Psychiatrists in Columbus, OH
![Photo of Alexis LeFevre-Casby, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34cc1f45-1943-46f4-b999-feef2498b8de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis LeFevre-Casby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212
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 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 Daniel Wilson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ba36fc-27a3-438d-8e92-eef4457fe51f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Daniel Wilson. I have been a nurse for a while (if you really want to know, ask)! I have worked in the operating room, the emergency room, and mental health (it took me a while to find where I really needed/wanted to be). I started working in behavioral health ten years ago and it has been one of the best experiences of my career. The people I have had the pleasure to serve have been some of the most interesting, intelligent I have ever met.
Hi, my name is Daniel Wilson. I have been a nurse for a while (if you really want to know, ask)! I have worked in the operating room, the emergency room, and mental health (it took me a while to find where I really needed/wanted to be). I started working in behavioral health ten years ago and it has been one of the best experiences of my career. The people I have had the pleasure to serve have been some of the most interesting, intelligent I have ever met.
![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 Dr. Olivetta Uradu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ec38bb-d7ef-4ec0-9112-dab257724dd7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
![Photo of Mark Skinner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45aa1fae-cb82-424a-8972-d42d3e2f4e0e/2/320x400.png)
Mark is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has over 8 years of experience managing and treating adults facing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. Mark is driven to provide the best possible care to each person. Mark completed his Master's degree in Nursing from the Ohio State University. He has a background in Social Work, which gives him a unique perspective for making treatment recommendations for the adults he works with.
Mark is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has over 8 years of experience managing and treating adults facing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and ADHD. Mark is driven to provide the best possible care to each person. Mark completed his Master's degree in Nursing from the Ohio State University. He has a background in Social Work, which gives him a unique perspective for making treatment recommendations for the adults he works with.
![Photo of Holly A Schweitzer - ONE Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bc52e7d-e2c8-4308-8b53-5481daf7635f/2/320x400.png)
Here at ONE we believe in providing individualized mental health care for every ONE. We understand that you are unique. We will value this uniqueness as part of your process towards mental, emotional, and psychological healing. Our providers are knowledgeable in the latest innovations in evidence-based care, while also allowing for opportunity to integrate specific care paths for your individual needs.
Here at ONE we believe in providing individualized mental health care for every ONE. We understand that you are unique. We will value this uniqueness as part of your process towards mental, emotional, and psychological healing. Our providers are knowledgeable in the latest innovations in evidence-based care, while also allowing for opportunity to integrate specific care paths for your individual needs.
![Photo of Misty McDowell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7247209a-68b3-429a-a720-df19c7d23924/1/320x400.jpeg)
Misty McDowell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in psychiatry and five years of experience in treating addiction and alcohol dependence, and I am only licensed in Ohio. I specialize in providing mental health services for clients who have depression, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, social anxiety, post-partum depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, tourette's disorder, excoriation skin-picking disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmare disorder, night-tear disorder, eating disorders, etc.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in psychiatry and five years of experience in treating addiction and alcohol dependence, and I am only licensed in Ohio. I specialize in providing mental health services for clients who have depression, anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, social anxiety, post-partum depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, tourette's disorder, excoriation skin-picking disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, nightmare disorder, night-tear disorder, eating disorders, etc.
![Photo of Nick Baston, NP, RN, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1565bdc1-68a2-46ce-b0f0-4877e0582abd/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Baston earned Doctoral of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah after completing a Masters degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from the Ohio State University. After Dr. Baston completed his Masters degree, he moved to a community mental health center in Columbus, Ohio where he treated a severe and persistently mental ill population consisting of schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Dr. Baston earned Doctoral of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah after completing a Masters degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from the Ohio State University. After Dr. Baston completed his Masters degree, he moved to a community mental health center in Columbus, Ohio where he treated a severe and persistently mental ill population consisting of schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Mark Erik Blair - Optimum TMS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49d09116-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Blair and Optimum TMS, utilize the most technologically advanced treatment for those individuals suffering from treatment resistant depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation, or "TMS." If you or someone you know suffers from depression and have tried various medications without success, TMS could be a treatment option you should explore. TMS has a response rate of 75% and a full remission rate of around 30%.
Dr. Blair and Optimum TMS, utilize the most technologically advanced treatment for those individuals suffering from treatment resistant depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation, or "TMS." If you or someone you know suffers from depression and have tried various medications without success, TMS could be a treatment option you should explore. TMS has a response rate of 75% and a full remission rate of around 30%.
![Photo of Gerald Makobong, APRN, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a2dc904-c775-4715-a964-8bf82db429d9/2/320x400.png)
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
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![Photo of Alicja Matusiak, MSW, MSN, LISW-S, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eedb580b-456a-484b-ab91-27e5071dc4a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alicja Matusiak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, LISW-S, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
Meet Alicja Matusiak, your dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner and social worker specializing in holistic weight management. Alicja is passionate about assisting individuals who struggle with weight gain due to psychiatric medications, genetics, or health challenges. She provides thorough evaluations and personalized management of psychiatric medications alongside tailored weight loss plans. Alicja utilizes medications such as Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) or Tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) to help clients achieve their weight loss goals effectively and safely.
Meet Alicja Matusiak, your dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner and social worker specializing in holistic weight management. Alicja is passionate about assisting individuals who struggle with weight gain due to psychiatric medications, genetics, or health challenges. She provides thorough evaluations and personalized management of psychiatric medications alongside tailored weight loss plans. Alicja utilizes medications such as Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) or Tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) to help clients achieve their weight loss goals effectively and safely.
![Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8e7b84f-2861-4ab4-9eba-8a208ec97a1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Elizabeth Passino, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1076b7cc-92fa-4638-8921-030102981d23/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in building therapeutic relationships with my patients, utilizing evidence-based approaches, and partnering with patients to find the best interventions for their individual needs. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other psychotic disorders. I am currently accepting new patients, both adults and adolescents ages 16 and older.
I believe in building therapeutic relationships with my patients, utilizing evidence-based approaches, and partnering with patients to find the best interventions for their individual needs. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other psychotic disorders. I am currently accepting new patients, both adults and adolescents ages 16 and older.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4a78b7b-3e0d-4a5a-b411-b2a149735483/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Eric Rush, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f4759e0-2fe4-440f-a347-6c7492159c71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner integrating therapy and medication management. I work with clients to explore healing through mind, body, and overall wellness. Together, we'll develop a personalized approach that supports your journey in building a healthy and fulfilling life.
Accepting new clients! I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner integrating therapy and medication management. I work with clients to explore healing through mind, body, and overall wellness. Together, we'll develop a personalized approach that supports your journey in building a healthy and fulfilling life.
![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.
![Photo of Kerri Pearch, APRN, PMHNP, ENP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ee6c9e-ec5f-4c47-a485-6e5a36445a35/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kerri Pearch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ENP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240 (Online Only)
Kerri Pearch is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMH-BC) with over 25 years nursing experience, including with Cleveland Clinic. She also holds certifications as a nurse practitioner in both family and emergency medicine. She has served as an adjunct professor at Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences and as a preceptor for Chamberlain University’s nurse practitioner program. Kerri's medical training has equipped her to provide excellent care and support to patients with chronic mental illnesses, cognitive impairment, and functional loss due to mental health issues.
Kerri Pearch is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMH-BC) with over 25 years nursing experience, including with Cleveland Clinic. She also holds certifications as a nurse practitioner in both family and emergency medicine. She has served as an adjunct professor at Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences and as a preceptor for Chamberlain University’s nurse practitioner program. Kerri's medical training has equipped her to provide excellent care and support to patients with chronic mental illnesses, cognitive impairment, and functional loss due to mental health issues.
![Photo of Kara Tarr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4619a608-a77a-406f-9ad8-d033d335801b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I'm Kara Tarr, a dedicated mental health professional with over 15 years of varied medical experience. My journey in the medical field began with education as a cardiovascular perfusionist, armed with a Bachelors Degree in Biology. From there, I found my calling in nursing and earned a Bachelors degree in the field from Duquesne University, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My skills and knowledge have been put to test in a number of challenging environments including intensive care, surgery, and IT nursing.
Hello there! I'm Kara Tarr, a dedicated mental health professional with over 15 years of varied medical experience. My journey in the medical field began with education as a cardiovascular perfusionist, armed with a Bachelors Degree in Biology. From there, I found my calling in nursing and earned a Bachelors degree in the field from Duquesne University, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My skills and knowledge have been put to test in a number of challenging environments including intensive care, surgery, and IT nursing.
![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.
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
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | 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.