Psychiatrists in 17543

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Photo of Cj Nwankwo - Resilience Behavioral Health LLC, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Resilience Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
West Lawn, PA 19609
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) 553-6421 View (610) 553-6421
Photo of Renee Denobrega - Renee Family Health and Psychiatric Nurse Practiti, DNP, MD, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renee Family Health and Psychiatric Nurse Practiti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MD, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Manheim, PA 17545
Able to address most psychiatric needs- telephone consult is free, for all patient who are serious about mental health versus substance dependence, opioid maintenance program. We will work with all income levels, and insurances. initial visit $125-200, follow up $50-125. For natural alternatives (CBD oils) regimens see: www.reneepsychhealth.com
Able to address most psychiatric needs- telephone consult is free, for all patient who are serious about mental health versus substance dependence, opioid maintenance program. We will work with all income levels, and insurances. initial visit $125-200, follow up $50-125. For natural alternatives (CBD oils) regimens see: www.reneepsychhealth.com
(929) 295-7340 View (929) 295-7340
Photo of Erica Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erica Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Pennsylvania. I completed my Bachelor of Nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, and received my Master of Nursing in Psychiatry from Walden University. I have over 11 years of experience in the field of Nursing.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Pennsylvania. I completed my Bachelor of Nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, and received my Master of Nursing in Psychiatry from Walden University. I have over 11 years of experience in the field of Nursing.
(215) 598-6780 View (215) 598-6780
Photo of Tamoya Thomas, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamoya Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
Hi, I’m Tamoya Thomas, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in working with adults aged 18 and older who are navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and supported. I use a combination of evidence-based medication management and supportive psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on your goals and empowers you to thrive.
Hi, I’m Tamoya Thomas, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in working with adults aged 18 and older who are navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and supported. I use a combination of evidence-based medication management and supportive psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on your goals and empowers you to thrive.
(610) 904-9688 View (610) 904-9688
Photo of Mercedes Ankomah-Vabi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mercedes Ankomah-Vabi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dedicated and experienced Family Nurse Practitioner with a speciality in psychiatry, offering virtual consultations through Hearts and Minds Healthcare Services PLLC. I hold a master's degree in Family Health Nursing from D'Youville University, along with an advanced certificate in Psychiatry and Mental Health Nursing from Purdue University.
I am a dedicated and experienced Family Nurse Practitioner with a speciality in psychiatry, offering virtual consultations through Hearts and Minds Healthcare Services PLLC. I hold a master's degree in Family Health Nursing from D'Youville University, along with an advanced certificate in Psychiatry and Mental Health Nursing from Purdue University.
(717) 931-7187 View (717) 931-7187
Photo of Bracie Haworth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bracie Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
(717) 401-4356 View (717) 401-4356
Photo of Jamie M Stiffler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie M Stiffler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or substance use. They seek compassionate, patient-centered care to manage their symptoms, improve emotional well-being, and regain control of their lives. They want personalized support, medication management, and education to better understand their condition and treatment options. Their goal is lasting wellness, resilience, and a higher quality of life.
My ideal client is an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or substance use. They seek compassionate, patient-centered care to manage their symptoms, improve emotional well-being, and regain control of their lives. They want personalized support, medication management, and education to better understand their condition and treatment options. Their goal is lasting wellness, resilience, and a higher quality of life.
(717) 229-6534 View (717) 229-6534
Photo of Ucheena Uzouwku, MD, Psychiatrist
Ucheena Uzouwku
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatrist who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in children and adolescents but also works with adults in providing psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. In addition, I also provide ADHD testing. I develop a comprehensive and thorough treatment plan that most importantly is designed to educate my patients on mental wellness.
I am a board certified psychiatrist who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in children and adolescents but also works with adults in providing psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. In addition, I also provide ADHD testing. I develop a comprehensive and thorough treatment plan that most importantly is designed to educate my patients on mental wellness.
(610) 624-4474 View (610) 624-4474
Photo of James Young, DO, Psychiatrist
James Young
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Available within the NEXT 48 HOURS! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website for patient testimonials.
Available within the NEXT 48 HOURS! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website for patient testimonials.
(215) 608-4026 View (215) 608-4026
Photo of Dana Wiley, MD, Psychiatrist
Dana Wiley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Dana Wiley, MD and I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 25 years. I primarily treat adults using a combination of conventional psychiatry, medication, and a dose of common sense. Although I initially trained heavily in psychodynamic psychotherapy, I also appreciate that some patients will benefit from medication to treat their symptoms.
My name is Dana Wiley, MD and I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 25 years. I primarily treat adults using a combination of conventional psychiatry, medication, and a dose of common sense. Although I initially trained heavily in psychodynamic psychotherapy, I also appreciate that some patients will benefit from medication to treat their symptoms.
(717) 912-9647 View (717) 912-9647
Photo of Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis, DNP, PMHNP-B, PPCNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, PPCNP-B
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, PMHS received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her post doctorate certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania, her Master of Science degree in Nursing Administration and Research from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and her post-master's certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from West Virginia University. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Waynesburg University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Indiana University.
Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, PMHS received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her post doctorate certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania, her Master of Science degree in Nursing Administration and Research from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and her post-master's certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from West Virginia University. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Waynesburg University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Indiana University.
(717) 493-8474 View (717) 493-8474
Photo of Lilian Ogujiofor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilian Ogujiofor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Ogujiofor is a certified registered nurse practitioner with dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. She is a highly motivated, team-oriented, and compassionate provider with the goal of providing evidence-based and individualized mental health care for each patient. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from West Chester University in 2016 and obtained her MSN from La Salle University in 2013 as well as Post-Master's in PMHNP in 2021 from Regis College.
Dr. Ogujiofor is a certified registered nurse practitioner with dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. She is a highly motivated, team-oriented, and compassionate provider with the goal of providing evidence-based and individualized mental health care for each patient. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from West Chester University in 2016 and obtained her MSN from La Salle University in 2013 as well as Post-Master's in PMHNP in 2021 from Regis College.
(717) 912-8510 View (717) 912-8510
Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
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.
(717) 937-8709 View (717) 937-8709
Photo of Autumn Gardner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Autumn Gardner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner Autumn Gardner, CRNP-PMH, has worked with a variety of mental health conditions. In addition to treating depression and anxiety, she is particularly interested in treatment of PTSD and incorporating trauma-informed care into her practice. Autumn is dedicated to providing effective care through evidence based treatments that involves both medication management and psychoeducation. She currently sees adults 18 years and older.
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner Autumn Gardner, CRNP-PMH, has worked with a variety of mental health conditions. In addition to treating depression and anxiety, she is particularly interested in treatment of PTSD and incorporating trauma-informed care into her practice. Autumn is dedicated to providing effective care through evidence based treatments that involves both medication management and psychoeducation. She currently sees adults 18 years and older.
(717) 913-4678 View (717) 913-4678
Photo of Leslee Blaze, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leslee Blaze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wyomissing, PA 19610
I am Leslee Blaze, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 21 years of experience providing mental health care to individuals from late adolescence through their geriatric years. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance use disorders, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities. Before becoming a PMHNP, I worked in inpatient adolescent, adult, senior, and chemical dependency units, as well as at a large community mental health center, among other clinical settings. I take pride in utilizing and offering the best and most current evidence-based treatments to my clients.
I am Leslee Blaze, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 21 years of experience providing mental health care to individuals from late adolescence through their geriatric years. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance use disorders, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities. Before becoming a PMHNP, I worked in inpatient adolescent, adult, senior, and chemical dependency units, as well as at a large community mental health center, among other clinical settings. I take pride in utilizing and offering the best and most current evidence-based treatments to my clients.
(484) 749-8241 View (484) 749-8241
Photo of Sheila Jourdain, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Offering NEW in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Offering NEW “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
Offering NEW in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Offering NEW “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
(484) 623-5996 View (484) 623-5996
Photo of Erin Knowlton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin Knowlton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
York, PA 17408
Not accepting new clients
I have a huge passion for helping the mental health population. I often feel we just need someone who will not judge us, and will listen to what is going on, and get us back to the person we want to feel like again. I have a very upbeat, wanting to help personality and wish the best for everyone. Our goals will be to talk about what is going on, figure out what the right treatment options are, and get you back to feeling like the person you want to be. I am currently only offering medication management, but work very closely with many therapists, to ensure you are getting the well rounded care you need.
I have a huge passion for helping the mental health population. I often feel we just need someone who will not judge us, and will listen to what is going on, and get us back to the person we want to feel like again. I have a very upbeat, wanting to help personality and wish the best for everyone. Our goals will be to talk about what is going on, figure out what the right treatment options are, and get you back to feeling like the person you want to be. I am currently only offering medication management, but work very closely with many therapists, to ensure you are getting the well rounded care you need.
(717) 759-7940 View (717) 759-7940
Photo of Jhaurel Johnson White, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jhaurel Johnson White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Jhaurel Johnson White, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 6 years of experience. I work with individuals across the lifespan and specialize in the treatment of various mood disorders, substance abuse disorders, behavioral disorders, and neurocognitive disorders. I like to assist my clients beyond prescribing medications by learning about their strengths, dislikes, talents, and overall perspectives as they relate to receiving mental health treatment.
I am Jhaurel Johnson White, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 6 years of experience. I work with individuals across the lifespan and specialize in the treatment of various mood disorders, substance abuse disorders, behavioral disorders, and neurocognitive disorders. I like to assist my clients beyond prescribing medications by learning about their strengths, dislikes, talents, and overall perspectives as they relate to receiving mental health treatment.
(484) 759-8152 View (484) 759-8152
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 for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
**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 for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
(610) 890-9649 View (610) 890-9649
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
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.
(717) 971-4564 View (717) 971-4564

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Number of Psychiatrists in 17543

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Psychiatrists in 17543 who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in 17543 see their clients

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1% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 17543?

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.