Psychiatrists in Marysville, OH

Matthew Hauenstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Marysville, OH 43040
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to empowering individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. My practice is built on the belief that every person deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. I specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based care to adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and other mental health concerns. What sets me apart is my holistic approach, blending advanced clinical expertise with genuine empathy.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to empowering individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. My practice is built on the belief that every person deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. I specialize in providing personalized, evidence-based care to adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and other mental health concerns. What sets me apart is my holistic approach, blending advanced clinical expertise with genuine empathy.
(937) 358-6746 View (937) 358-6746
Michael W Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MBA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, sleep disturbances, and personality disorders. My approach to care is deeply patient-centered, where compassion, empathy, and respect are the cornerstones of every interaction. In our initial 60-minute session, I conduct a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including a diagnostic assessment and the creation of a personalized treatment plan. Our follow-up appointments, which are typically 30 minutes, focus on medication management and integrated psychotherapy.
I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, sleep disturbances, and personality disorders. My approach to care is deeply patient-centered, where compassion, empathy, and respect are the cornerstones of every interaction. In our initial 60-minute session, I conduct a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including a diagnostic assessment and the creation of a personalized treatment plan. Our follow-up appointments, which are typically 30 minutes, focus on medication management and integrated psychotherapy.
(937) 870-2380 View (937) 870-2380
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
Christine Boysel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
Marysville, OH 43040
Mental health disorders have a heavy impact on individuals and their families. They can leave you or your loved ones feeling disconnected and exhausted, but you do not have to navigate this on your own. Many individuals and families come to our practice seeking a safe space to breathe, process, and finally be heard. Your journey is our journey. Through evidence-based practices and a holistic approach that supports your mental, emotional, and spiritual needs, we create clarity and help you get to the root of the problem. Clarity is real. It gives you a sense of relief and hope for lasting healing.
Mental health disorders have a heavy impact on individuals and their families. They can leave you or your loved ones feeling disconnected and exhausted, but you do not have to navigate this on your own. Many individuals and families come to our practice seeking a safe space to breathe, process, and finally be heard. Your journey is our journey. Through evidence-based practices and a holistic approach that supports your mental, emotional, and spiritual needs, we create clarity and help you get to the root of the problem. Clarity is real. It gives you a sense of relief and hope for lasting healing.
(937) 826-3552 View (937) 826-3552

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Gabriel Jeu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Gabriel Jeu, and I completed my education at The Ohio State University before working in community mental health for 5+ years in the Cleveland, Ohio area, where I gained an incredible variety of experience and expertise working clients with mental health problems of all kinds and from all backgrounds. From non-functional individuals suffering from schizophrenia to busy professionals and students feeling suffering from ADHD or burn out, to refugees with PTSD rebuilding their lives, I have seen it all.
Hello! My name is Gabriel Jeu, and I completed my education at The Ohio State University before working in community mental health for 5+ years in the Cleveland, Ohio area, where I gained an incredible variety of experience and expertise working clients with mental health problems of all kinds and from all backgrounds. From non-functional individuals suffering from schizophrenia to busy professionals and students feeling suffering from ADHD or burn out, to refugees with PTSD rebuilding their lives, I have seen it all.
(440) 291-5848 View (440) 291-5848
Omotola T'sarumi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Omotola T'sarumi, MD is a psychiatrist and accepts multiple insurance plans.
Dr. Omotola T'sarumi, MD is a psychiatrist and accepts multiple insurance plans.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Nytisha Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Nytisha Smith is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, Ohio. She attended Case Western University, where she obtained her degree as a registered nurse and her Master's degree for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification. She now practices full-time, and works with patients between the ages of 13-40 to treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Nytisha uses a combination of medication management and psychotherapy to make sure that her patients have a well-balanced care plan that they feel good about. She likes for her patients to feel as though she is a partner in their care.
Nytisha Smith is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cleveland, Ohio. She attended Case Western University, where she obtained her degree as a registered nurse and her Master's degree for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification. She now practices full-time, and works with patients between the ages of 13-40 to treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Nytisha uses a combination of medication management and psychotherapy to make sure that her patients have a well-balanced care plan that they feel good about. She likes for her patients to feel as though she is a partner in their care.
(216) 677-1601 View (216) 677-1601
Michele Huffman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), my philosophy of care is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a holistic approach to wellness. I believe in treating every patient as a unique individual, addressing not only their physical health but also their mental and emotional well-being.
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), my philosophy of care is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a holistic approach to wellness. I believe in treating every patient as a unique individual, addressing not only their physical health but also their mental and emotional well-being.
(253) 323-4299 View (253) 323-4299
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Serves Area
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.
(330) 708-7210 View (330) 708-7210
Dr. Ryan Wade
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hi, I am Ryan Wade, a psychiatrist board certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. I completed medical school and my Psychiatry residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School, followed by an Addiction Psychiatry fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine. Despite my training in the addiction field, I spend a large portion of my time focusing on mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. I find that I typically work most with people who want to consolidate their medication regimen or those who view medication as a tool, not solely the solution to the issues they are facing.
Hi, I am Ryan Wade, a psychiatrist board certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. I completed medical school and my Psychiatry residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School, followed by an Addiction Psychiatry fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine. Despite my training in the addiction field, I spend a large portion of my time focusing on mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. I find that I typically work most with people who want to consolidate their medication regimen or those who view medication as a tool, not solely the solution to the issues they are facing.
(614) 810-7567 View (614) 810-7567
Melissa Lopez-Larson
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Seeing patients in person at her Independence, Ohio office. Now offering advanced treatments including TMS, Ketamine psychotherapy and Spravato. Telepsychiatry also available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
Seeing patients in person at her Independence, Ohio office. Now offering advanced treatments including TMS, Ketamine psychotherapy and Spravato. Telepsychiatry also available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
(216) 626-7742 View (216) 626-7742
Dr. Jeaninea Pilar Bare
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Pilar Bare is an adult psychiatrist who completed her psychiatry residency at TriStar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, where she served as Chief Resident. She earned her medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest in Oregon, where she studied osteopathic medicine which shaped her holistic view of health. She completed an intern year in Family Medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences West. She holds a bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology from the University of Arkansas, where she graduated with honors.
Dr. Pilar Bare is an adult psychiatrist who completed her psychiatry residency at TriStar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, where she served as Chief Resident. She earned her medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest in Oregon, where she studied osteopathic medicine which shaped her holistic view of health. She completed an intern year in Family Medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences West. She holds a bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology from the University of Arkansas, where she graduated with honors.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Dr. Eddiel Cruz Hernández
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Eddiel Cruz-Hernandez is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist with experience across outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and consultation-liaison settings. He completed his psychiatry residency at East Carolina University and earned his medical degree from Ponce Health Sciences University in Puerto Rico. Prior to medicine, he studied chemical engineering at the University of Puerto Rico, MayagĂĽez, shaping his structured clinical approach. He is fluent in English and Spanish. Dr. Cruz-Hernandez creates a calm, respectful space where patients feel comfortable speaking openly.
Dr. Eddiel Cruz-Hernandez is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist with experience across outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and consultation-liaison settings. He completed his psychiatry residency at East Carolina University and earned his medical degree from Ponce Health Sciences University in Puerto Rico. Prior to medicine, he studied chemical engineering at the University of Puerto Rico, MayagĂĽez, shaping his structured clinical approach. He is fluent in English and Spanish. Dr. Cruz-Hernandez creates a calm, respectful space where patients feel comfortable speaking openly.
(740) 480-3577 View (740) 480-3577
Dr. Columban Heo
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Columban Heo is a board-certified psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the quality of life of his patients. He received his medical degree from Touro University Nevada and residency training from Unity Health White County Medical Center. He went on to complete a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic, where he became well-versed in working with multidisciplinary healthcare teams and treating psychiatric patients with complex medical conditions. Dr. Heo specializes in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to, mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Columban Heo is a board-certified psychiatrist who is dedicated to improving the quality of life of his patients. He received his medical degree from Touro University Nevada and residency training from Unity Health White County Medical Center. He went on to complete a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic, where he became well-versed in working with multidisciplinary healthcare teams and treating psychiatric patients with complex medical conditions. Dr. Heo specializes in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions including, but not limited to, mood and anxiety disorders.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Christopher Sobecki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Columbus, OH 43219
Chris Sobecki is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been working in the behavioral and mental health field since 2019. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University and earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. He is passionate about providing comprehensive behavioral and mental health services to the pediatric, adolescent and young adult populations. He engages with patients and their families to assess and develop strategies to overcome barriers.
Chris Sobecki is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been working in the behavioral and mental health field since 2019. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University and earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. He is passionate about providing comprehensive behavioral and mental health services to the pediatric, adolescent and young adult populations. He engages with patients and their families to assess and develop strategies to overcome barriers.
(740) 715-3780 View (740) 715-3780
Dr. Michelle Monro
Psychiatrist, DO
Columbus, OH 43219
She has a strong clinical focus on supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital, providing continuity of care during a critical transition period. Michelle is passionate about helping patients regain a sense of safety, rebuild daily functioning, and reduce the risk of relapse through structured support, compassionate guidance, and close monitoring. Her approach emphasizes stabilization, resilience-building, and long-term recovery. In her broader practice, Dr.She has a strong clinical focus on supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital, providing conti
She has a strong clinical focus on supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital, providing continuity of care during a critical transition period. Michelle is passionate about helping patients regain a sense of safety, rebuild daily functioning, and reduce the risk of relapse through structured support, compassionate guidance, and close monitoring. Her approach emphasizes stabilization, resilience-building, and long-term recovery. In her broader practice, Dr.She has a strong clinical focus on supporting individuals who have been recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital, providing conti
(740) 327-8903 View (740) 327-8903
Dr. Amy Mattern
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Mattern is board certified in Adult psychiatry. Her approach to mental health is integrative, with utilization of complementary and alternative treatments such as yoga, lifestyle changes, and nutritional interventions in addition to traditional medication management and therapy. Dr. Mattern prefers to focus on the overall health and well-being of an individual, rather than just treating symptoms. Dr. Mattern’s practice focuses on medication management along with elements of therapy from different modalities, such as supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy that are patient-tailored.
Dr. Mattern is board certified in Adult psychiatry. Her approach to mental health is integrative, with utilization of complementary and alternative treatments such as yoga, lifestyle changes, and nutritional interventions in addition to traditional medication management and therapy. Dr. Mattern prefers to focus on the overall health and well-being of an individual, rather than just treating symptoms. Dr. Mattern’s practice focuses on medication management along with elements of therapy from different modalities, such as supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy that are patient-tailored.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Nicole Rausch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in supporting those with past traumatic experiences, including but not limited to firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and veterans—who face the mental toll of trauma, stress, and burnout. I understand the unique challenges of this work: the pressure to stay strong, the stigma around asking for help, and the detrimental impact on relationships and sleep. My goal is to create a safe, confidential space where you can be heard without judgment. Together, we will focus on practical strategies to manage everyday life so you can feel grounded, connected, and in control again.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in supporting those with past traumatic experiences, including but not limited to firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and veterans—who face the mental toll of trauma, stress, and burnout. I understand the unique challenges of this work: the pressure to stay strong, the stigma around asking for help, and the detrimental impact on relationships and sleep. My goal is to create a safe, confidential space where you can be heard without judgment. Together, we will focus on practical strategies to manage everyday life so you can feel grounded, connected, and in control again.
(614) 908-4728 View (614) 908-4728
Justin Kerr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner trained to diagnose and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders in adults. My areas of strength include the care of people with mood, anxiety, and/or trauma-related disorders. Clients who are interested in seeing me may have a goal of exploring traditional psychiatric medications for symptom management, interested in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) and/or receive brief psychotherapy. I am experienced in facilitating individual and group KAP sessions. I legally cannot prescribe stimulants, but can be consulted for treatment.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner trained to diagnose and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders in adults. My areas of strength include the care of people with mood, anxiety, and/or trauma-related disorders. Clients who are interested in seeing me may have a goal of exploring traditional psychiatric medications for symptom management, interested in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) and/or receive brief psychotherapy. I am experienced in facilitating individual and group KAP sessions. I legally cannot prescribe stimulants, but can be consulted for treatment.
(380) 201-9015 View (380) 201-9015

See more therapy options for Marysville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Marysville, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Marysville, OH who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Marysville, OH see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Marysville?

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.