Psychiatrists in Louisville, OH
![Photo of Megan A Demos, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cdb1435-720a-456c-8846-e93fccaeac4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan A Demos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, OH 44641
My philosophy is to treat others as I would want to be treated. It is my moral obligation to provide nonjudgmental care & support as I work in collaboration with my clients. I believe the treatment of psychiatric disorders should be holistic in nature, which may include, utilizing prescription medications, psychotherapy, vitamins, & other supplements. This whole-body approach should also incorporate lifestyle changes & wellness principles, such as- dietary changes, exercise, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, and social connection. I also believe that patient education and engagement is key in the healing process.
My philosophy is to treat others as I would want to be treated. It is my moral obligation to provide nonjudgmental care & support as I work in collaboration with my clients. I believe the treatment of psychiatric disorders should be holistic in nature, which may include, utilizing prescription medications, psychotherapy, vitamins, & other supplements. This whole-body approach should also incorporate lifestyle changes & wellness principles, such as- dietary changes, exercise, sleep hygiene, mindfulness, and social connection. I also believe that patient education and engagement is key in the healing process.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jaclyn Lanham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/230e7250-ff86-49f5-ae74-9fcfe000ef18/2/320x400.png)
Also, I am able to schedule out for follow-ups and see individuals as soon as 7-14 days (not a long wait at all). If urgent, please go to the nearest Emergency Room or call 911. If there are billing questions or concerns, reach out to Support during normal business hours, weekdays. If you need a follow-up, provide me with days of availability and blocks of time and we can coordinate an appointment. Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD. I also consider treating select ADHD
Also, I am able to schedule out for follow-ups and see individuals as soon as 7-14 days (not a long wait at all). If urgent, please go to the nearest Emergency Room or call 911. If there are billing questions or concerns, reach out to Support during normal business hours, weekdays. If you need a follow-up, provide me with days of availability and blocks of time and we can coordinate an appointment. Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD. I also consider treating select ADHD
![Photo of Enestine Tasong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe0423fb-86cc-424e-aa27-2190ca1d756e/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP), psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and certified DOT provider. She has over 20 years of excellent, high-quality healthcare experience. She has worked in multiple settings, including long-term care, home care, primary care, psychiatric care clinics, insurance, urgent care, hospice, and an inpatient behavioral hospital.
Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP), psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and certified DOT provider. She has over 20 years of excellent, high-quality healthcare experience. She has worked in multiple settings, including long-term care, home care, primary care, psychiatric care clinics, insurance, urgent care, hospice, and an inpatient behavioral hospital.
![Photo of Candice Wood, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b79a273f-1135-45a5-9e12-6cb7f4e5f24e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients experiencing a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, anger, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, dementia, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) disorder, and mental health symptoms during recovery from addiction. I offer both in office and telehealth appointments.
I work with clients experiencing a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, anger, insomnia, PTSD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, dementia, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) disorder, and mental health symptoms during recovery from addiction. I offer both in office and telehealth appointments.
![Photo of Steven Aslanides, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/664c6f22-1925-4a6b-9080-206b6825a661/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steven Aslanides
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Canton, OH 44721 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Steven Aslanides, a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with my bachelors and master from Akron University and I am board certified through the ANCC.
Hello! I am Steven Aslanides, a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with my bachelors and master from Akron University and I am board certified through the ANCC.
![Photo of Terri Mcnatt, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c258f7e5-25bc-4bb0-b0b9-3af1acc9fb0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 20 years of experience in mental health care. I possess a strong background in nursing and a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients through evidence-based practice and empathetic care.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 20 years of experience in mental health care. I possess a strong background in nursing and a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients through evidence-based practice and empathetic care.
![Photo of Kathleen R Boughton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbf74ab7-e6b7-459e-8078-4988e2a4ab56/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen R Boughton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, OH 44708 (Online Only)
I work with women who are struggling to keep up with their daily life, who feel trapped in a never-ending cycle of stress and overwhelm, and who are hoping to find a way out. These women know that “there is more” but just can’t seem to pull it off. They look at other women and wonder "why everything is so easy for them – what is wrong with me that I can’t figure this out?”. These women are ready to feel better NOW. My unique approach blends medication management AND effective therapeutic techniques to women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and a sense of overwhelm. Accepting NEW patients for telemedicine appointments.
I work with women who are struggling to keep up with their daily life, who feel trapped in a never-ending cycle of stress and overwhelm, and who are hoping to find a way out. These women know that “there is more” but just can’t seem to pull it off. They look at other women and wonder "why everything is so easy for them – what is wrong with me that I can’t figure this out?”. These women are ready to feel better NOW. My unique approach blends medication management AND effective therapeutic techniques to women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and a sense of overwhelm. Accepting NEW patients for telemedicine appointments.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5433bd7-ccb9-4654-8d23-2cf7cbe4e053/1/320x400.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 Linda Kimble, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b9cd1de-fdc0-4570-b073-9067362499c6/4/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Kimble
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Canton, OH 44730 (Online Only)
As a nurse practitioner with many years experience, I strive to provide collaborative care between my client and myself. I focus on listening to my clients and providing supportive care and empathy as well as quality medication management in an effort to help them set realistic goals, understand themselves, and to reach their full mental health potential. I have been a nurse in every level from LPN to MSN to Post Master MSN. I have a very broad educational base and have had experiences in nursing education, hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics as well as several years of telehealth services.
As a nurse practitioner with many years experience, I strive to provide collaborative care between my client and myself. I focus on listening to my clients and providing supportive care and empathy as well as quality medication management in an effort to help them set realistic goals, understand themselves, and to reach their full mental health potential. I have been a nurse in every level from LPN to MSN to Post Master MSN. I have a very broad educational base and have had experiences in nursing education, hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics as well as several years of telehealth services.
![Photo of Kimberly Ann Marshall, APN-BC, PMHNP-B, C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b81f8129-afaf-4dbf-9cd8-4cf3f56ef44b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Ann Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP-B, C
Verified Verified
Canton, OH 44721 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING new patients!! We offer TELEMEDICINE appointments. Call or email to schedule your appointment. If you or a loved one are suffering from depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help, we are here for you. Our program offers a variety of services delivered with kindness and empathy.. We believe in positive behavioral health and improving your quality of life by evaluating, treating and managing a variety of mental health conditions. We offer individual counseling along with medication assisted treatment. The first step to recovery is to call for an appointment.
ACCEPTING new patients!! We offer TELEMEDICINE appointments. Call or email to schedule your appointment. If you or a loved one are suffering from depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help, we are here for you. Our program offers a variety of services delivered with kindness and empathy.. We believe in positive behavioral health and improving your quality of life by evaluating, treating and managing a variety of mental health conditions. We offer individual counseling along with medication assisted treatment. The first step to recovery is to call for an appointment.
![Photo of Amit Mohan - ARC Psychiatry, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53a761b7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We believe in positive behavioral health and improving quality of life by evaluating, treating, and managing a variety of mental health conditions. We support our patients through their current life difficulties and alleviate the stress of behavioral health symptoms by offering timely access to individual, holistic, and innovative care.
We believe in positive behavioral health and improving quality of life by evaluating, treating, and managing a variety of mental health conditions. We support our patients through their current life difficulties and alleviate the stress of behavioral health symptoms by offering timely access to individual, holistic, and innovative care.
![Photo of Leslie Armstrong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8da49bfa-9324-4f00-99b6-bc2279f79598/1/320x400.jpeg)
Compassionate provider to help you through your mental health struggles and guide you to living your best life!
Compassionate provider to help you through your mental health struggles and guide you to living your best life!
![Photo of Lisa O'Shaughnessy, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de56472a-275b-4484-97b8-1163107841eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa O'Shaughnessy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, OH 44709 (Online Only)
Sometimes, you get so busy taking care of everything, everyone else, that you, well, fall to pieces. When you feel like you are too tired, you have no energy left, and you just cannot keep going like this... we might be just right to work together!
Sometimes, you get so busy taking care of everything, everyone else, that you, well, fall to pieces. When you feel like you are too tired, you have no energy left, and you just cannot keep going like this... we might be just right to work together!
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cef12dfc-4ce0-4608-93c6-97324f14a6f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Canton, OH 44702 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable out of pocket rates. Also Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable out of pocket rates. Also Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - VirtualPsych™, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3417d17b-7e47-475d-ba0d-82ed97c7a5ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (330) 222-3512 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
VirtualPsych allows for telepsych healthcare remotely in an easy to use environment. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of conditions such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder and have over 30 years of experience in psychiatry and mental health. We accept a variety of insurance plans from providers including Aetna, CareSource and United Healthcare. We also cover most Medicaid and Medicare plans as well. We have appointments available on a daily basis and the time to see a physician is typically less than a few days. Please call us at (330) 222-3512 if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
![Photo of Hakim Nuru, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f04c05b2-903b-474f-a3c5-a3ea2ed6db0a/2/320x400.png)
Hakim Nuru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, OH 44714 (Online Only)
Do you or your child need help to get back on track to a satisfying and productive life? I can help! I provide therapy and if agreed upon medication management in low doses for proven results. Together we can make changes that will last a lifetime. If you want to stop the cycle that you are in, visit my website and schedule an appointment now. I currently see clients M-W-F from 10 am - 7 pm and on weekends 8 am - 12 pm.
Do you or your child need help to get back on track to a satisfying and productive life? I can help! I provide therapy and if agreed upon medication management in low doses for proven results. Together we can make changes that will last a lifetime. If you want to stop the cycle that you are in, visit my website and schedule an appointment now. I currently see clients M-W-F from 10 am - 7 pm and on weekends 8 am - 12 pm.
![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
Alliance, OH 44601 (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.
Christopher Messmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Alliance, OH 44601 (Online Only)
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jessie Maumburudze, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/796980a9-f618-4df5-b8c9-fc5107b2e890/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessie Maumburudze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44114 (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.
![Photo of Nicole Denise Nickens, MSN, APRN, A-GNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c61744a2-7f99-4a6b-b599-da5baf79f4ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Denise Nickens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, A-GNP-C
Verified Verified
Willoughby, OH 44094
Are you suffering from an addiction and/or mental illness and need help? Do you need assistance losing weight? Are you currently looking for a psychiatric provider to refill your medication since your previous provider retired or relocated? Are you tired of waiting hours, weeks, or months to see your provider? Are you tired of going to several specialist for your mental health needs? Well look no further! Mrs. Nicole D. Dunson is here waiting for you! Call NOW! Same week availability.
Are you suffering from an addiction and/or mental illness and need help? Do you need assistance losing weight? Are you currently looking for a psychiatric provider to refill your medication since your previous provider retired or relocated? Are you tired of waiting hours, weeks, or months to see your provider? Are you tired of going to several specialist for your mental health needs? Well look no further! Mrs. Nicole D. Dunson is here waiting for you! Call NOW! Same week availability.
See more therapy options for Louisville
Nearby Searches for Louisville
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Louisville, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Louisville, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Anger Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Louisville, 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 Louisville?
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.