Psychiatrists in Mount Vernon, OH
![Photo of Samantha Oana, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4099214-eb3d-4e69-8131-ee3bdb3eede8/1/320x400.png)
Samantha Oana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, OH 43050
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Steven Reedy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa9b0c57-33f3-42d8-839c-edf4c0e2e064/1/320x400.png)
Steven Reedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middleburg Heights, OH 44130 (Online Only)
My name is Steven Reedy. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring ideals from both the medical and nursing models of care in a holistic approach. In doing so, this allows me to care for you with compassion, as a whole person, and with the latest evidence-based practices. I use the latest evidence-based practice in my approach, along with modalities that include cognitive behavioral therapy, therapeutic communication, and motivational interviewing. I practice active listening and solution-based interventions.
My name is Steven Reedy. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring ideals from both the medical and nursing models of care in a holistic approach. In doing so, this allows me to care for you with compassion, as a whole person, and with the latest evidence-based practices. I use the latest evidence-based practice in my approach, along with modalities that include cognitive behavioral therapy, therapeutic communication, and motivational interviewing. I practice active listening and solution-based interventions.
![Photo of Nicole Robbins, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f9f0d6a-a66f-45d7-bd73-be596f80b1b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Robbins is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner whose primary focus is resilience in children and adolescents. She specializes in medication management of ADHD, depression, anxiety and trauma in children ages 5-17 years old. Nicole enjoys exploring treatment options with her client's and their parents so they can make informed decisions about what is right for them.
Nicole Robbins is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner whose primary focus is resilience in children and adolescents. She specializes in medication management of ADHD, depression, anxiety and trauma in children ages 5-17 years old. Nicole enjoys exploring treatment options with her client's and their parents so they can make informed decisions about what is right for them.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c2d4264-379a-4b33-8892-1a162fd059f4/1/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of DeBalzo Elgudin Levine Risen - DeBalzo, Elgudin, Levine, Risen LLC, MD, PhD, CNS, LPCC, LISW-S, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44df01e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
DeBalzo, Elgudin, Levine, Risen LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, CNS, LPCC, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
We are a comprehensive psychiatric and mental health practice offering a wide spectrum of evidence-based therapies. We provide services to children/adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our services include psychiatric evaluation and medication management, individual psychotherapy, couples and family therapy, psychological testing, genomic testing for medication sensitivity, and evaluation and therapy for sexual and gender-related concerns. We offer ADHD assessment with the QbTest which is a FDA cleared computer based objective test.
We are a comprehensive psychiatric and mental health practice offering a wide spectrum of evidence-based therapies. We provide services to children/adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our services include psychiatric evaluation and medication management, individual psychotherapy, couples and family therapy, psychological testing, genomic testing for medication sensitivity, and evaluation and therapy for sexual and gender-related concerns. We offer ADHD assessment with the QbTest which is a FDA cleared computer based objective test.
![Photo of James Srp, CNP, CNS, LICDC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69d200f0-eaad-45c6-829e-5f84fd900ed7/1/320x400.jpeg)
James Srp has been working in the field of addictions for the past 30 years. He was most recently a nurse practitioner at Addiction Recovery Services of University Hospitals of Cleveland, a program he helped develop in 2004 after an 18 year tenure as a staff nurse, followed by service as a clinical nurse specialist for the Cleveland Clinic Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center. He holds a master's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University, a master's degree in nursing from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), and a bachelor's degree in nursing from Ursuline College.
James Srp has been working in the field of addictions for the past 30 years. He was most recently a nurse practitioner at Addiction Recovery Services of University Hospitals of Cleveland, a program he helped develop in 2004 after an 18 year tenure as a staff nurse, followed by service as a clinical nurse specialist for the Cleveland Clinic Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center. He holds a master's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University, a master's degree in nursing from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), and a bachelor's degree in nursing from Ursuline College.
![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 Shulammite Fanegan - FIT-Mind Mental Health Practice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b2ef796-75c2-4e51-b213-c7bb947e863c/1/320x400.jpeg)
FIT-Mind Mental Health Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235 (Online Only)
Fit-Mind Mental Health Practice is a health care practice established by Shulammite Fanegan, a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. At Fit-Mind Mental Health Practice, we are committed to quality, compassionate, and holistic mental health care delivery to the residents of Central Ohio. We help individuals with a range of common mental health issues, including individuals struggling with substance abuse. After gathering information at your first visit, you will be advised on how best to manage the symptoms you are experiencing. Either with medication and/or therapy or referral for diagnostic tests.
Fit-Mind Mental Health Practice is a health care practice established by Shulammite Fanegan, a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. At Fit-Mind Mental Health Practice, we are committed to quality, compassionate, and holistic mental health care delivery to the residents of Central Ohio. We help individuals with a range of common mental health issues, including individuals struggling with substance abuse. After gathering information at your first visit, you will be advised on how best to manage the symptoms you are experiencing. Either with medication and/or therapy or referral for diagnostic tests.
![Photo of Donna Moeller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5195696-cc9b-4695-8b55-dbfbd036b228/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
![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.
Joseph Keppler has been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in the Greater Cleveland area for over five years. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College and completed his graduate studies at Kent State University. Joe is committed to ensuring his patients feel supported, respected and valued in their mental health journey. In his free time, Joe enjoys hiking the national parks, skiing, gardening, and cuddling with his two wiener dogs. Areas of expertise include: Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, OCD and LGBTQ+ Issues.
Joseph Keppler has been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in the Greater Cleveland area for over five years. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College and completed his graduate studies at Kent State University. Joe is committed to ensuring his patients feel supported, respected and valued in their mental health journey. In his free time, Joe enjoys hiking the national parks, skiing, gardening, and cuddling with his two wiener dogs. Areas of expertise include: Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, OCD and LGBTQ+ Issues.
![Photo of Amanda Lambert - Amanda Lambert at Revive Counseling and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6be8f41b-bc2d-4827-a40d-6f92e3a70592/2/320x400.png)
Amanda Lambert at Revive Counseling and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky River, OH 44116
Hi! My name is Amanda! I am committed to helping improve the mental health of my patients through both medication management and therapeutic intervention. My approach to mental health treatment focuses on treating each patient as an individual by diving into their personal history, concerns with medication, and goals of treatment to improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
Hi! My name is Amanda! I am committed to helping improve the mental health of my patients through both medication management and therapeutic intervention. My approach to mental health treatment focuses on treating each patient as an individual by diving into their personal history, concerns with medication, and goals of treatment to improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
![Photo of Dr. Elif Yilmaz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/920c9c69-bc5c-4555-a771-703a38a9483e/1/320x400.png)
Dr Yilmaz has expertise in treating a variety of psychiatric conditions including: Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic disorder, Post-traumatic stress Disorder Obsessive compulsive disorder Grief, traumatic loss, and other adjustment reaction Bipolar disorder Post-Partum Depression Psychotic disorders, Immigrant/Refugee Mental Health Care Sleep Disorders and Postpartum depression/Anxiety.
Dr Yilmaz has expertise in treating a variety of psychiatric conditions including: Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic disorder, Post-traumatic stress Disorder Obsessive compulsive disorder Grief, traumatic loss, and other adjustment reaction Bipolar disorder Post-Partum Depression Psychotic disorders, Immigrant/Refugee Mental Health Care Sleep Disorders and Postpartum depression/Anxiety.
![Photo of Melanie Wolf - Melanie Wolf at Revive Counseling and Wellness, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91e8d715-5fb6-4042-b714-2d66daa5c832/2/320x400.png)
Melanie Wolf at Revive Counseling and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky River, OH 44116
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to adolescents and adults. With a focus on evidence-based treatment, I specialize in managing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, prenatal and antenatal mental health issues, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). My holistic, patient-centered approach ensures personalized care tailored to your unique needs, combining medication management and psychotherapy.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to adolescents and adults. With a focus on evidence-based treatment, I specialize in managing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, prenatal and antenatal mental health issues, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). My holistic, patient-centered approach ensures personalized care tailored to your unique needs, combining medication management and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Summer Lawson - Summer, Psyched, PsychedCbus via Grow Therapy, MSN BS, MSW BA, LISWd, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95435c29-7c57-4ecc-8aa3-2fae7c874029/2/320x400.jpeg)
Summer, Psyched, PsychedCbus via Grow Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN BS, MSW BA, LISWd, APRNCNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44114 (Online Only)
Hi, I am Summer, your new psychiatric mental health provider, therapist, counselor, and coach. Congratulations, you are here! Get ready to get PSYCHED, because you have navigated yourself to the right place. You want to re-ignite that passion. Whether you are an executive professional, a medical practitioner, SAHM, career academic, in between life phases, or … As person who has realized life is not what it can be anymore, let’s work together and get that drive back. Know, right now you are doing the best you can and “go you” for recognizing you have the potential to do it more efficiently. Work smarter, not harder as they say.
Hi, I am Summer, your new psychiatric mental health provider, therapist, counselor, and coach. Congratulations, you are here! Get ready to get PSYCHED, because you have navigated yourself to the right place. You want to re-ignite that passion. Whether you are an executive professional, a medical practitioner, SAHM, career academic, in between life phases, or … As person who has realized life is not what it can be anymore, let’s work together and get that drive back. Know, right now you are doing the best you can and “go you” for recognizing you have the potential to do it more efficiently. Work smarter, not harder as they say.
![Photo of Erin Miller, PMHNP, APRN , MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d21f629c-be10-4cce-bed8-1d92ecc028ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN , MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Albany, OH 43054 (Online Only)
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
Erin Miller believes in a holistic treatment approach to provide a positive atmosphere for mental health. She is dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with patients. Erin has been practicing via telemedicine since 2019 and treats patients across the lifespan. She is committed to providing access for mental health services for all and has years of experience in treating varying mental health disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia. Erin also specializes in pediatric patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder.
![Photo of Lisa O'Shaughnessy, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de56472a-275b-4484-97b8-1163107841eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa O'Shaughnessy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, OH 44709 (Online Only)
Sometimes, you get so busy taking care of everything, everyone else, that you, well, fall to pieces. When you feel like you are too tired, you have no energy left, and you just cannot keep going like this... we might be just right to work together!
Sometimes, you get so busy taking care of everything, everyone else, that you, well, fall to pieces. When you feel like you are too tired, you have no energy left, and you just cannot keep going like this... we might be just right to work together!
![Photo of Michele Cash, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b92189e1-2f75-42ea-a3fc-6532444ba198/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michele Cash is a Doctorally-Prepared Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist And Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She earned a DNP at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Cash has more than two decades treating children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan in inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. She has extensive experience treating the full spectrum of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychotic conditions.
Dr. Michele Cash is a Doctorally-Prepared Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist And Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She earned a DNP at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Cash has more than two decades treating children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan in inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. She has extensive experience treating the full spectrum of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychotic conditions.
![Photo of Madia Pewu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1049b052-acc9-478c-ae14-e1970dff9388/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madia Pewu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 (Online Only)
Madia Pewu is dual board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Licensed in Ohio, Madia has over 23 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. She obtained her bachelor's of nursing degree from Cleveland State University, her master's degree from United States University, and her post-master's certificate from Purdue University Global. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Trained in medication management and therapy, Madia provides therapy sessions via video for adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Madia Pewu is dual board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Licensed in Ohio, Madia has over 23 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. She obtained her bachelor's of nursing degree from Cleveland State University, her master's degree from United States University, and her post-master's certificate from Purdue University Global. She is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Trained in medication management and therapy, Madia provides therapy sessions via video for adolescents, adults, and seniors.
See more therapy options for Mount Vernon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mount Vernon, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Mount Vernon, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Substance Use |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Mount Vernon, OH see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mount Vernon?
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.