Psychiatrists in Newark, OH

Photo of Leslie Powell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Leslie Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
Hello, I am Leslie Powell. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management services to help provide the chemical platform that can help you treat symptoms while you develop coping skills and resiliency. As much as possible, I encourage coping skills and healthy boundaries for long-term well-being. I prescribe medications for temporary periods to help you while you are growing those skills. We all hurt or struggle sometimes, we are all human. It's important to know that there are people to help when we need it.
(220) 250-2549 View (220) 250-2549
Photo of Andrea M Jones - MoodRx Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, Owner
MoodRx Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, Owner
Newark, OH 43055
Compassion, Experience, Empathy. That's what and who we are in short. We take the patients who are tired of not being listened to, written off, treated like they don't know themselves. We want to know you and your story without rushing you through an appointment. It is YOUR appointment afterall, right? It's just a nurse and nurse practitioner at the office who are both sassy and have no issues arguing insurance to get your treatment approved, sometimes with a splash of...bad words. Oops. You better believe our patients get what they need though! ; )
Compassion, Experience, Empathy. That's what and who we are in short. We take the patients who are tired of not being listened to, written off, treated like they don't know themselves. We want to know you and your story without rushing you through an appointment. It is YOUR appointment afterall, right? It's just a nurse and nurse practitioner at the office who are both sassy and have no issues arguing insurance to get your treatment approved, sometimes with a splash of...bad words. Oops. You better believe our patients get what they need though! ; )
(740) 807-2855 View (740) 807-2855
Photo of Jennifer J Truman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Jennifer J Truman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Finding the right psychiatric care can feel overwhelming—like searching for a true ally. I make it simple for adults 18+. With years of experience, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where you’re truly heard and valued. Using compassionate guidance and genetic testing, we create personalized solutions that fit you—skipping trial-and-error.
Finding the right psychiatric care can feel overwhelming—like searching for a true ally. I make it simple for adults 18+. With years of experience, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where you’re truly heard and valued. Using compassionate guidance and genetic testing, we create personalized solutions that fit you—skipping trial-and-error.
(419) 963-6946 View (419) 963-6946
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, Psychiatrist, MD
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
(immediate openings within one week) VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer at home. 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're committed to helping you find the right treatment plan that fits your needs.
(immediate openings within one week) VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer at home. 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're committed to helping you find the right treatment plan that fits your needs.
(614) 502-3491 View (614) 502-3491
Photo of Vincent Bett, Psychiatric Nurse
Vincent Bett
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and psychosis, I am dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from the challenges of these mental health conditions. My ideal client often struggles with persistent worry, difficulty focusing, mood fluctuations, or episodes of psychosis and seeks effective support and practical solutions to enhance their quality of life. I offer personalized mental health care that combines medication management with evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to your unique needs.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and psychosis, I am dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from the challenges of these mental health conditions. My ideal client often struggles with persistent worry, difficulty focusing, mood fluctuations, or episodes of psychosis and seeks effective support and practical solutions to enhance their quality of life. I offer personalized mental health care that combines medication management with evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to your unique needs.
(380) 270-0955 View (380) 270-0955
Photo of Stacey Molle - Spectrum Mental Health Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LISW
Spectrum Mental Health Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LISW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are now accepting clients in Columbus and Bowling Green! What does S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. stand for? Safety. Pride. Education. Compassion. Truth. Respect. Unity. Mindfulness. Spectrum specializes in providing mental health and wellness services in an open, non-judgemental, AND affordable delivery model. We think outside of the box and tailor care to the individual. We pride ourselves on our affirming, holistic approach.
We are now accepting clients in Columbus and Bowling Green! What does S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. stand for? Safety. Pride. Education. Compassion. Truth. Respect. Unity. Mindfulness. Spectrum specializes in providing mental health and wellness services in an open, non-judgemental, AND affordable delivery model. We think outside of the box and tailor care to the individual. We pride ourselves on our affirming, holistic approach.
(380) 212-2520 View (380) 212-2520
Photo of Phaecia Ward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Phaecia Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Dr. Phaecia Ward has over a decade of experience and specializes in supporting African American adults and families. She employs an attachment-based approach to heal past emotional wounds and enhance relationship dynamics. This approach delves into the formation of emotional connections. It promotes deeper understanding and healing within individuals.
Dr. Phaecia Ward has over a decade of experience and specializes in supporting African American adults and families. She employs an attachment-based approach to heal past emotional wounds and enhance relationship dynamics. This approach delves into the formation of emotional connections. It promotes deeper understanding and healing within individuals.
(614) 877-6760 View (614) 877-6760

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ozzie Hairston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Ozzie Hairston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Everyone’s carrying something—old wounds, tough memories, patterns we wish we could break. I know what it’s like to wrestle with the past while trying to build a future that feels true to who you want to become. My goal is to help you work through those traumas and challenges, not by handing you quick fixes, but by walking alongside you as you find real solutions. Together, we’ll take the steps toward the version of yourself you’re hoping to meet—one that feels authentic, hopeful, and strong.
Everyone’s carrying something—old wounds, tough memories, patterns we wish we could break. I know what it’s like to wrestle with the past while trying to build a future that feels true to who you want to become. My goal is to help you work through those traumas and challenges, not by handing you quick fixes, but by walking alongside you as you find real solutions. Together, we’ll take the steps toward the version of yourself you’re hoping to meet—one that feels authentic, hopeful, and strong.
(704) 389-3644 View (704) 389-3644
Photo of Ian Marconi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, PMHNP-
Ian Marconi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, PMHNP-
Westerville, OH 43082
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. Prior to joining Lifestance I worked in community mental health and have experience with dual diagnosis and addiction treatment. I am able to assess, diagnose and treat a variety of mental health disorders and conditions using the most current evidenced based research. I am able to provide medication management as well as psychotherapy and CBT for a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
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. Prior to joining Lifestance I worked in community mental health and have experience with dual diagnosis and addiction treatment. I am able to assess, diagnose and treat a variety of mental health disorders and conditions using the most current evidenced based research. I am able to provide medication management as well as psychotherapy and CBT for a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
(614) 762-9214 View (614) 762-9214
Photo of Reha Calhoun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Reha Calhoun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
I believe that effective mental health care begins with feeling truly seen and understood. I bring a unique perspective to my practice as someone with both the clinical expertise of an MSN and the lived experience of navigating the complexities of behavioral health. My approach is shaped by over 15 years of healthcare experience—including a decade of academic training at Ohio University and over 4 years in psychiatry—but it is also deeply informed by my own personal journey. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnostic assessments and medication management for patients of all ages.
I believe that effective mental health care begins with feeling truly seen and understood. I bring a unique perspective to my practice as someone with both the clinical expertise of an MSN and the lived experience of navigating the complexities of behavioral health. My approach is shaped by over 15 years of healthcare experience—including a decade of academic training at Ohio University and over 4 years in psychiatry—but it is also deeply informed by my own personal journey. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnostic assessments and medication management for patients of all ages.
(740) 728-7540 View (740) 728-7540
Photo of Jane Aridge, Psychiatric Nurse
Jane Aridge
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jane Aridge. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over twenty years of mental health and medical experience working with children and adults. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I utilize evidence-based practices when treating mental health disorders. I believe in working with clients and using a holistic approach when treating you or your loved one’s mental health disorders.
Hello, my name is Jane Aridge. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over twenty years of mental health and medical experience working with children and adults. I have experience treating a variety of mental health disorders including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I utilize evidence-based practices when treating mental health disorders. I believe in working with clients and using a holistic approach when treating you or your loved one’s mental health disorders.
(513) 613-4858 View (513) 613-4858
Photo of Lindsay Tummino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Lindsay Tummino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Online Only
Hello, my name is Lindsay, and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner practicing in the state of Ohio. I have been in practice as a PMHNP for 5 years and have been a nurse for approximately 15 years. My experience includes treating adults (18+) and older adults (65+) with acute and chronic mental health conditions. Some of the specialties I have more experience in includes anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, dementia-related mental health symptoms, and psychosis.
Hello, my name is Lindsay, and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner practicing in the state of Ohio. I have been in practice as a PMHNP for 5 years and have been a nurse for approximately 15 years. My experience includes treating adults (18+) and older adults (65+) with acute and chronic mental health conditions. Some of the specialties I have more experience in includes anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, dementia-related mental health symptoms, and psychosis.
(440) 901-1494 View (440) 901-1494
Photo of Mourine J Nyangoro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Mourine J Nyangoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
(614) 683-4373 View (614) 683-4373
Photo of Helene Muhirwa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Helene Muhirwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Groveport, OH 43125
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Weight loss ,Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve ideal healthy weight, ideal mental state or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Weight loss ,Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve ideal healthy weight, ideal mental state or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
(614) 756-5649 View (614) 756-5649
Photo of Natasha Asante, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Natasha Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Natasha Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental well-being. I graduated from the University of Toledo with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2017, and since then, I have worked in various nursing specialties. Throughout my career, I developed a deep passion for mental health, which led me to pursue higher education.
My name is Natasha Asante, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental well-being. I graduated from the University of Toledo with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2017, and since then, I have worked in various nursing specialties. Throughout my career, I developed a deep passion for mental health, which led me to pursue higher education.
(380) 233-9283 View (380) 233-9283
Photo of Taylor Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Taylor Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats an array of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, behavioral issues, and sleep/insomnia. I am passionate about providing quality, evidence-based, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. As a PMHNP, my role is multifaceted—serving as an educator, mental health advocate, supportive listener, and medication manager to help clients reach their goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats an array of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, behavioral issues, and sleep/insomnia. I am passionate about providing quality, evidence-based, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. As a PMHNP, my role is multifaceted—serving as an educator, mental health advocate, supportive listener, and medication manager to help clients reach their goals.
(614) 532-2158 View (614) 532-2158
Photo of Fardowsa Sheikh Sheikh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fardowsa Sheikh Sheikh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Fardowsa - pronounced Far-doe-sa. My style as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is warm, flexible and down to earth. I believe in working with you to find the right path toward feeling better. During our conversations, you'll notice every interaction is very personalized — I’ll ask thoughtful questions, truly listen to your answers, and tailor your medication plan to fit your unique needs and goals. My clients often describe me as warm and easy to talk to, and many say they feel comfortable opening up right away.
Hi, I'm Fardowsa - pronounced Far-doe-sa. My style as a psychiatric nurse practitioner is warm, flexible and down to earth. I believe in working with you to find the right path toward feeling better. During our conversations, you'll notice every interaction is very personalized — I’ll ask thoughtful questions, truly listen to your answers, and tailor your medication plan to fit your unique needs and goals. My clients often describe me as warm and easy to talk to, and many say they feel comfortable opening up right away.
(740) 284-8764 View (740) 284-8764
Photo of Andrea Swails - Dr Andrea Swails PMHNP., BC., APRN., DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr Andrea Swails PMHNP., BC., APRN., DNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Greetings, I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner based in Ohio. I received my second Master's from Kent State University.
Greetings, I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner based in Ohio. I received my second Master's from Kent State University.
(216) 755-7483 View (216) 755-7483
Ardent Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BS
Online Only
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
(740) 272-4868 View (740) 272-4868
Photo of Dr. Carol Ann Parker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Dr. Carol Ann Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Online Only
Your story matters, and I’m here to help you navigate it with compassion and clinical expertise. I offer virtual sessions for individuals seeking thoughtful, personalized support for mental health and substance use challenges. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and addictions involving opioids, alcohol, and other substances. Through respectful collaboration, I tailor medication management and talk therapy to your unique needs, creating a safe space for healing, growth, and lasting recovery.
Your story matters, and I’m here to help you navigate it with compassion and clinical expertise. I offer virtual sessions for individuals seeking thoughtful, personalized support for mental health and substance use challenges. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and addictions involving opioids, alcohol, and other substances. Through respectful collaboration, I tailor medication management and talk therapy to your unique needs, creating a safe space for healing, growth, and lasting recovery.
(513) 966-5938 View (513) 966-5938

See more therapy options for Newark

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Newark, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Newark, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Trauma and PTSD
86% Anxiety
86% ADHD
86% Bipolar Disorder
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Anger Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Newark, OH see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Newark?

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.