Psychiatrists in Bryn Mawr, PA

Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
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, depend 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, depend on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
(484) 279-5137 View (484) 279-5137
Photo of Amy MacIntyre, Psychiatrist, MD
Amy MacIntyre
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Dr Amy MacIntyre is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist. She is a graduate of Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency at Brown University's Butler Hospital and went on to a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. Her training focused on medication treatment of psychiatric disorders across all ages, and therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. The services Dr MacIntyre provides include evaluations, second opinions, med management and therapy.
Dr Amy MacIntyre is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist. She is a graduate of Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency at Brown University's Butler Hospital and went on to a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. Her training focused on medication treatment of psychiatric disorders across all ages, and therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. The services Dr MacIntyre provides include evaluations, second opinions, med management and therapy.
(484) 573-6844 x2 View (484) 573-6844 x2
Photo of Paul Joseph Resignato, Psychiatrist, MD
Paul Joseph Resignato
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I view individuals as a “whole” with the understanding that our biology, social context, spirituality and community make us who we are. I frequently integrate these issues along with nutrition, exercise and lifestyle to support mental health. Underlying all my work with individuals and families is a foundation of open communication and a therapeutic relationship.
I view individuals as a “whole” with the understanding that our biology, social context, spirituality and community make us who we are. I frequently integrate these issues along with nutrition, exercise and lifestyle to support mental health. Underlying all my work with individuals and families is a foundation of open communication and a therapeutic relationship.
(609) 697-2068 View (609) 697-2068
Photo of Taylor Bell, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Taylor Bell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Taylor Bell is a board certified physician assistant who completed her medical training at Duke University Physician Assistant Program. She received her undergrad degree from Penn State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biobehavioral Health and a minor in Human Development Family Studies. Prior to arriving to Dr. MacIntyre’s practice, Taylor worked in a psychiatry practice in North Carolina, treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, psychosis, personality disorders, and more. She is excited to continue treating patients in the Philadelphia area.
Taylor Bell is a board certified physician assistant who completed her medical training at Duke University Physician Assistant Program. She received her undergrad degree from Penn State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biobehavioral Health and a minor in Human Development Family Studies. Prior to arriving to Dr. MacIntyre’s practice, Taylor worked in a psychiatry practice in North Carolina, treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, psychosis, personality disorders, and more. She is excited to continue treating patients in the Philadelphia area.
(484) 372-4640 View (484) 372-4640
Photo of Raena Khorram, Psychiatrist, MD
Raena Khorram
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist with extensive experience and expertise in psychopharmacology and therapy. My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and substance use disorders. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment, and I will work with you to develop a medication regimen that is tailored to your individual needs. My goal is to ensure that you are on medication only when absolutely necessary, at the lowest effective dose, and for the shortest duration appropriate.
I am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist with extensive experience and expertise in psychopharmacology and therapy. My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and substance use disorders. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment, and I will work with you to develop a medication regimen that is tailored to your individual needs. My goal is to ensure that you are on medication only when absolutely necessary, at the lowest effective dose, and for the shortest duration appropriate.
(484) 813-4864 View (484) 813-4864
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency at Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts, and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency at Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts, and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(484) 592-2544 View (484) 592-2544
Photo of Catherine Mazzie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C
Catherine Mazzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
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 lead them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to listen openly to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and refrain from 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 lead them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to listen openly to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and refrain from making personal judgments.
(484) 282-1750 View (484) 282-1750
Photo of Carrie Malanga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MEd, PMHNP
Carrie Malanga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MEd, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, working with individuals ranging from young adults through the lifespan. My clinical approach to Psychopharmacology is solution focused and evidence based. I allow for 30-minute follow up sessions, in order to best meet the needs of my clients and offer a personalized and integrated approach to Psychiatry. I incorporate the strengths of western medicine as well as eastern philosophies, including contemplative psychology. In order to provide the highest level of patient care, our work together will extend beyond medication, allowing for holistic and co-created treatment planning.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, working with individuals ranging from young adults through the lifespan. My clinical approach to Psychopharmacology is solution focused and evidence based. I allow for 30-minute follow up sessions, in order to best meet the needs of my clients and offer a personalized and integrated approach to Psychiatry. I incorporate the strengths of western medicine as well as eastern philosophies, including contemplative psychology. In order to provide the highest level of patient care, our work together will extend beyond medication, allowing for holistic and co-created treatment planning.
(484) 222-4135 View (484) 222-4135
Photo of Roger Louis Cambor - Bryn Mawr Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Bryn Mawr Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I am a highly experienced board-certified psychiatrist with added qualifications in addiction psychiatry. I spend a good deal of time and energy to establish an accurate diagnosis, then create a treatment plan tailored to the individual. I am interested in learning about a person’s strengths and resources as well as his or her challenges and conflicts. Because of my training and experience I am able to be helpful to adults of different ages who come to me with a wide range of mental health concerns.
I am a highly experienced board-certified psychiatrist with added qualifications in addiction psychiatry. I spend a good deal of time and energy to establish an accurate diagnosis, then create a treatment plan tailored to the individual. I am interested in learning about a person’s strengths and resources as well as his or her challenges and conflicts. Because of my training and experience I am able to be helpful to adults of different ages who come to me with a wide range of mental health concerns.
(484) 380-9225 View (484) 380-9225
Photo of Dr. Mo Dattu - High Yield Short Term Focused Therapy, Psychiatrist, MD
High Yield Short Term Focused Therapy
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern.
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern.
(717) 775-6189 View (717) 775-6189
Photo of Kathryn Zagrabbe, Psychiatrist, MD
Kathryn Zagrabbe
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Accepting New Patients in July 2025! Juno Mental Health PLLC is the private practice of Dr. Kathryn Zagrabbe, a Harvard-trained board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in women's mental health. Dr. Zagrabbe offers personalized psychiatric care for each of her patients. She cares for women ages 18 and above who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, panic disorder, as well as ADHD. She has particular expertise in caring for women in the perinatal period (before, during, and after pregnancy) as well as in perimenopause.
Accepting New Patients in July 2025! Juno Mental Health PLLC is the private practice of Dr. Kathryn Zagrabbe, a Harvard-trained board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in women's mental health. Dr. Zagrabbe offers personalized psychiatric care for each of her patients. She cares for women ages 18 and above who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD, panic disorder, as well as ADHD. She has particular expertise in caring for women in the perinatal period (before, during, and after pregnancy) as well as in perimenopause.
(610) 879-4743 View (610) 879-4743
Photo of Steven S Rolfe, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven S Rolfe
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am trained as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience treating adolescents,young adults, and adults. My practice is divided between intensive psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, and leadership consulting for executives and family enterprises. Approximately half of my professional time is spent in my consulting practice, advising CEOs, boards, and executive teams on psychological aspects of managing and leading their organizations. I work with companies and family businesses to address a leader's personal crises that is affecting their company.
I am trained as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience treating adolescents,young adults, and adults. My practice is divided between intensive psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, and leadership consulting for executives and family enterprises. Approximately half of my professional time is spent in my consulting practice, advising CEOs, boards, and executive teams on psychological aspects of managing and leading their organizations. I work with companies and family businesses to address a leader's personal crises that is affecting their company.
(610) 628-2177 View (610) 628-2177
Photo of Claudia Baldassano - Main Line Institute, Psychiatrist, MD
Main Line Institute
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Our team of Harvard-trained psychiatrists bring over 25 years of experience specializing in evidence-based psychiatry. We provide personalized and compassionate care through innovative treatments, including medication management and meticulously selected psychotherapy. Academically affiliated,  we stay current with up to date and innovative treatments and continue to present at academic meetings. We believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our approach is that it is important to spend time making a diagnosis before recommending treatment.
Our team of Harvard-trained psychiatrists bring over 25 years of experience specializing in evidence-based psychiatry. We provide personalized and compassionate care through innovative treatments, including medication management and meticulously selected psychotherapy. Academically affiliated,  we stay current with up to date and innovative treatments and continue to present at academic meetings. We believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our approach is that it is important to spend time making a diagnosis before recommending treatment.
(484) 917-5791 View (484) 917-5791
Photo of Nichelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress, and they are seeking relief from it. They are seeking someone who will listen to their concerns and collaborate with them to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe and nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver high-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, and they are seeking relief from it. They are seeking someone who will listen to their concerns and collaborate with them to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe and nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver high-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.
(484) 759-1638 View (484) 759-1638
Photo of William (Bill) Sonis, Psychiatrist, MD
William (Bill) Sonis
Psychiatrist, MD
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD and several different learning disabilities made me a sensitive, empathic, and understanding child and adolescent psychiatrist. In grade school, I couldn’t sit still or be quiet; in college and medical school, I needed extra time to complete my assignments. I needed more time in residency than my colleagues to write my notes. Treating ADHD involves more than just medication; it’s a lifetime process about what you need to do differently than others to achieve your goals. I’ve lived that life. My “insider” knowledge facilitates rapport, a core indicator of successful treatment.
Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD and several different learning disabilities made me a sensitive, empathic, and understanding child and adolescent psychiatrist. In grade school, I couldn’t sit still or be quiet; in college and medical school, I needed extra time to complete my assignments. I needed more time in residency than my colleagues to write my notes. Treating ADHD involves more than just medication; it’s a lifetime process about what you need to do differently than others to achieve your goals. I’ve lived that life. My “insider” knowledge facilitates rapport, a core indicator of successful treatment.
(484) 246-7674 View (484) 246-7674
Photo of Christine Mulligan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Christine Mulligan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Suffering with mental health issues or conditions is a challenge that no one should face alone, nor without support and treatment. There are many pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options available to provide relief. I am a Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience helping individuals recover to remission. I assisted in developing the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at UPenn and received awards for faculty of the year (2016) and preceptor of the year (2018). Let's work together to determine the best course of treatment for you.
Suffering with mental health issues or conditions is a challenge that no one should face alone, nor without support and treatment. There are many pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options available to provide relief. I am a Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience helping individuals recover to remission. I assisted in developing the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at UPenn and received awards for faculty of the year (2016) and preceptor of the year (2018). Let's work together to determine the best course of treatment for you.
(484) 989-9348 x3 View (484) 989-9348 x3
Photo of Rachel Weil, Psychiatrist, DO
Rachel Weil
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that meaningful healing begins with a strong, supportive relationship between patient and psychiatrist. My approach is compassionate and collaborative—grounded in active listening, deep respect for each person’s unique experiences, and personalized care that aligns with your goals and overall well-being.
I believe that meaningful healing begins with a strong, supportive relationship between patient and psychiatrist. My approach is compassionate and collaborative—grounded in active listening, deep respect for each person’s unique experiences, and personalized care that aligns with your goals and overall well-being.
(215) 770-9542 View (215) 770-9542
Photo of Dr. Chris Burritt, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Chris Burritt
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Burritt is Board Certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has experience working with all ages from young children to older adults from various backgrounds. His training enabled him to see a wide range of patient situations at hospitals including Einstein, Jefferson, and Nemours DuPont. He enjoys working with individuals as well as couples and families. In addition to treating specific symptoms such as depression or anxiety, patients and he have worked together to address other challenges such as improving relationships or identifying what is blocking them from getting more out of life.
Dr. Burritt is Board Certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has experience working with all ages from young children to older adults from various backgrounds. His training enabled him to see a wide range of patient situations at hospitals including Einstein, Jefferson, and Nemours DuPont. He enjoys working with individuals as well as couples and families. In addition to treating specific symptoms such as depression or anxiety, patients and he have worked together to address other challenges such as improving relationships or identifying what is blocking them from getting more out of life.
(267) 438-9302 View (267) 438-9302
Photo of Jingduan Yang, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Jingduan Yang
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Serves Area
Mental health issues are complex problems with the body, mind, and spirit. They demand a comprehensive evaluation to detect abnormal brain chemistry and physiology to employ an individualized and integrative approach to treat the root causes and relieve the symptoms. I have helped numerous people who are tired of the side effects and lack of efficacy of psychotropic medications and desire to achieve a healthier and happier life.
Mental health issues are complex problems with the body, mind, and spirit. They demand a comprehensive evaluation to detect abnormal brain chemistry and physiology to employ an individualized and integrative approach to treat the root causes and relieve the symptoms. I have helped numerous people who are tired of the side effects and lack of efficacy of psychotropic medications and desire to achieve a healthier and happier life.
(484) 870-3177 View (484) 870-3177
Photo of Aviva Zohar, Psychiatrist, MD
Aviva Zohar
Psychiatrist, MD
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you ready for change? If you are struggling with mood, anxiety or substance use, we can help. At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. Let us be part of change. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
Are you ready for change? If you are struggling with mood, anxiety or substance use, we can help. At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. Let us be part of change. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
(610) 365-1743 View (610) 365-1743

See more therapy options for Bryn Mawr

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bryn Mawr, PA

40+

Average cost per session

$277

Psychiatrists in Bryn Mawr, PA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
84% ADHD
81% Medication Management
79% Bipolar Disorder
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Bryn Mawr, PA see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bryn Mawr?

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.