Psychiatrists in Blacklick, OH

Photo of Jennifer Foresman - Balance Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Blacklick, OH 43004  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a provider who will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges? At Balance Psychiatric Services, we understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
Are you looking for a provider who will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges? At Balance Psychiatric Services, we understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
(503) 217-2913 View (503) 217-2913
Photo of Joshua Ndematebem, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joshua Ndematebem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Blacklick, OH 43004
Joshua is a down-to-earth and welcoming psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is skilled in medication management for adolescents and adults with mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, stress and trauma-related disorders, schizophrenia, and addiction related disorders (non-opioid) and others. He is experienced in outpatient and inpatient treatment modalities
Joshua is a down-to-earth and welcoming psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is skilled in medication management for adolescents and adults with mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, stress and trauma-related disorders, schizophrenia, and addiction related disorders (non-opioid) and others. He is experienced in outpatient and inpatient treatment modalities
(740) 527-6440 View (740) 527-6440
Photo of Mourine J Nyangoro, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mourine J Nyangoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Blacklick, OH 43004
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
The mental healthcare relies on cultural acceptance and transparency. My main objective as a psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner, is to use my professional expertise and experiences to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, empowering, solution oriented, and attention to holistic care. My ultimate professional goal is to work with mental health patients to achieve their highest level of mental wellbeing, despite of their physical, mental, and financial limitations.
(614) 683-4373 View (614) 683-4373
Photo of Clara D Pieh, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clara D Pieh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacklick, OH 43004  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that addresses their unique needs. Their goal is to regain emotional balance, improve relationships, and develop coping strategies for a fulfilling life.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that addresses their unique needs. Their goal is to regain emotional balance, improve relationships, and develop coping strategies for a fulfilling life.
(901) 560-8010 View (901) 560-8010
ALN Psych and Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacklick, OH 43004
To promote physical and psychological wellbeing by providing quality mental health care to our patients using evidence-based practice.
To promote physical and psychological wellbeing by providing quality mental health care to our patients using evidence-based practice.
(614) 418-6831 View (614) 418-6831

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, PMHNP, offers a wide range of services to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She provides medication management and individual therapy, helping her patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Ifeoma’s compassionate care and expertise spans a variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. She is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues and helping individuals manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, PMHNP, offers a wide range of services to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She provides medication management and individual therapy, helping her patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Ifeoma’s compassionate care and expertise spans a variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. She is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues and helping individuals manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
(614) 412-1691 View (614) 412-1691
Photo of Maureen Chinyere Odemena, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maureen Chinyere Odemena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068  (Online Only)
My name is Maureen Odemena, I am a board certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with a total of 11 years' experience. I treat patients 12 years and older with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, amongst other things.
My name is Maureen Odemena, I am a board certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with a total of 11 years' experience. I treat patients 12 years and older with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, amongst other things.
(614) 683-4572 View (614) 683-4572
Photo of Amy Everhart, MSN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Everhart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Want to know what makes psychiatric care with me 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. Here, 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 ready to help you feel your best so you can get back to living your life!
Want to know what makes psychiatric care with me 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. Here, 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 ready to help you feel your best so you can get back to living your life!
(740) 665-8579 View (740) 665-8579
Photo of Ramona Bhatt, DO, Psychiatrist
Ramona Bhatt
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
(614) 418-6712 View (614) 418-6712
Photo of Kimberly Ann Marshall, APN-BC, PMHNP-B, C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Ann Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP-B, C
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING new patients!! We offer TELEMEDICINE appointments. Call or email to schedule your appointment. If you or a loved one are suffering from depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help, we are here for you. Our program offers a variety of services delivered with kindness and empathy.. We believe in positive behavioral health and improving your quality of life by evaluating, treating and managing a variety of mental health conditions. We offer individual counseling along with medication assisted treatment. The first step to recovery is to call for an appointment.
ACCEPTING new patients!! We offer TELEMEDICINE appointments. Call or email to schedule your appointment. If you or a loved one are suffering from depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help, we are here for you. Our program offers a variety of services delivered with kindness and empathy.. We believe in positive behavioral health and improving your quality of life by evaluating, treating and managing a variety of mental health conditions. We offer individual counseling along with medication assisted treatment. The first step to recovery is to call for an appointment.
(234) 601-3221 View (234) 601-3221
Photo of Nicole Mccrackin, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Mccrackin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
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.
(380) 333-9875 View (380) 333-9875
Photo of Julia Ailts, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julia Ailts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
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.
(614) 858-3628 View (614) 858-3628
Photo of Veena Tripathi Ahuja, MD, Psychiatrist
Veena Tripathi Ahuja
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Ahuja is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Balanced Innovative Care. She has expertise in treating all mental health disorders including Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Stress-related disorders. She offers specialized diagnostic Autism evaluations, ADHD evaluations, one-time consultations, and ongoing care with medication management to patients in Ohio and Wisconsin. Online appointments are available with no waitlist including evenings and weekends. Schedule a new patient appointment directly from her website here: www.BalancedInnovativeCare.com/new-patients
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Ahuja is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Balanced Innovative Care. She has expertise in treating all mental health disorders including Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Stress-related disorders. She offers specialized diagnostic Autism evaluations, ADHD evaluations, one-time consultations, and ongoing care with medication management to patients in Ohio and Wisconsin. Online appointments are available with no waitlist including evenings and weekends. Schedule a new patient appointment directly from her website here: www.BalancedInnovativeCare.com/new-patients
(614) 660-5449 View (614) 660-5449
Photo of Khalilah K LaRue - LaRue Psychiatric Services, LLC, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LaRue Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219  (Online Only)
LaRue Psychiatric Services, LLC was established by Khalilah LaRue, C.N.P. in order to provide premier psychiatric treatment to the residents of Central Ohio in a timely manner. She is able to accommodate most clients into his schedule within one to two weeks, while still providing the highest level of compassionate care. Khalilah LaRue, CNP is able to answer any questions you may have about treatment and recovery and make the whole process a bit less intimidating. Whether you have struggled with life-long mental illness or the changes in your mood are new, we are here to help you on your road to wellness.
LaRue Psychiatric Services, LLC was established by Khalilah LaRue, C.N.P. in order to provide premier psychiatric treatment to the residents of Central Ohio in a timely manner. She is able to accommodate most clients into his schedule within one to two weeks, while still providing the highest level of compassionate care. Khalilah LaRue, CNP is able to answer any questions you may have about treatment and recovery and make the whole process a bit less intimidating. Whether you have struggled with life-long mental illness or the changes in your mood are new, we are here to help you on your road to wellness.
(614) 683-2231 View (614) 683-2231
Pamela Tegemah Nkwenti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN,, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 18 years of experience in healthcare, I am committed to helping individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and substance use disorder. I believe in creating a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 18 years of experience in healthcare, I am committed to helping individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and substance use disorder. I believe in creating a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(614) 768-6115 View (614) 768-6115
Photo of Lady Crockett, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lady Crockett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219  (Online Only)
Having worked with a diverse population within the mental health area for the past 11 years, I provide a well rounded, thorough, concise and experienced approach whether the condition is a minor or acute mental health condition/illness. I provide my clients an individualized and wholistic approach when deciding treatment modalities. In my practice, I strive to have a positive and transformative impact on the lives of my clients. I enjoy seeing my clients grow in both their professional and personal lives once their mental health needs have been addressed.
Having worked with a diverse population within the mental health area for the past 11 years, I provide a well rounded, thorough, concise and experienced approach whether the condition is a minor or acute mental health condition/illness. I provide my clients an individualized and wholistic approach when deciding treatment modalities. In my practice, I strive to have a positive and transformative impact on the lives of my clients. I enjoy seeing my clients grow in both their professional and personal lives once their mental health needs have been addressed.
(513) 654-1598 View (513) 654-1598
Photo of Tiffani Michelle Gallimore, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffani Michelle Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43203  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
(937) 880-3710 View (937) 880-3710
Photo of Suban A Warsame, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Suban A Warsame
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43231
My name is Suban Warsame. I graduated with my Master’s in Nursing with the specialty of Psychiatry and Mental Health from Northern Kentucky University. I have a passion for mental health and love working with individuals from all age groups. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD. I am passionate about women’s mental health especially post postpartum depression.
My name is Suban Warsame. I graduated with my Master’s in Nursing with the specialty of Psychiatry and Mental Health from Northern Kentucky University. I have a passion for mental health and love working with individuals from all age groups. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD. I am passionate about women’s mental health especially post postpartum depression.
(614) 412-1087 View (614) 412-1087
Photo of Adam Brandemihl - Buckeye Psychiatry, LLC, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Buckeye Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
(614) 944-8290 View (614) 944-8290
Photo of Linda Griffin Nsombi, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Griffin Nsombi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219  (Online Only)
My name is Linda Griffin Nsombi, I’ve worked in mental health for many years. Caring for clients of all ages and backgrounds as well as drug/alcohol addiction treatment. Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD and more. I look forward to assisting you with your life challenges. I will provide medication education as well as supportive therapy during medication management visit.
My name is Linda Griffin Nsombi, I’ve worked in mental health for many years. Caring for clients of all ages and backgrounds as well as drug/alcohol addiction treatment. Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD and more. I look forward to assisting you with your life challenges. I will provide medication education as well as supportive therapy during medication management visit.
(513) 540-2170 View (513) 540-2170

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Blacklick, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Blacklick, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
80% Bipolar Disorder
60% ADHD
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Blacklick, OH see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Blacklick?

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.