Psychiatrists in Huber Heights, OH
![Photo of Tyneah Morris, MSN, APRN, CNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d87b4038-f8c0-4365-b2bc-9caedc8a350e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tyneah Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huber Heights, OH 45424
"There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." That is my mission statement and goal for all to understand that come in for help. Mental health is an important medical specialty, but is often overlooked. As a board- certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am trained to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of patients—such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or substance abuse disorders. My patients receive patient centered care with ongoing treatment plans that are adjusted and specifically customized according to the need.
"There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." That is my mission statement and goal for all to understand that come in for help. Mental health is an important medical specialty, but is often overlooked. As a board- certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am trained to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of patients—such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or substance abuse disorders. My patients receive patient centered care with ongoing treatment plans that are adjusted and specifically customized according to the need.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Angela Ohene - Hope Providers Mental Health Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d898bef3-2095-4ef0-98a3-eb5c51c661a8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Providers Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45402
Angela Ohene is a dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in mental health and family practice. I see patient via Telehealth and in person for medication management. I have been a nurse for almost 6y years and a nurse practitioner for 2 years. Our practice is always accepting new patients!
Angela Ohene is a dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in mental health and family practice. I see patient via Telehealth and in person for medication management. I have been a nurse for almost 6y years and a nurse practitioner for 2 years. Our practice is always accepting new patients!
![Photo of Marquetta D Colbert, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d066f777-2043-42ab-8e88-4c79ead1ccce/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Neil Tournoux, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ada33bec-0f84-4dab-9eb3-42f0863e240a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neil Tournoux
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45448 (Online Only)
There is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think..." I became a nurse practitioner while working inpatient as a psychiatric nurse for 5 years. I am proud of my profession in nursing, as I believe that nurse practitioners bring a unique perspective to this field. Being fully present, and actively listening to understand what a patient is trying to convey is invaluable. My goal is to allow you to feel heard.
There is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think..." I became a nurse practitioner while working inpatient as a psychiatric nurse for 5 years. I am proud of my profession in nursing, as I believe that nurse practitioners bring a unique perspective to this field. Being fully present, and actively listening to understand what a patient is trying to convey is invaluable. My goal is to allow you to feel heard.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fb877fc-0651-4386-b5f2-a5a2665c6fb8/1/320x400.jpeg)
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you would like to set up an appointment.
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you would like to set up an appointment.
![Photo of Emilie Breeding - WoodStream Wellness , PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ad9b983-e988-4a2e-9750-ac4ed999077f/2/320x400.jpeg)
WoodStream Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beavercreek, OH 45432
Compassion. Connection. Collaboration. Mental Health Support Serving the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. Our WSW Team includes board certified specialists committed to treating, inspiring, empowering, nurturing, and supporting the human spirit. Our office is proud to offer both prescribers for medication management and therapists for psychotherapy. At WSW, we are devoted to not only upholding, but surpassing standards of mental health care and our clients’ expectations. We serve the Southwest Ohio Area with honor.
Compassion. Connection. Collaboration. Mental Health Support Serving the Cincinnati and Dayton areas. Our WSW Team includes board certified specialists committed to treating, inspiring, empowering, nurturing, and supporting the human spirit. Our office is proud to offer both prescribers for medication management and therapists for psychotherapy. At WSW, we are devoted to not only upholding, but surpassing standards of mental health care and our clients’ expectations. We serve the Southwest Ohio Area with honor.
![Photo of Emily Toal - BE Mental Health, LLC, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e73235e4-7d19-4511-a603-631ab44fc03c/1/320x400.jpeg)
BE Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
I am a Primary-Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I treat all psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My practice has a specialized focus on mothers experiencing antepartum and postpartum mood disorders or bonding issues with their infants. Additionally, I have a passion to provide resources and mental health treatment to children and families who have indivduals with developmental delays. This includes assessment, diagnoses, treatment, appropriate referrals, and case management for the family. However, I treat all psychiatric disorders and people of all ages!
I am a Primary-Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I treat all psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My practice has a specialized focus on mothers experiencing antepartum and postpartum mood disorders or bonding issues with their infants. Additionally, I have a passion to provide resources and mental health treatment to children and families who have indivduals with developmental delays. This includes assessment, diagnoses, treatment, appropriate referrals, and case management for the family. However, I treat all psychiatric disorders and people of all ages!
![Photo of Michelle LeMaster, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f10baf3-8ba4-4fdc-b1d9-1d7e4e605f01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle LeMaster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beavercreek, OH 45432
I work primarily with medication management but listening is my superpower. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to express yourself. I believe that the foundation of mental health care lies in truly hearing and understanding the unique experiences of each person I work with.
I work primarily with medication management but listening is my superpower. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to express yourself. I believe that the foundation of mental health care lies in truly hearing and understanding the unique experiences of each person I work with.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e3d4692-d9f2-45eb-a1ab-228393a027de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Sylvie Sibomana, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b7bde77-e6a2-4d1c-bca8-1c7c8e01e1fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sylvie Sibomana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45424 (Online Only)
I am a compassionate provider who focuses on a holistic, individualized approach to health by devoting time to your care. I am dual-certified and offer dual diagnoses of addiction and underlying mental health issues. My goal is to build healthy communities and reduce the stigma associated with addiction, psychiatry, and weight. I offer flexible hours early in the morning, evenings, or weekends, no waiting time, telehealth, and in-person visits.
I am a compassionate provider who focuses on a holistic, individualized approach to health by devoting time to your care. I am dual-certified and offer dual diagnoses of addiction and underlying mental health issues. My goal is to build healthy communities and reduce the stigma associated with addiction, psychiatry, and weight. I offer flexible hours early in the morning, evenings, or weekends, no waiting time, telehealth, and in-person visits.
![Photo of Mark Roberts, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a389d59-64a1-4b1f-88f3-ba604ed6f6f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am here to assist anyone who is seeking help with stress, emotions, mood or any other mental health issues that are having an impact on their daily lives. My focus is to help you live the life you strive for and achieve any task you desire without allowing roadblocks to become barriers. Medication assistance in conjunction with therapy can help to make these goals achievable.
I am here to assist anyone who is seeking help with stress, emotions, mood or any other mental health issues that are having an impact on their daily lives. My focus is to help you live the life you strive for and achieve any task you desire without allowing roadblocks to become barriers. Medication assistance in conjunction with therapy can help to make these goals achievable.
![Photo of Princess Gaitawe-Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d4e617b-4fba-4712-8885-0384c905bf72/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have been practicing for over 10 years with experience with care of patients in a hospital, residential, and clinic settings. I value building relationships with both the child and their provider(s) to provide appropriate mental health care. I have treated various diagnoses and mental health concerns including: OCD, depression, ADHD, Autism related behavioral difficulties, young adults transitioning into adulthood, anxiety, and disruptive mood disorders. My approach to is address problems from a comprehensive perspective as their may be various contributing factors.
I am a board certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have been practicing for over 10 years with experience with care of patients in a hospital, residential, and clinic settings. I value building relationships with both the child and their provider(s) to provide appropriate mental health care. I have treated various diagnoses and mental health concerns including: OCD, depression, ADHD, Autism related behavioral difficulties, young adults transitioning into adulthood, anxiety, and disruptive mood disorders. My approach to is address problems from a comprehensive perspective as their may be various contributing factors.
Safe Place Therapeutics LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45423
Are you having Mental Health issues including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, sleep issues? Are your struggling with Substance Abuse issues including by not limited Opioid use Disorder, Alcoholism. If so at Safe Place Therapeutics a Brick and Mortar Clinic we use a holistic approached as as foundation for our treatment modality.
Are you having Mental Health issues including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, sleep issues? Are your struggling with Substance Abuse issues including by not limited Opioid use Disorder, Alcoholism. If so at Safe Place Therapeutics a Brick and Mortar Clinic we use a holistic approached as as foundation for our treatment modality.
![Photo of Rhea J Jeffers, APRN, CNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ec3b183-ee3b-475d-b0c2-853017750ff7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rhea J Jeffers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
I am here to help any patient seeking help with their emotions, stress, mood or any mental health problems they may be experiencing. My goal is to help anyone in need with mental health issues to live the best life possible. I encourage therapy along with medication management to improve overall mental health outcomes. I do not prescribe stimulants but I do use non-stimulants to treat ADHD, and ADD. I accept all insurances, Medicaid and Medicare.
I am here to help any patient seeking help with their emotions, stress, mood or any mental health problems they may be experiencing. My goal is to help anyone in need with mental health issues to live the best life possible. I encourage therapy along with medication management to improve overall mental health outcomes. I do not prescribe stimulants but I do use non-stimulants to treat ADHD, and ADD. I accept all insurances, Medicaid and Medicare.
![Photo of Denise Dews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee8063aa-15d9-4837-a37c-5d611ccd3d3d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
![Photo of Darshan Singh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf291e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Singh has multiple years of practice experience and specializes in child psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Singh is board certified and treats a wide range of mental health disorders. Based on years of experience he helps decrease and/or alleviate symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, compulsive disorders, etc.
Dr. Singh has multiple years of practice experience and specializes in child psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Singh is board certified and treats a wide range of mental health disorders. Based on years of experience he helps decrease and/or alleviate symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, compulsive disorders, etc.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78c73de2-6e98-48a0-80c4-d57845d25066/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Molly J Hall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44f6f5b5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Katherine G Smith, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e7cf111-405f-4c9b-ab5a-f6ee35212a3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
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".
![Photo of Xoliswa Cross, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ff21ad5-a070-4604-bc75-85112a6c97b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Xoliswa Cross is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She earned an associate degree in nursing from Kettering College of Medical Arts, a Bachelor of Nursing and master's degree in science with a Psychiatric Mental Health specialization from Wright State University. She has professional affiliations with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Psychological Association, International Society of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses and the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses.
Xoliswa Cross is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She earned an associate degree in nursing from Kettering College of Medical Arts, a Bachelor of Nursing and master's degree in science with a Psychiatric Mental Health specialization from Wright State University. She has professional affiliations with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Psychological Association, International Society of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses and the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses.
See more therapy options for Huber Heights
Nearby Searches for Huber Heights
- Beavercreek
- Centerville
- Dayton
- Englewood
- Enon
- Fairborn
- Kettering
- Medway
- Miamisburg
- New Carlisle
- Springfield
- Troy
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Huber Heights, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Huber Heights, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Huber Heights, 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 Huber Heights?
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.