Psychiatrists in Devon, PA

I'm Dr David Danish, a double board-certified child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing in and around Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I lead Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, a concierge mental health practice based in Devon, Pennsylvania, where we offer a wide range of services, including medication management, therapy, ketamine for depression, ketamine-assisted therapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), neurofeedback, biofeedback, wrap-around services, executive function services, and autism testing. My team and I provide care both in-person and virtually, and I hold licenses in PA, NJ, NY, DE, FL, WY, UT, and CO.
I'm Dr David Danish, a double board-certified child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing in and around Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I lead Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, a concierge mental health practice based in Devon, Pennsylvania, where we offer a wide range of services, including medication management, therapy, ketamine for depression, ketamine-assisted therapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), neurofeedback, biofeedback, wrap-around services, executive function services, and autism testing. My team and I provide care both in-person and virtually, and I hold licenses in PA, NJ, NY, DE, FL, WY, UT, and CO.

I work with children, adolescents, and adults who face challenges such as treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other complex mental health concerns. As a double board-certified psychiatrist in adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, I understand the unique needs of my clients and their families. My clients often seek compassionate, tailored care to improve their emotional well-being, develop healthier coping skills, and regain a sense of hope and stability in their lives.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who face challenges such as treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other complex mental health concerns. As a double board-certified psychiatrist in adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, I understand the unique needs of my clients and their families. My clients often seek compassionate, tailored care to improve their emotional well-being, develop healthier coping skills, and regain a sense of hope and stability in their lives.

Laura Orsatti Weissflog
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you looking for a new psychiatric medication prescriber? I am accepting new clients at Inspire Behavioral Health, a group practice in Phoenixville, PA. If you are looking for a compassionate clinician to assist you in deciding whether you may benefit from adding medication to your current therapy to improve how you are feeling, I can help. If you are already taking medication and are looking for someone who really listens, I will partner with you to make informed decisions about what changes may be helpful. If you have met with various other providers, and not felt heard, I may be the right person for you.
Are you looking for a new psychiatric medication prescriber? I am accepting new clients at Inspire Behavioral Health, a group practice in Phoenixville, PA. If you are looking for a compassionate clinician to assist you in deciding whether you may benefit from adding medication to your current therapy to improve how you are feeling, I can help. If you are already taking medication and are looking for someone who really listens, I will partner with you to make informed decisions about what changes may be helpful. If you have met with various other providers, and not felt heard, I may be the right person 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.
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.

Corina is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. With over 20 years of extensive and varied experience in the nursing field, she has developed a deep understanding of patient care across several settings. Her professional background includes work in outpatient clinics, inpatient facilities, and correctional institutions, giving her a comprehensive perspective on the different needs of patients in diverse environments
Corina is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. With over 20 years of extensive and varied experience in the nursing field, she has developed a deep understanding of patient care across several settings. Her professional background includes work in outpatient clinics, inpatient facilities, and correctional institutions, giving her a comprehensive perspective on the different needs of patients in diverse environments

Joseph Gagnon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN, BS, RN-BC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Joe Gagnon, owner of Psychiatric Edge, brings nearly 15 years of psychiatric experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, with expertise in ADHD, ASD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, and PANS/PANDAS. He integrates plant-based medicine, supplements, and genetic testing into his approach, offering clients alternative options. Joe presents nationally on complex psychiatric topics and holds certifications in addiction treatment (MAT) and clozapine prescribing. He also has extensive experience using LDN. Additionally, he has served as a clinical faculty instructor for 25 different universities.
Joe Gagnon, owner of Psychiatric Edge, brings nearly 15 years of psychiatric experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, with expertise in ADHD, ASD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, and PANS/PANDAS. He integrates plant-based medicine, supplements, and genetic testing into his approach, offering clients alternative options. Joe presents nationally on complex psychiatric topics and holds certifications in addiction treatment (MAT) and clozapine prescribing. He also has extensive experience using LDN. Additionally, he has served as a clinical faculty instructor for 25 different universities.

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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique and goals. They are looking for a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique and goals. They are looking for a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.

Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.

Our offices provide a full range of services to treat your mental, emotional and psychological health. We conduct on-site assessments and testing for various conditions, and then put together an appropriate treatment plan, including medication management and/or psychotherapy services as needed. Our offices are also available for individual and family counseling. Our certified therapists will work with you to help manage issues with anger, anxiety, depression, guilt, abuse, grief, including certain traumas.
Our offices provide a full range of services to treat your mental, emotional and psychological health. We conduct on-site assessments and testing for various conditions, and then put together an appropriate treatment plan, including medication management and/or psychotherapy services as needed. Our offices are also available for individual and family counseling. Our certified therapists will work with you to help manage issues with anger, anxiety, depression, guilt, abuse, grief, including certain traumas.

I am a psychiatric -mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a family medicine nurse practitioner. I have been in nursing for over 25 years, and practicing as a NP for 13 years. I graduated from Wilkes University and Widener University with my masters degree in advanced practice nursing. I am here to serve my clients by listening to their needs and individualizing a treatment plan tailored for them.
I am a psychiatric -mental health nurse practitioner. I am also a family medicine nurse practitioner. I have been in nursing for over 25 years, and practicing as a NP for 13 years. I graduated from Wilkes University and Widener University with my masters degree in advanced practice nursing. I am here to serve my clients by listening to their needs and individualizing a treatment plan tailored for them.

Dr. Alexandra (“Sasha”) Blaes is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Blaes completed medical school at The University of Maryland, followed by a psychiatry residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. While at Johns Hopkins, she mastered clinical assessment and treatment of general psychiatric problems. She also received specialized training in eating disorders, addiction, reproductive psychiatry, chronic pain, and geriatric psychiatry, an interest she pursued further with a fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Dr. Alexandra (“Sasha”) Blaes is a board-certified psychiatrist. Dr. Blaes completed medical school at The University of Maryland, followed by a psychiatry residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. While at Johns Hopkins, she mastered clinical assessment and treatment of general psychiatric problems. She also received specialized training in eating disorders, addiction, reproductive psychiatry, chronic pain, and geriatric psychiatry, an interest she pursued further with a fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Maksam Health & Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CRNP, PMH-BC
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19142
Our ideal client at Maksam Health & Wellness Center faces challenges accessing quality mental health care in underserved communities. They manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and may have co-occurring substance abuse or stressors. Frustrated with impersonal care, they seek holistic support for social, emotional, and medical needs. Motivated for improvement, they desire compassionate, judgment-free care for stability and symptom management, aiming to enhance their quality of life. They value trust, respect, and collaborative therapeutic relationships, preferring evidence-based treatments to achieve mental health goals
Our ideal client at Maksam Health & Wellness Center faces challenges accessing quality mental health care in underserved communities. They manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and may have co-occurring substance abuse or stressors. Frustrated with impersonal care, they seek holistic support for social, emotional, and medical needs. Motivated for improvement, they desire compassionate, judgment-free care for stability and symptom management, aiming to enhance their quality of life. They value trust, respect, and collaborative therapeutic relationships, preferring evidence-based treatments to achieve mental health goals

Liz Frasch, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced mental health provider at LifeStance Health in Pennsylvania. She specializes in patient-focused, trauma-informed care, working collaboratively with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans. Liz offers medication management to adults and teens, creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment for patients to address their mental health concerns. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders, Liz is dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges and achieve a better quality of life.
Liz Frasch, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced mental health provider at LifeStance Health in Pennsylvania. She specializes in patient-focused, trauma-informed care, working collaboratively with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans. Liz offers medication management to adults and teens, creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment for patients to address their mental health concerns. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders, Liz is dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges and achieve a better quality of life.

The focus of my work is healing, not only mental, but also spiritual and emotional, so that one can reach their full potential. I work with clients of all ages. Having trained at CHOP and Tufts University, I incorporate evidence-based medicine and the latest research in the fields of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when I practice. I work with almost all psychiatric disorders, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I am taking new patients at this time and either myself or someone in my practice is usually available to see a new client within four weeks.
The focus of my work is healing, not only mental, but also spiritual and emotional, so that one can reach their full potential. I work with clients of all ages. Having trained at CHOP and Tufts University, I incorporate evidence-based medicine and the latest research in the fields of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when I practice. I work with almost all psychiatric disorders, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I am taking new patients at this time and either myself or someone in my practice is usually available to see a new client within four weeks.

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.

Available within the NEXT 48 HOURS! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website for patient testimonials.
Available within the NEXT 48 HOURS! My goal as your psychiatrist is not to simply put a "bandaid" on by medicating you. In fact, my goal is to get you so much better so that you never have to be on medications again. You will be able to reclaim your natural self without relying on anything else but you. Please see my website for patient testimonials.

Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.
Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.

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.

Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.
Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.
See more therapy options for Devon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Devon, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Devon, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | ADHD |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Medication Management |
57% | Child |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Highmark |
How Psychiatrists in Devon, PA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Devon?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.