take active steps toward personal growth and emotional well-being. They are open to individualized care and guidance, seeking a safe, supportive space where they feel heard and empowered. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship, providing psychiatric evaluations, thoughtful medication management, and holistic support to help them achieve stability, resilience, and meaningful progress in their lives.
My ideal client is someone who wants to better understand their mental health, gain clarity, and take active steps toward personal growth and emotional well-being. They are open to individualized care and guidance, seeking a safe, supportive space where they feel heard and empowered. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship, providing psychiatric evaluations, thoughtful medication management, and holistic support to help them achieve stability, resilience, and meaningful progress in their lives.
(216) 238-5469 View (216) 238-5469
Photo of Nicole Dunwald, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Dunwald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with several years of experience working in adult inpatient mental health and currently transitioning to outpatient private practice. I received both my undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Toledo. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental illnesses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other serious mental illness. I am currently accepting new clients ages 13+.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with several years of experience working in adult inpatient mental health and currently transitioning to outpatient private practice. I received both my undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Toledo. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental illnesses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other serious mental illness. I am currently accepting new clients ages 13+.
(419) 749-6980 View (419) 749-6980
Photo of Ben Wagner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ben Wagner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Starting mental health treatment can feel intimidating, especially if past approaches have not brought the relief you were hoping for. My goal is to meet you where you are, whether you are navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, or other challenges. I create a safe and collaborative space where we can work together to understand your symptoms and build a treatment plan that feels tailored to you.
Starting mental health treatment can feel intimidating, especially if past approaches have not brought the relief you were hoping for. My goal is to meet you where you are, whether you are navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, or other challenges. I create a safe and collaborative space where we can work together to understand your symptoms and build a treatment plan that feels tailored to you.
(419) 863-5377 View (419) 863-5377
Photo of Isaac Bofah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APRN, DNP
Isaac Bofah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APRN, DNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or a mood disorder can make it feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. I get it — and I'm here to help you find real, lasting relief. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 6 years of experience delivering patient-centered mental health care. I specialize in mood disorders and work with adults who are tired of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or misunderstood by the healthcare system.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or a mood disorder can make it feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. I get it — and I'm here to help you find real, lasting relief. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 6 years of experience delivering patient-centered mental health care. I specialize in mood disorders and work with adults who are tired of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or misunderstood by the healthcare system.
(216) 930-1844 View (216) 930-1844
Photo of Michelle Fuhr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP
Michelle Fuhr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP
21 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with individuals from 16 years old to aging adults. Working in healthcare for so many years, I understand the struggles of the things we carry and tuck under the rug which really gives me a strong passion for helping healthcare workers and giving back to that community. I also have a strong passion for military, minorities, adopted, and LGTBQ+ communities. But really, I want to help everyone I can. I want everyone to feel like their best self and enjoy life to the fullest.
I enjoy working with individuals from 16 years old to aging adults. Working in healthcare for so many years, I understand the struggles of the things we carry and tuck under the rug which really gives me a strong passion for helping healthcare workers and giving back to that community. I also have a strong passion for military, minorities, adopted, and LGTBQ+ communities. But really, I want to help everyone I can. I want everyone to feel like their best self and enjoy life to the fullest.
(419) 374-9521 View (419) 374-9521
Photo of Darlene Washington, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Darlene Washington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is looking for compassionate, comprehensive psychiatric care that combines evidence-based treatments with a holistic approach to support overall mental wellness. They want understanding, guidance, and support in a nonjudgmental space. Together, we explore personal goals and discuss how medication management and individualized treatment strategies can empower them toward stability, growth, and lasting wellness.
My ideal client is looking for compassionate, comprehensive psychiatric care that combines evidence-based treatments with a holistic approach to support overall mental wellness. They want understanding, guidance, and support in a nonjudgmental space. Together, we explore personal goals and discuss how medication management and individualized treatment strategies can empower them toward stability, growth, and lasting wellness.
(216) 412-9583 View (216) 412-9583
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation 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 holistically treated and cared for. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation 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 holistically treated and cared for. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
(513) 450-8572 View (513) 450-8572
Photo of Jacki Veler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacki Veler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
It’s so common to feel lost in the mental health system — rushed appointments, feeling like just another number, or starting over with someone new every few months. If that’s been your experience, you’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to stay that way. I’m Jacki Veler, MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, founder of NewHeart Mental Health and Wellness. With over 16 years of experience in psychiatric care, family practice, hospital units, and addiction recovery, I bring a unique whole-person perspective to every client I serve.
It’s so common to feel lost in the mental health system — rushed appointments, feeling like just another number, or starting over with someone new every few months. If that’s been your experience, you’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to stay that way. I’m Jacki Veler, MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, founder of NewHeart Mental Health and Wellness. With over 16 years of experience in psychiatric care, family practice, hospital units, and addiction recovery, I bring a unique whole-person perspective to every client I serve.
(567) 529-5254 View (567) 529-5254
Photo of Andrene Benjamin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Andrene Benjamin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who appears to hold it all together on the outside but feels overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck on the inside. They may be navigating life transitions, trauma, ADHD, or persistent low mood, and they’re ready for change. They’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a safe space to be fully heard and supported.
My ideal client is someone who appears to hold it all together on the outside but feels overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck on the inside. They may be navigating life transitions, trauma, ADHD, or persistent low mood, and they’re ready for change. They’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a safe space to be fully heard and supported.
(971) 391-2329 View (971) 391-2329
Photo of Traci Renzulli, Psychiatric Nurse, FNP, PMHNP
Traci Renzulli
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My Ideal Client: Seeking Stability & Growth My ideal client is an adult managing a severe, persistent mental illness (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, severe depression) or co-occurring anxiety, PTSD, or substance use. Their issues include symptom fluctuations, relationship/employment struggles, and medication adherence challenges, often leading to hospitalizations. They need consistent, compassionate support, expert medication management, psychoeducation, and care coordination. Their goals are to reduce symptoms, improve relationships/work, gain control over their mental health, develop coping skills, and reintegrate into
My Ideal Client: Seeking Stability & Growth My ideal client is an adult managing a severe, persistent mental illness (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, severe depression) or co-occurring anxiety, PTSD, or substance use. Their issues include symptom fluctuations, relationship/employment struggles, and medication adherence challenges, often leading to hospitalizations. They need consistent, compassionate support, expert medication management, psychoeducation, and care coordination. Their goals are to reduce symptoms, improve relationships/work, gain control over their mental health, develop coping skills, and reintegrate into
(216) 930-2045 View (216) 930-2045
Photo of Melissa Fox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melissa Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Melissa works with adults to provide thoughtful, individualized mental health care. She combines medication management with supportive therapy, tailoring her approach to each person’s unique needs and goals. Melissa creates a welcoming and respectful space where clients feel heard, valued, and understood. Her care emphasizes collaboration, compassion, and practical strategies for improving mental wellness. New clients are welcome, with appointments often available within one week.
Melissa works with adults to provide thoughtful, individualized mental health care. She combines medication management with supportive therapy, tailoring her approach to each person’s unique needs and goals. Melissa creates a welcoming and respectful space where clients feel heard, valued, and understood. Her care emphasizes collaboration, compassion, and practical strategies for improving mental wellness. New clients are welcome, with appointments often available within one week.
(419) 945-4375 View (419) 945-4375
Photo of Jennifer Cochran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Cochran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
8 Endorsed
Oregon, OH 43616
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in both Ohio and Florida. I am dedicated to making a difference in my patients lives! I evaluate and screen for various mental health conditions and determine if medication is the right route for treatment, then adjust those medications in a safe manner. My passion is helping patients achieve balance in their daily life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. I want to help you achieve stability and help you grow! I provide a safe space, am LGBTQA+ friendly, and provide care in a non-judgmental manner. Your goals are my goals!
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in both Ohio and Florida. I am dedicated to making a difference in my patients lives! I evaluate and screen for various mental health conditions and determine if medication is the right route for treatment, then adjust those medications in a safe manner. My passion is helping patients achieve balance in their daily life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. I want to help you achieve stability and help you grow! I provide a safe space, am LGBTQA+ friendly, and provide care in a non-judgmental manner. Your goals are my goals!
(727) 610-8533 View (727) 610-8533
Photo of Melissa Fox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melissa Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Melissa provides thoughtful and compassionate care for adults navigating mental health concerns. She takes time to understand each individual’s situation & clearly explains treatment options, blending medication management with supportive therapy. Whether clients are beginning to explore their mental health or managing an existing diagnosis, Melissa offers a safe, respectful, & welcoming space. Her approach is grounded in trust and collaboration. New clients are welcome, with appointments often available within one week.
Melissa provides thoughtful and compassionate care for adults navigating mental health concerns. She takes time to understand each individual’s situation & clearly explains treatment options, blending medication management with supportive therapy. Whether clients are beginning to explore their mental health or managing an existing diagnosis, Melissa offers a safe, respectful, & welcoming space. Her approach is grounded in trust and collaboration. New clients are welcome, with appointments often available within one week.
(419) 845-8504 View (419) 845-8504
Photo of Jonathan Maciejewski, Psychiatrist
Jonathan Maciejewski
Psychiatrist
Sandusky, OH 44870
Dr. Maciejewski is a psychiatrist specializing in comprehensive medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. With a patient-centered and evidence-based approach, he focuses on creating individualized treatment plans that prioritize both effectiveness and quality of life.
Dr. Maciejewski is a psychiatrist specializing in comprehensive medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, PTSD and ADHD. With a patient-centered and evidence-based approach, he focuses on creating individualized treatment plans that prioritize both effectiveness and quality of life.
(419) 862-8566 View (419) 862-8566
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - MDUSA, Psychiatrist, MD
MDUSA
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
MDUSA brings comprehensive psychiatric, therapy, and telehealth services to Ohio and Michigan residents through our new multispecialty practice. We treat the full spectrum of mental health conditions, from anxiety and depression to complex psychiatric disorders, with personalized care plans tailored to each patient's unique needs.
MDUSA brings comprehensive psychiatric, therapy, and telehealth services to Ohio and Michigan residents through our new multispecialty practice. We treat the full spectrum of mental health conditions, from anxiety and depression to complex psychiatric disorders, with personalized care plans tailored to each patient's unique needs.
(419) 871-3631 View (419) 871-3631
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.
(567) 229-3039 View (567) 229-3039
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119

See more therapy options for Fremont

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Fremont, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Fremont, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
67% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Medication Management
33% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

47 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Fremont, OH see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Fremont?

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.