Psychiatrists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Dr. Axeline Johnson, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Axeline Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
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 Dr. Michael Rosen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
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.
(412) 500-9581 View (412) 500-9581
Photo of Dr. Monica Conn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Dr. Monica Conn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15233
I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult and challenging. I want you to know that you are not alone, and there is hope for your recovery. I know that dealing with mental health conditions can be overwhelming and affect various aspects of your life, including work, relationships, and daily activities. However, I am here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. I want to assure you that seeking mental health care is a brave and proactive step towards healing.
I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult and challenging. I want you to know that you are not alone, and there is hope for your recovery. I know that dealing with mental health conditions can be overwhelming and affect various aspects of your life, including work, relationships, and daily activities. However, I am here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. I want to assure you that seeking mental health care is a brave and proactive step towards healing.
(412) 946-8045 View (412) 946-8045
Photo of Frank A. Fetterolf, Psychiatrist, MD
Frank A. Fetterolf
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My ideal client is a curious individual who desires a solution to their problems by utilizing their existing talents. They need another perspective to restructure their relationship with themselves with the courage to learn something new. They aim to achieve sustainable change through self-affirmation rather than forced surrender. They want to feel empowered and in control, motivated by the desire for long-term health and well-being. They seek to integrate their psychological desires with physical actions, ultimately enhancing their self-esteem and mastery.
My ideal client is a curious individual who desires a solution to their problems by utilizing their existing talents. They need another perspective to restructure their relationship with themselves with the courage to learn something new. They aim to achieve sustainable change through self-affirmation rather than forced surrender. They want to feel empowered and in control, motivated by the desire for long-term health and well-being. They seek to integrate their psychological desires with physical actions, ultimately enhancing their self-esteem and mastery.
(412) 832-9949 View (412) 832-9949
Photo of Kelly Walsh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Kelly Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Kelly Walsh is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Case Western Reserve University and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Ursuline College. Kelly has several years of experience treating multiple different psychiatric disorders in a community-based outpatient setting.
Kelly Walsh is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Case Western Reserve University and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Ursuline College. Kelly has several years of experience treating multiple different psychiatric disorders in a community-based outpatient setting.
(412) 844-5087 View (412) 844-5087
Photo of Sylvia Boules, Psychiatrist, MD
Sylvia Boules
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified general psychiatrist with additional fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I trained in the Bronx where I learned to practice in a diverse, busy hospital setting. I came to Pittsburgh in 2019 and have been working in the outpatient world with children and adolescents ever since. I enjoy a collaborative approach of gathering perspectives from families, patients, and schools to make an accurate, kind, and thoughtful treatment plan.
I am a board certified general psychiatrist with additional fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I trained in the Bronx where I learned to practice in a diverse, busy hospital setting. I came to Pittsburgh in 2019 and have been working in the outpatient world with children and adolescents ever since. I enjoy a collaborative approach of gathering perspectives from families, patients, and schools to make an accurate, kind, and thoughtful treatment plan.
(412) 754-4020 View (412) 754-4020
Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Ijeoma Njoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, or schizophrenia? Finding it challenging to manage your mental health despite your best efforts? As a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I specialize in medication management and psychoeducation. My goal is to help you regain control, alleviate symptoms, and improve your daily functioning so you can lead a fulfilling and healthy life.
Struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, or schizophrenia? Finding it challenging to manage your mental health despite your best efforts? As a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience, I specialize in medication management and psychoeducation. My goal is to help you regain control, alleviate symptoms, and improve your daily functioning so you can lead a fulfilling and healthy life.
(856) 437-5737 View (856) 437-5737
Photo of Rachel Margaret Whelan, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Rachel Margaret Whelan
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Dr. Whelan is a compassionate and experienced psychiatrist who provides outpatient care with a focus on trauma, early childhood mental health, and the unique experiences of immigrants and asylum seekers. She serves as the Faculty Advisor to the Human Rights Clinic at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and supports medical students and physicians conducting asylum evaluations. She also collaborates with the University of Pittsburgh School of Law’s Immigration Law Clinic and occasionally completes evaluations herself.
Dr. Whelan is a compassionate and experienced psychiatrist who provides outpatient care with a focus on trauma, early childhood mental health, and the unique experiences of immigrants and asylum seekers. She serves as the Faculty Advisor to the Human Rights Clinic at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and supports medical students and physicians conducting asylum evaluations. She also collaborates with the University of Pittsburgh School of Law’s Immigration Law Clinic and occasionally completes evaluations herself.
(412) 528-6070 View (412) 528-6070
Photo of Abigail Wang, Psychiatrist, MD
Abigail Wang
Psychiatrist, MD
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Dr. Abigail Wang earned her MD from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Virginia. She specializes in trauma-informed care and integrates psychodynamic principles into medication management. She was UVA Psychiatry’s first physician trained in Prolonged Exposure therapy (PE) for PTSD. Dr. Wang also has experience in DBT, CBASP, group therapy, medication-assisted treatment for substance use, and TMS for treatment-resistant depression.
Dr. Abigail Wang earned her MD from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Virginia. She specializes in trauma-informed care and integrates psychodynamic principles into medication management. She was UVA Psychiatry’s first physician trained in Prolonged Exposure therapy (PE) for PTSD. Dr. Wang also has experience in DBT, CBASP, group therapy, medication-assisted treatment for substance use, and TMS for treatment-resistant depression.
(412) 368-0259 View (412) 368-0259
Photo of Francis Okafor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CRNP, MBA
Francis Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CRNP, MBA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
At St. Francis Xavier Psychiatric Services, LLC, we provide compassionate, personalized mental health care for individuals 18 years and older. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, addiction, ADHD, and more. We take an integrated approach, combining psychopharmacologic treatment with psychotherapy to provide holistic care. Using techniques like motivational interviewing, I work collaboratively with you to understand your unique needs, goals, and preferences.
At St. Francis Xavier Psychiatric Services, LLC, we provide compassionate, personalized mental health care for individuals 18 years and older. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, addiction, ADHD, and more. We take an integrated approach, combining psychopharmacologic treatment with psychotherapy to provide holistic care. Using techniques like motivational interviewing, I work collaboratively with you to understand your unique needs, goals, and preferences.
(484) 969-8686 View (484) 969-8686
Photo of Paul Kim, Psychiatrist, MD
Paul Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I am a psychiatrist who works with adults ages 18 and up from all backgrounds. My approach is guided by curiosity, whether it be about your past experiences, present struggles, or future aspirations. Throughout a person’s treatment, there is rarely one single correct option at any given stage, and I’ll work with you collaboratively to tailor your treatment in a way that aligns with your goals.
I am a psychiatrist who works with adults ages 18 and up from all backgrounds. My approach is guided by curiosity, whether it be about your past experiences, present struggles, or future aspirations. Throughout a person’s treatment, there is rarely one single correct option at any given stage, and I’ll work with you collaboratively to tailor your treatment in a way that aligns with your goals.
(412) 634-8405 View (412) 634-8405
Photo of Danielle Miller, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Danielle Miller
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
(412) 214-0042 View (412) 214-0042
Photo of Loren Sobel - LJS Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
LJS Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
LJS Psychiatry is a unique psychiatry practice that provides truly holistic psychiatric care. LJS Psychiatry providers are psychotherapists who can prescribe medications, when needed, in the context of individual psychotherapy. That means you no longer need to see one person for psychotherapy and another for medication treatment. Instead, we provide genuine whole person care that proves to be highly effective. When you're navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, or identity challenges, you need a space where you are met with genuine empathy, active curiosity, and a willingness to encourage honest self-examination.
LJS Psychiatry is a unique psychiatry practice that provides truly holistic psychiatric care. LJS Psychiatry providers are psychotherapists who can prescribe medications, when needed, in the context of individual psychotherapy. That means you no longer need to see one person for psychotherapy and another for medication treatment. Instead, we provide genuine whole person care that proves to be highly effective. When you're navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, or identity challenges, you need a space where you are met with genuine empathy, active curiosity, and a willingness to encourage honest self-examination.
(412) 991-1144 View (412) 991-1144
Photo of Nichelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
(412) 455-8343 View (412) 455-8343
Photo of Christi DiPippo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN
Christi DiPippo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, MSN
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I am skilled in working with children and adults facing psychosocial stressors and mental health challenges. They may struggle with social interactions and emotional regulation, impacting their self-esteem and academic/job performance. Children have an innate resilience ready to unlock and develop coping skills that will serve them throughout life. I strive to support adult clients by cultivating self-awareness and restoring harmony in their lives. Each patient's journey focuses on understanding their strengths, values, and aspirations, ultimately leading to a fulfilling and purposeful life.
I am skilled in working with children and adults facing psychosocial stressors and mental health challenges. They may struggle with social interactions and emotional regulation, impacting their self-esteem and academic/job performance. Children have an innate resilience ready to unlock and develop coping skills that will serve them throughout life. I strive to support adult clients by cultivating self-awareness and restoring harmony in their lives. Each patient's journey focuses on understanding their strengths, values, and aspirations, ultimately leading to a fulfilling and purposeful life.
(412) 946-0934 View (412) 946-0934
Photo of Jennifer Demko - Nurowav TMS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nurowav TMS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Nurowav TMS is dedicated to improving the lives of those struggling with their mental health. We offer Medication Management services for those looking to start or continue psychiatric medications; as well as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato (nasal esketamine) for those who are seeking alternatives to treating their depression. Our care team are experienced mental health professionals who deliver compassionate, personalized care.
Nurowav TMS is dedicated to improving the lives of those struggling with their mental health. We offer Medication Management services for those looking to start or continue psychiatric medications; as well as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato (nasal esketamine) for those who are seeking alternatives to treating their depression. Our care team are experienced mental health professionals who deliver compassionate, personalized care.
(412) 668-5755 View (412) 668-5755
Photo of Rachel Kosciusko - Mental Health Psychiatry, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rachel Kosciusko - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Rachel studied psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, where she published research with the UPMC Liver Cancer Center Quality of Life Program. She continued her training at Western Psychiatric Hospital & spent three years leading therapy groups at the John Merck Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, where she processed anxiety, mood, and attention challenges. Rachel completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at DeSales University & is a Certified PA specializing in Psychiatry. While at DeSales, she completed additional training in neurology and served as a mental health mentor at the University.
Rachel studied psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, where she published research with the UPMC Liver Cancer Center Quality of Life Program. She continued her training at Western Psychiatric Hospital & spent three years leading therapy groups at the John Merck Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, where she processed anxiety, mood, and attention challenges. Rachel completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at DeSales University & is a Certified PA specializing in Psychiatry. While at DeSales, she completed additional training in neurology and served as a mental health mentor at the University.
(412) 214-0042 View (412) 214-0042
Photo of Jacob McBride, Psychiatrist, DO
Jacob McBride
Psychiatrist, DO
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist, currently seeing patients both in person. I work with clients to build a plan to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions.
I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist, currently seeing patients both in person. I work with clients to build a plan to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions.
(412) 385-0819 View (412) 385-0819
Photo of Dr. Paige Forrest, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Paige Forrest
Psychiatrist, MD
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a general adult practice. If you are interested in learning more about my practice please go to forrestpyschiatry.com. If you decide that you would like to request an appointment you can fill in the new patient screening form on the website.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a general adult practice. If you are interested in learning more about my practice please go to forrestpyschiatry.com. If you decide that you would like to request an appointment you can fill in the new patient screening form on the website.
(412) 214-7511 View (412) 214-7511
Photo of Alexander Welge, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Welge
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I enjoy teaching and helping people understand how their bodies work, and how the medications work to help them feel better, thus empowering clients with the knowledge to make informed decisions. I also have extensive experience in the realm of substance abuse. My experience has helped me learn how to target the receptors that clients were self-medicating, in a non-habit-forming way, thereby helping to balance their chemistry, while helping them come to terms with their narrative, and ultimately learning to live their best life. I do not prescribe controlled substances.
I enjoy teaching and helping people understand how their bodies work, and how the medications work to help them feel better, thus empowering clients with the knowledge to make informed decisions. I also have extensive experience in the realm of substance abuse. My experience has helped me learn how to target the receptors that clients were self-medicating, in a non-habit-forming way, thereby helping to balance their chemistry, while helping them come to terms with their narrative, and ultimately learning to live their best life. I do not prescribe controlled substances.
(412) 743-9420 View (412) 743-9420

See more therapy options for Pittsburgh

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Pittsburgh, PA

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Pittsburgh, PA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
95% Depression
79% Trauma and PTSD
78% Medication Management
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Bipolar Disorder
58% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
79% Highmark
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Pittsburgh, PA see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Pittsburgh?

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.