Psychiatrists in 15301

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 Muhammad Ilyas Shaikh, MD, Psychiatrist
Muhammad Ilyas Shaikh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Washington, PA 15301
I am board certified psychiatrist for children, teens and adults in the greater Pittsburgh area. My goal is to relieve your stress, improve your self esteem and help coping with trauma with medication management. It is crucial to seek out help especially in these challenging times. I individualize psychiatric care where you feel safe and respected regardless of gender, race, orientation or religion. Please call Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care to start your journey with us. We have a wonderful support team to guide you on your path to recovery.
I am board certified psychiatrist for children, teens and adults in the greater Pittsburgh area. My goal is to relieve your stress, improve your self esteem and help coping with trauma with medication management. It is crucial to seek out help especially in these challenging times. I individualize psychiatric care where you feel safe and respected regardless of gender, race, orientation or religion. Please call Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care to start your journey with us. We have a wonderful support team to guide you on your path to recovery.
(412) 899-2645 View (412) 899-2645
Photo of Katey Thiry, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katey Thiry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 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
Photo of Amanda Hillen, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Hillen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner treating clients aged 18 and older, I focus on addressing a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach prioritizes building a fair and trusting relationship with patients, ensuring they feel respected, heard, and empowered throughout their mental wellness journey. By recognizing the unique needs of each individual, I utilize a comprehensive method that combines medication management with therapeutic interventions.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner treating clients aged 18 and older, I focus on addressing a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach prioritizes building a fair and trusting relationship with patients, ensuring they feel respected, heard, and empowered throughout their mental wellness journey. By recognizing the unique needs of each individual, I utilize a comprehensive method that combines medication management with therapeutic interventions.
(412) 455-8438 View (412) 455-8438

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Fitz Martin, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fitz Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
tion Hello, feeling sad, anxious, or having difficulty concentrating and focusing? I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner focused on delivering Client-Centered, Caring, Compassionate, and Dedicated Care. I can help you through this trying time if the symptoms impact your daily living. Sometimes we fall into a rut and can not pull ourselves out. I treat individuals ages 14 to 70.
tion Hello, feeling sad, anxious, or having difficulty concentrating and focusing? I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner focused on delivering Client-Centered, Caring, Compassionate, and Dedicated Care. I can help you through this trying time if the symptoms impact your daily living. Sometimes we fall into a rut and can not pull ourselves out. I treat individuals ages 14 to 70.
(223) 215-4330 View (223) 215-4330
Photo of Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
(412) 312-5979 View (412) 312-5979
Photo of Kayla Ali - Psychiatry Mental Health, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Kayla Ali - Psychiatry Mental Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
With a background in Health Sciences, Kayla completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at Saint Francis University and has been practicing as a Certified Physician Assistant since 2018. Before joining the Nexus Group team, Kayla worked in The Department of Family Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). During her time at UPMC, Kayla provided extensive psychiatric care to hundreds of patients with mental health issues, including management of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and addiction.
With a background in Health Sciences, Kayla completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at Saint Francis University and has been practicing as a Certified Physician Assistant since 2018. Before joining the Nexus Group team, Kayla worked in The Department of Family Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). During her time at UPMC, Kayla provided extensive psychiatric care to hundreds of patients with mental health issues, including management of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and addiction.
(412) 214-0042 View (412) 214-0042
Photo of Olivia Dehus, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivia Dehus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Bridgeville, PA 15017
Olivia Dehus, PMHNP, is an advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health dedicated to empowering clients through a collaborative approach to mental health care in Pennsylvania. She believes that when patients feel involved in their treatment, they are more likely to adhere to their care plans, leading to improved outcomes. By tailoring her services to meet the individual needs of each client, Olivia creates a supportive and engaging therapeutic environment. Olivia is particularly passionate about treating a variety of mental health conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Olivia Dehus, PMHNP, is an advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health dedicated to empowering clients through a collaborative approach to mental health care in Pennsylvania. She believes that when patients feel involved in their treatment, they are more likely to adhere to their care plans, leading to improved outcomes. By tailoring her services to meet the individual needs of each client, Olivia creates a supportive and engaging therapeutic environment. Olivia is particularly passionate about treating a variety of mental health conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
(412) 991-1653 View (412) 991-1653
Photo of Samantha Odonnell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Odonnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting patients virtually in both PA/NJ. As a mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals who have often faced significant challenges in their journey toward mental wellness. My ideal client is someone who has navigated through various healthcare providers and treatments, yet still finds themselves struggling to achieve the relief they desperately seek. Someone seeking holistic mental health care that goes beyond merely managing symptoms and focuses on overall mental well-being.
Accepting patients virtually in both PA/NJ. As a mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals who have often faced significant challenges in their journey toward mental wellness. My ideal client is someone who has navigated through various healthcare providers and treatments, yet still finds themselves struggling to achieve the relief they desperately seek. Someone seeking holistic mental health care that goes beyond merely managing symptoms and focuses on overall mental well-being.
(267) 641-9758 View (267) 641-9758
Photo of Dr. Alexandra Blaes, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Alexandra Blaes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Alexandra (“Sasha”) Blaes is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Blaes completed medical school at The University of Maryland, followed by a psychiatry residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. While at Johns Hopkins, she mastered clinical assessment and treatment of general psychiatric problems. She also received specialized training in eating disorders, addiction, reproductive psychiatry, chronic pain, and geriatric psychiatry, an interest she pursued further with a fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Dr. Alexandra (“Sasha”) Blaes is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Blaes completed medical school at The University of Maryland, followed by a psychiatry residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. While at Johns Hopkins, she mastered clinical assessment and treatment of general psychiatric problems. She also received specialized training in eating disorders, addiction, reproductive psychiatry, chronic pain, and geriatric psychiatry, an interest she pursued further with a fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
(215) 774-6622 View (215) 774-6622
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
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.
(412) 368-0059 View (412) 368-0059
Photo of Loren Sobel - LJS Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
LJS Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
LJS Psychiatry is a unique psychiatry practice that provides truly holistic psychiatric care. LJS Psychiatry providers are psychotherapists who can prescribe medications, when needed, in the context of individual psychotherapy. That means you no longer need to see one person for psychotherapy and another for medication treatment. Instead, we provide genuine whole person care that proves to be highly effective. When you're navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, or identity challenges, you need a space where you are met with genuine empathy, active curiosity, and a willingness to encourage honest self-examination.
LJS Psychiatry is a unique psychiatry practice that provides truly holistic psychiatric care. LJS Psychiatry providers are psychotherapists who can prescribe medications, when needed, in the context of individual psychotherapy. That means you no longer need to see one person for psychotherapy and another for medication treatment. Instead, we provide genuine whole person care that proves to be highly effective. When you're navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, or identity challenges, you need a space where you are met with genuine empathy, active curiosity, and a willingness to encourage honest self-examination.
(412) 991-1144 View (412) 991-1144
Photo of Grace Muthami - Bright Mind Wellness , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bright Mind Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients! In a world where mental health is finally beginning to receive the attention it deserves, it’s crucial for us to understand how we can help those who are struggling. Mental health challenges affect millions of people worldwide, and by fostering a supportive environment, we can play a pivotal role in their journey toward recovery. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, are prevalent, impacting 1 in 5 adults each year. Book with me to start your journey.
Accepting New Patients! In a world where mental health is finally beginning to receive the attention it deserves, it’s crucial for us to understand how we can help those who are struggling. Mental health challenges affect millions of people worldwide, and by fostering a supportive environment, we can play a pivotal role in their journey toward recovery. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, are prevalent, impacting 1 in 5 adults each year. Book with me to start your journey.
(717) 297-6438 View (717) 297-6438
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(724) 870-4294 View (724) 870-4294
Photo of Brent Smith, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brent Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 14 years experience in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry covering both acute and primary care. I have extensive training in treatment of substance/alcohol use disorders, bipolar, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorders, various dementias, and autism. Additional expertise includes weight loss/obesity, smoking cessation, tinnitus, fluoroquinolone associated disability (FQAD), and visual snow syndrome (VSS) treatment.
I am a Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 14 years experience in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry covering both acute and primary care. I have extensive training in treatment of substance/alcohol use disorders, bipolar, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorders, various dementias, and autism. Additional expertise includes weight loss/obesity, smoking cessation, tinnitus, fluoroquinolone associated disability (FQAD), and visual snow syndrome (VSS) treatment.
(570) 865-7765 View (570) 865-7765
Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
(412) 500-9581 View (412) 500-9581
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(412) 946-0805 View (412) 946-0805
Photo of Rita Shaughnessy, MD, Psychiatrist
Rita Shaughnessy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shaughnessy is boarded in adult psychiatry and has over 30 years experience. Dr. Shaughnessy practices medication management in a supportive collaborative environment. Treatment recommendations may include psychotherapy with another professional in addition to medication management.
Dr. Shaughnessy is boarded in adult psychiatry and has over 30 years experience. Dr. Shaughnessy practices medication management in a supportive collaborative environment. Treatment recommendations may include psychotherapy with another professional in addition to medication management.
(215) 584-4615 View (215) 584-4615
Photo of Sheila Jourdain, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Patients I am a Board Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I develop comprehensive and thorough treatment plans. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals.
Accepting New Patients I am a Board Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I develop comprehensive and thorough treatment plans. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals.
(610) 798-1041 View (610) 798-1041

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 15301

< 10

Psychiatrists in 15301 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 15301 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 15301?

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.