Psychiatrists in 18104

I’m Susan C. Hunter, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health care. I was born and raised in the Philadelphia, PA area, and have had the opportunity to serve in various settings, including inpatient and outpatient care, psychiatric emergency rooms, crisis response centers, skilled nursing homes, memory care communities, community mental health, and private practice. My areas of specialization include treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia/sleep issues, and OCD, among other conditions.
I’m Susan C. Hunter, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health care. I was born and raised in the Philadelphia, PA area, and have had the opportunity to serve in various settings, including inpatient and outpatient care, psychiatric emergency rooms, crisis response centers, skilled nursing homes, memory care communities, community mental health, and private practice. My areas of specialization include treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia/sleep issues, and OCD, among other conditions.

Saundra Hyman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, MSN/MEd, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I am a Doctorate prepared Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. I saw a need for better mental health services. I attended University of Cincinnati and became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to strengthen and improve the lives of our clients by delivering exceptional mental health care tailored to meet their needs, and to educate our community about mental health and mental illness while working to eliminate stigma, labels and prejudice. I am dedicated to helping individuals lead mentally healthy lives. I believe that to achieve optimal health we must make a commitment to care for mind, body, and spirit.
I am a Doctorate prepared Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. I saw a need for better mental health services. I attended University of Cincinnati and became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to strengthen and improve the lives of our clients by delivering exceptional mental health care tailored to meet their needs, and to educate our community about mental health and mental illness while working to eliminate stigma, labels and prejudice. I am dedicated to helping individuals lead mentally healthy lives. I believe that to achieve optimal health we must make a commitment to care for mind, body, and spirit.

I have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Temple University where I graduated with honors. I've worked as a family nurse practitioner caring for at-risk, underserved patient populations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. When I recognized that there was a great need for psychiatric services in my area, I decided to attend Wilkes University and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to expand upon the clinical care I could provide. My goal is to provide a personalized psychiatric medication management experience for every patient in my practice.
I have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Temple University where I graduated with honors. I've worked as a family nurse practitioner caring for at-risk, underserved patient populations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. When I recognized that there was a great need for psychiatric services in my area, I decided to attend Wilkes University and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to expand upon the clinical care I could provide. My goal is to provide a personalized psychiatric medication management experience for every patient in my practice.

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.

VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website for a video/phone visit today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting Insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website for a video/phone visit today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting Insurances.

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.

Blue Mountain Psychiatry under the direction of Dr. Rifai provides comprehensive premium care integrating a thorough medical workup, psychotherapy and medication treatments. We also provide non-medication treatment options including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. We are a center for excellence in providing Ketamine treatments. Dr. Rifai is board certified in Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Medical Management and has practiced in the Greater Lehigh Valley for more than 20 years. Dr. Rifai currently serves as the president of the Lehigh Valley psychiatric Society
Blue Mountain Psychiatry under the direction of Dr. Rifai provides comprehensive premium care integrating a thorough medical workup, psychotherapy and medication treatments. We also provide non-medication treatment options including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. We are a center for excellence in providing Ketamine treatments. Dr. Rifai is board certified in Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Medical Management and has practiced in the Greater Lehigh Valley for more than 20 years. Dr. Rifai currently serves as the president of the Lehigh Valley psychiatric Society

Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.
Are you looking for answers about neurodivergence? Tired of your only option being pharmeceuticals? You have come to the right place. We offer a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to empower your super powers! I am a holistic provider who uses plants, fungus and modern medicines. I aspire to spend the extra time with my clients and ensure their success, rather than toss medications out and run to the next appointment. You will find a caring, curious, professional with me. Let's support you, together.

Bethlehem Counseling Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Andrea’s philosophy in prescribing medication for a client is “only when warranted”- and in conjunction with psychotherapy to help identify triggers to their anxiety and depression, maneuvering life’s stressors, as well as establishing healthier coping techniques. Andrea focused on treating individuals ages 10 and older in making positive changes to better their lives.
Andrea’s philosophy in prescribing medication for a client is “only when warranted”- and in conjunction with psychotherapy to help identify triggers to their anxiety and depression, maneuvering life’s stressors, as well as establishing healthier coping techniques. Andrea focused on treating individuals ages 10 and older in making positive changes to better their lives.

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.

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.

Eileen Ruth Teyim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr Eileen Teyim is an ANCC board certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner and is a graduate of Desales University, Center Valley, Pa. She strives to provide culturally informed and patient centered care tailored to each individual and values the meaningful connections made with her patients. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This allows her to treat each patient with a holistic approach. She has extensive experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia.
Dr Eileen Teyim is an ANCC board certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner and is a graduate of Desales University, Center Valley, Pa. She strives to provide culturally informed and patient centered care tailored to each individual and values the meaningful connections made with her patients. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This allows her to treat each patient with a holistic approach. She has extensive experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate, personalized care for ages 8 to 70, recognizing that mental health is vital to overall well-being. With experience across all age groups, I tailor my approach to each individual's needs, providing evidence-based treatment in a supportive, empathetic environment. I stay current with the latest research to ensure effective, high-quality care. Let’s work together to achieve your mental health goals and enhance your quality of life.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate, personalized care for ages 8 to 70, recognizing that mental health is vital to overall well-being. With experience across all age groups, I tailor my approach to each individual's needs, providing evidence-based treatment in a supportive, empathetic environment. I stay current with the latest research to ensure effective, high-quality care. Let’s work together to achieve your mental health goals and enhance your quality of life.

I am a Board Certified General Psychiatrist and a Fellowship Trained Addiction Psychiatrist who is capable of treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions. I graduated from Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and then completed a 4-year residency training program in general psychiatry and 1-year fellowship in addiction psychiatry. I've worked with a wide variety of patients. I also have extensive work experience with young adults and career focused individuals who are experiencing psychiatric symptoms.
I am a Board Certified General Psychiatrist and a Fellowship Trained Addiction Psychiatrist who is capable of treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions. I graduated from Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and then completed a 4-year residency training program in general psychiatry and 1-year fellowship in addiction psychiatry. I've worked with a wide variety of patients. I also have extensive work experience with young adults and career focused individuals who are experiencing psychiatric symptoms.

My ideal client is a transgender or LGBTQI individual, navigating identity, mental health challenges, or transitioning. They often face issues like anxiety, depression, and societal stigma, leading to a need for understanding, support, and effective treatment. Their goals include finding acceptance, enhancing self-esteem, and successfully managing their mental health during transitions. They want a compassionate ally who respects their identity and provides tailored medication recommendations and consultations. Ultimately, they seek empowerment, authenticity, and the tools to thrive in a world that often feels unwelcoming.
My ideal client is a transgender or LGBTQI individual, navigating identity, mental health challenges, or transitioning. They often face issues like anxiety, depression, and societal stigma, leading to a need for understanding, support, and effective treatment. Their goals include finding acceptance, enhancing self-esteem, and successfully managing their mental health during transitions. They want a compassionate ally who respects their identity and provides tailored medication recommendations and consultations. Ultimately, they seek empowerment, authenticity, and the tools to thrive in a world that often feels unwelcoming.

My vision is to improve the lives of those living with mental illness and provide emotional wellness for individuals and families as we strive to deliver services and support necessary to improve the quality of life for children, youth, and adults with mental illness and addictive disorders.
My vision is to improve the lives of those living with mental illness and provide emotional wellness for individuals and families as we strive to deliver services and support necessary to improve the quality of life for children, youth, and adults with mental illness and addictive disorders.

Struggles are part of being human, and despite our best efforts, sometimes it helps to have someone in your corner. I strive to create a compassionate space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered. My approach prioritizes comprehensive care, combining medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes while tailoring treatment to your unique needs. Through thoughtful collaboration, we can untangle challenges, explore new perspectives, and build tools to navigate life with confidence and clarity.
Struggles are part of being human, and despite our best efforts, sometimes it helps to have someone in your corner. I strive to create a compassionate space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered. My approach prioritizes comprehensive care, combining medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes while tailoring treatment to your unique needs. Through thoughtful collaboration, we can untangle challenges, explore new perspectives, and build tools to navigate life with confidence and clarity.

PS Psychiatry works with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults to evaluate, diagnose and ultimately find the most effective medication with the goal of symptom management. We have three psychiatric providers offering weekday, week nights and weekend availability. Our providers are compassionate, caring and easily accessible. Collaborating with client's therapists and doctors is a key part of our process. We gather all pertinent information to ensure our client's are getting the right medication.
PS Psychiatry works with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults to evaluate, diagnose and ultimately find the most effective medication with the goal of symptom management. We have three psychiatric providers offering weekday, week nights and weekend availability. Our providers are compassionate, caring and easily accessible. Collaborating with client's therapists and doctors is a key part of our process. We gather all pertinent information to ensure our client's are getting the right medication.

Michelle Zuccarini is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate and master's degree in nursing as well as a post-master's certification as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. and obtained board certification in this specialty from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She is licensed to practice in the states of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Michelle was awarded a doctoral degree in Nursing Practice from Clarion-Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
Michelle Zuccarini is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate and master's degree in nursing as well as a post-master's certification as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. and obtained board certification in this specialty from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She is licensed to practice in the states of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Michelle was awarded a doctoral degree in Nursing Practice from Clarion-Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
See more therapy options for 18104
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 18104
10+
Average cost per session
$157
Psychiatrists in 18104 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
92% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | ADHD |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
73% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 18104 see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 18104?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.