Psychiatrists in Jackson County, OH
![Photo of Janey Shipman, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bf8a77f-c005-4e8d-8538-e8b118b2f71d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janey Shipman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Hill, OH 45656
Hello! I am a certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner trained to diagnose mental health disorders and treat those who struggle with them. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health concerns and I especially enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with feeling out of place or misunderstood.
Hello! I am a certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner trained to diagnose mental health disorders and treat those who struggle with them. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health concerns and I especially enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with feeling out of place or misunderstood.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Thomas Crane, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/192ef659-cea2-411f-bf85-9bb73ce8157a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Thomas Crane is a board-certified psychiatrist who practices general adult psychiatry, with a special interest in managing depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. He attended Calvin College for his Bachelor’s Degree and Michigan State University College of Human Medicine for his Medical Degree. He then completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Ohio State University. After spending six months serving the prison population, he is back to doing what he finds most rewarding, which is one-on-one outpatient psychiatry.
Dr. Thomas Crane is a board-certified psychiatrist who practices general adult psychiatry, with a special interest in managing depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. He attended Calvin College for his Bachelor’s Degree and Michigan State University College of Human Medicine for his Medical Degree. He then completed his Residency in Psychiatry at Ohio State University. After spending six months serving the prison population, he is back to doing what he finds most rewarding, which is one-on-one outpatient psychiatry.
![Photo of Annamaria Pagani, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63c3dac6-99d5-4fd9-bef0-7d9533c43638/3/320x400.jpeg)
Annamaria Pagani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219 (Online Only)
My name is Annamaria and I am a PMHNP currently accepting patients ages 15 and up. My role involves addressing symptoms and challenges that patients face with medication, but also identifying other factors that could contribute to their mental health. This includes medical conditions, lifestyle factors, coping skills, and more. I always encourage my patients to participate in therapy. I offer genetic testing to help narrow down psychotropic medication options and to help patients understand why previous medications may not have worked. I empower my patients to actively participate in making decisions in their own care.
My name is Annamaria and I am a PMHNP currently accepting patients ages 15 and up. My role involves addressing symptoms and challenges that patients face with medication, but also identifying other factors that could contribute to their mental health. This includes medical conditions, lifestyle factors, coping skills, and more. I always encourage my patients to participate in therapy. I offer genetic testing to help narrow down psychotropic medication options and to help patients understand why previous medications may not have worked. I empower my patients to actively participate in making decisions in their own care.
![Photo of Erin Thompson, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f198c0a-66a0-4e32-bf03-fbb8f7d637af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43210 (Online Only)
I started out in Family practice as an APRN for almost 5 years and fell in love with mental health. I have been a certified PMHNP since 2020. I treat the lifespan of ages 5 and up.
I started out in Family practice as an APRN for almost 5 years and fell in love with mental health. I have been a certified PMHNP since 2020. I treat the lifespan of ages 5 and up.
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac1f03bf-598c-470b-9927-f5d5e7c9912e/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Melinda Kaye Bates, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e4080d7-2780-4dc4-8ea6-f1967b89ec37/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Kaye Bates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Albany, OH 43054
The mind and the body are both important parts of your overall well-being. We will work together to create a treatment plan that will improve your mental health and help you to feel like your best self.
The mind and the body are both important parts of your overall well-being. We will work together to create a treatment plan that will improve your mental health and help you to feel like your best self.
![Photo of Brandy Smith - Marching On Pediatric Mental Health Care, LLC, MS, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2879b9b7-d359-433d-af15-5db374ef64b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marching On Pediatric Mental Health Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
Marysville, OH 43040 (Online Only)
Providing exceptional mental health care to the pediatric population is my number one goal. Continuing to break the stigma associated with mental health, I'm a non-judgemental listening ear and strive to help children reach their true potential. Specializing in pediatric trauma, I not only can help with medication management, but also provide resources to ensure your child is receiving a well-rounded treatment approach.
Providing exceptional mental health care to the pediatric population is my number one goal. Continuing to break the stigma associated with mental health, I'm a non-judgemental listening ear and strive to help children reach their true potential. Specializing in pediatric trauma, I not only can help with medication management, but also provide resources to ensure your child is receiving a well-rounded treatment approach.
![Photo of Ashley Gould, APRN-C, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/506c7fcc-1cb7-4896-b796-f87d5aad76fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Gould
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-C, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Beavercreek, OH 45432
Ashley holds a dual board certification as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in office as well as through virtual visits. She works to form partnerships with her patients and is passionate about helping individuals and families thrive.
Ashley holds a dual board certification as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in office as well as through virtual visits. She works to form partnerships with her patients and is passionate about helping individuals and families thrive.
![Photo of Jonathan Cole - Mindfully Psychiatry & TMS Services, DO, MH-PNP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2ad5426-7e06-469d-b3d5-facf057df788/1/320x400.png)
Mindfully is the premier full-service mental health practice in OH. We offer comprehensive psychiatry services, including psychiatric medication management and cutting edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is specifically used for medication-resistant major depression and OCD, and has a 70% success rate with zero side effects. All of our services are covered by most major insurance, Medicaid and Medicare.
Mindfully is the premier full-service mental health practice in OH. We offer comprehensive psychiatry services, including psychiatric medication management and cutting edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is specifically used for medication-resistant major depression and OCD, and has a 70% success rate with zero side effects. All of our services are covered by most major insurance, Medicaid and Medicare.
![Photo of Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu - Cornerstone Integrated Healthcare of Ohio , PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41fc479c-00fd-4749-a683-9260c5301f29/1/320x400.png)
Cornerstone Integrated Healthcare of Ohio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience in mental health, addiction, and family services to diversified patient population. My mission is the desensitization of the stigma to mental health and substance abuse disorder in providing individualized holistic care. Meeting patients where they are and in upholding their dignity.
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience in mental health, addiction, and family services to diversified patient population. My mission is the desensitization of the stigma to mental health and substance abuse disorder in providing individualized holistic care. Meeting patients where they are and in upholding their dignity.
![Photo of Chris Sobecki, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db364e60-1685-4bdd-905e-3e2da29e16c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Sobecki is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been working in the behavioral and mental health field since 2019. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University and earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. He is passionate about providing comprehensive behavioral and mental health services to the pediatric, adolescent and young adult populations. He engages with patients and their families to assess and develop strategies to overcome barriers.
Chris Sobecki is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been working in the behavioral and mental health field since 2019. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University and earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University. He is passionate about providing comprehensive behavioral and mental health services to the pediatric, adolescent and young adult populations. He engages with patients and their families to assess and develop strategies to overcome barriers.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf314652-fcfd-4720-bba6-bbf2fe563330/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Dr. Cole Upton - Upton Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9800516d-37c1-4555-af41-ab4f46dddcaa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cole Upton - Upton Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
A new approach to mental health that puts your wellness first. Dr. Upton has built his practice, Upton Wellness, in way that brings distinct and specific individualized care for each client. Holistic wellness refers to an approach to health that considers the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - rather than just a specific ailment or symptom. It involves addressing underlying causes of health issues and incorporating various therapies and practices, to achieve balance and harmony. Holistic wellness emphasizes the importance of prevention and self-care, empowering individuals to take an active role in their own health.
A new approach to mental health that puts your wellness first. Dr. Upton has built his practice, Upton Wellness, in way that brings distinct and specific individualized care for each client. Holistic wellness refers to an approach to health that considers the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - rather than just a specific ailment or symptom. It involves addressing underlying causes of health issues and incorporating various therapies and practices, to achieve balance and harmony. Holistic wellness emphasizes the importance of prevention and self-care, empowering individuals to take an active role in their own health.
![Photo of Elizabeth Knicely, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b8716ae-79c6-4d3d-88b2-fe71e8f21d19/3/320x400.png)
Elizabeth Knicely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Adamsville, OH 43802 (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. My name is Liz and I have been practicing as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for several years now. I have experience working with clients from varying populations, ages, and backgrounds.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. My name is Liz and I have been practicing as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for several years now. I have experience working with clients from varying populations, ages, and backgrounds.
![Photo of Rhonda Morris, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd010263-a020-4fb5-b427-35b086de7896/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rhonda Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235 (Online Only)
Rhonda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about making mental health care accessible to anyone who needs it. Over the last 20+ years in the mental health field, she has worked with patients from across the lifespan with a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, home health and recreation-based settings. She has experience with a wide range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD and psychotic disorders.
Rhonda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about making mental health care accessible to anyone who needs it. Over the last 20+ years in the mental health field, she has worked with patients from across the lifespan with a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, home health and recreation-based settings. She has experience with a wide range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD and psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Biaunka Lee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f3cd082-5787-414e-85a7-422c96f5d27a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Biaunka Phillips is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Biaunka helps her clients by being patient centered, empathetic, attentive, and dedicated to their needs. She involves her clients, so they feel they are a part of their care. Biaunka has gained experience in critical care, medical-surgical, and long-term care throughout her nursing career. Over the last 7 years, Biaunka has worked in mental health and provided education and assisted in meeting patients' needs.
Biaunka Phillips is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Biaunka helps her clients by being patient centered, empathetic, attentive, and dedicated to their needs. She involves her clients, so they feel they are a part of their care. Biaunka has gained experience in critical care, medical-surgical, and long-term care throughout her nursing career. Over the last 7 years, Biaunka has worked in mental health and provided education and assisted in meeting patients' needs.
![Photo of Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ae8cc61-84f0-4b17-bed7-818b676e5d9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, is a highly experienced psychiatrist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Wallenbrock combines a robust educational background with extensive clinical expertise to deliver high-quality, evidence-based psychiatric care. At Holistic Wellness Solutions, she focuses on providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for children aged 12 and older, as well as adults.
Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, is a highly experienced psychiatrist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Wallenbrock combines a robust educational background with extensive clinical expertise to deliver high-quality, evidence-based psychiatric care. At Holistic Wellness Solutions, she focuses on providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for children aged 12 and older, as well as adults.
![Photo of Elana Harris - Not Alone, Inc. Opiate Recovery, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47fe3b45-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Trauma and loneliness can bring women to substance dependence. It can be a struggle to stay healthy and strong in recovery. We want to learn about your life goals and help you reach them. We can help you avoid relapse, cravings and medication side effects.
Trauma and loneliness can bring women to substance dependence. It can be a struggle to stay healthy and strong in recovery. We want to learn about your life goals and help you reach them. We can help you avoid relapse, cravings and medication side effects.
![Photo of Kelly Mcgee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7aae80e-2ca2-4685-b943-4db898976ab0/1/320x400.png)
Kelly Mcgee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Kelly and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "I am a compassionate professional with 14+ years of experience in treating anxiety, depression and ADD. I'm a mother of four adult children, with a personal experience of losing my oldest son to in a motor vehicle accident in 2017. I have three fur babies that bring much joy to the day. My hobbies include gardening, traveling, spending time with family and friends. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Kelly and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! "I am a compassionate professional with 14+ years of experience in treating anxiety, depression and ADD. I'm a mother of four adult children, with a personal experience of losing my oldest son to in a motor vehicle accident in 2017. I have three fur babies that bring much joy to the day. My hobbies include gardening, traveling, spending time with family and friends. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Sheryl List, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b65bab7-911c-48a2-9d9d-288cc3aa45a8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sheryl List
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241 (Online Only)
I am a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in the nursing field 12 years. I have worked within a variety of areas including mental health, critical care, and emergency medicine. I can assist and coordinate with therapists to achieve optimal recovery from your psychiatric symptoms.
I am a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in the nursing field 12 years. I have worked within a variety of areas including mental health, critical care, and emergency medicine. I can assist and coordinate with therapists to achieve optimal recovery from your psychiatric symptoms.
See more therapy options for Jackson County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Jackson County, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Jackson County, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Other |
100% | Autism |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Jackson County, 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 Jackson County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.