Psychiatrists in 43214
![Photo of Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ae8cc61-84f0-4b17-bed7-818b676e5d9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, is a highly experienced psychiatrist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Wallenbrock combines a robust educational background with extensive clinical expertise to deliver high-quality, evidence-based psychiatric care. At Holistic Wellness Solutions, she focuses on providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for children aged 12 and older, as well as adults.
Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, is a highly experienced psychiatrist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Wallenbrock combines a robust educational background with extensive clinical expertise to deliver high-quality, evidence-based psychiatric care. At Holistic Wellness Solutions, she focuses on providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for children aged 12 and older, as well as adults.
![Photo of Christopher Messmer, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Veteran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc0ba6c1-1ef8-4172-b673-86a919cc41fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Messmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Veteran
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
My clients appreciate how I listen intently, ask critical questions and make them feel at ease immediately with unconditional care and warmth. I have been working with patients to improve their wellbeing and morale with kind words, support and pharmaceutical expertise since 1990, when I started my career in the United States Navy Healthcare field. I believe in being completely thorough by telling you everything you should expect with medications and what it will take to feel better sooner rather than later.
My clients appreciate how I listen intently, ask critical questions and make them feel at ease immediately with unconditional care and warmth. I have been working with patients to improve their wellbeing and morale with kind words, support and pharmaceutical expertise since 1990, when I started my career in the United States Navy Healthcare field. I believe in being completely thorough by telling you everything you should expect with medications and what it will take to feel better sooner rather than later.
![Photo of Heidi Gum, MHP, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d15610d-6234-46a1-b1c8-8edbc7fa7a50/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have 22 years of experience providing services to patients in all different areas of medicine! I embrace holistic approach and I am trained in providing a whole person approach when it comes to psychiatry. I am a physician’s assistant, certified urban zen integrative therapist, and I am trained in Reiki, awareness meditation, and mindful nutrition. I love analyzing labs with my patients and connect any imbalances in vitamin, mineral, hormone, or electrolyte levels to their symptoms.
I have 22 years of experience providing services to patients in all different areas of medicine! I embrace holistic approach and I am trained in providing a whole person approach when it comes to psychiatry. I am a physician’s assistant, certified urban zen integrative therapist, and I am trained in Reiki, awareness meditation, and mindful nutrition. I love analyzing labs with my patients and connect any imbalances in vitamin, mineral, hormone, or electrolyte levels to their symptoms.
![Photo of David Peter Glenn - Real Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb50e82-20cf-4ec5-be6f-644bad879595/2/320x400.jpeg)
Real Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
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.
![Photo of Alicja Matusiak, MSW, MSN, LISW-S, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eedb580b-456a-484b-ab91-27e5071dc4a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alicja Matusiak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, LISW-S, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
Meet Alicja Matusiak, your dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner and social worker specializing in holistic weight management. Alicja is passionate about assisting individuals who struggle with weight gain due to psychiatric medications, genetics, or health challenges. She provides thorough evaluations and personalized management of psychiatric medications alongside tailored weight loss plans. Alicja utilizes medications such as Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) or Tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) to help clients achieve their weight loss goals effectively and safely.
Meet Alicja Matusiak, your dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner and social worker specializing in holistic weight management. Alicja is passionate about assisting individuals who struggle with weight gain due to psychiatric medications, genetics, or health challenges. She provides thorough evaluations and personalized management of psychiatric medications alongside tailored weight loss plans. Alicja utilizes medications such as Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) or Tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) to help clients achieve their weight loss goals effectively and safely.
![Photo of Nkengafac Etchi - ALPHA Recovery , A, P, R, N, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c97680df-1a27-4598-aab7-29f115f09675/2/320x400.jpeg)
I see someone who is courageous and committed to his/her mental health and well-being. May be facing a range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or bipolar disorder and recognizes the importance of seeking professional support and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. He/she is seeking a safe and non-judgmental space where they can openly express emotions, thoughts, and concerns. They want to be heard and understood.
I see someone who is courageous and committed to his/her mental health and well-being. May be facing a range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or bipolar disorder and recognizes the importance of seeking professional support and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives. He/she is seeking a safe and non-judgmental space where they can openly express emotions, thoughts, and concerns. They want to be heard and understood.
![Photo of Autumn Persinger, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7569f03-e909-4d06-a90d-2f3d1cff09b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Autumn Persinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have previous nursing experience in critical care, emergency medicine, inpatient psychiatry, and inpatient detox. I also have specialized trauma-informed care training in the role as a sexual assault nurse examiner. I would love to use my passion for health and wellness combined with psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to optimize my patients' mental health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have previous nursing experience in critical care, emergency medicine, inpatient psychiatry, and inpatient detox. I also have specialized trauma-informed care training in the role as a sexual assault nurse examiner. I would love to use my passion for health and wellness combined with psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to optimize my patients' mental health.
![Photo of Julie Campbell, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f47ec11-3372-43b2-bf96-6d72cb240754/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
My interest in Psychology began by spending time with my stepfather, who was a psychiatrist. I became very interested in schizophrenia in 7th grade, which was a surprise to my teacher. I remember my stepfather helping me figure out how to pronounce medications during a trip to see my grandparents. In college, in the 1980’s, I volunteered for a domestic violence shelter/suicide hotline. I took every Psychology course offered by my undergraduate university as my electives.
My interest in Psychology began by spending time with my stepfather, who was a psychiatrist. I became very interested in schizophrenia in 7th grade, which was a surprise to my teacher. I remember my stepfather helping me figure out how to pronounce medications during a trip to see my grandparents. In college, in the 1980’s, I volunteered for a domestic violence shelter/suicide hotline. I took every Psychology course offered by my undergraduate university as my electives.
![Photo of Julia Ailts, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c9801ac-e01b-4bbb-aaea-b01700e69e30/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and holds a master’s degree in nursing from Ohio University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Minnesota. Prior to becoming a nurse, she worked as psychosocial specialist helping patients who have mental health challenges navigate the healthcare system and community resources. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Idaho State University. For the last 11 years she has practiced as an intermediate ICU nurse in a variety specialties.
Julia is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and holds a master’s degree in nursing from Ohio University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Minnesota. Prior to becoming a nurse, she worked as psychosocial specialist helping patients who have mental health challenges navigate the healthcare system and community resources. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Idaho State University. For the last 11 years she has practiced as an intermediate ICU nurse in a variety specialties.
![Photo of Stephen Jon Bittner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72a8e5cd-ceb3-452c-b2ae-1181280d0aa8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen Jon Bittner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Bittner is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience. He believes that it is often more effective if the same therapist provides both medication and therapy as it allows for a more comprehensive, individualized and conservative treatment approach. His services include, but are not limited to diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety and panic, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. He has a special interest and expertise in treating individuals and families coping with chronic and life-threatening illness as well as grief and loss.
Dr. Bittner is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience. He believes that it is often more effective if the same therapist provides both medication and therapy as it allows for a more comprehensive, individualized and conservative treatment approach. His services include, but are not limited to diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety and panic, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. He has a special interest and expertise in treating individuals and families coping with chronic and life-threatening illness as well as grief and loss.
![Photo of Joseph Fondriest, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b52afa6-b702-4488-93b3-23c78f934f92/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Joseph Fondriest completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / Summa Health where he served as chief resident and psychiatry representative for resident staff council. He received his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University, and his bachelor's degree and computer science minor from Miami University. He specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. He places a heavy emphasis on listening closely to patients. He utilizes a team-based approach to mental healthcare, working alongside patients and their therapists.
Dr. Joseph Fondriest completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / Summa Health where he served as chief resident and psychiatry representative for resident staff council. He received his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University, and his bachelor's degree and computer science minor from Miami University. He specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. He places a heavy emphasis on listening closely to patients. He utilizes a team-based approach to mental healthcare, working alongside patients and their therapists.
![Photo of Jessica Meeks, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/362ae81c-809d-4588-8c1c-275f83f60a11/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Meeks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
Jessica Meeks is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and has also been trained in Crisis Prevention Intervention. She received her master's degree from Northern Kentucky University and received her undergrad from Mount Carmel College of Nursing. With over 15 years of inpatient critical care experience, Jessica was interested in how mental health can facilitate overall wellness which led to her pursuit of providing outpatient mental health care.
Jessica Meeks is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and has also been trained in Crisis Prevention Intervention. She received her master's degree from Northern Kentucky University and received her undergrad from Mount Carmel College of Nursing. With over 15 years of inpatient critical care experience, Jessica was interested in how mental health can facilitate overall wellness which led to her pursuit of providing outpatient mental health care.
![Photo of Tiffany Seneff, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc150559-3589-4f02-9c2c-e91afdc61fe4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Seneff is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tiffany holds a Master of Science from Northern Kentucky University and Bachelor of Science from The University of Akron. She has over 15 years of Critical Care and Neuro-Interventional experience. Tiffany has a passion for mental health awareness and improving healthcare access to those in need.
Tiffany Seneff is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tiffany holds a Master of Science from Northern Kentucky University and Bachelor of Science from The University of Akron. She has over 15 years of Critical Care and Neuro-Interventional experience. Tiffany has a passion for mental health awareness and improving healthcare access to those in need.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8763dfd-073c-48d7-93d0-f96acd7efdc0/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfe6fb4c-c002-4513-a99d-501929b94b47/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Taylor Buck, MS, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf7a809a-418f-4703-a413-ac15ca062b58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Buck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214 (Online Only)
As a dedicated PMHNP, I offer a holistic and evidence-based approach to patient care, for persons seeking help with mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Recognizing the complexity of mental health, I emphasize understanding each individual's unique needs and preferences to develop personalized treatment plans. My treatment style includes open communication and teamwork, where patients are active participants in their healing journey. Together, we navigate through challenges, explore therapeutic interventions, and optimize medication regimens to achieve sustainable improvement in mental health.
As a dedicated PMHNP, I offer a holistic and evidence-based approach to patient care, for persons seeking help with mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Recognizing the complexity of mental health, I emphasize understanding each individual's unique needs and preferences to develop personalized treatment plans. My treatment style includes open communication and teamwork, where patients are active participants in their healing journey. Together, we navigate through challenges, explore therapeutic interventions, and optimize medication regimens to achieve sustainable improvement in mental health.
![Photo of Lacey Kolb, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da30c99a-c11c-4d7d-a922-bb0aee4fc6a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner who sees patients across the lifespan. I attended the Ohio State University where I received my Masters in Nursing. I have work in both community mental health and private practice settings. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and value collaboration with therapists and other health care providers. My focus of treatment is to reduce debilitating symptoms, foster wellness and improve each individual's quality of life. I believe in partnership within medical decision making and values each patient’s active participation in their treatment.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner who sees patients across the lifespan. I attended the Ohio State University where I received my Masters in Nursing. I have work in both community mental health and private practice settings. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and value collaboration with therapists and other health care providers. My focus of treatment is to reduce debilitating symptoms, foster wellness and improve each individual's quality of life. I believe in partnership within medical decision making and values each patient’s active participation in their treatment.
See more therapy options for 43214
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 43214
10+
Average cost per session
$167
Psychiatrists in 43214 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
94% | Depression |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Sleep or Insomnia |
65% | Grief |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 43214 see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 43214?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.