Psychiatrists in 19446

Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
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) 883-9770 View (215) 883-9770
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(215) 608-6928 View (215) 608-6928
Photo of Catherine Mazzie, MSN , CRNP , FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Mazzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , CRNP , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
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) 440-7645 View (267) 440-7645
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(267) 367-6865 View (267) 367-6865
Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, LPN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Njoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPN, CNP
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
Struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, or schizophrenia? Finding it challenging to manage your mental health despite your best efforts? As a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I specialize in medication management and psychoeducation. My goal is to help you regain control, alleviate symptoms, and improve your daily functioning so you can lead a fulfilling and healthy life.
Struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, or schizophrenia? Finding it challenging to manage your mental health despite your best efforts? As a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I specialize in medication management and psychoeducation. My goal is to help you regain control, alleviate symptoms, and improve your daily functioning so you can lead a fulfilling and healthy life.
(267) 422-1794 View (267) 422-1794
Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
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) 372-8108 View (215) 372-8108
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(267) 729-9418 View (267) 729-9418
Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
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 goals. They seek 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 goals. They seek 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.
(215) 631-3346 View (215) 631-3346
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
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.
(267) 422-1794 View (267) 422-1794
Photo of Julianne Tobin - Brightside Medical Associates, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Medical Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
WE NOW PROVIDE TELEHEALTH FOR ALL OF PENNSYLVANIA! MED MANAGEMENT AT THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME! WE ALSO DO GENETIC TESTING TO HELP DETERMINE WHAT MEDICATION WORKS BEST FOR YOU!! Brightside Medical Associates (BMA) is a Private Psychiatric practice which services children, adolescents, teens and adults. BMA prides itself in providing high quality psychopharmacologic medication management services to individuals suffering from various mental health disorders. By using the most up to date resources and wholistic patient-first methods, BMA’s goal is to provide our clients with opportunities for an improved quality of life.
WE NOW PROVIDE TELEHEALTH FOR ALL OF PENNSYLVANIA! MED MANAGEMENT AT THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME! WE ALSO DO GENETIC TESTING TO HELP DETERMINE WHAT MEDICATION WORKS BEST FOR YOU!! Brightside Medical Associates (BMA) is a Private Psychiatric practice which services children, adolescents, teens and adults. BMA prides itself in providing high quality psychopharmacologic medication management services to individuals suffering from various mental health disorders. By using the most up to date resources and wholistic patient-first methods, BMA’s goal is to provide our clients with opportunities for an improved quality of life.
(484) 552-9319 View (484) 552-9319
Photo of Patricia M Allen, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia M Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My passion is serving those with addiction and mental health concerns. It is my goal to instill hope and provide the medical tools necessary to support the journey to wellness.
My passion is serving those with addiction and mental health concerns. It is my goal to instill hope and provide the medical tools necessary to support the journey to wellness.
(215) 709-8320 View (215) 709-8320

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sidra Ghafoor, MD, Psychiatrist
Sidra Ghafoor
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I believe that healing begins at the level of mind, body and spirit, integrating a patient’s whole life experience into the treatment plan. I provide comprehensive treatment options combining psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities. Working with me you will develop insight into yourself and begin to effect change and make progress in the problem areas of your life. I am ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry. In addition to treating addictions, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders; I specialize in women's mental health.
I believe that healing begins at the level of mind, body and spirit, integrating a patient’s whole life experience into the treatment plan. I provide comprehensive treatment options combining psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities. Working with me you will develop insight into yourself and begin to effect change and make progress in the problem areas of your life. I am ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry. In addition to treating addictions, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders; I specialize in women's mental health.
(215) 253-3861 View (215) 253-3861
Photo of Lisa Harrelson, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Harrelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
My ideal client often deals with anxiety, depression, or a sense of directionlessness. They seek a supportive environment to explore their emotions and understand underlying issues. Their goals include achieving mental clarity, emotional stability, and personal growth. These clients aim to develop resilience and effective coping strategies to navigate life's challenges. They value a personalized, holistic treatment plan that combines psychotherapy and, if necessary, medication to achieve mental wellness and fulfillment.
My ideal client often deals with anxiety, depression, or a sense of directionlessness. They seek a supportive environment to explore their emotions and understand underlying issues. Their goals include achieving mental clarity, emotional stability, and personal growth. These clients aim to develop resilience and effective coping strategies to navigate life's challenges. They value a personalized, holistic treatment plan that combines psychotherapy and, if necessary, medication to achieve mental wellness and fulfillment.
(267) 329-0421 View (267) 329-0421
Photo of Cyndia Choi, MD, Psychiatrist
Cyndia Choi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Cyndia Choi has been board certified in psychiatry since 1991. Her specialty is medication management, however she believes that a therapeutic relationship is crucial to treatment. Dr. Choi values the privilege of getting to know each patient personally to develop a patient-centered plan of care. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Choi are 30 minutes to check on medication effects and provide supportive therapy. If she believes that you may benefit from additional therapy, Dr. Choi may recommend including a therapist to your treatment team. Dr. Choi also believes in a holistic approach toward helping you achieve a healthy life.
Dr. Cyndia Choi has been board certified in psychiatry since 1991. Her specialty is medication management, however she believes that a therapeutic relationship is crucial to treatment. Dr. Choi values the privilege of getting to know each patient personally to develop a patient-centered plan of care. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Choi are 30 minutes to check on medication effects and provide supportive therapy. If she believes that you may benefit from additional therapy, Dr. Choi may recommend including a therapist to your treatment team. Dr. Choi also believes in a holistic approach toward helping you achieve a healthy life.
(215) 273-9659 View (215) 273-9659
Photo of Marina Makous, MD, Psychiatrist
Marina Makous
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Exton, PA 19341
Dr. Makous a Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry-trained, Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician with extensive experience in Psychiatry and Counseling. In the past she established mental health clinics around the world, treating individuals from different cultures for a variety of mental illnesses. After a 2-year Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry at Columbia University's Department of Psychiatry, she stayed on as an Assistant Professor. She recently relocated to Exton, PA, where she treats adults with depression, anxiety, neuropsychiatric complications of Lyme, etc. Dr. Marina Makous is astute, warm, and collaborative: she listens to her patients and follows them to ensure the best treatment outcome possible.
Dr. Makous a Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry-trained, Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician with extensive experience in Psychiatry and Counseling. In the past she established mental health clinics around the world, treating individuals from different cultures for a variety of mental illnesses. After a 2-year Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry at Columbia University's Department of Psychiatry, she stayed on as an Assistant Professor. She recently relocated to Exton, PA, where she treats adults with depression, anxiety, neuropsychiatric complications of Lyme, etc. Dr. Marina Makous is astute, warm, and collaborative: she listens to her patients and follows them to ensure the best treatment outcome possible.
(484) 997-7075 View (484) 997-7075
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
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.
(856) 291-9856 View (856) 291-9856
Photo of Lauren Decker, DNP, APRN, CPNP, CPMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Decker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CPNP, CPMHS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a doctorally-trained pediatric nurse practitioner with a specialty focus in neuropsychiatric and auto-inflammatory disorders. I provide comprehensive medical evaluations and evidence-based medication management for children, adolescents, and young adults with various behavioral, mental and physical health needs. Your individualized care may include comprehensive labwork, pharmacogenomic testing and imaging as indicated to inform our consultation.
I am a doctorally-trained pediatric nurse practitioner with a specialty focus in neuropsychiatric and auto-inflammatory disorders. I provide comprehensive medical evaluations and evidence-based medication management for children, adolescents, and young adults with various behavioral, mental and physical health needs. Your individualized care may include comprehensive labwork, pharmacogenomic testing and imaging as indicated to inform our consultation.
(302) 279-5818 View (302) 279-5818
Photo of Mutiat Ajibade, MSN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mutiat Ajibade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19123
At Essential Behavioral Health LLC, your mental health is our top priority. We are committed to exercising the greatest standard of practice to meet the mental health of our clients’ needs. Empathetic psychiatric care in Pennsylvania from a private family owned psychiatric practice. Nurse Practitioner Mutiat Ajibade has over a decade of experience and knowledge in mental health dealing with children, adolescent, adults and geriatric population.
At Essential Behavioral Health LLC, your mental health is our top priority. We are committed to exercising the greatest standard of practice to meet the mental health of our clients’ needs. Empathetic psychiatric care in Pennsylvania from a private family owned psychiatric practice. Nurse Practitioner Mutiat Ajibade has over a decade of experience and knowledge in mental health dealing with children, adolescent, adults and geriatric population.
(610) 646-5620 View (610) 646-5620
Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bensalem, PA 19020
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 goals. They seek 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 goals. They seek 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.
(215) 608-2951 View (215) 608-2951
Photo of Travis Chase, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Travis Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Travis Chase is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2015. He obtained his first Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Nutrition and later went back to school completing a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Nursing with honors from his alma mater, Texas Christian University. He then graduated top of his class, earning his MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner from Samford University and Post-Master’s certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Regis College.
Travis Chase is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2015. He obtained his first Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Nutrition and later went back to school completing a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Nursing with honors from his alma mater, Texas Christian University. He then graduated top of his class, earning his MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner from Samford University and Post-Master’s certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Regis College.
(484) 799-1862 View (484) 799-1862

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 19446

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Psychiatrists in 19446 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
91% Depression
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
82% Trauma and PTSD
82% Bipolar Disorder
73% ADHD
64% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% AmeriHealth
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 19446 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 19446?

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.