Psychiatrists in Milford, OH
![Photo of Vincent Bett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd8918e-bb0e-4980-84bb-ebee475f5aee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vincent is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep passion for improving mental health outcomes. I specialized in mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Opiod use Disorders.
Vincent is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep passion for improving mental health outcomes. I specialized in mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Opiod use Disorders.
![Photo of Calli Hall, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/876dc094-0bd7-4d03-addb-cd8fbbeaba1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, men’s and women’s issues, psychosis/schizophrenia, sleep disorders/insomnia, and grief, Calli is dedicated to helping her clients achieve optimal mental wellness. She is particularly passionate about addressing the mental health needs of individuals with medical comorbidities, including those with oncology, cardiology, and pulmonology issues. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other nonpharmacological interventions, Calli empowers her patients to manage psychiatric symptoms effectively.
Specializing in anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, men’s and women’s issues, psychosis/schizophrenia, sleep disorders/insomnia, and grief, Calli is dedicated to helping her clients achieve optimal mental wellness. She is particularly passionate about addressing the mental health needs of individuals with medical comorbidities, including those with oncology, cardiology, and pulmonology issues. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other nonpharmacological interventions, Calli empowers her patients to manage psychiatric symptoms effectively.
![Photo of Meagan Hawkins, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d1b7e3c-b69a-42e3-8d80-79033d64be5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meagan Hawkins is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her master's degree in nursing from Walden University and has been working in outpatient settings providing care to adolescents and adults. She is certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Current MAT certification for Suboxone and Methadone use. Her specialty areas include depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and substance use disorders.
Meagan Hawkins is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her master's degree in nursing from Walden University and has been working in outpatient settings providing care to adolescents and adults. She is certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Current MAT certification for Suboxone and Methadone use. Her specialty areas include depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Dipika Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6e8245a-fba0-4751-b6ee-45108a34da87/1/320x400.jpeg)
I received my medical degree from Gujarat University, and completed residency in psychiatry at Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago. Prior to my work in psychiatry, I worked in private practice and as an assistant professor in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have been practicing for over 25 years in the Cincinnati area and have experience with diverse populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I keep current with new advances in medicine and use evidence-based guidelines for treatment, but am also constantly learning from my patients.
I received my medical degree from Gujarat University, and completed residency in psychiatry at Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago. Prior to my work in psychiatry, I worked in private practice and as an assistant professor in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have been practicing for over 25 years in the Cincinnati area and have experience with diverse populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I keep current with new advances in medicine and use evidence-based guidelines for treatment, but am also constantly learning from my patients.
![Photo of Nikki Ruoss, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42e8a8b2-3ec8-4753-81a0-c3e753ac28ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taking the first step in focusing on your mental wellness is huge - and can be a little overwhelming. Congratulations for making yourself a priority! My work focuses on the treatment and medication management of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and bipolar. I have special interest in trauma, mindful-based therapy, and nutrition for mental health. I have a strong belief in creating an environment for decreasing mental health stigma, empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness, and lead fulfilling lives!
Taking the first step in focusing on your mental wellness is huge - and can be a little overwhelming. Congratulations for making yourself a priority! My work focuses on the treatment and medication management of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and bipolar. I have special interest in trauma, mindful-based therapy, and nutrition for mental health. I have a strong belief in creating an environment for decreasing mental health stigma, empowering individuals to achieve mental wellness, and lead fulfilling lives!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Tracey Nearon, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbc893d6-c01b-459a-b670-d5d43a7e7543/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tracey Nearon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amelia, OH 45102
Tracey is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her associate degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati Raymond Walters, her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Ohio University, and her master’s degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She has worked in healthcare for over 15 years with clinical experience in residential, inpatient acute care, and outpatient settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
Tracey is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her associate degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati Raymond Walters, her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Ohio University, and her master’s degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She has worked in healthcare for over 15 years with clinical experience in residential, inpatient acute care, and outpatient settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
![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
Batavia, OH 45103
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 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
Cincinnati, OH 45255
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 Dr. Reyna Gilmore - Restore at A Ray of Hope / Addiction/Counseling, MD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3963eac-66e7-4506-87e4-1191ab2ce18d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Restore at A Ray of Hope / Addiction/Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD
Verified Verified
Batavia, OH 45103
Building Hope and Love for those affected by mental illness and addiction
Building Hope and Love for those affected by mental illness and addiction
![Photo of Cindy Tufarella, APRN-BC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ae85fdf-10e5-4d49-bb05-df49282a9ffd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy Tufarella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Amelia, OH 45102
Cindy Tufarella is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnnati. She earned her post master's in psychiatric/mental health from Rivier University. She has worked in healthcare for over 20 years including inpatient and outpatient mental health, clinic, and urgent care settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
Cindy Tufarella is a dual certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnnati. She earned her post master's in psychiatric/mental health from Rivier University. She has worked in healthcare for over 20 years including inpatient and outpatient mental health, clinic, and urgent care settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
![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 Adeline Mangwa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3664a1a0-9bd3-4726-a92f-be18a4e2934a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adeline Mangwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Simmes Township, OH 45140 (Online Only)
Life can be very stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it leaves us feeling sad, depressed, anxious and scared. Your mental health is our priority. Adeline is a board-certified PMHNP and suboxone certified, with 15 years plus working in the mental health field.
Life can be very stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it leaves us feeling sad, depressed, anxious and scared. Your mental health is our priority. Adeline is a board-certified PMHNP and suboxone certified, with 15 years plus working in the mental health field.
![Photo of Ashley Brugmann, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/299fdf2b-d40d-4cc1-9219-58f2e17baa1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Brugmann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236 (Online Only)
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health. She excels at building strong patient relationships and creating individualized, evidence-based care plans. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys exploring new places, hiking, reading, and indulging in her love for art and interior design. For exceptional mental health care, Ashley Brugmann is your trusted partner on the journey to wellness.
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health. She excels at building strong patient relationships and creating individualized, evidence-based care plans. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys exploring new places, hiking, reading, and indulging in her love for art and interior design. For exceptional mental health care, Ashley Brugmann is your trusted partner on the journey to wellness.
![Photo of Emily Freimuth, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb1cf1d0-22fe-4b61-9383-cd7093a2eeb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Freimuth, NP, is a compassionate and experienced certified nurse practitioner practicing at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Ohio. Specializing in both primary care and psychiatry, Emily offers confidential and comprehensive care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Her approach focuses on providing empathetic and professional support, ensuring a safe space for patients to address their mental health concerns and work towards their personal goals. Emily's expertise encompasses a wide range of specialties, including ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Emily Freimuth, NP, is a compassionate and experienced certified nurse practitioner practicing at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Ohio. Specializing in both primary care and psychiatry, Emily offers confidential and comprehensive care tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Her approach focuses on providing empathetic and professional support, ensuring a safe space for patients to address their mental health concerns and work towards their personal goals. Emily's expertise encompasses a wide range of specialties, including ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Daniel S Hardy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMGT-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f45c8414-e26b-4585-9db8-f9c3b3543654/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel S Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMGT-BC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45227
Most of my clients are queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled. They may seek help with transition concerns, psychiatric medication, identifying/confirming a diagnosis, or therapy/support for living in a society that's a poor fit. Whatever their need, they're seeking someone comfortable with the diversity of experiences that our identities bring and how these intersect in society.
Most of my clients are queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled. They may seek help with transition concerns, psychiatric medication, identifying/confirming a diagnosis, or therapy/support for living in a society that's a poor fit. Whatever their need, they're seeking someone comfortable with the diversity of experiences that our identities bring and how these intersect in society.
![Photo of Denise Re, MSN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/700b2dad-df20-4179-b9da-d2debf75aca9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Re is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree in advanced practice nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University as a member of The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wright State University. She has practiced nursing since 2005 in inpatient and outpatient settings including medical, psychiatric, and addiction treatment. She believes in working together with patients to help them obtain their optimal level of mental well-being.
Denise Re is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree in advanced practice nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University as a member of The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wright State University. She has practiced nursing since 2005 in inpatient and outpatient settings including medical, psychiatric, and addiction treatment. She believes in working together with patients to help them obtain their optimal level of mental well-being.
![Photo of Heather Dlugosz, MD, CEDS, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3131a070-b68c-42ae-be7e-89575de00cf4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Dlugosz
Psychiatrist, MD, CEDS, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Ash, OH 45241 (Online Only)
Dr. Dlugosz has over a decade of experience with the treatment of eating disorders and their psychiatric co-morbidities in adolescents and adults. Dr. Dlugosz has vast experience in a variety of treatment settings, in multiple levels of care, including tele-health. She values partnering with patients and their supports in building an inclusive, compassionate and collaborative relationship throughout the assessment and treatment process as patients build a values-driven life outside of their eating disorder.
Dr. Dlugosz has over a decade of experience with the treatment of eating disorders and their psychiatric co-morbidities in adolescents and adults. Dr. Dlugosz has vast experience in a variety of treatment settings, in multiple levels of care, including tele-health. She values partnering with patients and their supports in building an inclusive, compassionate and collaborative relationship throughout the assessment and treatment process as patients build a values-driven life outside of their eating disorder.
![Photo of Davi Ann Hardy - Dr. Davi Ann Hardy with Hardy Rx Solutions LLC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0ad72c4-f297-41c9-9e01-2806ac2e7b4d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Davi Ann Hardy with Hardy Rx Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45255 (Online Only)
Serving female clients in Ohio. I provide a nonjudgmental and active listening environment. This time is yours and we will work together as a team to construct a plan that will help you with your mental health goals. We can determine an accurate diagnosis, get you the right medications, continue medications already prescribed or I can simply listen and offer professional therapeutic guidance. You have made it this far on your mental health journey, take that one more step and reach out. You are not alone.
Serving female clients in Ohio. I provide a nonjudgmental and active listening environment. This time is yours and we will work together as a team to construct a plan that will help you with your mental health goals. We can determine an accurate diagnosis, get you the right medications, continue medications already prescribed or I can simply listen and offer professional therapeutic guidance. You have made it this far on your mental health journey, take that one more step and reach out. You are not alone.
![Photo of Emilia Chinenye Mba, PMHNP, CNS, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ad38a2c-528e-4484-8e4d-544b6ca66fdf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emilia Chinenye Mba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNS, BSN
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45236
Emilia Mba, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across lifespan. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. She follows evidence-based guidelines. She brings a humanistic philosophy of holistic care and she values interdisciplinary collaboration. She is culturally sensitive, empathetic and very particular about involving her clients in every step of their care because she believes that this approach is synonymous with the best
Emilia Mba, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across lifespan. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. She follows evidence-based guidelines. She brings a humanistic philosophy of holistic care and she values interdisciplinary collaboration. She is culturally sensitive, empathetic and very particular about involving her clients in every step of their care because she believes that this approach is synonymous with the best
![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.
See more therapy options for Milford
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Milford, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Milford, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Psychosis |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | TRICARE |
How Psychiatrists in Milford, OH see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Milford?
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.