Psychiatrists in 16201

Photo of Michelle L Marino, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle L Marino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kittanning, PA 16201
I offer a comprehensive approach to mental health care. I provide personalized care that goes beyond traditional mental health treatment by combining traditional psychiatric services like psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy with a holistic wellness approach. I believe optimal mental health requires alignment of mind, body and spirit. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes through evidence-based treatments, integrative modalities, community support and self-care practices. I focus on healing for long term success.
I offer a comprehensive approach to mental health care. I provide personalized care that goes beyond traditional mental health treatment by combining traditional psychiatric services like psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy with a holistic wellness approach. I believe optimal mental health requires alignment of mind, body and spirit. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes through evidence-based treatments, integrative modalities, community support and self-care practices. I focus on healing for long term success.
(724) 302-5969 View (724) 302-5969

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kelli Ruby, DO, Psychiatrist
Kelli Ruby
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001
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 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 Stephanie Arotin, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Arotin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Indiana, PA 15701
Talking about mental health can be hard. I founded Aspire Mental Health, LLC to provide a safe and comfortable space to provide treatment for a spectrum of mental health disorders for patients ages 14 years and older.
Talking about mental health can be hard. I founded Aspire Mental Health, LLC to provide a safe and comfortable space to provide treatment for a spectrum of mental health disorders for patients ages 14 years and older.
(724) 819-4200 View (724) 819-4200
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
Monroeville, PA 15146  (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
Photo of Melissa Turkal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Turkal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gibsonia, PA 15044
Dr. Melissa Turkal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Turkal’s goal is to promote a safe space for women to begin their journey toward improved mental health. She strives to honor your lived experience. Dr. Turkal is grateful to assist her female and feminine identifying clients find the correct diagnosis, the right combination of medication, proper nutrition, exercise, and therapy to achieve emotional stability and optimal recovery.
Dr. Melissa Turkal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Turkal’s goal is to promote a safe space for women to begin their journey toward improved mental health. She strives to honor your lived experience. Dr. Turkal is grateful to assist her female and feminine identifying clients find the correct diagnosis, the right combination of medication, proper nutrition, exercise, and therapy to achieve emotional stability and optimal recovery.
(724) 286-4971 View (724) 286-4971
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 Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tammy Lobach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Bakerstown, PA 15007
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. Tammy’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 to
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. Tammy’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 to
(484) 806-9353 View (484) 806-9353
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 Tara Burkholder - T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
New Kensington, PA 15068  (Online Only)
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.
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) 997-6199 View (724) 997-6199
Photo of Greg Thorkelson, MD, Psychiatrist
Greg Thorkelson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
Dr. Thorkelson is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh. He completed his adult residency training at Temple University and his child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at The University of Pittsburgh where he continued on in three roles: As Associate Medical Director at the Center for Integrative Medicine, as a staff psychiatrist at the John Merck Center for Autism and Developmental Disorders, and through the Visceral Inflammation and Pain (VIP) Center in the Department of Gastroenterology. Dr. Thorkelson specializes in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, autism, and ADHD.
Dr. Thorkelson is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh. He completed his adult residency training at Temple University and his child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at The University of Pittsburgh where he continued on in three roles: As Associate Medical Director at the Center for Integrative Medicine, as a staff psychiatrist at the John Merck Center for Autism and Developmental Disorders, and through the Visceral Inflammation and Pain (VIP) Center in the Department of Gastroenterology. Dr. Thorkelson specializes in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, autism, and ADHD.
(412) 214-0042 View (412) 214-0042
Photo of Merrideth Leggat, Psychiatrist
Merrideth Leggat
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
I am a psychiatrist practicing in Pittsburgh, PA with over 21 years of experience in the field of medicine. As a psychiatrist, I diagnose and treat mental illnesses. I may treat clients through a variety of methods including medications, psychotherapy or talk therapy, psychosocial interventions and more, depending on each individual case.
I am a psychiatrist practicing in Pittsburgh, PA with over 21 years of experience in the field of medicine. As a psychiatrist, I diagnose and treat mental illnesses. I may treat clients through a variety of methods including medications, psychotherapy or talk therapy, psychosocial interventions and more, depending on each individual case.
(412) 960-2661 View (412) 960-2661
Photo of Beverly Ann Curtis - Psy-Quest, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psy-Quest
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238  (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 Christin Bell, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Christin Bell
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
As a PA-C at New Directions Mental Health, I am driven by compassion and dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. With specialized training and expertise in psychiatry, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of holistic mental health care options to address a wide range of psychiatric concerns. My primary goal is to create a warm and non-judgmental space where clients feel understood, heard and safe working together to find a treatment approach that best supports their unique needs.
As a PA-C at New Directions Mental Health, I am driven by compassion and dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. With specialized training and expertise in psychiatry, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of holistic mental health care options to address a wide range of psychiatric concerns. My primary goal is to create a warm and non-judgmental space where clients feel understood, heard and safe working together to find a treatment approach that best supports their unique needs.
(412) 754-4054 View (412) 754-4054
Photo of Courtney Kimack, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Courtney Kimack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
My ideal client would include someone who is looking to better themselves mentally. They have tried alternatives before reaching out for help, and they just can't find the right treatment for them. I want to work with someone who is going to work with me to better themselves through treatment, whether that includes therapy, medications, or both
My ideal client would include someone who is looking to better themselves mentally. They have tried alternatives before reaching out for help, and they just can't find the right treatment for them. I want to work with someone who is going to work with me to better themselves through treatment, whether that includes therapy, medications, or both
(412) 743-9072 View (412) 743-9072
Photo of Tammy Dawson, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse
Tammy Dawson
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Gibsonia, PA 15044
Dr. Tammy Dawson is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Dawson has a passion for helping people. She has been in the field of nursing since 1992 and has continued to grow in her career. Dr. Dawson enjoys getting to know her clients and developing a relationship to help improve their collaboration. Outside of work, Dr. Dawson enjoys spending time with family, knitting, weaving, and sewing.
Dr. Tammy Dawson is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Dawson has a passion for helping people. She has been in the field of nursing since 1992 and has continued to grow in her career. Dr. Dawson enjoys getting to know her clients and developing a relationship to help improve their collaboration. Outside of work, Dr. Dawson enjoys spending time with family, knitting, weaving, and sewing.
(844) 264-6945 View (844) 264-6945
Photo of Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Tammy Lobach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Bakerstown, PA 15007
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. Tammy’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 to
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. Tammy’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 to
(484) 759-7908 View (484) 759-7908
Christopher Snyder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murrysville, PA 15668
Whether you're dealing with anxiety or depression, I understand how crippling these conditions are and want to help you heal mentally, emotionally, and physically. Together, we will build a treatment plan to start not just surviving but living life to the fullest, as we all should.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety or depression, I understand how crippling these conditions are and want to help you heal mentally, emotionally, and physically. Together, we will build a treatment plan to start not just surviving but living life to the fullest, as we all should.
(724) 414-8008 View (724) 414-8008
Photo of Jason Benton, CRNP, CPHom, CST-T, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jason Benton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, CPHom, CST-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Butler, PA 16001
Psychiatric medications are life-saving and effective, yet also come with immediate and long-term risks. I can help those who are looking to reduce side effects, find medication options more suitable, or avoid the risks of conventional meds altogether. Overall, when prescribing, I aim to find a balance which allows for personal growth, vitality, and autonomy.
Psychiatric medications are life-saving and effective, yet also come with immediate and long-term risks. I can help those who are looking to reduce side effects, find medication options more suitable, or avoid the risks of conventional meds altogether. Overall, when prescribing, I aim to find a balance which allows for personal growth, vitality, and autonomy.
(724) 307-4722 View (724) 307-4722
Photo of Rahul Vasireddy, MD, Psychiatrist
Rahul Vasireddy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fox Chapel, PA 15238
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

See more therapy options for 16201

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 16201

< 10

Psychiatrists in 16201 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% Spirituality
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 16201 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 16201?

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.