Psychiatrists in Blue Bell, PA

Photo of Charles V. Giannasio, Psychiatrist, MD
Charles V. Giannasio
Psychiatrist, MD
Blue Bell, PA 19422
In my private practice, I help people to achieve abstinence and provide tools for them to begin and maintain recovery from their addictions. Treatment includes: relapse prevention, addiction focused psychotherapy, family interventions, medications as needed, referrals for other forms of treatment.
In my private practice, I help people to achieve abstinence and provide tools for them to begin and maintain recovery from their addictions. Treatment includes: relapse prevention, addiction focused psychotherapy, family interventions, medications as needed, referrals for other forms of treatment.
(646) 583-3702 View (646) 583-3702
Photo of Dr. Jutta Vogt, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jutta Vogt
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I double board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry and very versed in treating all kinds of mental illnesses in children /adolescents and adults.
I double board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry and very versed in treating all kinds of mental illnesses in children /adolescents and adults.
(267) 369-1469 View (267) 369-1469
Photo of Colleen Lane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Colleen Lane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Ms. Lane is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with the American Nurses Credential Center (ANCC). She has over 8 years of experience in the nursing and mental health field and provides a unique and holistic approach to treating her patients. Ms. Lane completed her undergraduate nursing degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She worked for several years on a neurological and trauma unit at Hahnemann Hospital while completing her master’s degree in psychiatric and mental health at the University of Pennsylvania. She has experience in both the inpatient and outpatient psychiatric setting.
Ms. Lane is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with the American Nurses Credential Center (ANCC). She has over 8 years of experience in the nursing and mental health field and provides a unique and holistic approach to treating her patients. Ms. Lane completed her undergraduate nursing degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She worked for several years on a neurological and trauma unit at Hahnemann Hospital while completing her master’s degree in psychiatric and mental health at the University of Pennsylvania. She has experience in both the inpatient and outpatient psychiatric setting.
(484) 673-6841 View (484) 673-6841
Photo of James Yi, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
James Yi
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Dr. James Yi provides comprehensive and individualized care for his patients while exercising the highest ethical standard. He is Board Certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Yi completed an Adult Psychiatry Residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and a Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). He has presented both nationally and internationally and has over a dozen peer-reviewed publications. He was Attending Psychiatry at CHOP and Adjunct Assistant Professor at University of Pennsylvania.
Dr. James Yi provides comprehensive and individualized care for his patients while exercising the highest ethical standard. He is Board Certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Yi completed an Adult Psychiatry Residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and a Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). He has presented both nationally and internationally and has over a dozen peer-reviewed publications. He was Attending Psychiatry at CHOP and Adjunct Assistant Professor at University of Pennsylvania.
(267) 214-3542 View (267) 214-3542
Photo of Sosunmolu O Shoyinka, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFAPA
Sosunmolu O Shoyinka
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFAPA
Blue Bell, PA 19422
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and mental health issues related to medical conditions. My top priority is to ensure patients feel heard, understood, and supported. In each session, we will collaborate to develop a plan for ongoing care. I believe in the importance of teamwork and, with your consent, I’m happy to coordinate with other clinicians involved in your care to provide comprehensive support. We combine treatment modality such as medication management and therapy to help you obtain relief.
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and mental health issues related to medical conditions. My top priority is to ensure patients feel heard, understood, and supported. In each session, we will collaborate to develop a plan for ongoing care. I believe in the importance of teamwork and, with your consent, I’m happy to coordinate with other clinicians involved in your care to provide comprehensive support. We combine treatment modality such as medication management and therapy to help you obtain relief.
(484) 946-3927 View (484) 946-3927
Photo of Sosunmolu O Shoyinka, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFAPA
Sosunmolu O Shoyinka
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFAPA
2 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and mental health issues related to medical conditions. My top priority is to ensure patients feel heard, understood, and supported. In each session, we will collaborate to develop a plan for ongoing care. I believe in the importance of teamwork and, with your consent, I’m happy to coordinate with other clinicians involved in your care to provide comprehensive support. We combine treatment modality such as medication management and therapy to help you obtain relief.
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and mental health issues related to medical conditions. My top priority is to ensure patients feel heard, understood, and supported. In each session, we will collaborate to develop a plan for ongoing care. I believe in the importance of teamwork and, with your consent, I’m happy to coordinate with other clinicians involved in your care to provide comprehensive support. We combine treatment modality such as medication management and therapy to help you obtain relief.
(267) 762-1692 View (267) 762-1692
Photo of Jieun Kim, Psychiatrist, MD
Jieun Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I provide a complete range of psychiatric services including comprehensive evaluation, medication management, individual therapy and family therapy for children of all ages through adults. I understand how the complex dynamics of family affect the individual and how having a challenging child with emotional and behavioral problems affect the family system as well. I focus on the strengths of each child, individual and family, and utilize them in therapy to empower the child and their families to help them accept and overcome their issues.
I provide a complete range of psychiatric services including comprehensive evaluation, medication management, individual therapy and family therapy for children of all ages through adults. I understand how the complex dynamics of family affect the individual and how having a challenging child with emotional and behavioral problems affect the family system as well. I focus on the strengths of each child, individual and family, and utilize them in therapy to empower the child and their families to help them accept and overcome their issues.
(215) 688-5628 View (215) 688-5628
Wendy Pecorella
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist specializing in psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, when needed, in a private practice setting.
I am a child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist specializing in psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, when needed, in a private practice setting.
(215) 515-5301 View (215) 515-5301
Photo of Terri Geiger Leone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Terri Geiger Leone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Terri Leone, CRNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is accepting new clients at the office of Jeffrey Naser, MD and Associates (voted one of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021), a group practice in Berwyn, PA. Ms. Leone is trained in all areas of psychiatry, including Attention Deficit Disorders, Major Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and Trauma-Related Disorders.
Terri Leone, CRNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is accepting new clients at the office of Jeffrey Naser, MD and Associates (voted one of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021), a group practice in Berwyn, PA. Ms. Leone is trained in all areas of psychiatry, including Attention Deficit Disorders, Major Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and Trauma-Related Disorders.
(484) 285-4473 View (484) 285-4473
Photo of Maria Capriotti, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP , AGACNP
Maria Capriotti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP , AGACNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Maria Capriotti is a licensed, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in medicine and neuroscience. She provides integrative care, addressing both physiological and psychological symptoms. She enjoys collaborating with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote lasting well-being. Before specializing in psychiatry, Ms. Capriotti worked as a Nurse Practitioner in critical care, managing complex medical and surgical patients. It was during this time that she recognized the need for quality mental health care and shifted her focus to psychiatry.
Maria Capriotti is a licensed, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in medicine and neuroscience. She provides integrative care, addressing both physiological and psychological symptoms. She enjoys collaborating with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote lasting well-being. Before specializing in psychiatry, Ms. Capriotti worked as a Nurse Practitioner in critical care, managing complex medical and surgical patients. It was during this time that she recognized the need for quality mental health care and shifted her focus to psychiatry.
(484) 291-7298 View (484) 291-7298
Photo of Tracey Jones - PsychPhilly - Tracey Jones, M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
PsychPhilly - Tracey Jones, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At PsychPhilly, we’re a team of caring, dedicated women of color who are here to walk with you on your journey to healing and wholeness. We know how important it is to feel seen, heard, and understood—because we’ve been there too. Our approach to care is heartfelt, culturally attuned, and grounded in deep respect for every individual we serve. Rooted in the heart of South Philadelphia, our practice is proud to serve a vibrant, diverse community that reflects who we are. This is a space where you can show up just as you are. Together, we’ll create pathways to wellness, resilience, and joy—one step at a time.
At PsychPhilly, we’re a team of caring, dedicated women of color who are here to walk with you on your journey to healing and wholeness. We know how important it is to feel seen, heard, and understood—because we’ve been there too. Our approach to care is heartfelt, culturally attuned, and grounded in deep respect for every individual we serve. Rooted in the heart of South Philadelphia, our practice is proud to serve a vibrant, diverse community that reflects who we are. This is a space where you can show up just as you are. Together, we’ll create pathways to wellness, resilience, and joy—one step at a time.
(215) 458-2582 View (215) 458-2582

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Quakertown, PA 18951
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 Dr. Oluwatobi Menawonu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, DNP
Dr. Oluwatobi Menawonu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, DNP
Looking for holistic and a well - rounded metal health ? Search no further , we specialize in creative affirming and energetic approach for a healthier YOU!
Looking for holistic and a well - rounded metal health ? Search no further , we specialize in creative affirming and energetic approach for a healthier YOU!
(267) 651-8767 View (267) 651-8767
Photo of David T Springer, Psychiatrist, MD
David T Springer
Psychiatrist, MD
Newtown Square, PA 19073
I treat patients with a wide variety of problems. My treatment is tailored to the individual needs of my patients and includes psychotherapy and the prescription of medication. Treatment is in a private and confidential setting. The first appointment is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, lasting about 75 minutes. At the end of the evaluation, recommendations for treatment will be discussed. If there are medical issues, I will collaborate with other physicians as needed, and with your consent. Follow-up appointments will be arranged and scheduled as needed. Office hours are Monday through Friday by appointment, with some evening hours available.
I treat patients with a wide variety of problems. My treatment is tailored to the individual needs of my patients and includes psychotherapy and the prescription of medication. Treatment is in a private and confidential setting. The first appointment is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, lasting about 75 minutes. At the end of the evaluation, recommendations for treatment will be discussed. If there are medical issues, I will collaborate with other physicians as needed, and with your consent. Follow-up appointments will be arranged and scheduled as needed. Office hours are Monday through Friday by appointment, with some evening hours available.
(610) 898-3267 View (610) 898-3267
Photo of Ursula Nonyerem Odimara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Ursula Nonyerem Odimara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are struggling with mental health symptoms, Healthy Mind is a safe place to start your mental health journey. Dr. Ursula Odimara is doctorate prepared ANCC board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and is a graduate of LaSalle University, Philadelphia, Pa. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, this gives her the knowledge and experience to treat each patient with individualized holistic approach. She has a broad experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, mood disorders and much more.
If you are struggling with mental health symptoms, Healthy Mind is a safe place to start your mental health journey. Dr. Ursula Odimara is doctorate prepared ANCC board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and is a graduate of LaSalle University, Philadelphia, Pa. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, this gives her the knowledge and experience to treat each patient with individualized holistic approach. She has a broad experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, mood disorders and much more.
(609) 710-9716 View (609) 710-9716
Photo of Martin Forsberg - PTSD Rx, Psychiatrist, MD
PTSD Rx
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Are nightmares and flashbacks related to trauma disrupting your life? At PTSD Rx, we understand the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on your well-being. Our compassionate team has over 10 years of experience treating nightmares and flashbacks and is here to guide you toward healing and recovery.
Are nightmares and flashbacks related to trauma disrupting your life? At PTSD Rx, we understand the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on your well-being. Our compassionate team has over 10 years of experience treating nightmares and flashbacks and is here to guide you toward healing and recovery.
(609) 745-1284 View (609) 745-1284
Photo of Evelyn Rosa - Beyond Mental Health & Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Beyond Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
At Beyond Mental Health and Wellness, we believe that healing happens through connection, consistency, and compassionate care. Led by Evelyn Rosa, PMHNP, we offer personalized psychiatric services that empower clients to take control of their mental health journey.
At Beyond Mental Health and Wellness, we believe that healing happens through connection, consistency, and compassionate care. Led by Evelyn Rosa, PMHNP, we offer personalized psychiatric services that empower clients to take control of their mental health journey.
(856) 595-4248 View (856) 595-4248
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Radnor, PA 19087
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) 309-9215 View (215) 309-9215
Photo of Momo Cole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CRNP
Momo Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CRNP
Quakertown, PA 18951
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.
(267) 489-1008 View (267) 489-1008
Photo of Amanda Kingston - Brave Counseling & Wellness, Psychiatrist, MD
Brave Counseling & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Wyncote, PA 19095
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
(573) 766-4587 View (573) 766-4587

See more therapy options for Blue Bell

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Blue Bell, PA

10+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in Blue Bell, PA who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
75% Highmark

How Psychiatrists in Blue Bell, PA see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Blue Bell?

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.