Psychiatrists in 15238

Photo of Louis S Martone, MD, Psychiatrist
Louis S Martone
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Louis Martone is a board-certified psychiatrist whose comprehensive and holistic approach to psychiatry, personable and practical attitude, and academic credentials make him the ideal psychiatrist to suit your needs. He trained in New York City where he completed his psychiatry residency at Mt. Sinai Beth Israel and his forensic psychiatry fellowship at the distinguished New York University program. Upon return to his native Pittsburgh, he established himself as one of the premier forensic psychiatrists in Western Pennsylvania and has expanded to include treatment for people seeking personalized care in a boutique model.
Dr. Louis Martone is a board-certified psychiatrist whose comprehensive and holistic approach to psychiatry, personable and practical attitude, and academic credentials make him the ideal psychiatrist to suit your needs. He trained in New York City where he completed his psychiatry residency at Mt. Sinai Beth Israel and his forensic psychiatry fellowship at the distinguished New York University program. Upon return to his native Pittsburgh, he established himself as one of the premier forensic psychiatrists in Western Pennsylvania and has expanded to include treatment for people seeking personalized care in a boutique model.
(724) 919-4066 View (724) 919-4066
Photo of Mahendra L Patil, MD, Psychiatrist
Mahendra L Patil
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Our team of multi-diciplinary providers is dedicated to providing exemplary psychological and psychiatric care. I have practiced as a psychiatrist for over 23 years throughout Pennsylvania. Conveniently located in the Cranberry Township area and Fox Chapel area, we are accepting new patients, both children and adults.
Our team of multi-diciplinary providers is dedicated to providing exemplary psychological and psychiatric care. I have practiced as a psychiatrist for over 23 years throughout Pennsylvania. Conveniently located in the Cranberry Township area and Fox Chapel area, we are accepting new patients, both children and adults.
(412) 460-4083 View (412) 460-4083
Photo of Alexander Welge, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexander Welge
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I enjoy teaching and helping people understand how their bodies work, and how the medications work to help them feel better, thus empowering clients with the knowledge to make informed decisions. I also have extensive experience in the realm of substance abuse. My experience has helped me learn how to target the receptors that clients were self-medicating, in a non-habit-forming way, thereby helping to balance their chemistry, while helping them come to terms with their narrative, and ultimately learning to live their best life. I do not prescribe controlled substances.
I enjoy teaching and helping people understand how their bodies work, and how the medications work to help them feel better, thus empowering clients with the knowledge to make informed decisions. I also have extensive experience in the realm of substance abuse. My experience has helped me learn how to target the receptors that clients were self-medicating, in a non-habit-forming way, thereby helping to balance their chemistry, while helping them come to terms with their narrative, and ultimately learning to live their best life. I do not prescribe controlled substances.
(412) 743-9420 View (412) 743-9420
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 Beverly Ann Curtis - Psy-Quest, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psy-Quest
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I partner with my patients to help identify, and prevent symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, impulsivity, focus, inattentiveness, recurring thoughts and compulsions. .For children and families, we develop a plan of treatment for emotional outbursts, anxiety, mood swings, aggression, fearfulness, school avoidance and sleep issues. Through biological interventions, lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and traditional approaches including medication management, I help my patients lead happier, more productive lives.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I partner with my patients to help identify, and prevent symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, impulsivity, focus, inattentiveness, recurring thoughts and compulsions. .For children and families, we develop a plan of treatment for emotional outbursts, anxiety, mood swings, aggression, fearfulness, school avoidance and sleep issues. Through biological interventions, lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and traditional approaches including medication management, I help my patients lead happier, more productive lives.
(717) 523-9558 View (717) 523-9558
Photo of Rahul Vasireddy, MD, Psychiatrist
Rahul Vasireddy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I practice accessible, cross-cultural, evidence based psychiatry with both medications and psychotherapy. I aim to provide a collaborative space for healing and introspection as we process difficult questions and feelings. I am board certified in psychiatry with further fellowship training in addiction psychiatry. I've worked with college students, professionals with substance use disorder, asylum seekers, and everyone in between.
I practice accessible, cross-cultural, evidence based psychiatry with both medications and psychotherapy. I aim to provide a collaborative space for healing and introspection as we process difficult questions and feelings. I am board certified in psychiatry with further fellowship training in addiction psychiatry. I've worked with college students, professionals with substance use disorder, asylum seekers, and everyone in between.
(412) 312-4266 View (412) 312-4266

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lucy Krut, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lucy Krut
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murrysville, PA 15668
I view every client as an individual and collaborate with them to develop a treatment plan that meets their specific needs. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions at both Journey Locations (Murrysville and Green Tree).
I view every client as an individual and collaborate with them to develop a treatment plan that meets their specific needs. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions at both Journey Locations (Murrysville and Green Tree).
(724) 542-2802 View (724) 542-2802
Photo of Triston Wong, Psychiatrist
Triston Wong
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Triston Wong is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who emphasizes a collaborative approach and strong therapeutic alliance in treatment of psychiatric conditions. Though his practice focuses on medication management, Dr. Wong advocates for a holistic approach to treatment. He may incorporate elements of various psychotherapies, including supportive, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and insight-oriented therapy. At times, Dr. Wong may believe that additional therapy is needed for best outcome and recommend that you bring a dedicated therapist into your care team.
Dr. Triston Wong is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who emphasizes a collaborative approach and strong therapeutic alliance in treatment of psychiatric conditions. Though his practice focuses on medication management, Dr. Wong advocates for a holistic approach to treatment. He may incorporate elements of various psychotherapies, including supportive, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and insight-oriented therapy. At times, Dr. Wong may believe that additional therapy is needed for best outcome and recommend that you bring a dedicated therapist into your care team.
(215) 302-0054 View (215) 302-0054
Photo of Raj A Narayan, MD, Psychiatrist
Raj A Narayan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sewickley, PA 15143
I consider it a privilege to practice medicine and to offer care to the amazing clients I work with. I especially enjoy the art of integrating science and the healing arts in my treatment of mood disorders, addictions, psychosis, and other disorders that create such great suffering. Medications can be a powerful adjunct to behavioral change, but I think my profession sometimes underestimates a person’s capacity for healing and meaningful change on their own with the right supports in place.
I consider it a privilege to practice medicine and to offer care to the amazing clients I work with. I especially enjoy the art of integrating science and the healing arts in my treatment of mood disorders, addictions, psychosis, and other disorders that create such great suffering. Medications can be a powerful adjunct to behavioral change, but I think my profession sometimes underestimates a person’s capacity for healing and meaningful change on their own with the right supports in place.
(724) 573-3660 View (724) 573-3660
Photo of Frank A. Fetterolf, MD, Psychiatrist
Frank A. Fetterolf
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My ideal client is a curious individual who desires a solution to their problems by utilizing their existing talents. They need another perspective to restructure their relationship with themselves with the courage to learn something new. They aim to achieve sustainable change through self-affirmation rather than forced surrender. They want to feel empowered and in control, motivated by the desire for long-term health and well-being. They seek to integrate their psychological desires with physical actions, ultimately enhancing their self-esteem and mastery.
My ideal client is a curious individual who desires a solution to their problems by utilizing their existing talents. They need another perspective to restructure their relationship with themselves with the courage to learn something new. They aim to achieve sustainable change through self-affirmation rather than forced surrender. They want to feel empowered and in control, motivated by the desire for long-term health and well-being. They seek to integrate their psychological desires with physical actions, ultimately enhancing their self-esteem and mastery.
(412) 832-9949 View (412) 832-9949
Photo of Sophia Monsour, DO, Psychiatrist
Sophia Monsour
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Sophia Monsour holds the position of Chief Psychiatrist for Pennsylvania at Talkiatry. After completing residency in 2013 at Albany Medical Center, she has spent the past 9 years fulfilling her passion for integrated and specialty care for adults suffering from mental illness. Her years of experience has included working as an integrated care Psychiatrist at a community health center, a medical director of a Partial Hospital and Intensive Outpatient Program (PHP/IOP), and also working for an Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACT) specializing in the Serious Mentally Ill (SMI) population.
Dr. Sophia Monsour holds the position of Chief Psychiatrist for Pennsylvania at Talkiatry. After completing residency in 2013 at Albany Medical Center, she has spent the past 9 years fulfilling her passion for integrated and specialty care for adults suffering from mental illness. Her years of experience has included working as an integrated care Psychiatrist at a community health center, a medical director of a Partial Hospital and Intensive Outpatient Program (PHP/IOP), and also working for an Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACT) specializing in the Serious Mentally Ill (SMI) population.
(215) 309-9517 View (215) 309-9517
Photo of Danielle Miller - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Danielle Miller - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Not Verified Not Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
(412) 214-0042 View (412) 214-0042
Photo of Alexandria Baker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexandria Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, PA 15301
My ideal client would be someone seeking assistance with making life changes to promote optimal mental health. An ideal client is someone in need of support from an empathetic provider to establish short and long-term goals. They would be willing to develop a plan with me and put in the work to reach these goals. The ideal client would be open to different treatment options including non-pharmacological interventions. I believe in the holistic approach, focusing on the entire person, rather than solely treating their mental health needs.
My ideal client would be someone seeking assistance with making life changes to promote optimal mental health. An ideal client is someone in need of support from an empathetic provider to establish short and long-term goals. They would be willing to develop a plan with me and put in the work to reach these goals. The ideal client would be open to different treatment options including non-pharmacological interventions. I believe in the holistic approach, focusing on the entire person, rather than solely treating their mental health needs.
(412) 900-5093 View (412) 900-5093
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 Matthew Booth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Matthew Booth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with my patients to build a treatment plan that matches their individual needs. I am an ADHD specialist in the field - physicians and other nurse practitioners often consult me for care in this regard. I believe that ADHD is underdiagnosed and poorly treated in adults, despite the serious long-term consequences of untreated ADHD. I am comfortable treating people of all ages- I have 3 years of experience treating children and teenagers where I was in charge of an inpatient (hospital) psychiatric unit for this population.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with my patients to build a treatment plan that matches their individual needs. I am an ADHD specialist in the field - physicians and other nurse practitioners often consult me for care in this regard. I believe that ADHD is underdiagnosed and poorly treated in adults, despite the serious long-term consequences of untreated ADHD. I am comfortable treating people of all ages- I have 3 years of experience treating children and teenagers where I was in charge of an inpatient (hospital) psychiatric unit for this population.
(717) 616-2651 View (717) 616-2651
Photo of Linda Kim, MD, Psychiatrist
Linda Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
(267) 699-7758 View (267) 699-7758
Photo of Sheila Jourdain, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Offering NEW in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Offering NEW “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
Offering NEW in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Offering NEW “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
(484) 623-5994 View (484) 623-5994
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 Rebecca Headley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Headley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Rebecca Headley I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am also a board-certified Adult Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC). I have been in the medical field for over 20 years. I have a professional goal to improve mental health knowledge in the community to decrease the stigma that is currently placed on mental health. Strong communication skills will be used to build a therapeutic relationship with patients and their families.
Hello! My name is Rebecca Headley I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am also a board-certified Adult Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC). I have been in the medical field for over 20 years. I have a professional goal to improve mental health knowledge in the community to decrease the stigma that is currently placed on mental health. Strong communication skills will be used to build a therapeutic relationship with patients and their families.
(717) 373-1484 View (717) 373-1484
Photo of Dr. Oluwatobi Menawonu, FNP, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Oluwatobi Menawonu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Looking for holistic and a well - rounded metal health ? Search no further , we specialize in creative affirming and energetic approach for a healthier YOU!
Looking for holistic and a well - rounded metal health ? Search no further , we specialize in creative affirming and energetic approach for a healthier YOU!
(267) 651-8767 View (267) 651-8767

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 15238

< 10

Psychiatrists in 15238 who prioritize treating:

67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Medication Management
50% ADHD
33% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 15238 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 15238?

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.