Psychiatrists in Havertown, PA

Photo of Lisa Smith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Lisa Smith
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083
Lisa Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Nursing- PMHNP from Desales University. Lisa is passionate about creating a space in which patients feel safe, informed, and comfortable when discussing their care. She uses a holistic treatment approach and values understanding each person's unique experiences, background, and attributes. Lisa believes every client should be an active participant in their care and it is her goal to support each client in reaching their individual treatment goals to achieve optimal functional and wellbeing.
Lisa Smith is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Nursing- PMHNP from Desales University. Lisa is passionate about creating a space in which patients feel safe, informed, and comfortable when discussing their care. She uses a holistic treatment approach and values understanding each person's unique experiences, background, and attributes. Lisa believes every client should be an active participant in their care and it is her goal to support each client in reaching their individual treatment goals to achieve optimal functional and wellbeing.
(484) 739-8155 View (484) 739-8155
Photo of Francine Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francine Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083
Fran Williams is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. She has a BSN from Pennsylvania State University and Master's Degree: PMHNP from Desales University. Fran looks at the whole picture of an individual. She attempts to gain Insight about what in a person's life led to the mental health illness and the effects of outside influences, including life events or family dynamics. She believes people seeking help for mental illness or substance use disorders should feel empowered and supported. Fran treats the individual and not the diagnosis.
Fran Williams is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. She has a BSN from Pennsylvania State University and Master's Degree: PMHNP from Desales University. Fran looks at the whole picture of an individual. She attempts to gain Insight about what in a person's life led to the mental health illness and the effects of outside influences, including life events or family dynamics. She believes people seeking help for mental illness or substance use disorders should feel empowered and supported. Fran treats the individual and not the diagnosis.
(484) 878-5602 View (484) 878-5602
Photo of Sharon Bell-East, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sharon Bell-East
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Havertown, PA 19083
Sharon B. East is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and the founder of Renewing Mindsets. With over 26 years of healthcare experience, 19 of which were spent in the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Sharon is a reliable psychiatric mental health support resource. She specializes in treating adolescents and adults struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADD,Stress mental health challenges. Sharon is a passionate advocate for the importance of mental health, believing that patients can become empowered to make the right decisions for themselves with the right coping skills.
Sharon B. East is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and the founder of Renewing Mindsets. With over 26 years of healthcare experience, 19 of which were spent in the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Sharon is a reliable psychiatric mental health support resource. She specializes in treating adolescents and adults struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADD,Stress mental health challenges. Sharon is a passionate advocate for the importance of mental health, believing that patients can become empowered to make the right decisions for themselves with the right coping skills.
(484) 255-4970 View (484) 255-4970
Photo of Laura Moyer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Moyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from Purdue University Global and I have been practicing for 5 years. My specialties include treatment of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders base upon evidenced-based practice. My mission is to treat individuals with compassion and empathy to assist each individual become the best version of themselves.
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from Purdue University Global and I have been practicing for 5 years. My specialties include treatment of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders base upon evidenced-based practice. My mission is to treat individuals with compassion and empathy to assist each individual become the best version of themselves.
(717) 482-6934 View (717) 482-6934
Photo of Karen Bendak, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Bendak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Karen Bendak and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Diploma in Nursing at Aria Health School of Nursing. This extensive three-year program provided me with comprehensive clinical knowledge. I then received my bachelor’s degree in nursing at Pennsylvania State University. After over a decade serving the mental health population I obtained my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. I provide psychiatric evaluations, supportive therapy and medication management within a safe space to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship.
Hello! My name is Karen Bendak and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Diploma in Nursing at Aria Health School of Nursing. This extensive three-year program provided me with comprehensive clinical knowledge. I then received my bachelor’s degree in nursing at Pennsylvania State University. After over a decade serving the mental health population I obtained my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. I provide psychiatric evaluations, supportive therapy and medication management within a safe space to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship.
(267) 297-3702 View (267) 297-3702
Photo of Donald Cramer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donald Cramer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083
I am a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatry trained across the lifespan. I have experience in outpatient, inpatient, partial hospitalization and Intensive outpatient services. 10+ years as a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatry and 17+ years as a nurse in Critical Care Units, Cardiology, Pediatric Medical Psychiatry, Emergency Departments, Telemetry, and many levels of Behavioral Health care. I very much enjoy working with patients across the lifespan from age 6- 70 years.
I am a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatry trained across the lifespan. I have experience in outpatient, inpatient, partial hospitalization and Intensive outpatient services. 10+ years as a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatry and 17+ years as a nurse in Critical Care Units, Cardiology, Pediatric Medical Psychiatry, Emergency Departments, Telemetry, and many levels of Behavioral Health care. I very much enjoy working with patients across the lifespan from age 6- 70 years.
(484) 759-7485 View (484) 759-7485
Photo of Nneka Ikedinma - Able Integrative Practice , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Able Integrative Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Havertown, PA 19083  (Online Only)
Dr. Nneka Ikedinma is the founder of Able Integrative Practice and she is a dedicated and highly qualified professional with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with an additional board certification as a family nurse practitioner (FNP), she has exceptional knowledge and skills in providing top-notch advanced psychiatric and mental health treatment. She utilizes a patient-centered approach in her practice and tailors her treatment to each individual patient's needs because everyone’s mental health journey varies. She is licensed to practice in Texas and Pennsylvania
Dr. Nneka Ikedinma is the founder of Able Integrative Practice and she is a dedicated and highly qualified professional with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with an additional board certification as a family nurse practitioner (FNP), she has exceptional knowledge and skills in providing top-notch advanced psychiatric and mental health treatment. She utilizes a patient-centered approach in her practice and tailors her treatment to each individual patient's needs because everyone’s mental health journey varies. She is licensed to practice in Texas and Pennsylvania
(215) 267-5849 View (215) 267-5849
Photo of Brendan Donahue, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brendan Donahue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083  (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with experience treating a wide range of mental health concerns, using a combination of medication management and holistic, therapeutic approaches. I have worked in different areas, such as in-patient hospital settings, outpatient clinics, and telehealth environments, and I am honored to utilize this experience to help others to achieve their mental health goals.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with experience treating a wide range of mental health concerns, using a combination of medication management and holistic, therapeutic approaches. I have worked in different areas, such as in-patient hospital settings, outpatient clinics, and telehealth environments, and I am honored to utilize this experience to help others to achieve their mental health goals.
(484) 799-7950 View (484) 799-7950
Photo of Krista Panella - KP Wellness, MSN , CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
KP Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083  (Online Only)
Helping people has always been Krista’s calling. And now, nearly two decades after starting her journey in medicine as a Nursing Assistant, Krista has accomplished her dream of becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. While managing a full-time nursing career where she has worked in dual diagnosis centers, CRCs, emergency rooms, infusion therapy, MAT and young adult units, Krista worked tirelessly in her off hours dutifully earning her degree as a Master of Science PMHNP-BC.
Helping people has always been Krista’s calling. And now, nearly two decades after starting her journey in medicine as a Nursing Assistant, Krista has accomplished her dream of becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. While managing a full-time nursing career where she has worked in dual diagnosis centers, CRCs, emergency rooms, infusion therapy, MAT and young adult units, Krista worked tirelessly in her off hours dutifully earning her degree as a Master of Science PMHNP-BC.
(484) 309-8097 View (484) 309-8097
Photo of Jamie Kakkanattu, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Kakkanattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, CCRN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Havertown, PA 19083  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm a Licensed Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified in Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health. I have the passion for helping adults and adolescents improve their mental health and emotional well-being. I understand that people often seek psychiatric support or therapy when they're experiencing emotional or psychological pain stemming from unrecognized beliefs, conflicts, or patterns. My goal as your mental health provider is to create a safe, private, trustworthy, and nonjudgemental place in which you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings.
Welcome! I'm a Licensed Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified in Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health. I have the passion for helping adults and adolescents improve their mental health and emotional well-being. I understand that people often seek psychiatric support or therapy when they're experiencing emotional or psychological pain stemming from unrecognized beliefs, conflicts, or patterns. My goal as your mental health provider is to create a safe, private, trustworthy, and nonjudgemental place in which you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings.
(267) 490-3974 View (267) 490-3974

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Steven S Rolfe, MD, Psychiatrist
Steven S Rolfe
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010  (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 Pamela Talbot-Atkinson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pamela Talbot-Atkinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lower Merion, PA 19083  (Online Only)
I am Pamela Talbot-Atkinson, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of experience as a registered nurse, including five years dedicated to mental health care for individuals with both physical and mental health conditions. I hold both a bachelor's and master's degrees from Chamberlain University in Illinois.
I am Pamela Talbot-Atkinson, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of experience as a registered nurse, including five years dedicated to mental health care for individuals with both physical and mental health conditions. I hold both a bachelor's and master's degrees from Chamberlain University in Illinois.
(484) 739-0495 View (484) 739-0495
Photo of Mutiat Ajibade, MSN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mutiat Ajibade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Drexel Hill, PA 19026  (Online Only)
At Essential Behavioral Health LLC, your mental health is our top priority. We are committed to exercising the greatest standard of practice to meet the mental health of our clients’ needs. Empathetic psychiatric care in Pennsylvania from a private family owned psychiatric practice. Nurse Practitioner Mutiat Ajibade has over a decade of experience and knowledge in mental health dealing with children, adolescent, adults and geriatric population.
At Essential Behavioral Health LLC, your mental health is our top priority. We are committed to exercising the greatest standard of practice to meet the mental health of our clients’ needs. Empathetic psychiatric care in Pennsylvania from a private family owned psychiatric practice. Nurse Practitioner Mutiat Ajibade has over a decade of experience and knowledge in mental health dealing with children, adolescent, adults and geriatric population.
(610) 646-5620 View (610) 646-5620
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(484) 917-0372 View (484) 917-0372
Photo of Cristina Lanzillotta, MD, Psychiatrist
Cristina Lanzillotta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
(484) 372-4599 View (484) 372-4599
Photo of Mallory Mizvitowicz, MSN-RN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mallory Mizvitowicz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-RN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Broomall, PA 19008
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in Pennsylvania. I'm board certified to work with patients across the lifespan. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner I worked as a psychiatric nurse for 7 years at various facilities in the Philadelphia area. I earned my BSN & MSN from La Salle, and am currently working on my Doctorate there as well. I also work as adjunct faculty at the La Salle University school of nursing. I have worked with patients representing a range of ages and diagnoses in various settings, and look forward to sharing my clinical knowledge and experience with my patients.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in Pennsylvania. I'm board certified to work with patients across the lifespan. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner I worked as a psychiatric nurse for 7 years at various facilities in the Philadelphia area. I earned my BSN & MSN from La Salle, and am currently working on my Doctorate there as well. I also work as adjunct faculty at the La Salle University school of nursing. I have worked with patients representing a range of ages and diagnoses in various settings, and look forward to sharing my clinical knowledge and experience with my patients.
(610) 426-1739 View (610) 426-1739
Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
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 depends 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 depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
(484) 946-3864 View (484) 946-3864
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(484) 989-9583 View (484) 989-9583
Photo of Dr. Michael W. Antzis, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael W. Antzis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to treatment, and take great care to listen carefully to my patients, partnering with them to move treatment forward and help them reach their goals.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to treatment, and take great care to listen carefully to my patients, partnering with them to move treatment forward and help them reach their goals.
(484) 271-0625 View (484) 271-0625
Photo of Rachel Dillinger - Extraordinary Minds Psychiatry, MD, PMH-C, Psychiatrist
Extraordinary Minds Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010  (Online Only)
I understand that your mental health is too important for one-size-fits-all "fixes." That’s why I focus on holistic and integrative psychiatry, offering a personalized approach that goes beyond conventional care.
I understand that your mental health is too important for one-size-fits-all "fixes." That’s why I focus on holistic and integrative psychiatry, offering a personalized approach that goes beyond conventional care.
(484) 715-8914 View (484) 715-8914

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Havertown, PA

10+

Average cost per session

$190

Psychiatrists in Havertown, PA who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
80% Anxiety
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% Bipolar Disorder
60% Trauma and PTSD
50% Other
50% Medication Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Other
80% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Havertown, PA see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Havertown?

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.