Psychiatrists in Vermilion, OH

Photo of Donna Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Donna Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am dually certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care to individuals across Ohio and look forward to assisting you on your mental health journey. More than a healthcare provider: I am a wife, mother and Nana. Along with my sisters, a caregiver to elderly parents. Proud owner of an adorable shih tzu named Flippy. We will start the process of developing an individualized, reasonable and achievable path toward what you want to change.
I am dually certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care to individuals across Ohio and look forward to assisting you on your mental health journey. More than a healthcare provider: I am a wife, mother and Nana. Along with my sisters, a caregiver to elderly parents. Proud owner of an adorable shih tzu named Flippy. We will start the process of developing an individualized, reasonable and achievable path toward what you want to change.
(440) 577-6580 View (440) 577-6580
Photo of Donna Boyd Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Donna Boyd Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vermilion, OH 44089
Reaching out for therapy can be difficult and anxiety-producing. I will do everything I can to help you in this process and support you. I enjoy helping people who are struggling a bit to better understand their feelings, needs, and goals and develop strategies to get to a more comfortable and satisfying place.
Reaching out for therapy can be difficult and anxiety-producing. I will do everything I can to help you in this process and support you. I enjoy helping people who are struggling a bit to better understand their feelings, needs, and goals and develop strategies to get to a more comfortable and satisfying place.
(440) 693-2487 View (440) 693-2487
Photo of Anthony Edie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anthony Edie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello and welcome! My name is Anthony. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing collaborative, patient-centered care across the lifespan. I commonly work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and related mental health concerns, while also treating a broad range of psychiatric conditions based on each patient’s individual needs. My focus is on helping patients navigate life transitions, improve emotional regulation, and develop practical coping skills that support long-term wellness.
Hello and welcome! My name is Anthony. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing collaborative, patient-centered care across the lifespan. I commonly work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and related mental health concerns, while also treating a broad range of psychiatric conditions based on each patient’s individual needs. My focus is on helping patients navigate life transitions, improve emotional regulation, and develop practical coping skills that support long-term wellness.
(330) 765-2607 View (330) 765-2607

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Filippo Costanzo, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Filippo Costanzo
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
My focus is on children/teens struggling with ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, ODD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, mood changes, or behavioral challenges. I truly enjoy collaborating with parents/caregivers to help the entire family achieve clarity and feel supported. I believe in offering treatment to the whole family. I welcome parents, if they wish, to also do psychotherapy with me. I believe strongly in therapy, and I am also well-versed in complex medication management of psychiatric illness. I enjoy providing therapy myself, which is increasingly rare among psychiatrists. Question? Schedule a free 15 min appointment!
My focus is on children/teens struggling with ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, ODD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, mood changes, or behavioral challenges. I truly enjoy collaborating with parents/caregivers to help the entire family achieve clarity and feel supported. I believe in offering treatment to the whole family. I welcome parents, if they wish, to also do psychotherapy with me. I believe strongly in therapy, and I am also well-versed in complex medication management of psychiatric illness. I enjoy providing therapy myself, which is increasingly rare among psychiatrists. Question? Schedule a free 15 min appointment!
(814) 482-3850 View (814) 482-3850
Photo of Laura Tarr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHCNS-
Laura Tarr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHCNS-
Rocky River, OH 44116
Laura believes in staying informed about the latest evidence-based practices to ensure the highest quality of care for every individual. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, and childhood behavior issues, Laura is deeply passionate about helping young people navigate life's complexities and achieve emotional well-being. Additionally, she provides expertise in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and parenting skills. Beyond her clinical practice, Laura values personal connection and balance.
Laura believes in staying informed about the latest evidence-based practices to ensure the highest quality of care for every individual. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, and childhood behavior issues, Laura is deeply passionate about helping young people navigate life's complexities and achieve emotional well-being. Additionally, she provides expertise in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and parenting skills. Beyond her clinical practice, Laura values personal connection and balance.
(440) 771-1824 View (440) 771-1824
Photo of Berline Frye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Berline Frye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, Are you looking for a provider that listens to you, gives you time, and pays attention to your mental health needs? Berline is a nurse practitioner dually board certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as Adult-Geriatric primary care nurse practitioner. She is board certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She has experience working in acute inpatient hospitals and outpatient private practice settings.
Hi there, Are you looking for a provider that listens to you, gives you time, and pays attention to your mental health needs? Berline is a nurse practitioner dually board certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as Adult-Geriatric primary care nurse practitioner. She is board certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She has experience working in acute inpatient hospitals and outpatient private practice settings.
(440) 616-8156 View (440) 616-8156
Photo of Elizabeth Pfalzgraf, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Elizabeth Pfalzgraf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In addition to her clinical practice, Elizabeth is committed to shaping the future of nursing through her role as an educator for undergraduate nursing students. She provides care for individuals ages 6 to 64 and specializes in medication management for a range of mental health conditions, including, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depressive disorders,post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD)and schizophrenia. Elizabeth takes a compassionate, evidence-based approach to care, aiming to support patients in achieving stability and improved quality of life.
In addition to her clinical practice, Elizabeth is committed to shaping the future of nursing through her role as an educator for undergraduate nursing students. She provides care for individuals ages 6 to 64 and specializes in medication management for a range of mental health conditions, including, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depressive disorders,post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD)and schizophrenia. Elizabeth takes a compassionate, evidence-based approach to care, aiming to support patients in achieving stability and improved quality of life.
(440) 616-8816 View (440) 616-8816
Photo of Jennifer Seelie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Jennifer Seelie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Jenny Seelie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Walden University with a 4.0, Magna Cum Laude. Jenny helps clients through diagnosing, medication management, and psychotherapy. She specializes in bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, schizophrenia, and ADHD. Outside of work, Jenny enjoys fishing year-round, spending time with her kids, and anything outdoors.
Jenny Seelie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Walden University with a 4.0, Magna Cum Laude. Jenny helps clients through diagnosing, medication management, and psychotherapy. She specializes in bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, schizophrenia, and ADHD. Outside of work, Jenny enjoys fishing year-round, spending time with her kids, and anything outdoors.
(216) 284-9584 View (216) 284-9584
Photo of Diamante Polito, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Diamante Polito
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach combines evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy, offering both structure and empathy in a safe and welcoming environment. Together, we will create a personalized plan that empowers you to regain balance, improve your well-being, and move toward the life you want to live.
My approach combines evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy, offering both structure and empathy in a safe and welcoming environment. Together, we will create a personalized plan that empowers you to regain balance, improve your well-being, and move toward the life you want to live.
(216) 424-5113 View (216) 424-5113
Photo of Jennifer Mlady - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
North Olmsted, OH 44070
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) 588-3191 View (440) 588-3191
Photo of Deirdre Raimey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Deirdre Raimey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Deirdre Raimey. I am based in Cleveland, Ohio. I have been a board certified family nurse practitioner for the past 16 years, and a family systems psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 10 years. I received all of my nursing education at Case Western Reserve University. In my role as a nurse practitioner, I manage behavioral health medication and therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Deirdre Raimey. I am based in Cleveland, Ohio. I have been a board certified family nurse practitioner for the past 16 years, and a family systems psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 10 years. I received all of my nursing education at Case Western Reserve University. In my role as a nurse practitioner, I manage behavioral health medication and therapy.
(440) 600-3629 View (440) 600-3629
Photo of Anthony Shumway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, MSN
Anthony Shumway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, MSN
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
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.
(234) 562-2598 View (234) 562-2598
Photo of Alexa Dannemiller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Alexa Dannemiller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work primarily with adults who are navigating grief, complex trauma, and challenges that make trusting your care difficult. I enjoy working with high-functioning clients who may benefit from some medication support alongside robust social and emotional guidance. I am warm, compassionate, and deeply curious about your experience. My approach is collaborative—you play a central role in your psychiatric care, and I work with you, not against you. Using evidence-based strategies, I guide you toward healing, resilience, and a life full of vitality.
I work primarily with adults who are navigating grief, complex trauma, and challenges that make trusting your care difficult. I enjoy working with high-functioning clients who may benefit from some medication support alongside robust social and emotional guidance. I am warm, compassionate, and deeply curious about your experience. My approach is collaborative—you play a central role in your psychiatric care, and I work with you, not against you. Using evidence-based strategies, I guide you toward healing, resilience, and a life full of vitality.
(216) 208-7863 View (216) 208-7863
Photo of Isatu Samura, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Isatu Samura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Isatu (tutu) Samura is a highly skilled nurse practitioner with over twenty-plus years of experience as a registered nurse in mental health and substance abuse.
Isatu (tutu) Samura is a highly skilled nurse practitioner with over twenty-plus years of experience as a registered nurse in mental health and substance abuse.
(740) 307-7093 View (740) 307-7093
Photo of Christy Ann Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Christy Ann Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 5 years of experience treating patients in the outpatient and telehealth settings. I have experience treating patients throughout the lifespan but particularly enjoy treating women who often are too busy to take time to focus on their own mental health. I am very honest and direct with my patients and enjoy empowering them to help themselves. I am open-minded and love to listen to my patients tell me their story without fear of judgement. I have background in working both in community mental health and for a large private mental health organization.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 5 years of experience treating patients in the outpatient and telehealth settings. I have experience treating patients throughout the lifespan but particularly enjoy treating women who often are too busy to take time to focus on their own mental health. I am very honest and direct with my patients and enjoy empowering them to help themselves. I am open-minded and love to listen to my patients tell me their story without fear of judgement. I have background in working both in community mental health and for a large private mental health organization.
(567) 707-1353 View (567) 707-1353
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, Psychiatrist, MD
TelaMD Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers.
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers.
(216) 238-3555 View (216) 238-3555
Photo of Rachel Gaydosh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Rachel Gaydosh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
Now scheduling Adult ADHD Evaluations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a special interest in evaluating and treating ADHD in adults. I provide comprehensive ADHD assessments using evidence-based screening tools to help clarify diagnoses and develop individualized treatment plans. I also work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and co-occurring mental health conditions, offering medication management and supportive, collaborative care.
Now scheduling Adult ADHD Evaluations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a special interest in evaluating and treating ADHD in adults. I provide comprehensive ADHD assessments using evidence-based screening tools to help clarify diagnoses and develop individualized treatment plans. I also work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and co-occurring mental health conditions, offering medication management and supportive, collaborative care.
(440) 427-3067 View (440) 427-3067
Photo of Dr. Amy Mattern, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Amy Mattern
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Mattern is board certified in Adult psychiatry. Her approach to mental health is integrative, with utilization of complementary and alternative treatments such as yoga, lifestyle changes, and nutritional interventions in addition to traditional medication management and therapy. Dr. Mattern prefers to focus on the overall health and well-being of an individual, rather than just treating symptoms. Dr. Mattern’s practice focuses on medication management along with elements of therapy from different modalities, such as supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy that are patient-tailored.
Dr. Mattern is board certified in Adult psychiatry. Her approach to mental health is integrative, with utilization of complementary and alternative treatments such as yoga, lifestyle changes, and nutritional interventions in addition to traditional medication management and therapy. Dr. Mattern prefers to focus on the overall health and well-being of an individual, rather than just treating symptoms. Dr. Mattern’s practice focuses on medication management along with elements of therapy from different modalities, such as supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy that are patient-tailored.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Brooke Lyon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Brooke Lyon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with all ages who may be struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma and more. I also have a special passion for supporting women’s mental health throughout the many stages and demands of life. Many clients come feeling emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, misunderstood or not sure where to start. I always want to be able to meet people where they are with compassion and without judgement. My goal is to help each and every person feel safe, supported and empowered while working together toward healing, stability and growth!
I work with all ages who may be struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma and more. I also have a special passion for supporting women’s mental health throughout the many stages and demands of life. Many clients come feeling emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, misunderstood or not sure where to start. I always want to be able to meet people where they are with compassion and without judgement. My goal is to help each and every person feel safe, supported and empowered while working together toward healing, stability and growth!
(740) 558-8262 View (740) 558-8262
Photo of Dr. Areum Kim, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Areum Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Kim graduated from The Ohio State University with a BS in Psychology. She completed medical school at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Kim was chief resident during her adult psychiatry training at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. She continued on at OSUWMC for her fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry in affiliation with Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. She was actively involved in the recruitment and education of medical students, residents, and fellows and also served as chief fellow in her final year of training. Dr.
Dr. Kim graduated from The Ohio State University with a BS in Psychology. She completed medical school at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Kim was chief resident during her adult psychiatry training at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. She continued on at OSUWMC for her fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry in affiliation with Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. She was actively involved in the recruitment and education of medical students, residents, and fellows and also served as chief fellow in her final year of training. Dr.
(216) 867-6166 View (216) 867-6166

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% Grief
100% Bipolar Disorder
67% ADHD
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Autism

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Vermilion, OH see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
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.