Psychiatrists in Maineville, OH
![Photo of Ildiko Sherman, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65750677-d2d5-484d-9a4f-fa6c3f38f630/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ildiko Sherman is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her associate and bachelor's degrees from Miami University and master's degree in Nursing from University of Cincinnati with advanced certification in psychiatric and mental health nursing. She provides medication management for adults. Her treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders including panic and post-traumatic stress, depression, adjustment disorders, anger, and bipolar disorder. Ildiko is a mother of three and grandmother to eleven - in her free time she enjoys gardening, reading, cooking, and traveling.
Ildiko Sherman is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her associate and bachelor's degrees from Miami University and master's degree in Nursing from University of Cincinnati with advanced certification in psychiatric and mental health nursing. She provides medication management for adults. Her treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders including panic and post-traumatic stress, depression, adjustment disorders, anger, and bipolar disorder. Ildiko is a mother of three and grandmother to eleven - in her free time she enjoys gardening, reading, cooking, and traveling.
![Photo of Lillie Quarles, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d133aec5-8b72-44d1-baa0-50f390cbb5a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lillie R, Quarles, Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner, PMHNP Lillie Quarles is a specialist in mental health caring for the adult patients with mental health needs at LifeStance in Mason Ohio. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Cincinnati. She received her master's degree from Excelsior College in New York. She received her post graduate certificate from Indian Weslyland University. She is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
Lillie R, Quarles, Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner, PMHNP Lillie Quarles is a specialist in mental health caring for the adult patients with mental health needs at LifeStance in Mason Ohio. She completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Cincinnati. She received her master's degree from Excelsior College in New York. She received her post graduate certificate from Indian Weslyland University. She is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ronald Lee Tyson, DNP, DMin, PMHNP-B, ANP-BC, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7983b39-7f4e-4660-9630-7ace0d6c7f82/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ronald Lee Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, DMin, PMHNP-B, ANP-BC, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040
Lee Side Wellness is a psychiatric practice whose mission is to empathically enhance the lives of people impacted by psychiatric illness and addiction issues by fostering hope, help, and healing. Our approach is grounded in the core value that all people matter, are of sacred worth, and warrant the finest in psychiatric healthcare. Lee Side Wellness provides medication management and treats a variety of psychiatric conditions including: anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and substance abuse. Lee Side Wellness provides care for patients of all ages.
Lee Side Wellness is a psychiatric practice whose mission is to empathically enhance the lives of people impacted by psychiatric illness and addiction issues by fostering hope, help, and healing. Our approach is grounded in the core value that all people matter, are of sacred worth, and warrant the finest in psychiatric healthcare. Lee Side Wellness provides medication management and treats a variety of psychiatric conditions including: anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and substance abuse. Lee Side Wellness provides care for patients of all ages.
![Photo of Eric Adams - Lee Side Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52636cd1-d8df-4eec-9d9b-268db4738310/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I have been in mental health care for almost 15 years in a variety of settings. The bulk of my experience has been in the high acuity setting of Emergency Psychiatry. I have a passion for empathic care that seeks to understand and help those dealing with not just mental illness, but the stress of life in general. I treat individuals of all ages and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. I am also particularly passionate about providing care for psychotic and psychosis related disorders, as well as working with sexual identity and gender identity concerns.
Hi! I have been in mental health care for almost 15 years in a variety of settings. The bulk of my experience has been in the high acuity setting of Emergency Psychiatry. I have a passion for empathic care that seeks to understand and help those dealing with not just mental illness, but the stress of life in general. I treat individuals of all ages and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. I am also particularly passionate about providing care for psychotic and psychosis related disorders, as well as working with sexual identity and gender identity concerns.
![Photo of Tiffonie Lynn Richmond, PMHNP, BC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fade747f-518d-4bf2-8e11-4936b34f491d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffonie Lynn Richmond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040
I am a highly motivated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over seven years of experience working in the psychiatric setting.
I am a highly motivated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over seven years of experience working in the psychiatric setting.
![Photo of Lori Morgan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d776a3ca-b29a-4416-a57e-25ef15e73233/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a highly passionate and hardworking psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) who strives to provide exceptional care to the mental health population. Favorite Quote by Austrian Neurologist, Sigmund Freud, is “Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.”
I am a highly passionate and hardworking psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) who strives to provide exceptional care to the mental health population. Favorite Quote by Austrian Neurologist, Sigmund Freud, is “Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.”
![Photo of Dr. Lisa Schauseil - LeeSide Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9251b240-9e28-49e8-942b-c50adedbcd4c/2/320x400.jpeg)
LeeSide Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040 (Online Only)
Dr. Schauseil has a dual master’s degree in counseling education and nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Her doctorate project was on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and she has a passion for working with people of all ages struggling with symptoms related to ADHD and other mental health issues. She is dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in our Mason office and through virtual visits.
Dr. Schauseil has a dual master’s degree in counseling education and nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. Her doctorate project was on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and she has a passion for working with people of all ages struggling with symptoms related to ADHD and other mental health issues. She is dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She sees children, adolescents, and adults in our Mason office and through virtual visits.
![Photo of Cristina Seicarescu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fd3f6d8-4166-407f-9a1f-a0e0a05bbceb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Seicarescu is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from the Carol Davila University of Medicine in Romania and completed her psychiatry residency at Wayne State University in Detroit. Dr. Seicarescu's approach is collaborative, supportive, and patient-centered. Her practice focuses on medication management along with elements of therapy from different modalities, such as supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy that are patient-tailored.
Dr. Seicarescu is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from the Carol Davila University of Medicine in Romania and completed her psychiatry residency at Wayne State University in Detroit. Dr. Seicarescu's approach is collaborative, supportive, and patient-centered. Her practice focuses on medication management along with elements of therapy from different modalities, such as supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy that are patient-tailored.
![Photo of Richard Sanders, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fa7365f-ef05-4fad-8d23-819453f50726/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Richard Sanders was born in Akron Ohio. He has lived in Ohio for most of his life. He has a BS in psychobiology from Centre College of Kentucky, an MS in biology from Akron University, and an MD from Wright State University. He completed residency in general psychiatry at University of Pittsburgh / Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic in 1992. He has worked with active-duty military in the US Air Force, with military veterans in the VA, and with civilians in several settings. He has been active in research and teaching throughout his career.
Dr. Richard Sanders was born in Akron Ohio. He has lived in Ohio for most of his life. He has a BS in psychobiology from Centre College of Kentucky, an MS in biology from Akron University, and an MD from Wright State University. He completed residency in general psychiatry at University of Pittsburgh / Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic in 1992. He has worked with active-duty military in the US Air Force, with military veterans in the VA, and with civilians in several settings. He has been active in research and teaching throughout his career.
![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 Gihan Abdel Razik, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2fa72d3-6d31-48c8-af86-c634349de341/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Razik is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over 20 years. Throughout her career she has helped thousands of patients overcome their mental health struggles though medication management and a combination of supportive and psychodynamic psychotherapy. She graduated from Ain Shams University School of Medicine in 1992 and went on to do her psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after which she became board-certified.
Dr Razik is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over 20 years. Throughout her career she has helped thousands of patients overcome their mental health struggles though medication management and a combination of supportive and psychodynamic psychotherapy. She graduated from Ain Shams University School of Medicine in 1992 and went on to do her psychiatry residency training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after which she became board-certified.
![Photo of Amy Mattern, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09947370-44eb-4baa-8638-d9ea57bf9dfa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mattern is board certified in Adult psychiatry. Her approach to mental health is integrative, with utilization of complementary and alternative treatments such as yoga, lifestyle changes, and nutritional interventions in addition to traditional medication management and therapy. Dr. Mattern prefers to focus on the overall health and well-being of an individual, rather than just treating symptoms. Dr. Mattern’s practice focuses on medication management along with elements of therapy from different modalities, such as supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy that are patient-tailored.
Dr. Mattern is board certified in Adult psychiatry. Her approach to mental health is integrative, with utilization of complementary and alternative treatments such as yoga, lifestyle changes, and nutritional interventions in addition to traditional medication management and therapy. Dr. Mattern prefers to focus on the overall health and well-being of an individual, rather than just treating symptoms. Dr. Mattern’s practice focuses on medication management along with elements of therapy from different modalities, such as supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy that are patient-tailored.
![Photo of Megan Faulkner, MSPA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60417264-e6cb-4b61-ba7e-5ea6a0754ae3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Faulkner
Physician Assistant, MSPA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loveland, OH 45140 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Megan. I am a nationally certified Physician Assistant with a profound interest in mental health. Growing up in a rural community with limited access to mental health support, I've developed a deep understanding of the crucial role mental health services play in transforming lives. With a focus on managing conditions such as adolescent and adult depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and ADHD, my approach is to educate and help manage your most distressing symptoms.
Hi, I'm Megan. I am a nationally certified Physician Assistant with a profound interest in mental health. Growing up in a rural community with limited access to mental health support, I've developed a deep understanding of the crucial role mental health services play in transforming lives. With a focus on managing conditions such as adolescent and adult depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and ADHD, my approach is to educate and help manage your most distressing symptoms.
![Photo of David Sahadevan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1537dab-e664-4e47-a368-f7a27962bcbf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sahadevan took an adventurous path to Talkiatry. After perhaps thinking a little too hard about Intro to Philosophy in college - “the unexamined life is not worth living” - he first used his chemistry degree to work in pharmaceutical research. Changing course, he then worked in computer network engineering, before deciding to find a more meaningful path. He worked as an EMT, then earned a Master’s in Physiology before finally landing in medical school at Ohio State. Finding a surprising interest in psychiatry, he stayed at Ohio State for residency, and then a fellowship in forensic psychiatry.
Dr. Sahadevan took an adventurous path to Talkiatry. After perhaps thinking a little too hard about Intro to Philosophy in college - “the unexamined life is not worth living” - he first used his chemistry degree to work in pharmaceutical research. Changing course, he then worked in computer network engineering, before deciding to find a more meaningful path. He worked as an EMT, then earned a Master’s in Physiology before finally landing in medical school at Ohio State. Finding a surprising interest in psychiatry, he stayed at Ohio State for residency, and then a fellowship in forensic psychiatry.
![Photo of Bethany McCann, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/603923c0-30a5-4040-b912-621469000a31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany McCann is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. After obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Kent State University, she received her medical degree from Ohio Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. She then went on to complete her Psychiatry Residency training at The Ohio State University, where she served as a Chief Resident for two years. Following residency, Dr. McCann pursued an additional year of training through Ohio State, where she completed a Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship.
Bethany McCann is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. After obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Kent State University, she received her medical degree from Ohio Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. She then went on to complete her Psychiatry Residency training at The Ohio State University, where she served as a Chief Resident for two years. Following residency, Dr. McCann pursued an additional year of training through Ohio State, where she completed a Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship.
![Photo of Lynnea Carder, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c63de0f3-35e9-4c68-a173-26822d04b807/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carder has been practicing for over 20 years in general adult psychiatry. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has a certification in Elder Law. She has advanced training in psychopharmacology which she earned with distinction. She received her medical degree from the University of Toledo, College of Medicine and Life Sciences. She completed her internship with the Department of Family medicine and completed her residency with Department of Psychiatry both at the University of Toledo, College of Medicine and Life Sciences.
Dr. Carder has been practicing for over 20 years in general adult psychiatry. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has a certification in Elder Law. She has advanced training in psychopharmacology which she earned with distinction. She received her medical degree from the University of Toledo, College of Medicine and Life Sciences. She completed her internship with the Department of Family medicine and completed her residency with Department of Psychiatry both at the University of Toledo, College of Medicine and Life Sciences.
![Photo of Tyler O'Brien, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e69351e-e6b5-40c8-a907-0e6d927ddcde/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. O'Brien is a board eligible adult psychiatrist who completed his medical education at Northeast Ohio Medical University. Following his graduation from NEOMED, he completed a residency in Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at West Virginia University/Charleston Area Medical Center. Throughout his training, he has enjoyed working in both outpatient and hospital settings and has a great passion for medical education and teaching the next generation of mental healthcare providers.
Dr. O'Brien is a board eligible adult psychiatrist who completed his medical education at Northeast Ohio Medical University. Following his graduation from NEOMED, he completed a residency in Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at West Virginia University/Charleston Area Medical Center. Throughout his training, he has enjoyed working in both outpatient and hospital settings and has a great passion for medical education and teaching the next generation of mental healthcare providers.
![Photo of Jennifer Shoenfelt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/362964d0-6950-4d63-86ab-24be9718ac8b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Shoenfelt is a double board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on child and adolescent medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Shoenfelt may believe that additional therapy is needed and will ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome. She provides treatment plans that include holistic recommendations that include diet, exercise, educational and psychosocial/spiritual aspects of care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoenfelt is a double board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on child and adolescent medication management. Typically, she offers this in conjunction with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. However, occasionally Dr. Shoenfelt may believe that additional therapy is needed and will ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome. She provides treatment plans that include holistic recommendations that include diet, exercise, educational and psychosocial/spiritual aspects of care.
![Photo of Divya Khosla, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4687323c-3446-4b22-bef8-9c3848cc4ff3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Divya Khosla, MD, is a board certified Adult Psychiatrist and board eligible Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from Ross University, completing all of her clinicals in Maryland, D.C., and NYC. She completed her adult psychiatry residency at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Khosla has participated in a variety of innovative academic clinical research, and has presented research at annual national meetings of the American Psychiatric Association. Her clinical experience with varying demographics at different clinical sites around the country has allowed her to treat patients i
Dr. Divya Khosla, MD, is a board certified Adult Psychiatrist and board eligible Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from Ross University, completing all of her clinicals in Maryland, D.C., and NYC. She completed her adult psychiatry residency at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Khosla has participated in a variety of innovative academic clinical research, and has presented research at annual national meetings of the American Psychiatric Association. Her clinical experience with varying demographics at different clinical sites around the country has allowed her to treat patients i
![Photo of Victor Arballo, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c740b6d2-2797-4b60-9b09-ca60aadabd0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Arballo is board-certified psychiatrist who completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. He received residency training at University of Texas Health - San Antonio where in addition to clinical training was appointed resident chair of the Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Committee.
Dr. Arballo is board-certified psychiatrist who completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. He received residency training at University of Texas Health - San Antonio where in addition to clinical training was appointed resident chair of the Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Committee.
See more therapy options for Maineville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Maineville, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Maineville, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Grief |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BHS | Behavioral Health Systems |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Maineville, 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 Maineville?
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.