Psychiatrists in Middletown, OH

Gagandeep Kaur Dhaliwal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, OH 45005
Hii, I am Gagandeep Dhaliwal (Gigi). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I graduated from Northern Kentucky University. I work with individuals across the lifespan who are struggling with mental health challenges. Mental health challenges can negatively affect nearly every aspect of a person's life. When mental health issues are not managed or addressed, they can interfere with emotions, behavior, physical health, relationships, and overall functioning.
Hii, I am Gagandeep Dhaliwal (Gigi). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I graduated from Northern Kentucky University. I work with individuals across the lifespan who are struggling with mental health challenges. Mental health challenges can negatively affect nearly every aspect of a person's life. When mental health issues are not managed or addressed, they can interfere with emotions, behavior, physical health, relationships, and overall functioning.

OwlBridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.

Ton Le is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has extensive experience in the healthcare field, working in the medical-surgical unit of Miami Valley Hospital upon graduation from nursing school. Soon however, he realized his interest in psychiatry and proceeded to work in the behavioral health unit at Miami Valley Hospital, gaining years of valuable experience working with its psychiatric patients.
Ton Le is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has extensive experience in the healthcare field, working in the medical-surgical unit of Miami Valley Hospital upon graduation from nursing school. Soon however, he realized his interest in psychiatry and proceeded to work in the behavioral health unit at Miami Valley Hospital, gaining years of valuable experience working with its psychiatric patients.

Nafresha Abuaun Private Practice LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.

Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.
Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.

My name is Skye Willen, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong passion for working with both pediatric and adult populations. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care, helping individuals achieve well-being and improve their quality of life. In my free time, I love to travel and take photographs. I also enjoy reading, hiking, swimming, and skiing. Walking my dog and spending time with my family are some of my favorite ways to relax and recharge.
My name is Skye Willen, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong passion for working with both pediatric and adult populations. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care, helping individuals achieve well-being and improve their quality of life. In my free time, I love to travel and take photographs. I also enjoy reading, hiking, swimming, and skiing. Walking my dog and spending time with my family are some of my favorite ways to relax and recharge.

Our God-given mission is to provide holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate treatment to those who suffer from mental illness, emotional pain, and addiction. Our team consist of a psychiatrist, therapist/counselors, nurse practitioners, and nurses to help clients achieve real outcomes with their mental health and addiction recovery.
Our God-given mission is to provide holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate treatment to those who suffer from mental illness, emotional pain, and addiction. Our team consist of a psychiatrist, therapist/counselors, nurse practitioners, and nurses to help clients achieve real outcomes with their mental health and addiction recovery.

VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (513) 540-2851 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (513) 540-2851 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.

Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.

Emily Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
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.

Melody Mumbi-Chibundi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Middletown, OH 45005
I understand that seeking help can sometimes feel like a difficult step. I want you to know that you are not alone in this journey. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can openly express yourself, knowing that I’m here to listen without judgment.
My aim is to provide compassionate care that promotes healing, resilience, and growth while, offering practical strategies for managing challenges. Together, we will explore the best way to support your mental health by utilizing therapeutic techniques, medication management, or connecting with additional resources.
I understand that seeking help can sometimes feel like a difficult step. I want you to know that you are not alone in this journey. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can openly express yourself, knowing that I’m here to listen without judgment.
My aim is to provide compassionate care that promotes healing, resilience, and growth while, offering practical strategies for managing challenges. Together, we will explore the best way to support your mental health by utilizing therapeutic techniques, medication management, or connecting with additional resources.
Christina Alcorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
Most people struggle with mental illness in some time in their lives. Situations may include the death of a loved one, anxiety related to life events, postpartum depression, attention difficulties at all ages, or a history of a chemical imbalance causing diseases such as chronic depression or anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Many people need coping skills, support and reassurance, or medical intervention to maximize their level of functioning.
Most people struggle with mental illness in some time in their lives. Situations may include the death of a loved one, anxiety related to life events, postpartum depression, attention difficulties at all ages, or a history of a chemical imbalance causing diseases such as chronic depression or anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Many people need coping skills, support and reassurance, or medical intervention to maximize their level of functioning.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Dr. Cleopatra Enakhena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you an individual needing treatment for a mental health disorder? then, you are in the right Place. I serve a large population of mental health individuals. I am very passionate about providing the best care, including participating in the development of a safe and healthy environment that is people friendly and free of stigma's. I am compassionate, caring, empathetic, and a good listener. My goal is to keep utilizing my advanced skills to improve mental health and wellness in the society.
Are you an individual needing treatment for a mental health disorder? then, you are in the right Place. I serve a large population of mental health individuals. I am very passionate about providing the best care, including participating in the development of a safe and healthy environment that is people friendly and free of stigma's. I am compassionate, caring, empathetic, and a good listener. My goal is to keep utilizing my advanced skills to improve mental health and wellness in the society.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting my clients’ mental health journeys. I earned my Bachelor of Science from Ohio University in 2017 and completed my Master of Science at Ohio State University in 2023. My experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at The James Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio, helped me develop a deep empathy and understanding for my patients.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting my clients’ mental health journeys. I earned my Bachelor of Science from Ohio University in 2017 and completed my Master of Science at Ohio State University in 2023. My experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at The James Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio, helped me develop a deep empathy and understanding for my patients.

Many people struggle with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or OCD, and may feel overwhelmed by their journey. You might be looking for a compassionate professional who can help you navigate these struggles with support and understanding. Your goal is to regain balance, find peace, and improve overall wellness. You want a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs—whether through medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches—so you can lead a fulfilling life.
Many people struggle with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or OCD, and may feel overwhelmed by their journey. You might be looking for a compassionate professional who can help you navigate these struggles with support and understanding. Your goal is to regain balance, find peace, and improve overall wellness. You want a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs—whether through medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches—so you can lead a fulfilling life.

Cassandra Hazelrig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Welcoming New Patients to Encounter Wellness Mental Health Services! "And still, I rise.” — Maya Angelou. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or maybe you just do not feel like yourself? We are here to help you. Hello, I am Cassandra Hazelrig, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and other conditions.
Welcoming New Patients to Encounter Wellness Mental Health Services! "And still, I rise.” — Maya Angelou. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or maybe you just do not feel like yourself? We are here to help you. Hello, I am Cassandra Hazelrig, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and other conditions.

Sirona Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, NCMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight

Dr. Karen Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FAAN
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
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.

George Andrew Darling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!

Nyla Bintu Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
See more therapy options for Middletown
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Middletown, OH
10+
Average cost per session
$137
Psychiatrists in Middletown, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
89% | Molina Healthcare |
How Psychiatrists in Middletown, OH see their clients
92% | In Person and Online | |
8% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Middletown?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.