Psychiatrists in Worthington, OH

Photo of Evan Silverland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Evan Silverland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Are you struggling with your mental health? Have you attempted therapy and utilized coping skills without much relief? Unsure if medication is appropriate for you or is what you're currently taking not working? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help guide you in this decision making process. I see patients of all ages experiencing a wide range of illness, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Are you struggling with your mental health? Have you attempted therapy and utilized coping skills without much relief? Unsure if medication is appropriate for you or is what you're currently taking not working? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help guide you in this decision making process. I see patients of all ages experiencing a wide range of illness, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(614) 756-6898 View (614) 756-6898
Photo of Sophia Kassem, Psychiatrist, DO
Sophia Kassem
Psychiatrist, DO
Worthington, OH 43085
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6 to 21. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6 to 21. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
(614) 762-9571 View (614) 762-9571
Photo of Sarah Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Sarah Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Worthington, OH 43085
Struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD? Feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Mental health struggles can feel isolating, but healing is possible with the right support. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for individuals as young as 6 years old through adulthood. My goal is to help you take control of your mental health not be defined by a diagnosis. With a background as a licensed therapist, I take a holistic, patient-centered approach, blending my clinical therapy experience with psychiatric care
Struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD? Feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Mental health struggles can feel isolating, but healing is possible with the right support. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for individuals as young as 6 years old through adulthood. My goal is to help you take control of your mental health not be defined by a diagnosis. With a background as a licensed therapist, I take a holistic, patient-centered approach, blending my clinical therapy experience with psychiatric care
(419) 928-5242 View (419) 928-5242
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Worthington, OH 43085
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(380) 212-2412 View (380) 212-2412
Photo of Ramona Bhatt, Psychiatrist, DO
Ramona Bhatt
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
(614) 418-6712 View (614) 418-6712
Sherri Wongchaowart
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and indecision often bring people to treatment. I am a practicing psychiatrist applying psychodynamic psychotherapy, contemporary psychoanalysis, and medication management to help patients. People often think that their problems are unclear, confusing, and that there are no real answers. People often wish that their lives could be better or that they could have a greater sense of wellbeing. It could be work or school performance, or relationship difficulties. These problems can be helped, in a way that brings lasting benefit.
Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and indecision often bring people to treatment. I am a practicing psychiatrist applying psychodynamic psychotherapy, contemporary psychoanalysis, and medication management to help patients. People often think that their problems are unclear, confusing, and that there are no real answers. People often wish that their lives could be better or that they could have a greater sense of wellbeing. It could be work or school performance, or relationship difficulties. These problems can be helped, in a way that brings lasting benefit.
(614) 360-2613 View (614) 360-2613
Photo of Sheila V Canini, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Sheila V Canini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Online Only
My ideal clients range from teenagers to adults of all genders, primarily residing in areas where our services are accessible. These individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and are motivated to improve their mental health, achieve better sleep, and embrace change. They require personalized therapy, a supportive community, educational resources, and professional guidance. These clients seek relief from their conditions, value a high quality of life, long for stability, and are committed to self-improvement. Addressing these needs helps them on their journey to better mental health and an enhanced life
My ideal clients range from teenagers to adults of all genders, primarily residing in areas where our services are accessible. These individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and are motivated to improve their mental health, achieve better sleep, and embrace change. They require personalized therapy, a supportive community, educational resources, and professional guidance. These clients seek relief from their conditions, value a high quality of life, long for stability, and are committed to self-improvement. Addressing these needs helps them on their journey to better mental health and an enhanced life
(380) 777-8372 View (380) 777-8372
Photo of Helene Muhirwa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Helene Muhirwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 9 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve full potential of mental Illness or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 9 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve full potential of mental Illness or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
(614) 756-5649 View (614) 756-5649
Photo of Sarah Ab (Reid) Red - Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, GAD, expert
Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, GAD, expert
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Seeking help is hard. At Breeze getting care is easy. — Immediate openings for new pts — Here skilled clinicians treat the mind while nurturing the spirit. We provide personalized care of the mind & body using a combination of medication, therapy, and coaching. Board certified specialists treat most major mental illnesses and symptoms, including chronic feelings of emptiness, sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, trauma, and sleep problems. Caring clinicians partner with patients to create custom treatment plans with patient-driven goals. First responders, veterans, single parents and shift workers with busy schedules can easily get care.
Seeking help is hard. At Breeze getting care is easy. — Immediate openings for new pts — Here skilled clinicians treat the mind while nurturing the spirit. We provide personalized care of the mind & body using a combination of medication, therapy, and coaching. Board certified specialists treat most major mental illnesses and symptoms, including chronic feelings of emptiness, sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, trauma, and sleep problems. Caring clinicians partner with patients to create custom treatment plans with patient-driven goals. First responders, veterans, single parents and shift workers with busy schedules can easily get care.
(740) 685-4720 View (740) 685-4720
Photo of Melissa Fox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melissa Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you searching for mental health support that feels personal, not clinical? I work with adults who want care that meets them where they are—whether you’re just starting to explore your mental health or have been managing symptoms for a while. As a mental health nurse practitioner, I offer a calm, supportive space where we can talk openly and work together to find the right approach. My care blends thoughtful medication support with compassionate conversation, always focused on your goals and what matters most to you.
Are you searching for mental health support that feels personal, not clinical? I work with adults who want care that meets them where they are—whether you’re just starting to explore your mental health or have been managing symptoms for a while. As a mental health nurse practitioner, I offer a calm, supportive space where we can talk openly and work together to find the right approach. My care blends thoughtful medication support with compassionate conversation, always focused on your goals and what matters most to you.
(419) 945-4375 View (419) 945-4375
Photo of Grace Carlisle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Grace Carlisle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am passionate about making sure my clients feel heard. I want my patients to leave their appointments knowing that their provider cares about their progress and their overall health and happiness. I serve clients of all ages, and have a special interest in adolescents and young adults with anxiety, depression, panic disorders and trauma. My favorite motto is, "be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody."
I am passionate about making sure my clients feel heard. I want my patients to leave their appointments knowing that their provider cares about their progress and their overall health and happiness. I serve clients of all ages, and have a special interest in adolescents and young adults with anxiety, depression, panic disorders and trauma. My favorite motto is, "be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody."
(937) 759-0545 View (937) 759-0545
Ardent Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BS
Online Only
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
(740) 272-4868 View (740) 272-4868
Photo of Jenna Jacobs, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Jenna Jacobs
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
(740) 619-4219 View (740) 619-4219
Photo of Kinsey Reeves, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C
Kinsey Reeves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
(614) 953-6088 View (614) 953-6088
Photo of Paige Malone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Paige Malone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I received my Master's from The Ohio State University and am a board-certified PMHNP. I can provide diagnostic testing and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions and am accepting new clients! I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care to children (age 6+), adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health struggles. My approach is rooted in empathy and a belief in empowering individuals to make educated decisions about their treatment options. I believe in patient-centered care and working with my patients to develop individualized plans that align with their unique goals/preferences.
I received my Master's from The Ohio State University and am a board-certified PMHNP. I can provide diagnostic testing and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions and am accepting new clients! I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care to children (age 6+), adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health struggles. My approach is rooted in empathy and a belief in empowering individuals to make educated decisions about their treatment options. I believe in patient-centered care and working with my patients to develop individualized plans that align with their unique goals/preferences.
(740) 720-2908 View (740) 720-2908

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ivana Balic - Keystone Mental Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Keystone Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Dublin, OH 43016
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
(614) 820-5241 View (614) 820-5241
Photo of Krista Mcdonald, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Krista Mcdonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43219
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health and have been practicing since 2007. I have experience treating patients ages 12 and up. I graduated from University of Tampa with a master’s degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master’s certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric mental health. My current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner, I worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health and have been practicing since 2007. I have experience treating patients ages 12 and up. I graduated from University of Tampa with a master’s degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master’s certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master’s certificate in psychiatric mental health. My current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner, I worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
(440) 379-8612 View (440) 379-8612
Photo of Gina Vaisberg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Gina Vaisberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Columbus, OH 43219
Gina Vaisberg is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from Wright State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience and received a Master of Science in Nursing from The Ohio State University. Gina believes in a treatment philosophy that provides the most up-to-date evidence-based quality care.
Gina Vaisberg is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from Wright State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience and received a Master of Science in Nursing from The Ohio State University. Gina believes in a treatment philosophy that provides the most up-to-date evidence-based quality care.
(614) 762-9747 View (614) 762-9747
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(740) 200-8746 View (740) 200-8746
Photo of Elizabeth Barley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Barley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a compassionate, dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to delivering holistic, patient-centered care. I have experience caring for children and adults in inpatient psychiatric settings, as well as working in hospitals, home health, and palliative/hospice care. I earned both of my advanced practice degrees from Purdue Global University. While in school, I balanced my studies with hands-on experience at an inpatient mental health clinic and worked remotely as a family nurse practitioner, further deepening my dedication to meeting patients where they are.
I am a compassionate, dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to delivering holistic, patient-centered care. I have experience caring for children and adults in inpatient psychiatric settings, as well as working in hospitals, home health, and palliative/hospice care. I earned both of my advanced practice degrees from Purdue Global University. While in school, I balanced my studies with hands-on experience at an inpatient mental health clinic and worked remotely as a family nurse practitioner, further deepening my dedication to meeting patients where they are.
(614) 819-3324 View (614) 819-3324

See more therapy options for Worthington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Worthington, OH

10+

Average cost per session

$125

Psychiatrists in Worthington, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
93% Depression
87% Bipolar Disorder
87% Medication Management
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Trauma and PTSD
60% ADHD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
92% Optum
85% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Worthington, OH see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Worthington?

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.