Psychiatrists in Miamisburg, OH

Photo of Heather Cypher, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Cypher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner here, committed to providing genuine and inclusive care. My focus lies in serving the LGBTQ community and utilizing holistic approaches to prioritize mental well-being. With a knack for skillful medication management across various mental health conditions, I integrate evidence-based practices into prescribing decisions. Beyond that, I'm committed to creating a warm and supportive space, aiming to build therapeutic relationships that empower individuals on their unique journey to mental health and overall wellness.
Dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner here, committed to providing genuine and inclusive care. My focus lies in serving the LGBTQ community and utilizing holistic approaches to prioritize mental well-being. With a knack for skillful medication management across various mental health conditions, I integrate evidence-based practices into prescribing decisions. Beyond that, I'm committed to creating a warm and supportive space, aiming to build therapeutic relationships that empower individuals on their unique journey to mental health and overall wellness.
(937) 709-5833 View (937) 709-5833
Photo of Ashley Michelle Roden, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Michelle Roden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
(937) 600-6866 View (937) 600-6866
Photo of Janet Neal, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
I am accepting new clients and take most insurances. I would love to work with you on your mental health. Your next step is to call Wood stream Wellness and ask to be scheduled with Janet. 937-759-0545
I am accepting new clients and take most insurances. I would love to work with you on your mental health. Your next step is to call Wood stream Wellness and ask to be scheduled with Janet. 937-759-0545
(937) 358-8232 View (937) 358-8232
Photo of Meagan Conwell, PMHNP, PNP-PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meagan Conwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PNP-PC
Verified Verified
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Children, teenagers, and adults in today's world face numerous stressors and difficulties. Dealing with mental health conditions on top of the day-to-day stress can be overwhelming for both the patient and their caregivers. As a Nurse Practitioner (NP) who is certified in both mental health and pediatric primary care, I help manage my patients' mental health conditions so that they can live their best lives. Depending on the condition, my overall goal is to help patients achieve the point at which they understand and manage their mental health independently, helping them to live life to the fullest.
Children, teenagers, and adults in today's world face numerous stressors and difficulties. Dealing with mental health conditions on top of the day-to-day stress can be overwhelming for both the patient and their caregivers. As a Nurse Practitioner (NP) who is certified in both mental health and pediatric primary care, I help manage my patients' mental health conditions so that they can live their best lives. Depending on the condition, my overall goal is to help patients achieve the point at which they understand and manage their mental health independently, helping them to live life to the fullest.
(937) 882-2147 View (937) 882-2147
Photo of Emilie Breeding - WoodStream Wellness , PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
WoodStream Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Compassion. Connection. Collaboration. Mental Health Support Serving the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. Our WSW Team includes board certified specialists committed to treating, inspiring, empowering, nurturing, and supporting the human spirit. Our office is proud to offer both prescribers for medication management and therapists for psychotherapy. At WSW, we are devoted to not only upholding, but surpassing standards of mental health care and our clients’ expectations. We serve the Southwest Ohio Area with honor.
Compassion. Connection. Collaboration. Mental Health Support Serving the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. Our WSW Team includes board certified specialists committed to treating, inspiring, empowering, nurturing, and supporting the human spirit. Our office is proud to offer both prescribers for medication management and therapists for psychotherapy. At WSW, we are devoted to not only upholding, but surpassing standards of mental health care and our clients’ expectations. We serve the Southwest Ohio Area with honor.
(937) 358-8155 View (937) 358-8155
Photo of Stefanie Shaffer, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stefanie Shaffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders and other mental health issues can be frightening and difficult to navigate. Taking the first step to reclaim your mental health is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. I would be honored to provide assistance to you as you begin your journey to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders and other mental health issues can be frightening and difficult to navigate. Taking the first step to reclaim your mental health is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. I would be honored to provide assistance to you as you begin your journey to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
(937) 759-0545 View (937) 759-0545
Photo of Sarah Anderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Sarah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She see's patients of all ages, for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, complicated grief, trauma, and others. Sarah is committed to meeting patients where they are emotionally, while creating a safe space that promotes open communication and personal growth. Take the first step toward improving your mental health—limited immediate openings are available. Call today to schedule your appointment!
Sarah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She see's patients of all ages, for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, complicated grief, trauma, and others. Sarah is committed to meeting patients where they are emotionally, while creating a safe space that promotes open communication and personal growth. Take the first step toward improving your mental health—limited immediate openings are available. Call today to schedule your appointment!
(937) 230-8139 View (937) 230-8139
Photo of Jordan Rhyan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Rhyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Jordan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees patients of all ages for a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and others. She has in person office appointment visits available as well as virtual visits. She is committed to creating a safe, caring and non-judgmental space for her patients so that they can receive the best care possible.
Jordan is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She sees patients of all ages for a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and others. She has in person office appointment visits available as well as virtual visits. She is committed to creating a safe, caring and non-judgmental space for her patients so that they can receive the best care possible.
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Photo of Abbie Mills, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abbie Mills
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Miamisburg, OH 45342
I work with my clients to meet their mental health goals with a holistic approach. I understand that mental health is influenced by various factors including physical health, environment, relationships and personal history. I provide a supportive, empathetic and non-judgmental space to explore and address mental health needs.
I work with my clients to meet their mental health goals with a holistic approach. I understand that mental health is influenced by various factors including physical health, environment, relationships and personal history. I provide a supportive, empathetic and non-judgmental space to explore and address mental health needs.
(937) 744-4718 View (937) 744-4718
Photo of Susan Ae Johnson, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Ae Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Miamisburg, OH 45342
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, mental health has always been a passion of mine. I provide a safe and positive space for patients of all ages and all mental health conditions. As each patient's situation and experiences are different, I strive to work with each patient to give a unique and personalized treatment plan. I primarily work in medication management, but I am here to advocate and assist my patients through a holistic approach. Mental health is a journey, and I look forward to supporting you along the way.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, mental health has always been a passion of mine. I provide a safe and positive space for patients of all ages and all mental health conditions. As each patient's situation and experiences are different, I strive to work with each patient to give a unique and personalized treatment plan. I primarily work in medication management, but I am here to advocate and assist my patients through a holistic approach. Mental health is a journey, and I look forward to supporting you along the way.
(937) 888-2042 View (937) 888-2042
Photo of Leigha Wachs, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leigha Wachs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Leigha Wachs, a certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD in children. Utilizing evidence-based therapies, she develops personalized treatment regimens tailored to individual patient needs. Leveraging her extensive expertise, Leigha delivers exceptional psychiatric and mental health care services. Committed to upholding the highest standards of care, her primary goal is to aid patients in achieving optimal mental health and overall well-being.
Leigha Wachs, a certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD in children. Utilizing evidence-based therapies, she develops personalized treatment regimens tailored to individual patient needs. Leveraging her extensive expertise, Leigha delivers exceptional psychiatric and mental health care services. Committed to upholding the highest standards of care, her primary goal is to aid patients in achieving optimal mental health and overall well-being.
(937) 358-8616 View (937) 358-8616
Photo of Ashley Gould, APRN-C, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Gould
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-C, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Ashley holds a dual board certification as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in office as well as through virtual visits. She works to form partnerships with her patients and is passionate about helping individuals and families thrive.
Ashley holds a dual board certification as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in office as well as through virtual visits. She works to form partnerships with her patients and is passionate about helping individuals and families thrive.
(937) 709-4041 View (937) 709-4041
Photo of Chelsea Dickerson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsea Dickerson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miamisburg, OH 45342
I have personally experienced anxiety, depression, ADHD and neurodivergence. As a graduate of NKU, I offer services tailored to each individuals' unique needs. With an integrative approach to mental health I want to offer conventional services such as therapy and medication with complementary therapies like mindfulness, nutrition and exercise, using a holistic approach addressing the whole person, mind, body and spirit. Recognizing the interconnectedness of physical health, emotional wellbeing and lifestyle factors to create personalized and comprehensive treatment plans.
I have personally experienced anxiety, depression, ADHD and neurodivergence. As a graduate of NKU, I offer services tailored to each individuals' unique needs. With an integrative approach to mental health I want to offer conventional services such as therapy and medication with complementary therapies like mindfulness, nutrition and exercise, using a holistic approach addressing the whole person, mind, body and spirit. Recognizing the interconnectedness of physical health, emotional wellbeing and lifestyle factors to create personalized and comprehensive treatment plans.
(513) 901-4237 View (513) 901-4237
Photo of Katherine G Smith, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katherine G Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miamisburg, OH 45342
I graduated with a master's degree from NKU and discovered my passion for mental healthcare while working in an emergency level I trauma center. Providing care to patients experiencing mental health crises in a psychiatric emergency department fueled my commitment to advocacy in this field. My hobbies include reading, crocheting, baking, and spending time with family and friends. I am dedicated to addressing the unique needs of individuals with empathy, ensuring they receive the support necessary to reach their goals and support their overall well-being. My favorite quote, "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t".
I graduated with a master's degree from NKU and discovered my passion for mental healthcare while working in an emergency level I trauma center. Providing care to patients experiencing mental health crises in a psychiatric emergency department fueled my commitment to advocacy in this field. My hobbies include reading, crocheting, baking, and spending time with family and friends. I am dedicated to addressing the unique needs of individuals with empathy, ensuring they receive the support necessary to reach their goals and support their overall well-being. My favorite quote, "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t".
(937) 646-1717 View (937) 646-1717
Photo of Emily Garrett, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing a safe space for people to receive support for anything they may be struggling with related to their mental health. While I primarily work in medication management, my number one goal is to always make you feel heard and supported as you work toward achieving the life you want to live. I am accepting new clients ages 5 and up who are looking to make a positive change in their life. I look forward to meeting you soon!
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am passionate about providing a safe space for people to receive support for anything they may be struggling with related to their mental health. While I primarily work in medication management, my number one goal is to always make you feel heard and supported as you work toward achieving the life you want to live. I am accepting new clients ages 5 and up who are looking to make a positive change in their life. I look forward to meeting you soon!
(937) 821-5790 View (937) 821-5790
Photo of Grace Carlisle, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Grace Carlisle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am passionate about making sure my clients feel heard. I want my patients to leave their appointments knowing that their provider cares about their progress and their overall health and happiness. I serve clients of all ages, and have a special interest in adolescents and young adults with anxiety, depression, panic disorders and trauma. My favorite motto is, "be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody."
I am passionate about making sure my clients feel heard. I want my patients to leave their appointments knowing that their provider cares about their progress and their overall health and happiness. I serve clients of all ages, and have a special interest in adolescents and young adults with anxiety, depression, panic disorders and trauma. My favorite motto is, "be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody."
(937) 759-0545 View (937) 759-0545
Photo of Brad Gibson - A Life Renewed, MBA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Life Renewed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Our small, intimate, private practice gives patients a sense of privacy and quality care that larger institutions can struggle to provide at times. We want those who we serve to know they are not just a number, that they matter, their care is important, and we are committed to building a healthy and nurturing relationship with them. We serve mental health disorders from 6yrs old (+) in a safe and comforting environment. We offer several services including, but not limited to: psychiatric evaluations, medication management, pharmacogenomic testing, applicable labs and tests, just to name a few.
Our small, intimate, private practice gives patients a sense of privacy and quality care that larger institutions can struggle to provide at times. We want those who we serve to know they are not just a number, that they matter, their care is important, and we are committed to building a healthy and nurturing relationship with them. We serve mental health disorders from 6yrs old (+) in a safe and comforting environment. We offer several services including, but not limited to: psychiatric evaluations, medication management, pharmacogenomic testing, applicable labs and tests, just to name a few.
(937) 745-2129 View (937) 745-2129

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Daija Jones, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daija Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Daija Jones, Founder of Cultivating & Curing the Mind LLC. I have a background in the Emergency Room, Intensive Care Unit, Prisons, and Mental Health. I found my passion to serve in the Mental Health field through working in the Emergency Rooms as well as working in the Prisons. Mental Health has been one of the greatest healthcare struggles across the country for years and that is why I put in the work to join the fight.
Hello, my name is Daija Jones, Founder of Cultivating & Curing the Mind LLC. I have a background in the Emergency Room, Intensive Care Unit, Prisons, and Mental Health. I found my passion to serve in the Mental Health field through working in the Emergency Rooms as well as working in the Prisons. Mental Health has been one of the greatest healthcare struggles across the country for years and that is why I put in the work to join the fight.
(513) 676-6012 View (513) 676-6012
Photo of Sarah Swiger, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Swiger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Stronger Minds Mental Health and Wellness, LLC. My name is Sarah and I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
Welcome to Stronger Minds Mental Health and Wellness, LLC. My name is Sarah and I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
(513) 647-0531 View (513) 647-0531
Photo of Emily Bush, APRN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
Hi, I’m Emily Bush, a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I believe that truly understanding my patients is key to helping them heal. That's why I take extra time to get to know each of my patients, learning their unique stories, needs, and concerns.
Hi, I’m Emily Bush, a dual certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I believe that truly understanding my patients is key to helping them heal. That's why I take extra time to get to know each of my patients, learning their unique stories, needs, and concerns.
(513) 279-8035 View (513) 279-8035

See more therapy options for Miamisburg

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Miamisburg, OH

10+

Psychiatrists in Miamisburg, OH who prioritize treating:

76% Depression
76% Anxiety
71% ADHD
65% Medication Management
59% Bipolar Disorder
47% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
47% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Medicare
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
92% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Miamisburg, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

94% Female
6% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Miamisburg?

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.