Psychiatrists in 16335

Photo of Dr. Kirsten George, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kirsten George
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am in network with Highmark, Blue Cross PPO, and UPMC insurances. I am committed to providing high quality, individualized, evidenced-based treatment to adults with mental health issues. I place great value on the relationship between the doctor and patient and strive to understand the needs of my patients in order to make decisions based on their treatment goals. I approach patients with a holistic mindset, taking into account the myriad of factors that may be causing mental health symptoms, including lifestyle choices, nutrition, exercise, relationship issues, and medical conditions.
I am in network with Highmark, Blue Cross PPO, and UPMC insurances. I am committed to providing high quality, individualized, evidenced-based treatment to adults with mental health issues. I place great value on the relationship between the doctor and patient and strive to understand the needs of my patients in order to make decisions based on their treatment goals. I approach patients with a holistic mindset, taking into account the myriad of factors that may be causing mental health symptoms, including lifestyle choices, nutrition, exercise, relationship issues, and medical conditions.
(814) 267-8502 View (814) 267-8502

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Chijioke Nwankwo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chijioke Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. CJ. Nwankwo is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who assesses and treats individual with mental disorders across the lifespan. He has experience in both inpatient and outpatient care delivery. As part of multidisciplinary care approach, he works in collaboration with psychiatrics and other advanced healthcare providers to provide an evidence base intervention that will optimize your resilience to mental well-being.
Dr. CJ. Nwankwo is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who assesses and treats individual with mental disorders across the lifespan. He has experience in both inpatient and outpatient care delivery. As part of multidisciplinary care approach, he works in collaboration with psychiatrics and other advanced healthcare providers to provide an evidence base intervention that will optimize your resilience to mental well-being.
(610) 546-7285 View (610) 546-7285
Photo of Dr. Joshua C Taylor, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Joshua C Taylor
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, concentration issues, or even generally wondering if there is something limiting your ability to enjoy life? If so, it may be time to consider a psychiatric evaluation. The past few years have seen so many changes in the world around us and as a result a shift in the nature of our mental health. These hard times don’t need to be faced alone. It’s up to all of us to ensure that we seek the treatment and support necessary to fully enjoy life.
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, concentration issues, or even generally wondering if there is something limiting your ability to enjoy life? If so, it may be time to consider a psychiatric evaluation. The past few years have seen so many changes in the world around us and as a result a shift in the nature of our mental health. These hard times don’t need to be faced alone. It’s up to all of us to ensure that we seek the treatment and support necessary to fully enjoy life.
(814) 648-6128 View (814) 648-6128
Photo of Kimberlie Taylor - Tranquil & Serene Psychiatry , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tranquil & Serene Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are open to sharing their lives with me. They are open to education and exploring treatment plans that suit their needs. My goal is to provide options for patients to be empowered. We can also use Genesight testing to help determine how your DNA interacts with medications to determine best treatment options. Genesight test results are usually returned within 48 hours, making it a fast efficient tool for selection of medications.
My ideal clients are open to sharing their lives with me. They are open to education and exploring treatment plans that suit their needs. My goal is to provide options for patients to be empowered. We can also use Genesight testing to help determine how your DNA interacts with medications to determine best treatment options. Genesight test results are usually returned within 48 hours, making it a fast efficient tool for selection of medications.
(484) 946-4199 View (484) 946-4199
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.
(814) 648-6701 View (814) 648-6701
Photo of Michael Okoye, PhD, CRNP, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Okoye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, CRNP, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Michael, and I warmly welcome you to Growtherapy. I am nationally board certified as both Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I come to you with over ten (10) year experience providing psychiatric/mental and behavioral healthcare in various clinical environments (including inpatient, outpatient, long term care facilities, and correctional facilities). My experiences include one year as the lead faculty (Assistant Professor) in a psychiatric/mental health nursing program where I taught every psychiatric pathology or disorder and prepared senior students for board exams.
I am Dr. Michael, and I warmly welcome you to Growtherapy. I am nationally board certified as both Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I come to you with over ten (10) year experience providing psychiatric/mental and behavioral healthcare in various clinical environments (including inpatient, outpatient, long term care facilities, and correctional facilities). My experiences include one year as the lead faculty (Assistant Professor) in a psychiatric/mental health nursing program where I taught every psychiatric pathology or disorder and prepared senior students for board exams.
(412) 274-8448 View (412) 274-8448
Photo of Dr. Peace Peters, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Peace Peters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-level board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Dr. Peace specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area. Her experience includes working in; general medicine and surgery, bariatric surgery, telemetry, orthopedics, pediatric medicine, Critical Care Unit and long-term care.
Dr. Peace Peters is a doctoral-level board-certified family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Dr. Peace specializes across lifespans, treating all ages from children, adolescents, adults and geriatric mental health and wellness. Dr. Peters serves Maryland and Virginia. She has over 20 years of healthcare experience working in different healthcare settings in inpatient and outpatient in the DMV area. Her experience includes working in; general medicine and surgery, bariatric surgery, telemetry, orthopedics, pediatric medicine, Critical Care Unit and long-term care.
(571) 462-2407 View (571) 462-2407
Photo of Kimberlee Renee Adams, PMHNP, , CRNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberlee Renee Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, , CRNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My expertise lies in delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I am dedicated to addressing a range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
My expertise lies in delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I am dedicated to addressing a range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
(267) 209-8196 View (267) 209-8196
Photo of Wanda Rodriguez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wanda Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello there! I am a nurse practitioner who has worked in mental health for over 15 years and currently practices in Central Pennsylvania. My career began with crisis intervention and managing acute mental health emergencies. Expanding my scope, I later moved into case management, gaining a deep understanding of mental health conditions, the impact of the environment, and the importance of individualized care.
Hello there! I am a nurse practitioner who has worked in mental health for over 15 years and currently practices in Central Pennsylvania. My career began with crisis intervention and managing acute mental health emergencies. Expanding my scope, I later moved into case management, gaining a deep understanding of mental health conditions, the impact of the environment, and the importance of individualized care.
(717) 584-8963 View (717) 584-8963
Photo of Katherine Benson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katherine Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My passion for collaboration and client advocacy, combined with nearly 15 years' nursing and mental health experience, means that I am uniquely suited to help clients identify challenges, and enabling them to meet their mental health goals. While all visits are provided via telehealth, I reside in the community I serve, and I believe that enabling individuals to grow stronger also enables communities to grow stronger. Through my years spent in training and practicing Psychiatry-Mental Health Nursing, I have learned that the solution is rarely as simple as taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
My passion for collaboration and client advocacy, combined with nearly 15 years' nursing and mental health experience, means that I am uniquely suited to help clients identify challenges, and enabling them to meet their mental health goals. While all visits are provided via telehealth, I reside in the community I serve, and I believe that enabling individuals to grow stronger also enables communities to grow stronger. Through my years spent in training and practicing Psychiatry-Mental Health Nursing, I have learned that the solution is rarely as simple as taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
(570) 514-4263 View (570) 514-4263
Photo of Kaitlyn Leone, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kaitlyn Leone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Focusing primarily on mental health, my ideal client would be someone who is struggling with emotional or psychological challenges but is motivated to seek meaningful healing and improvement. They may be dealing with conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood disorders, or they may feel overwhelmed by stress, burnout, or life transitions.
Focusing primarily on mental health, my ideal client would be someone who is struggling with emotional or psychological challenges but is motivated to seek meaningful healing and improvement. They may be dealing with conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood disorders, or they may feel overwhelmed by stress, burnout, or life transitions.
(814) 860-3179 View (814) 860-3179

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Nicole Snyder - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Nicole Snyder - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Nicole received her undergraduate degree in psychology from West Virginia University. From there, she moved to Connecticut where she completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Saint Joseph. During her undergraduate years, Nicole volunteered with various community outreach programs specializing in psychiatry. In addition, she completed internships in crisis intervention and spent two years working in an inpatient acute care psychiatric hospital at WVU Medicine.
Nicole received her undergraduate degree in psychology from West Virginia University. From there, she moved to Connecticut where she completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Saint Joseph. During her undergraduate years, Nicole volunteered with various community outreach programs specializing in psychiatry. In addition, she completed internships in crisis intervention and spent two years working in an inpatient acute care psychiatric hospital at WVU Medicine.
(412) 214-0042 View (412) 214-0042
Photo of Geena Edmonds, MSPAS, PA-C, CAQ-PSY, Physician Assistant
Geena Edmonds
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C, CAQ-PSY
Verified Verified
Monaca, PA 15061
I am a licensed, board-certified physician assistant practicing in psychiatry. I thoroughly enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds and needs. My ideal client is someone who wants to feel their best! My specialty focuses on depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, trauma, and bipolar disorders. I have experience working with children (ages 7+), teenagers & adults for their mental health journey.
I am a licensed, board-certified physician assistant practicing in psychiatry. I thoroughly enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds and needs. My ideal client is someone who wants to feel their best! My specialty focuses on depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, trauma, and bipolar disorders. I have experience working with children (ages 7+), teenagers & adults for their mental health journey.
(724) 578-5306 View (724) 578-5306
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 Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment online today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment online today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
(833) 303-0897 View (833) 303-0897
Photo of Kristen Cheslick - SolCentered Integrative Psychiatric Care, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SolCentered Integrative Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
My name is Dr. Kristen Cheslick and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan (children/adolescents, adults and older adults). My available services include mental health evaluations, medication management, brief solution-based/supportive psychotherapy, and appropriate referrals as necessary. Email my office for an appointment today at contact@solcenteredcare.com. We have appointments available Monday through Friday and some weekends.
My name is Dr. Kristen Cheslick and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan (children/adolescents, adults and older adults). My available services include mental health evaluations, medication management, brief solution-based/supportive psychotherapy, and appropriate referrals as necessary. Email my office for an appointment today at contact@solcenteredcare.com. We have appointments available Monday through Friday and some weekends.
(272) 200-4618 View (272) 200-4618
Photo of Dr. Monica Conn, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Monica Conn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15233
I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult and challenging. I want you to know that you are not alone, and there is hope for your recovery. I know that dealing with mental health conditions can be overwhelming and affect various aspects of your life, including work, relationships, and daily activities. However, I am here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. I want to assure you that seeking mental health care is a brave and proactive step towards healing.
I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult and challenging. I want you to know that you are not alone, and there is hope for your recovery. I know that dealing with mental health conditions can be overwhelming and affect various aspects of your life, including work, relationships, and daily activities. However, I am here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. I want to assure you that seeking mental health care is a brave and proactive step towards healing.
(412) 946-8045 View (412) 946-8045
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 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 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

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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 16335

< 10

Psychiatrists in 16335 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Highmark
100% University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hea

How Psychiatrists in 16335 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 16335?

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.