Psychiatrists in 19702

Photo of Hellen Robinson, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hellen Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, DE 19702
It is my passion to help people feel better and smile. I am enthusiastic and equipped with the knowledge/clinical skills to treating all patients with mental health needs.
It is my passion to help people feel better and smile. I am enthusiastic and equipped with the knowledge/clinical skills to treating all patients with mental health needs.
(302) 240-8162 View (302) 240-8162
Photo of Olasumbo Afilaka, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olasumbo Afilaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Olasumbo Afilaka and I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing, specializing in psychiatric mental health throughout the lifespan. As an experienced healthcare provider, I adopt a comprehensive approach to care and treatment. My commitment to excellent patient care has been recognized through multiple awards. My practice focuses on various mental health conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and PTSD, among others.
My name is Olasumbo Afilaka and I'm a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a master's degree in nursing, specializing in psychiatric mental health throughout the lifespan. As an experienced healthcare provider, I adopt a comprehensive approach to care and treatment. My commitment to excellent patient care has been recognized through multiple awards. My practice focuses on various mental health conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and PTSD, among others.
(302) 360-5014 View (302) 360-5014
Photo of Helen Lancy, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
(302) 488-0020 View (302) 488-0020
Photo of Shildia L Jones, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shildia L Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As a practitioner, I love getting to know those I care for. Knowing that the care I provide can have a positive impact in a person’s life is what inspires me to come to work every day. I strive to provide the most up-to-date evidence-based care utilizing psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to ensure positive treatment outcomes and long-term success for my patients.
As a practitioner, I love getting to know those I care for. Knowing that the care I provide can have a positive impact in a person’s life is what inspires me to come to work every day. I strive to provide the most up-to-date evidence-based care utilizing psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to ensure positive treatment outcomes and long-term success for my patients.
(302) 592-2918 View (302) 592-2918
Photo of Edwin Sokalski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edwin Sokalski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19702
I am passionate about providing quality care to my patients. I have experience treating adults, teenagers and children. I work as a team with my patients and their families to improve lives through thoughtful medication management. Working together with my patients we are able to more effectively treat the whole person.
I am passionate about providing quality care to my patients. I have experience treating adults, teenagers and children. I work as a team with my patients and their families to improve lives through thoughtful medication management. Working together with my patients we are able to more effectively treat the whole person.
(302) 204-1302 View (302) 204-1302
Photo of Esther Nchore - Mindful Reflections LLC, MSN, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindful Reflections LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19702
Accepting new patients! Everyone deserves to live a life that leaves them excited to wake up every morning. As a Board Certified PMHNP, I have a passion for patient-centered, holistic, and collaborative approaches to care. Dignity, Compassion, Acceptance, Respect and Empowerment are my core values.I have compassion towards the community I serve, accept everyone’s right to compassionate care, respect everyone’s unique path towards their own healing and strongly believe everyone has a voice to participate in their own care. I provide care to Adolescent and Adults suffering from Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar disorder and much more
Accepting new patients! Everyone deserves to live a life that leaves them excited to wake up every morning. As a Board Certified PMHNP, I have a passion for patient-centered, holistic, and collaborative approaches to care. Dignity, Compassion, Acceptance, Respect and Empowerment are my core values.I have compassion towards the community I serve, accept everyone’s right to compassionate care, respect everyone’s unique path towards their own healing and strongly believe everyone has a voice to participate in their own care. I provide care to Adolescent and Adults suffering from Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar disorder and much more
(302) 306-5346 View (302) 306-5346
Photo of David Torres, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, DE 19702
If you are battling with mental health challenges and seeking to reclaim your life, I invite you to reach out. My approach is centered on building a genuine connection with you, guiding you through difficult times via medication management and talk therapy. I work with individuals across the lifespan, from children to adults, and my diverse background offers me a unique perspective on the experiences of those in public safety emergency services, military service, medical professions, and special needs caregivers.
If you are battling with mental health challenges and seeking to reclaim your life, I invite you to reach out. My approach is centered on building a genuine connection with you, guiding you through difficult times via medication management and talk therapy. I work with individuals across the lifespan, from children to adults, and my diverse background offers me a unique perspective on the experiences of those in public safety emergency services, military service, medical professions, and special needs caregivers.
(302) 532-6556 View (302) 532-6556
Photo of Justina Adoh-Ojie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Justina Adoh-Ojie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Provider (PMHNP-BC). I aim to establish a client-provider relationship and provide you with sincere, personalized care. When I am not seeing patients, I participate in religious activities as a Christian and socialize with friends and family.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Provider (PMHNP-BC). I aim to establish a client-provider relationship and provide you with sincere, personalized care. When I am not seeing patients, I participate in religious activities as a Christian and socialize with friends and family.
(302) 291-4342 View (302) 291-4342
Photo of Antonio Pedulla, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Antonio Pedulla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19702
As a mental health provider my goal is to offer easy and affordable access to mental health services, especially for individuals who are hesitant to seek help. I provide a non-judgmental atmosphere that allows patients to speak openly about their current concerns so that we may cooperatively determine the best path forward for treatment
As a mental health provider my goal is to offer easy and affordable access to mental health services, especially for individuals who are hesitant to seek help. I provide a non-judgmental atmosphere that allows patients to speak openly about their current concerns so that we may cooperatively determine the best path forward for treatment
(610) 998-3902 View (610) 998-3902
Photo of Marina Che, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse
Marina Che
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19702
Marina Che, PMHNP is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, offers compassionate and expert care to individuals in Delaware. Her approach combines thorough psychiatric evaluations with evidencebased treatments, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs. Marina provides a supportive and empathetic environment where patients can openly discuss their concerns, facilitating effective treatment for various mental health conditions. Specializing in medication management, Marina excels in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Marina Che, PMHNP is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, offers compassionate and expert care to individuals in Delaware. Her approach combines thorough psychiatric evaluations with evidencebased treatments, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs. Marina provides a supportive and empathetic environment where patients can openly discuss their concerns, facilitating effective treatment for various mental health conditions. Specializing in medication management, Marina excels in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
(302) 216-8908 View (302) 216-8908
Photo of Ellin Wade - LifeStance Health, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19702
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(302) 554-9643 View (302) 554-9643
Photo of Bryan Espinet - Bryan Espinet, PMHNP - A to Z Psychiatry LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bryan Espinet, PMHNP - A to Z Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to a space where healing begins. Hi! I’m Bryan, and I help high-achieving professionals, immigrants, children and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma to overcome challenges and discover their best selves. I understand the pressures of success and the struggles of adapting to new cultures, and I'm dedicated to helping you find balance and fulfillment. Using an integrative approach, I offer personalized care that connects mind, body, and spirit. I believe you are whole; deep within you exists all you need to heal and grow. It's my mission to guide you back to that space and unlock your full potential.
Welcome to a space where healing begins. Hi! I’m Bryan, and I help high-achieving professionals, immigrants, children and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma to overcome challenges and discover their best selves. I understand the pressures of success and the struggles of adapting to new cultures, and I'm dedicated to helping you find balance and fulfillment. Using an integrative approach, I offer personalized care that connects mind, body, and spirit. I believe you are whole; deep within you exists all you need to heal and grow. It's my mission to guide you back to that space and unlock your full potential.
(813) 547-6086 View (813) 547-6086
Photo of Antonio Pedulla - KetaMinds, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
KetaMinds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, DE 19702
If you suffer from Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, grief or other mental health concerns and have tried a variety of medications and treatments without success, ketamine may be a good option for you. Ketamine can be utilized alone or in conjunction with your current medication regimen. It also pairs well with therapy and it works on different receptors than other medications, which can help improve mood and lower anxiety when other medications can not. It also increases the neuroplasticity of the brain, which can help you alter the negative behaviors related to anxiety and OCD.
If you suffer from Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, grief or other mental health concerns and have tried a variety of medications and treatments without success, ketamine may be a good option for you. Ketamine can be utilized alone or in conjunction with your current medication regimen. It also pairs well with therapy and it works on different receptors than other medications, which can help improve mood and lower anxiety when other medications can not. It also increases the neuroplasticity of the brain, which can help you alter the negative behaviors related to anxiety and OCD.
(410) 453-1480 View (410) 453-1480
Photo of Helen Lancy, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
(302) 313-6114 View (302) 313-6114
Photo of Bernard Akihito Addogoh - Koftown Medical Center LLC, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Koftown Medical Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19702
YES, I am accepting new clients, Both in person and online My goal is to always deliver evidence-based quality holistic healthcare to ALL Clients, and Endeavor to leave Positive Memories with all patient encounters. Because..... People Always remember how you made them "FEEL", "Not what you SAID”.
YES, I am accepting new clients, Both in person and online My goal is to always deliver evidence-based quality holistic healthcare to ALL Clients, and Endeavor to leave Positive Memories with all patient encounters. Because..... People Always remember how you made them "FEEL", "Not what you SAID”.
(302) 343-2456 View (302) 343-2456
Photo of Margaret Oliver, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margaret Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
(302) 786-7363 View (302) 786-7363
Photo of Veneline Olorife, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veneline Olorife
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19702
Veneline Olorife, PMHNP-BC, is dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journeys as a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health. She offers compassionate and expert care to patients across Delaware, specializing in diagnosing and treating a range of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Veneline utilizes a holistic approach, combining medication management with supportive talk therapy to empower her clients, helping them to prevent the escalation of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
Veneline Olorife, PMHNP-BC, is dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journeys as a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health. She offers compassionate and expert care to patients across Delaware, specializing in diagnosing and treating a range of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Veneline utilizes a holistic approach, combining medication management with supportive talk therapy to empower her clients, helping them to prevent the escalation of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
(302) 358-2291 View (302) 358-2291
Photo of Dr. Patricia Figgs - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(302) 271-6009 View (302) 271-6009
Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(302) 279-2501 View (302) 279-2501
Photo of Rachene Alexander, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachene Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Rachene Alexander, NP, is an empathetic and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College, where she cultivated her deep understanding of mental health. With experience treating both adolescents and adults with a range of mental health disorders, she approaches every individual with compassion and sensitivity.She genuinely cares about the well-being of her patients and is dedicated to providing the emotional support they need throughout their treatment journey.
Rachene Alexander, NP, is an empathetic and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College, where she cultivated her deep understanding of mental health. With experience treating both adolescents and adults with a range of mental health disorders, she approaches every individual with compassion and sensitivity.She genuinely cares about the well-being of her patients and is dedicated to providing the emotional support they need throughout their treatment journey.
(267) 633-8128 View (267) 633-8128
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 19702

30+

Average cost per session

$187

Psychiatrists in 19702 who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
85% Bipolar Disorder
76% Trauma and PTSD
68% ADHD
62% Medication Management
59% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 19702 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 19702?

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.