Psychiatrists in New Albany, OH

Photo of Stephanie Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Stephanie Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Online Only
I am a big advocate for preventive medicine. There is value in educating patients to pursue wellness as well as the treatment of illness. My goal is to guide patients through their healthcare journey and find individualized solutions. I believe, as a healthcare provider, we can do right by our patients when we take to time to LISTEN to more than just complaints of symptoms. We should be taking in the patient’s biological and environmental background as well.
I am a big advocate for preventive medicine. There is value in educating patients to pursue wellness as well as the treatment of illness. My goal is to guide patients through their healthcare journey and find individualized solutions. I believe, as a healthcare provider, we can do right by our patients when we take to time to LISTEN to more than just complaints of symptoms. We should be taking in the patient’s biological and environmental background as well.
(380) 268-2611 View (380) 268-2611
Photo of Melinda Kaye Bates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Melinda Kaye Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
New Albany, OH 43054
The mind and the body are both important parts of your overall well-being. We will work together to create a treatment plan that will improve your mental health and help you to feel like your best self.
The mind and the body are both important parts of your overall well-being. We will work together to create a treatment plan that will improve your mental health and help you to feel like your best self.
(614) 826-6567 View (614) 826-6567
Photo of Christopher Lautt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Christopher Lautt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
New Albany, OH 43054
Christopher Lautt is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He earned both his Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degrees with honors at The Ohio State University. He has been working in psychiatry for several years as a nurse and nurse practitioner with experience in telepsychiatry, inpatient psychiatry, and outpatient community mental health.
Christopher Lautt is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He earned both his Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degrees with honors at The Ohio State University. He has been working in psychiatry for several years as a nurse and nurse practitioner with experience in telepsychiatry, inpatient psychiatry, and outpatient community mental health.
(380) 207-9066 View (380) 207-9066
Photo of Ramona Bhatt, Psychiatrist, DO
Ramona Bhatt
Psychiatrist, DO
New Albany, OH 43054
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
(614) 418-6712 View (614) 418-6712
Photo of Marc Whitsett - The Ridge, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, ABAM, DABIM
The Ridge
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, ABAM, DABIM
Serves Area
The Ridge is a premier drug & alcohol treatment and detox center near Cincinnati, Ohio. Located on a private 51-acre estate, we offer evidence-based treatment with five-star amenities, including chef-prepared gourmet meals, a swimming pool, and a peaceful, home-like environment. With only 27 beds, we provide the highest quality, intensive addiction treatment for men and women. Our individualized treatment programs are tailored for each client's needs and include individual, group, and family counseling in addition to complementary supports like yoga, meditation, walking, music, and art therapy. Following residential treatment, clients can receive at least 52 weeks of aftercare and join our alumni community.
The Ridge is a premier drug & alcohol treatment and detox center near Cincinnati, Ohio. Located on a private 51-acre estate, we offer evidence-based treatment with five-star amenities, including chef-prepared gourmet meals, a swimming pool, and a peaceful, home-like environment. With only 27 beds, we provide the highest quality, intensive addiction treatment for men and women. Our individualized treatment programs are tailored for each client's needs and include individual, group, and family counseling in addition to complementary supports like yoga, meditation, walking, music, and art therapy. Following residential treatment, clients can receive at least 52 weeks of aftercare and join our alumni community.
(513) 813-2949 View (513) 813-2949
Photo of Sophia Kassem, Psychiatrist, DO
Sophia Kassem
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6 to 21. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6 to 21. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
(614) 762-9571 View (614) 762-9571
Photo of Katie Stanford - Harmony Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Harmony Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients- Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers Spravato (esketamine) treatment, medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
Accepting New Patients- Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers Spravato (esketamine) treatment, medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
(740) 224-8976 View (740) 224-8976
Photo of Grace Carlisle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Grace Carlisle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
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 Amy Klinger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC
Amy Klinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Amy and I am so glad you found my profile. I would love to partner with you on your journey to improved health and wellness. You will find that I am non-judgmental, compassionate, and very caring. We will work together to come up with the plan that best fits your needs and goals. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in the treatment of a variety of mental health conditions.
Hello! My name is Amy and I am so glad you found my profile. I would love to partner with you on your journey to improved health and wellness. You will find that I am non-judgmental, compassionate, and very caring. We will work together to come up with the plan that best fits your needs and goals. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in the treatment of a variety of mental health conditions.
(740) 273-8106 View (740) 273-8106
Photo of Kelly Severhof, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Kelly Severhof
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Kelly, and I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Ohio. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, maternal mental health, pre/postpartum care, women’s issues, insomnia, OCD, PTSD/trauma, grief, bipolar disorder, student mental health, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), cultural identity, spirituality, and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Kelly, and I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Ohio. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, maternal mental health, pre/postpartum care, women’s issues, insomnia, OCD, PTSD/trauma, grief, bipolar disorder, student mental health, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), cultural identity, spirituality, and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(614) 768-2377 View (614) 768-2377
Photo of Ian Marconi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-
Ian Marconi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-
Serves Area
Ian M. Marconi MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a 2002 graduate from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a 2007 graduate of Mt. Carmel College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a 2021 graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Psych-Mental Health. I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU.
Ian M. Marconi MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a 2002 graduate from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a 2007 graduate of Mt. Carmel College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a 2021 graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Psych-Mental Health. I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU.
(614) 762-9214 View (614) 762-9214
Photo of Kayla Hayes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Kayla Hayes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I am Dr. Hayes, a Vanderbilt University-trained doctor of nursing practice who specializes in helping women (18+) navigate anxiety, life transitions, hormone changes, mood issues, and sleep challenges. With a passion for supporting professionals, healthcare workers, first responders, and mothers, I provide tailored care to empower women to thrive in all aspects of life.
Hi, I am Dr. Hayes, a Vanderbilt University-trained doctor of nursing practice who specializes in helping women (18+) navigate anxiety, life transitions, hormone changes, mood issues, and sleep challenges. With a passion for supporting professionals, healthcare workers, first responders, and mothers, I provide tailored care to empower women to thrive in all aspects of life.
(615) 471-6462 View (615) 471-6462
Photo of Melissa Lopez-Larson, Psychiatrist, MD
Melissa Lopez-Larson
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Don't wait 2 weeks, now seeing patients in person at her new Independence, Ohio office. Telepsychiatry also available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites including Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital and Cambridge Hospital, respectively. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
Don't wait 2 weeks, now seeing patients in person at her new Independence, Ohio office. Telepsychiatry also available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites including Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital and Cambridge Hospital, respectively. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
(614) 714-1854 View (614) 714-1854
Photo of Kathryn Hendricks - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
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.
(380) 246-4984 View (380) 246-4984
Photo of Carol Ann Parker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP-C
Carol Ann Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP-C
Online Only
I offer virtual sessions for individuals seeking mental healthcare and assistance with substance use disorders. My expertise lies in supporting individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and addictions involving opiates, alcohol, and other illicit substances through medication management and talk therapy. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and effective treatment to help individuals achieve their mental health and recovery goals.
I offer virtual sessions for individuals seeking mental healthcare and assistance with substance use disorders. My expertise lies in supporting individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and addictions involving opiates, alcohol, and other illicit substances through medication management and talk therapy. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and effective treatment to help individuals achieve their mental health and recovery goals.
(513) 966-5938 View (513) 966-5938
Photo of Kathryn Hendricks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Kathryn Hendricks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
(614) 660-5691 View (614) 660-5691
Photo of Caroline Block-Wilkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PNP-PC
Caroline Block-Wilkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PNP-PC
Serves Area
Welcome! My name is Caroline, and I am so happy you came across my profile. Life is a journey with hills and valleys, and I am here to offer what you need at this time. Your needs may change as we work together, and that is ok. I provide medication management and psychotherapy for all ages.
Welcome! My name is Caroline, and I am so happy you came across my profile. Life is a journey with hills and valleys, and I am here to offer what you need at this time. Your needs may change as we work together, and that is ok. I provide medication management and psychotherapy for all ages.
(220) 241-1338 View (220) 241-1338
Photo of Jorden Brent Weiss, Psychiatrist, DO
Jorden Brent Weiss
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist trained to listen empathically to patients with deep respect for their emotional troubles. Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Executive Functioning disorders, Autism and Aspergers Syndrome are a major focus of my practice. Women's Health, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Psychosis and Schizophrenia are also treated extensively. Pharmacotherapy and Psychotherapy are employed with kindness and compassion to restore balance and quality of life. I employ an Integrative Psychiatric approach to resolve underlying root causes of illness and achieve symptom relief.
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist trained to listen empathically to patients with deep respect for their emotional troubles. Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Executive Functioning disorders, Autism and Aspergers Syndrome are a major focus of my practice. Women's Health, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Psychosis and Schizophrenia are also treated extensively. Pharmacotherapy and Psychotherapy are employed with kindness and compassion to restore balance and quality of life. I employ an Integrative Psychiatric approach to resolve underlying root causes of illness and achieve symptom relief.
(614) 300-2014 View (614) 300-2014
Photo of Elizabeth Knicely, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Elizabeth Knicely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. My name is Liz and I have been practicing as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for several years now. I have experience working with clients from varying populations, ages, and backgrounds.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. My name is Liz and I have been practicing as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for several years now. I have experience working with clients from varying populations, ages, and backgrounds.
(740) 486-9922 View (740) 486-9922
Photo of Sarah Fortin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Sarah Fortin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Sarah, and I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Ohio. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, maternal mental health (pre/postpartum), women’s issues, sleep issues, OCD, bipolar disorder, binge eating, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ topics, trauma/PTSD, grief and bereavement, college & graduate student mental health, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Sarah, and I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Ohio. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, maternal mental health (pre/postpartum), women’s issues, sleep issues, OCD, bipolar disorder, binge eating, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ topics, trauma/PTSD, grief and bereavement, college & graduate student mental health, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(614) 245-5554 View (614) 245-5554

See more therapy options for New Albany

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in New Albany, OH

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in New Albany, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Trauma and PTSD
95% Depression
95% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Sleep or Insomnia
80% Medication Management
75% ADHD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in New Albany, OH see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

65% Female
35% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in New Albany?

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.