Psychiatrists in Harrison, OH
I am a nurse practitioner certified in psychiatric mental health. I pride my work on providing compassionate client-centered care. With a background in mental health, I know that there is not a "one size fits all" approach when it comes to an effective individualized client treatment plan. My goal is to create a safe and trusting relationship where we can work together as a team to guide you to live the life you desire.
I am a nurse practitioner certified in psychiatric mental health. I pride my work on providing compassionate client-centered care. With a background in mental health, I know that there is not a "one size fits all" approach when it comes to an effective individualized client treatment plan. My goal is to create a safe and trusting relationship where we can work together as a team to guide you to live the life you desire.
Kristi Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, OH 45030
Having an serious mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.
Having an serious mental illness can make it a struggle to work, keep up with school, stick to a regular schedule, have healthy relationships, socialize, maintain hygiene, and more. However, with early and consistent treatment—often a combination of medication and psychotherapy—it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. At FlipSide Psychiatric Services we provide both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, to help people with SMIs feel better and pursue their goals.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Angela Marie Strotman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Green Township, OH 45247
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone’s path to wellness can look much different. I view each person as an individual and create a plan that is unique to you and your struggles. I believe that anyone who takes the path to wellness deserves to have a voice and to be treated with respect and empowerment. I treat patients of all ages from 5+. I enjoy working with both children and adults. I am currently pursuing specialty certification in Perinatal Mental Health to treat women both during and after their pregnancy. I have also been certified in pediatrics and critical care as an RN. I strive to help patient's with their overall health.
Everyone’s path to wellness can look much different. I view each person as an individual and create a plan that is unique to you and your struggles. I believe that anyone who takes the path to wellness deserves to have a voice and to be treated with respect and empowerment. I treat patients of all ages from 5+. I enjoy working with both children and adults. I am currently pursuing specialty certification in Perinatal Mental Health to treat women both during and after their pregnancy. I have also been certified in pediatrics and critical care as an RN. I strive to help patient's with their overall health.
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 8 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve full potential of mental Illness or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
Immediate openings both virtual and in person with over 8 years of experience working with children, teens and adults. We provide medication management for Mental Health and Substance Use. We can help you or your loved one achieve full potential of mental Illness or become free of addiction. Please feel free to share what you are going through. In certain situations, you may think of an Urgent Care location for physical ailments such as a severe asthma or allergies. However, this clinic is specifically designed for behavioral issues such as panic attacks, severe depressions or substance use crisis.
Krishawnda J Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45247 (Online Only)
Krishawnda’s aim is to help adults and children develop tools and skills that create a mental foundation that is more able to withstand the twists and turns that life may bring. This can be achieved through therapy, exercise, changes in diet, and/or medication. Change does not happen overnight and Krishawnda desires to help you through your healing journey, no matter the length of the journey.
Krishawnda’s aim is to help adults and children develop tools and skills that create a mental foundation that is more able to withstand the twists and turns that life may bring. This can be achieved through therapy, exercise, changes in diet, and/or medication. Change does not happen overnight and Krishawnda desires to help you through your healing journey, no matter the length of the journey.
Also, I am able to schedule out for follow-ups and see individuals as soon as 7-14 days (not a long wait at all). If urgent, please go to the nearest Emergency Room or call 911. If there are billing questions or concerns, reach out to Support during normal business hours, weekdays. If you need a follow-up, provide me with days of availability and blocks of time and we can coordinate an appointment. Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD. I also consider treating select ADHD
Also, I am able to schedule out for follow-ups and see individuals as soon as 7-14 days (not a long wait at all). If urgent, please go to the nearest Emergency Room or call 911. If there are billing questions or concerns, reach out to Support during normal business hours, weekdays. If you need a follow-up, provide me with days of availability and blocks of time and we can coordinate an appointment. Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD. I also consider treating select ADHD
Valerie Bath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleves, OH 45002
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of mental health? At FlipSide Psychiatric Services, we're here to gently guide you toward a balanced and fulfilling life. As a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe in nurturing the whole person—not just addressing symptoms. With extensive experience in anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders, I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, mind-body wellness approach. Each treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
Online Psychiatrists
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
I have a private practice in adult psychiatry offering consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy. I enjoy working in collaboration with other psychotherapists to address their clients' medical needs. Over thirty years clinical experience treating diverse mental health problems- including mood, anxiety and trauma related disorders.
I have a private practice in adult psychiatry offering consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy. I enjoy working in collaboration with other psychotherapists to address their clients' medical needs. Over thirty years clinical experience treating diverse mental health problems- including mood, anxiety and trauma related disorders.
LeeSide Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040 (Online Only)
Dr. Schauseil has a dual master’s degree in counseling education and nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Her doctorate project was on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and she has a passion for working with people of all ages struggling with symptoms related to ADHD and other mental health issues. She is dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in our Mason office and through virtual visits.
Dr. Schauseil has a dual master’s degree in counseling education and nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Her doctorate project was on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and she has a passion for working with people of all ages struggling with symptoms related to ADHD and other mental health issues. She is dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in our Mason office and through virtual visits.
Hello, I know how hard it can be living with mental illness. I am here to help guide you through the ups and downs and to ultimately find a treatment that will allow you to live with much fewer symptoms. If you can't sleep because your mind is racing, if you feel too depressed to get out of bed, if you just don't get any joy out of life anymore, if you experience debilitating panic attacks, and get more irritable at times, whatever issues you might have. We will work on them together. I want you to enjoy your life and live your passions. Life is too short to settle for less.
Hello, I know how hard it can be living with mental illness. I am here to help guide you through the ups and downs and to ultimately find a treatment that will allow you to live with much fewer symptoms. If you can't sleep because your mind is racing, if you feel too depressed to get out of bed, if you just don't get any joy out of life anymore, if you experience debilitating panic attacks, and get more irritable at times, whatever issues you might have. We will work on them together. I want you to enjoy your life and live your passions. Life is too short to settle for less.
Dr. Richard Sanders was born in Akron Ohio. He has lived in Ohio for most of his life. He has a BS in psychobiology from Centre College of Kentucky, an MS in biology from Akron University, and an MD from Wright State University. He completed residency in general psychiatry at University of Pittsburgh / Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic in 1992. He has worked with active-duty military in the US Air Force, with military veterans in the VA, and with civilians in several settings. He has been active in research and teaching throughout his career.
Dr. Richard Sanders was born in Akron Ohio. He has lived in Ohio for most of his life. He has a BS in psychobiology from Centre College of Kentucky, an MS in biology from Akron University, and an MD from Wright State University. He completed residency in general psychiatry at University of Pittsburgh / Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic in 1992. He has worked with active-duty military in the US Air Force, with military veterans in the VA, and with civilians in several settings. He has been active in research and teaching throughout his career.
Katherine G Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beavercreek, OH 45432
I graduated with a master's degree from NKU and discovered my passion for mental healthcare while working in an emergency level I trauma center. Providing care to patients experiencing mental health crises in a psychiatric emergency department fueled my commitment to advocacy in this field. My hobbies include reading, crocheting, baking, and spending time with family and friends. I am dedicated to addressing the unique needs of individuals with empathy, ensuring they receive the support necessary to reach their goals and support their overall well-being. My favorite quote, "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t".
I graduated with a master's degree from NKU and discovered my passion for mental healthcare while working in an emergency level I trauma center. Providing care to patients experiencing mental health crises in a psychiatric emergency department fueled my commitment to advocacy in this field. My hobbies include reading, crocheting, baking, and spending time with family and friends. I am dedicated to addressing the unique needs of individuals with empathy, ensuring they receive the support necessary to reach their goals and support their overall well-being. My favorite quote, "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t".
Michelle Kotte is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Michelle has 4 years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Michelle worked for several years on an inpatient psychiatry unit. Michelle earned her doctorate in nursing from Duke University. She has two master's degrees in nursing from Capital University and The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in education from Ohio University and one in nursing from Capital University.
Michelle Kotte is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Michelle has 4 years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Michelle worked for several years on an inpatient psychiatry unit. Michelle earned her doctorate in nursing from Duke University. She has two master's degrees in nursing from Capital University and The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in education from Ohio University and one in nursing from Capital University.
OwlBridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middletown, OH 45005
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
Nyla Bintu Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
Sirona Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, NCMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight
Marquetta D Colbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
I am triple board-certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, and Internal Medicine, having trained at West Virginia University and Indiana University-Purdue University. Over the past 13 years, I have worked in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, and residential facilities, serving diverse patient populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. I am dedicated to supporting my clients throughout their healing journeys and helping them improve their lives.
I am triple board-certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, and Internal Medicine, having trained at West Virginia University and Indiana University-Purdue University. Over the past 13 years, I have worked in various settings, including clinics, hospitals, and residential facilities, serving diverse patient populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. I am dedicated to supporting my clients throughout their healing journeys and helping them improve their lives.
Ingenious Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
See more therapy options for Harrison
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Harrison, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Harrison, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Substance Use |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Anthem |
How Psychiatrists in Harrison, OH see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Harrison?
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.