Psychiatrists in Orient, OH

Photo of Jennifer Eckhardt, ARPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Eckhardt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN
Verified Verified
Orient, OH 43146
Jennifer Eckhardt is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, board certified from the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in nursing at Wright State University. Prior to receiving her PMHNP, she has over 18 years of experience as a nurse working in addiction in pregnancy, inpatient behavioral health, and labor and delivery. While working as a nurse in addiction, she felt the need to further her education about mental health disorders in order to make an impact within this community.
Jennifer Eckhardt is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, board certified from the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in nursing at Wright State University. Prior to receiving her PMHNP, she has over 18 years of experience as a nurse working in addiction in pregnancy, inpatient behavioral health, and labor and delivery. While working as a nurse in addiction, she felt the need to further her education about mental health disorders in order to make an impact within this community.
(740) 761-2725 View (740) 761-2725
Photo of Jennifer Eckhardt - LifeStance Health, ARPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN
Verified Verified
Orient, OH 43146
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 671-0369 View (844) 671-0369
Photo of Nan MacLean, NP,  APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nan MacLean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, APRN
Verified Verified
Orient, OH 43146
Nan MacLean is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Nan has a comprehensive approach to mental health with compassion and understanding. Nan has a primary focus on mental health care through healthy lifestyles, mindfulness, personal empowerment, and medication management. She specializes in trauma-informed care and self-actualization. Before pursuing her dreams in the medical field, Nan has a bachelor's degree in biochemistry and a master's degree in biology.
Nan MacLean is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Nan has a comprehensive approach to mental health with compassion and understanding. Nan has a primary focus on mental health care through healthy lifestyles, mindfulness, personal empowerment, and medication management. She specializes in trauma-informed care and self-actualization. Before pursuing her dreams in the medical field, Nan has a bachelor's degree in biochemistry and a master's degree in biology.
(614) 683-4309 View (614) 683-4309

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kelcie Fraley, MSN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelcie Fraley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Kelcie and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that is tailored to each patient's unique needs. I will work closely with you to find evidence-based solutions that align with your preferences and values.
Hello! My name is Kelcie and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that is tailored to each patient's unique needs. I will work closely with you to find evidence-based solutions that align with your preferences and values.
(740) 679-6738 View (740) 679-6738
Photo of Lauren Brown, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients in Ohio 7 and up. Virtual visits allow for you to be in the most comfortable space for you. (Not anyone else). I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Ohio providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management services, as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide variety of mental health issues and disorders. I have special interests in treatment of ADHD, Adult ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, as well as working together to help you heal.
Welcome! GentlePsych is an online telepsychiatry practice seeing patients in Ohio 7 and up. Virtual visits allow for you to be in the most comfortable space for you. (Not anyone else). I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Ohio providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management services, as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide variety of mental health issues and disorders. I have special interests in treatment of ADHD, Adult ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, as well as working together to help you heal.
(740) 791-0013 View (740) 791-0013
Photo of Christabel Ahenkan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christabel Ahenkan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
I pride myself on centering as a holistic mental health provider and strive to support individuals in their journey towards emotional well-being and mental health. My mission is to provide accessible and effective mental health services to all individuals. I believe that everyone has the right to access quality mental health care, and I am committed to making that a reality. I offer services to support individuals in achieving optimal mental health and wellness. Our team of dedicated and experienced mental health professionals is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those in need.
I pride myself on centering as a holistic mental health provider and strive to support individuals in their journey towards emotional well-being and mental health. My mission is to provide accessible and effective mental health services to all individuals. I believe that everyone has the right to access quality mental health care, and I am committed to making that a reality. I offer services to support individuals in achieving optimal mental health and wellness. Our team of dedicated and experienced mental health professionals is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those in need.
(380) 333-5765 View (380) 333-5765
Photo of Linda Griffin Nsombi, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Griffin Nsombi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Linda Griffin Nsombi, I’ve worked in mental health for many years. Caring for clients of all ages and backgrounds as well as drug/alcohol addiction treatment. Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD and more. I look forward to assisting you with your life challenges. I will provide medication education as well as supportive therapy during medication management visit.
My name is Linda Griffin Nsombi, I’ve worked in mental health for many years. Caring for clients of all ages and backgrounds as well as drug/alcohol addiction treatment. Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD and more. I look forward to assisting you with your life challenges. I will provide medication education as well as supportive therapy during medication management visit.
(513) 540-2170 View (513) 540-2170
Photo of Kelly LaPointe, NP,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly LaPointe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
Kelly LaPointe is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from The Ohio State University, a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing, and an Associate of Science in Nursing from Ohio University. Kelly has more than 2 decades of nursing experience in the psychiatric field, ranging from child to adult inpatient care to community mental health crisis stabilization as well as many years in medical critical care settings.
Kelly LaPointe is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from The Ohio State University, a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing, and an Associate of Science in Nursing from Ohio University. Kelly has more than 2 decades of nursing experience in the psychiatric field, ranging from child to adult inpatient care to community mental health crisis stabilization as well as many years in medical critical care settings.
(614) 482-2848 View (614) 482-2848
Photo of Scott Yoho, DO, Psychiatrist
Scott Yoho
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
No wait time for appointments - we believe patients deserve access to real time mental health care Did you know Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center treats patients 13 years of age and older? This age group is severely underserved in the mental health community, and our goal is to provide real time mental health care for all.  Online appointments available now for adolescents in need! Serving Ohio through the convenience of online appointments and a growing network of locations.
No wait time for appointments - we believe patients deserve access to real time mental health care Did you know Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center treats patients 13 years of age and older? This age group is severely underserved in the mental health community, and our goal is to provide real time mental health care for all.  Online appointments available now for adolescents in need! Serving Ohio through the convenience of online appointments and a growing network of locations.
(614) 682-2383 View (614) 682-2383
Columbus Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hilliard, OH 43026
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and adult psychiatry. My services include the diagnosis and treatment of all mental illnesses in children/adolescents/adult including, but not limited to, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders and PTSD. I am also interested in treating women who are pregnant/postpartum, and nursing. I am comfortable in the setting of treating co-morbid medical and psychiatric concerns. I only utilize medication when necessary.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and adult psychiatry. My services include the diagnosis and treatment of all mental illnesses in children/adolescents/adult including, but not limited to, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders and PTSD. I am also interested in treating women who are pregnant/postpartum, and nursing. I am comfortable in the setting of treating co-morbid medical and psychiatric concerns. I only utilize medication when necessary.
(614) 972-1256 View (614) 972-1256
Photo of Ivana Balic - Keystone Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Keystone Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
(614) 820-5241 View (614) 820-5241
Photo of Emily Rees, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Rees
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
After hours and weekend availability! Not feeling your best self? Tired of struggling? Admitting that you need help and then seeking that help are tough things to do. So, kudos to you! You’re here and we are going to walk through this journey together. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a mental health disorder in the past or are looking for evaluation, I am here for you.
After hours and weekend availability! Not feeling your best self? Tired of struggling? Admitting that you need help and then seeking that help are tough things to do. So, kudos to you! You’re here and we are going to walk through this journey together. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a mental health disorder in the past or are looking for evaluation, I am here for you.
(740) 883-3996 View (740) 883-3996
Photo of Ramona Bhatt, DO, Psychiatrist
Ramona Bhatt
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
(614) 418-6712 View (614) 418-6712
Photo of Ashley Collins, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Collins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
I provide holistic care for children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My approach goes beyond just medication and focuses on proper nutrition, lifestyle changes, and instilling good coping skills in children, to equip them with the tools to face life’s challenges with resilience and strength. I have extensive experience treating children struggling with trauma and co-occurring conditions, and I also specialize in supporting military families navigating the unique stresses, uncertainties, and challenges that come with military life and deployment.
I provide holistic care for children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My approach goes beyond just medication and focuses on proper nutrition, lifestyle changes, and instilling good coping skills in children, to equip them with the tools to face life’s challenges with resilience and strength. I have extensive experience treating children struggling with trauma and co-occurring conditions, and I also specialize in supporting military families navigating the unique stresses, uncertainties, and challenges that come with military life and deployment.
(614) 714-5981 View (614) 714-5981
Photo of Autumn Persinger, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Autumn Persinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have previous nursing experience in critical care, emergency medicine, inpatient psychiatry, and inpatient detox. I also have specialized trauma-informed care training in the role as a sexual assault nurse examiner. Currently I am also enrolled in a functional psychiatry program to expand my knowledge on nutritional deficiencies and genetic variations that could be contributing to mental health symptoms.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have previous nursing experience in critical care, emergency medicine, inpatient psychiatry, and inpatient detox. I also have specialized trauma-informed care training in the role as a sexual assault nurse examiner. Currently I am also enrolled in a functional psychiatry program to expand my knowledge on nutritional deficiencies and genetic variations that could be contributing to mental health symptoms.
(614) 683-4670 View (614) 683-4670
Photo of Ernestine A Tasong - CFF Medical & Behavioral Health, LLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
CFF Medical & Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am Dr. Ernestine Tasong, a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner. Have you reviewed my profile? I'd love to schedule our first session to learn more about the support you need! You can also call or text me at 614-421-7969. Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and a family nurse practitioner (FNP) provider in the state of Ohio, WA and MA. She specialized in depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, PTSD, social anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia and much more.
Hello, I am Dr. Ernestine Tasong, a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner. Have you reviewed my profile? I'd love to schedule our first session to learn more about the support you need! You can also call or text me at 614-421-7969. Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and a family nurse practitioner (FNP) provider in the state of Ohio, WA and MA. She specialized in depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, PTSD, social anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and schizophrenia and much more.
(614) 963-9533 View (614) 963-9533
Photo of Melissa Lopez-Larson, MD, Psychiatrist
Melissa Lopez-Larson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43210
Don't wait 2 weeks, now seeing patients in person at her new Independence, Ohio office. Now offering TMS and Ketamine therapy. Telepsychiatry also available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
Don't wait 2 weeks, now seeing patients in person at her new Independence, Ohio office. Now offering TMS and Ketamine therapy. Telepsychiatry also available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
(216) 626-7742 View (216) 626-7742
Photo of Joshua Ndematebem, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joshua Ndematebem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Blacklick, OH 43004
Joshua is a down-to-earth and welcoming psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is skilled in medication management for adolescents and adults with mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, stress and trauma-related disorders, schizophrenia, and addiction related disorders (non-opioid) and others. He is experienced in outpatient and inpatient treatment modalities
Joshua is a down-to-earth and welcoming psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is skilled in medication management for adolescents and adults with mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, stress and trauma-related disorders, schizophrenia, and addiction related disorders (non-opioid) and others. He is experienced in outpatient and inpatient treatment modalities
(740) 527-6440 View (740) 527-6440
Photo of Lisa Mascioli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Mascioli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plain City, OH 43064
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 Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, PMHNP, offers a wide range of services to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She provides medication management and individual therapy, helping her patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Ifeoma’s compassionate care and expertise spans a variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. She is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues and helping individuals manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, PMHNP, offers a wide range of services to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She provides medication management and individual therapy, helping her patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Ifeoma’s compassionate care and expertise spans a variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. She is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues and helping individuals manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
(614) 412-1691 View (614) 412-1691

See more therapy options for Orient

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Orient, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Orient, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
67% Grief
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Orient, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Orient?

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.