Psychiatrists in Indian Hill, OH

Photo of Elizabeth Shelley, MD, Psychiatrist
Elizabeth Shelley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Indian Hill, OH 45243
My name is Dr. Elizabeth Shelley, I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I am dedicated to providing expert and compassionate medication management and therapy to individuals starting from the age of 8 through adulthood. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish. For more information, visit my website at elizabethshelleymd.com.
My name is Dr. Elizabeth Shelley, I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I am dedicated to providing expert and compassionate medication management and therapy to individuals starting from the age of 8 through adulthood. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish. For more information, visit my website at elizabethshelleymd.com.
(440) 970-0921 View (440) 970-0921

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Julia Shakh - Infinity Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Infinity Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Ash, OH 45242
Currently serving individuals in NY, OH, WI via Telepsychiatric services. We believe the key to wellness is partnering with a physician who can ally themselves with the patient in order to empower and guide the individual to create positive change in their life. We strive to eliminate the obstacles many individuals face when making the decision to seek psychiatric care. Using videoconferencing you can be seen in your own home, ensuring privacy and expanding accessibility. We cater to busy professionals and offer non-traditional and expanded office hours for your convenience. To get started, visit: InfinityPsychiatry.org
Currently serving individuals in NY, OH, WI via Telepsychiatric services. We believe the key to wellness is partnering with a physician who can ally themselves with the patient in order to empower and guide the individual to create positive change in their life. We strive to eliminate the obstacles many individuals face when making the decision to seek psychiatric care. Using videoconferencing you can be seen in your own home, ensuring privacy and expanding accessibility. We cater to busy professionals and offer non-traditional and expanded office hours for your convenience. To get started, visit: InfinityPsychiatry.org
(513) 817-0054 View (513) 817-0054
Photo of Nicole Sbrocchi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Sbrocchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Mental health is as important as physical health because it affects our thoughts, feelings, and actions. When our mental health is affected, it can influence how we see ourselves, relate to others, and make decisions.
Mental health is as important as physical health because it affects our thoughts, feelings, and actions. When our mental health is affected, it can influence how we see ourselves, relate to others, and make decisions.
(567) 409-2316 View (567) 409-2316
Photo of Yvette Dorsey-Benson, PMHNP, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yvette Dorsey-Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Do you feel trapped or stuck in emotional situations that leave you feeling like there’s no way out? “Suffering in silence” is not an option and it’s ok to ask for help. Let me help you equip yourself with the necessary tools to become your best version of self. Yvette Dorsey-Benson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals and families that struggle to manage stress, issues surrounding mental health and the day-to-day challenges that life can bring. “Understanding that we all experience dissatisfaction in life sometime or another is real. It’s ok not to be ok”.
Do you feel trapped or stuck in emotional situations that leave you feeling like there’s no way out? “Suffering in silence” is not an option and it’s ok to ask for help. Let me help you equip yourself with the necessary tools to become your best version of self. Yvette Dorsey-Benson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals and families that struggle to manage stress, issues surrounding mental health and the day-to-day challenges that life can bring. “Understanding that we all experience dissatisfaction in life sometime or another is real. It’s ok not to be ok”.
(937) 230-8235 View (937) 230-8235
Photo of Emily Freimuth, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Freimuth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Emily Freimuth, NP, is a compassionate and experienced certified nurse practitioner practicing at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Ohio. Specializing in both primary care and psychiatry, Emily offers confidential and comprehensive care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Her approach focuses on providing empathetic and professional support, ensuring a safe space for patients to address their mental health concerns and work towards their personal goals. Emily's expertise encompasses a wide range of specialties, including ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Emily Freimuth, NP, is a compassionate and experienced certified nurse practitioner practicing at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Ohio. Specializing in both primary care and psychiatry, Emily offers confidential and comprehensive care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Her approach focuses on providing empathetic and professional support, ensuring a safe space for patients to address their mental health concerns and work towards their personal goals. Emily's expertise encompasses a wide range of specialties, including ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
(513) 995-6535 View (513) 995-6535
Photo of Denise Re, MSN,  NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denise Re
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Denise Re is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree in advanced practice nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University as a member of The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wright State University. She has practiced nursing since 2005 in inpatient and outpatient settings including medical, psychiatric, and addiction treatment. She believes in working together with patients to help them obtain their optimal level of mental well-being.
Denise Re is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree in advanced practice nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University as a member of The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wright State University. She has practiced nursing since 2005 in inpatient and outpatient settings including medical, psychiatric, and addiction treatment. She believes in working together with patients to help them obtain their optimal level of mental well-being.
(513) 790-6624 View (513) 790-6624
Photo of Arnold G Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist
Arnold G Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I've been in private practice in OH and KY for many years. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of ADHD, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression. My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them and their families. I am proud to treat my patients who started as patients when they were children, who now also bring their children to me for treatment.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I've been in private practice in OH and KY for many years. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of ADHD, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression. My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them and their families. I am proud to treat my patients who started as patients when they were children, who now also bring their children to me for treatment.
(513) 450-8296 View (513) 450-8296
Photo of Faith Samaan (Mitchell), APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Faith Samaan (Mitchell)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Not accepting new clients
My work and life philosophy is based on the foundation of building strong and trusting relationships. My goal is to provide you with a supportive environment that helps you achieve your goals. I believe a holistic approach to treatment is the most effective and I consider any underlying factors that can contribute to mental health issues. Integrating therapy, nutritional changes, lifestyle changes, and collaborating with your medical provider are some of the holistic approaches that are often beneficial. I will ensure that you have shared decision-making in your treatment.
My work and life philosophy is based on the foundation of building strong and trusting relationships. My goal is to provide you with a supportive environment that helps you achieve your goals. I believe a holistic approach to treatment is the most effective and I consider any underlying factors that can contribute to mental health issues. Integrating therapy, nutritional changes, lifestyle changes, and collaborating with your medical provider are some of the holistic approaches that are often beneficial. I will ensure that you have shared decision-making in your treatment.
(513) 613-3230 View (513) 613-3230
Photo of Carol Ann Parker, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carol Ann Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236  (Online Only)
I firmly believe that the relationship between the healthcare provider and the patient forms the foundation for achieving successful outcomes. In our collaboration, we will thoroughly address your concerns, needs, and goals. My role is to advocate for you as the patient, empowering you to actively participate in your care. Together, we will engage in the planning process to ensure that we achieve the desired outcome. To provide you with the utmost convenience, I utilize telepsychiatry to deliver care directly to your home. Providing care for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
I firmly believe that the relationship between the healthcare provider and the patient forms the foundation for achieving successful outcomes. In our collaboration, we will thoroughly address your concerns, needs, and goals. My role is to advocate for you as the patient, empowering you to actively participate in your care. Together, we will engage in the planning process to ensure that we achieve the desired outcome. To provide you with the utmost convenience, I utilize telepsychiatry to deliver care directly to your home. Providing care for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
(513) 966-5938 View (513) 966-5938
Photo of Magdalene Edo - Calvary Family and Mental health Services, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Calvary Family and Mental health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Blue Ash, OH 45236
Hello, I’m Maggie. A seasoned Psychiatry mental health Nurse Practitioner. Feel free to reach out to me if you or your loved ones are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, sleeping disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, addiction, or low self-esteem. I Possess extensive knowledge about mental health and the challenges it poses to our daily lives.
Hello, I’m Maggie. A seasoned Psychiatry mental health Nurse Practitioner. Feel free to reach out to me if you or your loved ones are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, sleeping disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, addiction, or low self-esteem. I Possess extensive knowledge about mental health and the challenges it poses to our daily lives.
(614) 414-3620 View (614) 414-3620
Photo of Brittany Hooten, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Hooten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Blue Ash, OH 45236
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.
(513) 654-1389 View (513) 654-1389
Photo of Jeremy Carpenter, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeremy Carpenter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Dr. Carpenter has more than 12 years of experience in psychiatry with specialty in child and adolescent psychiatry. He earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at George Washington University in Washington, D. C. where he completed additional training in Health Policy and Advocacy. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus. In 2017, he was a finalist for the Cincinnati Business Courier's Healthcare Hero for improving the quality of Cincinnati healthcare through his patient care mission.
Dr. Carpenter has more than 12 years of experience in psychiatry with specialty in child and adolescent psychiatry. He earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at George Washington University in Washington, D. C. where he completed additional training in Health Policy and Advocacy. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus. In 2017, he was a finalist for the Cincinnati Business Courier's Healthcare Hero for improving the quality of Cincinnati healthcare through his patient care mission.
(513) 654-6256 View (513) 654-6256
Photo of Sharon Arabi, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sharon Arabi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Sharon Arabi is dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families. With a focus on relational and attachment work, she specializes in treating a range of mental health concerns across different age groups. Sharon’s expertise lies in working with children, teens, and young adults, offering support for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, school avoidance, grief, and childhood behavior issues. She is also passionate about addressing women’s mental health issues, including postpartum depression/anxiety and general women’s issues.
Sharon Arabi is dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families. With a focus on relational and attachment work, she specializes in treating a range of mental health concerns across different age groups. Sharon’s expertise lies in working with children, teens, and young adults, offering support for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, school avoidance, grief, and childhood behavior issues. She is also passionate about addressing women’s mental health issues, including postpartum depression/anxiety and general women’s issues.
(513) 450-7538 View (513) 450-7538
Photo of Paul Myers, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paul Myers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Paul M Myers holds a BS in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati, a MSN from Xavier University and an ANP from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He was certified as an ANCC Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing in 2012. He has practiced as a psychiatric nurse clinician and manager in psychiatric hospitals and correctional facilities. He has been working in a research facility and providing outpatient care specializing in Schizophrenia, Bipolar and ADHD. He has been an educator in undergraduate psychiatric nursing programs and as a psychotherapist. He loves to travel with his husband and family/friends.
Paul M Myers holds a BS in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati, a MSN from Xavier University and an ANP from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He was certified as an ANCC Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing in 2012. He has practiced as a psychiatric nurse clinician and manager in psychiatric hospitals and correctional facilities. He has been working in a research facility and providing outpatient care specializing in Schizophrenia, Bipolar and ADHD. He has been an educator in undergraduate psychiatric nursing programs and as a psychotherapist. He loves to travel with his husband and family/friends.
(513) 643-2216 View (513) 643-2216
Photo of Danielle Smith, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Danielle Smith is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of healthcare experience, including 5 years in pediatric psychiatry. She connects with clients in a holistic manner and with compassion. She is passionate about providing patients with an empowering and supportive safe space to explore the options available for treatment. Danielle manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and insomnia. She currently serves children, adolescents, and adults.
Danielle Smith is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of healthcare experience, including 5 years in pediatric psychiatry. She connects with clients in a holistic manner and with compassion. She is passionate about providing patients with an empowering and supportive safe space to explore the options available for treatment. Danielle manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and insomnia. She currently serves children, adolescents, and adults.
(937) 932-2721 View (937) 932-2721
Photo of Jessie Maumburudze, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessie Maumburudze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236  (Online Only)
Hi! I am dual Board certified in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master's in Nursing degree and post graduate degree at Ursuline College, Ohio.
Hi! I am dual Board certified in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master's in Nursing degree and post graduate degree at Ursuline College, Ohio.
(216) 999-6625 View (216) 999-6625
Photo of Deborah Amann, MD, Psychiatrist
Deborah Amann
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Accepting new patients for telemedicine appointments. I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist in private practice. I am a native of Cincinnati who completed Psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati and fellowship at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. My areas of clinical interest are anxiety, depression, ADHD and relationship struggles.
Accepting new patients for telemedicine appointments. I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist in private practice. I am a native of Cincinnati who completed Psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati and fellowship at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. My areas of clinical interest are anxiety, depression, ADHD and relationship struggles.
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Photo of Greg Douglas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Greg Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45243  (Online Only)
I provide professional mental health services regardless of where you may be in your journey. Whether you are seeking treatment for the first time or if you are unsatisfied with your current course of treatment, I am here to help guide you on your road to becoming the best version of yourself through your mental wellness. I utilize a personal and integrative approach to customize a treatment plan for a well-balanced mental and physical life. My philosophy is to address the root cause of mental health conditions, rather than treating surface symptoms only.
I provide professional mental health services regardless of where you may be in your journey. Whether you are seeking treatment for the first time or if you are unsatisfied with your current course of treatment, I am here to help guide you on your road to becoming the best version of yourself through your mental wellness. I utilize a personal and integrative approach to customize a treatment plan for a well-balanced mental and physical life. My philosophy is to address the root cause of mental health conditions, rather than treating surface symptoms only.
(513) 327-5419 View (513) 327-5419
Photo of Dale LaChance, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dale LaChance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236  (Online Only)
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
(614) 683-2088 View (614) 683-2088
Babu Gupta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45243
I have developed a reputation for strong diagnostic skills and thorough understanding of treatment options, based on evidence and experience. I genuinely connect with my patients and try to earn their trust. I feel comfortable with all adults and have extra interest in senior care, providing services in office and long term care facilities.. But I love taking care of younger adults as well, late high school and beyond. I have been frequently recognized by my physician peers as a "Top Doctor" in the Cincinnati area through the years.
I have developed a reputation for strong diagnostic skills and thorough understanding of treatment options, based on evidence and experience. I genuinely connect with my patients and try to earn their trust. I feel comfortable with all adults and have extra interest in senior care, providing services in office and long term care facilities.. But I love taking care of younger adults as well, late high school and beyond. I have been frequently recognized by my physician peers as a "Top Doctor" in the Cincinnati area through the years.
(513) 796-5961 View (513) 796-5961

See more therapy options for Indian Hill

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Indian Hill, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Indian Hill, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Other

Average years in practice

5 Years

How Psychiatrists in Indian Hill, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Indian Hill?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.