Psychiatrists in Maineville, OH

Photo of Arrey Eyongherok, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Arrey Eyongherok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Arrey! I'm a mental health professional dedicated to supporting clients through life's challenges. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I work collaboratively with clients, drawing on evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs. Together we'll identify patterns, build on your strengths, and develop practical strategies for lasting change.
Hi there, I'm Arrey! I'm a mental health professional dedicated to supporting clients through life's challenges. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I work collaboratively with clients, drawing on evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs. Together we'll identify patterns, build on your strengths, and develop practical strategies for lasting change.
(440) 588-3127 View (440) 588-3127
Photo of Kylie Wester, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kylie Wester
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Maineville, OH 45039
Kylie works with adults who are tired of feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in survival mode. Many of her clients have tried to “just deal with it,” but know something needs to change. She helps people sort through symptoms, understand what may be driving them, and create a treatment plan that actually fits real life.
Kylie works with adults who are tired of feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in survival mode. Many of her clients have tried to “just deal with it,” but know something needs to change. She helps people sort through symptoms, understand what may be driving them, and create a treatment plan that actually fits real life.
(513) 957-2809 View (513) 957-2809
Photo of Judy Murua, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Judy Murua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in mental health across the lifespan. My approach to mental health is rooted in a holistic and patient-centered philosophy. I believe in integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that impact mental health.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in mental health across the lifespan. My approach to mental health is rooted in a holistic and patient-centered philosophy. I believe in integrating evidence-based practices with compassionate care, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that impact mental health.
(440) 586-4130 View (440) 586-4130
Photo of Amber Whitlatch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Amber Whitlatch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
16 Endorsed
Maineville, OH 45039
I help those seeking a deeper, lasting approach to mental health—someone who may have tried medication or therapy before but hasn’t found the right fit. They struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, or mood instability and want a provider who sees them as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. They are looking for a balance of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to feel better, regain control, and build resilience. Their goal is to heal, grow, and feel empowered in their mental health journey, using both science and holistic strategies to create real, sustainable change.
I help those seeking a deeper, lasting approach to mental health—someone who may have tried medication or therapy before but hasn’t found the right fit. They struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, or mood instability and want a provider who sees them as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. They are looking for a balance of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to feel better, regain control, and build resilience. Their goal is to heal, grow, and feel empowered in their mental health journey, using both science and holistic strategies to create real, sustainable change.
(513) 957-2809 View (513) 957-2809
Photo of Lillie Quarles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lillie Quarles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Lillie Quarles is a specialist in mental health caring for the adult patients with mental health needs at LifeStance in Mason Ohio. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Cincinnati. She received her master's degree from Excelsior College in New York. She received her post graduate certificate from Indian Weslyland University. She is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She has cared for the mental health adult population in both in-patient hospitals and out-patient practice.
Lillie Quarles is a specialist in mental health caring for the adult patients with mental health needs at LifeStance in Mason Ohio. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Cincinnati. She received her master's degree from Excelsior College in New York. She received her post graduate certificate from Indian Weslyland University. She is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She has cared for the mental health adult population in both in-patient hospitals and out-patient practice.
(513) 756-8762 View (513) 756-8762
Angela Brandt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Serves Area
Angela is especially passionate about supporting those affected by ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complex ways these conditions can impact daily life, relationships, and self-esteem, and she takes a compassionate, clinically informed approach to care. By integrating evidence-based tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness strategies into her medication management sessions, Angela helps patients build coping skills while managing their symptoms effectively.
Angela is especially passionate about supporting those affected by ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complex ways these conditions can impact daily life, relationships, and self-esteem, and she takes a compassionate, clinically informed approach to care. By integrating evidence-based tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness strategies into her medication management sessions, Angela helps patients build coping skills while managing their symptoms effectively.
(513) 224-6969 View (513) 224-6969
Photo of Dr. Rohan Patel, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Rohan Patel
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related conditions. His comprehensive understanding of both medicine and mental health allows him to address the mind-body connection, ensuring that treatment plans are both holistic and effective. He strives to create a collaborative environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their care. In his work, Dr. Patel is also passionate about helping individuals manage psychiatric symptoms related to medical conditions and life transitions.Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and a
Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related conditions. His comprehensive understanding of both medicine and mental health allows him to address the mind-body connection, ensuring that treatment plans are both holistic and effective. He strives to create a collaborative environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their care. In his work, Dr. Patel is also passionate about helping individuals manage psychiatric symptoms related to medical conditions and life transitions.Dr. Patel specializes in treating complex mood and a
(513) 935-2075 View (513) 935-2075
Photo of Mary Grace Tirey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Mary Grace Tirey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Grace has a strong clinical focus on ADHD, anxiety, and depression, helping patients manage symptoms that affect focus, mood, sleep, and overall quality of life. She provides medication management for complex mental health conditions and incorporates evidence-based approaches informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) principles to support insight, emotional regulation, and healthier coping strategies. In addition to these core areas, she offers care for a wide range of mental health concerns, including substance use disorders through medication-assisted treatment.Grace has a strong clinica
Grace has a strong clinical focus on ADHD, anxiety, and depression, helping patients manage symptoms that affect focus, mood, sleep, and overall quality of life. She provides medication management for complex mental health conditions and incorporates evidence-based approaches informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) principles to support insight, emotional regulation, and healthier coping strategies. In addition to these core areas, she offers care for a wide range of mental health concerns, including substance use disorders through medication-assisted treatment.Grace has a strong clinica
(513) 960-3698 View (513) 960-3698
Photo of Dr. Bakhtier Hasan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bakhtier Hasan
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Bakhtier is particularly passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital and those involved in court-ordered treatment. He understands that these transitions can feel overwhelming and require close clinical attention, structure, and consistency. His work in this area focuses on stabilization, medication optimization, and helping patients regain a sense of safety, autonomy, and direction during critical periods of recovery. In his broader practice, Dr.Dr. Bakhtier is particularly passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hosp
Dr. Bakhtier is particularly passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital and those involved in court-ordered treatment. He understands that these transitions can feel overwhelming and require close clinical attention, structure, and consistency. His work in this area focuses on stabilization, medication optimization, and helping patients regain a sense of safety, autonomy, and direction during critical periods of recovery. In his broader practice, Dr.Dr. Bakhtier is particularly passionate about supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hosp
(513) 756-2688 View (513) 756-2688

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Abbie Mills, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Abbie Mills
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Miamisburg, OH 45342
I work with my clients to meet their mental health goals with a holistic approach. I understand that mental health is influenced by various factors including physical health, environment, relationships and personal history. I provide a supportive, empathetic and non-judgmental space to explore and address mental health needs.
I work with my clients to meet their mental health goals with a holistic approach. I understand that mental health is influenced by various factors including physical health, environment, relationships and personal history. I provide a supportive, empathetic and non-judgmental space to explore and address mental health needs.
(937) 744-4718 View (937) 744-4718
Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS and IV Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS, and IV Therapy, we pride ourselves on our ability to change and impact lives in a healthy way. We believe it’s essential to invest in both your physical and mental well-being to enjoy a life full of joy, gratitude, and satisfaction. This belief guides our approach, including our services, teachings, and treatments. We are committed to providing you with exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. No matter why you’re visiting us, we offer comprehensive and excellent care. Curious to find out more? Get in touch with a member of our team today.
At Southwest Ohio Ketamine, TMS, and IV Therapy, we pride ourselves on our ability to change and impact lives in a healthy way. We believe it’s essential to invest in both your physical and mental well-being to enjoy a life full of joy, gratitude, and satisfaction. This belief guides our approach, including our services, teachings, and treatments. We are committed to providing you with exceptional care in a compassionate and friendly atmosphere. No matter why you’re visiting us, we offer comprehensive and excellent care. Curious to find out more? Get in touch with a member of our team today.
(937) 828-4586 View (937) 828-4586
Photo of Linda Kimble, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Linda Kimble
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a nurse practitioner with many year's experience I strive to develop a relationship with my patients and to provide collaborative care between my patient and myself. I focus on listening to my clients and providing supportive care and empathy as well as quality medication management in an effort to relieve their symptoms and help them to be able to function at their desired level of functioning. I strive to help them set realistic goals, understand themselves, and to reach their full mental health potential. I have been a nurse in every level from LPN to MSN to Post Master MSN.
As a nurse practitioner with many year's experience I strive to develop a relationship with my patients and to provide collaborative care between my patient and myself. I focus on listening to my clients and providing supportive care and empathy as well as quality medication management in an effort to relieve their symptoms and help them to be able to function at their desired level of functioning. I strive to help them set realistic goals, understand themselves, and to reach their full mental health potential. I have been a nurse in every level from LPN to MSN to Post Master MSN.
(234) 231-8022 View (234) 231-8022
Photo of Ericka R. Igbonegun - Optimum Victory Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Optimum Victory Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. I am Ericka Igbonegun, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I provide evidence-based virtual psychiatric care for adults in Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Arizona. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, perinatal depression, and women's mental health concerns. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and personalized treatment plans, I help patients achieve improved mental wellness and a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. I am Ericka Igbonegun, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I provide evidence-based virtual psychiatric care for adults in Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Arizona. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, perinatal depression, and women's mental health concerns. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and personalized treatment plans, I help patients achieve improved mental wellness and a more balanced, fulfilling life.
(513) 848-3761 View (513) 848-3761
Photo of Dr. Reyna Gilmore - Restore at A Ray of Hope / Addiction/Counseling, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD
Restore at A Ray of Hope / Addiction/Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD
Batavia, OH 45103
Building Hope and Love for those affected by mental illness and addiction
Building Hope and Love for those affected by mental illness and addiction
(513) 995-1769 View (513) 995-1769
Photo of Jasmine Shafto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jasmine Shafto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Cincinnati, OH 45207
Jasmine Shafto is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified in behavioral health by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Kentucky and Ohio. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northern Kentucky University and her master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati. She has provided psychiatric nursing services for more than 15 years in inpatient, outpatient, and community behavioral healthcare settings. Her scope of practice includes individuals 13 years of age and older.
Jasmine Shafto is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified in behavioral health by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Kentucky and Ohio. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northern Kentucky University and her master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati. She has provided psychiatric nursing services for more than 15 years in inpatient, outpatient, and community behavioral healthcare settings. Her scope of practice includes individuals 13 years of age and older.
(513) 916-4170 View (513) 916-4170
Photo of Melissa Cetone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melissa Cetone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Melissa Cetone. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice areas of focus are depression, anxiety ( using non-addictive medications), post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorders, attention deficit disorders, and schizophrenia. I incorporate psychological, biological, and social factors into my approach to providing mental health care. I have a strong background working with patients diagnosed with mood disorders. I’m comfortable treating depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar, and schizoaffective disorder.
Hello! My name is Melissa Cetone. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice areas of focus are depression, anxiety ( using non-addictive medications), post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorders, attention deficit disorders, and schizophrenia. I incorporate psychological, biological, and social factors into my approach to providing mental health care. I have a strong background working with patients diagnosed with mood disorders. I’m comfortable treating depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar, and schizoaffective disorder.
(440) 588-3125 View (440) 588-3125
Photo of Jo Ann Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jo Ann Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jo Ann Brown. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy; both are gold standards for mental health wellbeing. My areas of experience include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Alcohol Use Disorders. My approach to practice is characterized by a holistic approach. I understand optimum mental health wellbeing are about implementing a long-term plan for life. I use evidence-based CBT and Motivational Interviewing to help people modify their thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health.
Hello, my name is Jo Ann Brown. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy; both are gold standards for mental health wellbeing. My areas of experience include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Alcohol Use Disorders. My approach to practice is characterized by a holistic approach. I understand optimum mental health wellbeing are about implementing a long-term plan for life. I use evidence-based CBT and Motivational Interviewing to help people modify their thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health.
(513) 848-3910 View (513) 848-3910
Photo of Sheena Witmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sheena Witmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in Women's health and Psychiatric Mental health.
Hello, I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in Women's health and Psychiatric Mental health.
(567) 347-1714 View (567) 347-1714
Photo of Keshia Nichole Jordan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC
Keshia Nichole Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC
Hamilton, OH 45011
At Most Hope Treatment Center, we will help our clients with their mental health and addiction needs by providing convenient, compassionate, care and making their success the number one priority at our practice.
At Most Hope Treatment Center, we will help our clients with their mental health and addiction needs by providing convenient, compassionate, care and making their success the number one priority at our practice.
(513) 654-6327 View (513) 654-6327
Photo of Dr. Siddharth Arora, Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Dr. Siddharth Arora
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Cincinnati, OH 45206
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
(513) 676-4920 View (513) 676-4920

See more therapy options for Maineville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Maineville, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Maineville, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
78% Grief
67% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Optum
100% Carelon Behavioral Health

How Psychiatrists in Maineville, OH see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Maineville?

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.