Psychiatrists in Maumee, OH

Photo of Michelle Fuhr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP
Michelle Fuhr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Maumee, OH 43537
I enjoy working with individuals from 16 years old to aging adults. Working in healthcare for so many years, I understand the struggles of the things we carry and tuck under the rug which really gives me a strong passion for helping healthcare workers and giving back to that community. I also have a strong passion for military, minorities, adopted, and LGTBQ+ communities. But really, I want to help everyone I can. I want everyone to feel like their best self and enjoy life to the fullest.
I enjoy working with individuals from 16 years old to aging adults. Working in healthcare for so many years, I understand the struggles of the things we carry and tuck under the rug which really gives me a strong passion for helping healthcare workers and giving back to that community. I also have a strong passion for military, minorities, adopted, and LGTBQ+ communities. But really, I want to help everyone I can. I want everyone to feel like their best self and enjoy life to the fullest.
(419) 374-9521 View (419) 374-9521
Photo of Fanta Beretay, Psychiatric Nurse
Fanta Beretay
Psychiatric Nurse
Verified Verified
Online Only
Is your anxiety , depression,ADHD or mood swings preventing you from living a fulfilling life and or accomplishing your personal/relationship goals? I assist individuals with managing their anxiety/depression/mood/ADHD /ADD with medication treatment options based on a combination of mental health treatment guidelines and my expertise that are proven to be effective. With over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings
Is your anxiety , depression,ADHD or mood swings preventing you from living a fulfilling life and or accomplishing your personal/relationship goals? I assist individuals with managing their anxiety/depression/mood/ADHD /ADD with medication treatment options based on a combination of mental health treatment guidelines and my expertise that are proven to be effective. With over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings
(513) 496-3565 View (513) 496-3565
Photo of Tiffiny Wicks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffiny Wicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to offering holistic, client-centered care to individuals aged 6 and up. I believe in putting my clients at the center of their treatment, collaborating closely with them to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Each plan is thoughtfully tailored to address the unique needs of the individual. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together to improve their mental health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to offering holistic, client-centered care to individuals aged 6 and up. I believe in putting my clients at the center of their treatment, collaborating closely with them to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Each plan is thoughtfully tailored to address the unique needs of the individual. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together to improve their mental health.
(419) 658-7853 View (419) 658-7853

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Arrey Eyongherok, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arrey Eyongherok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Arrey Eyongherok is a Doctoral prepared nurse practitioner (DNP) who graduated with Honors and has over 8 years of diverse experience with areas of expertise in Family/Primary Care, Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, & Mental Health Disorders/ Dual Diagnoses/Psychotherapies. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees both children and adults (ages 0 to 100 years old) as well as pregnant women
Arrey Eyongherok is a Doctoral prepared nurse practitioner (DNP) who graduated with Honors and has over 8 years of diverse experience with areas of expertise in Family/Primary Care, Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, & Mental Health Disorders/ Dual Diagnoses/Psychotherapies. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees both children and adults (ages 0 to 100 years old) as well as pregnant women
(740) 204-7116 View (740) 204-7116
Photo of Andrea Balluch-Dean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Andrea Balluch-Dean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. I presume you found my profile because you are seeking to make a positive change in your life? I applaud your efforts. Taking the first step on your path to wellness is the most important, and for some, the most intimidating. Lets face it, it’s not easy to open up to a total stranger about your mental health needs. That’s why it is important to find a mental health clinician with whom you can connect. A clinician who possesses the qualities and skills essential to developing and growing a therapeutic relationship with you.
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. I presume you found my profile because you are seeking to make a positive change in your life? I applaud your efforts. Taking the first step on your path to wellness is the most important, and for some, the most intimidating. Lets face it, it’s not easy to open up to a total stranger about your mental health needs. That’s why it is important to find a mental health clinician with whom you can connect. A clinician who possesses the qualities and skills essential to developing and growing a therapeutic relationship with you.
(513) 643-1325 View (513) 643-1325
Photo of Kayla Jordan Peters, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kayla Jordan Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43623
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I began my career as a nurse in Pediatrics and Pediatric Oncology before making the switch over to mental health. I love working with all ages, with a particular interest in children and adolescents, ages 7+ with mood disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and OCD. I believe in using a therapeutic approach to develop individualized plans of care with each patient based on their specific goals. This includes medication management and collaboration with the treatment team.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I began my career as a nurse in Pediatrics and Pediatric Oncology before making the switch over to mental health. I love working with all ages, with a particular interest in children and adolescents, ages 7+ with mood disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and OCD. I believe in using a therapeutic approach to develop individualized plans of care with each patient based on their specific goals. This includes medication management and collaboration with the treatment team.
(419) 780-6355 View (419) 780-6355
Photo of Michelle McBride, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Michelle McBride
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Michelle is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. Her primary goal is to offer compassionate, individualized care that empowers clients to navigate life’s challenges and achieve a sense of balance. She believes in developing personalized treatment plans that cater to each person’s unique needs, helping them take control of their mental health and feel supported throughout their journey.
Michelle is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. Her primary goal is to offer compassionate, individualized care that empowers clients to navigate life’s challenges and achieve a sense of balance. She believes in developing personalized treatment plans that cater to each person’s unique needs, helping them take control of their mental health and feel supported throughout their journey.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43615
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
Photo of Tameshia Wiggins - Evolve Mental Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Evolve Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43614
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
(419) 938-4259 View (419) 938-4259
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
Perrysburg, OH 43551
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(614) 482-1972 View (614) 482-1972
Photo of Dr. Karen Harris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FAAN
Dr. Karen Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FAAN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
When you are hurting and unable to focus due to anxiety, depression, addiction or whatever the problem, be it your own or someone else's, you want relief. Contact me, I am here to help. You are not alone. I want to help you navigate to your best form possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I feel your pain and I am here to help. Book a session with me today.
When you are hurting and unable to focus due to anxiety, depression, addiction or whatever the problem, be it your own or someone else's, you want relief. Contact me, I am here to help. You are not alone. I want to help you navigate to your best form possible. Partnering with you to create avenues to breath, drive, relate and be heard. I feel your pain and I am here to help. Book a session with me today.
(513) 613-9783 View (513) 613-9783
Photo of Dr. Shazia J. Naqvi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Shazia J. Naqvi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Shazia Naqvi, a board-certified adult psychiatrist with years of experience serving the state of Ohio. I am deeply passionate about my work and committed to providing evidence-based, high-quality care to my patients. I take a holistic approach to addressing their concerns, ensuring that we collaborate closely to create personalized treatment plans for their well-being.
I am Dr. Shazia Naqvi, a board-certified adult psychiatrist with years of experience serving the state of Ohio. I am deeply passionate about my work and committed to providing evidence-based, high-quality care to my patients. I take a holistic approach to addressing their concerns, ensuring that we collaborate closely to create personalized treatment plans for their well-being.
(419) 780-3382 View (419) 780-3382
Photo of Kevin Atwell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kevin Atwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m Kevin Atwell, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia. Before becoming a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, I had a variety of roles, including youth counselor for adolescents with autism, advocate for homeless women, and direct support professional for men with developmental disabilities.
I’m Kevin Atwell, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia. Before becoming a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, I had a variety of roles, including youth counselor for adolescents with autism, advocate for homeless women, and direct support professional for men with developmental disabilities.
(216) 516-7087 View (216) 516-7087
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and holistically treated and cared for. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and holistically treated and cared for. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
(513) 434-6732 View (513) 434-6732
Photo of LaTisha Lindley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
LaTisha Lindley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) offering care to both adults and youth. My background includes Adult and Pediatric behavioral health, along with treatment for addiction/substance use. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, sleep disorders, or bipolar, I am here to help. I am here to help you improve you daily functioning and come up with a plan that best fits you.
Hello! I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) offering care to both adults and youth. My background includes Adult and Pediatric behavioral health, along with treatment for addiction/substance use. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, sleep disorders, or bipolar, I am here to help. I am here to help you improve you daily functioning and come up with a plan that best fits you.
(567) 749-6159 View (567) 749-6159
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Perrysburg, OH 43551
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(614) 802-6152 View (614) 802-6152
Photo of Erin Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
Erin Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
(513) 647-2182 View (513) 647-2182
Photo of Brooke Palicki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Brooke Palicki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Thank you to all who have tried to contact me so far! I am not up and running quite yet...but I will be soon. I am keeping track of those who have contacted me, and I will connect with you soon. Stay tuned. Right now, I am able to update what insurance I take often and to let you know...it is changing all the time since I'm getting started, so do not worry, I will try my best to get you seen!
Thank you to all who have tried to contact me so far! I am not up and running quite yet...but I will be soon. I am keeping track of those who have contacted me, and I will connect with you soon. Stay tuned. Right now, I am able to update what insurance I take often and to let you know...it is changing all the time since I'm getting started, so do not worry, I will try my best to get you seen!
(419) 863-3535 View (419) 863-3535
Photo of Ebrima Jatta, Psychiatric Nurse
Ebrima Jatta
Psychiatric Nurse
Verified Verified
Online Only
Ebrima is a Board-Certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to patients ages 14+. Ebrima is a highly motivated, skilled, and qualified professional backed by 3+ years of provider service in mental health and addiction coupled with 15+ years of RN experience and a proven ability to deliver evidence-based care for patients across the lifespan with a broad range of physical and mental health needs.
Ebrima is a Board-Certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to patients ages 14+. Ebrima is a highly motivated, skilled, and qualified professional backed by 3+ years of provider service in mental health and addiction coupled with 15+ years of RN experience and a proven ability to deliver evidence-based care for patients across the lifespan with a broad range of physical and mental health needs.
(513) 643-9933 View (513) 643-9933
Photo of Shawn Faust, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193

See more therapy options for Maumee

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Maumee, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Maumee, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
67% Relationship Issues
67% Eating Disorders
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medical Mutual

How Psychiatrists in Maumee, 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 Maumee?

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.