Psychiatrists in Marysville, OH
![Photo of Brandy Smith - Marching On Pediatric Mental Health Care, LLC, MS, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2879b9b7-d359-433d-af15-5db374ef64b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marching On Pediatric Mental Health Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN-CN, PMHNP-B, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
Marysville, OH 43040 (Online Only)
Providing exceptional mental health care to the pediatric population is my number one goal. Continuing to break the stigma associated with mental health, I'm a non-judgemental listening ear and strive to help children reach their true potential. Specializing in pediatric trauma, I not only can help with medication management, but also provide resources to ensure your child is receiving a well-rounded treatment approach.
Providing exceptional mental health care to the pediatric population is my number one goal. Continuing to break the stigma associated with mental health, I'm a non-judgemental listening ear and strive to help children reach their true potential. Specializing in pediatric trauma, I not only can help with medication management, but also provide resources to ensure your child is receiving a well-rounded treatment approach.
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac1f03bf-598c-470b-9927-f5d5e7c9912e/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/406ca859-d307-41e1-849b-ae1a05553dd4/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/003170af-9e17-4880-9c88-11a83ffbc2fb/2/320x400.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 Christine Boysel - Meaningful Believable Solutions LLC, PMHNP, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75ee090b-1d70-4417-aeeb-a3988c082c72/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meaningful Believable Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Marysville, OH 43040 (Online Only)
We understand the profound impact of mental health disorders and the challenges they pose. Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, we’re here to support you every step of the way with the best therapy practices and personalized care.
We understand the profound impact of mental health disorders and the challenges they pose. Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, we’re here to support you every step of the way with the best therapy practices and personalized care.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Sondra A Butler, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a94eaf9-40b0-4c74-9476-5a553b9d8afa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sondra A Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45209
Your treatment plan will be unique to you. We strive to make each patient feel themselves, medication should not alter who you are, it should help you manage daily challenges. We promise to listen to your concerns and make the necessary changes needed to offer you your best outcome.
Your treatment plan will be unique to you. We strive to make each patient feel themselves, medication should not alter who you are, it should help you manage daily challenges. We promise to listen to your concerns and make the necessary changes needed to offer you your best outcome.
![Photo of Katie Stanford - Harmony Psychiatric Services, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1c38a7d-7216-4976-a336-a270213b3fa3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Harmony Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Athens, OH 45701 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
Katie Stanford is a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with adults (18+) and provides care for patients who struggle with mental health issues. Katie has experience with and currently offers medication management, supportive therapy, and other integrative treatment modalities. Her treatment approach is rooted in a holistic, patient centered model of care. Katie is a military veteran who studied at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Wilkes University where she ultimately obtained a Master of Science Degree in Nursing.
![Photo of Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu - Cornerstone Integrated Healthcare of Ohio , PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41fc479c-00fd-4749-a683-9260c5301f29/1/320x400.png)
Cornerstone Integrated Healthcare of Ohio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience in mental health, addiction, and family services to diversified patient population. My mission is the desensitization of the stigma to mental health and substance abuse disorder in providing individualized holistic care. Meeting patients where they are and in upholding their dignity.
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience in mental health, addiction, and family services to diversified patient population. My mission is the desensitization of the stigma to mental health and substance abuse disorder in providing individualized holistic care. Meeting patients where they are and in upholding their dignity.
![Photo of Nicole Sbrocchi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f440c2ad-7d01-4b26-a270-a777c0489593/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health is as important as physical health because it affects our thoughts, feelings, and actions. When our mental health is affected, it can influence how we see ourselves, relate to others, and make decisions.
Mental health is as important as physical health because it affects our thoughts, feelings, and actions. When our mental health is affected, it can influence how we see ourselves, relate to others, and make decisions.
![Photo of Gina Vaisberg, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c4c8716-b964-496b-9e32-ddb52ba64f88/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gina Vaisberg is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from Wright State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience and received a Master of Science in Nursing from The Ohio State University. Gina believes in a treatment philosophy that provides the most up-to-date evidence-based quality care.
Gina Vaisberg is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She graduated from Wright State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience and received a Master of Science in Nursing from The Ohio State University. Gina believes in a treatment philosophy that provides the most up-to-date evidence-based quality care.
![Photo of Jorden Brent Weiss, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c54df92-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/9/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist trained to listen empathically to patients with deep respect for their emotional troubles. Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Executive Functioning disorders, Autism and Aspergers Syndrome are a major focus of my practice. Women's Health, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Psychosis and Schizophrenia are also treated extensively. Pharmacotherapy and Psychotherapy are employed with kindness and compassion to restore balance and quality of life. I employ an Integrative Psychiatric approach to resolve underlying root causes of illness and achieve symptom relief.
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist trained to listen empathically to patients with deep respect for their emotional troubles. Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Executive Functioning disorders, Autism and Aspergers Syndrome are a major focus of my practice. Women's Health, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Psychosis and Schizophrenia are also treated extensively. Pharmacotherapy and Psychotherapy are employed with kindness and compassion to restore balance and quality of life. I employ an Integrative Psychiatric approach to resolve underlying root causes of illness and achieve symptom relief.
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43b2cb3f-93ba-4483-a89b-3df498b7b4c9/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashport, OH 43830 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of Cassandra Hazelrig - Mental Health Services, LLC, MSN, CNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e938aa11-98e0-4bab-a21a-6248ad05415b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Hi, my name is Cassandra Hazelrig, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of healthcare experience. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, dual diagnosis, and other conditions. The first step toward healing is an accurate diagnosis, followed by a combination of effective medication management, lifestyle changes, and therapy techniques. We will work together to garner your inner strengths, learn new coping skills, and leap over stumbling blocks that prevent you from living your best life.
Hi, my name is Cassandra Hazelrig, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of healthcare experience. My work experience includes hospital and community mental health settings, serving patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, dual diagnosis, and other conditions. The first step toward healing is an accurate diagnosis, followed by a combination of effective medication management, lifestyle changes, and therapy techniques. We will work together to garner your inner strengths, learn new coping skills, and leap over stumbling blocks that prevent you from living your best life.
![Photo of Eric Rush, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f4759e0-2fe4-440f-a347-6c7492159c71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner integrating therapy and medication management. I work with clients to explore healing through mind, body, and overall wellness. Together, we'll develop a personalized approach that supports your journey in building a healthy and fulfilling life.
Accepting new clients! I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner integrating therapy and medication management. I work with clients to explore healing through mind, body, and overall wellness. Together, we'll develop a personalized approach that supports your journey in building a healthy and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Deirdre D Raimey, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69361e31-7713-4f57-b8a6-3dfcde56afcb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deirdre D Raimey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Greetings. My name is Deirdre Raimey. I have been a board certified family nurse practitioner for the past 14 years, and a family systems psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 8 years. I received all of my nursing education at Case Western Reserve University. For the past 8 years I have provided outpatient behavioral healthcare to adults in the Greater Cleveland area.
Greetings. My name is Deirdre Raimey. I have been a board certified family nurse practitioner for the past 14 years, and a family systems psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 8 years. I received all of my nursing education at Case Western Reserve University. For the past 8 years I have provided outpatient behavioral healthcare to adults in the Greater Cleveland area.
![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 Jasmine Shafto, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11ec631a-6bb0-47eb-ba8b-bc3d6a5eb89d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Shafto is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified in behavioral health by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Kentucky and Ohio. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northern Kentucky University and her master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati. She has provided psychiatric nursing services for more than 15 years in inpatient, outpatient, and community behavioral healthcare settings. Her scope of practice includes individuals 13 years of age and older.
Jasmine Shafto is a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified in behavioral health by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Kentucky and Ohio. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northern Kentucky University and her master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati. She has provided psychiatric nursing services for more than 15 years in inpatient, outpatient, and community behavioral healthcare settings. Her scope of practice includes individuals 13 years of age and older.
![Photo of Tiffany Seneff, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc150559-3589-4f02-9c2c-e91afdc61fe4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Seneff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Upper Arlington, OH 43221
Tiffany Seneff is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tiffany holds a Master of Science from Northern Kentucky University and Bachelor of Science from The University of Akron. She has over 15 years of Critical Care and Neuro-Interventional experience. Tiffany has a passion for mental health awareness and improving healthcare access to those in need.
Tiffany Seneff is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Tiffany holds a Master of Science from Northern Kentucky University and Bachelor of Science from The University of Akron. She has over 15 years of Critical Care and Neuro-Interventional experience. Tiffany has a passion for mental health awareness and improving healthcare access to those in need.
![Photo of Tiffani Gallimore, APN, DEA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d825b343-a9d6-409d-ba5f-7f13c20d30d5/1/320x400.png)
Tiffani Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, DEA
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43211 (Online Only)
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
![Photo of Nick Baston, NP, RN, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1565bdc1-68a2-46ce-b0f0-4877e0582abd/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Baston earned Doctoral of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah after completing a Masters degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from the Ohio State University. After Dr. Baston completed his Masters degree, he moved to a community mental health center in Columbus, Ohio where he treated a severe and persistently mental ill population consisting of schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Dr. Baston earned Doctoral of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah after completing a Masters degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from the Ohio State University. After Dr. Baston completed his Masters degree, he moved to a community mental health center in Columbus, Ohio where he treated a severe and persistently mental ill population consisting of schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
See more therapy options for Marysville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Marysville, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Marysville, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Marysville, OH see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Marysville?
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.