Psychiatrists in Plain City, OH

Photo of Michelle Kotte, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Kotte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Michelle Kotte is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Michelle has 4 years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Michelle worked for several years on an inpatient psychiatry unit. Michelle earned her doctorate in nursing from Duke University. She has two master's degrees in nursing from Capital University and The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in education from Ohio University and one in nursing from Capital University.
Michelle Kotte is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Michelle has 4 years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Michelle worked for several years on an inpatient psychiatry unit. Michelle earned her doctorate in nursing from Duke University. She has two master's degrees in nursing from Capital University and The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in education from Ohio University and one in nursing from Capital University.
(380) 888-2463 View (380) 888-2463
Photo of Danielle Khan - LifeStance Health, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
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 Mike Tichy, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mike Tichy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
(380) 205-0323 View (380) 205-0323
Photo of Anna Cherri, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anna Cherri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Anna Cherri is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ohio University. Anna comes from a very diverse background of caring for patients during periods of stability as well as crisis. She wants clients to know that their diagnosis is not as important as the whole person and their road to recovery and better living, however that may look. Anna never wants clients to feel as though there is a standard treatment protocol that she follows.
Anna Cherri is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ohio University. Anna comes from a very diverse background of caring for patients during periods of stability as well as crisis. She wants clients to know that their diagnosis is not as important as the whole person and their road to recovery and better living, however that may look. Anna never wants clients to feel as though there is a standard treatment protocol that she follows.
(380) 666-4575 View (380) 666-4575
Photo of Dr. Kyle Resnick - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
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 Kelli Warrens, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelli Warrens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Kelli Ann Warrens, an Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to helping patients in Ohio by providing personalized care and treatment plans for their mental health needs. Kelli collaborates closely with her patients, ensuring that their unique needs and goals are met with patience, kindness, and a nonjudgmental attitude. Specializing in PTSD and trauma, Kelli has a deep passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of these challenging experiences. She employs evidencebased therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support her patients in their journey towards healing and recovery.
Kelli Ann Warrens, an Advanced Practice Nurse at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to helping patients in Ohio by providing personalized care and treatment plans for their mental health needs. Kelli collaborates closely with her patients, ensuring that their unique needs and goals are met with patience, kindness, and a nonjudgmental attitude. Specializing in PTSD and trauma, Kelli has a deep passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of these challenging experiences. She employs evidencebased therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support her patients in their journey towards healing and recovery.
(844) 233-3895 View (844) 233-3895
Photo of Michele Cash, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michele Cash
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNS
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Dr. Michele Cash is a Doctorally-Prepared Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist And Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She earned a DNP at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Cash has more than two decades treating children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan in inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. She has extensive experience treating the full spectrum of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychotic conditions.
Dr. Michele Cash is a Doctorally-Prepared Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist And Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She earned a DNP at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Cash has more than two decades treating children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan in inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. She has extensive experience treating the full spectrum of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychotic conditions.
(614) 802-5666 View (614) 802-5666
Photo of Brian Howard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brian Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Brian Howard is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care of clients to promote optimal living within their environment. He received his post-masters as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Washburn University, his master's in nursing and family nurse practitioner from Eastern Kentucky University, and bachelor's in nursing from McKendree College. He has worked in private practice, emergency medicine, and public health.
Brian Howard is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care of clients to promote optimal living within their environment. He received his post-masters as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Washburn University, his master's in nursing and family nurse practitioner from Eastern Kentucky University, and bachelor's in nursing from McKendree College. He has worked in private practice, emergency medicine, and public health.
(380) 600-8922 View (380) 600-8922
Photo of Lisa Mascioli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Mascioli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(740) 660-3831 View (740) 660-3831
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(740) 660-3748 View (740) 660-3748
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(740) 761-2270 View (740) 761-2270

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kinsey Reeves, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kinsey Reeves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell, OH 43065
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
(614) 953-6088 View (614) 953-6088
Photo of Melissa Gelsomino, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Gelsomino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017  (Online Only)
Hi, and thank you for taking the time to invest in your mental health. Are you having a hard time balancing family, work, and life? Are you struggling with stress, avoidance and anxiety about the future? Are you just ready for a change and aren't sure how to make a plan of action?
Hi, and thank you for taking the time to invest in your mental health. Are you having a hard time balancing family, work, and life? Are you struggling with stress, avoidance and anxiety about the future? Are you just ready for a change and aren't sure how to make a plan of action?
(330) 778-4286 View (330) 778-4286
Photo of Jenna Jacobs, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Jenna Jacobs
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
(740) 619-4219 View (740) 619-4219
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(380) 210-4640 View (380) 210-4640
Photo of Rachael Faris, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachael Faris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell, OH 43065
My goal is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services offering personalized assessments, evidence-based treatments, and compassionate care. Specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Dedicated to fostering mental well-being through a holistic and patient-centered approach. Offers some weekend and evening appointments.
My goal is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services offering personalized assessments, evidence-based treatments, and compassionate care. Specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Dedicated to fostering mental well-being through a holistic and patient-centered approach. Offers some weekend and evening appointments.
(740) 306-4513 View (740) 306-4513
Photo of Mourine J Nyangoro, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mourine J Nyangoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
(614) 683-4373 View (614) 683-4373
Photo of Kyle Resnick, MD, Psychiatrist
Kyle Resnick
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hilliard, OH 43026
Dr. Kyle Resnick completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / SummaHealth, where he served as chief resident and earned the Intern of the Year award. During residency, Dr. Resnick gained experience working with adults in outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospital settings. He earned his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University and undergraduate degrees from Miami University of Ohio in zoology, neuroscience, and classical antiquities. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association.
Dr. Kyle Resnick completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / SummaHealth, where he served as chief resident and earned the Intern of the Year award. During residency, Dr. Resnick gained experience working with adults in outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospital settings. He earned his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University and undergraduate degrees from Miami University of Ohio in zoology, neuroscience, and classical antiquities. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association.
(380) 600-9319 View (380) 600-9319
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(380) 207-9014 View (380) 207-9014

See more therapy options for Plain City

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Plain City, OH

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Plain City, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
92% Anxiety
92% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Sleep or Insomnia
75% Medication Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
92% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Plain City, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Plain City?

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.