Psychiatrists in Lancaster, PA

Photo of Dana Wiley, MD, Psychiatrist
Dana Wiley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
My name is Dana Wiley, MD and I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 25 years. I primarily treat adults using a combination of conventional psychiatry, medication, and a dose of common sense. Although I initially trained heavily in psychodynamic psychotherapy, I also appreciate that some patients will benefit from medication to treat their symptoms.
My name is Dana Wiley, MD and I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 25 years. I primarily treat adults using a combination of conventional psychiatry, medication, and a dose of common sense. Although I initially trained heavily in psychodynamic psychotherapy, I also appreciate that some patients will benefit from medication to treat their symptoms.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Matthew Booth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Matthew Booth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with my patients to build a treatment plan that matches their individual needs. I am an ADHD specialist in the field - physicians and other nurse practitioners often consult me for care in this regard. I believe that ADHD is underdiagnosed and poorly treated in adults, despite the serious long-term consequences of untreated ADHD. I am comfortable treating people of all ages- I have 3 years of experience treating children and teenagers where I was in charge of an inpatient (hospital) psychiatric unit for this population.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with my patients to build a treatment plan that matches their individual needs. I am an ADHD specialist in the field - physicians and other nurse practitioners often consult me for care in this regard. I believe that ADHD is underdiagnosed and poorly treated in adults, despite the serious long-term consequences of untreated ADHD. I am comfortable treating people of all ages- I have 3 years of experience treating children and teenagers where I was in charge of an inpatient (hospital) psychiatric unit for this population.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Lilian Ogujiofor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilian Ogujiofor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
Dr. Ogujiofor is a certified registered nurse practitioner with dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. She is a highly motivated, team-oriented, and compassionate provider with the goal of providing evidence-based and individualized mental health care for each patient. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from West Chester University in 2016 and obtained her MSN from La Salle University in 2013 as well as Post-Master's in PMHNP in 2021 from Regis College.
Dr. Ogujiofor is a certified registered nurse practitioner with dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. She is a highly motivated, team-oriented, and compassionate provider with the goal of providing evidence-based and individualized mental health care for each patient. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from West Chester University in 2016 and obtained her MSN from La Salle University in 2013 as well as Post-Master's in PMHNP in 2021 from Regis College.
(717) 912-8510 View (717) 912-8510
Photo of Rebecca Headley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Headley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Rebecca Headley I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am also a board-certified Adult Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC). I have been in the medical field for over 20 years. I have a professional goal to improve mental health knowledge in the community to decrease the stigma that is currently placed on mental health. Strong communication skills will be used to build a therapeutic relationship with patients and their families.
Hello! My name is Rebecca Headley I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am also a board-certified Adult Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC). I have been in the medical field for over 20 years. I have a professional goal to improve mental health knowledge in the community to decrease the stigma that is currently placed on mental health. Strong communication skills will be used to build a therapeutic relationship with patients and their families.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Roxanne Jeffries-Baxter, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roxanne Jeffries-Baxter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Roxanne Jeffries-Baxter. Dr. Jeffries is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner in three specialties, Gerontology (GNP-BC), Family Practice (FNP-BC), and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I employ an integrative approach to mental health care, drawing from multiple theoretical frameworks. I provide holistic, individualized care tailored to each client’s unique needs. This approach allows me to address both the immediate symptoms and underlying causes of mental health challenges while promoting long-term wellness and personal growth.
Roxanne Jeffries-Baxter. Dr. Jeffries is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner in three specialties, Gerontology (GNP-BC), Family Practice (FNP-BC), and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I employ an integrative approach to mental health care, drawing from multiple theoretical frameworks. I provide holistic, individualized care tailored to each client’s unique needs. This approach allows me to address both the immediate symptoms and underlying causes of mental health challenges while promoting long-term wellness and personal growth.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Sarah N M Gatumu - Substance Abuse , Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Substance Abuse , Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
Have you been dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder for months or years? Have you been on this medication then that medication and these seem to work for a while only for the symptoms to come back? Are you looking for a comprehensive functional approach that addresses these problems at a functional level? Do you want to live life on your terms? What are the five things you should be doing today to optimize your mental health? Have you heard of the Walsh protocol and you want a provider who can help you with this? The solution is closer than you think.
Have you been dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder for months or years? Have you been on this medication then that medication and these seem to work for a while only for the symptoms to come back? Are you looking for a comprehensive functional approach that addresses these problems at a functional level? Do you want to live life on your terms? What are the five things you should be doing today to optimize your mental health? Have you heard of the Walsh protocol and you want a provider who can help you with this? The solution is closer than you think.
(223) 215-3853 View (223) 215-3853
Photo of Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
(717) 864-8554 View (717) 864-8554
Photo of Samantha O'Donnell, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha O'Donnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
My name is Samantha O'Donnell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 7 years of experience treating teens (12+) and adults. Unlike traditional approaches, I focus on the root cause of your struggles. I find and treat the "why" behind your symptoms to help you achieve lasting mental well-being and lead a happier, healthier life. Mental health is unique to each person, and I believe treatments should be tailored to each person as well! Together, we will work to understand your symptoms by exploring biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.
My name is Samantha O'Donnell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 7 years of experience treating teens (12+) and adults. Unlike traditional approaches, I focus on the root cause of your struggles. I find and treat the "why" behind your symptoms to help you achieve lasting mental well-being and lead a happier, healthier life. Mental health is unique to each person, and I believe treatments should be tailored to each person as well! Together, we will work to understand your symptoms by exploring biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.
(717) 837-9952 View (717) 837-9952
Photo of Roxanne C. Swistock, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roxanne C. Swistock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
(717) 942-9352 View (717) 942-9352
Photo of Evelyn Mensah - EM&E Health, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
EM&E Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
1 in 5 adults suffers from a mental health condition or substance use disorder. 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. Unfortunately, stigma leads to so many individuals not receiving the care they need. Hi, I am Evelyn Mensah and I am here to partner with you to provide you with the needed psychiatric /behavioral health care. Evelyn uses a holistic and person-centered approach to care.
1 in 5 adults suffers from a mental health condition or substance use disorder. 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. Unfortunately, stigma leads to so many individuals not receiving the care they need. Hi, I am Evelyn Mensah and I am here to partner with you to provide you with the needed psychiatric /behavioral health care. Evelyn uses a holistic and person-centered approach to care.
(717) 923-8183 View (717) 923-8183
Photo of Eunice Itabiyi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eunice Itabiyi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Eunice Itabiyi PMHNP-BC. I’ve been a dedicated adult psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 5 years I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders. providing medication management for adolescent and older adult patients. My approach to therapy is very supportive utilizes Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Christian Counseling, Supportive, and Trust-Based Relational Intervention. I create a nonjudgmental environment where the patient can talk about their feelings and concerns that
My name is Dr. Eunice Itabiyi PMHNP-BC. I’ve been a dedicated adult psychiatric nurse practitioner for the past 5 years I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders. providing medication management for adolescent and older adult patients. My approach to therapy is very supportive utilizes Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Christian Counseling, Supportive, and Trust-Based Relational Intervention. I create a nonjudgmental environment where the patient can talk about their feelings and concerns that
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602  (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
(833) 775-0571 View (833) 775-0571
Photo of Sheila Jourdain, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602  (Online Only)
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I develop comprehensive and thorough treatment plans. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I develop comprehensive and thorough treatment plans. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
(610) 215-2536 View (610) 215-2536
Photo of Katelin Crane, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katelin Crane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
(484) 263-5287 View (484) 263-5287
Photo of Joseph Andrews, MD, Psychiatrist
Joseph Andrews
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
I am a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and the director of Via Clinic, a group private practice. We have expertise in diagnosis, medical management and psychotherapy. We treat a variety of conditions, such as depression, anxiety and ADHD. All patients receive a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. Our approach starts with knowing the whole person and understanding their affliction within the context of their life story, dispositions and behaviors.
I am a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and the director of Via Clinic, a group private practice. We have expertise in diagnosis, medical management and psychotherapy. We treat a variety of conditions, such as depression, anxiety and ADHD. All patients receive a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. Our approach starts with knowing the whole person and understanding their affliction within the context of their life story, dispositions and behaviors.
(717) 912-6887 View (717) 912-6887
Photo of Bracie Haworth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bracie Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
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.
(717) 401-4356 View (717) 401-4356
Photo of Jaleesa Jules, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaleesa Jules
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
Patients with anxiety, depression, or trauma, often face overwhelming feelings of distress, hopelessness, & fear, that significantly impacts their daily functioning. They may have difficulty managing stress, maintaining relationships, or achieving a sense of stability. The primary needs of these patients include a safe & supportive environment, & the ability to regain control over their emotions and thoughts. Goals involve reducing the intensity and frequency of symptoms, improving emotional regulation, enhancing self-esteem, and fostering resilience. Together, we can develop practical skills to manage triggers and regain purpose.
Patients with anxiety, depression, or trauma, often face overwhelming feelings of distress, hopelessness, & fear, that significantly impacts their daily functioning. They may have difficulty managing stress, maintaining relationships, or achieving a sense of stability. The primary needs of these patients include a safe & supportive environment, & the ability to regain control over their emotions and thoughts. Goals involve reducing the intensity and frequency of symptoms, improving emotional regulation, enhancing self-esteem, and fostering resilience. Together, we can develop practical skills to manage triggers and regain purpose.
(717) 819-1923 View (717) 819-1923
Photo of Christine Carpenter, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christine Carpenter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with managing your mental health while balancing the demands of daily life? Are you finding it difficult to cope with anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress? As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand how these challenges can affect your well-being and your ability to pursue your goals.
Do you struggle with managing your mental health while balancing the demands of daily life? Are you finding it difficult to cope with anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress? As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I understand how these challenges can affect your well-being and your ability to pursue your goals.
(484) 240-7396 View (484) 240-7396
Photo of Dr. Axeline Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Axeline Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognizant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognizant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
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Photo of Jamie M Stiffler, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie M Stiffler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Welcome to Bright Star Integrative Psychiatry, LLC! I am excited to meet and partner with you to create a collaborative and individualized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals and improve the quality of your life!
Welcome to Bright Star Integrative Psychiatry, LLC! I am excited to meet and partner with you to create a collaborative and individualized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals and improve the quality of your life!
(717) 297-0187 View (717) 297-0187
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lancaster, PA

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Lancaster, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% ADHD
81% Bipolar Disorder
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Lancaster, PA see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lancaster?

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.