Psychiatrists in Mason, 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 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 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 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).
![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 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 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 Reyna Gilmore - A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services, MD, LSW, LISW, LPCC, LPCC-S, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2ecb1fb-d8fa-4d68-b523-cb2efa131a83/3/320x400.jpeg)
A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD, LSW, LISW, LPCC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040
We are a faith-based practice. We help individuals with the daily stress of life. This includes the outcome of depression, anxiety, and mood swings
We are a faith-based practice. We help individuals with the daily stress of life. This includes the outcome of depression, anxiety, and mood swings
![Photo of Paul J Schwartz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c8f4502-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, and psychoanalyst who has received my clinical and psychopharmacology training at Yale University, the National Institute of Mental Health, the VA Medical Center, and the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute. I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. If you are having serious difficulties with your mental health, call me.
I am a psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, and psychoanalyst who has received my clinical and psychopharmacology training at Yale University, the National Institute of Mental Health, the VA Medical Center, and the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute. I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. If you are having serious difficulties with your mental health, call me.
![Photo of Richard Rutz, RN, MSN, ARNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46aa2ab3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Rutz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, ARNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040
I've been a practicing psychiatric nurse since 1994 and as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2005. Many areas of treatment have included mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD/trauma related issues and eating disorders. Working at many different levels of care, including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient has allowed me to see mental health at a variety of intensities. I believe in the motivation of the individual and integrating with their health care team to allow the individual to function at the highest level. We are using Zoom to provide quality and safe tele-health sessions.
I've been a practicing psychiatric nurse since 1994 and as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2005. Many areas of treatment have included mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD/trauma related issues and eating disorders. Working at many different levels of care, including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient has allowed me to see mental health at a variety of intensities. I believe in the motivation of the individual and integrating with their health care team to allow the individual to function at the highest level. We are using Zoom to provide quality and safe tele-health sessions.
![Photo of Daniel Almeida, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6f68a40-91df-4705-96ea-9fa10156febf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I have dedicated my career to assisting persons going through challenging times that may have affected their academic/professional lives, relationships, and ability to cope and find purpose. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. In my practice, we focus on the patient, their family, and their community.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I have dedicated my career to assisting persons going through challenging times that may have affected their academic/professional lives, relationships, and ability to cope and find purpose. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. In my practice, we focus on the patient, their family, and their community.
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![Photo of Edwina R Zettler, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e3bed5-776a-4b66-afcd-00739127f7a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Adult Psychiatrist with a focus in addiction. Having worked 20 years in mental health and over 12 years in addiction, I am especially equipped to understand your unique experience. I provide comprehensive care by addressing not only your addiction but also any accompanying mental health issues. My practice is small, quiet and very confidential. You will NOT be treated like a "number" in a big box clinic. Your treatment will be individualized and specific to you. Therapy combined with medications such as Suboxone can help you to rebuild your life and live joyfully.
I am an Adult Psychiatrist with a focus in addiction. Having worked 20 years in mental health and over 12 years in addiction, I am especially equipped to understand your unique experience. I provide comprehensive care by addressing not only your addiction but also any accompanying mental health issues. My practice is small, quiet and very confidential. You will NOT be treated like a "number" in a big box clinic. Your treatment will be individualized and specific to you. Therapy combined with medications such as Suboxone can help you to rebuild your life and live joyfully.
![Photo of George Andrew Darling, CNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87c0bd2b-f7c7-4852-9e44-2a93d6817043/3/320x400.jpeg)
George Andrew Darling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!
![Photo of Sarah Rossetter - Sarah Rossetter, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9f3a3ab-596b-4880-bc29-f5aaad2b6db4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Unsure if medication is the right choice for you? Are you looking for a doctor who will truly listen and understand your needs? Dr. Rossetter combines a warm, compassionate interaction style with medical expertise to offer truly personalized care.
Unsure if medication is the right choice for you? Are you looking for a doctor who will truly listen and understand your needs? Dr. Rossetter combines a warm, compassionate interaction style with medical expertise to offer truly personalized care.
![Photo of Ashley Altman, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/198edc04-65dd-4c83-8c71-a8306549eaa9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Altman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The decision to pursue psychiatric medication can be difficult! None of us like to admit that our brains and bodies need a little extra help. However, with comprehensive assessment, we can work together to identify your diagnosis and find a medication regimen that works best for you.
The decision to pursue psychiatric medication can be difficult! None of us like to admit that our brains and bodies need a little extra help. However, with comprehensive assessment, we can work together to identify your diagnosis and find a medication regimen that works best for you.
![Photo of Adrienne McCray, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5613f85-1e48-46ca-b85d-fe69bbcc5e40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.
Adrienne Y. McCray, DO Adrienne Y. McCray is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. Adrienne believes in a treatment approach that incorporates a biopsychosocial philosophy. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys travel and reading.
![Photo of Keshia Nichole Jordan, CNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f71086c0-7901-4caa-8035-3160178699d8/1/320x400.png)
Keshia Nichole Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040
At Most Hope Treatment Center, we will help our clients with their mental health and addiction needs by providing convenient, compassionate, care and making their success the number one priority at our practice.
At Most Hope Treatment Center, we will help our clients with their mental health and addiction needs by providing convenient, compassionate, care and making their success the number one priority at our practice.
![Photo of Drew Pittman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e19d15ec-4f77-4900-a433-bdb64b8e3680/5/320x400.jpeg)
Drew Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new patients for same week telehealth appointments in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
I am currently accepting new patients for same week telehealth appointments in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
![Photo of Melissa Fox - Resolute Wellness Associates, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a868836-3c52-4c6a-9c2c-a19fe497e8bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Resolute Wellness Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040 (Online Only)
Melissa Fox, a board-certified nurse practitioner in Ohio, specializes in adult psychiatric care. She is dedicated to helping individuals navigate various mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, panic disorders, stress, mood disorders, adjustment issues, OCD, and sleep disturbances. With a compassionate and comprehensive approach, Melissa leverages her advanced training in psychiatry, family medicine, and Integrative Psychiatry to equally consider the root cause of symptoms and deliver holistic, personalized treatment plans tailored to each person's needs.
Melissa Fox, a board-certified nurse practitioner in Ohio, specializes in adult psychiatric care. She is dedicated to helping individuals navigate various mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, panic disorders, stress, mood disorders, adjustment issues, OCD, and sleep disturbances. With a compassionate and comprehensive approach, Melissa leverages her advanced training in psychiatry, family medicine, and Integrative Psychiatry to equally consider the root cause of symptoms and deliver holistic, personalized treatment plans tailored to each person's needs.
![Photo of Crystal Ravenel Farrell - A Crystal Mind, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d5a2697-173b-4da0-af0d-d39428049d03/3/320x400.jpeg)
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
See more therapy options for Mason
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mason, OH
20+
Average cost per session
$165
Psychiatrists in Mason, OH who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | Aetna |
94% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Mason, OH see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mason?
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.