Psychiatrists in Middletown, PA

Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
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.
(717) 670-8783 View (717) 670-8783
Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
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.
(717) 937-8709 View (717) 937-8709
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(717) 923-5120 View (717) 923-5120
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
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.
(717) 670-8646 View (717) 670-8646
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(717) 971-4564 View (717) 971-4564
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(717) 883-6316 View (717) 883-6316
Photo of Dr. Denise Chase, FNP, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Denise Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
(570) 526-2394 View (570) 526-2394

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Wanda Rodriguez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wanda Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Hello there! I am a nurse practitioner who has worked in mental health for over 15 years and currently practices in Central Pennsylvania. My career began with crisis intervention and managing acute mental health emergencies. Expanding my scope, I later moved into case management, gaining a deep understanding of mental health conditions, the impact of the environment, and the importance of individualized care.
Hello there! I am a nurse practitioner who has worked in mental health for over 15 years and currently practices in Central Pennsylvania. My career began with crisis intervention and managing acute mental health emergencies. Expanding my scope, I later moved into case management, gaining a deep understanding of mental health conditions, the impact of the environment, and the importance of individualized care.
(223) 218-4520 View (223) 218-4520
Vincent R Kennedy, DO, LLC
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
York, PA 17404
My ideal patient is a working adult who wants to take control of their mental health with a combination of medication and lifestyle interventions.
My ideal patient is a working adult who wants to take control of their mental health with a combination of medication and lifestyle interventions.
(717) 444-8218 View (717) 444-8218
Photo of Dr. Axeline Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Axeline Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17401
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.
View
Photo of Bracie Haworth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bracie Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Grace Muthami - Bright Mind Wellness , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bright Mind Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients! In a world where mental health is finally beginning to receive the attention it deserves, it’s crucial for us to understand how we can help those who are struggling. Mental health challenges affect millions of people worldwide, and by fostering a supportive environment, we can play a pivotal role in their journey toward recovery. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, are prevalent, impacting 1 in 5 adults each year. Book with me to start your journey.
Accepting New Patients! In a world where mental health is finally beginning to receive the attention it deserves, it’s crucial for us to understand how we can help those who are struggling. Mental health challenges affect millions of people worldwide, and by fostering a supportive environment, we can play a pivotal role in their journey toward recovery. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, are prevalent, impacting 1 in 5 adults each year. Book with me to start your journey.
(717) 297-6438 View (717) 297-6438
Photo of Chris Bedford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chris Bedford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Chris and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Chris has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations treating a variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and other health conditions. He believes in the importance of a strong client/clinician partnership which allows the client maximum autonomy in decision-making. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Chris and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Chris has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations treating a variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and other health conditions. He believes in the importance of a strong client/clinician partnership which allows the client maximum autonomy in decision-making. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
(223) 215-3997 View (223) 215-3997
Photo of Dr. Rashelle Browne-Tomlinson - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 848-1154 View (844) 848-1154
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Kristen Cheslick - SolCentered Integrative Psychiatric Care, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SolCentered Integrative Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
My name is Dr. Kristen Cheslick and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan (children/adolescents, adults and older adults). My available services include mental health evaluations, medication management, brief solution-based/supportive psychotherapy, and appropriate referrals as necessary. Email my office for an appointment today at contact@solcenteredcare.com. We have appointments available Monday through Friday and some weekends.
My name is Dr. Kristen Cheslick and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan (children/adolescents, adults and older adults). My available services include mental health evaluations, medication management, brief solution-based/supportive psychotherapy, and appropriate referrals as necessary. Email my office for an appointment today at contact@solcenteredcare.com. We have appointments available Monday through Friday and some weekends.
(272) 200-4618 View (272) 200-4618
Photo of Alexandra Sopher - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(609) 604-5160 View (609) 604-5160
Photo of Abigail Frimpong, PMHNP, ASDCS, C-DBT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abigail Frimpong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ASDCS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Abigail Frimpong is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Abigail is the CEO and the Founder of Mental Peace Psychiatry. Abigail has extensive experience working with vulnerable populations suffering from serious physical ailments with comorbid psychiatric, mental, behavioral, and substance use disorders in the emergency, inpatient and outpatient settings.
Abigail Frimpong is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Abigail is the CEO and the Founder of Mental Peace Psychiatry. Abigail has extensive experience working with vulnerable populations suffering from serious physical ailments with comorbid psychiatric, mental, behavioral, and substance use disorders in the emergency, inpatient and outpatient settings.
(223) 218-4368 View (223) 218-4368
Photo of Melissa Brubaker, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Brubaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I’m Melissa, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I offer telehealth medication management for adults with a focus on burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Alongside medications, I emphasize a comprehensive approach to wellness, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, self-care practices and coping strategies. Together, we’ll identify your treatment goals and the best options for achieving them.
Hi, I’m Melissa, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I offer telehealth medication management for adults with a focus on burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Alongside medications, I emphasize a comprehensive approach to wellness, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, self-care practices and coping strategies. Together, we’ll identify your treatment goals and the best options for achieving them.
(484) 759-8611 View (484) 759-8611
Photo of Angela Marie Jacobs, MD , Psychiatrist
Angela Marie Jacobs
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am glad you are here. My name is Dr. Angela Jacobs, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Medical School in 2008 and completed my formal psychiatric training in 2012. I have spent my career caring for patients in the inpatient and outpatient settings. I also have experience in the state hospitals and prison system. Controlled substances are available from my practice on a very limited basis and never on the first session. All paperwork such as FMLA and related will only be considered after several months of treatment.
Hello, I am glad you are here. My name is Dr. Angela Jacobs, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Medical School in 2008 and completed my formal psychiatric training in 2012. I have spent my career caring for patients in the inpatient and outpatient settings. I also have experience in the state hospitals and prison system. Controlled substances are available from my practice on a very limited basis and never on the first session. All paperwork such as FMLA and related will only be considered after several months of treatment.
(717) 923-5149 View (717) 923-5149

See more therapy options for Middletown

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Middletown, PA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Middletown, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Middletown, PA see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Middletown?

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.