Psychiatrists in Richfield, OH
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![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 Jen Foren - Prism Psychiatry, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02b56216-b314-470d-aea2-b401e2c7b1a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Prism Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223
We provide psychiatric mental health services including medication management to children, adolescents and adults suffering with issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and many more. We are accepting new patients and have very little wait time. We have compassionate and experienced providers that specialize to meet your specific needs - please let us know what you are wanting to be seen for at time of booking so we can match you with the most appropriate provider for you. Weekend and evening appointments available by request.
We provide psychiatric mental health services including medication management to children, adolescents and adults suffering with issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and many more. We are accepting new patients and have very little wait time. We have compassionate and experienced providers that specialize to meet your specific needs - please let us know what you are wanting to be seen for at time of booking so we can match you with the most appropriate provider for you. Weekend and evening appointments available by request.
![Photo of Steven Long, PHMNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2f2ddc2-e5e0-4d97-8ff2-5987e6a2fde8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steven Long PMHNP, BC graduated from Walden University with a master's degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric treatment. Steve has worked in this role for 1 year and previously has 3 years' experience as an RN on an acute care adult psychiatric facility. In the past year Steve has worked with individuals ranging from 15 to 92 years of age, offering a broad-spectrum of care. Individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism among other mental health ailments can be confident in the care provided by Steve.
Steven Long PMHNP, BC graduated from Walden University with a master's degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric treatment. Steve has worked in this role for 1 year and previously has 3 years' experience as an RN on an acute care adult psychiatric facility. In the past year Steve has worked with individuals ranging from 15 to 92 years of age, offering a broad-spectrum of care. Individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism among other mental health ailments can be confident in the care provided by Steve.
![Photo of Sarah Swiger, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c45dc52-c00d-4e92-ae74-fc57e5ad6f86/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Stronger Minds Mental Health and Wellness, LLC. My name is Sarah and I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
Welcome to Stronger Minds Mental Health and Wellness, LLC. My name is Sarah and I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
![Photo of Dewan E Smith-Williams, MSN, PMHAPRN, CNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/784a57e0-78c5-4ed7-b6f1-6ca7fe51e10e/6/320x400.jpeg)
Dewan E Smith-Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHAPRN, CNP-BC
Verified Verified
Fairlawn, OH 44333
Lajeans will educate and provide awareness to the community to improve mental health outcomes crossing all age groups. Lajeans will work to provide a safe, comfortable, nonjudgmental environment that will enhance mental health treatment needed by many. Historically, mental illness was not addressed as people were afraid or ashamed of the stigma surrounding mental illness. Lajeans will provide treatment in a HIPPA compliant environment. Our goal is to expand our mission and values in the community through clients sharing and advising others of the excellent service received and referring friends, family and others
Lajeans will educate and provide awareness to the community to improve mental health outcomes crossing all age groups. Lajeans will work to provide a safe, comfortable, nonjudgmental environment that will enhance mental health treatment needed by many. Historically, mental illness was not addressed as people were afraid or ashamed of the stigma surrounding mental illness. Lajeans will provide treatment in a HIPPA compliant environment. Our goal is to expand our mission and values in the community through clients sharing and advising others of the excellent service received and referring friends, family and others
![Photo of Marissa Ragon, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef4b9bae-14e9-485d-9415-b029ad2806ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marissa Ragon is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over a decade of experience working in the field of psychiatry and mental health. Marissa completed her undergraduate and graduate degree studies at The University of Akron. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing in 2008, with the intent of becoming a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Marissa graduated with honors in May of year 2013 with a Master of Science degree in Nursing. Her professional clinical practice as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner officially began in July of year 2013.
Marissa Ragon is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over a decade of experience working in the field of psychiatry and mental health. Marissa completed her undergraduate and graduate degree studies at The University of Akron. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing in 2008, with the intent of becoming a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Marissa graduated with honors in May of year 2013 with a Master of Science degree in Nursing. Her professional clinical practice as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner officially began in July of year 2013.
![Photo of Eric Adams - Lee Side Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52636cd1-d8df-4eec-9d9b-268db4738310/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I have been in mental health care for almost 15 years in a variety of settings. The bulk of my experience has been in the high acuity setting of Emergency Psychiatry. I have a passion for empathic care that seeks to understand and help those dealing with not just mental illness, but the stress of life in general. I treat individuals of all ages and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. I am also particularly passionate about providing care for psychotic and psychosis related disorders, as well as working with sexual identity and gender identity concerns.
Hi! I have been in mental health care for almost 15 years in a variety of settings. The bulk of my experience has been in the high acuity setting of Emergency Psychiatry. I have a passion for empathic care that seeks to understand and help those dealing with not just mental illness, but the stress of life in general. I treat individuals of all ages and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. I am also particularly passionate about providing care for psychotic and psychosis related disorders, as well as working with sexual identity and gender identity concerns.
![Photo of Chris Mccourt, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d3cf40-cb10-463f-9887-2decc423ed77/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher likes to use his knowledge, empathy, and understanding to help formulate a plan with you to tackle your mental health condition. Christopher feels like he does more than just prescribe medications. He tries to tailor each session to meet the person’s needs by also incorporating some therapy into the session as well as discussing if medications are an option. His goal is to stabilize your mental health and continue working hard with you until that goal is obtained.
Christopher likes to use his knowledge, empathy, and understanding to help formulate a plan with you to tackle your mental health condition. Christopher feels like he does more than just prescribe medications. He tries to tailor each session to meet the person’s needs by also incorporating some therapy into the session as well as discussing if medications are an option. His goal is to stabilize your mental health and continue working hard with you until that goal is obtained.
![Photo of Nikki Glass, NP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ac8fba2-59eb-4693-bc3a-cf9fdc8fe028/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Glass is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience treating mood and anxiety disorders across the lifespan. She received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Kent State University and a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Akron. Nikki employs a blend of psychiatric medication management and holistic approaches to help people alleviate mental health symptoms and lead a more meaningful life. Beyond her profession, Nikki finds joy in family time, nature, home renovations, gardening, and indulging in a compelling Netflix show.
Nikki Glass is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience treating mood and anxiety disorders across the lifespan. She received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Kent State University and a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Akron. Nikki employs a blend of psychiatric medication management and holistic approaches to help people alleviate mental health symptoms and lead a more meaningful life. Beyond her profession, Nikki finds joy in family time, nature, home renovations, gardening, and indulging in a compelling Netflix show.
![Photo of Aricka Kesic-Sellers - Psych Foundations, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2eb6989-2920-4b46-bb17-aa03df097331/2/320x400.png)
We've seen too many people struggling with psychiatric problems receive poor care - or no care at all - because they can't afford or don't have access to proper treatment options. We know that you don't have to be rich or famous to get help when you need it most. And we want everyone in our community to know that they have options when it comes time for them or their loved ones to seek treatment for mental health issues.
We've seen too many people struggling with psychiatric problems receive poor care - or no care at all - because they can't afford or don't have access to proper treatment options. We know that you don't have to be rich or famous to get help when you need it most. And we want everyone in our community to know that they have options when it comes time for them or their loved ones to seek treatment for mental health issues.
![Photo of Rochelle L Tatarka, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cc851e6-5b73-49d3-99b8-546e6e479a48/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rochelle L Tatarka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fairlawn, OH 44333
My focus is to help individuals heal, recover, and become aware of their inner strengths. I provide a supportive environment, listen to your concerns, customize a treatment plan, and monitor progress for positive outcomes. I take pride in spending time with my patients, so you will never feel rushed or be seen by multiple providers. I treat a number of mental health concerns for patients 18 and up including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, stress, trauma, grief, loss, and more.
My focus is to help individuals heal, recover, and become aware of their inner strengths. I provide a supportive environment, listen to your concerns, customize a treatment plan, and monitor progress for positive outcomes. I take pride in spending time with my patients, so you will never feel rushed or be seen by multiple providers. I treat a number of mental health concerns for patients 18 and up including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, stress, trauma, grief, loss, and more.
![Photo of Sara Hong, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/433b5613-6f68-4625-803a-59341632ef6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Hong is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child and adolescent psychiatry. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northwestern University, her master's degree from Northern Illinois University and her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She served her general psychiatry residency and fellowship training at Thomas Jefferson University, where she was chief fellow. Dr. Hong is a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia, the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association.
Dr. Hong is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child and adolescent psychiatry. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northwestern University, her master's degree from Northern Illinois University and her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She served her general psychiatry residency and fellowship training at Thomas Jefferson University, where she was chief fellow. Dr. Hong is a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia, the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association.
![Photo of Austin Smith, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95d9ff31-2383-49c2-8f18-3baf6b814511/2/320x400.jpeg)
Austin Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairlawn, OH 44333
I am board certified in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan and offer medication management, initial consultations, follow up visit, psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and promoting a holistic approach to mental health treatment.
I am board certified in psychiatric mental health across the lifespan and offer medication management, initial consultations, follow up visit, psychoeducation, supportive therapy, and promoting a holistic approach to mental health treatment.
![Photo of Kamala Adury, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/068e6a80-9b50-4e0c-b771-dd1fc88a4dea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Clients come with come with mental health and/or sleep issues. The goal is an improved quality of life or rather a sense of wellbeing. If it is a major episode of depression or an episode of psychosis, the goal is remission and relapse prevention. It is a place where you can safely, reliably and productively simplify your complex pharmaceutical regimen. The approach to treatment is multidisciplinary and prescribing or deprescribing might be recommended (but not enforced). We offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Clients come with come with mental health and/or sleep issues. The goal is an improved quality of life or rather a sense of wellbeing. If it is a major episode of depression or an episode of psychosis, the goal is remission and relapse prevention. It is a place where you can safely, reliably and productively simplify your complex pharmaceutical regimen. The approach to treatment is multidisciplinary and prescribing or deprescribing might be recommended (but not enforced). We offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
![Photo of Christopher Smith, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8705561-d788-422b-837e-0853d37ce499/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44131
I am a dual licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) and Family Medicine (FNP). Prior to my work in psychiatry, I spent over 10 years working in a mix of emergency medicine, trauma care, urgent care and covering for primary care providers.
I am a dual licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner in both Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP) and Family Medicine (FNP). Prior to my work in psychiatry, I spent over 10 years working in a mix of emergency medicine, trauma care, urgent care and covering for primary care providers.
![Photo of Robert Ussai, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9c37aad-0875-4f50-b93e-9e9107988de4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Ussai is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. His previous experience includes work in hospital and community outpatient practice settings. He currently provides medication management for adults ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Robert Ussai is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. His previous experience includes work in hospital and community outpatient practice settings. He currently provides medication management for adults ages 18 to 64. His treatment areas of specialty include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5433bd7-ccb9-4654-8d23-2cf7cbe4e053/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Taylor Fredrickson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43c27cec-4238-4b6a-9559-cb5f4ea6c98a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Taylor Fredrickson is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2019. He has a Bachelor of Science from Kent State University, a Doctor of Medicine from Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University, did his Residency in Psychiatry at SUMMA Health System/Cleveland Clinic Akron General, and was Chief Resident at SUMMA Health System/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Psychiatry Residency Program. Dr. Fredrickson believes in medication management and individual psychotherapy for any/all psychiatric conditions. His psychotherapy style is a blend of personal centered therapy and experiential therapy.
Dr. Taylor Fredrickson is a Psychiatrist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2019. He has a Bachelor of Science from Kent State University, a Doctor of Medicine from Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University, did his Residency in Psychiatry at SUMMA Health System/Cleveland Clinic Akron General, and was Chief Resident at SUMMA Health System/Cleveland Clinic Akron General Psychiatry Residency Program. Dr. Fredrickson believes in medication management and individual psychotherapy for any/all psychiatric conditions. His psychotherapy style is a blend of personal centered therapy and experiential therapy.
![Photo of Sharell Thaxton - Synergy Therapeutics Health & Wellness, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b35fac0-a697-458e-9a00-f493c5bb252a/3/320x400.png)
Synergy Therapeutics Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Macedonia, OH 44056 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Sharell, a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve optimal mental well-being through a holistic and personalized approach. With a firm belief in the profound impact of lifestyle modifications, supplements, medication, and therapy on mental health, I am committed to guiding you towards effective solutions tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, I am here to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
Hello, I'm Sharell, a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve optimal mental well-being through a holistic and personalized approach. With a firm belief in the profound impact of lifestyle modifications, supplements, medication, and therapy on mental health, I am committed to guiding you towards effective solutions tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, I am here to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Richfield, OH
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How Psychiatrists in Richfield, OH see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Richfield?
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.