Psychiatrists in Avon Lake, OH
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97a37d5e-1cfd-4254-baa8-1e73590523f3/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Avon Lake, OH 44012 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of Diab Almhana, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cee2d18d-6027-4ea0-a636-eed22ec46915/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allowing me to walk along your journey is a privilige, I will listen, wonder and plan with you to reach your goals. Tailering the medication management with other solutions to integrate to reach further holistic way of life. Along with this approach we had offered through our clinical trial center many oppurtunities to try novel medications for many indications covering the spectrum of all ages for disorders like bipolar, generalized anxiety, autism spectrum, major depression to mention a few.
Allowing me to walk along your journey is a privilige, I will listen, wonder and plan with you to reach your goals. Tailering the medication management with other solutions to integrate to reach further holistic way of life. Along with this approach we had offered through our clinical trial center many oppurtunities to try novel medications for many indications covering the spectrum of all ages for disorders like bipolar, generalized anxiety, autism spectrum, major depression to mention a few.
![Photo of James Bukuts, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9911f2c2-6b48-4e72-96ca-4775796e7984/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Bukuts has been practicing for more than 20 years in the Cleveland area. Jamie completed his adult psychiatry residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland plus recently completed a fellowship in public and community psychiatry through Case Western University in 2017. His specialty areas of interest include adult major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He joined LifeStance Health almost 4 years ago and enjoys their comprehensive services that are available to holistically help his patients.
Jamie Bukuts has been practicing for more than 20 years in the Cleveland area. Jamie completed his adult psychiatry residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland plus recently completed a fellowship in public and community psychiatry through Case Western University in 2017. His specialty areas of interest include adult major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He joined LifeStance Health almost 4 years ago and enjoys their comprehensive services that are available to holistically help his patients.
![Photo of Krista McDonald, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77a3587a-1cef-476c-a224-f5f57d020795/2/320x400.jpeg)
Krista McDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon Lake, OH 44012 (Online Only)
Krista Mousted is a dual certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health, who has been practicing since 2007. She graduated from University of Tampa with a master's degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master's certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master's certificate in psychiatric mental health. Her current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner Krista worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
Krista Mousted is a dual certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry/mental health, who has been practicing since 2007. She graduated from University of Tampa with a master's degree in nursing, University of Akron with a post-master's certificate in family practice, and Ohio University with a post-master's certificate in psychiatric mental health. Her current focus/specialty is general psychiatry for pediatrics and adults. Prior to being a nurse practitioner Krista worked for 25 years as an LPN/RN with part of that time working as a medic in the United States Air Force.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Adit Adityanjee - Nirvana Health & Wellness, Inc., MD, MBBS, MRCPsy, DipAB, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e9f422-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nirvana Health & Wellness, Inc.
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS, MRCPsy, DipAB
Verified Verified
Westlake, OH 44145
I am excellent at what I do. I provide evidence based, state of the art, medication management for Psychiatric Disorders. I have practiced Psychiatry for 40 years in diverse settings. I specialize in services for treatment resistant patients. I also provide expert opinion for guardianship applications. We provide Cognitive Testing, Pharmacogenomic Counseling, Pre-Nuptial Counseling & Telehealth services on pre-paid cash payment basis. We also provide individual therapy in selected cases. Same day appointments are available on cash payment basis only. No-shows and cancellation fees apply. TMS services available at Lorain office now.
I am excellent at what I do. I provide evidence based, state of the art, medication management for Psychiatric Disorders. I have practiced Psychiatry for 40 years in diverse settings. I specialize in services for treatment resistant patients. I also provide expert opinion for guardianship applications. We provide Cognitive Testing, Pharmacogenomic Counseling, Pre-Nuptial Counseling & Telehealth services on pre-paid cash payment basis. We also provide individual therapy in selected cases. Same day appointments are available on cash payment basis only. No-shows and cancellation fees apply. TMS services available at Lorain office now.
![Photo of Elizabeth Shelley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/725d665b-fcb3-49ee-8c68-060d5fe81036/2/320x400.png)
My name is Dr. Elizabeth Shelley, I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I am dedicated to providing expert and compassionate medication management and therapy to individuals starting from the age of 8 through adulthood. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish. For more information, visit my website at elizabethshelleymd.com.
My name is Dr. Elizabeth Shelley, I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I am dedicated to providing expert and compassionate medication management and therapy to individuals starting from the age of 8 through adulthood. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish. For more information, visit my website at elizabethshelleymd.com.
![Photo of Pascale Davis - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d01873db-9ced-411c-bd3c-ba4177a46866/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lorain, OH 44052 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluation and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates out of pocket rates. Also accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Jenna Bennett, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14b53202-bb10-4feb-abe7-3b49cbad81c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Bennett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elyria, OH 44035
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who takes an integrated approach in treatment. I offer treatment based on the need of the individual such as medication management, psychotherapy, collaboration and education on wellness. I review labs with my patients and discuss any imbalance that may be contributing to the symptoms. I believe vitamin deficiency, hormonal imbalances and thyroid imbalances can be linked to many mental health symptoms. I am a strong believer a healthy mind exists in a healthy body.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who takes an integrated approach in treatment. I offer treatment based on the need of the individual such as medication management, psychotherapy, collaboration and education on wellness. I review labs with my patients and discuss any imbalance that may be contributing to the symptoms. I believe vitamin deficiency, hormonal imbalances and thyroid imbalances can be linked to many mental health symptoms. I am a strong believer a healthy mind exists in a healthy body.
![Photo of Louis Zamudio Jr., MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3153e2-7a76-461a-84b9-4e8a72e6da7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are anxiety, stress, depression, anger or even mood swings interrupting you realizing your best self? Is talk therapy just not enough? If you experience sleep difficulties, disturbing traumatic memories, relentless depression or panic attacks, you may need some additional support. Medication is one option, however, sometimes people may see this as the only option. Many people are better served when treated by a specialist who is trained to carefully consider a person’s unique personality, life stressors and even family history before issuing a prescription. I also offer genetic testing to help inform best treatment options.
Are anxiety, stress, depression, anger or even mood swings interrupting you realizing your best self? Is talk therapy just not enough? If you experience sleep difficulties, disturbing traumatic memories, relentless depression or panic attacks, you may need some additional support. Medication is one option, however, sometimes people may see this as the only option. Many people are better served when treated by a specialist who is trained to carefully consider a person’s unique personality, life stressors and even family history before issuing a prescription. I also offer genetic testing to help inform best treatment options.
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/810c7487-c06c-479c-91ba-a7afbb08d306/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lorain, OH 44052 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of Kelly D Brill, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00a94441-dac1-4c59-b534-0fe846a192e6/1/320x400.png)
Kelly D Brill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
My patients have a variety of concerns and are seeking medication management to treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar disorders, and substance use disorder. Most patients are adults but I treat ages 5 years and up. LGBTQIA+ inclusive. Treatment goals and plans are created with you, not for you. I'll help you understand the diagnosis, possible treatments, and what non-medication options are also effective. Please schedule at SongbirdPsychiatric.com
My patients have a variety of concerns and are seeking medication management to treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar disorders, and substance use disorder. Most patients are adults but I treat ages 5 years and up. LGBTQIA+ inclusive. Treatment goals and plans are created with you, not for you. I'll help you understand the diagnosis, possible treatments, and what non-medication options are also effective. Please schedule at SongbirdPsychiatric.com
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f51b0b3-2da2-4476-92d1-8dfba8692040/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lorain, OH 44055 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/857b5dcb-8785-4856-af91-3d0bdaee03a2/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Ridgeville, OH 44039 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of David Kwon, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8435c16a-f0f9-4f15-a700-b866011ebaf9/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Kwon is a board-certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner. He master's and doctoral degrees in nursing from Case Western Reserve University. His previous experience includes providing psychiatric services to patients in both community and private practice settings. He currently provides medication management to adult patients ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
David Kwon is a board-certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner. He master's and doctoral degrees in nursing from Case Western Reserve University. His previous experience includes providing psychiatric services to patients in both community and private practice settings. He currently provides medication management to adult patients ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
![Photo of Theophilus Arthur-Mensah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/479cd4b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Theophilus Arthur-Mensah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sheffield Village, OH 44054 (Online Only)
My focus is on making precise and accurate diagnoses that then drive my psychopharmacologic approaches. I also employ an eclectic psychotherapeutic approach that includes using biblical perspectives as well as psychodynamic and cognitive restructuring modalities. I place a strong emphasis on establishing rapport and using the most robust psychotherapeutic approaches in dealing with complicated and treatment-resistant cases. I also employ much flexibility in my time spent with patients to allow for maximum effectiveness.
My focus is on making precise and accurate diagnoses that then drive my psychopharmacologic approaches. I also employ an eclectic psychotherapeutic approach that includes using biblical perspectives as well as psychodynamic and cognitive restructuring modalities. I place a strong emphasis on establishing rapport and using the most robust psychotherapeutic approaches in dealing with complicated and treatment-resistant cases. I also employ much flexibility in my time spent with patients to allow for maximum effectiveness.
![Photo of Brandy Hill, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd294d13-fc5a-4ed1-8516-f43c59137b56/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandy S. Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Living in today's world can be difficult. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or ADHD? Cognitive behavior therapy and medication management are techniques that can be used to treat your symptoms. Brandy specializes in treating mental health needs and addiction. She is available for after-hour appointments to meet the needs of clients who work and attend school during the day. Brandy became a mental health provider to decrease the negative stigma associated with mental illness.
Brandy S. Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Living in today's world can be difficult. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or ADHD? Cognitive behavior therapy and medication management are techniques that can be used to treat your symptoms. Brandy specializes in treating mental health needs and addiction. She is available for after-hour appointments to meet the needs of clients who work and attend school during the day. Brandy became a mental health provider to decrease the negative stigma associated with mental illness.
![Photo of Michele Norman, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7289d37f-28d4-43e6-ad09-f38e7006f7ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Norman earned her Master's in Nursing and Masters of Science in Nursing degrees from Case Western Reserve University. Upon graduation, she was board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 3 years at this point and her clinical practice has been based primarily in outpatient community settings, where she sees patients ranging in age from 6 to 90. Those skills are incorporated in her treatment plans and appointments. Her specializations include PTSD and other trauma related illness, ADHD, depression, anxiety and adjustment/transition issues.
Michele Norman earned her Master's in Nursing and Masters of Science in Nursing degrees from Case Western Reserve University. Upon graduation, she was board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 3 years at this point and her clinical practice has been based primarily in outpatient community settings, where she sees patients ranging in age from 6 to 90. Those skills are incorporated in her treatment plans and appointments. Her specializations include PTSD and other trauma related illness, ADHD, depression, anxiety and adjustment/transition issues.
![Photo of Jennifer Mlady, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/605aa482-dfef-409e-b13f-3c429275a834/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Mlady provides compassionate and evidence-based care to clients of all ages. With a client-centered approach, Jennifer focuses on realistic treatment goals, fostering a therapeutic environment that addresses the whole person. Jennifer specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, offering expertise in medical conditions/health psychology and post-partum depression/anxiety. Her passion lies in supporting individuals facing reproductive challenges and trauma-related conditions like PTSD.
Jennifer Mlady provides compassionate and evidence-based care to clients of all ages. With a client-centered approach, Jennifer focuses on realistic treatment goals, fostering a therapeutic environment that addresses the whole person. Jennifer specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, offering expertise in medical conditions/health psychology and post-partum depression/anxiety. Her passion lies in supporting individuals facing reproductive challenges and trauma-related conditions like PTSD.
![Photo of Carly Hamaoui, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eebb217-54ca-4a18-9b80-8b4a6a8fd8d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carly Hamaoui is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in psychology from Cleveland State University, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Walden University, and has her ACM Accreditation as an Accredited Case Manager-RN. Working in mental health has always been Carly's passion and she strives to normalize the importance of prioritizing one's mental health and self-care needs.
Carly Hamaoui is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in psychology from Cleveland State University, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Walden University, and has her ACM Accreditation as an Accredited Case Manager-RN. Working in mental health has always been Carly's passion and she strives to normalize the importance of prioritizing one's mental health and self-care needs.
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4c266a3-6289-493d-8009-cefec9b7ee38/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rocky River, OH 44116 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
See more therapy options for Avon Lake
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Avon Lake, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Avon Lake, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Depression |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Avon Lake, OH see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Male | |
25% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Avon Lake?
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.