Psychiatrists in Marion, OH

Photo of Jodie Knodell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jodie Knodell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marion, OH 43302
Hi, I’m Jodie. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to create a comfortable and supportive environment where you can feel at ease discussing your mental health concerns. Along with my years of experience, I bring my beloved therapy dog, Murphy, to our sessions. Murphy’s calming presence helps create a space for you to feel relaxed and open to discussing your concerns.
Hi, I’m Jodie. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I strive to create a comfortable and supportive environment where you can feel at ease discussing your mental health concerns. Along with my years of experience, I bring my beloved therapy dog, Murphy, to our sessions. Murphy’s calming presence helps create a space for you to feel relaxed and open to discussing your concerns.
(740) 265-2365 View (740) 265-2365
Photo of Nenneh Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nenneh Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marion, OH 43302
Hi, I’m Nenneh Davies, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep commitment to helping individuals of all ages find balance and healing through personalized medication management. I have many years of experience working in both adolescent and adult mental health care, and I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the complexities of mental health challenges. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, psychotic disorders, or other concerns, I’m here to work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Hi, I’m Nenneh Davies, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep commitment to helping individuals of all ages find balance and healing through personalized medication management. I have many years of experience working in both adolescent and adult mental health care, and I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the complexities of mental health challenges. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, psychotic disorders, or other concerns, I’m here to work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(740) 617-0320 View (740) 617-0320
Photo of Harriet Bomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Harriet Bomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello. My name is Harriet Bomas, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner working with Brightside Health offering excellent online therapy and medication management. I am licensed in Ohio, Utah, Florida, Indiana, Michigan and New York. Please visit Brightside Health online. This is a welcoming and comfortable virtual practice.
Hello. My name is Harriet Bomas, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner working with Brightside Health offering excellent online therapy and medication management. I am licensed in Ohio, Utah, Florida, Indiana, Michigan and New York. Please visit Brightside Health online. This is a welcoming and comfortable virtual practice.

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Taylor Buck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNPBC
Taylor Buck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
As a dedicated PMHNP, I offer a holistic and evidence-based approach to patient care, for persons seeking help with mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Recognizing the complexity of mental health, I emphasize understanding each individual's unique needs and preferences to develop personalized treatment plans. My treatment style includes open communication and teamwork, where patients are active participants in their healing journey. Together, we navigate through challenges, explore therapeutic interventions, and optimize medication regimens to achieve sustainable improvement in mental health.
As a dedicated PMHNP, I offer a holistic and evidence-based approach to patient care, for persons seeking help with mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Recognizing the complexity of mental health, I emphasize understanding each individual's unique needs and preferences to develop personalized treatment plans. My treatment style includes open communication and teamwork, where patients are active participants in their healing journey. Together, we navigate through challenges, explore therapeutic interventions, and optimize medication regimens to achieve sustainable improvement in mental health.
(614) 591-8516 View (614) 591-8516
Photo of Michele Huffman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Michele Huffman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood disorders? You don’t have to face it alone. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care, combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle guidance tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to help you regain control, improve daily functioning, and build resilience so you can experience clarity, relief, and empowerment. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready for change, I’m here to help you find balance and live a more fulfilling life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood disorders? You don’t have to face it alone. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care, combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle guidance tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to help you regain control, improve daily functioning, and build resilience so you can experience clarity, relief, and empowerment. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready for change, I’m here to help you find balance and live a more fulfilling life.
(614) 963-8855 View (614) 963-8855
Photo of Dr. Kim Nguyen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kim Nguyen
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Optimal mental health is the goal, not just the absence of disease. The body, mind, and environment operate as a whole. You can’t treat a symptom without addressing the root cause. Extra time allows me to be thorough, listen to your story without interrupting, and discuss treatment plans in detail. This allows me to provide higher quality care and enables you to feel heard and understood in a way you may never have felt before.
Optimal mental health is the goal, not just the absence of disease. The body, mind, and environment operate as a whole. You can’t treat a symptom without addressing the root cause. Extra time allows me to be thorough, listen to your story without interrupting, and discuss treatment plans in detail. This allows me to provide higher quality care and enables you to feel heard and understood in a way you may never have felt before.
(330) 302-3092 View (330) 302-3092
Photo of Kathryn Hendricks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Kathryn Hendricks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
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
Ardent Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BS
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 Kathryn Hendricks - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(380) 246-4984 View (380) 246-4984
Photo of Ndematelen Asong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ndematelen Asong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as a nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She worked as a registered nurse and noted an increased need for behavioral health providers. She felt she could help make behavioral health care more accessible; she therefore, returned to school at Maryville University and obtained an MSN in Psychiatry.
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as a nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She worked as a registered nurse and noted an increased need for behavioral health providers. She felt she could help make behavioral health care more accessible; she therefore, returned to school at Maryville University and obtained an MSN in Psychiatry.
(740) 842-8182 View (740) 842-8182
Photo of Mark Tuvelle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Mark Tuvelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
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 Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Delaware, OH 43015
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 Christine Boysel - Meaningful Believable Solutions LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
Meaningful Believable Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We understand the profound impact of mental health disorders and the challenges they pose. Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, we’re here to support you every step of the way with the best treatment practices and personalized care.
We understand the profound impact of mental health disorders and the challenges they pose. Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, we’re here to support you every step of the way with the best treatment practices and personalized care.
(937) 826-3552 View (937) 826-3552
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Delaware, OH 43015
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 Ian Marconi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-
Ian Marconi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-
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 Barbara Jones Warren, Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, PMH-BC, FNAP, FAAN
Barbara Jones Warren
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, PMH-BC, FNAP, FAAN
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 Brandy Smith - Marching On Pediatric Mental Health Care, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
Marching On Pediatric Mental Health Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
Online Only
Providing exceptional mental health care to the pediatric population is my number one goal. Continuing to break the stigma associated with mental health, I'm a non-judgemental listening ear and strive to help children reach their true potential. Specializing in pediatric trauma, I not only can help with medication management, but also provide resources to ensure your child is receiving a well-rounded treatment approach.
Providing exceptional mental health care to the pediatric population is my number one goal. Continuing to break the stigma associated with mental health, I'm a non-judgemental listening ear and strive to help children reach their true potential. Specializing in pediatric trauma, I not only can help with medication management, but also provide resources to ensure your child is receiving a well-rounded treatment approach.
(937) 731-3014 View (937) 731-3014
Photo of Stacey Molle - Spectrum Mental Health Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LISW
Spectrum Mental Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LISW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are now accepting clients in Columbus and Bowling Green! What does S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. stand for? Safety. Pride. Education. Compassion. Truth. Respect. Unity. Mindfulness. Spectrum specializes in providing mental health and wellness services in an open, non-judgemental, AND affordable delivery model. We think outside of the box and tailor care to the individual. We pride ourselves on our affirming, holistic approach.
We are now accepting clients in Columbus and Bowling Green! What does S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. stand for? Safety. Pride. Education. Compassion. Truth. Respect. Unity. Mindfulness. Spectrum specializes in providing mental health and wellness services in an open, non-judgemental, AND affordable delivery model. We think outside of the box and tailor care to the individual. We pride ourselves on our affirming, holistic approach.
(380) 212-2520 View (380) 212-2520
Photo of Brittany Schmidt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Brittany Schmidt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in women's mental health across the lifespan. This includes preconception, pregnancy, postpartum, motherhood, and the transition through perimenopause. 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. The only regret you might have is that you didn't find me sooner. 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. This includes preconception, pregnancy, postpartum, motherhood, and the transition through perimenopause. 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. The only regret you might have is that you didn't find me sooner. I look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your mental health goals!
(380) 227-3288 View (380) 227-3288
Photo of Edan 'doctor G' Gilat, Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, NBPAS
Edan 'doctor G' Gilat
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, NBPAS
Online Only
As a psychiatrist, I have the opportunity to help others achieve their own personal aspirations whether it be in the domain profession, academics and/or relationships. I believe that each individual is unique and that the frustrations that he or she encounters in the pursuit of his or her dreams likely arise from past experiences, current environment, skill sets and also biology. I find the experience of diagnosing and treating adult ADHD especially rewarding as this condition is under diagnosed and is often effectively addressed with the correct medications and skills training.
As a psychiatrist, I have the opportunity to help others achieve their own personal aspirations whether it be in the domain profession, academics and/or relationships. I believe that each individual is unique and that the frustrations that he or she encounters in the pursuit of his or her dreams likely arise from past experiences, current environment, skill sets and also biology. I find the experience of diagnosing and treating adult ADHD especially rewarding as this condition is under diagnosed and is often effectively addressed with the correct medications and skills training.
(740) 831-3381 View (740) 831-3381

See more therapy options for Marion

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Marion, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Marion, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
67% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Psychosis
67% Anger Management

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana

How Psychiatrists in Marion, OH see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Marion?

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.