Psychiatrists in Beachwood, OH
![Photo of Ashley King Np-C - KC Center for Health and Wellness, LLC, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49b927e1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
KC Center for Health and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Are you or a loved one suffering from an addiction and/or depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help? Do you need a little assistance with losing weight or just need someone who is non judgmental to talk to? Are you currently looking for a psychiatric provider to refill your medication since your previous provider retired or relocated? Are you tired of waiting hours to see your provider? Are you tired of going to several specialist for your mental health, primary care and chronic pain needs? Well look no further! KC Center for Health and Wellness is here waiting for you! Call NOW! Same week availability.
Are you or a loved one suffering from an addiction and/or depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help? Do you need a little assistance with losing weight or just need someone who is non judgmental to talk to? Are you currently looking for a psychiatric provider to refill your medication since your previous provider retired or relocated? Are you tired of waiting hours to see your provider? Are you tired of going to several specialist for your mental health, primary care and chronic pain needs? Well look no further! KC Center for Health and Wellness is here waiting for you! Call NOW! Same week availability.
![Photo of Dr. Monique N Howard, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8e12091-842e-4c68-a586-c9826993f0ae/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Monique N Howard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Dr. Monique Howard, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, owner of Peace of Mind Mental Health Practice has over three decades of medical experience. She is dual certified in Family Primary Care and Mental Health. She began her career as a trauma nurse at Huron Hospital in 2001. She honed her skills in high-pressure environments, setting the stage for her distinguished journey. She has a passion for patients who are suicidal and engage in self harm behaviors. All patients deserve the best treatment options available.
Dr. Monique Howard, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, owner of Peace of Mind Mental Health Practice has over three decades of medical experience. She is dual certified in Family Primary Care and Mental Health. She began her career as a trauma nurse at Huron Hospital in 2001. She honed her skills in high-pressure environments, setting the stage for her distinguished journey. She has a passion for patients who are suicidal and engage in self harm behaviors. All patients deserve the best treatment options available.
![Photo of Dr. Elise Bonder, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1536477-722a-4789-8a08-4badbcbc876c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bonder is a board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mental health issues such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Mood disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Trauma Related Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. She has expertise in the management of patients from childhood through young adulthood.
Dr. Bonder is a board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mental health issues such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Mood disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Trauma Related Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. She has expertise in the management of patients from childhood through young adulthood.
![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 James Srp, CNP, CNS, LICDC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69d200f0-eaad-45c6-829e-5f84fd900ed7/1/320x400.jpeg)
James Srp has been working in the field of addictions for the past 30 years. He was most recently a nurse practitioner at Addiction Recovery Services of University Hospitals of Cleveland, a program he helped develop in 2004 after an 18 year tenure as a staff nurse, followed by service as a clinical nurse specialist for the Cleveland Clinic Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center. He holds a master's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University, a master's degree in nursing from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), and a bachelor's degree in nursing from Ursuline College.
James Srp has been working in the field of addictions for the past 30 years. He was most recently a nurse practitioner at Addiction Recovery Services of University Hospitals of Cleveland, a program he helped develop in 2004 after an 18 year tenure as a staff nurse, followed by service as a clinical nurse specialist for the Cleveland Clinic Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center. He holds a master's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University, a master's degree in nursing from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), and a bachelor's degree in nursing from Ursuline College.
![Photo of Dr. Mallery Neff, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb65f783-f740-4857-840a-eea7e3859580/1/320x400.png)
Triple board-certified physician in child psychiatry, pediatrics, and adult psychiatry specializing in guiding youth through challenging mental health challenges. If your child is acting out, expressing suicidal thoughts, or has experienced trauma, but lacks a formal diagnosis, I am here to help. By offering both diagnosis and targeted treatment, we ensure each child receives the personalized care they need in a structured, nurturing environment.
Triple board-certified physician in child psychiatry, pediatrics, and adult psychiatry specializing in guiding youth through challenging mental health challenges. If your child is acting out, expressing suicidal thoughts, or has experienced trauma, but lacks a formal diagnosis, I am here to help. By offering both diagnosis and targeted treatment, we ensure each child receives the personalized care they need in a structured, nurturing environment.
![Photo of Gayatriben Gadani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da08b91e-ea23-4cff-b1ab-ea739b33686d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gadani is a board-certified psychiatrist with over five years of experience in psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Medical College Baroda in India. She previously worked at Saint Louis University Hospital and Mercy Hospital South in St. Louis, Missouri. She focuses on treating adults and specializes in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorders and anxiety disorders. She is a member of the American Psychiatry Association and the Missouri Psychiatry Association.
Dr. Gadani is a board-certified psychiatrist with over five years of experience in psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Medical College Baroda in India. She previously worked at Saint Louis University Hospital and Mercy Hospital South in St. Louis, Missouri. She focuses on treating adults and specializes in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorders and anxiety disorders. She is a member of the American Psychiatry Association and the Missouri Psychiatry Association.
![Photo of Anna Popova, MSN, CNP/PM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c108c87c-6a93-4257-8077-31c40901e38c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Popova, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Anna Popova is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Akron, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College, is a Licensed Practical Nurse through ATS Institute of Technology, is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the Ohio Board of Nursing and is ANCC certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Anna Popova, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Anna Popova is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Akron, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College, is a Licensed Practical Nurse through ATS Institute of Technology, is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the Ohio Board of Nursing and is ANCC certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
![Photo of Jess Levy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61f90254-ea82-4c7c-98cf-19f8ed9cfcdb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Good psychiatric care happens during visits as well as between visits. And yet when it comes to psychiatry, 15-minute med checks once every few months is the norm. It's no wonder why so many patients are overwhelmed, frustrated, and skeptical about psychiatric care! (Don't even get me started If you have multiple conditions like ADHD and anxiety!) What if instead you worked with a psychiatrist who is open-minded, experienced, and will take the take the time to get to know you (or your child)?
Good psychiatric care happens during visits as well as between visits. And yet when it comes to psychiatry, 15-minute med checks once every few months is the norm. It's no wonder why so many patients are overwhelmed, frustrated, and skeptical about psychiatric care! (Don't even get me started If you have multiple conditions like ADHD and anxiety!) What if instead you worked with a psychiatrist who is open-minded, experienced, and will take the take the time to get to know you (or your child)?
![Photo of Nicole D Berry - The Evolution through Mind, Body, and Spirit, LLC , MSN, MHA, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af70d85c-1815-4904-b52b-19437bbaee41/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Evolution through Mind, Body, and Spirit, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MHA, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
My name is Nicole Berry, and I am a dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, or even an addiction to substances, I am here for you. My experience as a Nurse Practitioner includes, a variety of assessments for proper diagnosing, pharmacological management, group and individual therapies, and much more. With my vast experience, my goal is to assist you in becoming the best you, you can become, holistically.
My name is Nicole Berry, and I am a dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, or even an addiction to substances, I am here for you. My experience as a Nurse Practitioner includes, a variety of assessments for proper diagnosing, pharmacological management, group and individual therapies, and much more. With my vast experience, my goal is to assist you in becoming the best you, you can become, holistically.
![Photo of Eileen Zehe, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9d166e8-78a0-4c8b-a914-fe7c4ea86fa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eileen Zehe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I am passionate about helping people live their best lives. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience providing care to individuals from ages 4-50. I have advanced training in treating children and adolescents struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression and mood disorders.
I am passionate about helping people live their best lives. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience providing care to individuals from ages 4-50. I have advanced training in treating children and adolescents struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression and mood disorders.
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![Photo of Deanna Berry, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce27cf49-aebe-4f6c-b4ac-76ec64b087b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deanna Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Deanna Berry is a nurse practitioner dually certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as adult-geriatric primary care. She has 20 years experience as nurse. She received her bachelor's degree, master's degree and post-master's certification in nursing from Ursuline College in Cleveland, OH and is certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
Deanna Berry is a nurse practitioner dually certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as adult-geriatric primary care. She has 20 years experience as nurse. She received her bachelor's degree, master's degree and post-master's certification in nursing from Ursuline College in Cleveland, OH and is certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
![Photo of Alex McCormick, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca4c9796-436a-488c-a897-c83de758649e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alex McCormick
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Waitlist for new clients
I help those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, or illness that keeps them from fulfilling their full potential. My approach is to optimize wellness by combining integrative and holistic principles with the traditional practice of psychiatry. As an osteopathic physician, my foundation is based on principles of treating the whole person, incorporating mind, body, and spirit; acknowledging that the body is capable of self-regulation and self-healing; and realizing that structure and function are reciprocally related.
I help those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, or illness that keeps them from fulfilling their full potential. My approach is to optimize wellness by combining integrative and holistic principles with the traditional practice of psychiatry. As an osteopathic physician, my foundation is based on principles of treating the whole person, incorporating mind, body, and spirit; acknowledging that the body is capable of self-regulation and self-healing; and realizing that structure and function are reciprocally related.
![Photo of Daniel Gonzalez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f9b9f6a-2c29-4f63-880a-2fd059d81be3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients! My name is Dr. Daniel Gonzalez. I'm a Cleveland native who completed undergraduate at Miami University of Ohio before going into medical school at the University of Toledo. After obtaining my medical degree (M.D.), I then completed my Adult Psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic. I am currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in Adult Psychiatry. I work exclusively with adults (18+), and while I have a special interest in mood and anxiety disorders I see the full spectrum of psychiatric illnesses. I also particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
Accepting new patients! My name is Dr. Daniel Gonzalez. I'm a Cleveland native who completed undergraduate at Miami University of Ohio before going into medical school at the University of Toledo. After obtaining my medical degree (M.D.), I then completed my Adult Psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic. I am currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in Adult Psychiatry. I work exclusively with adults (18+), and while I have a special interest in mood and anxiety disorders I see the full spectrum of psychiatric illnesses. I also particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
![Photo of Laurie Lynn Mandel, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d20822a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Lynn Mandel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122 (Online Only)
Ready to become the optimal version of yourself and enhance your relationships? With dual certification in Family and Psychiatric Nursing, and proficiency as a wellness and health coach, I am uniquely equipped to guide you through this transformative process. I offer mental fitness coaching for individuals and couples.
Ready to become the optimal version of yourself and enhance your relationships? With dual certification in Family and Psychiatric Nursing, and proficiency as a wellness and health coach, I am uniquely equipped to guide you through this transformative process. I offer mental fitness coaching for individuals and couples.
![Photo of Noah L Miller, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51a01a84-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified in both general psychiatry and child & adolescent psychiatry. As such, I not only see children and adolescents but also young adults. I prefer to work with this age group but I will consider working with middle-aged adults as long as it is a good "fit" for my practice. Also please know that my practice is not in any insurance networks, though we will submit all billing to your insurance so that you can collect any out-of-network benefits. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating ADHD & behavioral disorders, depression & other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and autism spectrum disorder.
I am board certified in both general psychiatry and child & adolescent psychiatry. As such, I not only see children and adolescents but also young adults. I prefer to work with this age group but I will consider working with middle-aged adults as long as it is a good "fit" for my practice. Also please know that my practice is not in any insurance networks, though we will submit all billing to your insurance so that you can collect any out-of-network benefits. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating ADHD & behavioral disorders, depression & other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and autism spectrum disorder.
![Photo of Meredith Mahilo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8ab7f0b-288d-4aa9-9e00-cba694d380b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mahilo is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her psychiatry training at Cleveland Clinic Akron General/Summa Health, where she served as a chief resident. She earned her medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University and her undergraduate degree from Kent State University. She is a member of the American Medical Association. She has experience working with adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Mahilo's specialty areas of interest include the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorders and depression.
Dr. Mahilo is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed her psychiatry training at Cleveland Clinic Akron General/Summa Health, where she served as a chief resident. She earned her medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University and her undergraduate degree from Kent State University. She is a member of the American Medical Association. She has experience working with adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Mahilo's specialty areas of interest include the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorders and depression.
![Photo of Emily Cao, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8c28bdf-e803-4168-9eda-890cea7dc82b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cao is a child and adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mental health issues in children, adolescents, and young adults. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She attended the University of Cincinnati, where she graduated magna cum laude. After completing medical school at the University of Toledo College of Medicine, Dr. Cao served as Chief Resident for Consultation and Liaison Psychiatry during her adult psychiatry training at the University of Toledo Medical Center, where she was also recognized by the Department of Psychiatry with the Excellence in Teaching Award.
Dr. Cao is a child and adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of mental health issues in children, adolescents, and young adults. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She attended the University of Cincinnati, where she graduated magna cum laude. After completing medical school at the University of Toledo College of Medicine, Dr. Cao served as Chief Resident for Consultation and Liaison Psychiatry during her adult psychiatry training at the University of Toledo Medical Center, where she was also recognized by the Department of Psychiatry with the Excellence in Teaching Award.
![Photo of Jennifer Tucker Rosenberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e7ce9a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work together with my patients to discover the emotional pain they are experiencing. I feel open communication and listening is crucial to both making a diagnosis and to understanding a person and their struggles. I work closely with my patients to establish a diagnosis and the course of treatment. I find that therapy and medication alone or in combination can be very helpful. I work with people who struggle with life challenges included but not limited to anxiety, depression,life transitions,divorce, adhd,trauma,depression, anxiety,anxiety and depression in pregnancy and postpartum,infertility,relationship issues
I work together with my patients to discover the emotional pain they are experiencing. I feel open communication and listening is crucial to both making a diagnosis and to understanding a person and their struggles. I work closely with my patients to establish a diagnosis and the course of treatment. I find that therapy and medication alone or in combination can be very helpful. I work with people who struggle with life challenges included but not limited to anxiety, depression,life transitions,divorce, adhd,trauma,depression, anxiety,anxiety and depression in pregnancy and postpartum,infertility,relationship issues
![Photo of Larissa Elgudin - ADHD Assessment at DELR, MD, CNS, PhD, LISW, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/745e1fdd-1db9-4a00-9781-dd05d351210f/2/320x400.jpeg)
DELR offers comprehensive ADHD assessment, evaluation and treatment. The evaluation includes taking an objective, computerized test, the QbTest, which is an FDA approved advanced test for the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. It is also used to gain a clear understanding of ADHD symptoms. The QbTest measures activity level, impulse control, and the ability to maintain attention. The results of the QbTest are used to create a report which compares an individual's results with data from other people of the same sex and age.
DELR offers comprehensive ADHD assessment, evaluation and treatment. The evaluation includes taking an objective, computerized test, the QbTest, which is an FDA approved advanced test for the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. It is also used to gain a clear understanding of ADHD symptoms. The QbTest measures activity level, impulse control, and the ability to maintain attention. The results of the QbTest are used to create a report which compares an individual's results with data from other people of the same sex and age.
See more therapy options for Beachwood
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Beachwood, OH
30+
Average cost per session
$212
Psychiatrists in Beachwood, OH who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
91% | Medication Management |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | Medical Mutual |
How Psychiatrists in Beachwood, OH see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
56% | Female | |
44% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Beachwood?
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.