Psychiatrists in 19067

Photo of Jessica Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Jessica Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Online Only
Remission. Recovery. Renewal. How many times have you worked to digest other’s definitions of those concepts? Trying, exhaustingly, to adapt and amend yourself into that predefined role? I am interested in your definition and what those words look like in your world.
Remission. Recovery. Renewal. How many times have you worked to digest other’s definitions of those concepts? Trying, exhaustingly, to adapt and amend yourself into that predefined role? I am interested in your definition and what those words look like in your world.
(215) 586-3102 View (215) 586-3102
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, B-C
Yardley, PA 19067
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(215) 857-9593 View (215) 857-9593
Photo of Leigh Myers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, -BC
Leigh Myers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
You are more than your diagnoses. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to be one part of a multi-disciplinary team. I will provide insight into the use of medications and how they can aid you in reaching your life goals. I also provide supportive psychotherapy with medication to ensure you are being heard and your goals are being met. Your journey will be met with honesty, warmth, multidisciplinary collaboration, supportive therapy, and health education.
You are more than your diagnoses. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to be one part of a multi-disciplinary team. I will provide insight into the use of medications and how they can aid you in reaching your life goals. I also provide supportive psychotherapy with medication to ensure you are being heard and your goals are being met. Your journey will be met with honesty, warmth, multidisciplinary collaboration, supportive therapy, and health education.
(215) 987-4082 View (215) 987-4082
Photo of Donald A Rauh, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, FAPA
Donald A Rauh
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, FAPA
Yardley, PA 19067
Not accepting new clients
People may feel depressed and not know why. They may become more angry than seems warranted by the situation. They may not be able to maintain adequate focus and may miss details that compromise their performance. They may not achieve what they know they are capable of. They may feel fabulous and become incredibly productive for periods and then feel they are mired in lethargy and not know why. They may compromise their lives by spending too much time engaging in rituals. All of these problems and more can be carefully addressed by combining psychotherapy, lifestyle improvements, and with the judicious use of medications.
People may feel depressed and not know why. They may become more angry than seems warranted by the situation. They may not be able to maintain adequate focus and may miss details that compromise their performance. They may not achieve what they know they are capable of. They may feel fabulous and become incredibly productive for periods and then feel they are mired in lethargy and not know why. They may compromise their lives by spending too much time engaging in rituals. All of these problems and more can be carefully addressed by combining psychotherapy, lifestyle improvements, and with the judicious use of medications.
(215) 647-0586 View (215) 647-0586
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Yardley, PA 19067
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) 770-0128 View (215) 770-0128
Photo of Toyin Dorcas Oladele - Shallom, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shallom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Toyin Oladele, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC (Shallom LLC): Specializes in providing mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations and medication management, to children, adolescents, teens and adults with more than seventeen years of experience. This vast experience delivered with patience and compassion, in managing conditions such as anxiety, depression, psychosis among others, has yielded tremendous positive outcomes to clients.
Toyin Oladele, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC (Shallom LLC): Specializes in providing mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations and medication management, to children, adolescents, teens and adults with more than seventeen years of experience. This vast experience delivered with patience and compassion, in managing conditions such as anxiety, depression, psychosis among others, has yielded tremendous positive outcomes to clients.
(215) 703-2662 View (215) 703-2662
Photo of Davia Olympia Titus-Thomas - Peace of Mind Mental Health and Wellness LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN, MD
Peace of Mind Mental Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN, MD
Online Only
Our goal is to transform lives, one thought at a time, through mindfulness, compassion, and care. We seek to provide the least invasive, evidence-based mental health care to achieve long-term holistic wellness. Here, we prioritize your mental health. We seek to empower lives through healing the mind. We allow individuals to occupy a safe space where they can envision the brightness of today and tomorrow by training the mind to find solutions that promote growth, peace, and healing. Through confidence and resilience, you will unlock your inner strength and unleash your fullest potential, guaranteeing peace of mind.
Our goal is to transform lives, one thought at a time, through mindfulness, compassion, and care. We seek to provide the least invasive, evidence-based mental health care to achieve long-term holistic wellness. Here, we prioritize your mental health. We seek to empower lives through healing the mind. We allow individuals to occupy a safe space where they can envision the brightness of today and tomorrow by training the mind to find solutions that promote growth, peace, and healing. Through confidence and resilience, you will unlock your inner strength and unleash your fullest potential, guaranteeing peace of mind.
(267) 204-2696 View (267) 204-2696
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Yardley, PA 19067
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.
(215) 974-0175 View (215) 974-0175
Photo of Malika Abdurakhmanova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Malika Abdurakhmanova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Online Only
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am prepared to provide holistic, patient-centered care for clients needing mental health services and treatments. Through utilization of evidence-based practices, I continuously make efforts to achieve higher levels of clients’ mental wellbeing. Utilizing the integrated approaches to healing and wellness, the holistic healing is achieved when mind, body, and spirit are addressed as a single unit.
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am prepared to provide holistic, patient-centered care for clients needing mental health services and treatments. Through utilization of evidence-based practices, I continuously make efforts to achieve higher levels of clients’ mental wellbeing. Utilizing the integrated approaches to healing and wellness, the holistic healing is achieved when mind, body, and spirit are addressed as a single unit.
(215) 586-3102 View (215) 586-3102
Photo of Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
Accepting clients with insurances/private pay, virtual and in person! Hi, my name is Elizabeth, and I’m a UPenn trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for ages 18 to 65. I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PMDD, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, among other conditions. The mission at Impak Psychiatry is empowering you to live your best life. Core Philosophy is to minimize medication use, while optimizing your quality of life. I take a collaborative and integrative approach. For more info, please visit my website at impakpsychiatry(dot)com.
Accepting clients with insurances/private pay, virtual and in person! Hi, my name is Elizabeth, and I’m a UPenn trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for ages 18 to 65. I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PMDD, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, among other conditions. The mission at Impak Psychiatry is empowering you to live your best life. Core Philosophy is to minimize medication use, while optimizing your quality of life. I take a collaborative and integrative approach. For more info, please visit my website at impakpsychiatry(dot)com.
(267) 214-5505 View (267) 214-5505
Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Yardley, PA 19067
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
(215) 712-8995 View (215) 712-8995
Photo of Nichelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Yardley, PA 19067
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique and goals. They are looking for a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique and goals. They are looking for a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
(267) 214-8636 View (267) 214-8636
Photo of Momo Cole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CRNP
Momo Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CRNP
Yardley, PA 19067
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is grappling with various challenges that affect their overall functioning and well-being. They may be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, leading to difficulties in maintaining focus and organization in their daily lives. Anxiety often clouds their thoughts, manifesting in overwhelming worries and a sense of restlessness, while depression may have seeped into their outlook on life, sapping their motivation and joy. This client likely struggles with self-esteem issues, feeling inadequate or unworthy, which can be compounded by stress from various sources.
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is grappling with various challenges that affect their overall functioning and well-being. They may be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, leading to difficulties in maintaining focus and organization in their daily lives. Anxiety often clouds their thoughts, manifesting in overwhelming worries and a sense of restlessness, while depression may have seeped into their outlook on life, sapping their motivation and joy. This client likely struggles with self-esteem issues, feeling inadequate or unworthy, which can be compounded by stress from various sources.
(215) 712-8949 View (215) 712-8949
Photo of Teri Hardgrove, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Teri Hardgrove
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Yardley, PA 19067
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat psychiatric conditions using a holistic and bio-psycho-social approach. My goal is to restore feelings of stability and well-being and I work with each patient to develop a specialized plan of care. My training has offered me the ability to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I understand that starting medication can have its concerns and I strive to provide education and counseling during this process.
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat psychiatric conditions using a holistic and bio-psycho-social approach. My goal is to restore feelings of stability and well-being and I work with each patient to develop a specialized plan of care. My training has offered me the ability to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I understand that starting medication can have its concerns and I strive to provide education and counseling during this process.
(267) 309-2815 View (267) 309-2815
Photo of Catherine Mazzie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Catherine Mazzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Yardley, PA 19067
Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.
Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.
(267) 834-0637 View (267) 834-0637
Photo of Biju Basil, Psychiatrist, MD
Biju Basil
Psychiatrist, MD
Yardley, PA 19067
Dr.Basil is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who practices in Yardley PA. He specializes in the treatment of different Mental Health Conditions including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, ADHD, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Substance abuse, Dual Diagnosis disorders,
Dr.Basil is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who practices in Yardley PA. He specializes in the treatment of different Mental Health Conditions including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, ADHD, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Substance abuse, Dual Diagnosis disorders,
(215) 352-4311 View (215) 352-4311
Photo of Ricardo J. Fernandez, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, ABAM
Ricardo J. Fernandez
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, ABAM
Serves Area
Our Mission is to provide highly individualized psychiatric care by specially trained experts. Working closely with the patient, the patient's family and other healthcare professionals, we develop a comprehensive treatment plan addressing biological, hormonal and psychosocial needs.In developing a clear diagnosis, we utilize comprenesive psychiatric testing in the evaluation phase to determine appropriate and effective treatment.Highly regarded within his field, Dr. Fernandez has almost 30 years experience in psychopharmacolgy and women's health. Quality of care is a priority.Patients are provided with round-the-clock access to their treating clinicians for emergencies and urgencies that cannot wait.
Our Mission is to provide highly individualized psychiatric care by specially trained experts. Working closely with the patient, the patient's family and other healthcare professionals, we develop a comprehensive treatment plan addressing biological, hormonal and psychosocial needs.In developing a clear diagnosis, we utilize comprenesive psychiatric testing in the evaluation phase to determine appropriate and effective treatment.Highly regarded within his field, Dr. Fernandez has almost 30 years experience in psychopharmacolgy and women's health. Quality of care is a priority.Patients are provided with round-the-clock access to their treating clinicians for emergencies and urgencies that cannot wait.
(609) 318-3045 View (609) 318-3045
Photo of Stephanie Reesman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Stephanie Reesman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Stephanie Reesman is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) as well as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who practices in Pennsylvania. Stephanie is a graduate of Walden University, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health. Stephanie has been treating the Psychiatric population since 2005 and has worked with adults and children throughout these years. Stephanie is very passionate about providing quality, compassionate care across the lifespan.
Stephanie Reesman is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) as well as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who practices in Pennsylvania. Stephanie is a graduate of Walden University, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health. Stephanie has been treating the Psychiatric population since 2005 and has worked with adults and children throughout these years. Stephanie is very passionate about providing quality, compassionate care across the lifespan.
(484) 246-8705 View (484) 246-8705
Photo of Ann Elizabeth Nolan - Mentis Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Mentis Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online- Tele-health psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. Her training has prepared her to treat patients across the lifespan -offering consultation, evaluation, and medication management for ages six through seniors.
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online- Tele-health psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. Her training has prepared her to treat patients across the lifespan -offering consultation, evaluation, and medication management for ages six through seniors.
(267) 682-7123 View (267) 682-7123
Photo of Katrina Shchupak, Psychiatrist, MD
Katrina Shchupak
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatrist with a focus on integrative care. I believe in treating the person as a whole, rather than a cluster of symptoms to simply medicate. It is impossible to truly address emotional needs if attention is not paid to the human complexity behind them. I am also a strong believer in the importance of lifestyle modification as a part of meaningful psychiatric treatment - we cannot simply take a pill and feel better if we are not also addressing a healthy functioning of our bodies. This includes treating vitamin/mineral deficiencies, adjusting dietary stressors, normalizing low hormone levels, etc.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist with a focus on integrative care. I believe in treating the person as a whole, rather than a cluster of symptoms to simply medicate. It is impossible to truly address emotional needs if attention is not paid to the human complexity behind them. I am also a strong believer in the importance of lifestyle modification as a part of meaningful psychiatric treatment - we cannot simply take a pill and feel better if we are not also addressing a healthy functioning of our bodies. This includes treating vitamin/mineral deficiencies, adjusting dietary stressors, normalizing low hormone levels, etc.
(267) 715-9743 View (267) 715-9743

See more therapy options for 19067

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 19067

20+

Average cost per session

$207

Psychiatrists in 19067 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
92% Depression
92% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% ADHD
83% Bipolar Disorder
79% Sleep or Insomnia
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
88% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 19067 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 19067?

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.