Psychiatrists in North Jackson, OH

Photo of Melissa Novits, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Melissa Novits
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
North Jackson, OH 44451
Do you find yourself saying things like "Iam mentally exhausted, I have no motivation, Iam overwhelmed, my brain won't shut off, Iam not good enough? My name is Melissa. I too have these feelings from time to time. Life is interesting and often unfair. Let me help you tackle these negative emotions and unwanted feelings and together we can develop a sound treatment plan to get through the day-to-day obstacles of life. I love helping people help and themselves. I strive to help provide empowerment and the tools to motivate the body and mind. My goal is to help you focus on Mental Wellness verses Mental Illness from the inside out.
Do you find yourself saying things like "Iam mentally exhausted, I have no motivation, Iam overwhelmed, my brain won't shut off, Iam not good enough? My name is Melissa. I too have these feelings from time to time. Life is interesting and often unfair. Let me help you tackle these negative emotions and unwanted feelings and together we can develop a sound treatment plan to get through the day-to-day obstacles of life. I love helping people help and themselves. I strive to help provide empowerment and the tools to motivate the body and mind. My goal is to help you focus on Mental Wellness verses Mental Illness from the inside out.
(330) 355-8551 View (330) 355-8551

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jen Foren - Prism Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Prism Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are here to support you and your loved ones on your journey toward better mental health. We offer compassionate psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a wide range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more. We’re currently accepting new patients with minimal wait times, and our experienced team of providers is ready to help you feel heard, understood, and supported.
We are here to support you and your loved ones on your journey toward better mental health. We offer compassionate psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a wide range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more. We’re currently accepting new patients with minimal wait times, and our experienced team of providers is ready to help you feel heard, understood, and supported.
(330) 537-1685 View (330) 537-1685
Photo of Danny E. Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny E. 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.
(216) 340-9602 View (216) 340-9602
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
Photo of Kyle Guterba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Kyle Guterba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Austintown, OH 44515
Clients ranging from young to middle-aged and elder adulthood, presenting with acute, or chronic mental health conditions, and wish to improve their mental health & wellbeing. Sometimes overwhelmed by life's demands, affecting relationships or performance at work/ school. Seeking a safe, and non-judgmental space to express their thoughts, and feelings, & learn effective coping strategies, & discuss possible medication treatment options. Having treatment goals leading to improved self-awareness, and wellness while collaborating together creating a plan of care that leads to optimal and improved outcomes to their mental health.
Clients ranging from young to middle-aged and elder adulthood, presenting with acute, or chronic mental health conditions, and wish to improve their mental health & wellbeing. Sometimes overwhelmed by life's demands, affecting relationships or performance at work/ school. Seeking a safe, and non-judgmental space to express their thoughts, and feelings, & learn effective coping strategies, & discuss possible medication treatment options. Having treatment goals leading to improved self-awareness, and wellness while collaborating together creating a plan of care that leads to optimal and improved outcomes to their mental health.
(330) 778-8497 View (330) 778-8497
Photo of Jerret Kolesar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Jerret Kolesar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Warren, OH 44484
I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate challenges that hinder the experience of the beauty and joy of life. I look to build healthy and trustworthy relationships with clients in order to tackle some of life's most difficult issues. In a confidential and safe environment, I address areas of addiction, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, marital/premarital counseling, etc. I am able to address minor and major problems that are impeding you from experiencing your full potential.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate challenges that hinder the experience of the beauty and joy of life. I look to build healthy and trustworthy relationships with clients in order to tackle some of life's most difficult issues. In a confidential and safe environment, I address areas of addiction, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, marital/premarital counseling, etc. I am able to address minor and major problems that are impeding you from experiencing your full potential.
(234) 742-4495 View (234) 742-4495
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, Psychiatrist, MD
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
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.
(330) 222-3512 View (330) 222-3512
Photo of Hannah Kuhn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hannah Kuhn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Cortland, OH 44410
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Through my integrative approach, I utilize medication management, and lifestyle interventions to treat a variety of mental health issues across the lifespan. My ultimate goal is to help people achieve mental wellness and empower patients with the skills and resources needed to live a fulfilling life.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Through my integrative approach, I utilize medication management, and lifestyle interventions to treat a variety of mental health issues across the lifespan. My ultimate goal is to help people achieve mental wellness and empower patients with the skills and resources needed to live a fulfilling life.
(234) 233-7193 View (234) 233-7193
Photo of Miquita C Hosey, Physician Assistant, DMS, PA-C
Miquita C Hosey
Physician Assistant, DMS, PA-C
Youngstown, OH 44512
I am an experienced child, adolescent and adult prescriber for mental health. I have over a decades experience as a medical physician assistant in hospitals, outpatient, school based and residential facilities. I am a patient-focused and empathetic caregiver. I am well equipped to provide medication management in a comfortable setting, both in office or virtually through our telehealth platform. I am trained in the latest treatment techniques including TMS, Spravato and Ketamine for treatment resistant disorders.
I am an experienced child, adolescent and adult prescriber for mental health. I have over a decades experience as a medical physician assistant in hospitals, outpatient, school based and residential facilities. I am a patient-focused and empathetic caregiver. I am well equipped to provide medication management in a comfortable setting, both in office or virtually through our telehealth platform. I am trained in the latest treatment techniques including TMS, Spravato and Ketamine for treatment resistant disorders.
(330) 366-8579 View (330) 366-8579
Photo of Diana L. Isaacs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Diana L. Isaacs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
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 Jennifer Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Columbiana, OH 44408
I strive to provide a place of comfort and safety, free of judgment or demands. I see myself as part of your treatment team. I provide education, options, and support. I will help you set goals and we work together to achieve these. I have successfully helped clients achieve remission of their depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and psychosis. You will be treated as an individual and will be given the respect and consideration you deserve.
I strive to provide a place of comfort and safety, free of judgment or demands. I see myself as part of your treatment team. I provide education, options, and support. I will help you set goals and we work together to achieve these. I have successfully helped clients achieve remission of their depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and psychosis. You will be treated as an individual and will be given the respect and consideration you deserve.
(330) 964-5150 View (330) 964-5150
Photo of Breanna Millsap, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNPBC
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Minerva, OH 44657
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your consultation today.
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your consultation today.
(603) 207-2135 View (603) 207-2135
Photo of Rebekah Rubesich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Rebekah Rubesich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Warren, OH 44484
Rebekah Rubesich is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a wide range of mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and trauma-focused care for children, adolescents, and adults. With a particular passion for women’s mental health and perinatal psychiatry, Rebekah provides expert guidance for postpartum depression, anxiety, infertility, and loss.
Rebekah Rubesich is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a wide range of mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and trauma-focused care for children, adolescents, and adults. With a particular passion for women’s mental health and perinatal psychiatry, Rebekah provides expert guidance for postpartum depression, anxiety, infertility, and loss.
(330) 446-3739 View (330) 446-3739
Photo of Lisa Mascioli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lisa Mascioli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Lisa is committed to delivering compassionate care to all clients. My mission is to promote warmth and kindness in the community by providing integrative psychiatric care that includes medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions. I am honored to be a part your journey towards wellness and look forward to serving you with the professionalism
Lisa is committed to delivering compassionate care to all clients. My mission is to promote warmth and kindness in the community by providing integrative psychiatric care that includes medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions. I am honored to be a part your journey towards wellness and look forward to serving you with the professionalism
(740) 480-3904 View (740) 480-3904
Photo of Stphanie Ann Stecker - Aspire Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP-BC, PMHNP
Aspire Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP-BC, PMHNP
Salem, OH 44460
I am a strong believer in psychotherapy combined with medication management to achieve optimal mental health wellness. I am dedicated to understanding each client’s life experiences, traumas and personal holistic health goals. I also value the relationship between provider and client and will strive to build a foundation of trust, openness, and understanding to guide clients through a healthy and active life. Every treatment will be individualized, and I will pay special attention to holistic care and treat every patient with compassion. Age range of patients served: 17 years and older
I am a strong believer in psychotherapy combined with medication management to achieve optimal mental health wellness. I am dedicated to understanding each client’s life experiences, traumas and personal holistic health goals. I also value the relationship between provider and client and will strive to build a foundation of trust, openness, and understanding to guide clients through a healthy and active life. Every treatment will be individualized, and I will pay special attention to holistic care and treat every patient with compassion. Age range of patients served: 17 years and older
(330) 859-6213 View (330) 859-6213
Photo of Shannon Milliken, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Shannon Milliken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406
Throughout my 20 year career in healthcare I have come to appreciate that patients desire a healthcare provider that listens to their needs, validates their message and understands their concerns. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In my practice I strive to have a therapeutic alliance with all my patients. I believe that the patient is a vital member of the health care team and a key component of creating a patient plan of care that is patient focused and patient centered.
Throughout my 20 year career in healthcare I have come to appreciate that patients desire a healthcare provider that listens to their needs, validates their message and understands their concerns. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In my practice I strive to have a therapeutic alliance with all my patients. I believe that the patient is a vital member of the health care team and a key component of creating a patient plan of care that is patient focused and patient centered.
(330) 975-8891 View (330) 975-8891
Photo of Madison Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Madison Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Canfield, OH 44406
Are you feeling stressed, sad, overwhelmed, or exhausted from trying to navigate life? I am here to help! I’m Madison Taylor, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Co-owner of MindWell Psychiatry LLC. I offer longer appointment times because, let’s face it, navigating life’s chaos deserves more than a 15-minute chat. We will work together to create a personalized plan, using my experience to help fine-tune medications for the best results. My goal is for you to leave my office feeling like you’ve got your mental health toolkit fully stocked—confident, informed, and ready to take on the world (or at least the day)!
Are you feeling stressed, sad, overwhelmed, or exhausted from trying to navigate life? I am here to help! I’m Madison Taylor, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Co-owner of MindWell Psychiatry LLC. I offer longer appointment times because, let’s face it, navigating life’s chaos deserves more than a 15-minute chat. We will work together to create a personalized plan, using my experience to help fine-tune medications for the best results. My goal is for you to leave my office feeling like you’ve got your mental health toolkit fully stocked—confident, informed, and ready to take on the world (or at least the day)!
(234) 368-2772 View (234) 368-2772
Photo of Jessie Maumburudze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessie Maumburudze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hi! I am dual Board certified in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master's in Nursing degree and post graduate degree at Ursuline College, Ohio. I have been practicing as a Certified Nurse Practitioner for nine years. I have a great passion to help adult patients experiencing anxiety, depression, sleeping problems and various mood disorders get better and live a quality life.
Hi! I am dual Board certified in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master's in Nursing degree and post graduate degree at Ursuline College, Ohio. I have been practicing as a Certified Nurse Practitioner for nine years. I have a great passion to help adult patients experiencing anxiety, depression, sleeping problems and various mood disorders get better and live a quality life.
(234) 278-2622 View (234) 278-2622
Photo of Tiffani Gallimore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Tiffani Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
(614) 918-4500 View (614) 918-4500
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

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in North Jackson, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in North Jackson, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

13 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in North Jackson, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in North Jackson?

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.