Psychiatrists in Ohio

View cities and counties in Ohio
Photo of Achaleke Atemnkeng, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Achaleke Atemnkeng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a dedicated and compassionate Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), who graduated from Northern Kentucky University in 2022. With a holistic approach to mental health, I believe in treating the individual as a whole, recognizing that mental wellness is deeply intertwined with physical health, lifestyle, and emotional well-being. Since beginning practice, I have been committed to providing comprehensive care that addresses not only the symptoms of mental health disorders but also the underlying factors that contribute to them.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), who graduated from Northern Kentucky University in 2022. With a holistic approach to mental health, I believe in treating the individual as a whole, recognizing that mental wellness is deeply intertwined with physical health, lifestyle, and emotional well-being. Since beginning practice, I have been committed to providing comprehensive care that addresses not only the symptoms of mental health disorders but also the underlying factors that contribute to them.
(614) 612-1473 View (614) 612-1473
Photo of Katelyn Boldon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katelyn Boldon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Beavercreek, OH 45440
Hello! My name is Kate and I have been working in the mental health field for 9 years. I started off my undergraduate degree working alongside top psychiatrists at OSU in identifying and treatment manic symptoms in what is now published research. I obtained my bachelors degree in both psychology and nursing at OSU. I then went on to get my Masters degree in Psychiatric Nursing. I started off working as a psychiatric nurse in adolescent inpatient units. I then went on to community mental health, where I worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clients from age 4 +, adolescents, adults to geriatric clients.
Hello! My name is Kate and I have been working in the mental health field for 9 years. I started off my undergraduate degree working alongside top psychiatrists at OSU in identifying and treatment manic symptoms in what is now published research. I obtained my bachelors degree in both psychology and nursing at OSU. I then went on to get my Masters degree in Psychiatric Nursing. I started off working as a psychiatric nurse in adolescent inpatient units. I then went on to community mental health, where I worked as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clients from age 4 +, adolescents, adults to geriatric clients.
(937) 756-9140 View (937) 756-9140
Photo of Dr. Dipika Shah - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Cincinnati, OH 45230
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.
(513) 640-1197 View (513) 640-1197
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Newark, OH 43055
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 Dr. Olivetta Uradu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Olivetta Uradu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
Start your mental health journey with Dr. Olivetta Uradu, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mental health and substance use treatment. Dr. Uradu offers personalized care, combining therapy, medication, and education to help you achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, attention deficit or addiction, her compassionate approach empowers you to heal. Partner with Dr. Uradu for a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you thrive. Hello Community Health provides mental health online services along with supportive care for self improvement.
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Photo of Dr. Kamal-Neil S. Dass - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, DO
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Beachwood, OH 44122
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.
(216) 279-5290 View (216) 279-5290
Photo of Erika Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erika Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a PMHNP, instilling your voice in the therapeutic relationship is my passion. With 4 years of experience as a mental health Registered Nurse, I’ve had the opportunity to help clients in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Realizing the need for access to mental health services has led to my career advancement. As a graduate of Northern Kentucky University with my Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health, my understanding of mental health disorders has grown exponentially.
As a PMHNP, instilling your voice in the therapeutic relationship is my passion. With 4 years of experience as a mental health Registered Nurse, I’ve had the opportunity to help clients in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Realizing the need for access to mental health services has led to my career advancement. As a graduate of Northern Kentucky University with my Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health, my understanding of mental health disorders has grown exponentially.
(380) 221-7866 View (380) 221-7866
Photo of Brian Howard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Brian Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Hilliard, OH 43026
Brian Howard is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care of clients to promote optimal living within their environment. He received his post-masters as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Washburn University, his master's in nursing and family nurse practitioner from Eastern Kentucky University, and bachelor's in nursing from McKendree College. He has worked in private practice, emergency medicine, and public health.
Brian Howard is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care of clients to promote optimal living within their environment. He received his post-masters as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Washburn University, his master's in nursing and family nurse practitioner from Eastern Kentucky University, and bachelor's in nursing from McKendree College. He has worked in private practice, emergency medicine, and public health.
(380) 600-8922 View (380) 600-8922
Photo of Misty McDowell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Misty McDowell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in psychiatry and five years of experience in treating addiction and alcohol dependence, and I am only licensed in Ohio. I specialize in providing mental health services for clients who have depression, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, social anxiety, post-partum depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, tourette's disorder, excoriation skin-picking disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmare disorder, night-tear disorder, eating disorders, etc.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in psychiatry and five years of experience in treating addiction and alcohol dependence, and I am only licensed in Ohio. I specialize in providing mental health services for clients who have depression, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, social anxiety, post-partum depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, tourette's disorder, excoriation skin-picking disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmare disorder, night-tear disorder, eating disorders, etc.
(614) 683-3586 View (614) 683-3586
Photo of Paul J Schwartz, Psychiatrist, MD
Paul J Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
West Chester, OH 45069
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, and psychoanalyst who has received my clinical and psychopharmacology training at Yale University, the National Institute of Mental Health, the VA Medical Center, and the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute. I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. If you are having serious difficulties with your mental health, call me.
I am a psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, and psychoanalyst who has received my clinical and psychopharmacology training at Yale University, the National Institute of Mental Health, the VA Medical Center, and the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute. I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. If you are having serious difficulties with your mental health, call me.
(513) 770-1209 View (513) 770-1209
Photo of Kathie Turner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Kathie Turner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Online Only
A warm hello! I am the founder/owner of Timshel Integrative Psychiatry. I am an integrative nurse practitioner board certified in both psychiatry and family practice. I combine medication management with integrative therapies like nutrition, dietary supplements, counseling / lifestyle coaching and functional lab testing to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. It’s hard to swerve when life throws curves. I am passionate about helping you find real life solutions for real life challenges. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum, ADHD, insomnia, and perinatal care.
A warm hello! I am the founder/owner of Timshel Integrative Psychiatry. I am an integrative nurse practitioner board certified in both psychiatry and family practice. I combine medication management with integrative therapies like nutrition, dietary supplements, counseling / lifestyle coaching and functional lab testing to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. It’s hard to swerve when life throws curves. I am passionate about helping you find real life solutions for real life challenges. I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum, ADHD, insomnia, and perinatal care.
(513) 506-0365 View (513) 506-0365
Photo of Dr. Jeaninea Pilar Bare, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Jeaninea Pilar Bare
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Pilar Bare is an adult psychiatrist who completed her psychiatry residency at TriStar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, where she served as Chief Resident. She earned her medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest in Oregon, where she studied osteopathic medicine which shaped her holistic view of health. She completed an intern year in Family Medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences West. She holds a bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology from the University of Arkansas, where she graduated with honors.
Dr. Pilar Bare is an adult psychiatrist who completed her psychiatry residency at TriStar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, where she served as Chief Resident. She earned her medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest in Oregon, where she studied osteopathic medicine which shaped her holistic view of health. She completed an intern year in Family Medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences West. She holds a bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology from the University of Arkansas, where she graduated with honors.
(513) 450-3305 View (513) 450-3305
Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and holistically treated and cared for. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and holistically treated and cared for. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting major insurance plans.
(513) 434-6732 View (513) 434-6732
Photo of Holly Pierce, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Holly Pierce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Holly Pierce PMHNP-BC. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes a holistic, client-centered model that integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a compassionate, empathetic approach. I focus on supporting individuals in their mental health journey, by tailoring medication interventions to each person’s unique needs, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.
Holly Pierce PMHNP-BC. My approach to mental healthcare emphasizes a holistic, client-centered model that integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a compassionate, empathetic approach. I focus on supporting individuals in their mental health journey, by tailoring medication interventions to each person’s unique needs, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.
(440) 287-1624 View (440) 287-1624
Photo of Mike Tichy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Mike Tichy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Hilliard, OH 43026
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
(380) 205-0323 View (380) 205-0323
Photo of Kristen M. Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Kristen M. Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Fairlawn, OH 44333
Kristen M. Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She has an MSN from Kent State University. Kristen is a dedicated provider with experience in the treatment of the lifespan for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, Panic DO, ADHD, Insomnia, Social Anxiety DO, ODD, Cyclothymic DO, Bipolar DO I and II, Schizoaffective DO, Schizophrenia, and more. Outside of work, Kristen is a mother a varsity softball coach, enjoys 4wheeling, bonfires, decorating, and is an animal lover (she has two Labradors and a cat).
Kristen M. Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She has an MSN from Kent State University. Kristen is a dedicated provider with experience in the treatment of the lifespan for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, Panic DO, ADHD, Insomnia, Social Anxiety DO, ODD, Cyclothymic DO, Bipolar DO I and II, Schizoaffective DO, Schizophrenia, and more. Outside of work, Kristen is a mother a varsity softball coach, enjoys 4wheeling, bonfires, decorating, and is an animal lover (she has two Labradors and a cat).
(440) 336-8881 View (440) 336-8881
Photo of Breanna Millsap, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Breanna, Millsap, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Breanna, Millsap, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Canton, OH 44705
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Email me at: mywellness at zion360 dot net
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Email me at: mywellness at zion360 dot net
(234) 217-5480 View (234) 217-5480
Photo of Kyle Guterba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kyle Guterba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 7 years of experience in the field. I am passionate about helping individuals who are struggling with mental health issues and providing them with the support and care they need to improve their quality of life. Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, and practicing yoga. I am excited to continue my work in the field of psychiatric mental health and to make a positive impact on the lives of those struggling with mental health issues.
Hello! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 7 years of experience in the field. I am passionate about helping individuals who are struggling with mental health issues and providing them with the support and care they need to improve their quality of life. Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, and practicing yoga. I am excited to continue my work in the field of psychiatric mental health and to make a positive impact on the lives of those struggling with mental health issues.
(440) 968-6002 View (440) 968-6002
Photo of David Peter Glenn - Real Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Real Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Dave brings his easy going communication style, sense of humor, honesty, and empathetic engagement to make it easy for him and his patients to engage in his holistic treatment approach. Dave utilizes his 14 years of healthcare experience from an EMT, nurses aide, psychiatric registered nurse, to a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in his day-to-day care to his patients. His psychiatric experience stems from settings such as crisis, psychiatric inpatient hospital, correctional, and outpatient community mental health/substance use disorder treatment.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Dave brings his easy going communication style, sense of humor, honesty, and empathetic engagement to make it easy for him and his patients to engage in his holistic treatment approach. Dave utilizes his 14 years of healthcare experience from an EMT, nurses aide, psychiatric registered nurse, to a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in his day-to-day care to his patients. His psychiatric experience stems from settings such as crisis, psychiatric inpatient hospital, correctional, and outpatient community mental health/substance use disorder treatment.
(614) 412-4890 View (614) 412-4890
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Columbus, OH 43219
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.
(740) 227-4805 View (740) 227-4805

See more therapy options for Ohio

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Ohio who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
91% Depression
81% Bipolar Disorder
73% Trauma and PTSD
69% Medication Management
66% ADHD
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Ohio see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Ohio?

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.