Psychiatrists in 18018

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.
(610) 904-8255 View (610) 904-8255
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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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
Serves Area
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 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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Amanda Decker - LifeStance Health, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18902
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(267) 754-3665 View (267) 754-3665
Photo of Tamoya Thomas, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamoya Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Bobbie Posmontier, PhD, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Bobbie Posmontier
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with expertise in psychotherapy, complementary modalities, and psychotropic medication support tailored to women across the lifespan. With my dual certification as both a nurse midwife and family psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a unique understanding of women’s psychiatric disorders related to hormonal and neurobiological imbalances from menarche through menopause such as premenstrual mood disorder, antenatal and postpartum mood disorders, as well as peri- and post-menopausal psychiatric disturbances. My goal is to partner with you to explore ways to help you achieve physical, mental and spiritual balance in your life
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with expertise in psychotherapy, complementary modalities, and psychotropic medication support tailored to women across the lifespan. With my dual certification as both a nurse midwife and family psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a unique understanding of women’s psychiatric disorders related to hormonal and neurobiological imbalances from menarche through menopause such as premenstrual mood disorder, antenatal and postpartum mood disorders, as well as peri- and post-menopausal psychiatric disturbances. My goal is to partner with you to explore ways to help you achieve physical, mental and spiritual balance in your life
(215) 488-7277 View (215) 488-7277
Photo of Abby McFerran, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abby McFerran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
Hi! My name is Abby McFerran, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide care and a listening ear to patients of all ages struggling with mental health problems. I am qualified to diagnose mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, borderline, ADHD, eating disorders, and many others while prescribing treatment, which may include medication.
Hi! My name is Abby McFerran, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide care and a listening ear to patients of all ages struggling with mental health problems. I am qualified to diagnose mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, borderline, ADHD, eating disorders, and many others while prescribing treatment, which may include medication.
(267) 813-3007 View (267) 813-3007
Photo of Samantha Odonnell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Odonnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting patients virtually in both PA/NJ. As a mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals who have often faced significant challenges in their journey toward mental wellness. My ideal client is someone who has navigated through various healthcare providers and treatments, yet still finds themselves struggling to achieve the relief they desperately seek. Someone seeking holistic mental health care that goes beyond merely managing symptoms and focuses on overall mental well-being.
Accepting patients virtually in both PA/NJ. As a mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals who have often faced significant challenges in their journey toward mental wellness. My ideal client is someone who has navigated through various healthcare providers and treatments, yet still finds themselves struggling to achieve the relief they desperately seek. Someone seeking holistic mental health care that goes beyond merely managing symptoms and focuses on overall mental well-being.
(267) 641-9758 View (267) 641-9758
Photo of Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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.
(267) 309-2843 View (267) 309-2843
Photo of Adjoa Amoah, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adjoa Amoah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Harleysville, PA 19438
Hello and Welcome! Are you looking for services for you or your child? Our practice is accepting new clients. Call us for psychiatric evaluations, medication treatment, coaching, yoga, nutritional assessment & supplementation, herbs, Ayurveda, and genetic testing. A thorough history, including that of traumatic experiences helps us identify the root cause of the presenting problem for a more comprehensive approach. Additional support for parents is included in our mindful parent coaching sessions. We address behavioral challenges in children including children diagnosed with autism.
Hello and Welcome! Are you looking for services for you or your child? Our practice is accepting new clients. Call us for psychiatric evaluations, medication treatment, coaching, yoga, nutritional assessment & supplementation, herbs, Ayurveda, and genetic testing. A thorough history, including that of traumatic experiences helps us identify the root cause of the presenting problem for a more comprehensive approach. Additional support for parents is included in our mindful parent coaching sessions. We address behavioral challenges in children including children diagnosed with autism.
(267) 668-0205 View (267) 668-0205
Photo of Ashley Philip, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Philip
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Ashley helps children, teens, and adults with comprehensive psychiatric assessments and personalized treatment plans. Our goals together include achieving emotional stability, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and improving quality of life.
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Ashley helps children, teens, and adults with comprehensive psychiatric assessments and personalized treatment plans. Our goals together include achieving emotional stability, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and improving quality of life.
(215) 364-1400 View (215) 364-1400
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
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Quakertown, PA 18951
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(215) 608-6928 View (215) 608-6928
Photo of Sheila Jourdain, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Patients! I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I develop comprehensive and thorough treatment plans. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals 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) 995-6204 View (610) 995-6204
Photo of Abby Reineck, MD, Psychiatrist
Abby Reineck
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Abby Reineck currently serves as an outpatient child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has been practicing for eleven years. Dr. Reineck's practice is primarily medication-management services, offered in conjunction with either supportive or eclectic therapy. Follow-up appointments average 30 minutes, but may be more or less. Occasionally, Dr. Reineck believes the addition of a therapist is needed and will request you bring a therapist into your care team. This will be asked of individuals if she believes it will lead to an improved clinical outcome.
Dr. Abby Reineck currently serves as an outpatient child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has been practicing for eleven years. Dr. Reineck's practice is primarily medication-management services, offered in conjunction with either supportive or eclectic therapy. Follow-up appointments average 30 minutes, but may be more or less. Occasionally, Dr. Reineck believes the addition of a therapist is needed and will request you bring a therapist into your care team. This will be asked of individuals if she believes it will lead to an improved clinical outcome.
(267) 377-4268 View (267) 377-4268
Photo of Ruosi Liu, MD, Psychiatrist
Ruosi Liu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Liu is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. She primarily focuses on medication management but integrates therapeutic support into her sessions. For more in depth therapy needs, Dr. Liu encourages patients to have their own individual therapist.
Dr. Liu is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. She primarily focuses on medication management but integrates therapeutic support into her sessions. For more in depth therapy needs, Dr. Liu encourages patients to have their own individual therapist.
(215) 618-3349 View (215) 618-3349
Photo of Dr. Taslim Zaman - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Warrington, PA 18976
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(215) 261-5365 View (215) 261-5365
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 Nitin Sheth - Zeva Care, MD, Psychiatrist
Zeva Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Zeva Care prides itself on quick appointments scheduled as soon as within 48 hours. Our patients are navigating the challenges of mental health and looking for a supportive partner in their journey. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders, seeking clarity and balance in their lives. They want to feel understood, regain control, and live with greater peace of mind. They are proactive about their well-being and recognize the importance of personalized care to achieve their goals.
Zeva Care prides itself on quick appointments scheduled as soon as within 48 hours. Our patients are navigating the challenges of mental health and looking for a supportive partner in their journey. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders, seeking clarity and balance in their lives. They want to feel understood, regain control, and live with greater peace of mind. They are proactive about their well-being and recognize the importance of personalized care to achieve their goals.
(215) 703-9256 View (215) 703-9256

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 18018

< 10

Psychiatrists in 18018 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Medication Management
75% ADHD
75% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 18018 see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 18018?

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.