Psychiatrists in 45044

Photo of Bianca Sidoti, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bianca Sidoti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45044  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Bianca and I'm a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach as a provider is patient-centered as I strive to meet your needs while ensuring your autonomy. I'm dedicated to helping you take back your mental health, while providing a judgement-free experience and compassionate care. As a nurse by trade, I bring a unique perspective to our sessions, focusing on not just your mental well-being but also how it intertwines with your overall health.
Hello! My name is Bianca and I'm a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach as a provider is patient-centered as I strive to meet your needs while ensuring your autonomy. I'm dedicated to helping you take back your mental health, while providing a judgement-free experience and compassionate care. As a nurse by trade, I bring a unique perspective to our sessions, focusing on not just your mental well-being but also how it intertwines with your overall health.
(937) 870-3497 View (937) 870-3497
Photo of Adrienne McCray, DO, Psychiatrist
Adrienne McCray
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Middletown, OH 45044
Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.
Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.
(513) 654-6673 View (513) 654-6673
Photo of Dr. Adrienne McCray - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Middletown, OH 45044
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.
(844) 671-0369 View (844) 671-0369
Photo of Amanda Hardesty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Hardesty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.
(937) 860-2525 View (937) 860-2525
Photo of Dr. Cathleen McKnight - Sirona Mental Wellness, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, NCMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sirona Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, NCMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight
(513) 866-3753 View (513) 866-3753
Photo of LaVinda McAuliffe - OwlBridge Wellness, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
OwlBridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
(513) 279-8035 View (513) 279-8035
Photo of Nafresha Abuaun - Nafresha Abuaun Private Practice LLC, PMHNPBC, FNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nafresha Abuaun Private Practice LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45044
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.
Ohio mental health clinic providing comprehensive and compassionate care to assist individuals struggling with mental health issues to live the best life possible without seeing numerous providers. Offering primary treatment of mental & behavioral conditions, and substance-use disorders; as well as a full range of preventative, screening, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment procedures including cold and flu, infections, medical tests, physical exams, diagnostic testing, nutrition, treatment plan development, counseling, case management, and community linkage. Youth & Adult Outpatient services offered via telehealth and in-person.
(937) 807-3721 View (937) 807-3721
Photo of Selena Willen, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Selena Willen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Middletown, OH 45044  (Online Only)
My name is Skye Willen, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong passion for working with both pediatric and adult populations. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care, helping individuals achieve well-being and improve their quality of life. In my free time, I love to travel and take photographs. I also enjoy reading, hiking, swimming, and skiing. Walking my dog and spending time with my family are some of my favorite ways to relax and recharge.
My name is Skye Willen, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong passion for working with both pediatric and adult populations. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care, helping individuals achieve well-being and improve their quality of life. In my free time, I love to travel and take photographs. I also enjoy reading, hiking, swimming, and skiing. Walking my dog and spending time with my family are some of my favorite ways to relax and recharge.
(216) 868-4837 View (216) 868-4837

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Michelle Fuhr, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Fuhr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGACNP
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45011
I enjoy working with individuals from 16 years old to aging adults. Working in healthcare for so many years, I understand the struggles of the things we carry and tuck under the rug which really gives me a strong passion for helping healthcare workers and giving back to that community. I also have a strong passion for military, minorities, adopted, and LGTBQ+ communities. But really, I want to help everyone I can. I want everyone to feel like their best self and enjoy life to the fullest.
I enjoy working with individuals from 16 years old to aging adults. Working in healthcare for so many years, I understand the struggles of the things we carry and tuck under the rug which really gives me a strong passion for helping healthcare workers and giving back to that community. I also have a strong passion for military, minorities, adopted, and LGTBQ+ communities. But really, I want to help everyone I can. I want everyone to feel like their best self and enjoy life to the fullest.
(419) 374-9521 View (419) 374-9521
Photo of Ton Le, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ton Le
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, OH 45042
Ton Le is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has extensive experience in the healthcare field, working in the medical-surgical unit of Miami Valley Hospital upon graduation from nursing school. Soon however, he realized his interest in psychiatry and proceeded to work in the behavioral health unit at Miami Valley Hospital, gaining years of valuable experience working with its psychiatric patients.
Ton Le is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has extensive experience in the healthcare field, working in the medical-surgical unit of Miami Valley Hospital upon graduation from nursing school. Soon however, he realized his interest in psychiatry and proceeded to work in the behavioral health unit at Miami Valley Hospital, gaining years of valuable experience working with its psychiatric patients.
(937) 707-6142 View (937) 707-6142
Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist
VirtualPsych™
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, OH 45042
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (513) 540-2851 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (513) 540-2851 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(513) 540-2851 View (513) 540-2851
Photo of Princess Gaitawe-Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist
Princess Gaitawe-Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hamilton, OH 45011
I am a board certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have been practicing for over 10 years with experience with care of patients in a hospital, residential, and clinic settings. I value building relationships with both the child and their provider(s) to provide appropriate mental health care. I have treated various diagnoses and mental health concerns including: OCD, depression, ADHD, Autism related behavioral difficulties, young adults transitioning into adulthood, anxiety, and disruptive mood disorders. My approach to is address problems from a comprehensive perspective as their may be various contributing factors.
I am a board certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have been practicing for over 10 years with experience with care of patients in a hospital, residential, and clinic settings. I value building relationships with both the child and their provider(s) to provide appropriate mental health care. I have treated various diagnoses and mental health concerns including: OCD, depression, ADHD, Autism related behavioral difficulties, young adults transitioning into adulthood, anxiety, and disruptive mood disorders. My approach to is address problems from a comprehensive perspective as their may be various contributing factors.
(513) 540-0842 View (513) 540-0842
Photo of Quinton Eugene Moss - Modern Psychiatry and Wellness LLC , MD, Psychiatrist
Modern Psychiatry and Wellness LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Our God-given mission is to provide holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate treatment to those who suffer from mental illness, emotional pain, and addiction. Our team consist of a psychiatrist, therapist/counselors, nurse practitioners, and nurses to help clients achieve real outcomes with their mental health and addiction recovery.
Our God-given mission is to provide holistic, evidence-based, and compassionate treatment to those who suffer from mental illness, emotional pain, and addiction. Our team consist of a psychiatrist, therapist/counselors, nurse practitioners, and nurses to help clients achieve real outcomes with their mental health and addiction recovery.
(513) 657-1718 View (513) 657-1718
Photo of Sarah Anderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springboro, OH 45066
Sarah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She see's patients of all ages, for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, complicated grief, trauma, and others. Sarah is committed to meeting patients where they are emotionally, while creating a safe space that promotes open communication and personal growth. Sarah has limited immediate openings in her schedule. Call NOW to reserve an appointment.
Sarah is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She see's patients of all ages, for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, complicated grief, trauma, and others. Sarah is committed to meeting patients where they are emotionally, while creating a safe space that promotes open communication and personal growth. Sarah has limited immediate openings in her schedule. Call NOW to reserve an appointment.
(937) 230-8139 View (937) 230-8139
Photo of Ashley Michelle Roden, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Michelle Roden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
(937) 600-6866 View (937) 600-6866
Christina Alcorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
Most people struggle with mental illness in some time in their lives. Situations may include the death of a loved one, anxiety related to life events, postpartum depression, attention difficulties at all ages, or a history of a chemical imbalance causing diseases such as chronic depression or anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Many people need coping skills, support and reassurance, or medical intervention to maximize their level of functioning.
Most people struggle with mental illness in some time in their lives. Situations may include the death of a loved one, anxiety related to life events, postpartum depression, attention difficulties at all ages, or a history of a chemical imbalance causing diseases such as chronic depression or anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Many people need coping skills, support and reassurance, or medical intervention to maximize their level of functioning.
(937) 807-3781 View (937) 807-3781
Photo of Emilie Breeding - WoodStream Wellness , PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
WoodStream Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springboro, OH 45066
Compassion. Connection. Collaboration. Mental Health Support Serving the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. Our WSW Team includes board certified specialists committed to treating, inspiring, empowering, nurturing, and supporting the human spirit. Our office is proud to offer both prescribers for medication management and therapists for psychotherapy. At WSW, we are devoted to not only upholding, but surpassing standards of mental health care and our clients’ expectations. We serve the Southwest Ohio Area with honor.
Compassion. Connection. Collaboration. Mental Health Support Serving the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. Our WSW Team includes board certified specialists committed to treating, inspiring, empowering, nurturing, and supporting the human spirit. Our office is proud to offer both prescribers for medication management and therapists for psychotherapy. At WSW, we are devoted to not only upholding, but surpassing standards of mental health care and our clients’ expectations. We serve the Southwest Ohio Area with honor.
(937) 358-8155 View (937) 358-8155
Photo of Paul J Schwartz, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul J Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Lillie Quarles, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lillie Quarles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Lebanon, OH 45036
Lillie R, Quarles, Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner, PMHNP Lillie Quarles is a specialist in mental health caring for the adult patients with mental health needs at LifeStance in Mason Ohio. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Cincinnati. She received her master's degree from Excelsior College in New York. She received her post graduate certificate from Indian Weslyland University. She is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
Lillie R, Quarles, Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner, PMHNP Lillie Quarles is a specialist in mental health caring for the adult patients with mental health needs at LifeStance in Mason Ohio. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Cincinnati. She received her master's degree from Excelsior College in New York. She received her post graduate certificate from Indian Weslyland University. She is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
(513) 756-8762 View (513) 756-8762
Photo of Amanda Bowsman, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Bowsman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45011  (Online Only)
Welcome ! My name is Amanda and I have 17 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including psychiatry, medical-surgical nursing, oncology, and critical care. I obtained my MSN in Psychiatry from Indiana Wesleyan University and my BSN from Ohio University. I have worked in community mental health and inpatient psychiatric hospitals.
Welcome ! My name is Amanda and I have 17 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including psychiatry, medical-surgical nursing, oncology, and critical care. I obtained my MSN in Psychiatry from Indiana Wesleyan University and my BSN from Ohio University. I have worked in community mental health and inpatient psychiatric hospitals.
(440) 659-2333 View (440) 659-2333

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 45044

< 10

Psychiatrists in 45044 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
88% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
88% Trauma and PTSD
88% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
86% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Humana

How Psychiatrists in 45044 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 45044?

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.