Psychiatrists in Westerville, OH
![Photo of Rachel Jones, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87257452-7ed8-402d-9b43-1e2e87d3ac9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Jones is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with seven of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University and Wright State University and her bachelor's degree from Grace College in Indiana. She is certified through the American Nursing Credential Center. She has previously worked in inpatient, outpatient, emergency and foster care settings. She specializes in medication management for her clients and is also knowledgeable in motivational interviewing and supportive counseling. She sees clients up to age 40.
Rachel Jones is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with seven of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University and Wright State University and her bachelor's degree from Grace College in Indiana. She is certified through the American Nursing Credential Center. She has previously worked in inpatient, outpatient, emergency and foster care settings. She specializes in medication management for her clients and is also knowledgeable in motivational interviewing and supportive counseling. She sees clients up to age 40.
![Photo of Michelle Kotte, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a4e3b36-7dc1-469e-9ea4-20a402504f10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Kotte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
My name is Michelle Kotte; I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I earned my doctorate in nursing (DNP) from Duke University and offer a holistic treatment approach to treating adults, while providing medication management services. My areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, stress management, seasonal affective disorder, anger management, and agoraphobia. I enjoy working with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. I love helping clients reach their personal, relationship, or career goals.
My name is Michelle Kotte; I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I earned my doctorate in nursing (DNP) from Duke University and offer a holistic treatment approach to treating adults, while providing medication management services. My areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, stress management, seasonal affective disorder, anger management, and agoraphobia. I enjoy working with individuals who are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. I love helping clients reach their personal, relationship, or career goals.
![Photo of Ramona Bhatt, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af3c788f-a6fe-4129-8189-5e880d45117d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
![Photo of Ian Marconi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c286ed77-d370-4d55-9a15-3a54ae2d2e0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ian Marconi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Ian M. Marconi MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a 2002 graduate from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a 2007 graduate of Mt. Carmel College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a 2021 graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Psych-Mental Health. I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU.
Ian M. Marconi MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a 2002 graduate from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a 2007 graduate of Mt. Carmel College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a 2021 graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Psych-Mental Health. I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU.
![Photo of Mary Abbot, PMHNP/C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9535c3e8-0076-4cc4-ad26-0fecc5735b7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Abbott, Certified Nurse Practitioner, graduated with Honors from Drexel University with a master's degree in Nursing and a Post Master's Certificate as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in general psychiatry and currently treats adults 18 years or older. Mary has a special interest in treating a variety of disorders including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Ms. Abbott also holds a certificate as a Woman's Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience.
Mary Abbott, Certified Nurse Practitioner, graduated with Honors from Drexel University with a master's degree in Nursing and a Post Master's Certificate as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in general psychiatry and currently treats adults 18 years or older. Mary has a special interest in treating a variety of disorders including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Ms. Abbott also holds a certificate as a Woman's Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience.
![Photo of Beth Sanchez, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f50f6e45-f800-4461-9d0a-58220f8b1887/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
When selecting a psychiatric provider, you want to find someone who is not only knowledgeable, but also relatable. Together, we will work to find a treatment plan that works for you. My background as a labor and delivery nurse helps me to uniquely relate to mothers in a way that others may not be able to. I specialize in mental health for women, throughout the lifespan. I am available to meet virtually, or in person, at Well Balanced Women. This gives you the flexibility to fit mental healthcare into your busy schedule. I look forward to meeting you and walking with you on your path to mental wellness!
When selecting a psychiatric provider, you want to find someone who is not only knowledgeable, but also relatable. Together, we will work to find a treatment plan that works for you. My background as a labor and delivery nurse helps me to uniquely relate to mothers in a way that others may not be able to. I specialize in mental health for women, throughout the lifespan. I am available to meet virtually, or in person, at Well Balanced Women. This gives you the flexibility to fit mental healthcare into your busy schedule. I look forward to meeting you and walking with you on your path to mental wellness!
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8763dfd-073c-48d7-93d0-f96acd7efdc0/1/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
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 Amy Everhart, MSN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/628182c2-ed94-4d85-b0cd-8cbacd83667f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Everhart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Want to know what makes psychiatric care at Well Balanced Women different? It’s the power of human connection through lived experiences. It’s the real life stuff that can’t be taught in school or in books. It’s the fact that we as women are all in this together. My favorite part of my practice is the relationships I build with my patients and the success stories that follow. At Well Balanced Women, you will never be a number. I will always take the time to get to know you. I want to hear your story and be part of your journey. I am just a regular mom of 3 ready to help you feel your best so you can get back to living your life!
Want to know what makes psychiatric care at Well Balanced Women different? It’s the power of human connection through lived experiences. It’s the real life stuff that can’t be taught in school or in books. It’s the fact that we as women are all in this together. My favorite part of my practice is the relationships I build with my patients and the success stories that follow. At Well Balanced Women, you will never be a number. I will always take the time to get to know you. I want to hear your story and be part of your journey. I am just a regular mom of 3 ready to help you feel your best so you can get back to living your life!
![Photo of Ebba Terefe - MindsMatter Psychiatry, CNP , PMHNP-B, C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9898b78d-7a08-4ca9-aa3c-9c59cf77a98d/2/320x400.jpeg)
MindsMatter Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP , PMHNP-B, C
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I'm a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to patients ages 16 +. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home.
I'm a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management services to patients ages 16 +. I'm board certified, specializing in medication management, treating depression, anxiety, addiction and many other ailments. Accepting new patients and variety of insurances. I can easily E-prescribe your medication and use the latest technology for easy virtual sessions, without you having to leave your home.
![Photo of Evan Silverland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c64f176-5321-4b53-8808-3147d7b2fcbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evan Silverland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you struggling with your mental health? Have you attempted therapy and utilized coping skills without much relief? Unsure if medication is appropriate for you or is what you're currently taking not working? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help guide you in this decision making process. I see patients of all ages experiencing a wide range of illness, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Are you struggling with your mental health? Have you attempted therapy and utilized coping skills without much relief? Unsure if medication is appropriate for you or is what you're currently taking not working? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help guide you in this decision making process. I see patients of all ages experiencing a wide range of illness, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Jorden Brent Weiss, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c54df92-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/9/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist trained to listen empathically to patients with deep respect for their emotional troubles. Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Executive Functioning disorders, Autism and Aspergers Syndrome are a major focus of my practice. Women's Health, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Psychosis and Schizophrenia are also treated extensively. Pharmacotherapy and Psychotherapy are employed with kindness and compassion to restore balance and quality of life. I employ an Integrative Psychiatric approach to resolve underlying root causes of illness and achieve symptom relief.
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist trained to listen empathically to patients with deep respect for their emotional troubles. Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Executive Functioning disorders, Autism and Aspergers Syndrome are a major focus of my practice. Women's Health, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Psychosis and Schizophrenia are also treated extensively. Pharmacotherapy and Psychotherapy are employed with kindness and compassion to restore balance and quality of life. I employ an Integrative Psychiatric approach to resolve underlying root causes of illness and achieve symptom relief.
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![Photo of Megan Correll, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/530a3fcb-63ce-4785-9ddc-8f9e250a337a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Correll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082 (Online Only)
My name is Megan Correll PMHNP, CNP. I provide exclusively online services through my practice “Next Chapter Psychiatry.” I believe mental health care is NOT one size fits all, and because of this, it's my priority to tailor care specific to a person and their life experiences. I also want to make communication more effective and provide thorough all-around care and provide direct communication with your provider with prompt response times. Due to this, I offer longer appointment times, along with evening and weekend appointment availability. My goal is to eliminate as many barriers as possible to give you the treatment you deserve.
My name is Megan Correll PMHNP, CNP. I provide exclusively online services through my practice “Next Chapter Psychiatry.” I believe mental health care is NOT one size fits all, and because of this, it's my priority to tailor care specific to a person and their life experiences. I also want to make communication more effective and provide thorough all-around care and provide direct communication with your provider with prompt response times. Due to this, I offer longer appointment times, along with evening and weekend appointment availability. My goal is to eliminate as many barriers as possible to give you the treatment you deserve.
![Photo of Christopher Lautt, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11e3c437-38bf-4e49-80a0-4aa47c1c8121/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Lautt is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He earned both his Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degrees with honors at The Ohio State University. He has been working in psychiatry for several years as a nurse and nurse practitioner with experience in telepsychiatry, inpatient psychiatry, and outpatient community mental health.
Christopher Lautt is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He earned both his Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degrees with honors at The Ohio State University. He has been working in psychiatry for several years as a nurse and nurse practitioner with experience in telepsychiatry, inpatient psychiatry, and outpatient community mental health.
![Photo of Brittany Schmidt, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f0067e-a5cc-4246-ae99-a484d24a06e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Schmidt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in women's mental health across the lifespan. My main focus in my nursing career has been within labor and delivery as well as postpartum. This gives me a unique perspective and experience when treating my patients. I will work together with you to find balance and support your unique mental health needs. I am available virtually, or in person, at Well Balanced Women giving you flexibility to prioritize your mental health care. I look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your mental health goals!
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in women's mental health across the lifespan. My main focus in my nursing career has been within labor and delivery as well as postpartum. This gives me a unique perspective and experience when treating my patients. I will work together with you to find balance and support your unique mental health needs. I am available virtually, or in person, at Well Balanced Women giving you flexibility to prioritize your mental health care. I look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your mental health goals!
![Photo of Nicole Mccrackin, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f827deb0-4cb2-42c0-b08e-41b7dac99ccf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole McCrackin is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor's degree in nursing from Mount Carmel College of Nursing and her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She has previously worked for government and community-based organizations providing psychiatric services and supportive therapy to the adult population. She currently provides medication management to adults ages 18 to 65+. Her treatment areas of specialty include anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
Nicole McCrackin is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor's degree in nursing from Mount Carmel College of Nursing and her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She has previously worked for government and community-based organizations providing psychiatric services and supportive therapy to the adult population. She currently provides medication management to adults ages 18 to 65+. Her treatment areas of specialty include anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
![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 Kathryn Hendricks, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b467316-96e2-4b4a-b917-a02f24b970c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and indecision often bring people to treatment. I am a practicing psychiatrist applying psychodynamic psychotherapy, contemporary psychoanalysis, and medication management to help patients. People often think that their problems are unclear, confusing, and that there are no real answers. People often wish that their lives could be better or that they could have a greater sense of wellbeing. It could be work or school performance, or relationship difficulties. These problems can be helped, in a way that brings lasting benefit.
Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and indecision often bring people to treatment. I am a practicing psychiatrist applying psychodynamic psychotherapy, contemporary psychoanalysis, and medication management to help patients. People often think that their problems are unclear, confusing, and that there are no real answers. People often wish that their lives could be better or that they could have a greater sense of wellbeing. It could be work or school performance, or relationship difficulties. These problems can be helped, in a way that brings lasting benefit.
![Photo of Dr. Justin Hendricks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f2a449c-307a-46d3-9e7a-e8c1f894d472/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Justin Hendricks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Justin Hendricks, and my practice is Mirror Health, a virtual psychiatry clinic in Ohio. As a Christian provider, my ideal client seeks a holistic, faith-integrated approach to mental health. They may face anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and value the integration of physical, spiritual, and social well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes but need guidance to harness their strengths and set achievable goals. I provide a supportive environment that reflects their commitment to overall well-being, helping them move forward with a personalized, integrative plan.
My name is Dr. Justin Hendricks, and my practice is Mirror Health, a virtual psychiatry clinic in Ohio. As a Christian provider, my ideal client seeks a holistic, faith-integrated approach to mental health. They may face anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and value the integration of physical, spiritual, and social well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes but need guidance to harness their strengths and set achievable goals. I provide a supportive environment that reflects their commitment to overall well-being, helping them move forward with a personalized, integrative plan.
![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 Westerville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Westerville, OH
30+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Medication Management |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Aetna |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Westerville, OH see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Westerville?
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.