Psychiatrists in Toledo, OH

Photo of Tameshia Wiggins - Evolve Mental Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Evolve Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP-C
3 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43614
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
Talking to a stranger about your problems is very difficult and one of the most vulnerable things you can do. There is a lot of stigma surrounding getting help for mental health despite the cultural shift in our society to seek out professional assistance. I understand both all too well and don't take it lightly when someone reaches out to schedule with me. It is a very delicate time and I do my best to make sure you are comfortable and your needs are addressed. It is my objective to make sure you feel you are in a safe space and receive nonjudgmental evidence based care.
(419) 938-4259 View (419) 938-4259
Photo of Tiffiny Wicks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffiny Wicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toledo, OH 43623
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to offering holistic, client-centered care to individuals aged 6 and up. I believe in putting my clients at the center of their treatment, collaborating closely with them to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Each plan is thoughtfully tailored to address the unique needs of the individual. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together to improve their mental health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to offering holistic, client-centered care to individuals aged 6 and up. I believe in putting my clients at the center of their treatment, collaborating closely with them to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Each plan is thoughtfully tailored to address the unique needs of the individual. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together to improve their mental health.
(419) 658-7853 View (419) 658-7853
Photo of Kayla Jordan Peters, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kayla Jordan Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toledo, OH 43623
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I began my career as a nurse in Pediatrics and Pediatric Oncology before making the switch over to mental health. I love working with all ages, with a particular interest in children and adolescents, ages 7+ with mood disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and OCD. I believe in using a therapeutic approach to develop individualized plans of care with each patient based on their specific goals. This includes medication management and collaboration with the treatment team.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. I began my career as a nurse in Pediatrics and Pediatric Oncology before making the switch over to mental health. I love working with all ages, with a particular interest in children and adolescents, ages 7+ with mood disorders, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and OCD. I believe in using a therapeutic approach to develop individualized plans of care with each patient based on their specific goals. This includes medication management and collaboration with the treatment team.
(419) 780-6355 View (419) 780-6355
Photo of Latrice Waddell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Latrice Waddell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43614
Have you found yourself pondering the following questions recently on your journey to healing? How can I achieve well-being despite my psychiatric condition? How can I transform my outlook on life? How can I take control of my life? How can I let go of fear and eliminate barriers to achieving mental stability? What is the meaning of my life?How can I stand in my power and true authenticity? What can I do to support my mental health?
Have you found yourself pondering the following questions recently on your journey to healing? How can I achieve well-being despite my psychiatric condition? How can I transform my outlook on life? How can I take control of my life? How can I let go of fear and eliminate barriers to achieving mental stability? What is the meaning of my life?How can I stand in my power and true authenticity? What can I do to support my mental health?
(513) 643-5890 View (513) 643-5890
Photo of Stefanie Fox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Stefanie Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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. 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. 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 Brooke Palicki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Brooke Palicki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, RN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Thank you to all who have tried to contact me so far! I am not up and running quite yet...but I will be soon. I am keeping track of those who have contacted me, and I will connect with you soon. Stay tuned. Right now, I am able to update what insurance I take often and to let you know...it is changing all the time since I'm getting started, so do not worry, I will try my best to get you seen!
Thank you to all who have tried to contact me so far! I am not up and running quite yet...but I will be soon. I am keeping track of those who have contacted me, and I will connect with you soon. Stay tuned. Right now, I am able to update what insurance I take often and to let you know...it is changing all the time since I'm getting started, so do not worry, I will try my best to get you seen!
(419) 863-3535 View (419) 863-3535
Photo of Dr. Shazia J. Naqvi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Shazia J. Naqvi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am Dr. Shazia Naqvi, a board-certified adult psychiatrist with years of experience serving the state of Ohio. I am deeply passionate about my work and committed to providing evidence-based, high-quality care to my patients. I take a holistic approach to addressing their concerns, ensuring that we collaborate closely to create personalized treatment plans for their well-being.
I am Dr. Shazia Naqvi, a board-certified adult psychiatrist with years of experience serving the state of Ohio. I am deeply passionate about my work and committed to providing evidence-based, high-quality care to my patients. I take a holistic approach to addressing their concerns, ensuring that we collaborate closely to create personalized treatment plans for their well-being.
(419) 780-3382 View (419) 780-3382
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 Stephanie Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Stephanie Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Online Only
I am a big advocate for preventive medicine. There is value in educating patients to pursue wellness as well as the treatment of illness. My goal is to guide patients through their healthcare journey and find individualized solutions. I believe, as a healthcare provider, we can do right by our patients when we take to time to LISTEN to more than just complaints of symptoms. We should be taking in the patient’s biological and environmental background as well.
I am a big advocate for preventive medicine. There is value in educating patients to pursue wellness as well as the treatment of illness. My goal is to guide patients through their healthcare journey and find individualized solutions. I believe, as a healthcare provider, we can do right by our patients when we take to time to LISTEN to more than just complaints of symptoms. We should be taking in the patient’s biological and environmental background as well.
(419) 749-6020 View (419) 749-6020
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, Psychiatrist, MD
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Toledo, OH 43617
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (419) 318-1200 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely from your cell or computer. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (419) 318-1200 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(419) 318-1200 View (419) 318-1200
Photo of Dr. Olivetta Uradu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Olivetta Uradu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
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Photo of LaTisha Lindley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
LaTisha Lindley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) offering care to both adults and youth. My background includes Adult and Pediatric behavioral health, along with treatment for addiction/substance use. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, sleep disorders, or bipolar, I am here to help. I am here to help you improve you daily functioning and come up with a plan that best fits you.
Hello! I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) offering care to both adults and youth. My background includes Adult and Pediatric behavioral health, along with treatment for addiction/substance use. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, sleep disorders, or bipolar, I am here to help. I am here to help you improve you daily functioning and come up with a plan that best fits you.
(567) 749-6159 View (567) 749-6159
Sunforest Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Toledo, OH 43623
We are focused on clients with anxiety disorders, affective disorders, trauma related disorders, and somatization and pain disorders. We specialize in Geriatric Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Consulting Psychiatry and Independent Medical Evaluations for different pension and disability boards. Our staff encompasses 3 psychiatrists, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and we are in course of hiring 2 therapists. Our approach is client centered and we are not under any time constraints dedicating as much time as necessary to each client. You can learn more about each one of the providers at our Website at SunforestBehavioral.com and call to schedule an appointment at 419 7246567 or fax at 419 2141081. We return calls within 24-48 hours and do a short phone intake. The patients will fill several forms in our portal prior to their appointments. We are utmost sensitive to our patients' feedback and try to permanently improve ourselves.
We are focused on clients with anxiety disorders, affective disorders, trauma related disorders, and somatization and pain disorders. We specialize in Geriatric Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Consulting Psychiatry and Independent Medical Evaluations for different pension and disability boards. Our staff encompasses 3 psychiatrists, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and we are in course of hiring 2 therapists. Our approach is client centered and we are not under any time constraints dedicating as much time as necessary to each client. You can learn more about each one of the providers at our Website at SunforestBehavioral.com and call to schedule an appointment at 419 7246567 or fax at 419 2141081. We return calls within 24-48 hours and do a short phone intake. The patients will fill several forms in our portal prior to their appointments. We are utmost sensitive to our patients' feedback and try to permanently improve ourselves.
(419) 731-6536 View (419) 731-6536
Photo of Kevin Atwell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kevin Atwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m Kevin Atwell, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia. Before becoming a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, I had a variety of roles, including youth counselor for adolescents with autism, advocate for homeless women, and direct support professional for men with developmental disabilities.
I’m Kevin Atwell, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia. Before becoming a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, I had a variety of roles, including youth counselor for adolescents with autism, advocate for homeless women, and direct support professional for men with developmental disabilities.
(216) 516-7087 View (216) 516-7087
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.
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Photo of Dr. Zainab Saherwala, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Zainab Saherwala
Psychiatrist, DO
Toledo, OH 43615
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
Finding the 'why' behind each patient’s story is at the heart of Dr. Saherwala’s approach. To achieve this, she expertly blends psychodynamic therapy with a strategic use of medication management. Board-certified and dedicated, Dr. Saherwala looks beyond surface-level symptoms to find the root of challenges. With a patient-first approach, she thoroughly explores each case from social, medical, and psychological angles. You will feel truly seen and supported throughout your journey.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Ebrima Jatta, Psychiatric Nurse
Ebrima Jatta
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
Ebrima is a Board-Certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to patients ages 14+. Ebrima is a highly motivated, skilled, and qualified professional backed by 3+ years of provider service in mental health and addiction coupled with 15+ years of RN experience and a proven ability to deliver evidence-based care for patients across the lifespan with a broad range of physical and mental health needs.
Ebrima is a Board-Certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to patients ages 14+. Ebrima is a highly motivated, skilled, and qualified professional backed by 3+ years of provider service in mental health and addiction coupled with 15+ years of RN experience and a proven ability to deliver evidence-based care for patients across the lifespan with a broad range of physical and mental health needs.
(513) 643-9933 View (513) 643-9933
Photo of Kerri Pearch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kerri Pearch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Specialized in guiding youth, young adults and adults ages 10-60 through mental health challenges. If you are struggling with impaired daily functioning, have experienced trauma, but lack a formal diagnosis, I am here to help. By offering both diagnosis and medication management, we ensure each person receives the personalized care they need.
Specialized in guiding youth, young adults and adults ages 10-60 through mental health challenges. If you are struggling with impaired daily functioning, have experienced trauma, but lack a formal diagnosis, I am here to help. By offering both diagnosis and medication management, we ensure each person receives the personalized care they need.
(216) 340-9591 View (216) 340-9591
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) 434-6732 View (513) 434-6732
Photo of Erin Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
Erin Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
(513) 647-2182 View (513) 647-2182

See more therapy options for Toledo

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Toledo, OH

30+

Average cost per session

$140

Psychiatrists in Toledo, OH who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
91% Anxiety
91% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Medication Management
65% ADHD

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
97% Cigna and Evernorth
77% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Toledo, OH see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Toledo?

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.