Psychiatrists in Twinsburg, OH

David McNair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Elizabeth Pfalzgraf earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and both bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, she has experience in outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health care and serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. She sees ages 6 to 64 and specializes in anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and schizophrenia.
Elizabeth Pfalzgraf earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and both bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, she has experience in outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health care and serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. She sees ages 6 to 64 and specializes in anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and schizophrenia.

Kara Forte-Sullen PMHNP - Seasons Of Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Twinsburg, OH 44087
Hello, I'm Kara! I am currently accepting new patients in Ohio seeking telehealth and In-person visits. Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or even skeptical about Mental Health care? Are you ready to open up about the emotional pain you are experiencing? I believe open communication and active listening are crucial to understanding a persons struggles and making a accurate diagnosis. I collaborate closely with my patients, crafting personalized treatment plans that incorporate therapy, medication, or a blend of both, tailored to their needs. My goal is to help you become your best self. Let's accomplish this as a team together!
Hello, I'm Kara! I am currently accepting new patients in Ohio seeking telehealth and In-person visits. Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or even skeptical about Mental Health care? Are you ready to open up about the emotional pain you are experiencing? I believe open communication and active listening are crucial to understanding a persons struggles and making a accurate diagnosis. I collaborate closely with my patients, crafting personalized treatment plans that incorporate therapy, medication, or a blend of both, tailored to their needs. My goal is to help you become your best self. Let's accomplish this as a team together!

DeBalzo, Elgudin, Levine, Risen LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, CNS, LPCC, LISW-S
Verified Verified
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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Marnie McGrath Neill
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stow, OH 44224
Not accepting new clients
My approach as a psychiatrist is to form a collaborative doctor-patient relationship with you so we can make a plan to improve your overall quality of life. I'm experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other concerns. I use evidence-based medical treatments and therapeutic strategies to individualize your treatment. My ultimate goal is to take into account your life circumstances, preferences, past experiences, and underlying health considerations to help you achieve your best mental health.
My approach as a psychiatrist is to form a collaborative doctor-patient relationship with you so we can make a plan to improve your overall quality of life. I'm experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other concerns. I use evidence-based medical treatments and therapeutic strategies to individualize your treatment. My ultimate goal is to take into account your life circumstances, preferences, past experiences, and underlying health considerations to help you achieve your best mental health.

Kristen M. Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She has an MSN from Kent State University. Kristen is a dedicated provider with experience in the treatment of the lifespan for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, Panic DO, ADHD, Insomnia, Social Anxiety DO, ODD, Cyclothymic DO, Bipolar DO I and II, Schizoaffective DO, Schizophrenia, and more. Outside of work, Kristen is a mother a varsity softball coach, enjoys 4wheeling, bonfires, decorating, and is an animal lover (she has two Labradors and a cat).
Kristen M. Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She has an MSN from Kent State University. Kristen is a dedicated provider with experience in the treatment of the lifespan for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, Panic DO, ADHD, Insomnia, Social Anxiety DO, ODD, Cyclothymic DO, Bipolar DO I and II, Schizoaffective DO, Schizophrenia, and more. Outside of work, Kristen is a mother a varsity softball coach, enjoys 4wheeling, bonfires, decorating, and is an animal lover (she has two Labradors and a cat).

Kayla Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling invalidated? Not being heard about your needs? Looking for a provider to actually HEAR you about your symptoms and develop a plan WITH you, rather than generalizing for you? I'd love to help. Let's get you on the books so we can talk about the best way to meet your needs.
Feeling invalidated? Not being heard about your needs? Looking for a provider to actually HEAR you about your symptoms and develop a plan WITH you, rather than generalizing for you? I'd love to help. Let's get you on the books so we can talk about the best way to meet your needs.

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.

My health care career began in 2003 as a Registered Nurse and has evolved into the Advanced Practiced Registered Nurse that I am today. I have specialized in the areas of Critical Care, Geriatrics, and Mental/Behavioral Health as a registered nurse. My passion for mental health and well-being led me to further my studies and become Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
My health care career began in 2003 as a Registered Nurse and has evolved into the Advanced Practiced Registered Nurse that I am today. I have specialized in the areas of Critical Care, Geriatrics, and Mental/Behavioral Health as a registered nurse. My passion for mental health and well-being led me to further my studies and become Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Dr. Hong is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child and adolescent psychiatry. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northwestern University, her master's degree from Northern Illinois University and her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She served her general psychiatry residency and fellowship training at Thomas Jefferson University, where she was chief fellow. Dr. Hong is a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia, the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association.
Dr. Hong is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child and adolescent psychiatry. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northwestern University, her master's degree from Northern Illinois University and her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She served her general psychiatry residency and fellowship training at Thomas Jefferson University, where she was chief fellow. Dr. Hong is a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia, the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association.

Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at the Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at the Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.

My ideal client is someone struggling with mood and anxiety disorders or ADHD. They may feel overwhelmed by their symptoms, seeking relief from persistent worry, sadness, or difficulty focusing. Their primary need is to find a compassionate and understanding professional who can offer effective strategies for managing their mental health. They aim to regain control over their lives, improve their emotional well-being, and achieve greater stability and focus in their daily activities. In my practice, I focus on strategic medication management to target these distressing psychiatric symptoms.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mood and anxiety disorders or ADHD. They may feel overwhelmed by their symptoms, seeking relief from persistent worry, sadness, or difficulty focusing. Their primary need is to find a compassionate and understanding professional who can offer effective strategies for managing their mental health. They aim to regain control over their lives, improve their emotional well-being, and achieve greater stability and focus in their daily activities. In my practice, I focus on strategic medication management to target these distressing psychiatric symptoms.

Hello! Book with me now through my website! I am a medication provider. I am excited to meet you and looking forward to the opportunity to work with you! I believe care is unique to each person and I believe that you deserve the privacy and respect you want. I know that sometimes it is overwhelming to speak to a new person or to tell your story over and over. I know that there are parts of your story that are not my business to ask. When we meet, I will ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing, how long the symptoms have lasted, and if there is a family history of people with these symptoms. Come as you are, let's talk.
Hello! Book with me now through my website! I am a medication provider. I am excited to meet you and looking forward to the opportunity to work with you! I believe care is unique to each person and I believe that you deserve the privacy and respect you want. I know that sometimes it is overwhelming to speak to a new person or to tell your story over and over. I know that there are parts of your story that are not my business to ask. When we meet, I will ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing, how long the symptoms have lasted, and if there is a family history of people with these symptoms. Come as you are, let's talk.

I work with clients experiencing a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, anger, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, dementia, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) disorder, and mental health symptoms during recovery from addiction. I offer both in office and telehealth appointments.
I work with clients experiencing a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, anger, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, dementia, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) disorder, and mental health symptoms during recovery from addiction. I offer both in office and telehealth appointments.

Depressed? Anxious? Mood swings? In a narcissistic relationship? Feel lost, confused, unheard, and that nobody understands? Do you need someone who will listen without judgment and make sense of your reality? Most people want peace and happiness but fail to have the tools to achieve that. Let's talk and figure out ways to improve your situation right from the comfort of your own home or even during your lunch break. If you’re willing and ready to make life changes, I am here for you. We can start now.
Depressed? Anxious? Mood swings? In a narcissistic relationship? Feel lost, confused, unheard, and that nobody understands? Do you need someone who will listen without judgment and make sense of your reality? Most people want peace and happiness but fail to have the tools to achieve that. Let's talk and figure out ways to improve your situation right from the comfort of your own home or even during your lunch break. If you’re willing and ready to make life changes, I am here for you. We can start now.
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:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
89% | ADHD |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Medication Management |
67% | Child |
Average years in practice
7 Years
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
57% | Male | |
43% | 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.