Psychiatrists in Delaware County, OH
![Photo of Amy Smith, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e50130b3-6bc5-4dbc-9776-522c47972767/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for a provider to partner with you to identify and treat the root causes of mental health symptoms and suffering? As a dually certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Amy Smith practices from an integrative psychiatric approach to exploring the mental health symptoms, physical health, environmental and lifestyle components of a person’s life to identify root causes and develop a comprehensive treatment map to reach optimal mental health wellness.
Are you looking for a provider to partner with you to identify and treat the root causes of mental health symptoms and suffering? As a dually certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Amy Smith practices from an integrative psychiatric approach to exploring the mental health symptoms, physical health, environmental and lifestyle components of a person’s life to identify root causes and develop a comprehensive treatment map to reach optimal mental health wellness.
![Photo of Kathryn Hendricks, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b467316-96e2-4b4a-b917-a02f24b970c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
Kathryn Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. As a psych mental health nurse practitioner with a background of nursing experience including family practice, Kathryn can offer the unique service of seeing the whole person when diagnosing and treating mental illness. Her background and experience have helped her to recognize both the risk and benefits of medication over the long term.
![Photo of Megan Correll, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/530a3fcb-63ce-4785-9ddc-8f9e250a337a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Correll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082 (Online Only)
My name is Megan Correll PMHNP, CNP. I provide exclusively online services through my practice “Next Chapter Psychiatry.” I believe mental health care is NOT one size fits all, and because of this, it's my priority to tailor care specific to a person and their life experiences. I also want to make communication more effective and provide thorough all-around care and provide direct communication with your provider with prompt response times. Due to this, I offer longer appointment times, along with evening and weekend appointment availability. My goal is to eliminate as many barriers as possible to give you the treatment you deserve.
My name is Megan Correll PMHNP, CNP. I provide exclusively online services through my practice “Next Chapter Psychiatry.” I believe mental health care is NOT one size fits all, and because of this, it's my priority to tailor care specific to a person and their life experiences. I also want to make communication more effective and provide thorough all-around care and provide direct communication with your provider with prompt response times. Due to this, I offer longer appointment times, along with evening and weekend appointment availability. My goal is to eliminate as many barriers as possible to give you the treatment you deserve.
![Photo of Dr. Justin Hendricks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f2a449c-307a-46d3-9e7a-e8c1f894d472/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Justin Hendricks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Justin Hendricks, owner and operator of Mirror Health, a virtual psychiatry clinic in Ohio. As a Christian provider, my ideal client seeks a holistic, faith-integrated approach to mental health. They may face anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and value the integration of physical, spiritual, and social well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes but need guidance to harness their strengths and set achievable goals. I provide a supportive environment that reflects their commitment to overall well-being, helping them move forward with a personalized, integrative plan.
My name is Dr. Justin Hendricks, owner and operator of Mirror Health, a virtual psychiatry clinic in Ohio. As a Christian provider, my ideal client seeks a holistic, faith-integrated approach to mental health. They may face anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and value the integration of physical, spiritual, and social well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes but need guidance to harness their strengths and set achievable goals. I provide a supportive environment that reflects their commitment to overall well-being, helping them move forward with a personalized, integrative plan.
![Photo of Barbara Jones Warren, PhD, APRN, PMH-BC, FNAP, FAAN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/517ddc39-3caf-480b-b037-7c7c83f03c42/3/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Jones Warren
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, PMH-BC, FNAP, FAAN
Verified Verified
Powell, OH 43065
My overall aim is to provide the best evidence-based level of care for my clients. I care about them and what they need. I work collaborative with clients to develop goals and how to achieve them. I also want to make certain that others the client cares about are included in our collaborative planning process. My ideal client is the one who I am working with at the time! I am Board Certified at the Doctorate level to provide therapies and biopsychosocial care for ages 13 years and throughout the lifespan. I use mindfulness and a calm atmosphere in order to meet individual, couple, family and even community needs.
My overall aim is to provide the best evidence-based level of care for my clients. I care about them and what they need. I work collaborative with clients to develop goals and how to achieve them. I also want to make certain that others the client cares about are included in our collaborative planning process. My ideal client is the one who I am working with at the time! I am Board Certified at the Doctorate level to provide therapies and biopsychosocial care for ages 13 years and throughout the lifespan. I use mindfulness and a calm atmosphere in order to meet individual, couple, family and even community needs.
![Photo of Kinsey Reeves, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f44cd740-59f7-4709-b36c-c261d296d9c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kinsey Reeves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Powell, OH 43065
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
![Photo of Rachael Faris, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8c9da33-1777-4694-92ce-f0fa7190bdd9/1/320x400.png)
My goal is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services offering personalized assessments, evidence-based treatments, and compassionate care. Specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Dedicated to fostering mental well-being through a holistic and patient-centered approach. Offers some weekend and evening appointments.
My goal is to provide comprehensive psychiatric services offering personalized assessments, evidence-based treatments, and compassionate care. Specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Dedicated to fostering mental well-being through a holistic and patient-centered approach. Offers some weekend and evening appointments.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/003170af-9e17-4880-9c88-11a83ffbc2fb/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac1f03bf-598c-470b-9927-f5d5e7c9912e/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/406ca859-d307-41e1-849b-ae1a05553dd4/1/320x400.png)
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Ian Marconi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c286ed77-d370-4d55-9a15-3a54ae2d2e0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ian Marconi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Ian M. Marconi MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a 2002 graduate from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a 2007 graduate of Mt. Carmel College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a 2021 graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Psych-Mental Health. I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU.
Ian M. Marconi MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a 2002 graduate from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a 2007 graduate of Mt. Carmel College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a 2021 graduate of Northern Kentucky University with a Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Psych-Mental Health. I have 15 years of experience specializing in the care of complex surgical, trauma and burn patients, with 13 of those years at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center SICU.
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![Photo of Kerri Pearch, APRN, PMHNP, ENP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ee6c9e-ec5f-4c47-a485-6e5a36445a35/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kerri Pearch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ENP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240 (Online Only)
Kerri Pearch is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMH-BC) with over 25 years nursing experience, including with Cleveland Clinic. She also holds certifications as a nurse practitioner in both family and emergency medicine. She has served as an adjunct professor at Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences and as a preceptor for Chamberlain University’s nurse practitioner program. Kerri's medical training has equipped her to provide excellent care and support to patients with chronic mental illnesses, cognitive impairment, and functional loss due to mental health issues.
Kerri Pearch is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMH-BC) with over 25 years nursing experience, including with Cleveland Clinic. She also holds certifications as a nurse practitioner in both family and emergency medicine. She has served as an adjunct professor at Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences and as a preceptor for Chamberlain University’s nurse practitioner program. Kerri's medical training has equipped her to provide excellent care and support to patients with chronic mental illnesses, cognitive impairment, and functional loss due to mental health issues.
![Photo of Maureen Chinyere Odemena, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/386f28a5-6640-40cc-a188-b77758fb50af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen Chinyere Odemena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082 (Online Only)
My name is Maureen Odemena, I am a board certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with a total of 11 years' experience. I treat patients 12 years and older with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, amongst other things.
My name is Maureen Odemena, I am a board certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with a total of 11 years' experience. I treat patients 12 years and older with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, amongst other things.
Ardent Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BS
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035 (Online Only)
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Mark Tuvelle, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58987de8-8c91-4068-8e05-d8aeb79c912c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mark Tuvelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Delaware, OH 43015 (Online Only)
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and want to always ensure that my clients feel they are “being listened to”. I believe a provider must truly listen to understand their client’s concerns, thus ensuring that the patient's priorities are being addressed. I prioritize health promotion, patient education, and psychotherapy.
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and want to always ensure that my clients feel they are “being listened to”. I believe a provider must truly listen to understand their client’s concerns, thus ensuring that the patient's priorities are being addressed. I prioritize health promotion, patient education, and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Adam Scott Brandemihl, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf41528-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
![Photo of Scott Yoho, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49dd5fe8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
No wait time for appointments - we believe patients deserve access to real time mental health care Did you know Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center treats patients 13 years of age and older? This age group is severely underserved in the mental health community, and our goal is to provide real time mental health care for all. Online appointments available now for adolescents in need! Serving Ohio through the convenience of online appointments and a growing network of locations.
No wait time for appointments - we believe patients deserve access to real time mental health care Did you know Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center treats patients 13 years of age and older? This age group is severely underserved in the mental health community, and our goal is to provide real time mental health care for all. Online appointments available now for adolescents in need! Serving Ohio through the convenience of online appointments and a growing network of locations.
An RN for over 25 years, I have successfully completed intensive training through Behavioral Tech in DBTI am passionate about helping individuals, their families and supports using the evidence based principles and skills of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My enthusiasm for my work comes from seeing my clients experience relief from emotional suffering while they build mastery in making and keeping relationships, thrive in daily living, and build their lives in such a way as to make them worth embracing every day. In DBT we call this, "Having a Life Worth Living."
An RN for over 25 years, I have successfully completed intensive training through Behavioral Tech in DBTI am passionate about helping individuals, their families and supports using the evidence based principles and skills of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My enthusiasm for my work comes from seeing my clients experience relief from emotional suffering while they build mastery in making and keeping relationships, thrive in daily living, and build their lives in such a way as to make them worth embracing every day. In DBT we call this, "Having a Life Worth Living."
![Photo of Ivana Balic - Keystone Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a3144b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
![Photo of Taylor Buck, MS, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf7a809a-418f-4703-a413-ac15ca062b58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Buck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Delaware, OH 43015 (Online Only)
As a dedicated PMHNP, I offer a holistic and evidence-based approach to patient care, for persons seeking help with mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Recognizing the complexity of mental health, I emphasize understanding each individual's unique needs and preferences to develop personalized treatment plans. My treatment style includes open communication and teamwork, where patients are active participants in their healing journey. Together, we navigate through challenges, explore therapeutic interventions, and optimize medication regimens to achieve sustainable improvement in mental health.
As a dedicated PMHNP, I offer a holistic and evidence-based approach to patient care, for persons seeking help with mood disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Recognizing the complexity of mental health, I emphasize understanding each individual's unique needs and preferences to develop personalized treatment plans. My treatment style includes open communication and teamwork, where patients are active participants in their healing journey. Together, we navigate through challenges, explore therapeutic interventions, and optimize medication regimens to achieve sustainable improvement in mental health.
See more therapy options for Delaware County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Delaware County, OH
30+
Average cost per session
$195
Psychiatrists in Delaware County, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
87% | Trauma and PTSD |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
68% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Delaware County, OH see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Delaware County?
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.