Psychiatrists in Oxford, OH
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78c73de2-6e98-48a0-80c4-d57845d25066/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Gerald Makobong, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfbeb172-7961-4e6e-8552-1080b0550743/2/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
![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 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
Oxford, OH 45056
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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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
Hamilton, OH 45013 (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 Sarah Martin, PMHNP, PMHNP-, APRN-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/104ef08f-1666-4aa5-ac06-7a1e466cbdfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMHNP-, APRN-C
Verified Verified
Hamilton, OH 45011
Sarah Martin is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2013. Sarah strives to offer a safe and trusting environment for her clients on their path to mental wellness and healing. You know your child best of all! In this spirit, Sarah offers a personalized and family-centered partnership to help clients reach their personal best. Sarah has more than 10 years of child/adolescent mental health experience in the outpatient and inpatient care settings, including Cincinnati Children's Hospital Division of Psychiatry and Rocking Horse Community Health Center.
Sarah Martin is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2013. Sarah strives to offer a safe and trusting environment for her clients on their path to mental wellness and healing. You know your child best of all! In this spirit, Sarah offers a personalized and family-centered partnership to help clients reach their personal best. Sarah has more than 10 years of child/adolescent mental health experience in the outpatient and inpatient care settings, including Cincinnati Children's Hospital Division of Psychiatry and Rocking Horse Community Health Center.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/816eef9e-d2fa-4270-833d-5fb6a148f87b/1/320x400.jpeg)
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (513) 540-2851 if you would like to set up an appointment.
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (513) 540-2851 if you would like to set up an appointment.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Joel Ellison, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b1e0fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both, I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both, I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
![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 Sheryl List, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b65bab7-911c-48a2-9d9d-288cc3aa45a8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sheryl List
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241 (Online Only)
I am a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in the nursing field 12 years. I have worked within a variety of areas including mental health, critical care, and emergency medicine. I can assist and coordinate with therapists to achieve optimal recovery from your psychiatric symptoms.
I am a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in the nursing field 12 years. I have worked within a variety of areas including mental health, critical care, and emergency medicine. I can assist and coordinate with therapists to achieve optimal recovery from your psychiatric symptoms.
![Photo of Dr. Olivetta Uradu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ec38bb-d7ef-4ec0-9112-dab257724dd7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
Safe Place Therapeutics LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, OH 45503
Are you having Mental Health issues including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, sleep issues? Are your struggling with Substance Abuse issues including by not limited Opioid use Disorder, Alcoholism. If so at Safe Place Therapeutics a Brick and Mortar Clinic we use a holistic approached as as foundation for our treatment modality.
Are you having Mental Health issues including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, sleep issues? Are your struggling with Substance Abuse issues including by not limited Opioid use Disorder, Alcoholism. If so at Safe Place Therapeutics a Brick and Mortar Clinic we use a holistic approached as as foundation for our treatment modality.
![Photo of Lady Crockett, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8d78ed0-6383-4c5b-bb9f-7cd75469ce2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lady Crockett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45220 (Online Only)
Having worked with a diverse population within the mental health area for the past 11 years, I provide a well rounded, thorough, concise and experienced approach whether the condition is a minor or acute mental health condition/illness. I provide my clients an individualized and wholistic approach when deciding treatment modalities. In my practice, I strive to have a positive and transformative impact on the lives of my clients. I enjoy seeing my clients grow in both their professional and personal lives once their mental health needs have been addressed.
Having worked with a diverse population within the mental health area for the past 11 years, I provide a well rounded, thorough, concise and experienced approach whether the condition is a minor or acute mental health condition/illness. I provide my clients an individualized and wholistic approach when deciding treatment modalities. In my practice, I strive to have a positive and transformative impact on the lives of my clients. I enjoy seeing my clients grow in both their professional and personal lives once their mental health needs have been addressed.
![Photo of Logan McGinty, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8680967-d8de-43e5-bd21-7eb84baef467/1/320x400.jpeg)
Logan McGinty is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. He attended undergraduate and graduate school at the Ohio State University. Logan sees his practice as a platform for a patient's personal growth. His practice combines a humanistic approach with evidence-based treatment. Each patient deserves an individualized approach to their care, taking into account their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. The clinical relationship is not only for mental health stabilization but for achieving optimal states of being. Outside of work, Logan enjoys lifting and wood working.
Logan McGinty is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. He attended undergraduate and graduate school at the Ohio State University. Logan sees his practice as a platform for a patient's personal growth. His practice combines a humanistic approach with evidence-based treatment. Each patient deserves an individualized approach to their care, taking into account their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. The clinical relationship is not only for mental health stabilization but for achieving optimal states of being. Outside of work, Logan enjoys lifting and wood working.
![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!
![Photo of Kelly Ausman, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70d5631d-9497-40ca-bd57-2cb1775b95b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or a personality disorder we all desire happy fulfilling lives. In order for us to get to a new place, there has to be a willingness and commitment to do the work. I will challenge you to spend your free-time differently. We will analyze what you choose to fill your thoughts with and the activities you currently engage in. What do you spend your money on? “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” For most of us the old adage "the pain of not changing has to be greater than the pain of changing” before we are ready to make a true commitment to healing.
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or a personality disorder we all desire happy fulfilling lives. In order for us to get to a new place, there has to be a willingness and commitment to do the work. I will challenge you to spend your free-time differently. We will analyze what you choose to fill your thoughts with and the activities you currently engage in. What do you spend your money on? “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” For most of us the old adage "the pain of not changing has to be greater than the pain of changing” before we are ready to make a true commitment to healing.
![Photo of Tyneah Morris, MSN, APRN, CNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d87b4038-f8c0-4365-b2bc-9caedc8a350e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tyneah Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
"There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." That is my mission statement and goal for all to understand that come in for help. Mental health is an important medical specialty, but is often overlooked. As a board- certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am trained to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of patients—such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or substance abuse disorders. My patients receive patient centered care with ongoing treatment plans that are adjusted and specifically customized according to the need.
"There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." That is my mission statement and goal for all to understand that come in for help. Mental health is an important medical specialty, but is often overlooked. As a board- certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner I am trained to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of patients—such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or substance abuse disorders. My patients receive patient centered care with ongoing treatment plans that are adjusted and specifically customized according to the need.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0479cd97-923c-4bd5-9d71-830c586b62ea/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Dale LaChance, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d5632af-f9c3-4961-b81c-5a5c11951c37/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dale LaChance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
![Photo of Mei Chiang - MC Psychiatry, LLC, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fcb63d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an MD from The Ohio State University and a PhD in cell and developmental biology. I have extensive training in psychotherapy for both adults and children. I have helped many patients achieve lasting, thorough changes toward a happy and fulfilling life. The issues include ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, paranoia, PTSD, and psychotic disorder. I treat my patients with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. My psychotherapy approaches include psychodynamic and supportive psychotherapy, CBT, and play therapy, whichever proves to be most appropriate and effective.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an MD from The Ohio State University and a PhD in cell and developmental biology. I have extensive training in psychotherapy for both adults and children. I have helped many patients achieve lasting, thorough changes toward a happy and fulfilling life. The issues include ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, paranoia, PTSD, and psychotic disorder. I treat my patients with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. My psychotherapy approaches include psychodynamic and supportive psychotherapy, CBT, and play therapy, whichever proves to be most appropriate and effective.
See more therapy options for Oxford
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oxford, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Oxford, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | Depression |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Sleep or Insomnia |
50% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
23 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Oxford, OH see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oxford?
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.