Psychiatrists in Chester Springs, PA

Photo of Naga Prasuna Vanipenta, Psychiatrist, MD
Naga Prasuna Vanipenta
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Are you having trouble living your fullest life due to anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar/psychotic disorders, substance use disorders or other behavioral health issues? Either you are seeking the diagnosis/treatment for the first time or looking for a better/alternate care, I would like to partner with you and be the driving force to improve your health and achieve your goals while considering your unique needs. My core philosophy for patient care is partnering and empowering you with the options and the knowledge necessary to get best results from the treatment provided.
Are you having trouble living your fullest life due to anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar/psychotic disorders, substance use disorders or other behavioral health issues? Either you are seeking the diagnosis/treatment for the first time or looking for a better/alternate care, I would like to partner with you and be the driving force to improve your health and achieve your goals while considering your unique needs. My core philosophy for patient care is partnering and empowering you with the options and the knowledge necessary to get best results from the treatment provided.
(484) 969-8880 View (484) 969-8880
Photo of Leonidah Kenyansa Okemwa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , MBA
Leonidah Kenyansa Okemwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , MBA
1 Endorsed
Chester Springs, PA 19425
I enjoy forming partnerships with patients to help them achieve their highest possible level of functioning. My goal is to not only treat mental health conditions, but to emphasize wellness and self-care by giving people the information and tools they need to make healthy lifestyle choices and healthcare decisions.
I enjoy forming partnerships with patients to help them achieve their highest possible level of functioning. My goal is to not only treat mental health conditions, but to emphasize wellness and self-care by giving people the information and tools they need to make healthy lifestyle choices and healthcare decisions.
(484) 309-1778 View (484) 309-1778
Photo of Teresa Ann Blatt - Pottsville Peace of Mind, LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MBA, PMHNPBC
Pottsville Peace of Mind, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MBA, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Teresa Blatt is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to the management of psychiatric patient care addressing the needs of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. We take a holistic approach and consider the needs of each individual patient. Email the office at pottsvillepeaceofmind.com to make an appointment today.
Teresa Blatt is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to the management of psychiatric patient care addressing the needs of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. We take a holistic approach and consider the needs of each individual patient. Email the office at pottsvillepeaceofmind.com to make an appointment today.
(717) 276-1563 View (717) 276-1563
Photo of Cynthia Maritato, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Cynthia Maritato
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Have you experienced little to no benefit from medications and feel there is little hope of feeling better? Have you tried therapy but seen little improvement or felt you were not making progress? Do you often feel unheard by your provider? I believe that the client has a say in their treatment and should be an active participant in their mental wellness journey.
Have you experienced little to no benefit from medications and feel there is little hope of feeling better? Have you tried therapy but seen little improvement or felt you were not making progress? Do you often feel unheard by your provider? I believe that the client has a say in their treatment and should be an active participant in their mental wellness journey.
(412) 501-9891 View (412) 501-9891
Photo of Mark Novitsky - Novitsky MD - boutique mind doctors, Psychiatrist, MD
Novitsky MD - boutique mind doctors
Psychiatrist, MD
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Rethink traditional psychiatry! Offering Virtual Personalized medication treatment guided by your unique DNA profile. Dr. Mark is a dual-board certified Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Dr. Ali is a Certified Life and Weight Loss Coach, Board Certified Pediatrician, Board Certified Neonatologist, Blogger, International Speaker, and Podcast. Dr. Mark believes that effective work with children involves working closely with parents, schools, and other providers - to achieve a joint goal of optimizing a child’s well-being. ***At this time, due to COVID-19, we will are only doing virtual sessions ***
Rethink traditional psychiatry! Offering Virtual Personalized medication treatment guided by your unique DNA profile. Dr. Mark is a dual-board certified Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Dr. Ali is a Certified Life and Weight Loss Coach, Board Certified Pediatrician, Board Certified Neonatologist, Blogger, International Speaker, and Podcast. Dr. Mark believes that effective work with children involves working closely with parents, schools, and other providers - to achieve a joint goal of optimizing a child’s well-being. ***At this time, due to COVID-19, we will are only doing virtual sessions ***
(610) 708-1521 View (610) 708-1521
Photo of David H Clements - Southeastern Executive Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Southeastern Executive Health
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
A psychiatry and psychotherapy practice that’s grounded in its commitment to elevating lives, our bespoke care enables patients to break patterns that no longer serve them. By providing effective, individualized and collaborative evidence-based treatment, we collaborate with our patients to rediscover what was lost or what they’re now seeking.
A psychiatry and psychotherapy practice that’s grounded in its commitment to elevating lives, our bespoke care enables patients to break patterns that no longer serve them. By providing effective, individualized and collaborative evidence-based treatment, we collaborate with our patients to rediscover what was lost or what they’re now seeking.
(484) 435-8987 View (484) 435-8987
Photo of Dr. Suparna Basu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Suparna Basu
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems and emotional issues . Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems and emotional issues . Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com
(215) 337-2831 View (215) 337-2831
Photo of Alexis Sierra Foster, Physician Assistant
Alexis Sierra Foster
Physician Assistant
Online Only
I work under the supervision of Dr. Shoyinka, a triple-board certified psychiatrist. At Centia Health, our primary objective is to provide outstanding clinical care with a priority on making sure our clients feel heard, understood and seen. I combine medication and therapy to provide individuals and families with top quality, person-centered care. With permission, our team will speak with other clinicians involved in your care to ensure a holistic understanding of your needs. In collaboration with you, we will design a treatment plan that meets your needs.
I work under the supervision of Dr. Shoyinka, a triple-board certified psychiatrist. At Centia Health, our primary objective is to provide outstanding clinical care with a priority on making sure our clients feel heard, understood and seen. I combine medication and therapy to provide individuals and families with top quality, person-centered care. With permission, our team will speak with other clinicians involved in your care to ensure a holistic understanding of your needs. In collaboration with you, we will design a treatment plan that meets your needs.
(484) 279-5131 View (484) 279-5131

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Brent Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Brent Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 5 years experience in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry covering both acute and primary care. I have extensive training in treatment of substance/alcohol use disorders, bipolar, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorders, various dementias, and autism. Additional expertise includes weight loss/obesity, smoking cessation, tinnitus, fluoroquinolone associated disability (FQAD), and visual snow syndrome (VSS) treatment.
I am a Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 5 years experience in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry covering both acute and primary care. I have extensive training in treatment of substance/alcohol use disorders, bipolar, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorders, various dementias, and autism. Additional expertise includes weight loss/obesity, smoking cessation, tinnitus, fluoroquinolone associated disability (FQAD), and visual snow syndrome (VSS) treatment.
(570) 865-7765 View (570) 865-7765
Photo of Dr. Abby Reineck, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Abby Reineck
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Abby Reineck currently serves as an outpatient child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has been practicing for eleven years. Dr. Reineck's practice is primarily medication-management services, offered in conjunction with either supportive or eclectic therapy. Follow-up appointments average 30 minutes, but may be more or less. Occasionally, Dr. Reineck believes the addition of a therapist is needed and will request you bring a therapist into your care team. This will be asked of individuals if she believes it will lead to an improved clinical outcome.
Dr. Abby Reineck currently serves as an outpatient child and adolescent psychiatrist. She has been practicing for eleven years. Dr. Reineck's practice is primarily medication-management services, offered in conjunction with either supportive or eclectic therapy. Follow-up appointments average 30 minutes, but may be more or less. Occasionally, Dr. Reineck believes the addition of a therapist is needed and will request you bring a therapist into your care team. This will be asked of individuals if she believes it will lead to an improved clinical outcome.
(267) 377-4268 View (267) 377-4268
Photo of Alexis Sierra Foster, Physician Assistant
Alexis Sierra Foster
Physician Assistant
Online Only
I work under the supervision of Dr. Shoyinka, a triple-board certified psychiatrist. At Centia Health, our primary objective is to provide outstanding clinical care with a priority on making sure our clients feel heard, understood and seen. I combine medication and therapy to provide individuals and families with top quality, person-centered care. With permission, our team will speak with other clinicians involved in your care to ensure a holistic understanding of your needs. In collaboration with you, we will design a treatment plan that meets your needs.
I work under the supervision of Dr. Shoyinka, a triple-board certified psychiatrist. At Centia Health, our primary objective is to provide outstanding clinical care with a priority on making sure our clients feel heard, understood and seen. I combine medication and therapy to provide individuals and families with top quality, person-centered care. With permission, our team will speak with other clinicians involved in your care to ensure a holistic understanding of your needs. In collaboration with you, we will design a treatment plan that meets your needs.
(484) 749-8173 x19063 View (484) 749-8173 x19063
Photo of William J Lorman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, NP
William J Lorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, NP
2 Endorsed
Willow Grove, PA 19090
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a psychoanalyst, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a psychoanalyst, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
(267) 367-4904 View (267) 367-4904
Photo of Maria Capriotti, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP , AGACNP
Maria Capriotti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP , AGACNP
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, PA 19312
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 x102 View (484) 291-7298 x102
Photo of Fatima Sattar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Fatima Sattar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
4 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
My philosophy is that YOU must be at the center of care. While I may guide you in identifying your strengths it is my hope that your goals be created by you rather than assigned. Whether you have endured trauma, struggle with depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, gender identity, ADHD, or another issue my goal is to help you be the best version of you so you may live your best life. Sometimes that means medication, sometimes therapy, sometimes both. We will work together to develop an evidence-based and comprehensive treatment plan. It is my honor to walk beside you in the next phase of your mental health wellness journey!
My philosophy is that YOU must be at the center of care. While I may guide you in identifying your strengths it is my hope that your goals be created by you rather than assigned. Whether you have endured trauma, struggle with depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, gender identity, ADHD, or another issue my goal is to help you be the best version of you so you may live your best life. Sometimes that means medication, sometimes therapy, sometimes both. We will work together to develop an evidence-based and comprehensive treatment plan. It is my honor to walk beside you in the next phase of your mental health wellness journey!
(610) 686-8707 View (610) 686-8707
Photo of Michael Su - michaelsumdpc, Psychiatrist, MD, MA
michaelsumdpc
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Malvern, PA 19355
My practice focuses on Integrative Medicine, the concept of Mind, Body and Spirit. Mental illness involved the whole body not just the brain. Brian health, thinking habits, diet, exercise, stress response techniques and religious believe all affecting our mood and behavior. If people knows the factors influencing their anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and behaviors, they will be in control of their life. Our clinic had a TMS machine, which is FDA approved for depression treatment. TMS also had off labled indications for anxiety, PTSD, addiction, ear ringing, muscle pain, headache ect.
My practice focuses on Integrative Medicine, the concept of Mind, Body and Spirit. Mental illness involved the whole body not just the brain. Brian health, thinking habits, diet, exercise, stress response techniques and religious believe all affecting our mood and behavior. If people knows the factors influencing their anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and behaviors, they will be in control of their life. Our clinic had a TMS machine, which is FDA approved for depression treatment. TMS also had off labled indications for anxiety, PTSD, addiction, ear ringing, muscle pain, headache ect.
(267) 361-0250 View (267) 361-0250
Photo of Meredith McPherson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Meredith McPherson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Paoli, PA 19301
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for guiding individuals toward mental wellness. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from La Salle University, where I specialized in psychiatric and mental health care. My professional journey includes experience working in diverse settings, from hospitals to dual-diagnosis residential treatment centers.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for guiding individuals toward mental wellness. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from La Salle University, where I specialized in psychiatric and mental health care. My professional journey includes experience working in diverse settings, from hospitals to dual-diagnosis residential treatment centers.
(484) 779-1801 View (484) 779-1801
Photo of Chris Pagnani - Chris Pagnani MD PC, Psychiatrist, MD
Chris Pagnani MD PC
Psychiatrist, MD
8 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
(267) 415-8618 View (267) 415-8618
Photo of Sosunmolu O Shoyinka, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFAPA
Sosunmolu O Shoyinka
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFAPA
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
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) 591-2355 x19063 View (484) 591-2355 x19063
Photo of Amanda Hershey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Amanda Hershey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Amanda Hershey, a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 18 years of experience in the nursing field. My passion lies in psychiatry and endocrinology, particularly in helping individuals manage diabetes. Over the years, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the connection between chronic illnesses like diabetes and mental health, which inspired me to pursue additional education and training.
Hi, I’m Amanda Hershey, a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 18 years of experience in the nursing field. My passion lies in psychiatry and endocrinology, particularly in helping individuals manage diabetes. Over the years, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the connection between chronic illnesses like diabetes and mental health, which inspired me to pursue additional education and training.
(717) 759-7735 View (717) 759-7735
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Narberth, PA 19072
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.
(484) 563-4436 View (484) 563-4436

See more therapy options for Chester Springs

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Chester Springs, PA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Chester Springs, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Trauma and PTSD
88% Depression
88% Anxiety
88% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
88% Bipolar Disorder
63% Medication Management
50% ADHD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Aetna
67% Highmark

How Psychiatrists in Chester Springs, PA see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Chester Springs?

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.