Psychiatrists in Logan, OH

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 John Aziz, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
John Aziz
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Logan, OH 43138
I’m a Quadruple board-certified psychiatrist with broad experience treating adolescents and adults across a wide range of mental health conditions. My clinical focus includes Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, and OCD. I have special interest in treating severe depression with TMS, Spravato and Ketamine injection, all of which have been proven to be very effective. I believe in a thoughtful, individualized approach to care—combining the state of the art, evidence-based medical treatment with a deep understanding of each patient’s unique experience.  My goal is to support your path to meaningful, lasting wellness.
I’m a Quadruple board-certified psychiatrist with broad experience treating adolescents and adults across a wide range of mental health conditions. My clinical focus includes Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, and OCD. I have special interest in treating severe depression with TMS, Spravato and Ketamine injection, all of which have been proven to be very effective. I believe in a thoughtful, individualized approach to care—combining the state of the art, evidence-based medical treatment with a deep understanding of each patient’s unique experience.  My goal is to support your path to meaningful, lasting wellness.
(740) 875-3250 View (740) 875-3250

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Katie Stanford - Harmony Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Harmony Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Athens, OH 45701
Accepting New Patients- Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers Spravato (esketamine) treatment, TMS, medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
Accepting New Patients- Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers Spravato (esketamine) treatment, TMS, medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
(740) 224-8976 View (740) 224-8976
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 Ashley Brugmann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Brugmann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health.
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health.
(330) 859-4824 View (330) 859-4824
Photo of Dr. Bethany Harper, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bethany Harper
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
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 Kelcie Fraley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Kelcie Fraley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
15 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 Emily Rees, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Emily Rees
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Not feeling your best self? Tired of struggling? Admitting that you need help and then seeking that help are tough things to do. So, kudos to you! You’re here and we are going to walk through this journey together. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a mental health disorder in the past or are looking for evaluation, I am here for you.
Not feeling your best self? Tired of struggling? Admitting that you need help and then seeking that help are tough things to do. So, kudos to you! You’re here and we are going to walk through this journey together. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a mental health disorder in the past or are looking for evaluation, I am here for you.
(740) 883-3996 View (740) 883-3996
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 Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10am until 8pm! 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 Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10am until 8pm! 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
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 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 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
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 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 Dr. Krishona Poignard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Dr. Krishona Poignard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Online Only
My goal as a clinician is to provide comprehensive empathetic care by setting a foundation of collaboration and trust. Every patient is dealing with their own set of symptoms, stressors, triggers, and overall goals for treatment. I ambition to explore all symptoms and provide information and education, employ appropriate and evidence based diagnostics, and establish both short and long term goals for optimal outcomes for mental health and/or substance abuse/addiction disorders. The wide range of treatment options from psychotherapy, behavioral management, and pharmacotherapy will be discussed and incorporated into the plan of care
My goal as a clinician is to provide comprehensive empathetic care by setting a foundation of collaboration and trust. Every patient is dealing with their own set of symptoms, stressors, triggers, and overall goals for treatment. I ambition to explore all symptoms and provide information and education, employ appropriate and evidence based diagnostics, and establish both short and long term goals for optimal outcomes for mental health and/or substance abuse/addiction disorders. The wide range of treatment options from psychotherapy, behavioral management, and pharmacotherapy will be discussed and incorporated into the plan of care
(513) 548-4120 View (513) 548-4120
Photo of Ashley Brugmann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Brugmann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience, a solid foundation from Ohio University, and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, my medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health, I excel at building strong patient relationships and creating individualized, evidence-based care plans. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new places, hiking, reading, and indulging in my love for interior design and all forms of art including body art. For exceptional mental health care, I am your trusted partner on the journey to wellness.
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience, a solid foundation from Ohio University, and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, my medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health, I excel at building strong patient relationships and creating individualized, evidence-based care plans. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new places, hiking, reading, and indulging in my love for interior design and all forms of art including body art. For exceptional mental health care, I am your trusted partner on the journey to wellness.
(330) 557-9792 View (330) 557-9792
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
Serves Area
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 Cindy L Dunkle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Cindy L Dunkle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
I specialize in adult (18+) mental health and wellness through assessment, diagnosis and treatment with education and medication management. People are the experts in recognizing their needs, so I encourage them to be active participants in their care through collaboration and by validating their feelings and lived experiences. I will do my best to help each person move forward to live their best life and appreciate the opportunity to be a part of each persons’ journey to wellness.
I specialize in adult (18+) mental health and wellness through assessment, diagnosis and treatment with education and medication management. People are the experts in recognizing their needs, so I encourage them to be active participants in their care through collaboration and by validating their feelings and lived experiences. I will do my best to help each person move forward to live their best life and appreciate the opportunity to be a part of each persons’ journey to wellness.
(740) 521-4319 View (740) 521-4319
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Athens, OH 45701
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119

See more therapy options for Logan

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Logan, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Logan, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Logan, OH see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Logan?

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.