Psychiatrists in Dublin, OH

Photo of Sarah Ab (Reid) Red - Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, GAD, expert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, GAD, expert
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Seeking help is hard. At Breeze getting care is easy. — Immediate openings for new pts — Here skilled clinicians treat the mind while nurturing the spirit. We provide personalized care of the mind & body using a combination of medication, therapy, and coaching. Board certified specialists treat most major mental illnesses and symptoms, including chronic feelings of emptiness, sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, trauma, and sleep problems. Caring clinicians partner with patients to create custom treatment plans with patient-driven goals. First responders, veterans, single parents and shift workers with busy schedules can easily get care.
Seeking help is hard. At Breeze getting care is easy. — Immediate openings for new pts — Here skilled clinicians treat the mind while nurturing the spirit. We provide personalized care of the mind & body using a combination of medication, therapy, and coaching. Board certified specialists treat most major mental illnesses and symptoms, including chronic feelings of emptiness, sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, trauma, and sleep problems. Caring clinicians partner with patients to create custom treatment plans with patient-driven goals. First responders, veterans, single parents and shift workers with busy schedules can easily get care.
(740) 685-4720 View (740) 685-4720
Photo of Jordan Stafford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Stafford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
Now accepting new clients - no wait time. Jordan Stafford is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She brings 15 years of nursing experience to Ketamine Health and Wellness. With a background in critical care, she found a passion for mental health and helping others to lead happier, healthier lives. She is excited by the advances in psychiatric medicine and strives to offer the most effective treatments available, as part of a therapeutic and holistic approach. Jordan values every individual’s voice and unique story, and the opportunity to work together to create goals and achieve success.
Now accepting new clients - no wait time. Jordan Stafford is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She brings 15 years of nursing experience to Ketamine Health and Wellness. With a background in critical care, she found a passion for mental health and helping others to lead happier, healthier lives. She is excited by the advances in psychiatric medicine and strives to offer the most effective treatments available, as part of a therapeutic and holistic approach. Jordan values every individual’s voice and unique story, and the opportunity to work together to create goals and achieve success.
(380) 204-5389 View (380) 204-5389
Photo of Ivana Balic - Keystone Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Keystone Mental Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
Welcome to Keystone Mental Health (KMH)! We provide psychiatric services to adults, children and adolescents. KMH is a psychiatric medical practice consisting of Psychiatrists and Nurse Practitioners, with the main goal to provide client focused, collaborative, compassionate and up to date psychiatric care for clients of all backgrounds. The goal is to educate about various evidence-based options for patient treatment so that individuals can make an informed decision that is the most helpful to their needs.
(614) 820-5241 View (614) 820-5241
Photo of Dr. Megan Verlage, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Megan Verlage
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
Hello! My name is Dr. Megan Verlage and I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry. While I treat a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan in both women and men, my area of interest is in Women’s Mental Health. I have specialized training in helping with psychiatric needs related to pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, pre-menstrual syndromes, and peri-menopause. I created my practice so that I could give the type of individualized and specialized care I feel these delicate situations deserve. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.
Hello! My name is Dr. Megan Verlage and I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry. While I treat a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan in both women and men, my area of interest is in Women’s Mental Health. I have specialized training in helping with psychiatric needs related to pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, pre-menstrual syndromes, and peri-menopause. I created my practice so that I could give the type of individualized and specialized care I feel these delicate situations deserve. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.
(380) 333-5269 View (380) 333-5269
Photo of Larissa (Lacey) Mehling, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Larissa (Lacey) Mehling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Larissa Lacey Mehling is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Lacey has several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health NP, Lacey worked for many years on an inpatient child/adolescent psychiatry unit. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in Psychology from The Ohio State University and one in Nursing from Ashland University.
Larissa Lacey Mehling is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Lacey has several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health NP, Lacey worked for many years on an inpatient child/adolescent psychiatry unit. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in Psychology from The Ohio State University and one in Nursing from Ashland University.
(740) 841-1606 View (740) 841-1606
Photo of Holly Lecklider, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Lecklider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
I am committed to improving the quality of life for my patients by providing compassionate, inclusive, and high-quality psychiatric care using a person-centered and evidence-based approach to treatment.
I am committed to improving the quality of life for my patients by providing compassionate, inclusive, and high-quality psychiatric care using a person-centered and evidence-based approach to treatment.
(380) 227-3140 View (380) 227-3140
Photo of Scott Yoho, DO, Psychiatrist
Scott Yoho
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017  (Online Only)
No wait time for appointments - we believe patients deserve access to real time mental health care Did you know Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center treats patients 13 years of age and older? This age group is severely underserved in the mental health community, and our goal is to provide real time mental health care for all.  Online appointments available now for adolescents in need! Serving Ohio through the convenience of online appointments and a growing network of locations.
No wait time for appointments - we believe patients deserve access to real time mental health care Did you know Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center treats patients 13 years of age and older? This age group is severely underserved in the mental health community, and our goal is to provide real time mental health care for all.  Online appointments available now for adolescents in need! Serving Ohio through the convenience of online appointments and a growing network of locations.
(614) 682-2383 View (614) 682-2383
Photo of Scott Dean Yoho - Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center, DO, Psychiatrist
Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017  (Online Only)
No wait time for appointments - we believe patients deserve access to real time mental health care! Did you know Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center treats patients 13 years of age and older? This age group is severely underserved in the mental health community, and our goal is to provide real time mental health care for all. Online appointments available now for adolescents in need! Serving Ohio with the convenience of online appointments and a growing network of locations.
No wait time for appointments - we believe patients deserve access to real time mental health care! Did you know Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center treats patients 13 years of age and older? This age group is severely underserved in the mental health community, and our goal is to provide real time mental health care for all. Online appointments available now for adolescents in need! Serving Ohio with the convenience of online appointments and a growing network of locations.
(380) 207-0427 View (380) 207-0427
Photo of Sarah (Reid) Red Specializing In Anxiety, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah (Reid) Red Specializing In Anxiety
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Seeking help is hard. Here getting care is easy. - - Immediate openings for new patients - - Too often we are beaten down and we feel defeated, lose our self-confidence and our connection to others. It is important to me to restore that connection. I not only treat the mind - but also nurture the spirit - in a safe setting where you feel heard and receive compassionate, attentive care. Here you will have time to talk, and you will receive coaching and feedback from someone who listens and is invested in your success.
Seeking help is hard. Here getting care is easy. - - Immediate openings for new patients - - Too often we are beaten down and we feel defeated, lose our self-confidence and our connection to others. It is important to me to restore that connection. I not only treat the mind - but also nurture the spirit - in a safe setting where you feel heard and receive compassionate, attentive care. Here you will have time to talk, and you will receive coaching and feedback from someone who listens and is invested in your success.
(380) 600-9930 View (380) 600-9930
Photo of Adam Brandemihl - Buckeye Psychiatry, LLC, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Buckeye Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
(614) 944-8290 View (614) 944-8290
Photo of Sarah Rossetter - Sarah Rossetter, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Sarah Rossetter, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Unsure if medication is the right choice for you? Are you looking for a doctor who will truly listen and understand your needs? Dr. Rossetter combines a warm, compassionate interaction style with medical expertise to offer truly personalized care.
Unsure if medication is the right choice for you? Are you looking for a doctor who will truly listen and understand your needs? Dr. Rossetter combines a warm, compassionate interaction style with medical expertise to offer truly personalized care.
(614) 414-3423 View (614) 414-3423
Photo of Adam Scott Brandemihl, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Adam Scott Brandemihl
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
(614) 929-6617 View (614) 929-6617
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(380) 212-2412 View (380) 212-2412
Photo of Mike Tichy, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mike Tichy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
(380) 205-0323 View (380) 205-0323
Photo of Jenna Jacobs, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Jenna Jacobs
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
(740) 619-4219 View (740) 619-4219
Photo of Deana Batross, PMHNP, DNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deana Batross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Deana Batross. I have worked in health care in various capacities over the last 35 years, and advanced practice since 2004. This including cardiology, primary care, and mental health. I am also a professor of nursing at a local university teaching mental health at the graduate and undergraduate levels.
Hello, my name is Deana Batross. I have worked in health care in various capacities over the last 35 years, and advanced practice since 2004. This including cardiology, primary care, and mental health. I am also a professor of nursing at a local university teaching mental health at the graduate and undergraduate levels.
(740) 639-5265 View (740) 639-5265
Photo of Camille Combs, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Camille Combs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017  (Online Only)
Description “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light.” — Albus Dumbledore Hello, I am Camille and I want to say welcome! This is a huge accomplishment by taking the next step to a healthier you! It may feel scary just taking this step, however, the rewards of developing a healthier you are the most rewarding. And I am here to help in any way I can.
Description “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light.” — Albus Dumbledore Hello, I am Camille and I want to say welcome! This is a huge accomplishment by taking the next step to a healthier you! It may feel scary just taking this step, however, the rewards of developing a healthier you are the most rewarding. And I am here to help in any way I can.
(513) 951-8840 View (513) 951-8840
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(380) 333-5391 View (380) 333-5391
Photo of Anna Cherri, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anna Cherri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Anna Cherri is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ohio University. Anna comes from a very diverse background of caring for patients during periods of stability as well as crisis. She wants clients to know that their diagnosis is not as important as the whole person and their road to recovery and better living, however that may look. Anna never wants clients to feel as though there is a standard treatment protocol that she follows.
Anna Cherri is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ohio University. Anna comes from a very diverse background of caring for patients during periods of stability as well as crisis. She wants clients to know that their diagnosis is not as important as the whole person and their road to recovery and better living, however that may look. Anna never wants clients to feel as though there is a standard treatment protocol that she follows.
(380) 666-4575 View (380) 666-4575
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016  (Online Only)
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.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Dublin, OH

50+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Dublin, OH who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
96% Depression
77% Bipolar Disorder
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Trauma and PTSD
62% Medication Management
58% ADHD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Cigna and Evernorth
94% Aetna
89% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Dublin, OH see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Dublin?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.