Psychiatrists in Lyndhurst, OH
![Photo of Gerald Makobong, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7d2a8f1-b4b7-4694-9f4b-71a02c552f8d/1/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc22fe8d-7473-40c9-bee6-7678313719ce/1/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab861e93-26b4-4006-b2f0-a00da5973f42/1/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9b9aea4-e963-4661-8ecb-704bae61c22c/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1063bee2-75d7-4d33-bc0c-0109657d5f94/1/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
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 Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fde5ced-cb49-40ba-95c8-b06a95d156be/1/320x400.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 Ebony M Elam, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/689fe5ac-4060-4149-bf50-12aa7ed9dc6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Treating clients age 16 years old and up who may be struggling with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar disorder, sleep disorder, weight loss and more. Assisting clients in achieving a safe and effective medication regimen that will help restore balance and improve daily function.
Treating clients age 16 years old and up who may be struggling with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, adhd, bipolar disorder, sleep disorder, weight loss and more. Assisting clients in achieving a safe and effective medication regimen that will help restore balance and improve daily function.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c2d4264-379a-4b33-8892-1a162fd059f4/1/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Anna Popova, MSN, CNP/PM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c108c87c-6a93-4257-8077-31c40901e38c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Popova, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Anna Popova is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Akron, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College, is a Licensed Practical Nurse through ATS Institute of Technology, is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the Ohio Board of Nursing and is ANCC certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Anna Popova, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Anna Popova is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Akron, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College, is a Licensed Practical Nurse through ATS Institute of Technology, is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the Ohio Board of Nursing and is ANCC certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
![Photo of Deanna Berry, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce27cf49-aebe-4f6c-b4ac-76ec64b087b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deanna Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44124
Deanna Berry is a nurse practitioner dually certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as adult-geriatric primary care. She has 20 years experience as nurse. She received her bachelor's degree, master's degree and post-master's certification in nursing from Ursuline College in Cleveland, OH and is certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
Deanna Berry is a nurse practitioner dually certified in psychiatric and mental health as well as adult-geriatric primary care. She has 20 years experience as nurse. She received her bachelor's degree, master's degree and post-master's certification in nursing from Ursuline College in Cleveland, OH and is certified through the American Nursing Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
![Photo of Larissa Elgudin - ADHD Assessment at DELR, MD, CNS, PhD, LISW, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/745e1fdd-1db9-4a00-9781-dd05d351210f/2/320x400.jpeg)
DELR offers comprehensive ADHD assessment, evaluation and treatment. The evaluation includes taking an objective, computerized test, the QbTest, which is an FDA approved advanced test for the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. It is also used to gain a clear understanding of ADHD symptoms. The QbTest measures activity level, impulse control, and the ability to maintain attention. The results of the QbTest are used to create a report which compares an individual's results with data from other people of the same sex and age.
DELR offers comprehensive ADHD assessment, evaluation and treatment. The evaluation includes taking an objective, computerized test, the QbTest, which is an FDA approved advanced test for the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. It is also used to gain a clear understanding of ADHD symptoms. The QbTest measures activity level, impulse control, and the ability to maintain attention. The results of the QbTest are used to create a report which compares an individual's results with data from other people of the same sex and age.
![Photo of Shane Strnad, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f9cc68a-2174-4f7e-baf1-c691cda444cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shane Strnad is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care through healthy living habits, diet and exercise. He received his undergraduate and master's degrees in nursing from the University of Akron, where he is currently pursuing a doctoral degree and also has served as a lecturer and presenter. He has worked at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Mansfield, Ohio, and at community health centers in the Akron area.
Shane Strnad is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care through healthy living habits, diet and exercise. He received his undergraduate and master's degrees in nursing from the University of Akron, where he is currently pursuing a doctoral degree and also has served as a lecturer and presenter. He has worked at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Mansfield, Ohio, and at community health centers in the Akron area.
![Photo of Becca Granger, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50186637-7a04-4d78-aebb-6dbe194d6cef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Becca Granger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040
Are you a high functioning individual who has mastered the art of, "I'm fine. It's fine. Everything's fine?" Wondering how much longer you can keep up the pace and who will be impacted if you cannot? Looking for a confidential space where you don’t have to be “on?” A space to be real and address the stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, and insomnia that often come with great responsibility? Space to breathe, be heard, gain perspective, develop solutions, and leave with hope?
Are you a high functioning individual who has mastered the art of, "I'm fine. It's fine. Everything's fine?" Wondering how much longer you can keep up the pace and who will be impacted if you cannot? Looking for a confidential space where you don’t have to be “on?” A space to be real and address the stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, and insomnia that often come with great responsibility? Space to breathe, be heard, gain perspective, develop solutions, and leave with hope?
![Photo of Alex McCormick, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca4c9796-436a-488c-a897-c83de758649e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alex McCormick
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040
Waitlist for new clients
I help those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, or illness that keeps them from fulfilling their full potential. My approach is to optimize wellness by combining integrative and holistic principles with the traditional practice of psychiatry. As an osteopathic physician, my foundation is based on principles of treating the whole person, incorporating mind, body, and spirit; acknowledging that the body is capable of self-regulation and self-healing; and realizing that structure and function are reciprocally related.
I help those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, or illness that keeps them from fulfilling their full potential. My approach is to optimize wellness by combining integrative and holistic principles with the traditional practice of psychiatry. As an osteopathic physician, my foundation is based on principles of treating the whole person, incorporating mind, body, and spirit; acknowledging that the body is capable of self-regulation and self-healing; and realizing that structure and function are reciprocally related.
![Photo of Michael McFadden, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f9c9ee2-6eb6-4b8f-94dd-82b764d62605/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael McFadden, MD Dr. Michael McFadden is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. He completed his residency in adult psychiatry at Summa Health System and Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital. Dr. McFadden completed his fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Akron Children's Hospital. He is dual board-certified in child and adolescent and adult psychiatry. Dr. McFadden uses medication management in combination with cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and supportive therapies, and motivational interviewing with children and adolescents.
Dr. Michael McFadden, MD Dr. Michael McFadden is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. He completed his residency in adult psychiatry at Summa Health System and Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital. Dr. McFadden completed his fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Akron Children's Hospital. He is dual board-certified in child and adolescent and adult psychiatry. Dr. McFadden uses medication management in combination with cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and supportive therapies, and motivational interviewing with children and adolescents.
![Photo of Chinyere Ihejirika - CIP Healthcare LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf3280da-3eb6-4ce8-bf23-69c8058ef796/1/320x400.png)
CIP Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Heights, OH 44143
Accepting New Clients in OH, TX & AZ-. I am committed to helping those suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit disorder, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse. I am a practicing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio Arizona and Texas. I have been working as a nurse for 20 years and in mental health for 10 years—and have loved every moment! I became a nurse practitioner to deliver a higher level of patient care, realize a greater scope of practice and have increased job satisfaction. I wanted to participate in a follow- up and plan of care in a more meaningful way.
Accepting New Clients in OH, TX & AZ-. I am committed to helping those suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit disorder, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse. I am a practicing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in Ohio Arizona and Texas. I have been working as a nurse for 20 years and in mental health for 10 years—and have loved every moment! I became a nurse practitioner to deliver a higher level of patient care, realize a greater scope of practice and have increased job satisfaction. I wanted to participate in a follow- up and plan of care in a more meaningful way.
![Photo of Kara Forte-Sullen - Kara Forte-Sullen PMHNP - Seasons Of Wellness, LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63c0c8c2-e32d-451c-948b-6cc307cf09a9/1/320x400.png)
Kara Forte-Sullen PMHNP - Seasons Of Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Highland Heights, OH 44143 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Kara! I am currently accepting new patients in Ohio seeking telehealth and In-person visits. Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or even skeptical about Mental Health care? Are you ready to open up about the emotional pain you are experiencing? I believe open communication and active listening are crucial to understanding a persons struggles and making a accurate diagnosis. I collaborate closely with my patients, crafting personalized treatment plans that incorporate therapy, medication, or a blend of both, tailored to their needs. My goal is to help you become your best self. Let's accomplish this as a team together!
Hello, I'm Kara! I am currently accepting new patients in Ohio seeking telehealth and In-person visits. Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or even skeptical about Mental Health care? Are you ready to open up about the emotional pain you are experiencing? I believe open communication and active listening are crucial to understanding a persons struggles and making a accurate diagnosis. I collaborate closely with my patients, crafting personalized treatment plans that incorporate therapy, medication, or a blend of both, tailored to their needs. My goal is to help you become your best self. Let's accomplish this as a team together!
![Photo of Neeti Wyckoff, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f53c94b-82d1-4bd8-a827-86d8d5c77c8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wyckoff is board certified and a fellow of the American Board of Pediatrics. She is a graduate of the University of Rochester and the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine and served her residency at The Cleveland Clinic. She also served as staff pediatrician at both Akron City Hospital and Akron General Medical Center and was attending pediatrician at Akron Children's Hospital. Dr. Wyckoff completed her portal fellowship in child and adult psychiatry at University Hospitals, developing a Depression Toolkit for use at Rainbow Babies' and Children's Hospital.
Dr. Wyckoff is board certified and a fellow of the American Board of Pediatrics. She is a graduate of the University of Rochester and the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine and served her residency at The Cleveland Clinic. She also served as staff pediatrician at both Akron City Hospital and Akron General Medical Center and was attending pediatrician at Akron Children's Hospital. Dr. Wyckoff completed her portal fellowship in child and adult psychiatry at University Hospitals, developing a Depression Toolkit for use at Rainbow Babies' and Children's Hospital.
![Photo of Kamal-Neil S. Dass, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e49f9f2-a1ea-4b5a-8add-e5c0762fa9e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a lifelong Clevelander. I graduated from Beachwood High School in 1987 and completed my undergraduate education at Cleveland State University. I then completed my first two years of medical school in Athens, OH at Ohio University. My last two years of medical school training were done in Warrensville, OH at what used to be called Brentwood Hospital and later Meridia South Pointe Hospital. I graduated medical school in 1996. I then completed a General Psychiatry residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at University Hospitals of Cleveland.
I am a lifelong Clevelander. I graduated from Beachwood High School in 1987 and completed my undergraduate education at Cleveland State University. I then completed my first two years of medical school in Athens, OH at Ohio University. My last two years of medical school training were done in Warrensville, OH at what used to be called Brentwood Hospital and later Meridia South Pointe Hospital. I graduated medical school in 1996. I then completed a General Psychiatry residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at University Hospitals of Cleveland.
![Photo of Aleksandr Zverinskiy - Brave Health, MD, FNP-C, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e35962d-5124-44d2-a4df-7ec7e91d3b8f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, FNP-C, PhD
Verified Verified
Highland Heights, OH 44143 (Online Only)
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
See more therapy options for Lyndhurst
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lyndhurst, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lyndhurst, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
63% | Addiction |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Lyndhurst, OH see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lyndhurst?
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.