Psychiatrists in Kingston, OH

Photo of Megan Eing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Megan Eing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am accepting new patients! I have openings on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 10am until 9pm! Having 20 years of rich nursing experience, I am excited to dedicate my time now to providing effective, up-to-date, and evidence-based care to patients. My background is in emergency medicine as a mobile intensive care unit nurse, flight nurse, and emergency room nurse. Having deep empathy for patients struggling with mental health needs, I am driven to provide the best possible support and treatment for each patient.
I am accepting new patients! I have openings on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 10am until 9pm! Having 20 years of rich nursing experience, I am excited to dedicate my time now to providing effective, up-to-date, and evidence-based care to patients. My background is in emergency medicine as a mobile intensive care unit nurse, flight nurse, and emergency room nurse. Having deep empathy for patients struggling with mental health needs, I am driven to provide the best possible support and treatment for each patient.
(740) 729-0976 View (740) 729-0976

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Erica Gantner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erica Gantner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I have been dedicated to the medical field since 2011, starting my career as a nurse in the fast-paced environment of the emergency room. This experience gave me a solid foundation in acute care and the ability to respond quickly under pressure. Over time, I shifted my focus to mental health full-time, becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I've worked across a variety of settings, including acute inpatient units, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and traditional outpatient care.
I have been dedicated to the medical field since 2011, starting my career as a nurse in the fast-paced environment of the emergency room. This experience gave me a solid foundation in acute care and the ability to respond quickly under pressure. Over time, I shifted my focus to mental health full-time, becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I've worked across a variety of settings, including acute inpatient units, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and traditional outpatient care.
(740) 509-7359 View (740) 509-7359
Photo of Liliane Chekeu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Liliane Chekeu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with your mental health? You don’t have to go through it alone. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions across the lifespan. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and empowered in your healing journey.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with your mental health? You don’t have to go through it alone. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions across the lifespan. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and empowered in your healing journey.
(614) 683-5882 View (614) 683-5882
Photo of Wendy Brandeberry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Wendy Brandeberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Wendy Brandeberry, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering telehealth and in office care to adults throughout Ohio. I’ve spent over two decades helping people move from overwhelmed and anxious to calm, confident, and in control of their mental health. I specialize in ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless or stuck in ruminating thoughts they can’t shut off. I bring empathy, deep listening, and a collaborative spirit to every session—we’re in this together, and I’ll meet you exactly where you are.
Hi, I’m Wendy Brandeberry, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering telehealth and in office care to adults throughout Ohio. I’ve spent over two decades helping people move from overwhelmed and anxious to calm, confident, and in control of their mental health. I specialize in ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and many of my clients come to me feeling hopeless or stuck in ruminating thoughts they can’t shut off. I bring empathy, deep listening, and a collaborative spirit to every session—we’re in this together, and I’ll meet you exactly where you are.
(567) 749-2734 View (567) 749-2734
Photo of Mark Tuvelle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mark Tuvelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and always want to ensure that my clients feel they are “being listened to.” I believe a provider must truly listen to understand their client’s concerns, thus ensuring that their priorities are being addressed. I believe that communication lays the foundation for any effective partnership and that successful psychiatric care begins with open, honest, and genuine communication between provider and client, with an overall goal of helping the individual enhance all aspects of health and overall well-being using a holistic approach.
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and always want to ensure that my clients feel they are “being listened to.” I believe a provider must truly listen to understand their client’s concerns, thus ensuring that their priorities are being addressed. I believe that communication lays the foundation for any effective partnership and that successful psychiatric care begins with open, honest, and genuine communication between provider and client, with an overall goal of helping the individual enhance all aspects of health and overall well-being using a holistic approach.
(440) 553-8704 View (440) 553-8704
Photo of Natasha Asante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Natasha Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Natasha Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental well-being. I graduated from the University of Toledo with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2017, and since then, I have worked in various nursing specialties. Throughout my career, I developed a deep passion for mental health, which led me to pursue higher education.
My name is Natasha Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental well-being. I graduated from the University of Toledo with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2017, and since then, I have worked in various nursing specialties. Throughout my career, I developed a deep passion for mental health, which led me to pursue higher education.
(380) 233-9283 View (380) 233-9283
Photo of Jennifer Eckhardt - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN
Orient, OH 43146
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(740) 609-2504 View (740) 609-2504
Photo of Maureen Odemena, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maureen Odemena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Maureen Odemena. I am a family as well as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a total of 11 years of experience.
My name is Maureen Odemena. I am a family as well as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a total of 11 years of experience.
(614) 881-2413 View (614) 881-2413
Photo of Emmanuel Nji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Emmanuel Nji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Chillicothe, OH 45601
My ideal client is the person who appears to have it all together on the outside but is quietly falling apart on the inside. They may be battling anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma, mood instability, or ADHD — and they're done trying to push through alone. They've tried managing it themselves, but deep down they know they need more than willpower. They need real help from someone who truly sees them. They want to be heard without judgment, treated as a whole person — not just a diagnosis — and given a care plan as unique as their story. With five years of outstanding psychiatric practice and a proven track record.
My ideal client is the person who appears to have it all together on the outside but is quietly falling apart on the inside. They may be battling anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma, mood instability, or ADHD — and they're done trying to push through alone. They've tried managing it themselves, but deep down they know they need more than willpower. They need real help from someone who truly sees them. They want to be heard without judgment, treated as a whole person — not just a diagnosis — and given a care plan as unique as their story. With five years of outstanding psychiatric practice and a proven track record.
(740) 722-8235 View (740) 722-8235
Photo of Chriscia Bane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chriscia Bane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chillicothe, OH 45601
Hello, I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care that includes psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan that supports your goals and helps you feel your best.
Hello, I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care that includes psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to develop a treatment plan that supports your goals and helps you feel your best.
(740) 721-6310 View (740) 721-6310
Photo of Lisa Ann Cullison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Lisa Ann Cullison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Online Only
My ideal clients are people who have been carrying their struggles quietly — feeling helpless, unimportant, or like they don't deserve help. They come to me navigating depression, mood disorders, or substance use, often having tried to push through on their own for too long. Through telehealth across Ohio, I meet them where they are — literally and emotionally. Together, we slow down, get honest about what's really going on, and build a path forward grounded in mental, emotional, and spiritual healing, not just symptom management.
My ideal clients are people who have been carrying their struggles quietly — feeling helpless, unimportant, or like they don't deserve help. They come to me navigating depression, mood disorders, or substance use, often having tried to push through on their own for too long. Through telehealth across Ohio, I meet them where they are — literally and emotionally. Together, we slow down, get honest about what's really going on, and build a path forward grounded in mental, emotional, and spiritual healing, not just symptom management.
(740) 982-1547 View (740) 982-1547
Photo of Tracy Coats - Insight TMS and Mental Health Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Insight TMS and Mental Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Chillicothe, OH 45601
At Insight TMS and Mental Health Care, our patients' satisfaction is our top priority. We offer a welcoming and comfortable environment with personalized care to ensure that our patients receive the best possible experience.
At Insight TMS and Mental Health Care, our patients' satisfaction is our top priority. We offer a welcoming and comfortable environment with personalized care to ensure that our patients receive the best possible experience.
(740) 722-8340 View (740) 722-8340
Photo of Dr. Jessica Fowler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Jessica Fowler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client is someone who is ready for change, even if they feel unsure or overwhelmed about where to begin. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood instability, trauma, ADHD, or life transitions that are affecting their work, relationships, or overall functioning. Often, they feel exhausted from “just getting by” and want clarity, stability, and a renewed sense of control over their mental health.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client is someone who is ready for change, even if they feel unsure or overwhelmed about where to begin. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood instability, trauma, ADHD, or life transitions that are affecting their work, relationships, or overall functioning. Often, they feel exhausted from “just getting by” and want clarity, stability, and a renewed sense of control over their mental health.
(216) 616-3869 View (216) 616-3869
Photo of Jennifer Eckhardt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Jennifer Eckhardt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Orient, OH 43146
Jennifer Eckhardt is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, board certified from the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in nursing at Wright State University. Prior to receiving her PMHNP, she has over 18 years of experience as a nurse working in addiction in pregnancy, inpatient behavioral health, and labor and delivery. While working as a nurse in addiction, she felt the need to further her education about mental health disorders in order to make an impact within this community.
Jennifer Eckhardt is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, board certified from the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in nursing at Wright State University. Prior to receiving her PMHNP, she has over 18 years of experience as a nurse working in addiction in pregnancy, inpatient behavioral health, and labor and delivery. While working as a nurse in addiction, she felt the need to further her education about mental health disorders in order to make an impact within this community.
(740) 761-2725 View (740) 761-2725
Photo of Julie Jubb, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julie Jubb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! I’m certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio and Montana. I graduated with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in Healthcare Systems Leadership and am dual certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and a PMHNP. I help patients from young children to older adults with mental health treatment that can include medication, processing difficulties, and working on coping skills and healthy lifestyle.
Hi! I’m certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio and Montana. I graduated with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in Healthcare Systems Leadership and am dual certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and a PMHNP. I help patients from young children to older adults with mental health treatment that can include medication, processing difficulties, and working on coping skills and healthy lifestyle.
(740) 519-8483 View (740) 519-8483
Photo of Nan MacLean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Nan MacLean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Orient, OH 43146
Before becoming a PMHNP, Nan worked as a registered nurse in various areas of mental health care from correctional medicine, inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care, to addiction medicine. From her diverse experience, Nan understands the importance of treating the whole person for their mind, body, and spirit. Nan is bilingual in Mandarin Chinese and English. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, journaling, and spending time with family and friends.
Before becoming a PMHNP, Nan worked as a registered nurse in various areas of mental health care from correctional medicine, inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care, to addiction medicine. From her diverse experience, Nan understands the importance of treating the whole person for their mind, body, and spirit. Nan is bilingual in Mandarin Chinese and English. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, journaling, and spending time with family and friends.
(614) 683-4309 View (614) 683-4309
Photo of Ardo Dahir, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, CNP, PMHNP -, BC
Ardo Dahir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, CNP, PMHNP -, BC
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing telehealth psychiatric care across Ohio. Through my practice, IFTIN Psychiatry Services, I support preteens, adolescents, and adults facing emotional, behavioral, and trauma-related challenges. My clinical focus includes anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ODD, trauma, PTSD, and other psychiatric concerns. I offer a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach to help clients build coping skills, regulate emotions, and regain stability.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing telehealth psychiatric care across Ohio. Through my practice, IFTIN Psychiatry Services, I support preteens, adolescents, and adults facing emotional, behavioral, and trauma-related challenges. My clinical focus includes anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ODD, trauma, PTSD, and other psychiatric concerns. I offer a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach to help clients build coping skills, regulate emotions, and regain stability.
(614) 756-5773 View (614) 756-5773
Photo of Kelcie Fraley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Kelcie Fraley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
17 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Kelcie, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. My goal is to listen, understand, and work alongside you to find the path that feels right for your mental health. Together, we can explore evidence-based options tailored to your needs, preferences, and values.
Hi, I’m Kelcie, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. My goal is to listen, understand, and work alongside you to find the path that feels right for your mental health. Together, we can explore evidence-based options tailored to your needs, preferences, and values.
(740) 679-6738 View (740) 679-6738
Photo of Helene Muhirwa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Helene Muhirwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Groveport, OH 43125
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Weight loss ,Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve ideal healthy weight, ideal mental state or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Weight loss ,Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve ideal healthy weight, ideal mental state or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
(614) 756-5649 View (614) 756-5649
Photo of Erica Gantner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erica Gantner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, OH 43130
My ideal client is someone ready to take meaningful steps on their mental health journey. They come with honesty and openness, willing to share their experiences and challenges transparently. This person is eager to seek advice, engage actively in treatment, and embrace new strategies for well-being. Above all, they are committed to improving their quality of life and motivated to create a brighter future. Working with such clients allows for a collaborative and supportive process, where growth and positive change become possible.
My ideal client is someone ready to take meaningful steps on their mental health journey. They come with honesty and openness, willing to share their experiences and challenges transparently. This person is eager to seek advice, engage actively in treatment, and embrace new strategies for well-being. Above all, they are committed to improving their quality of life and motivated to create a brighter future. Working with such clients allows for a collaborative and supportive process, where growth and positive change become possible.
(380) 225-5592 View (380) 225-5592

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kingston, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Kingston, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in Kingston, OH see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kingston?

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.