Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, OH

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Photo of Emilie Breeding - WoodStream Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
WoodStream Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 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 Molly J Hall, Psychiatrist, MD
Molly J Hall
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45429
I have a private practice in adult psychiatry offering consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy. I enjoy working in collaboration with other psychotherapists to address their clients' medical needs. Over thirty years clinical experience treating diverse mental health problems- including mood, anxiety and trauma related disorders.
I have a private practice in adult psychiatry offering consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy. I enjoy working in collaboration with other psychotherapists to address their clients' medical needs. Over thirty years clinical experience treating diverse mental health problems- including mood, anxiety and trauma related disorders.
(937) 453-9041 View (937) 453-9041
Photo of Marquetta D Colbert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP
Marquetta D Colbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
(937) 501-0167 x1 View (937) 501-0167 x1
Photo of Rachel Cuenot, Psychiatrist, MD
Rachel Cuenot
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45459
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. Patients that typically benefit from the treatments that I provide are those that suffer from symptoms such as depression, anxiety, shame, lack of fulfillment in their relationships and career, inner conflicts, negative thoughts, and self-doubt. They may have difficulty finding contentment and meaning, setting boundaries, living their lives authentically, or with maintaining their confidence and self-esteem. They may also struggle with bodily stress symptoms such as headaches, fibromyalgia, insomnia, IBS, and fatigue.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. Patients that typically benefit from the treatments that I provide are those that suffer from symptoms such as depression, anxiety, shame, lack of fulfillment in their relationships and career, inner conflicts, negative thoughts, and self-doubt. They may have difficulty finding contentment and meaning, setting boundaries, living their lives authentically, or with maintaining their confidence and self-esteem. They may also struggle with bodily stress symptoms such as headaches, fibromyalgia, insomnia, IBS, and fatigue.
(937) 358-6240 View (937) 358-6240
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45405
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(614) 683-4245 View (614) 683-4245
Photo of Ashley Gould, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-C, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Ashley Gould
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-C, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Beavercreek, OH 45432
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 Leigha Wachs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Leigha Wachs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beavercreek, OH 45432
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 Mike Hatesohl, Psychiatrist, MD
Mike Hatesohl
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45414
Dr. Mike Hatesohl, MD Dr. Mike Hatesohl is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. Dr. Hatesohl seeks to treat a patient holistically, without judgement. He meets a patient where they are at and works together to develop a treatment plan that they both agree on. Dr. Mike Hatesohl emphasizes therapy in every appointment. Outside of work, Dr. Mike Hatesohl enjoys video games, exercising, reading history, trying new restaurants, and going for walks.
Dr. Mike Hatesohl, MD Dr. Mike Hatesohl is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. Dr. Hatesohl seeks to treat a patient holistically, without judgement. He meets a patient where they are at and works together to develop a treatment plan that they both agree on. Dr. Mike Hatesohl emphasizes therapy in every appointment. Outside of work, Dr. Mike Hatesohl enjoys video games, exercising, reading history, trying new restaurants, and going for walks.
(937) 745-2165 View (937) 745-2165
Photo of Renata Reuenthal - Clover Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Clover Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Reuenthal is a compassionate psychiatric physician dedicated to serving individuals facing mental health challenges. She is especially passionate to work with the unique needs of women of reproductive age. She offers a unique perspective on the assessment and treatment of a variety of conditions such as anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic conditions, and more. Her patient-centered approach prioritizes your story to foster a safe and supportive environment for accomplishing your healing goals.
Dr. Reuenthal is a compassionate psychiatric physician dedicated to serving individuals facing mental health challenges. She is especially passionate to work with the unique needs of women of reproductive age. She offers a unique perspective on the assessment and treatment of a variety of conditions such as anxiety, mood disorders, psychotic conditions, and more. Her patient-centered approach prioritizes your story to foster a safe and supportive environment for accomplishing your healing goals.
(937) 887-3618 View (937) 887-3618
Photo of Anna Wilcher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AHN-BC
Anna Wilcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AHN-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beavercreek, OH 45432
As Anna works with people across the lifespan from Kindergarden to elderly, she is influenced by her belief that health is achieved when the needs of the whole person, mind and body, are addressed. She wants to “meet a person where they are” and work together to set realistic, achievable, goals that will improve the overall quality of her patient’s life. She believes “It takes a village,” and looks forward to being a part of her patient’s village, providing expertise and support throughout their mental health journey. Anna is a Nurse Practitioner, with certifications in Advanced Holistic Nursing, Psychiatry and Mental Health.
As Anna works with people across the lifespan from Kindergarden to elderly, she is influenced by her belief that health is achieved when the needs of the whole person, mind and body, are addressed. She wants to “meet a person where they are” and work together to set realistic, achievable, goals that will improve the overall quality of her patient’s life. She believes “It takes a village,” and looks forward to being a part of her patient’s village, providing expertise and support throughout their mental health journey. Anna is a Nurse Practitioner, with certifications in Advanced Holistic Nursing, Psychiatry and Mental Health.
(937) 932-1261 View (937) 932-1261
Photo of Marsha Wilkey - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45414
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.
(937) 884-3973 View (937) 884-3973
Photo of Biaunka Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Biaunka Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Centerville, OH 45459
Biaunka Phillips is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Biaunka helps her clients by being patient centered, empathetic, attentive, and dedicated to their needs. She involves her clients, so they feel they are a part of their care. Biaunka has gained experience in critical care, medical-surgical, and long-term care throughout her nursing career. Over the last 7 years, Biaunka has worked in mental health and provided education and assisted in meeting patients' needs.
Biaunka Phillips is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Biaunka helps her clients by being patient centered, empathetic, attentive, and dedicated to their needs. She involves her clients, so they feel they are a part of their care. Biaunka has gained experience in critical care, medical-surgical, and long-term care throughout her nursing career. Over the last 7 years, Biaunka has worked in mental health and provided education and assisted in meeting patients' needs.
(937) 927-8985 View (937) 927-8985
Photo of Peace Of Mind Therapeutics . - Peace of Mind Therapeutics, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Peace of Mind Therapeutics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45424
Peace of Mind Therapeutics is a private mental health practice. We strive to promote peace across the lifespan. Our clinician is a board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her Master’s Degree in Science from Indiana Wesleyan University and a Post Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Cincinnati. She has experience working with individuals with a wide range of mental illness. Her areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Peace of Mind Therapeutics is a private mental health practice. We strive to promote peace across the lifespan. Our clinician is a board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her Master’s Degree in Science from Indiana Wesleyan University and a Post Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Cincinnati. She has experience working with individuals with a wide range of mental illness. Her areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(937) 870-3626 View (937) 870-3626
Photo of Jordan Rhyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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, PTSD and other traumas, peri/postpartum depression 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, PTSD and other traumas, peri/postpartum depression 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 Darshan Singh, Psychiatrist, MD
Darshan Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Kettering, OH 45409
Dr. Singh has multiple years of practice experience and specializes in child psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Singh is board certified and treats a wide range of mental health disorders. Based on years of experience he helps decrease and/or alleviate symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, compulsive disorders, etc.
Dr. Singh has multiple years of practice experience and specializes in child psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Singh is board certified and treats a wide range of mental health disorders. Based on years of experience he helps decrease and/or alleviate symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, compulsive disorders, etc.
(937) 533-4636 View (937) 533-4636
Photo of Gerald Makobong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45405
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
(380) 208-1756 View (380) 208-1756
Photo of Teara Gruber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Teara Gruber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Centerville, OH 45458
Teara’s path to becoming a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner began with a deep commitment to empathetic care for those in crisis. Over 13 years in the Emergency Department, she gained a reputation for staying calm under pressure while delivering exceptional care. Teara also specialized in forensic nursing, working as a Pediatric and Adult Sexual Assault Nurse. Her passion for advocacy and healing allows her to provide trauma-informed care, ensuring survivors receive the the medical attention, emotional support, and resources they need to begin their journey toward recovery.
Teara’s path to becoming a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner began with a deep commitment to empathetic care for those in crisis. Over 13 years in the Emergency Department, she gained a reputation for staying calm under pressure while delivering exceptional care. Teara also specialized in forensic nursing, working as a Pediatric and Adult Sexual Assault Nurse. Her passion for advocacy and healing allows her to provide trauma-informed care, ensuring survivors receive the the medical attention, emotional support, and resources they need to begin their journey toward recovery.
(937) 828-3925 View (937) 828-3925
Photo of Tyneah Morris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Tyneah Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
My mission statement and goal for all to recognize is "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." As a board- certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am trained to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs for all ages; such as perinatal psychiatry, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or substance abuse disorders. My patients receive patient centered care with ongoing treatment plans that are adjusted and specifically customized according to the need.
My mission statement and goal for all to recognize is "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." As a board- certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am trained to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs for all ages; such as perinatal psychiatry, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or substance abuse disorders. My patients receive patient centered care with ongoing treatment plans that are adjusted and specifically customized according to the need.
(937) 731-3918 View (937) 731-3918
Photo of Alendre McGhee - Ingenious Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Ingenious Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
(937) 719-5741 View (937) 719-5741
Photo of Tiffani Michelle Gallimore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Tiffani Michelle Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
(937) 880-3710 View (937) 880-3710
1

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, OH

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, OH who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Bipolar Disorder
69% Trauma and PTSD
67% Medication Management
61% ADHD
56% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, OH see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Montgomery County?

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.