Psychiatrists in Grove City, OH

Photo of Gerald Makobong, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Grove City, OH 43123
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
(614) 739-9364 View (614) 739-9364
Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Grove City, OH 43123
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
(614) 683-3771 View (614) 683-3771
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Grove City, OH 43123
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(614) 654-4464 View (614) 654-4464
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Grove City, OH 43123
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(614) 767-5693 View (614) 767-5693
Photo of Pamela Nkwenti, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Nkwenti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
With a deep passion for mental health care and over three years of dedicated experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive support to individuals facing mental health challenges. My journey in healthcare began with a strong foundation in nursing, which led me to pursue advanced training in psychiatric care, shaping me into the practitioner I am today.
With a deep passion for mental health care and over three years of dedicated experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive support to individuals facing mental health challenges. My journey in healthcare began with a strong foundation in nursing, which led me to pursue advanced training in psychiatric care, shaping me into the practitioner I am today.
(614) 333-0629 View (614) 333-0629
Photo of Fanta Beretay - FirstCare Integrated Health, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
FirstCare Integrated Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Grove City, OH 43123
I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders. I have experience in treating individuals from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings.
I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders. I have experience in treating individuals from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings.
(614) 412-3972 View (614) 412-3972
Photo of Tiffany Watson - Cultivating Mind LLC. , MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cultivating Mind LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our mission is to help patients understand and manage their psychiatric diagnosis, in order to function at their fullest potential.
Our mission is to help patients understand and manage their psychiatric diagnosis, in order to function at their fullest potential.
(513) 506-0168 View (513) 506-0168
Photo of Sarah (Reid) Red Specializing In Anxiety, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah (Reid) Red Specializing In Anxiety
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Grove City, OH 43123
Seeking help is hard. Here getting care is easy. - - Immediate openings for new patients - - Too often we are beaten down and we feel defeated, lose our self-confidence and our connection to others. It is important to me to restore that connection. I not only treat the mind - but also nurture the spirit - in a safe setting where you feel heard and receive compassionate, attentive care. Here you will have time to talk, and you will receive coaching and feedback from someone who listens and is invested in your success.
Seeking help is hard. Here getting care is easy. - - Immediate openings for new patients - - Too often we are beaten down and we feel defeated, lose our self-confidence and our connection to others. It is important to me to restore that connection. I not only treat the mind - but also nurture the spirit - in a safe setting where you feel heard and receive compassionate, attentive care. Here you will have time to talk, and you will receive coaching and feedback from someone who listens and is invested in your success.
(380) 600-9930 View (380) 600-9930
Photo of Michelle Fuhr, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Fuhr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Grove City, OH 43123
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ivana Balic - Keystone Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Keystone Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
(614) 820-5241 View (614) 820-5241
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, OH 43130
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(740) 200-8746 View (740) 200-8746
Ardent Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BS
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
(740) 272-4868 View (740) 272-4868
Photo of Berline Frye, PMHNP, AGNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Berline Frye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a provider that listens to you ,gives you time and pay attention to your mental health needs? Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a Mental provider that spends more than 15 minutes to ensure you have a correct diagnosis and treatment. Look no more! I provide diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and therapy services in a safe environment. After trying so long to find help for my own Loved ones, I made it my mission to do things differently, work harder to foster a safe environment for all patients, truly care for patients, and share good practices in empathy and understanding.
Are you looking for a provider that listens to you ,gives you time and pay attention to your mental health needs? Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a Mental provider that spends more than 15 minutes to ensure you have a correct diagnosis and treatment. Look no more! I provide diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and therapy services in a safe environment. After trying so long to find help for my own Loved ones, I made it my mission to do things differently, work harder to foster a safe environment for all patients, truly care for patients, and share good practices in empathy and understanding.
(440) 261-5270 View (440) 261-5270
Photo of Karim Barrie - Barrie Behavioral Health (BBH). , RN, MSN, CNP, Psych, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barrie Behavioral Health (BBH).
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CNP, Psych
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43229
Not accepting new clients
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
(380) 800-5691 View (380) 800-5691
Photo of LaVita Miller, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LaVita Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Depressed? Anxious? Mood swings? In a narcissistic relationship? Feel lost, confused, unheard, and that nobody understands? Do you need someone who will listen without judgment and make sense of your reality? Most people want peace and happiness but fail to have the tools to achieve that. Let's talk and figure out ways to improve your situation right from the comfort of your own home or even during your lunch break. If you’re willing and ready to make life changes, I am here for you. We can start now.
Depressed? Anxious? Mood swings? In a narcissistic relationship? Feel lost, confused, unheard, and that nobody understands? Do you need someone who will listen without judgment and make sense of your reality? Most people want peace and happiness but fail to have the tools to achieve that. Let's talk and figure out ways to improve your situation right from the comfort of your own home or even during your lunch break. If you’re willing and ready to make life changes, I am here for you. We can start now.
(216) 446-7452 View (216) 446-7452
Photo of Stacey Molle - New Vistas for Women Integrative Psychiatry, ACNS-BC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Vistas for Women Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ACNS-BC, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Stacey Molle (pronounced Moe-lay) is a Clinical Nurse Specialist and Nurse Practitioner that has 19 years of nursing experience and certification in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. She has worked with people from all walks of life and realizes that she particularly identifies with women, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent persons. Even while providing comprehensive care, she has found that something is missing in traditional medicine. By focusing on care that identifies the ROOT cause of clients’ symptoms, she has found that her clients have better outcomes.
Stacey Molle (pronounced Moe-lay) is a Clinical Nurse Specialist and Nurse Practitioner that has 19 years of nursing experience and certification in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. She has worked with people from all walks of life and realizes that she particularly identifies with women, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent persons. Even while providing comprehensive care, she has found that something is missing in traditional medicine. By focusing on care that identifies the ROOT cause of clients’ symptoms, she has found that her clients have better outcomes.
(380) 201-9553 View (380) 201-9553
Photo of Max Haque - Ohio Psychiatric Services and TMS Center, MD, Psychiatrist
Ohio Psychiatric Services and TMS Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hilliard, OH 43026
Combining a well-trained and highly experienced team of providers with a compassionate, patient-centered approach, Ohio Psychiatric Services has established itself as a well-respected and loved psychiatric clinic serving the Lancaster and Hilliard, Ohio, communities. The team, led by Max Haque, MD, and Pramoda Fatehchand, MS, PA-C, is dedicated to assisting each patient with a customized treatment plan that is evidence-based and proven to be effective at helping people see a reduction in their symptoms and improvement in their overall quality of life.
Combining a well-trained and highly experienced team of providers with a compassionate, patient-centered approach, Ohio Psychiatric Services has established itself as a well-respected and loved psychiatric clinic serving the Lancaster and Hilliard, Ohio, communities. The team, led by Max Haque, MD, and Pramoda Fatehchand, MS, PA-C, is dedicated to assisting each patient with a customized treatment plan that is evidence-based and proven to be effective at helping people see a reduction in their symptoms and improvement in their overall quality of life.
(380) 800-6083 View (380) 800-6083
Photo of Dale LaChance, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dale LaChance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
(614) 683-2088 View (614) 683-2088
Photo of Daniel Wilson Funk, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel Wilson Funk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in treating a variety of common psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, sleep, and personality disorders. This practice is 100% remote/telepsychiatry, proudly serving Ohio. This practice is not currently managing controlled substances (including stimulants and benzodiazepines). This practice does not offer neuropsychological testing for ADHD and does not provide ADHD diagnostic evaluations for other providers, including primary care providers.
I specialize in treating a variety of common psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, sleep, and personality disorders. This practice is 100% remote/telepsychiatry, proudly serving Ohio. This practice is not currently managing controlled substances (including stimulants and benzodiazepines). This practice does not offer neuropsychological testing for ADHD and does not provide ADHD diagnostic evaluations for other providers, including primary care providers.
(380) 777-9815 View (380) 777-9815
Photo of Larissa (Lacey) Mehling, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Larissa (Lacey) Mehling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Larissa Lacey Mehling is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Lacey has several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health NP, Lacey worked for many years on an inpatient child/adolescent psychiatry unit. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in Psychology from The Ohio State University and one in Nursing from Ashland University.
Larissa Lacey Mehling is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Lacey has several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health NP, Lacey worked for many years on an inpatient child/adolescent psychiatry unit. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in Psychology from The Ohio State University and one in Nursing from Ashland University.
(740) 841-1606 View (740) 841-1606

See more therapy options for Grove City

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Grove City, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Grove City, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
89% Anxiety
89% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
78% Medication Management
67% Addiction

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield
89% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Grove City, OH see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Grove City?

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.