Psychiatrists in Franklin County, OH
Paige Malone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
I received my Master's from The Ohio State University and am a board-certified PMHNP. I can provide diagnostic testing and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions and am accepting new clients! I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care to children (age 6+), adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health struggles. My approach is rooted in empathy and a belief in empowering individuals to make educated decisions about their treatment options. I believe in patient-centered care and working with my patients to develop individualized plans that align with their unique goals/preferences.
I received my Master's from The Ohio State University and am a board-certified PMHNP. I can provide diagnostic testing and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions and am accepting new clients! I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care to children (age 6+), adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health struggles. My approach is rooted in empathy and a belief in empowering individuals to make educated decisions about their treatment options. I believe in patient-centered care and working with my patients to develop individualized plans that align with their unique goals/preferences.
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
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.
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist trained to listen empathically to patients with deep respect for their emotional troubles. Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Executive Functioning disorders, Autism and Aspergers Syndrome are a major focus of my practice. Women's Health, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Psychosis and Schizophrenia are also treated extensively. Pharmacotherapy and Psychotherapy are employed with kindness and compassion to restore balance and quality of life. I employ an Integrative Psychiatric approach to resolve underlying root causes of illness and achieve symptom relief.
I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist trained to listen empathically to patients with deep respect for their emotional troubles. Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Executive Functioning disorders, Autism and Aspergers Syndrome are a major focus of my practice. Women's Health, Eating disorders, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Psychosis and Schizophrenia are also treated extensively. Pharmacotherapy and Psychotherapy are employed with kindness and compassion to restore balance and quality of life. I employ an Integrative Psychiatric approach to resolve underlying root causes of illness and achieve symptom relief.
Welcome! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to empowering individuals, helping them achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. I am invested in taking a collaborative, comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my clients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that my care is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
Welcome! I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to empowering individuals, helping them achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. I am invested in taking a collaborative, comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my clients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that my care is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
LaRue Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219 (Online Only)
LaRue Psychiatric Services, LLC was established by Khalilah LaRue, C.N.P. in order to provide premier psychiatric treatment to the residents of Central Ohio in a timely manner. She is able to accommodate most clients into his schedule within one to two weeks, while still providing the highest level of compassionate care. Khalilah LaRue, CNP is able to answer any questions you may have about treatment and recovery and make the whole process a bit less intimidating. Whether you have struggled with life-long mental illness or the changes in your mood are new, we are here to help you on your road to wellness.
LaRue Psychiatric Services, LLC was established by Khalilah LaRue, C.N.P. in order to provide premier psychiatric treatment to the residents of Central Ohio in a timely manner. She is able to accommodate most clients into his schedule within one to two weeks, while still providing the highest level of compassionate care. Khalilah LaRue, CNP is able to answer any questions you may have about treatment and recovery and make the whole process a bit less intimidating. Whether you have struggled with life-long mental illness or the changes in your mood are new, we are here to help you on your road to wellness.
Nne Ihemere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 (Online Only)
Hi my name is Nne, I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. I am board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in psychiatry, and a certified Clinical Nurse Leader. I have over fifteen years of healthcare experience as a critical/acute care nurse at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, clinical instructor, and psychiatric mental health service provider.
Hi my name is Nne, I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. I am board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in psychiatry, and a certified Clinical Nurse Leader. I have over fifteen years of healthcare experience as a critical/acute care nurse at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, clinical instructor, and psychiatric mental health service provider.
Resilient Children and Families
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43232
My experience encompasses work with at risk populations and those suffering with depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar disorder, substance use, and many other mental health diagnoses. Through care, compassion, and enhanced clinical skills I bring a unique holistic approach blending faith based and evidence-based modalities within my practice.
My experience encompasses work with at risk populations and those suffering with depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar disorder, substance use, and many other mental health diagnoses. Through care, compassion, and enhanced clinical skills I bring a unique holistic approach blending faith based and evidence-based modalities within my practice.
I believe that addressing underlying trauma and co-occurring mental health disorders is crucial for achieving sustainable recovery. By staying informed about the latest research and best practices, I can provide the most effective and compassionate care to my clients. By building trust and fostering a supportive atmosphere, I am able to help them develop coping strategies, set achievable goals, and work towards long-term recovery. Witnessing growth and resilience is incredibly inspiring and reinforced my commitment to this field.
I believe that addressing underlying trauma and co-occurring mental health disorders is crucial for achieving sustainable recovery. By staying informed about the latest research and best practices, I can provide the most effective and compassionate care to my clients. By building trust and fostering a supportive atmosphere, I am able to help them develop coping strategies, set achievable goals, and work towards long-term recovery. Witnessing growth and resilience is incredibly inspiring and reinforced my commitment to this field.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
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.
Janey Shipman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
Hello! I am a certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner trained to diagnose mental health disorders and treat those who struggle with them. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health concerns and I especially enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with feeling out of place or misunderstood.
Hello! I am a certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner trained to diagnose mental health disorders and treat those who struggle with them. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health concerns and I especially enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with feeling out of place or misunderstood.
15 Second Videos
Edena Walden
Shawn Faust
Calvary Family and Mental health Services
Scott Yoho
Balance Psychiatric Services
Edena Walden
Andrea Papa-Molter
Holly Lecklider
Kelly LaPointe
Morgan Alexander
Michelle McCarthy
Sarah (Reid) Red Specializing In Anxiety
Sam Stahl
Allen Masry
Daniel Wilson Funk
Emerald Psychiatry & TMS Center
Melissa Lopez-Larson
Andrea Papa-Molter
turning point psychiatry
Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress
Allen Masry
Olivetta Uradu
Cornerstone Integrated Healthcare of Ohio
Edena Walden
Annamaria Pagani
Taylor Miller
Andrea Papa-Molter
Shumeka Hill
Jen Foren
Erin Miller
Michelle McCarthy
LaVita Miller
Joshua Paul Werblin
Becca Granger
Tiffani Michelle Gallimore
Corey Lozier
Carol Ann Parker
Mary G. Hall
Berline Frye
Kayla Stewart
Olivetta Uradu
Justin Hendricks
Summer, Psyched, PsychedCbus via Grow Therapy
Melissa Lopez-Larson
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Ahuja is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Balanced Innovative Care. She has expertise in treating all mental health disorders including Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Stress-related disorders. She offers specialized diagnostic Autism evaluations, ADHD evaluations, one-time consultations, and ongoing care with medication management to patients in Ohio and Wisconsin. Online appointments are available with no waitlist including evenings and weekends. Schedule a new patient appointment directly from her website here: www.BalancedInnovativeCare.com/new-patients
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Ahuja is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Balanced Innovative Care. She has expertise in treating all mental health disorders including Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Stress-related disorders. She offers specialized diagnostic Autism evaluations, ADHD evaluations, one-time consultations, and ongoing care with medication management to patients in Ohio and Wisconsin. Online appointments are available with no waitlist including evenings and weekends. Schedule a new patient appointment directly from her website here: www.BalancedInnovativeCare.com/new-patients
Christopher Lautt is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He earned both his Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degrees with honors at The Ohio State University. He has been working in psychiatry for several years as a nurse and nurse practitioner with experience in telepsychiatry, inpatient psychiatry, and outpatient community mental health.
Christopher Lautt is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He earned both his Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degrees with honors at The Ohio State University. He has been working in psychiatry for several years as a nurse and nurse practitioner with experience in telepsychiatry, inpatient psychiatry, and outpatient community mental health.
Mary Abbott, Certified Nurse Practitioner, graduated with Honors from Drexel University with a master's degree in Nursing and a Post Master's Certificate as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in general psychiatry and currently treats adults 18 years or older. Mary has a special interest in treating a variety of disorders including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Ms. Abbott also holds a certificate as a Woman's Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience.
Mary Abbott, Certified Nurse Practitioner, graduated with Honors from Drexel University with a master's degree in Nursing and a Post Master's Certificate as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in general psychiatry and currently treats adults 18 years or older. Mary has a special interest in treating a variety of disorders including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Ms. Abbott also holds a certificate as a Woman's Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience.
Sheila V Canini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220 (Online Only)
My ideal clients range from teenagers to adults of all genders, primarily residing in areas where our services are accessible. These individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and are motivated to improve their mental health, achieve better sleep, and embrace change. They require personalized therapy, a supportive community, educational resources, and professional guidance. These clients seek relief from their conditions, value a high quality of life, long for stability, and are committed to self-improvement. Addressing these needs helps them on their journey to better mental health and an enhanced life
My ideal clients range from teenagers to adults of all genders, primarily residing in areas where our services are accessible. These individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and are motivated to improve their mental health, achieve better sleep, and embrace change. They require personalized therapy, a supportive community, educational resources, and professional guidance. These clients seek relief from their conditions, value a high quality of life, long for stability, and are committed to self-improvement. Addressing these needs helps them on their journey to better mental health and an enhanced life
An RN for over 25 years, I have successfully completed intensive training through Behavioral Tech in DBTI am passionate about helping individuals, their families and supports using the evidence based principles and skills of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My enthusiasm for my work comes from seeing my clients experience relief from emotional suffering while they build mastery in making and keeping relationships, thrive in daily living, and build their lives in such a way as to make them worth embracing every day. In DBT we call this, "Having a Life Worth Living."
An RN for over 25 years, I have successfully completed intensive training through Behavioral Tech in DBTI am passionate about helping individuals, their families and supports using the evidence based principles and skills of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My enthusiasm for my work comes from seeing my clients experience relief from emotional suffering while they build mastery in making and keeping relationships, thrive in daily living, and build their lives in such a way as to make them worth embracing every day. In DBT we call this, "Having a Life Worth Living."
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.
A Child and Family Psychiatry LLC was established by Dr. Sherk to provide treatments to Columbus and Ohio residents. A Child and Family Psychiatry offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment resistant depression and comorbid conditions including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder, Autism spectrum. TMS might be an option if you or someone you know was on different medications for depression, anxiety and comorbid conditions without positive result and continues suffering despite treatment.
A Child and Family Psychiatry LLC was established by Dr. Sherk to provide treatments to Columbus and Ohio residents. A Child and Family Psychiatry offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment resistant depression and comorbid conditions including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder, Autism spectrum. TMS might be an option if you or someone you know was on different medications for depression, anxiety and comorbid conditions without positive result and continues suffering despite treatment.
I pride myself on being a relatable psychiatrist with extensive knowledge about psychiatric diagnoses and medications. Family, nutrition, and outdoor activities are important to me. I look forward to learning what’s important to you.
I pride myself on being a relatable psychiatrist with extensive knowledge about psychiatric diagnoses and medications. Family, nutrition, and outdoor activities are important to me. I look forward to learning what’s important to you.
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43223 (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
See more therapy options for Franklin County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Franklin County, OH
200+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Franklin County, OH who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
59% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Franklin County, OH see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Franklin County?
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.