Psychiatrists in Crooksville, OH

Photo of Cindy L Dunkle, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cindy L Dunkle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Crooksville, OH 43731  (Online Only)
I specialize in adult (18+) mental health and wellness through assessment, diagnosis and treatment with education and medication management. People are the experts in recognizing their needs, so I encourage them to be active participants in their care through collaboration and by validating their feelings and lived experiences. I will do my best to help each person move forward to live their best life and appreciate the opportunity to be a part of each persons’ journey to wellness.
I specialize in adult (18+) mental health and wellness through assessment, diagnosis and treatment with education and medication management. People are the experts in recognizing their needs, so I encourage them to be active participants in their care through collaboration and by validating their feelings and lived experiences. I will do my best to help each person move forward to live their best life and appreciate the opportunity to be a part of each persons’ journey to wellness.
(740) 521-4319 View (740) 521-4319

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pickerington, OH 43147
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(614) 654-4464 View (614) 654-4464
Photo of Madison Bertram, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madison Bertram
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
She began her career as a registered nurse working at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Madison treats patients with a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
She began her career as a registered nurse working at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Madison treats patients with a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
(630) 360-8279 View (630) 360-8279
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(614) 877-6273 View (614) 877-6273
Photo of Steven Aslanides, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steven Aslanides
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Canton, OH 44721  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Steven Aslanides, a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with my bachelors and master from Akron University and I am board certified through the ANCC.
Hello! I am Steven Aslanides, a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with my bachelors and master from Akron University and I am board certified through the ANCC.
(234) 813-5192 View (234) 813-5192
Photo of Misty McDowell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Misty McDowell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in psychiatry and five years of experience in treating addiction and alcohol dependence, and I am only licensed in Ohio. I specialize in providing mental health services for clients who have depression, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, social anxiety, post-partum depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, tourette's disorder, excoriation skin-picking disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmare disorder, night-tear disorder, eating disorders, etc.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in psychiatry and five years of experience in treating addiction and alcohol dependence, and I am only licensed in Ohio. I specialize in providing mental health services for clients who have depression, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, social anxiety, post-partum depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, tourette's disorder, excoriation skin-picking disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmare disorder, night-tear disorder, eating disorders, etc.
(614) 683-3586 View (614) 683-3586
Photo of Chris Mccourt, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chris Mccourt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Fairlawn, OH 44333
Christopher likes to use his knowledge, empathy, and understanding to help formulate a plan with you to tackle your mental health condition. Christopher feels like he does more than just prescribe medications. He tries to tailor each session to meet the person’s needs by also incorporating some therapy into the session as well as discussing if medications are an option. His goal is to stabilize your mental health and continue working hard with you until that goal is obtained.
Christopher likes to use his knowledge, empathy, and understanding to help formulate a plan with you to tackle your mental health condition. Christopher feels like he does more than just prescribe medications. He tries to tailor each session to meet the person’s needs by also incorporating some therapy into the session as well as discussing if medications are an option. His goal is to stabilize your mental health and continue working hard with you until that goal is obtained.
(440) 294-8378 View (440) 294-8378
Photo of Shumeka Hill, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shumeka Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230  (Online Only)
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
(312) 313-1527 View (312) 313-1527
Photo of Danielle Ginter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Ginter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43212  (Online Only)
Danielle Ginter is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP) with over 7 years of experience assisting adult clients who need help coping with the effects of anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
Danielle Ginter is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP) with over 7 years of experience assisting adult clients who need help coping with the effects of anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
(614) 881-5852 View (614) 881-5852
Photo of Akeem Adeniyi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Akeem Adeniyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a licensed Professional Psychiatry NP base in Lima, Ohio. I received two Masters degree from University of Cincinnati, one in Family practice NP, and one as a Psychiatry NP and board certified by ANCC and AANP. I have been practicing for 5 years has Psych NP and i have been opportune to be of service to many patients. It is a great privilege in helping others, as bringing happiness to others through my job bring happiness to me as well. I am passionate about mental health and look forward to meeting you today!
Hi! I'm a licensed Professional Psychiatry NP base in Lima, Ohio. I received two Masters degree from University of Cincinnati, one in Family practice NP, and one as a Psychiatry NP and board certified by ANCC and AANP. I have been practicing for 5 years has Psych NP and i have been opportune to be of service to many patients. It is a great privilege in helping others, as bringing happiness to others through my job bring happiness to me as well. I am passionate about mental health and look forward to meeting you today!
(513) 866-4241 View (513) 866-4241
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluations 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 out of pocket rates. Also Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluations 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 out of pocket rates. Also Accepting some insurance plans.
(614) 347-0826 View (614) 347-0826
Photo of Otto Kausch, MD, Psychiatrist
Otto Kausch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44320
I welcome all people who struggle with mental illness and life stresses. I also help those who struggle with relationship problems and have difficulty managing their emotions.I have been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years since completing my residency training in adult psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University. I have practiced in multiple clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient and Intensive outpatient programs. I see both adults and adolescents. In addition to medication management for most psychiatric disorders, I often also provide individual psychotherapy, marital therapy and family therapy.
I welcome all people who struggle with mental illness and life stresses. I also help those who struggle with relationship problems and have difficulty managing their emotions.I have been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years since completing my residency training in adult psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University. I have practiced in multiple clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient and Intensive outpatient programs. I see both adults and adolescents. In addition to medication management for most psychiatric disorders, I often also provide individual psychotherapy, marital therapy and family therapy.
(440) 745-5775 View (440) 745-5775
Photo of Larissa (Lacey) Mehling, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Larissa (Lacey) Mehling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Larissa Lacey Mehling is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Lacey has several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health NP, Lacey worked for many years on an inpatient child/adolescent psychiatry unit. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in Psychology from The Ohio State University and one in Nursing from Ashland University.
Larissa Lacey Mehling is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Lacey has several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health NP, Lacey worked for many years on an inpatient child/adolescent psychiatry unit. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in Psychology from The Ohio State University and one in Nursing from Ashland University.
(740) 841-1606 View (740) 841-1606
Photo of Lacey Kolb, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lacey Kolb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner who sees patients across the lifespan. I attended the Ohio State University where I received my Masters in Nursing. I have work in both community mental health and private practice settings. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and value collaboration with therapists and other health care providers. My focus of treatment is to reduce debilitating symptoms, foster wellness and improve each individual's quality of life. I believe in partnership within medical decision making and values each patient’s active participation in their treatment.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner who sees patients across the lifespan. I attended the Ohio State University where I received my Masters in Nursing. I have work in both community mental health and private practice settings. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and value collaboration with therapists and other health care providers. My focus of treatment is to reduce debilitating symptoms, foster wellness and improve each individual's quality of life. I believe in partnership within medical decision making and values each patient’s active participation in their treatment.
(614) 392-5933 View (614) 392-5933
Photo of Sophia Kassem, DO, Psychiatrist
Sophia Kassem
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6 to 21. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6 to 21. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
(614) 762-9571 View (614) 762-9571
Photo of Holly Lecklider, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Lecklider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
I am committed to improving the quality of life for my patients by providing compassionate, inclusive, and high-quality psychiatric care using a person-centered and evidence-based approach to treatment.
I am committed to improving the quality of life for my patients by providing compassionate, inclusive, and high-quality psychiatric care using a person-centered and evidence-based approach to treatment.
(380) 227-3140 View (380) 227-3140
Photo of Dr. Megan Verlage, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Megan Verlage
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
Hello! My name is Dr. Megan Verlage and I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry. While I treat a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan in both women and men, my area of interest is in Women’s Mental Health. I have specialized training in helping with psychiatric needs related to pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, pre-menstrual syndromes, and peri-menopause. I created my practice so that I could give the type of individualized and specialized care I feel these delicate situations deserve. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.
Hello! My name is Dr. Megan Verlage and I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry. While I treat a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan in both women and men, my area of interest is in Women’s Mental Health. I have specialized training in helping with psychiatric needs related to pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, pre-menstrual syndromes, and peri-menopause. I created my practice so that I could give the type of individualized and specialized care I feel these delicate situations deserve. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.
(380) 333-5269 View (380) 333-5269
Photo of Katie Stanford - Harmony Psychiatric Services, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harmony Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Athens, OH 45701
Accepting New Spravato Patients- Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers Spravato (esketamine) treatment, medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
Accepting New Spravato Patients- Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers Spravato (esketamine) treatment, medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
(740) 224-8976 View (740) 224-8976
Photo of Dr. Alyson Appleton, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Alyson Appleton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
I pride myself on being a relatable psychiatrist with extensive knowledge about psychiatric diagnoses and medications. Family, nutrition, and outdoor activities are important to me. I look forward to learning what’s important to you.
I pride myself on being a relatable psychiatrist with extensive knowledge about psychiatric diagnoses and medications. Family, nutrition, and outdoor activities are important to me. I look forward to learning what’s important to you.
(614) 953-6051 View (614) 953-6051
Photo of Evan Silverland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evan Silverland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you struggling with your mental health? Have you attempted therapy and utilized coping skills without much relief? Unsure if medication is appropriate for you or is what you're currently taking not working? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help guide you in this decision making process. I see patients of all ages experiencing a wide range of illness, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Are you struggling with your mental health? Have you attempted therapy and utilized coping skills without much relief? Unsure if medication is appropriate for you or is what you're currently taking not working? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help guide you in this decision making process. I see patients of all ages experiencing a wide range of illness, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(614) 756-6898 View (614) 756-6898

See more therapy options for Crooksville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Crooksville, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Crooksville, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Grief

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Crooksville, OH see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Crooksville?

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.