Psychiatrists in Oregon, OH

Photo of Jennifer Cochran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Cochran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
8 Endorsed
Oregon, OH 43616
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in both Ohio and Florida. I am dedicated to making a difference in my patients lives! I evaluate and screen for various mental health conditions and determine if medication is the right route for treatment, then adjust those medications in a safe manner. My passion is helping patients achieve balance in their daily life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. I want to help you achieve stability and help you grow! I provide a safe space, am LGBTQA+ friendly, and provide care in a non-judgmental manner. Your goals are my goals!
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in both Ohio and Florida. I am dedicated to making a difference in my patients lives! I evaluate and screen for various mental health conditions and determine if medication is the right route for treatment, then adjust those medications in a safe manner. My passion is helping patients achieve balance in their daily life by decreasing their mental health symptoms. I want to help you achieve stability and help you grow! I provide a safe space, am LGBTQA+ friendly, and provide care in a non-judgmental manner. Your goals are my goals!
(727) 610-8533 View (727) 610-8533
Photo of Andrene Benjamin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Andrene Benjamin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who appears to hold it all together on the outside but feels overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck on the inside. They may be navigating life transitions, trauma, ADHD, or persistent low mood, and they’re ready for change. They’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a safe space to be fully heard and supported.
My ideal client is someone who appears to hold it all together on the outside but feels overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck on the inside. They may be navigating life transitions, trauma, ADHD, or persistent low mood, and they’re ready for change. They’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a safe space to be fully heard and supported.
(971) 391-2329 View (971) 391-2329

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cale Charles Streeter, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Cale Charles Streeter
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
Availability within 7 days. Cale C. Streeter M.D., Ph.D. is a board certified Psychiatrist that provides medication management. He listens to his clients symptoms and concerns. Collaboration with clients leads to effective evidence based treatment plans.
Availability within 7 days. Cale C. Streeter M.D., Ph.D. is a board certified Psychiatrist that provides medication management. He listens to his clients symptoms and concerns. Collaboration with clients leads to effective evidence based treatment plans.
(419) 637-4377 View (419) 637-4377
Photo of Nikki Mendoza, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nikki Mendoza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck—unsure why things feel harder than they used to. Perhaps you’re struggling with mood changes, ADHD, or the weight of daily stress, life transitions, or relationship challenges. You want to feel like yourself again, to be heard without judgment, and to find real relief—not just quick fixes. You may be seeking clarity, balance, and a sense of control over your mental health, with support from someone who truly listens and understands your experience.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck—unsure why things feel harder than they used to. Perhaps you’re struggling with mood changes, ADHD, or the weight of daily stress, life transitions, or relationship challenges. You want to feel like yourself again, to be heard without judgment, and to find real relief—not just quick fixes. You may be seeking clarity, balance, and a sense of control over your mental health, with support from someone who truly listens and understands your experience.
(614) 881-2374 View (614) 881-2374
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.
(330) 919-6098 View (330) 919-6098
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation 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 holistically treated and cared for. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation 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 holistically treated and cared for. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
(513) 450-8572 View (513) 450-8572
Photo of Stefanie Fox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Stefanie Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Holland, OH 43528
Stefanie Fox, MSN-Ed, APRN-CNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dually board certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health accepting new patients in Ohio, New Hampshire, and Colorado. She also has licensure pending in multiple other states, which will be added to availability soon. She has dedicated greater than 10 years to providing patient-centered care across various settings, including emergency medicine, critical care transport, primary care, inpatient detox, residential treatment, corrections, and outpatient mental health care. She is currently working on certification in Functional Medicine as well.
Stefanie Fox, MSN-Ed, APRN-CNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dually board certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health accepting new patients in Ohio, New Hampshire, and Colorado. She also has licensure pending in multiple other states, which will be added to availability soon. She has dedicated greater than 10 years to providing patient-centered care across various settings, including emergency medicine, critical care transport, primary care, inpatient detox, residential treatment, corrections, and outpatient mental health care. She is currently working on certification in Functional Medicine as well.
(419) 495-8673 View (419) 495-8673
Photo of Jacquel McCadney - Sisters of Hope in Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Sisters of Hope in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
We are looking to work with various populations within mental health, to break stigmas and promote overall health.
We are looking to work with various populations within mental health, to break stigmas and promote overall health.
(419) 614-6033 View (419) 614-6033
Photo of Queen Ajiere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Queen Ajiere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Accepting new patients for telehealth or in-office visits in Illinois
Accepting new patients for telehealth or in-office visits in Illinois
(331) 236-6212 View (331) 236-6212
Photo of Kenneth R Kowalski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, PMHNP
Kenneth R Kowalski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, PMHNP
Sylvania, OH 43560
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re already carrying a lot. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, mood changes, burnout, or just feel “off,” you don’t have to navigate it alone. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported without judgment.
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re already carrying a lot. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, mood changes, burnout, or just feel “off,” you don’t have to navigate it alone. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported without judgment.
(419) 664-8355 View (419) 664-8355
Photo of Celestine Ateafacktaleh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, APRN, Ohio
Celestine Ateafacktaleh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, APRN, Ohio
Online Only
I am a psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, seeing patients all over Ohio. I educate patients and families about their diagnoses, reduce stigma and advocate for patients with mental health problems, I accept all adult who realized the have a problem and need someone to evaluate them, create and individualized treatment plan and involve patients in their treatment plan and decision making. I do follow up, manage patients' medications to make sure they reach their treatment goal and function well in the home and community.
I am a psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, seeing patients all over Ohio. I educate patients and families about their diagnoses, reduce stigma and advocate for patients with mental health problems, I accept all adult who realized the have a problem and need someone to evaluate them, create and individualized treatment plan and involve patients in their treatment plan and decision making. I do follow up, manage patients' medications to make sure they reach their treatment goal and function well in the home and community.
(740) 913-4838 View (740) 913-4838
Photo of Theresa Marie Mills, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Theresa Marie Mills
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Theresa Mills MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is accepting New Patients in Ohio, New Hampshire and Arizona! Theresa is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center with 5 years of experience in treating ADHD, Bipolar, PTSD, mood disorders, and Anxiety. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Toledo, in Toledo, Ohio. Theresa has worked as an ER nurse for 15 years, which has helped her illustrate the gap between medical and psychiatric care, and how the mind/body connection is often ignored. These gaps pushed her to obtain her psychiatric nurse practitioner degree.
Theresa Mills MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is accepting New Patients in Ohio, New Hampshire and Arizona! Theresa is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center with 5 years of experience in treating ADHD, Bipolar, PTSD, mood disorders, and Anxiety. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Toledo, in Toledo, Ohio. Theresa has worked as an ER nurse for 15 years, which has helped her illustrate the gap between medical and psychiatric care, and how the mind/body connection is often ignored. These gaps pushed her to obtain her psychiatric nurse practitioner degree.
(419) 823-9752 View (419) 823-9752
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Toledo, OH 43615
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Breanna Millsap - Breanna Millsap MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC
Breanna Millsap MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN , PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43606
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! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. 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 free 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! She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. 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 free consultation today!
(419) 637-4345 View (419) 637-4345
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.
(440) 659-1653 View (440) 659-1653
Photo of Sreekanth V. Indurti, Psychiatrist, MD
Sreekanth V. Indurti
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
For more than 40 years, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. My approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and a deep belief in the resilience of the human spirit. I welcome clients from all walks of life, because I believe that quality mental health care should be accessible to everyone, without limitation. I provide psychiatric services that include diagnostic evaluations and medication management.
For more than 40 years, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. My approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and a deep belief in the resilience of the human spirit. I welcome clients from all walks of life, because I believe that quality mental health care should be accessible to everyone, without limitation. I provide psychiatric services that include diagnostic evaluations and medication management.
(567) 226-3834 View (567) 226-3834
Photo of Pamela Pardon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Pamela Pardon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Pamela D. Pardõn, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and sole proprietor of Pearls of Wisdom Psychiatric Services LLC, established in August 2019, located in Lorain, Ohio. Pamela began her nursing career as an LPN, eventually earning a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing across the life span at Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Pamela has been a nurse for over 40 years. Pamela has delivered psychiatric care to individuals on inpatient and outpatient behavioral health units; provided support to callers on the 24-hour Crisis Hotline Services; and served as a team member of a community mental.
Pamela D. Pardõn, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and sole proprietor of Pearls of Wisdom Psychiatric Services LLC, established in August 2019, located in Lorain, Ohio. Pamela began her nursing career as an LPN, eventually earning a master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing across the life span at Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Pamela has been a nurse for over 40 years. Pamela has delivered psychiatric care to individuals on inpatient and outpatient behavioral health units; provided support to callers on the 24-hour Crisis Hotline Services; and served as a team member of a community mental.
(614) 756-3035 View (614) 756-3035
Photo of Jessica Asher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FNP
Jessica Asher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FNP
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43606
Life can feel like a lot sometimes- work, family, relationships, or just keeping your own head above water. I work with teens, new parents, LGBTQ+ clients, and neurodivergent individuals, as well as anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or OCD. My goal is simple: help you feel heard, supported, and more in control of your life. I focus on understanding the whole person- not just the symptoms. Every appointment is an opportunity to learn about what’s going on in your life, what matters to you, and how your mental health fits into your day-to-day.
Life can feel like a lot sometimes- work, family, relationships, or just keeping your own head above water. I work with teens, new parents, LGBTQ+ clients, and neurodivergent individuals, as well as anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or OCD. My goal is simple: help you feel heard, supported, and more in control of your life. I focus on understanding the whole person- not just the symptoms. Every appointment is an opportunity to learn about what’s going on in your life, what matters to you, and how your mental health fits into your day-to-day.
(419) 574-6079 View (419) 574-6079
Photo of Michelle McBride, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michelle McBride
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m Dr. Michelle S. McBride, DNP, PMHNP-BC, MBA, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Rush University in Chicago, IL. Before obtaining my doctorate, I was a board-certified psychiatric registered nurse, gaining extensive experience across various clinical settings, including inpatient psychiatry, psychiatric emergency services, community behavioral health, and forensic psychiatry (jail-based care).
I’m Dr. Michelle S. McBride, DNP, PMHNP-BC, MBA, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Rush University in Chicago, IL. Before obtaining my doctorate, I was a board-certified psychiatric registered nurse, gaining extensive experience across various clinical settings, including inpatient psychiatry, psychiatric emergency services, community behavioral health, and forensic psychiatry (jail-based care).
(419) 359-3405 View (419) 359-3405
Photo of Carlos Estrada, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Carlos Estrada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by Anxiety, Depression, or ADHD? I provide expert Medication Management and therapy for adults and youth in Ohio. If you are struggling with Anxiety, ADHD, or Depression, you deserve a space where you feel heard and empowered. I work comfortably with both youth and adults. I am skilled in virtual psychiatry, offering psychotherapy and Medication Management to meet the diverse needs. I am passionate about helping others find peace, balance, and the ability to pursue fulfilling lives. I value learning about new cultures and perspectives!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by Anxiety, Depression, or ADHD? I provide expert Medication Management and therapy for adults and youth in Ohio. If you are struggling with Anxiety, ADHD, or Depression, you deserve a space where you feel heard and empowered. I work comfortably with both youth and adults. I am skilled in virtual psychiatry, offering psychotherapy and Medication Management to meet the diverse needs. I am passionate about helping others find peace, balance, and the ability to pursue fulfilling lives. I value learning about new cultures and perspectives!
(419) 515-4603 View (419) 515-4603

See more therapy options for Oregon

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Oregon, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Oregon, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use
100% Alcohol Use
100% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Oregon, OH see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Oregon?

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.