Psychiatrists in 18013

Photo of Andrea Bloch, DO, Psychiatrist
Andrea Bloch
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am an experienced psychiatrist licensed to practice medicine in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management and can provide virtual sessions to people from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York who are not able to travel to East Stroudsburg. I love to get to know my patients and love to witness how my patients begin to feel "better."
I am an experienced psychiatrist licensed to practice medicine in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management and can provide virtual sessions to people from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York who are not able to travel to East Stroudsburg. I love to get to know my patients and love to witness how my patients begin to feel "better."
(570) 676-2112 View (570) 676-2112

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of David Holland - Water Gap Wellness Center, PhD, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Water Gap Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, CRNP
Verified Verified
INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING THE COMPREHENSIVE TREATMENT PROGRAM AT WATER GAP WELLNESS. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness accepts all private insurance. David is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. help@watergapwellness.com
INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING THE COMPREHENSIVE TREATMENT PROGRAM AT WATER GAP WELLNESS. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness accepts all private insurance. David is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. help@watergapwellness.com
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Photo of Andrea Castellano, MSN, CSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrea Castellano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064
My name is Andrea Castellano and I own Bella Dora Health. I offer Psychotherapy and medication management for children and adults. With 25-years of clinical nursing experience, I bring a wealth of expertise in delivering compassionate, high-quality care across a wide range of specialties, with a focused emphasis on mental health care for all ages. My passion for mental health nursing drives my commitment to delivering care that is empathetic and patient-centered. I am deeply dedicated to ensuring patients receive comprehensive, individualized care that addresses both their mental and physical health needs.
My name is Andrea Castellano and I own Bella Dora Health. I offer Psychotherapy and medication management for children and adults. With 25-years of clinical nursing experience, I bring a wealth of expertise in delivering compassionate, high-quality care across a wide range of specialties, with a focused emphasis on mental health care for all ages. My passion for mental health nursing drives my commitment to delivering care that is empathetic and patient-centered. I am deeply dedicated to ensuring patients receive comprehensive, individualized care that addresses both their mental and physical health needs.
(610) 686-8786 View (610) 686-8786
Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
(856) 807-5458 View (856) 807-5458
Photo of Akia Blandon - New Beginnings Healthcare , DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Beginnings Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
Are you seeking a holistic approach to your mental and emotional health? Dr. Akia Blandon is here to help. With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, Dr. Blandon is an Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to fostering your overall wellness. As the President and CEO of New Beginnings HealthCare, PLLC, Dr. Blandon offers compassionate care that integrates mental health support with lifestyle coaching. Her holistic practice serves individuals across NY, NJ, and PA, focusing on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Join a community that prioritizes your health. Dr. Blandon
Are you seeking a holistic approach to your mental and emotional health? Dr. Akia Blandon is here to help. With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, Dr. Blandon is an Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to fostering your overall wellness. As the President and CEO of New Beginnings HealthCare, PLLC, Dr. Blandon offers compassionate care that integrates mental health support with lifestyle coaching. Her holistic practice serves individuals across NY, NJ, and PA, focusing on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Join a community that prioritizes your health. Dr. Blandon
(272) 233-4490 View (272) 233-4490
Photo of Tauhid Zaman, MD, Psychiatrist
Tauhid Zaman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tauhid Zaman is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2024. He studied at Penn State Hershey Medical Center and Rutgers University College. Tauhid helps clients through medication management and psychotherapy. Outside of work, Tauhid enjoys photography, hiking, and DJing/music.
Tauhid Zaman is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2024. He studied at Penn State Hershey Medical Center and Rutgers University College. Tauhid helps clients through medication management and psychotherapy. Outside of work, Tauhid enjoys photography, hiking, and DJing/music.
(484) 446-5060 View (484) 446-5060
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(717) 670-8783 View (717) 670-8783
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
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
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 Tifany Semie Guirand - TSG Psychiatry LLC, MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
TSG Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry, offer virtual consultations in my private practice. This setup enables me to provide accessible and flexible care options, empowering individuals to recover and improve their quality of life.
I'm a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry, offer virtual consultations in my private practice. This setup enables me to provide accessible and flexible care options, empowering individuals to recover and improve their quality of life.
(832) 990-8608 View (832) 990-8608
Photo of Mahmoud Elfatah, MD, Psychiatrist
Mahmoud Elfatah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Mahmoud Elfatah is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2009. Dr. Elfatah believes that helping others to better their quality of life makes him happy. It's a win-win equation! Outside of work, Dr. Elfatah enjoys philosophy and politics.
Dr. Mahmoud Elfatah is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2009. Dr. Elfatah believes that helping others to better their quality of life makes him happy. It's a win-win equation! Outside of work, Dr. Elfatah enjoys philosophy and politics.
(484) 946-4293 View (484) 946-4293
Photo of Tim Kelly, MD, Psychiatrist
Tim Kelly
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Tim Kelly specializes in adult psychiatry. His practice focuses primarily on medication management but often incorporates aspects of supportive, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapies into his 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Kelly also strongly believes in working in conjunction with therapists for the best possible outcomes for his patients. He feels it is important to create strong therapeutic relationships with his patients in order to help patients achieve their treatment goals.
Dr. Tim Kelly specializes in adult psychiatry. His practice focuses primarily on medication management but often incorporates aspects of supportive, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapies into his 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Kelly also strongly believes in working in conjunction with therapists for the best possible outcomes for his patients. He feels it is important to create strong therapeutic relationships with his patients in order to help patients achieve their treatment goals.
(215) 918-7707 View (215) 918-7707
Photo of Renae DeFreitas, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renae DeFreitas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Renae is an ANCC board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with an additional board-certification as a family nurse practitioner. She is a graduate of both DeSales University and Wilkes University and is passionate about providing empathetic, individualized care to her patients. Utilizing her background in both family and psychiatric health, she approaches her patients in a compassionate and holistic manner. She encourages open discussion with patients to determine their needs and goals for treatment, and she incorporates each patient in their treatment plan to assist them in achieving healthier, balanced lives.
Renae is an ANCC board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with an additional board-certification as a family nurse practitioner. She is a graduate of both DeSales University and Wilkes University and is passionate about providing empathetic, individualized care to her patients. Utilizing her background in both family and psychiatric health, she approaches her patients in a compassionate and holistic manner. She encourages open discussion with patients to determine their needs and goals for treatment, and she incorporates each patient in their treatment plan to assist them in achieving healthier, balanced lives.
(610) 600-6190 View (610) 600-6190
Photo of Rita Shaughnessy, MD, Psychiatrist
Rita Shaughnessy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shaughnessy is boarded in adult psychiatry and has over 30 years experience. Dr. Shaughnessy practices medication management in a supportive collaborative environment. Treatment recommendations may include psychotherapy with another professional in addition to medication management.
Dr. Shaughnessy is boarded in adult psychiatry and has over 30 years experience. Dr. Shaughnessy practices medication management in a supportive collaborative environment. Treatment recommendations may include psychotherapy with another professional in addition to medication management.
(215) 584-4615 View (215) 584-4615
Photo of Joseph Ungvarsky, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Ungvarsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We are accepting new in-person or telehealth clients for medication management starting as soon as next week! Call/text or go to our website to book. We accept Highmark BCBS, BS, BC, Geisinger Commercial, Geisinger Gold, Cigna, Anthem, UHC/Optum (no Medicare or Medicaid), Aetna, and Private Pay. We do not accept Medicaid, Medicare, Geisinger Family, AmeriHealth. We offer a person-centered approach to treatment with experience across all age groups and mental health concerns. Our services include individualized medication management, and psychopharmacological interventions.
We are accepting new in-person or telehealth clients for medication management starting as soon as next week! Call/text or go to our website to book. We accept Highmark BCBS, BS, BC, Geisinger Commercial, Geisinger Gold, Cigna, Anthem, UHC/Optum (no Medicare or Medicaid), Aetna, and Private Pay. We do not accept Medicaid, Medicare, Geisinger Family, AmeriHealth. We offer a person-centered approach to treatment with experience across all age groups and mental health concerns. Our services include individualized medication management, and psychopharmacological interventions.
(570) 600-6692 View (570) 600-6692
Photo of Vivian Adiele, MSN, AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vivian Adiele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a healthcare professional with several years of experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. My passion for the medical field began during my teenage years. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in nursing from William Paterson University, New Jersey, and a master’s degree in Adult Geriatric Nursing from Rutgers University, New Jersey. I also obtained a post-master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Wilkes University. Over the years, I have worked in various areas, starting as a bedside nurse and later as a nurse practitioner, treating patients with chronic diseases.
I'm a healthcare professional with several years of experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. My passion for the medical field began during my teenage years. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in nursing from William Paterson University, New Jersey, and a master’s degree in Adult Geriatric Nursing from Rutgers University, New Jersey. I also obtained a post-master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Wilkes University. Over the years, I have worked in various areas, starting as a bedside nurse and later as a nurse practitioner, treating patients with chronic diseases.
(908) 774-1704 View (908) 774-1704
Photo of Christine Arezzi - Water Gap Wellness Outpatient Center, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Water Gap Wellness Outpatient Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Appointments available within the same week! Water Gap Wellness Outpatient Center offers the most comprehensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment in the Northeast. Water Gap Wellness outpatient center can bill insurance and offers attractive cash pay rates. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut. Christine Arezzi is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who can perform comprehensive psychiatric evaluations as well as recommend treatment options including medication management, TMS, Spravato, ADHD testing, and more as appropriate.
Appointments available within the same week! Water Gap Wellness Outpatient Center offers the most comprehensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment in the Northeast. Water Gap Wellness outpatient center can bill insurance and offers attractive cash pay rates. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut. Christine Arezzi is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who can perform comprehensive psychiatric evaluations as well as recommend treatment options including medication management, TMS, Spravato, ADHD testing, and more as appropriate.
(570) 521-9409 View (570) 521-9409
Photo of Dana Leshok, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Leshok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a double Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of collective experience in the field. Before entering the field as a clinician, I worked as a Registered Nurse (RN) for over 15 years. I am dedicated to treating adolescents, adults, and seniors experiencing a wide variety of mental health concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, sleep/insomnia, panic disorders, substance addiction, and bipolar disorder.
I am a double Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of collective experience in the field. Before entering the field as a clinician, I worked as a Registered Nurse (RN) for over 15 years. I am dedicated to treating adolescents, adults, and seniors experiencing a wide variety of mental health concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, sleep/insomnia, panic disorders, substance addiction, and bipolar disorder.
(484) 759-9324 View (484) 759-9324
Photo of Lula Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lula Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Lula Thomas, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been in practice for over ten years. I genuinely love what I do and believe in a holistic patient-centered approach. If you ever feel sad overwhelmed, lack motivation, struggle with goals, or don't enjoy things you used to, I am here to help. Sometimes, loved ones/friends see us struggle unnecessarily in certain areas of our lives but we have adapted to silent hardship. I do a complete evaluation for increased awareness, provide professional resources in many areas, and look forward to helping you find and easier path.
Hello, my name is Lula Thomas, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been in practice for over ten years. I genuinely love what I do and believe in a holistic patient-centered approach. If you ever feel sad overwhelmed, lack motivation, struggle with goals, or don't enjoy things you used to, I am here to help. Sometimes, loved ones/friends see us struggle unnecessarily in certain areas of our lives but we have adapted to silent hardship. I do a complete evaluation for increased awareness, provide professional resources in many areas, and look forward to helping you find and easier path.
(484) 613-3179 View (484) 613-3179
Photo of Thy Vo, MD, Psychiatrist
Thy Vo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Thy Vo is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, adolescents, and children. Dr. Vo approaches patients as whole human beings with the goal of providing a safe therapeutic space that will help patients understand and address their suffering as well as foster healthy emotional expression and self-awareness. Dr. Vo is collaborative with treatment needs, which may include medication and/or supportive or insight-oriented psychotherapy in 30 or 45-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Thy Vo is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of adults, adolescents, and children. Dr. Vo approaches patients as whole human beings with the goal of providing a safe therapeutic space that will help patients understand and address their suffering as well as foster healthy emotional expression and self-awareness. Dr. Vo is collaborative with treatment needs, which may include medication and/or supportive or insight-oriented psychotherapy in 30 or 45-minute follow-up visits.
(215) 515-0252 View (215) 515-0252

See more therapy options for 18013

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 18013

< 10

Psychiatrists in 18013 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD

How Psychiatrists in 18013 see their clients

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 18013?

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.