Psychiatrists in 18106

Photo of Afanwingong C Lafon, MSN, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Afanwingong C Lafon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning.” Hi, my name is Afanwingong Lafon, and I am here to support you. I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner and an adult-gerontology Nurse practitioner. She graduated from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and Maryville University. She endeavors to provide individualized, patient-centered and for each individual's mental health goals as well as helping them achieve a full life while incorporating cultural awareness in each individualized care and plan.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning.” Hi, my name is Afanwingong Lafon, and I am here to support you. I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner and an adult-gerontology Nurse practitioner. She graduated from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and Maryville University. She endeavors to provide individualized, patient-centered and for each individual's mental health goals as well as helping them achieve a full life while incorporating cultural awareness in each individualized care and plan.
(610) 801-1970 View (610) 801-1970
Photo of Tamoya Thomas, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tamoya Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
Hello, I am Tamoya Thomas a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, Pa. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Insomnia. I offer a range of services, including psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapeutic interventions. Psychiatric evaluations to understand your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. Medication Management guides medication options, dosages, and potential side effects. Therapeutic Intervention includes evidence-based therapy tailored to your specific concerns.
Hello, I am Tamoya Thomas a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, Pa. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Insomnia. I offer a range of services, including psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapeutic interventions. Psychiatric evaluations to understand your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. Medication Management guides medication options, dosages, and potential side effects. Therapeutic Intervention includes evidence-based therapy tailored to your specific concerns.
(610) 904-9688 View (610) 904-9688
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I develop comprehensive and thorough treatment plans. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I develop comprehensive and thorough treatment plans. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
(610) 890-9649 View (610) 890-9649
Syed H Viqar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
There is really no such thing as a ideal client. Many people struggle with internal conflicts which need to be resolved . The conflicts maybe resolved with counseling and sometime with medications when the conflict begin to affect the relationships and themselves .
There is really no such thing as a ideal client. Many people struggle with internal conflicts which need to be resolved . The conflicts maybe resolved with counseling and sometime with medications when the conflict begin to affect the relationships and themselves .
(484) 314-3592 View (484) 314-3592
Photo of Eileen Ruth Teyim, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eileen Ruth Teyim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
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. We are an approved center for Spravato (Ketamine).
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. We are an approved center for Spravato (Ketamine).
(610) 421-0243 View (610) 421-0243
Photo of Donna Surjnarine, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donna Surjnarine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Donna Surjnarine, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with certifications in family practice as well as psych-mental health. I have had the privilege of caring for adolescents dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I also work with young adults who are transitioning to college and entering the workforce. My caring nature and compassionate approach help my patients feel comfortable and safe as I provide quality, individualized mental health care.
I'm Donna Surjnarine, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with certifications in family practice as well as psych-mental health. I have had the privilege of caring for adolescents dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I also work with young adults who are transitioning to college and entering the workforce. My caring nature and compassionate approach help my patients feel comfortable and safe as I provide quality, individualized mental health care.
(610) 708-0994 View (610) 708-0994
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 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.
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.
(610) 798-1041 View (610) 798-1041
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 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) 981-2413 View (610) 981-2413
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) 215-2536 View (610) 215-2536
Arpi Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
(570) 781-5092 View (570) 781-5092

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Mitchell Kho, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mitchell Kho
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Dr. Mitchell Kho is the Founder and Medical Director of P.S. Psychiatry which is a located in Doylestown PA and King of Prussia, PA and serves all of PA both virtually or in-person. Dr. Kho and his providers work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and older adults. Their clients come to them with issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, ODD, ADHD, self harm, ODD, eating disorders, postpartum depression, mood instability, bipolar disorder, addictions, autism spectrum disorders,women in menopause, men with sexually dysfunction issues, and the mental health issues for athletes with concussions/sports injuries.
Dr. Mitchell Kho is the Founder and Medical Director of P.S. Psychiatry which is a located in Doylestown PA and King of Prussia, PA and serves all of PA both virtually or in-person. Dr. Kho and his providers work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and older adults. Their clients come to them with issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, ODD, ADHD, self harm, ODD, eating disorders, postpartum depression, mood instability, bipolar disorder, addictions, autism spectrum disorders,women in menopause, men with sexually dysfunction issues, and the mental health issues for athletes with concussions/sports injuries.
(267) 523-2983 View (267) 523-2983
Photo of Russell Bohner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Russell Bohner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Russell Bohner, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 21 years of experience working with psychiatric patients. My diverse background enables me to support individuals ranging from adolescents to the elderly. I began my career in psychiatry as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and advanced my education to earn a Master's degree in Nursing (MSN) from Wilkes University before obtaining my Nurse Practitioner (NP) license.
I am Russell Bohner, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 21 years of experience working with psychiatric patients. My diverse background enables me to support individuals ranging from adolescents to the elderly. I began my career in psychiatry as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and advanced my education to earn a Master's degree in Nursing (MSN) from Wilkes University before obtaining my Nurse Practitioner (NP) license.
(267) 710-7198 View (267) 710-7198
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment online today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment online today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
(833) 303-0897 View (833) 303-0897
Photo of Andrea E Grimshaw - Bethlehem Counseling Associates , MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bethlehem Counseling Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017
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.
(484) 559-5917 x1 View (484) 559-5917 x1
Photo of Ayanna Logan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ayanna Logan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel like your life is not where you want it to be? Are you experiencing mental difficulties and believe that this is preventing you from moving forward in your life? Well I'm here to lend you some assistance. Whatever you're going through, I want to help you work through it so you can be the best you possible.
Do you feel like your life is not where you want it to be? Are you experiencing mental difficulties and believe that this is preventing you from moving forward in your life? Well I'm here to lend you some assistance. Whatever you're going through, I want to help you work through it so you can be the best you possible.
(267) 704-8657 View (267) 704-8657
Photo of Lisa Lynn Hengen - Green Pastures Mental Health Services, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Green Pastures Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Telepsych PA statewide. New patients usually seen within 1-2 weeks. At Green Pastures Mental Health Services, we believe that care should be accessible, compassionate, & patient-centered. Our team of board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality telepsychiatric care from the comfort & convenience of your own home. Your mental well-being is our top priority, & we are here to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier life.Services We Offer: Psychiatric Assessment. Medication Management, Psychotherapy, Education.
Telepsych PA statewide. New patients usually seen within 1-2 weeks. At Green Pastures Mental Health Services, we believe that care should be accessible, compassionate, & patient-centered. Our team of board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality telepsychiatric care from the comfort & convenience of your own home. Your mental well-being is our top priority, & we are here to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier life.Services We Offer: Psychiatric Assessment. Medication Management, Psychotherapy, Education.
(814) 980-7467 View (814) 980-7467
Photo of Yun Mi Kim, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yun Mi Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Yun Mi is board certified in psychiatry. She offers diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and genetic testing services to those 18+. She believes in providing patient-led care in an environment that is validating, compassionate, and free of judgment. Yun Mi is a firm believer that diagnoses do not define an individual. Her approach to psychopharmacological treatment is evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative. She takes her time to provide optimal care, and her overall goal is to help her patients achieve psychological well-being and the quality of life they deserve.
Yun Mi is board certified in psychiatry. She offers diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and genetic testing services to those 18+. She believes in providing patient-led care in an environment that is validating, compassionate, and free of judgment. Yun Mi is a firm believer that diagnoses do not define an individual. Her approach to psychopharmacological treatment is evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative. She takes her time to provide optimal care, and her overall goal is to help her patients achieve psychological well-being and the quality of life they deserve.
(215) 631-8228 View (215) 631-8228
Photo of Emily Bernstein, MD, Psychiatrist
Emily Bernstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Hello! My name is Dr. Emily Bernstein. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with almost 20 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use and mental health, ADHD and more. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy out of my office in Paoli, PA. I strive to build a trusting relationship with all of my patients and will work with you to build a treatment plan that you feel comfortable with. I am happy to offer both in person and virtual appointments to suit your needs.
Hello! My name is Dr. Emily Bernstein. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with almost 20 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use and mental health, ADHD and more. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy out of my office in Paoli, PA. I strive to build a trusting relationship with all of my patients and will work with you to build a treatment plan that you feel comfortable with. I am happy to offer both in person and virtual appointments to suit your needs.
(484) 372-3612 View (484) 372-3612

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 18106

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Psychiatrists in 18106 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
92% ADHD
92% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
92% Bipolar Disorder
92% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Highmark
91% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 18106 see their clients

58% Online Only
42% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 18106?

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.