Psychiatrists in Newton Falls, OH

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Photo of Sharon Hawout - MindfulHive Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-
MindfulHive Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by anxiety, ADHD, or mood changes, and is ready to find a way forward. You may be struggling to focus, keep up with responsibilities, or manage overwhelming emotions. As a former Certified Nurse Midwife, I have a special interest in pregnancy and postpartum mental health. Practicing as a midwife led to the realization that providers that are comfortable treating maternal mental health issues are often difficult to find. Your goal is to feel more grounded, calm, and confident in daily life, with tools that actually work for you—not just temporary fixes.
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by anxiety, ADHD, or mood changes, and is ready to find a way forward. You may be struggling to focus, keep up with responsibilities, or manage overwhelming emotions. As a former Certified Nurse Midwife, I have a special interest in pregnancy and postpartum mental health. Practicing as a midwife led to the realization that providers that are comfortable treating maternal mental health issues are often difficult to find. Your goal is to feel more grounded, calm, and confident in daily life, with tools that actually work for you—not just temporary fixes.
(234) 601-0240 View (234) 601-0240
Photo of Ebony Carter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP-C
Ebony Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP-C
Online Only
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner in primary care and psychiatry, specializing in providing comprehensive, patient-centered mental health services. With over 16 years of experience in the medical field, my expertise includes treating adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. My goal is to support you in understanding and managing your mental health in a compassionate and holistic manner.
I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner in primary care and psychiatry, specializing in providing comprehensive, patient-centered mental health services. With over 16 years of experience in the medical field, my expertise includes treating adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. My goal is to support you in understanding and managing your mental health in a compassionate and holistic manner.
(234) 956-2118 View (234) 956-2118
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Online Only
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych eval and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $109. Accepting many major insurances.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych eval and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $109. Accepting many major insurances.
(330) 222-8501 View (330) 222-8501
Photo of Dr. Elise Bonder, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Elise Bonder
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Bonder is a board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mental health issues such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Mood disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Trauma Related Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. She has expertise in the management of patients from childhood through young adulthood.
Dr. Bonder is a board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mental health issues such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Mood disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Trauma Related Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. She has expertise in the management of patients from childhood through young adulthood.
(216) 369-1124 View (216) 369-1124
Photo of Diana L. Isaacs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Diana L. Isaacs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Youngstown, OH 44515
My name is Diana Isaacs. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I transitioned into this role after practicing in the field of nursing for 20 years. I treat patients in an outpatient setting and see patients across the lifespan. My goal is to create a collaborative relationship with my patients to understand their unique story and provide individualized treatment through evidence-based practices.
My name is Diana Isaacs. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I transitioned into this role after practicing in the field of nursing for 20 years. I treat patients in an outpatient setting and see patients across the lifespan. My goal is to create a collaborative relationship with my patients to understand their unique story and provide individualized treatment through evidence-based practices.
(330) 915-7551 View (330) 915-7551
Photo of David McNair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
David McNair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Twinsburg, OH 44087
David McNair is an Ohio native that earned his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Kent State University and master’s degree in nursing from Walden University. Board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, he has over a decade of clinical experience in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic mental health care and also serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. He sees patients ages 6 to 75 and specializes in treating anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
David McNair is an Ohio native that earned his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Kent State University and master’s degree in nursing from Walden University. Board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, he has over a decade of clinical experience in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic mental health care and also serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. He sees patients ages 6 to 75 and specializes in treating anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
(234) 348-3792 View (234) 348-3792
Photo of Kamala Adury, Psychiatrist
Kamala Adury
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
Clients come with come with mental health and/or sleep issues. The goal is an improved quality of life or rather a sense of wellbeing. If it is a major episode of depression or an episode of psychosis, the goal is remission and relapse prevention. It is a place where you can safely, reliably and productively simplify your complex pharmaceutical regimen. The approach to treatment is multidisciplinary and prescribing or deprescribing might be recommended (but not enforced). We offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Clients come with come with mental health and/or sleep issues. The goal is an improved quality of life or rather a sense of wellbeing. If it is a major episode of depression or an episode of psychosis, the goal is remission and relapse prevention. It is a place where you can safely, reliably and productively simplify your complex pharmaceutical regimen. The approach to treatment is multidisciplinary and prescribing or deprescribing might be recommended (but not enforced). We offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(330) 625-9667 View (330) 625-9667
Photo of Ashley Brugmann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Brugmann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health.
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health.
(330) 859-4824 View (330) 859-4824
Photo of Hakim Nuru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Hakim Nuru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you seeking to regain a fulfilling and productive life? Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, low libido, ADHD, or other challenges, I'm here to assist you. With over 30 years of medical experience and more than four years as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide compassionate, patient-centered mental health care. I focus on understanding the whole person and creating a supportive space where clients feel heard and respected.
Are you seeking to regain a fulfilling and productive life? Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, low libido, ADHD, or other challenges, I'm here to assist you. With over 30 years of medical experience and more than four years as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide compassionate, patient-centered mental health care. I focus on understanding the whole person and creating a supportive space where clients feel heard and respected.
(330) 878-3638 View (330) 878-3638
Photo of Lauren Kusi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lauren Kusi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing holistic mental health care. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, and I aim to form strong connections with my patients to create personalized treatment plans. I use evidence -based practices to address a wide range of psychiatric disorders. To stay grounded and informed, I enjoy reading, mindfulness and yoga.
I am board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing holistic mental health care. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, and I aim to form strong connections with my patients to create personalized treatment plans. I use evidence -based practices to address a wide range of psychiatric disorders. To stay grounded and informed, I enjoy reading, mindfulness and yoga.
(234) 601-3428 View (234) 601-3428
Photo of Melissa Cetone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melissa Cetone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Melissa Cetone. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice areas of focus are depression, anxiety ( using non-addictive medications), post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorders, attention deficit disorders, and schizophrenia. I incorporate psychological, biological, and social factors into my approach to providing mental health care. I have a strong background working with patients diagnosed with mood disorders. I’m comfortable treating depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar, and schizoaffective disorder.
Hello! My name is Melissa Cetone. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My practice areas of focus are depression, anxiety ( using non-addictive medications), post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorders, attention deficit disorders, and schizophrenia. I incorporate psychological, biological, and social factors into my approach to providing mental health care. I have a strong background working with patients diagnosed with mood disorders. I’m comfortable treating depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar, and schizoaffective disorder.
(440) 588-3125 View (440) 588-3125
Photo of Brenda Alexander-Oneil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brenda Alexander-Oneil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Brenda Alexander-O’Neil, and I am a PMHNP-BC. I have experience in a variety of clinical settings, including psychiatric inpatient units, outpatient units, psychiatric emergency rooms, and community mental health. In those settings, I have fulfilled multiple clinical roles and worked at internationally recognized institutions such as The Cleveland Clinic and Case Medical Center. I have also worked as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) across the United States in both rural and urban settings since 2016.
My name is Brenda Alexander-O’Neil, and I am a PMHNP-BC. I have experience in a variety of clinical settings, including psychiatric inpatient units, outpatient units, psychiatric emergency rooms, and community mental health. In those settings, I have fulfilled multiple clinical roles and worked at internationally recognized institutions such as The Cleveland Clinic and Case Medical Center. I have also worked as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) across the United States in both rural and urban settings since 2016.
(234) 259-5351 View (234) 259-5351
Photo of Dr. Sharon Hawout, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNM, PMHNP
Dr. Sharon Hawout
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNM, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by anxiety, ADHD, or mood changes, and is ready to find a way forward. As a former midwife, I have a special interest in caring for pregnant and postpartum women. You may be struggling to focus, keep up with responsibilities, or manage overwhelming emotions. Your goal is to feel more grounded, calm, and confident in daily life, with tools that actually work for you—not just temporary fixes.
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by anxiety, ADHD, or mood changes, and is ready to find a way forward. As a former midwife, I have a special interest in caring for pregnant and postpartum women. You may be struggling to focus, keep up with responsibilities, or manage overwhelming emotions. Your goal is to feel more grounded, calm, and confident in daily life, with tools that actually work for you—not just temporary fixes.
(330) 778-8328 View (330) 778-8328
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.
(330) 937-9520 View (330) 937-9520
Photo of Danny Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
(614) 963-3864 View (614) 963-3864
Photo of Anthony Shumway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, MSN
Anthony Shumway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, MSN
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with mood and anxiety disorders or ADHD. They may feel overwhelmed by their symptoms, seeking relief from persistent worry, sadness, or difficulty focusing. Their primary need is to find a compassionate and understanding professional who can offer effective strategies for managing their mental health. They aim to regain control over their lives, improve their emotional well-being, and achieve greater stability and focus in their daily activities. In my practice, I focus on strategic medication management to target these distressing psychiatric symptoms.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mood and anxiety disorders or ADHD. They may feel overwhelmed by their symptoms, seeking relief from persistent worry, sadness, or difficulty focusing. Their primary need is to find a compassionate and understanding professional who can offer effective strategies for managing their mental health. They aim to regain control over their lives, improve their emotional well-being, and achieve greater stability and focus in their daily activities. In my practice, I focus on strategic medication management to target these distressing psychiatric symptoms.
(234) 562-2598 View (234) 562-2598
Photo of Megan A Demos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Megan A Demos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Alliance, OH 44601
My philosophy is to treat others as I would want to be treated. It is my moral obligation to provide nonjudgmental care & support as I work in collaboration with my clients. I believe the treatment of psychiatric disorders should be holistic in nature, which may include, utilizing prescription medications, psychotherapy, vitamins, & other supplements. This whole-body approach should also incorporate lifestyle changes & wellness principles, such as- dietary changes, exercise, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, and social connection. I also believe that patient education and engagement is key in the healing process.
My philosophy is to treat others as I would want to be treated. It is my moral obligation to provide nonjudgmental care & support as I work in collaboration with my clients. I believe the treatment of psychiatric disorders should be holistic in nature, which may include, utilizing prescription medications, psychotherapy, vitamins, & other supplements. This whole-body approach should also incorporate lifestyle changes & wellness principles, such as- dietary changes, exercise, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, and social connection. I also believe that patient education and engagement is key in the healing process.
(330) 798-0491 View (330) 798-0491
Photo of Cherese Patterson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cherese Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Youngstown, OH 44505
Seeking mental health care can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve had difficult experiences in the past or aren’t sure where to start. My goal is to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, respected, and involved in your treatment decisions. I’ve worked in mental health care for many years, across acute care, long-term care, outpatient services, and community mental health settings. These experiences have shaped my belief that effective care begins with connection, trust, and understanding each person’s unique story.
Seeking mental health care can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve had difficult experiences in the past or aren’t sure where to start. My goal is to create a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel heard, respected, and involved in your treatment decisions. I’ve worked in mental health care for many years, across acute care, long-term care, outpatient services, and community mental health settings. These experiences have shaped my belief that effective care begins with connection, trust, and understanding each person’s unique story.
(234) 404-0943 View (234) 404-0943
Photo of Danny Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
(440) 693-3884 View (440) 693-3884
Photo of Suzanne Olesko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, LPC
Suzanne Olesko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, LPC
Online Only
At Sway, I work with adults facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, ADHD, and more—always tailoring care to each person’s unique needs and goals. You are not your mental illness and we will work together to help you understand your diagnosis and empower you to live the life you have always wanted to live. I help clients uncover root causes, develop practical coping tools, and restore balance.
At Sway, I work with adults facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, ADHD, and more—always tailoring care to each person’s unique needs and goals. You are not your mental illness and we will work together to help you understand your diagnosis and empower you to live the life you have always wanted to live. I help clients uncover root causes, develop practical coping tools, and restore balance.
(330) 353-8626 x803 View (330) 353-8626 x803

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Number of Psychiatrists in Newton Falls, OH

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Psychiatrists in Newton Falls, OH who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in Newton Falls, OH see their clients

2% Online Only
1% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Newton Falls?

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.