Psychiatrists in 15106

Photo of Megan Rombold, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Rombold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Megan Rombold is a board certified mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Robert Morris University. Her clinical background includes psychiatry, neurology and neurosurgery.
Megan Rombold is a board certified mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Robert Morris University. Her clinical background includes psychiatry, neurology and neurosurgery.
(724) 399-3931 View (724) 399-3931

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Naveh, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Naveh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Lauren is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC. Our Expert Team is Ready to Help! T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
Lauren is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC. Our Expert Team is Ready to Help! T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
(724) 303-7346 View (724) 303-7346
Photo of Victoria Kunselman, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Kunselman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Crafton, PA 15205
Ideally, I enjoy working with patients with anxiety and depression disorders. Typically those who need guidance and techniques to apply to their everyday life to help them be successful in work and other parts of life. This can include medication management, therapy techniques and also non-pharm strategies including proper sleep routines, enjoyable exercise, or hobbies they enjoy. They want these things in order to feel like themselves again and also to be their best self. Also, they want to enjoy what life has to offer and to develop a positive mindset.
Ideally, I enjoy working with patients with anxiety and depression disorders. Typically those who need guidance and techniques to apply to their everyday life to help them be successful in work and other parts of life. This can include medication management, therapy techniques and also non-pharm strategies including proper sleep routines, enjoyable exercise, or hobbies they enjoy. They want these things in order to feel like themselves again and also to be their best self. Also, they want to enjoy what life has to offer and to develop a positive mindset.
(412) 903-9971 View (412) 903-9971
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
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.
(412) 226-4623 View (412) 226-4623
Photo of Thy Vo, MD, Psychiatrist
Thy Vo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Thy Vo is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, adolescents, and children. Dr. Vo approaches patients as whole human beings with the goal of providing a safe therapeutic space that will help patients understand and address their suffering as well as foster healthy emotional expression and self-awareness. Dr. Vo is collaborative with treatment needs, which may include medication and/or supportive or insight-oriented psychotherapy in 30 or 45-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Thy Vo is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, adolescents, and children. Dr. Vo approaches patients as whole human beings with the goal of providing a safe therapeutic space that will help patients understand and address their suffering as well as foster healthy emotional expression and self-awareness. Dr. Vo is collaborative with treatment needs, which may include medication and/or supportive or insight-oriented psychotherapy in 30 or 45-minute follow-up visits.
(215) 515-0252 View (215) 515-0252
Photo of Amy Alexander, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there! I am board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience treating mental health, and over 20 years of nursing experience in emergency and cardiac care. I received my Masters at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh and my Post-Masters in Psychiatry at Regis College near Boston. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management which includes some therapy. My holistic approach encompasses mind, body, and spirit and is tailored to each individual's unique needs and life experiences.
Hi there! I am board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience treating mental health, and over 20 years of nursing experience in emergency and cardiac care. I received my Masters at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh and my Post-Masters in Psychiatry at Regis College near Boston. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management which includes some therapy. My holistic approach encompasses mind, body, and spirit and is tailored to each individual's unique needs and life experiences.
(267) 497-3444 View (267) 497-3444
Photo of Cyndia Choi, MD, Psychiatrist
Cyndia Choi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Cyndia Choi has been board certified in psychiatry since 1991. Her specialty is medication management, however she believes that a therapeutic relationship is crucial to treatment. Dr. Choi values the privilege of getting to know each patient personally to develop a patient-centered plan of care. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Choi are 30 minutes to check on medication effects and provide supportive therapy. If she believes that you may benefit from additional therapy, Dr. Choi may recommend including a therapist to your treatment team. Dr. Choi also believes in a holistic approach toward helping you achieve a healthy life.
Dr. Cyndia Choi has been board certified in psychiatry since 1991. Her specialty is medication management, however she believes that a therapeutic relationship is crucial to treatment. Dr. Choi values the privilege of getting to know each patient personally to develop a patient-centered plan of care. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Choi are 30 minutes to check on medication effects and provide supportive therapy. If she believes that you may benefit from additional therapy, Dr. Choi may recommend including a therapist to your treatment team. Dr. Choi also believes in a holistic approach toward helping you achieve a healthy life.
(215) 273-9659 View (215) 273-9659
Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Njoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, or schizophrenia? Finding it challenging to manage your mental health despite your best efforts? As a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I specialize in medication management and psychoeducation. My goal is to help you regain control, alleviate symptoms, and improve your daily functioning so you can lead a fulfilling and healthy life.
Struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, or schizophrenia? Finding it challenging to manage your mental health despite your best efforts? As a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I specialize in medication management and psychoeducation. My goal is to help you regain control, alleviate symptoms, and improve your daily functioning so you can lead a fulfilling and healthy life.
(267) 532-1310 View (267) 532-1310
Photo of Sheena Dohar, Psychiatrist
Sheena Dohar
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Sheena Dohar is a board certified general psychiatrist. Before joining Talkiatry, she practiced extensively in community mental health with adults of all ages in both outpatient and inpatient settings and as the medical director of several intensive outpatient and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) based programs. She has experience in private practice and in the dual diagnoses of mental health and substance abuse disorders.
Dr. Sheena Dohar is a board certified general psychiatrist. Before joining Talkiatry, she practiced extensively in community mental health with adults of all ages in both outpatient and inpatient settings and as the medical director of several intensive outpatient and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) based programs. She has experience in private practice and in the dual diagnoses of mental health and substance abuse disorders.
(215) 693-6596 View (215) 693-6596
Photo of Kelli Ruby, DO, Psychiatrist
Kelli Ruby
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
The best way to reach out is to call my office at the number listed, and speak to our lovely front desk staff to schedule an intake! They can help you assess your insurance coverage and book you with me quickly. Currently I'm booking within 1-2 weeks.
The best way to reach out is to call my office at the number listed, and speak to our lovely front desk staff to schedule an intake! They can help you assess your insurance coverage and book you with me quickly. Currently I'm booking within 1-2 weeks.
(412) 435-4725 View (412) 435-4725
Photo of Nicola Susan Gray, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Nicola Susan Gray
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist and have experience treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I specialize in Women's mental health, including pharmacotherapy during pregnancy and the postpartum period and preconception counseling. I am also licensed to prescribe medical marijuana. I do not accept Medicaid or Medicare. Regarding all commercial insurance companies, I am out of network. This means that clients need to pay at the time of the appointment. He or she will be given a receipt and are responsible for submitting it to their insurance companies for direct reimbursement.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist and have experience treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I specialize in Women's mental health, including pharmacotherapy during pregnancy and the postpartum period and preconception counseling. I am also licensed to prescribe medical marijuana. I do not accept Medicaid or Medicare. Regarding all commercial insurance companies, I am out of network. This means that clients need to pay at the time of the appointment. He or she will be given a receipt and are responsible for submitting it to their insurance companies for direct reimbursement.
(412) 404-2428 View (412) 404-2428
Photo of Annah Murage, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annah Murage
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Annah Murage is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2021. Annah believes our lived experience shapes who we are. She takes the time to listen to the client and coming from a diverse culture helps her think outside the box. Mental health care is a right. Throughout her career, Annah has seen how health disparities affect our community. She believes everyone deserves kindness and empathy. We all deserve a safe space where we can be able to get help without judgement.
Annah Murage is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2021. Annah believes our lived experience shapes who we are. She takes the time to listen to the client and coming from a diverse culture helps her think outside the box. Mental health care is a right. Throughout her career, Annah has seen how health disparities affect our community. She believes everyone deserves kindness and empathy. We all deserve a safe space where we can be able to get help without judgement.
(412) 593-5444 View (412) 593-5444
Photo of Katey Thiry, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katey Thiry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Katey (Kat) Thiry, a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), completed her master’s degree while working as a full-time employee and mother in August of 2023 from Wilkes University. After finishing her nursing diploma in 2014, then her bachelor’s degree in 2017, Kat worked in a variety of settings. Gaining invaluable experience, Kat has a background in abdominal transplant, emergency medicine, substance use and mental health. Kat recently started with PsyCare in January of 2024 as a new provider.
Katey (Kat) Thiry, a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), completed her master’s degree while working as a full-time employee and mother in August of 2023 from Wilkes University. After finishing her nursing diploma in 2014, then her bachelor’s degree in 2017, Kat worked in a variety of settings. Gaining invaluable experience, Kat has a background in abdominal transplant, emergency medicine, substance use and mental health. Kat recently started with PsyCare in January of 2024 as a new provider.
(412) 923-6070 View (412) 923-6070
Photo of Tammy Dawson - LifeStance Health, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(724) 885-3071 View (724) 885-3071
Photo of Holly Brady, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Brady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepts clients of all ages. Must be located in FL & PA. Dr. Brady takes a holistic approach to caring for her clients with the goal of improving each individual's overall wellbeing. Mental illness impacts many facets of one's life including relationships, work, school, sleep, appetite/nutrition, and physical health. Dr. Brady will do a comprehensive assessment to understand your quality of life and help you to regain and restore wellness. Her niche is treating OCD and anxiety & common comorbidities. She is also highly experienced in treating depression, mood disorders, and eating disorders. Website: bradypsychiatryandwellness.org
Accepts clients of all ages. Must be located in FL & PA. Dr. Brady takes a holistic approach to caring for her clients with the goal of improving each individual's overall wellbeing. Mental illness impacts many facets of one's life including relationships, work, school, sleep, appetite/nutrition, and physical health. Dr. Brady will do a comprehensive assessment to understand your quality of life and help you to regain and restore wellness. Her niche is treating OCD and anxiety & common comorbidities. She is also highly experienced in treating depression, mood disorders, and eating disorders. Website: bradypsychiatryandwellness.org
(484) 939-9914 View (484) 939-9914
Photo of Dr. Mo Dattu - Mo Dattu, MD Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist
Mo Dattu, MD Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
(717) 775-6189 View (717) 775-6189
Photo of Greg Salmon, NP, MSN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Greg Salmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSN, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been a broad certifying psychiatric nurse practitioner for 12 years. I specialize in the Psychiatric treatment of adolescents, adults, and some elderly patients. I provide psych evaluations and medication management of all mental illnesses. I have an extensive background in hospital care that takes into account any co-occurring medical illness. Also, I am a compassionate provider who helps patients in their time of need in a comforting manner.
I have been a broad certifying psychiatric nurse practitioner for 12 years. I specialize in the Psychiatric treatment of adolescents, adults, and some elderly patients. I provide psych evaluations and medication management of all mental illnesses. I have an extensive background in hospital care that takes into account any co-occurring medical illness. Also, I am a compassionate provider who helps patients in their time of need in a comforting manner.
(856) 880-6671 View (856) 880-6671
Photo of Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tammy Lobach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. DrTammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. DrTammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified
(484) 759-7908 View (484) 759-7908
Photo of Olabisi Kadiku, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olabisi Kadiku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Olabisi Kadiku is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is a warm and enthusiastic individual who takes a holistic and patient-centered approach to providing quality mental healthcare, emphasizing the integration of psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment with an evidence-based approach. Her practice encompasses a broad range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorders, mood disorders, sleep disorders, stress management, grief/bereavement, and schizophrenia among others from age 18 and above.
Olabisi Kadiku is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is a warm and enthusiastic individual who takes a holistic and patient-centered approach to providing quality mental healthcare, emphasizing the integration of psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment with an evidence-based approach. Her practice encompasses a broad range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorders, mood disorders, sleep disorders, stress management, grief/bereavement, and schizophrenia among others from age 18 and above.
(717) 912-9492 View (717) 912-9492
Photo of Abby Reineck, MD, Psychiatrist
Abby Reineck
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Abby Reineck currently serves as an outpatient child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has been practicing for eleven years. Dr. Reineck's practice is primarily medication-management services, offered in conjunction with either supportive or eclectic therapy. Follow-up appointments average 30 minutes, but may be more or less. Occasionally, Dr. Reineck believes the addition of a therapist is needed and will request you bring a therapist into your care team. This will be asked of individuals if she believes it will lead to an improved clinical outcome.
Dr. Abby Reineck currently serves as an outpatient child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has been practicing for eleven years. Dr. Reineck's practice is primarily medication-management services, offered in conjunction with either supportive or eclectic therapy. Follow-up appointments average 30 minutes, but may be more or less. Occasionally, Dr. Reineck believes the addition of a therapist is needed and will request you bring a therapist into your care team. This will be asked of individuals if she believes it will lead to an improved clinical outcome.
(267) 377-4268 View (267) 377-4268

See more therapy options for 15106

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 15106

< 10

Psychiatrists in 15106 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
100% Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% TRICARE

How Psychiatrists in 15106 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 15106?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.