Psychiatrists in Rootstown, OH
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62f1af20-520f-425b-9698-e89dc2e44b6d/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rootstown, OH 44272 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/810c7487-c06c-479c-91ba-a7afbb08d306/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ravenna, OH 44266 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of Tiffani Gallimore, APN, DEA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d825b343-a9d6-409d-ba5f-7f13c20d30d5/1/320x400.png)
Tiffani Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, DEA
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44240 (Online Only)
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
You're not alone in this journey. If you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, or mood/personality disorders, I understand. You seek understanding and relief, longing for peace of mind and a path to healing. You want someone who respects your journey, validates your struggles, and offers compassionate guidance towards a brighter future.
![Photo of Angela R Combs, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cffcb6d-1cf7-46b2-ab32-1b274f69cdf5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela R Combs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mogadore, OH 44260 (Online Only)
Hello! Book with me now through my website! I am a medication provider. I am excited to meet you and looking forward to the opportunity to work with you! I believe care is unique to each person and I believe that you deserve the privacy and respect you want. I know that sometimes it is overwhelming to speak to a new person or to tell your story over and over. I know that there are parts of your story that are not my business to ask. When we meet, I will ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing, how long the symptoms have lasted, and if there is a family history of people with these symptoms. Come as you are, let's talk.
Hello! Book with me now through my website! I am a medication provider. I am excited to meet you and looking forward to the opportunity to work with you! I believe care is unique to each person and I believe that you deserve the privacy and respect you want. I know that sometimes it is overwhelming to speak to a new person or to tell your story over and over. I know that there are parts of your story that are not my business to ask. When we meet, I will ask you about the symptoms you are experiencing, how long the symptoms have lasted, and if there is a family history of people with these symptoms. Come as you are, let's talk.
![Photo of Jennifer Smith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6f20335-9c8d-4bb3-9fdd-c25c8ad4974d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ravenna, OH 44266 (Online Only)
An ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am experienced in all aspects of mental health and specialize in psychiatric medication management.
An ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am experienced in all aspects of mental health and specialize in psychiatric medication management.
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43b2cb3f-93ba-4483-a89b-3df498b7b4c9/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atwater, OH 44201 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of Enestine Tasong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe0423fb-86cc-424e-aa27-2190ca1d756e/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP), psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and certified DOT provider. She has over 20 years of excellent, high-quality healthcare experience. She has worked in multiple settings, including long-term care, home care, primary care, psychiatric care clinics, insurance, urgent care, hospice, and an inpatient behavioral hospital.
Dr. Ernestine Tasong is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP), psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and certified DOT provider. She has over 20 years of excellent, high-quality healthcare experience. She has worked in multiple settings, including long-term care, home care, primary care, psychiatric care clinics, insurance, urgent care, hospice, and an inpatient behavioral hospital.
![Photo of Terri Mcnatt, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c258f7e5-25bc-4bb0-b0b9-3af1acc9fb0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 20 years of experience in mental health care. I possess a strong background in nursing and a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients through evidence-based practice and empathetic care.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 20 years of experience in mental health care. I possess a strong background in nursing and a deep commitment to improving the lives of my patients through evidence-based practice and empathetic care.
![Photo of Jennifer Foresman - Balance Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9c1c86f-9dcc-4854-b505-11d44013646e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44240 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a provider who will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges? At Balance Psychiatric Services, we understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
Are you looking for a provider who will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges? At Balance Psychiatric Services, we understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
![Photo of Ashley Brugmann, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/299fdf2b-d40d-4cc1-9219-58f2e17baa1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Brugmann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ravenna, OH 44266 (Online Only)
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health. She excels at building strong patient relationships and creating individualized, evidence-based care plans. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys exploring new places, hiking, reading, and indulging in her love for art and interior design. For exceptional mental health care, Ashley Brugmann is your trusted partner on the journey to wellness.
A dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 15 years of healthcare experience. With a solid foundation from Ohio University and invaluable experience at University Hospitals, Ashley blends her medical expertise with a deep passion for mental health. She excels at building strong patient relationships and creating individualized, evidence-based care plans. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys exploring new places, hiking, reading, and indulging in her love for art and interior design. For exceptional mental health care, Ashley Brugmann is your trusted partner on the journey to wellness.
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/857b5dcb-8785-4856-af91-3d0bdaee03a2/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kent, OH 44240 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a66de64a-5da0-4a6f-a6e1-8578abb14b1e/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kent, OH 44243 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb05bbd9-70b9-431e-9da7-ad99730189c4/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mogadore, OH 44260
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Danny Miller, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97a37d5e-1cfd-4254-baa8-1e73590523f3/1/320x400.png)
Danny Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Avon Lake, OH 44012 (Online Only)
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but you are not the rain (Matt Haig). Danny is, above all, fully engaged in optimizing your well-being. He believes it is crucial to be totally engaged in patient interactions to really connect with you and provide the best care possible. When you see Danny for medication management, you have his undivided attention. As a patient-centered prescriber, he emphasizes practical, positive medical outcomes.
![Photo of Cheryl D Wills, MD, DLFAPA, ACPsych, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0a0fad6-62c5-449f-8bbe-9e12c9e7a0dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified general and child psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. I will collaborate with you to reduce symptoms, provide tools for emotional self-care and improve your quality of life. I help children and adolescents with learning, school, self-esteem, mood and behavioral concerns. I also assist youths who are transitioning to adulthood. I collaborate with adults under age 55 (at the time of the first appointment) who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and developmental disorders when there is a good fit. I enjoy working with people of all faiths, cultures and gender identities.
I am a board-certified general and child psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. I will collaborate with you to reduce symptoms, provide tools for emotional self-care and improve your quality of life. I help children and adolescents with learning, school, self-esteem, mood and behavioral concerns. I also assist youths who are transitioning to adulthood. I collaborate with adults under age 55 (at the time of the first appointment) who have anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and developmental disorders when there is a good fit. I enjoy working with people of all faiths, cultures and gender identities.
![Photo of Dr. Justin Hendricks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f2a449c-307a-46d3-9e7a-e8c1f894d472/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Justin Hendricks
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44114 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Justin Hendricks, and my practice is Mirror Health, a virtual psychiatry clinic in Ohio. As a Christian provider, my ideal client seeks a holistic, faith-integrated approach to mental health. They may face anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and value the integration of physical, spiritual, and social well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes but need guidance to harness their strengths and set achievable goals. I provide a supportive environment that reflects their commitment to overall well-being, helping them move forward with a personalized, integrative plan.
My name is Dr. Justin Hendricks, and my practice is Mirror Health, a virtual psychiatry clinic in Ohio. As a Christian provider, my ideal client seeks a holistic, faith-integrated approach to mental health. They may face anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions, and value the integration of physical, spiritual, and social well-being. They are motivated to make positive changes but need guidance to harness their strengths and set achievable goals. I provide a supportive environment that reflects their commitment to overall well-being, helping them move forward with a personalized, integrative plan.
![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 Ndematelen Asong, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97770b65-0f63-4a01-80fe-2abda8dad6ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ndematelen Asong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44113 (Online Only)
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at the Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.
Ndematelen Asong is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has been in healthcare since 2002. She started as nurse aide and worked her way up by educating herself and advancing in her career. She obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Ohio Technical College and a bachelor's degree in nursing at the Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.
![Photo of Linda Cunningham, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a91f934-0105-45e6-b7d5-4473db0439d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in adult psychiatry and addictions. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Akron. I have a wide variety of experience in the mental health field including both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, inpatient psychiatric consultation, psychiatric emergency medicine, geriatric psychiatry and addictions.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in adult psychiatry and addictions. I completed both my undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Akron. I have a wide variety of experience in the mental health field including both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, inpatient psychiatric consultation, psychiatric emergency medicine, geriatric psychiatry and addictions.
![Photo of Christine Pillitiere, PMHMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20e5e023-5d4d-4dd7-bebd-e7cfa3913420/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Pillitiere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44321 (Online Only)
Christine is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in pediatric and adult psychiatric care. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings as Nurse Practitioner, with 18 years of experience as a registered nurse in several specialties. Christine was a recipient of the DAISY Award in March 2019. Christine is dedicated to the care that she provides to her patients, and cultivates a safe and welcoming environment for all.
Christine is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in pediatric and adult psychiatric care. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings as Nurse Practitioner, with 18 years of experience as a registered nurse in several specialties. Christine was a recipient of the DAISY Award in March 2019. Christine is dedicated to the care that she provides to her patients, and cultivates a safe and welcoming environment for all.
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Rootstown, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Rootstown, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Rootstown, OH see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Rootstown?
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.