Psychiatrists in Simmes Township, OH
![Photo of Calli Hall, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/876dc094-0bd7-4d03-addb-cd8fbbeaba1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, men’s and women’s issues, psychosis/schizophrenia, sleep disorders/insomnia, and grief, Calli is dedicated to helping her clients achieve optimal mental wellness. She is particularly passionate about addressing the mental health needs of individuals with medical comorbidities, including those with oncology, cardiology, and pulmonology issues. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other nonpharmacological interventions, Calli empowers her patients to manage psychiatric symptoms effectively.
Specializing in anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, men’s and women’s issues, psychosis/schizophrenia, sleep disorders/insomnia, and grief, Calli is dedicated to helping her clients achieve optimal mental wellness. She is particularly passionate about addressing the mental health needs of individuals with medical comorbidities, including those with oncology, cardiology, and pulmonology issues. Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other nonpharmacological interventions, Calli empowers her patients to manage psychiatric symptoms effectively.
![Photo of Adeline Mangwa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3664a1a0-9bd3-4726-a92f-be18a4e2934a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adeline Mangwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Simmes Township, OH 45140 (Online Only)
Life can be very stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it leaves us feeling sad, depressed, anxious and scared. Your mental health is our priority. Adeline is a board-certified PMHNP and suboxone certified, with 15 years plus working in the mental health field.
Life can be very stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it leaves us feeling sad, depressed, anxious and scared. Your mental health is our priority. Adeline is a board-certified PMHNP and suboxone certified, with 15 years plus working in the mental health field.
![Photo of Meagan Hawkins, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d1b7e3c-b69a-42e3-8d80-79033d64be5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meagan Hawkins is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her master's degree in nursing from Walden University and has been working in outpatient settings providing care to adolescents and adults. She is certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Current MAT certification for Suboxone and Methadone use. Her specialty areas include depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and substance use disorders.
Meagan Hawkins is a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her master's degree in nursing from Walden University and has been working in outpatient settings providing care to adolescents and adults. She is certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Current MAT certification for Suboxone and Methadone use. Her specialty areas include depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and substance use disorders.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Vincent Bett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd8918e-bb0e-4980-84bb-ebee475f5aee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vincent is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep passion for improving mental health outcomes. I specialized in mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Opiod use Disorders.
Vincent is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep passion for improving mental health outcomes. I specialized in mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Opiod use Disorders.
![Photo of 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 Megan Faulkner, MSPA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60417264-e6cb-4b61-ba7e-5ea6a0754ae3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Faulkner
Physician Assistant, MSPA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loveland, OH 45140 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Megan. I am a nationally certified Physician Assistant with a profound interest in mental health. Growing up in a rural community with limited access to mental health support, I've developed a deep understanding of the crucial role mental health services play in transforming lives. With a focus on managing conditions such as adolescent and adult depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and ADHD, my approach is to educate and help manage your most distressing symptoms.
Hi, I'm Megan. I am a nationally certified Physician Assistant with a profound interest in mental health. Growing up in a rural community with limited access to mental health support, I've developed a deep understanding of the crucial role mental health services play in transforming lives. With a focus on managing conditions such as adolescent and adult depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and ADHD, my approach is to educate and help manage your most distressing symptoms.
![Photo of 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 Dipika Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6e8245a-fba0-4751-b6ee-45108a34da87/1/320x400.jpeg)
I received my medical degree from Gujarat University, and completed residency in psychiatry at Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago. Prior to my work in psychiatry, I worked in private practice and as an assistant professor in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have been practicing for over 25 years in the Cincinnati area and have experience with diverse populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I keep current with new advances in medicine and use evidence-based guidelines for treatment, but am also constantly learning from my patients.
I received my medical degree from Gujarat University, and completed residency in psychiatry at Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago. Prior to my work in psychiatry, I worked in private practice and as an assistant professor in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have been practicing for over 25 years in the Cincinnati area and have experience with diverse populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I keep current with new advances in medicine and use evidence-based guidelines for treatment, but am also constantly learning from my patients.
![Photo of Reyna Gilmore - A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services, MD, LSW, LISW, LPCC, LPCC-S, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2ecb1fb-d8fa-4d68-b523-cb2efa131a83/3/320x400.jpeg)
A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD, LSW, LISW, LPCC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040
We are a faith-based practice. We help individuals with the daily stress of life. This includes the outcome of depression, anxiety, and mood swings
We are a faith-based practice. We help individuals with the daily stress of life. This includes the outcome of depression, anxiety, and mood swings
![Photo of Richard Rutz, RN, MSN, ARNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46aa2ab3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Rutz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, ARNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241
I've been a practicing psychiatric nurse since 1994 and as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2005. Many areas of treatment have included mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD/trauma related issues and eating disorders. Working at many different levels of care, including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient has allowed me to see mental health at a variety of intensities. I believe in the motivation of the individual and integrating with their health care team to allow the individual to function at the highest level. We are using Zoom to provide quality and safe tele-health sessions.
I've been a practicing psychiatric nurse since 1994 and as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2005. Many areas of treatment have included mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD/trauma related issues and eating disorders. Working at many different levels of care, including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient has allowed me to see mental health at a variety of intensities. I believe in the motivation of the individual and integrating with their health care team to allow the individual to function at the highest level. We are using Zoom to provide quality and safe tele-health sessions.
![Photo of George Andrew Darling, CNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87c0bd2b-f7c7-4852-9e44-2a93d6817043/3/320x400.jpeg)
George Andrew Darling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!
I diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions in a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment. In some cases, I may provide some adjunct, but limited Individual Therapy. The thing I want you to most understand - there is hope. I am a big proponent of helping clients see the end-goal of mental health treatment - to feel and function better. There are two things a client must do to accomplish this goal. One, effective therapy; and two, the right mental health medication(s). And in case you are wondering - yes, I believe you are normal!
![Photo of Crystal Ravenel Farrell - A Crystal Mind, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d5a2697-173b-4da0-af0d-d39428049d03/3/320x400.jpeg)
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
I have developed a reputation for strong diagnostic skills and thorough understanding of treatment options, based on evidence and experience. I genuinely connect with my patients and try to earn their trust. I feel comfortable with all adults and have extra interest in senior care, providing services in office and long term care facilities.. But I love taking care of younger adults as well, late high school and beyond. I have been frequently recognized by my physician peers as a "Top Doctor" in the Cincinnati area through the years.
I have developed a reputation for strong diagnostic skills and thorough understanding of treatment options, based on evidence and experience. I genuinely connect with my patients and try to earn their trust. I feel comfortable with all adults and have extra interest in senior care, providing services in office and long term care facilities.. But I love taking care of younger adults as well, late high school and beyond. I have been frequently recognized by my physician peers as a "Top Doctor" in the Cincinnati area through the years.
![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 Teresa Anderson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e69a9ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat adults seeking assistance for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I provide compassionate care for people who are in need of counseling during difficult transitions. I also assist people who have long-standing problems with relationships and struggle with coping skills. I have a particular interest in post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety. I'm trained in both psychopharmacologic treatment and psychodynamic psychotherapy. I believe in the healing power of understanding one's own mind, which is why I do not provide CBT, as I believe it is a short-term behavioral solution to an underlying problem of which needs to be understood.
I treat adults seeking assistance for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I provide compassionate care for people who are in need of counseling during difficult transitions. I also assist people who have long-standing problems with relationships and struggle with coping skills. I have a particular interest in post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety. I'm trained in both psychopharmacologic treatment and psychodynamic psychotherapy. I believe in the healing power of understanding one's own mind, which is why I do not provide CBT, as I believe it is a short-term behavioral solution to an underlying problem of which needs to be understood.
![Photo of Jaclyn Lanham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/230e7250-ff86-49f5-ae74-9fcfe000ef18/2/320x400.png)
Also, I am able to schedule out for follow-ups and see individuals as soon as 7-14 days (not a long wait at all). If urgent, please go to the nearest Emergency Room or call 911. If there are billing questions or concerns, reach out to Support during normal business hours, weekdays. If you need a follow-up, provide me with days of availability and blocks of time and we can coordinate an appointment. Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD. I also consider treating select ADHD
Also, I am able to schedule out for follow-ups and see individuals as soon as 7-14 days (not a long wait at all). If urgent, please go to the nearest Emergency Room or call 911. If there are billing questions or concerns, reach out to Support during normal business hours, weekdays. If you need a follow-up, provide me with days of availability and blocks of time and we can coordinate an appointment. Specialized treatment areas that I focus on are: depression, anxiety, social phobia/social anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, sleep difficulties/ PTSD nightmares, personality disorders such as OCD, BPD. I also consider treating select ADHD
![Photo of Jeremy Carpenter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56484df2-beb9-4fa5-bf80-fb053d2f5f07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carpenter has more than 12 years of experience in psychiatry with specialty in child and adolescent psychiatry. He earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at George Washington University in Washington, D. C. where he completed additional training in Health Policy and Advocacy. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus. In 2017, he was a finalist for the Cincinnati Business Courier's Healthcare Hero for improving the quality of Cincinnati healthcare through his patient care mission.
Dr. Carpenter has more than 12 years of experience in psychiatry with specialty in child and adolescent psychiatry. He earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at George Washington University in Washington, D. C. where he completed additional training in Health Policy and Advocacy. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus. In 2017, he was a finalist for the Cincinnati Business Courier's Healthcare Hero for improving the quality of Cincinnati healthcare through his patient care mission.
![Photo of Denise Dews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee8063aa-15d9-4837-a37c-5d611ccd3d3d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
![Photo of Bethany McCann, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/603923c0-30a5-4040-b912-621469000a31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany McCann is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. After obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Kent State University, she received her medical degree from Ohio Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. She then went on to complete her Psychiatry Residency training at The Ohio State University, where she served as a Chief Resident for two years. Following residency, Dr. McCann pursued an additional year of training through Ohio State, where she completed a Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship.
Bethany McCann is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. After obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Kent State University, she received her medical degree from Ohio Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. She then went on to complete her Psychiatry Residency training at The Ohio State University, where she served as a Chief Resident for two years. Following residency, Dr. McCann pursued an additional year of training through Ohio State, where she completed a Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship.
![Photo of Neema Mrisho, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d884dd23-854a-4488-8af7-13fb3a6e67a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Neema Mrisho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adolescents and adults. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families.
See more therapy options for Simmes Township
Nearby Searches for Simmes Township
- Blue Ash
- Cincinnati
- Fairfield
- Hamilton
- Lebanon
- Liberty Township
- Mason
- Middletown
- Milford
- Springboro
- Terrace Park
- West Chester
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Simmes Township, OH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Simmes Township, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Eating Disorders |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Simmes Township, OH see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Simmes Township?
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.