Psychiatrists in Vermilion, OH

Photo of Julia Lobodenko-Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julia Lobodenko-Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You look high-functioning on the outside—but inside, it’s a different story. You’re overwhelmed, exhausted, and carrying far more than people realize. Maybe it’s OCD, ADHD, anxiety, or mood swings that never fully settle. You’re not looking for a quick fix—you want clarity, calm, and care that actually fits. You’ve been dismissed before. Rushed. Talked over. I get it—and I do things differently. My approach is evidence-based but deeply human. We’ll take a closer look at what’s really going on and build a plan together that’s thoughtful, respectful, and truly centered around you.
You look high-functioning on the outside—but inside, it’s a different story. You’re overwhelmed, exhausted, and carrying far more than people realize. Maybe it’s OCD, ADHD, anxiety, or mood swings that never fully settle. You’re not looking for a quick fix—you want clarity, calm, and care that actually fits. You’ve been dismissed before. Rushed. Talked over. I get it—and I do things differently. My approach is evidence-based but deeply human. We’ll take a closer look at what’s really going on and build a plan together that’s thoughtful, respectful, and truly centered around you.
(216) 284-9912 View (216) 284-9912

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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.
(330) 862-9858 View (330) 862-9858
Photo of David Kwon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
David Kwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
North Olmsted, OH 44070
David Kwon is a board-certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner. He master's and doctoral degrees in nursing from Case Western Reserve University. His previous experience includes providing psychiatric services to patients in both community and private practice settings. He currently provides medication management to adult patients ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
David Kwon is a board-certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner. He master's and doctoral degrees in nursing from Case Western Reserve University. His previous experience includes providing psychiatric services to patients in both community and private practice settings. He currently provides medication management to adult patients ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(440) 750-1162 View (440) 750-1162
Photo of Louis Zamudio Jr., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Louis Zamudio Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Are anxiety, stress, depression, anger or even mood swings interrupting you realizing your best self? Is talk therapy just not enough? If you experience sleep difficulties, disturbing traumatic memories, relentless depression or panic attacks, you may need some additional support. Medication is one option, however, sometimes people may see this as the only option. Many people are better served when treated by a specialist who is trained to carefully consider a person’s unique personality, life stressors and even family history before issuing a prescription. I also offer genetic testing to help inform best treatment options.
Are anxiety, stress, depression, anger or even mood swings interrupting you realizing your best self? Is talk therapy just not enough? If you experience sleep difficulties, disturbing traumatic memories, relentless depression or panic attacks, you may need some additional support. Medication is one option, however, sometimes people may see this as the only option. Many people are better served when treated by a specialist who is trained to carefully consider a person’s unique personality, life stressors and even family history before issuing a prescription. I also offer genetic testing to help inform best treatment options.
(216) 930-6350 View (216) 930-6350
Photo of Jennifer Mlady, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Jennifer Mlady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
North Olmsted, OH 44070
Jennifer Mlady provides compassionate and evidence-based care to clients of all ages. With a client-centered approach, Jennifer focuses on realistic treatment goals, fostering a therapeutic environment that addresses the whole person. Jennifer specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, offering expertise in medical conditions/health psychology and post-partum depression/anxiety. Her passion lies in supporting individuals facing reproductive challenges and trauma-related conditions like PTSD.
Jennifer Mlady provides compassionate and evidence-based care to clients of all ages. With a client-centered approach, Jennifer focuses on realistic treatment goals, fostering a therapeutic environment that addresses the whole person. Jennifer specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, offering expertise in medical conditions/health psychology and post-partum depression/anxiety. Her passion lies in supporting individuals facing reproductive challenges and trauma-related conditions like PTSD.
(440) 557-4896 View (440) 557-4896
Photo of James Bukuts, Psychiatrist, MD
James Bukuts
Psychiatrist, MD
Avon, OH 44011
Jamie Bukuts has been practicing for more than 20 years in the Cleveland area. Jamie completed his adult psychiatry residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland plus recently completed a fellowship in public and community psychiatry through Case Western University in 2017. His specialty areas of interest include adult major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He joined LifeStance Health almost 4 years ago and enjoys their comprehensive services that are available to holistically help his patients.
Jamie Bukuts has been practicing for more than 20 years in the Cleveland area. Jamie completed his adult psychiatry residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland plus recently completed a fellowship in public and community psychiatry through Case Western University in 2017. His specialty areas of interest include adult major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He joined LifeStance Health almost 4 years ago and enjoys their comprehensive services that are available to holistically help his patients.
(440) 760-5623 View (440) 760-5623
Photo of Jenna Bennett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jenna Bennett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Elyria, OH 44035
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who takes an integrated approach in treatment. I offer treatment based on the need of the individual such as medication management, psychotherapy, collaboration and education on wellness. I review labs with my patients and discuss any imbalance that may be contributing to the symptoms. I believe vitamin deficiency, hormonal imbalances and thyroid imbalances can be linked to many mental health symptoms. I am a strong believer a healthy mind exists in a healthy body.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who takes an integrated approach in treatment. I offer treatment based on the need of the individual such as medication management, psychotherapy, collaboration and education on wellness. I review labs with my patients and discuss any imbalance that may be contributing to the symptoms. I believe vitamin deficiency, hormonal imbalances and thyroid imbalances can be linked to many mental health symptoms. I am a strong believer a healthy mind exists in a healthy body.
(440) 739-6646 View (440) 739-6646
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.
(216) 777-7699 View (216) 777-7699
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, Psychiatrist, MD
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Elyria, OH 44035
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 (216) 238-3555 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 (216) 238-3555 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(216) 238-3555 View (216) 238-3555
Photo of Sara Olson-Wiencek, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Sara Olson-Wiencek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44111
Hi, I’m Sara Olson-Wiencek, and I’m here to walk alongside you through whatever struggles you’re facing. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my passion lies in creating a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges without judgment. I know that life’s difficulties can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to help you find relief, hope, and healing in ways that feel right for you.
Hi, I’m Sara Olson-Wiencek, and I’m here to walk alongside you through whatever struggles you’re facing. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my passion lies in creating a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges without judgment. I know that life’s difficulties can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to help you find relief, hope, and healing in ways that feel right for you.
(216) 510-9212 View (216) 510-9212
Photo of Brian Soto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brian Soto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone seeking help for challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or addiction, who is ready to take steps toward mental wellness. They want a compassionate, patient-centered approach tailored to their needs. Their goal is to regain balance, build resilience, and improve overall quality of life. Whether they’re an adult or a child, I support them by creating a safe space to explore their feelings and develop a personalized plan to foster healing and growth.
My ideal client is someone seeking help for challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or addiction, who is ready to take steps toward mental wellness. They want a compassionate, patient-centered approach tailored to their needs. Their goal is to regain balance, build resilience, and improve overall quality of life. Whether they’re an adult or a child, I support them by creating a safe space to explore their feelings and develop a personalized plan to foster healing and growth.
(216) 285-1708 View (216) 285-1708
Photo of Jamillah Dye-Perkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jamillah Dye-Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
North Olmsted, OH 44070
Jamillah has a special passion for working with children and adolescents who are navigating developmental disorders and challenges related to identity and emotional regulation. She serves individuals on the autism spectrum, youth with behavioral issues, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Her clinical focus includes the treatment of gender identity concerns, school avoidance, and co-occurring conditions such as sleep and eating disorders. Jamillah is especially attuned to the unique experiences of those from foster care and adoptive backgrounds and creates a safe and affirming environment for all clients.
Jamillah has a special passion for working with children and adolescents who are navigating developmental disorders and challenges related to identity and emotional regulation. She serves individuals on the autism spectrum, youth with behavioral issues, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Her clinical focus includes the treatment of gender identity concerns, school avoidance, and co-occurring conditions such as sleep and eating disorders. Jamillah is especially attuned to the unique experiences of those from foster care and adoptive backgrounds and creates a safe and affirming environment for all clients.
(440) 970-1430 View (440) 970-1430
Photo of Angela Brickner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN
Angela Brickner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN
Avon, OH 44011
Angela Brickner, NP, is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing in Ohio, offering a comprehensive approach to care that includes medication management, counseling, and patient education. Angela specializes in helping individuals with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and alcohol and drug use issues. By focusing on holistic care, she builds strong relationships with her patients, ensuring a thorough understanding of their health history to tailor an effective treatment plan.
Angela Brickner, NP, is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing in Ohio, offering a comprehensive approach to care that includes medication management, counseling, and patient education. Angela specializes in helping individuals with mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, and alcohol and drug use issues. By focusing on holistic care, she builds strong relationships with her patients, ensuring a thorough understanding of their health history to tailor an effective treatment plan.
(440) 581-1290 View (440) 581-1290
Photo of Kelly D Brill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Kelly D Brill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
My patients have a variety of concerns and are seeking medication management to treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar disorders, and substance use disorder. I treat those ages 5 years old and above. LGBTQIA+ inclusive. Treatment goals and plans are cultivated with you, not for you. Emphasis is placed on understanding the condition and both non-medication and medication treatment options.
My patients have a variety of concerns and are seeking medication management to treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar disorders, and substance use disorder. I treat those ages 5 years old and above. LGBTQIA+ inclusive. Treatment goals and plans are cultivated with you, not for you. Emphasis is placed on understanding the condition and both non-medication and medication treatment options.
(440) 681-2503 View (440) 681-2503
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.
(234) 204-3191 View (234) 204-3191
Photo of Theophilus Arthur-Mensah, Psychiatrist, MD
Theophilus Arthur-Mensah
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
My focus is on making precise and accurate diagnoses that then drive my psychopharmacologic approaches. I also employ an eclectic psychotherapeutic approach that includes using biblical perspectives as well as psychodynamic and cognitive restructuring modalities. I place a strong emphasis on establishing rapport and using the most robust psychotherapeutic approaches in dealing with complicated and treatment-resistant cases. I also employ much flexibility in my time spent with patients to allow for maximum effectiveness.
My focus is on making precise and accurate diagnoses that then drive my psychopharmacologic approaches. I also employ an eclectic psychotherapeutic approach that includes using biblical perspectives as well as psychodynamic and cognitive restructuring modalities. I place a strong emphasis on establishing rapport and using the most robust psychotherapeutic approaches in dealing with complicated and treatment-resistant cases. I also employ much flexibility in my time spent with patients to allow for maximum effectiveness.
View
Photo of Christopher Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Christopher Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Lorain, OH 44053
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 Brandy Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Brandy Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Rocky River, OH 44116
Brandy S. Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Living in today's world can be difficult. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or ADHD? Cognitive behavior therapy and medication management are techniques that can be used to treat your symptoms. Brandy specializes in treating mental health needs and addiction. She is available for after-hour appointments to meet the needs of clients who work and attend school during the day. Brandy became a mental health provider to decrease the negative stigma associated with mental illness.
Brandy S. Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Living in today's world can be difficult. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or ADHD? Cognitive behavior therapy and medication management are techniques that can be used to treat your symptoms. Brandy specializes in treating mental health needs and addiction. She is available for after-hour appointments to meet the needs of clients who work and attend school during the day. Brandy became a mental health provider to decrease the negative stigma associated with mental illness.
(440) 641-2151 View (440) 641-2151
Photo of Danny E. Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Danny E. Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
13 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.
(440) 739-6099 View (440) 739-6099
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

See more therapy options for Vermilion

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Vermilion, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Vermilion, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Emotional Disturbance
100% Cancer

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Vermilion, OH see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Vermilion?

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.