Psychiatrists in Lewis Center, OH

Ardent Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BS
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035  (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 Ian Marconi, MSN,  APRN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ian Marconi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Ian M. Marconi MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a 2002 graduate from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a 2007 graduate of Mt. Carmel College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a 2021 graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Psych-Mental Health. I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU.
Ian M. Marconi MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a 2002 graduate from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a 2007 graduate of Mt. Carmel College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a 2021 graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Psych-Mental Health. I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU.
(614) 762-9214 View (614) 762-9214
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(740) 660-3831 View (740) 660-3831
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(740) 761-2270 View (740) 761-2270
Photo of Kathryn Hendricks, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathryn Hendricks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
(614) 660-5691 View (614) 660-5691
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
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.
(740) 660-3748 View (740) 660-3748
Photo of Tessa Ryan, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tessa Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Welcome! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to empowering individuals, helping them achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. I am invested in taking a collaborative, comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my clients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that my care is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
Welcome! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to empowering individuals, helping them achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. I am invested in taking a collaborative, comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my clients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that my care is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
(614) 858-8153 View (614) 858-8153
Photo of Amy Everhart - Well Balanced Women, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Well Balanced Women
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewis Center, OH 43035
We are a group of three psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners on a mission to change mental healthcare for women. We aim to break the stigma to normalize therapy and medication management because they truly go together. We specialize in helping women on all walks of life find the right medication for them so they can achieve all their wildest dreams. We utilize brief psychotherapy in our medication management appointments as well as integrative means when appropriate (think labs, supplements, lifestyle factors, etc). Building relationships and laughing with our patients is our favorite. We can't wait to get to know you!
We are a group of three psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners on a mission to change mental healthcare for women. We aim to break the stigma to normalize therapy and medication management because they truly go together. We specialize in helping women on all walks of life find the right medication for them so they can achieve all their wildest dreams. We utilize brief psychotherapy in our medication management appointments as well as integrative means when appropriate (think labs, supplements, lifestyle factors, etc). Building relationships and laughing with our patients is our favorite. We can't wait to get to know you!
(380) 666-8567 View (380) 666-8567
Photo of Dr. Olivetta Uradu, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Olivetta Uradu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035  (Online Only)
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Becca Granger, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Becca Granger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell, OH 43065
Are you a high functioning individual who has mastered the art of, "I'm fine. It's fine. Everything's fine?" Wondering how much longer you can keep up the pace and who will be impacted if you cannot? Looking for a confidential space where you don’t have to be “on?” A space to be real and address the stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, and insomnia that often come with great responsibility? Space to breathe, be heard, gain perspective, develop solutions, and leave with hope?
Are you a high functioning individual who has mastered the art of, "I'm fine. It's fine. Everything's fine?" Wondering how much longer you can keep up the pace and who will be impacted if you cannot? Looking for a confidential space where you don’t have to be “on?” A space to be real and address the stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, and insomnia that often come with great responsibility? Space to breathe, be heard, gain perspective, develop solutions, and leave with hope?
(419) 664-5378 View (419) 664-5378
Photo of Barbara Jones Warren, PhD, APRN, PMH-BC, FNAP, FAAN, Psychiatric Nurse
Barbara Jones Warren
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, PMH-BC, FNAP, FAAN
Verified Verified
Powell, OH 43065
My overall aim is to provide the best evidence-based level of care for my clients. I care about them and what they need. I work collaborative with clients to develop goals and how to achieve them. I also want to make certain that others the client cares about are included in our collaborative planning process. My ideal client is the one who I am working with at the time! I am Board Certified at the Doctorate level to provide therapies and biopsychosocial care for ages 13 years and throughout the lifespan. I use mindfulness and a calm atmosphere in order to meet individual, couple, family and even community needs.
My overall aim is to provide the best evidence-based level of care for my clients. I care about them and what they need. I work collaborative with clients to develop goals and how to achieve them. I also want to make certain that others the client cares about are included in our collaborative planning process. My ideal client is the one who I am working with at the time! I am Board Certified at the Doctorate level to provide therapies and biopsychosocial care for ages 13 years and throughout the lifespan. I use mindfulness and a calm atmosphere in order to meet individual, couple, family and even community needs.
(380) 212-2501 View (380) 212-2501
Photo of Maureen Chinyere Odemena, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maureen Chinyere Odemena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
My name is Maureen Odemena, I am a board certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with a total of 11 years' experience. I treat patients 12 years and older with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, amongst other things.
My name is Maureen Odemena, I am a board certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with a total of 11 years' experience. I treat patients 12 years and older with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, amongst other things.
(614) 683-4572 View (614) 683-4572
Photo of Ivana Balic - Keystone Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Keystone Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
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 Mark Tuvelle, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Tuvelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Delaware, OH 43015  (Online Only)
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and want to always 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 the patient's priorities are being addressed. I prioritize health promotion, patient education, and psychotherapy.
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and want to always 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 the patient's priorities are being addressed. I prioritize health promotion, patient education, and psychotherapy.
(380) 207-1922 View (380) 207-1922
Photo of Kinsey Reeves, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kinsey Reeves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell, OH 43065
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
(614) 953-6088 View (614) 953-6088
Photo of Dr. Justin Hendricks, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Justin Hendricks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Justin Hendricks, and my practice is Mirror Health, a virtual psychiatry clinic in Ohio. As a Christian provider, my ideal client seeks a holistic, faith-integrated approach to mental health. They may face anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and value the integration of physical, spiritual, and social well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes but need guidance to harness their strengths and set achievable goals. I provide a supportive environment that reflects their commitment to overall well-being, helping them move forward with a personalized, integrative plan.
My name is Dr. Justin Hendricks, and my practice is Mirror Health, a virtual psychiatry clinic in Ohio. As a Christian provider, my ideal client seeks a holistic, faith-integrated approach to mental health. They may face anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and value the integration of physical, spiritual, and social well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes but need guidance to harness their strengths and set achievable goals. I provide a supportive environment that reflects their commitment to overall well-being, helping them move forward with a personalized, integrative plan.
(614) 768-6236 View (614) 768-6236
Photo of Brittany Schmidt, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Schmidt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in women's mental health across the lifespan. My main focus in my nursing career has been within labor and delivery as well as postpartum. This gives me a unique perspective and experience when treating my patients. I will work together with you to find balance and support your unique mental health needs. I am available virtually, or in person, at Well Balanced Women giving you flexibility to prioritize your mental health care. I look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your mental health goals!
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in women's mental health across the lifespan. My main focus in my nursing career has been within labor and delivery as well as postpartum. This gives me a unique perspective and experience when treating my patients. I will work together with you to find balance and support your unique mental health needs. I am available virtually, or in person, at Well Balanced Women giving you flexibility to prioritize your mental health care. I look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your mental health goals!
(380) 227-3288 View (380) 227-3288
Lisa Bond
Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Not Verified Not Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
An RN for over 25 years, I have successfully completed intensive training through Behavioral Tech in DBTI am passionate about helping individuals, their families and supports using the evidence based principles and skills of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My enthusiasm for my work comes from seeing my clients experience relief from emotional suffering while they build mastery in making and keeping relationships, thrive in daily living, and build their lives in such a way as to make them worth embracing every day. In DBT we call this, "Having a Life Worth Living."
An RN for over 25 years, I have successfully completed intensive training through Behavioral Tech in DBTI am passionate about helping individuals, their families and supports using the evidence based principles and skills of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My enthusiasm for my work comes from seeing my clients experience relief from emotional suffering while they build mastery in making and keeping relationships, thrive in daily living, and build their lives in such a way as to make them worth embracing every day. In DBT we call this, "Having a Life Worth Living."
(740) 617-1032 View (740) 617-1032
Photo of Kerri Pearch, APRN, PMHNP, ENP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kerri Pearch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ENP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240  (Online Only)
Kerri Pearch is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMH-BC) with over 25 years nursing experience, including with Cleveland Clinic. She also holds certifications as a nurse practitioner in both family and emergency medicine. She has served as an adjunct professor at Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences and as a preceptor for Chamberlain University’s nurse practitioner program. Kerri's medical training has equipped her to provide excellent care and support to patients with chronic mental illnesses, cognitive impairment, and functional loss due to mental health issues.
Kerri Pearch is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMH-BC) with over 25 years nursing experience, including with Cleveland Clinic. She also holds certifications as a nurse practitioner in both family and emergency medicine. She has served as an adjunct professor at Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences and as a preceptor for Chamberlain University’s nurse practitioner program. Kerri's medical training has equipped her to provide excellent care and support to patients with chronic mental illnesses, cognitive impairment, and functional loss due to mental health issues.
(380) 600-8771 View (380) 600-8771
Photo of Adam Scott Brandemihl, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Adam Scott Brandemihl
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
(614) 929-6617 View (614) 929-6617

See more therapy options for Lewis Center

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lewis Center, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Lewis Center, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Trauma and PTSD
89% Anxiety
89% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
78% Medication Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Lewis Center, OH see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lewis Center?

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.