Psychiatrists in Twinsburg, OH

Photo of Steven Long, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Steven Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Twinsburg, OH 44087
Steven Long PMHNP, BC graduated from Walden University with a master’s degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric treatment. Steve has worked in this role for 1 year and previously has 3 years’ experience as an RN on an acute care adult psychiatric facility. In the past year Steve has worked with individuals ranging from 15 to 92 years of age, offering a broad-spectrum of care. Individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism among other mental health ailments can be confident in the care provided by Steve.
Steven Long PMHNP, BC graduated from Walden University with a master’s degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric treatment. Steve has worked in this role for 1 year and previously has 3 years’ experience as an RN on an acute care adult psychiatric facility. In the past year Steve has worked with individuals ranging from 15 to 92 years of age, offering a broad-spectrum of care. Individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism among other mental health ailments can be confident in the care provided by Steve.
(234) 414-5473 View (234) 414-5473
Photo of Andrew Kreger, Psychiatrist, DO
Andrew Kreger
Psychiatrist, DO
Twinsburg, OH 44087
Dr. Kreger is a child & adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mental health issues in children, adolescents, and young adults. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After attending medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Kreger completed his general psychiatry training at The University of Toledo, where he served as chief resident. Dr. Kreger then completed fellowship training in child & adolescent psychiatry at University Hospitals/Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital
Dr. Kreger is a child & adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mental health issues in children, adolescents, and young adults. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After attending medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Kreger completed his general psychiatry training at The University of Toledo, where he served as chief resident. Dr. Kreger then completed fellowship training in child & adolescent psychiatry at University Hospitals/Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital
(234) 339-3924 View (234) 339-3924
Photo of Karen Steffes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Karen Steffes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Twinsburg, OH 44087
Karen Steffes is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has six years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse and over two years as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her both her master's degree in nursing and her bachelor's degree in nursing from University of Akron. She has worked with patients who range in age from 6-75 in multiple settings including inpatient, outpatient, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs. She works with both individuals and families to provide medication management and patient education with a goal of achieving optimal mental health.
Karen Steffes is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has six years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse and over two years as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her both her master's degree in nursing and her bachelor's degree in nursing from University of Akron. She has worked with patients who range in age from 6-75 in multiple settings including inpatient, outpatient, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs. She works with both individuals and families to provide medication management and patient education with a goal of achieving optimal mental health.
(234) 595-2118 View (234) 595-2118
Photo of Taylor Fredrickson, Psychiatrist, MD
Taylor Fredrickson
Psychiatrist, MD
Twinsburg, OH 44087
Dr. Taylor Fredrickson is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2019. He has a Bachelor of Science from Kent State University, a Doctor of Medicine from Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University, did his Residency in Psychiatry at SUMMA Health System/Cleveland Clinic Akron General, and was Chief Resident at SUMMA Health System/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Psychiatry Residency Program. Dr. Fredrickson believes in medication management and individual psychotherapy for any/all psychiatric conditions. His psychotherapy style is a blend of personal centered therapy and experiential therapy.
Dr. Taylor Fredrickson is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2019. He has a Bachelor of Science from Kent State University, a Doctor of Medicine from Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University, did his Residency in Psychiatry at SUMMA Health System/Cleveland Clinic Akron General, and was Chief Resident at SUMMA Health System/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Psychiatry Residency Program. Dr. Fredrickson believes in medication management and individual psychotherapy for any/all psychiatric conditions. His psychotherapy style is a blend of personal centered therapy and experiential therapy.
(234) 351-3205 View (234) 351-3205
Photo of Molly Hockin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Molly Hockin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-NP
Twinsburg, OH 44087
Molly is particularly passionate about treating ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. She supports clients in managing the effects of trauma, navigating mood disorders, and addressing the challenges of both adolescent and adult mental health. By combining medication management with therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques, she helps clients develop practical coping strategies, enhance emotional regulation, and improve overall quality of life.
Molly is particularly passionate about treating ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. She supports clients in managing the effects of trauma, navigating mood disorders, and addressing the challenges of both adolescent and adult mental health. By combining medication management with therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques, she helps clients develop practical coping strategies, enhance emotional regulation, and improve overall quality of life.
(234) 415-3644 View (234) 415-3644
Photo of Dr. Andrew Kreger - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Twinsburg, OH 44087
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.
(234) 901-3886 View (234) 901-3886
Photo of David McNair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
David McNair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Twinsburg, OH 44087
David McNair is an Ohio native that earned his bachelor's degree in nursing from Kent State University and master's degree in nursing from Walden University. Board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, he has over a decade of clinical experience in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic mental health care and also serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. He sees patients ages 6 to 75 and specializes in treating anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
David McNair is an Ohio native that earned his bachelor's degree in nursing from Kent State University and master's degree in nursing from Walden University. Board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, he has over a decade of clinical experience in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic mental health care and also serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. He sees patients ages 6 to 75 and specializes in treating anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
(234) 348-3792 View (234) 348-3792
Photo of DeBalzo Elgudin Levine Risen - DeBalzo, Elgudin, Levine, Risen LLC, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, CNS, LPCC, LISW-S
DeBalzo, Elgudin, Levine, Risen LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, CNS, LPCC, LISW-S
Serves Area
We are a comprehensive psychiatric and mental health practice offering a wide spectrum of evidence-based therapies. We provide services to children/adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our services include psychiatric evaluation and medication management, individual psychotherapy, couples and family therapy, psychological testing, genomic testing for medication sensitivity, and evaluation and therapy for sexual and gender-related concerns. We offer ADHD assessment with the QbTest which is a FDA cleared computer based objective test.
We are a comprehensive psychiatric and mental health practice offering a wide spectrum of evidence-based therapies. We provide services to children/adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our services include psychiatric evaluation and medication management, individual psychotherapy, couples and family therapy, psychological testing, genomic testing for medication sensitivity, and evaluation and therapy for sexual and gender-related concerns. We offer ADHD assessment with the QbTest which is a FDA cleared computer based objective test.
(216) 831-2900 View (216) 831-2900

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Tucker Rosenberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Jennifer Tucker Rosenberg
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I work together with my patients to discover the emotional pain they are experiencing. I feel open communication and listening is crucial to both making a diagnosis and to understanding a person and their struggles. I work closely with my patients to establish a diagnosis and the course of treatment. I find that therapy and medication alone or in combination can be very helpful. I work with people who struggle with life challenges included but not limited to anxiety, depression,life transitions,divorce, adhd,trauma,depression, anxiety,anxiety and depression in pregnancy and postpartum,infertility,relationship issues
I work together with my patients to discover the emotional pain they are experiencing. I feel open communication and listening is crucial to both making a diagnosis and to understanding a person and their struggles. I work closely with my patients to establish a diagnosis and the course of treatment. I find that therapy and medication alone or in combination can be very helpful. I work with people who struggle with life challenges included but not limited to anxiety, depression,life transitions,divorce, adhd,trauma,depression, anxiety,anxiety and depression in pregnancy and postpartum,infertility,relationship issues
(216) 223-6312 x2 View (216) 223-6312 x2
Photo of Fanta Beretay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fanta Beretay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Depression, ADHD, and uncertainty around medication can make daily life feel scattered or difficult to manage. Concentration, motivation, and relationships may slip, leaving you unsure how to regain balance. These challenges are common and can improve with thoughtful, consistent support. I specialize in medication management, depression, and ADHD, helping clients find treatment approaches that fit their goals and bring steadier focus, energy, and mood.
Depression, ADHD, and uncertainty around medication can make daily life feel scattered or difficult to manage. Concentration, motivation, and relationships may slip, leaving you unsure how to regain balance. These challenges are common and can improve with thoughtful, consistent support. I specialize in medication management, depression, and ADHD, helping clients find treatment approaches that fit their goals and bring steadier focus, energy, and mood.
(380) 233-4303 View (380) 233-4303
Photo of Annamaria Oddo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Annamaria Oddo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Mind and Body Psychiatry! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner accepting patients ages 15 and up in Ohio. My role involves addressing symptoms and challenges that patients face with medication, but also identifying other factors that could contribute to mental health. This includes medical conditions, lifestyle factors, coping skills, genetics, and more. I offer GeneSight testing to help narrow down medication options and to help patients understand why previous medications may not have worked.
Welcome to Mind and Body Psychiatry! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner accepting patients ages 15 and up in Ohio. My role involves addressing symptoms and challenges that patients face with medication, but also identifying other factors that could contribute to mental health. This includes medical conditions, lifestyle factors, coping skills, genetics, and more. I offer GeneSight testing to help narrow down medication options and to help patients understand why previous medications may not have worked.
(614) 877-8627 View (614) 877-8627
Photo of Christopher Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Christopher Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Serves Area
I am a dual licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) and Family Medicine (FNP). Prior to my work in psychiatry, I spent over 10 years working in a mix of emergency medicine, trauma care, urgent care and covering for primary care providers.
I am a dual licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) and Family Medicine (FNP). Prior to my work in psychiatry, I spent over 10 years working in a mix of emergency medicine, trauma care, urgent care and covering for primary care providers.
(440) 597-5690 View (440) 597-5690
Photo of Liz Carroll - Hudson Behavioral Health - Elizabeth Carroll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Hudson Behavioral Health - Elizabeth Carroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Hudson, OH 44236
I work with a diverse group of patients which is such a joy and honor. The only necessary quality I look for is the willingness to come and do the work with me. Looking for help and reaching out is evidence of the motivation to heal and thrive. I have been a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Ohio for 14 years, and I hold a doctorate in nursing practice. My clinical practice encompasses a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood and anxiety disorders, thought disorders, trauma-related disorders, ADHD, and addictions.
I work with a diverse group of patients which is such a joy and honor. The only necessary quality I look for is the willingness to come and do the work with me. Looking for help and reaching out is evidence of the motivation to heal and thrive. I have been a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in Ohio for 14 years, and I hold a doctorate in nursing practice. My clinical practice encompasses a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood and anxiety disorders, thought disorders, trauma-related disorders, ADHD, and addictions.
(330) 654-6149 View (330) 654-6149
Photo of Danny Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
(330) 862-9858 View (330) 862-9858
Photo of Laura Kless - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Rocky River, OH 44116
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.
(440) 644-4179 View (440) 644-4179
Photo of Danny E. Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny E. Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
(614) 963-3864 View (614) 963-3864
Photo of Sheilla Ewiah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sheilla Ewiah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. My approach to mental health is person-centered care, empathic, and nonjudgmental. I have many years of experience in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental disorders, including Depression, Anxiety disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Insomnia, amongst other co-occurring disorders. Utilizing an integrated approach to provide empathetic, nonjudgmental, supportive, and respectful service to clients.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. My approach to mental health is person-centered care, empathic, and nonjudgmental. I have many years of experience in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental disorders, including Depression, Anxiety disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Insomnia, amongst other co-occurring disorders. Utilizing an integrated approach to provide empathetic, nonjudgmental, supportive, and respectful service to clients.
(380) 324-4521 View (380) 324-4521
Photo of Dawn Hedges, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Dawn Hedges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, grief or struggling with a sense that you're not where you want to be in life? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals regain balance, confidence, and a sense of purpose. Whether you're seeking relief from persistent symptoms or looking for support as you work toward meaningful life goals, I’m here to guide you. As part of a personalized treatment plan, I can prescribe medication when appropriate—seeing it as one of many valuable tools on the journey to healing and well-being.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, grief or struggling with a sense that you're not where you want to be in life? You don’t have to face it alone. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals regain balance, confidence, and a sense of purpose. Whether you're seeking relief from persistent symptoms or looking for support as you work toward meaningful life goals, I’m here to guide you. As part of a personalized treatment plan, I can prescribe medication when appropriate—seeing it as one of many valuable tools on the journey to healing and well-being.
(614) 714-4447 View (614) 714-4447
Photo of Sheilla Ewiah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sheilla Ewiah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. My approach to mental health is person-centered care, empathic, and nonjudgmental. I have many years of experience in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental disorders, including Depression, Anxiety disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Insomnia, amongst other co-occurring disorders. Utilizing an integrated approach to provide empathetic, nonjudgmental, supportive, and respectful service to clients.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. My approach to mental health is person-centered care, empathic, and nonjudgmental. I have many years of experience in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various mental disorders, including Depression, Anxiety disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Insomnia, amongst other co-occurring disorders. Utilizing an integrated approach to provide empathetic, nonjudgmental, supportive, and respectful service to clients.
(440) 641-3758 View (440) 641-3758
Photo of Dana Wiesenfeld, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Dana Wiesenfeld
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
(727) 594-8818 View (727) 594-8818

See more therapy options for Twinsburg

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Twinsburg, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Twinsburg, OH who prioritize treating:

75% Depression
75% Anxiety
75% ADHD
75% Grief
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Psychosis
75% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medical Mutual

How Psychiatrists in Twinsburg, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Male
33% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Twinsburg?

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.