Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH
![Photo of Dr. Cole Upton - Upton Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9800516d-37c1-4555-af41-ab4f46dddcaa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cole Upton - Upton Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
A new approach to mental health that puts your wellness first. Dr. Upton has built his practice, Upton Wellness, in way that brings distinct and specific individualized care for each client. Holistic wellness refers to an approach to health that considers the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - rather than just a specific ailment or symptom. It involves addressing underlying causes of health issues and incorporating various therapies and practices, to achieve balance and harmony. Holistic wellness emphasizes the importance of prevention and self-care, empowering individuals to take an active role in their own health.
A new approach to mental health that puts your wellness first. Dr. Upton has built his practice, Upton Wellness, in way that brings distinct and specific individualized care for each client. Holistic wellness refers to an approach to health that considers the whole person - mind, body, and spirit - rather than just a specific ailment or symptom. It involves addressing underlying causes of health issues and incorporating various therapies and practices, to achieve balance and harmony. Holistic wellness emphasizes the importance of prevention and self-care, empowering individuals to take an active role in their own health.
![Photo of Amy Ogden, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a7cc29c-03cb-4d8b-9e7c-ff2a222d3bc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Ogden is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Master of Nursing degree from The Ohio State University, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Capital University. She has over 10 years of combined experience as a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Amy Ogden is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Master of Nursing degree from The Ohio State University, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Capital University. She has over 10 years of combined experience as a psychiatric nurse and nurse practitioner, in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
![Photo of Danielle Ginter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b793b037-ad74-43a4-8a50-71b8a440bf54/1/320x400.png)
Danielle Ginter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43212 (Online Only)
Danielle Ginter is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP) with over 7 years of experience assisting adult clients who need help coping with the effects of anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
Danielle Ginter is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP) with over 7 years of experience assisting adult clients who need help coping with the effects of anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
![Photo of Vinod Bhandari - TelaMD Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fb877fc-0651-4386-b5f2-a5a2665c6fb8/1/320x400.jpeg)
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you would like to set up an appointment.
TelaMD Health offers Multi-Specialty Care completely via telehealth. Speak with us on the phone or video chat with a mental health professional at your convenience from your home. We have a short waiting period and are currently accepting patients from a majority of insurance providers. Please call us at (614) 502-3491 if you would like to set up an appointment.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf314652-fcfd-4720-bba6-bbf2fe563330/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Erica Gantner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75c6ee6b-d2ac-4680-9fcf-b5d50b032629/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have background in medical and psychiatric care which promotes a holistic approach. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, mood disorders, trauma, schizophrenia, ADHD and substance use disorders. My background includes working with people in acute crisis and long term stabilization. I believe in working with each patient on an individual level and that no two patients are alike. Staying updated on emerging medication and therapeutic interventions allows me to provide optimal care.
As a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have background in medical and psychiatric care which promotes a holistic approach. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, mood disorders, trauma, schizophrenia, ADHD and substance use disorders. My background includes working with people in acute crisis and long term stabilization. I believe in working with each patient on an individual level and that no two patients are alike. Staying updated on emerging medication and therapeutic interventions allows me to provide optimal care.
![Photo of Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ae8cc61-84f0-4b17-bed7-818b676e5d9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, is a highly experienced psychiatrist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Wallenbrock combines a robust educational background with extensive clinical expertise to deliver high-quality, evidence-based psychiatric care. At Holistic Wellness Solutions, she focuses on providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for children aged 12 and older, as well as adults.
Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, is a highly experienced psychiatrist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Wallenbrock combines a robust educational background with extensive clinical expertise to deliver high-quality, evidence-based psychiatric care. At Holistic Wellness Solutions, she focuses on providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for children aged 12 and older, as well as adults.
![Photo of Logan McGinty, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8680967-d8de-43e5-bd21-7eb84baef467/1/320x400.jpeg)
Logan McGinty is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. He attended undergraduate and graduate school at the Ohio State University. Logan sees his practice as a platform for a patient's personal growth. His practice combines a humanistic approach with evidence-based treatment. Each patient deserves an individualized approach to their care, taking into account their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. The clinical relationship is not only for mental health stabilization but for achieving optimal states of being. Outside of work, Logan enjoys lifting and wood working.
Logan McGinty is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. He attended undergraduate and graduate school at the Ohio State University. Logan sees his practice as a platform for a patient's personal growth. His practice combines a humanistic approach with evidence-based treatment. Each patient deserves an individualized approach to their care, taking into account their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. The clinical relationship is not only for mental health stabilization but for achieving optimal states of being. Outside of work, Logan enjoys lifting and wood working.
![Photo of Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d20ff5d2-6e13-4f9f-a7dc-91c48fec866f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, PMHNP, offers a wide range of services to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She provides medication management and individual therapy, helping her patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Ifeoma’s compassionate care and expertise spans a variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. She is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues and helping individuals manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Ifeoma Uzoh-Anigbogu, PMHNP, offers a wide range of services to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. She provides medication management and individual therapy, helping her patients navigate complex mental health challenges and achieve greater emotional well-being. Ifeoma’s compassionate care and expertise spans a variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. She is particularly passionate about addressing childhood behavior issues and helping individuals manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
![Photo of Heidi Gum, MHP, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d15610d-6234-46a1-b1c8-8edbc7fa7a50/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have 22 years of experience providing services to patients in all different areas of medicine! I embrace holistic approach and I am trained in providing a whole person approach when it comes to psychiatry. I am a physician’s assistant, certified urban zen integrative therapist, and I am trained in Reiki, awareness meditation, and mindful nutrition. I love analyzing labs with my patients and connect any imbalances in vitamin, mineral, hormone, or electrolyte levels to their symptoms.
I have 22 years of experience providing services to patients in all different areas of medicine! I embrace holistic approach and I am trained in providing a whole person approach when it comes to psychiatry. I am a physician’s assistant, certified urban zen integrative therapist, and I am trained in Reiki, awareness meditation, and mindful nutrition. I love analyzing labs with my patients and connect any imbalances in vitamin, mineral, hormone, or electrolyte levels to their symptoms.
![Photo of Julia Ailts, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c9801ac-e01b-4bbb-aaea-b01700e69e30/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and holds a master’s degree in nursing from Ohio University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Minnesota. Prior to becoming a nurse, she worked as psychosocial specialist helping patients who have mental health challenges navigate the healthcare system and community resources. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Idaho State University. For the last 11 years she has practiced as an intermediate ICU nurse in a variety specialties.
Julia is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and holds a master’s degree in nursing from Ohio University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Minnesota. Prior to becoming a nurse, she worked as psychosocial specialist helping patients who have mental health challenges navigate the healthcare system and community resources. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Idaho State University. For the last 11 years she has practiced as an intermediate ICU nurse in a variety specialties.
15 Second Videos
Melissa Lopez-Larson
turning point psychiatry
Daniel Wilson Funk
Annamaria Pagani
Allen Masry
Shawn Faust
Taylor Miller
Olivetta Uradu
Sam Stahl
Kelly LaPointe
Calvary Family and Mental health Services
Michelle McCarthy
Edena Walden
Morgan Alexander
Andrea Papa-Molter
Cornerstone Integrated Healthcare of Ohio
Andrea Papa-Molter
Edena Walden
Scott Yoho
Shumeka Hill
Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center
Tiffani Michelle Gallimore
Joshua Paul Werblin
LaVita Miller
Carol Ann Parker
Kayla Stewart
Berline Frye
Mary G. Hall
Allen Masry
Edena Walden
Corey Lozier
Summer, Psyched, PsychedCbus via Grow Therapy
Melissa Lopez-Larson
![Photo of Dr. Chris Nadorff, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ffebaa9-b315-4ceb-9080-b1a718ca1d3f/1/320x400.png)
Patient Review: "I have had the benefit of working with numerous behavioral health providers over the past 15 years and Dr. Nadorff is, hands down, the best that I have worked with. She truly cares about her patients and will work with you to find the treatment plan that fits your needs and goals. Dr. Nadorff recommended a medication that I was previously unaware of for the treatment of my panic attacks and it has been an absolute game changer in my life. She is extremely quick to respond whenever I need anything and values my feedback. She is a very caring and talented psychiatrist that I would recommend to anyone seeking help."
Patient Review: "I have had the benefit of working with numerous behavioral health providers over the past 15 years and Dr. Nadorff is, hands down, the best that I have worked with. She truly cares about her patients and will work with you to find the treatment plan that fits your needs and goals. Dr. Nadorff recommended a medication that I was previously unaware of for the treatment of my panic attacks and it has been an absolute game changer in my life. She is extremely quick to respond whenever I need anything and values my feedback. She is a very caring and talented psychiatrist that I would recommend to anyone seeking help."
![Photo of Stephen Jon Bittner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72a8e5cd-ceb3-452c-b2ae-1181280d0aa8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen Jon Bittner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Bittner is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience. He believes that it is often more effective if the same therapist provides both medication and therapy as it allows for a more comprehensive, individualized and conservative treatment approach. His services include, but are not limited to diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety and panic, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. He has a special interest and expertise in treating individuals and families coping with chronic and life-threatening illness as well as grief and loss.
Dr. Bittner is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience. He believes that it is often more effective if the same therapist provides both medication and therapy as it allows for a more comprehensive, individualized and conservative treatment approach. His services include, but are not limited to diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety and panic, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. He has a special interest and expertise in treating individuals and families coping with chronic and life-threatening illness as well as grief and loss.
![Photo of Ify Agudosi, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcb17ae7-b590-4254-8380-c2439d570a69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, and welcome! I’m delighted to introduce myself as a licensed Professional Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in the heart of Ohio. With a Master’s degree from the esteemed University of Minnesota and three years of hands-on experience, I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of my clients. My focus is on helping both young and older adults navigate the challenges of mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. I believe that everyone deserves to live a life full of joy, purpose, and fulfillment.
Hello, and welcome! I’m delighted to introduce myself as a licensed Professional Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in the heart of Ohio. With a Master’s degree from the esteemed University of Minnesota and three years of hands-on experience, I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of my clients. My focus is on helping both young and older adults navigate the challenges of mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. I believe that everyone deserves to live a life full of joy, purpose, and fulfillment.
![Photo of Steven Reedy, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f09aa759-6f7a-4d3a-9567-4e5e1130b038/3/320x400.jpeg)
Steven Reedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43212
As a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring ideals from both the medical and nursing models of care in a holistic approach. In doing so, this allows me to care for you with compassion, as a whole person and with the latest evidenced-based practices. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your goals in treatment. I look forward to working with you! I offer services that incorporate holistic care, and patient autonomy, in order to achieve a therapeutic alliance. Together in a collaborative approach, we will design an individualized treatment plan for your best outcomes and success.
As a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring ideals from both the medical and nursing models of care in a holistic approach. In doing so, this allows me to care for you with compassion, as a whole person and with the latest evidenced-based practices. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your goals in treatment. I look forward to working with you! I offer services that incorporate holistic care, and patient autonomy, in order to achieve a therapeutic alliance. Together in a collaborative approach, we will design an individualized treatment plan for your best outcomes and success.
![Photo of Fanta Beretay - FirstCare Integrated Health, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b43d3ee-0185-403c-b972-dd893cdcf19c/2/320x400.jpeg)
FirstCare Integrated Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders. I have experience in treating individuals from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings.
I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in treating individuals with mental health disorders. I have experience in treating individuals from different populations, age groups and cultures in outpatient, inpatient and home settings.
![Photo of Rhonda Morris, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd010263-a020-4fb5-b427-35b086de7896/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rhonda Morris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235 (Online Only)
Rhonda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about making mental health care accessible to anyone who needs it. Over the last 20+ years in the mental health field, she has worked with patients from across the lifespan with a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, home health and recreation-based settings. She has experience with a wide range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD and psychotic disorders.
Rhonda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about making mental health care accessible to anyone who needs it. Over the last 20+ years in the mental health field, she has worked with patients from across the lifespan with a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, home health and recreation-based settings. She has experience with a wide range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD and psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Dale LaChance, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d5632af-f9c3-4961-b81c-5a5c11951c37/1/320x400.jpeg)
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
![Photo of Justin Kerr, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ec2b451-bd23-470a-8ed2-42b45032c22d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed PMNHNP trained to diagnose and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders in adults aged 18-65. I am skilled in assessing and providing treatment recommendations for people aged 18-65 who may have concerns of mood, anxiety, trauma-related disorders. Clients who are interested in seeing me may have a goal of exploring psychiatric medications for symptom management, want to explore the use of ketamine as therapeutic option, and/or receive brief psychotherapy. I legally cannot prescribe stimulants for ADHD, but can be consulted for treatment. www.luminathera.com is the website for ketamine-assisted group treatment.
I am a licensed PMNHNP trained to diagnose and treat a variety of psychiatric disorders in adults aged 18-65. I am skilled in assessing and providing treatment recommendations for people aged 18-65 who may have concerns of mood, anxiety, trauma-related disorders. Clients who are interested in seeing me may have a goal of exploring psychiatric medications for symptom management, want to explore the use of ketamine as therapeutic option, and/or receive brief psychotherapy. I legally cannot prescribe stimulants for ADHD, but can be consulted for treatment. www.luminathera.com is the website for ketamine-assisted group treatment.
![Photo of Melissa Lopez-Larson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0513d7d-d81b-48c9-bded-0b156f11a638/1/320x400.jpeg)
Don't wait 2 weeks, now seeing patients in person at her new Independence, Ohio office. Telepsychiatry also available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites including Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital and Cambridge Hospital, respectively. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
Don't wait 2 weeks, now seeing patients in person at her new Independence, Ohio office. Telepsychiatry also available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites including Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital and Cambridge Hospital, respectively. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
See more therapy options for Columbus
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH
200+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Medication Management |
58% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Columbus?
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.