Psychiatrists in Scranton, PA

Photo of Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18504  (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.
(570) 682-5433 View (570) 682-5433
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18504  (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 Marjorie Maine, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marjorie Maine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, PNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18504
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, extreme mood changes, or issues with focus? Are you plagued by addictions? Is this all affecting your work, physical health, and relationships? Hi, my name is Marjorie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. If you're ready to begin your journey to mental wellness, I can help you navigate the path to living your best life. I believe in the mind-body connection and use a holistic approach to care. This can mean taking psychiatric medication, having psychotherapy sessions, making changes in your diet, or a combination.
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, extreme mood changes, or issues with focus? Are you plagued by addictions? Is this all affecting your work, physical health, and relationships? Hi, my name is Marjorie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. If you're ready to begin your journey to mental wellness, I can help you navigate the path to living your best life. I believe in the mind-body connection and use a holistic approach to care. This can mean taking psychiatric medication, having psychotherapy sessions, making changes in your diet, or a combination.
(272) 204-3140 View (272) 204-3140
Photo of Joseph Ungvarsky, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Ungvarsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18505
We are accepting new clients for medication management as soon as next week! - We accept Highmark BCBS,BS,BC, Geisinger commercial,Geisinger Gold Cigna,Anthem,UHC/Optum(not medicare or medicaid), Aetna and Private pay. NO medicaid/medicare. Geisinger Family,Amerihealth or Capital Blue. Text or Call to schedule. Offering an individualized, person-centered approach to treatment. Have worked in all modalities and treatment settings within the mental health system. Experience is across the lifespan and with all different mental health concerns.
We are accepting new clients for medication management as soon as next week! - We accept Highmark BCBS,BS,BC, Geisinger commercial,Geisinger Gold Cigna,Anthem,UHC/Optum(not medicare or medicaid), Aetna and Private pay. NO medicaid/medicare. Geisinger Family,Amerihealth or Capital Blue. Text or Call to schedule. Offering an individualized, person-centered approach to treatment. Have worked in all modalities and treatment settings within the mental health system. Experience is across the lifespan and with all different mental health concerns.
(570) 600-6692 View (570) 600-6692
Photo of Muhammad Asif - Millmark Health Inc, MD, Psychiatrist
Millmark Health Inc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18503
Dr. Asif is a licensed physician and board certified psychiatrist by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He provides medication management and psychotherapy via telemedicine for adults across the State of Pennsylvania. He treats patients with a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and others.
Dr. Asif is a licensed physician and board certified psychiatrist by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He provides medication management and psychotherapy via telemedicine for adults across the State of Pennsylvania. He treats patients with a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and others.
(570) 673-0738 View (570) 673-0738
Photo of Legg Counseling And Consulting Services Llc, PhD, PsyD, CRNP, PMHNPBC, CAADC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Legg Counseling And Consulting Services Llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PsyD, CRNP, PMHNPBC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18501
People that I treat are often struggling with issues that prevent them from living the type of life they want to live, and it is from there that our work begins. I am skilled in many different approaches to treatment, so I do not use a "one size fits all" approach. After a comprehensive assessment of your concerns, we will discuss how best to proceed. My approach is comprehensive and focuses on you as an individual. In addition to being a psychologist, I am also a Pennsylvania state-licensed and board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP).
People that I treat are often struggling with issues that prevent them from living the type of life they want to live, and it is from there that our work begins. I am skilled in many different approaches to treatment, so I do not use a "one size fits all" approach. After a comprehensive assessment of your concerns, we will discuss how best to proceed. My approach is comprehensive and focuses on you as an individual. In addition to being a psychologist, I am also a Pennsylvania state-licensed and board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP).
(272) 203-8891 View (272) 203-8891
Photo of Sheila Jourdain, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18501  (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) 490-8436 View (610) 490-8436
Photo of Arianna Beatrice DEMPSEY - Broad Mountain Holistic Mental Health Services, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Broad Mountain Holistic Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18512
Waitlist for new clients
Offering a therapeutic, individualized, person-centered holistic approach to treatment. Combine medication management with individual psychotherapy for the best outcome and evidence for recovery based care. Utilize measurement based assessments to allow visual identification of progress of symptoms management. Have worked in all modalities and treatment settings within the mental health system. Experience is across the lifespan and with all different mental health concerns.
Offering a therapeutic, individualized, person-centered holistic approach to treatment. Combine medication management with individual psychotherapy for the best outcome and evidence for recovery based care. Utilize measurement based assessments to allow visual identification of progress of symptoms management. Have worked in all modalities and treatment settings within the mental health system. Experience is across the lifespan and with all different mental health concerns.
(725) 230-8541 View (725) 230-8541
Photo of Andrew Newton - Newton Psychiatric Clinic, LLC, MD, MSc, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Newton Psychiatric Clinic, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MSc, DABPN
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18501
Working in both administrative and clinically driven roles, he remains highly involved and up-to-date in innovative approaches to mental health treatment. Dr. Newton has provided mental health care in all treatment settings including but not limited to, acute inpatient, outpatient, residential, corrections, long term inpatient settings, partial hospitalization programs, and any other imaginable setting that provides mental health treatment.
Working in both administrative and clinically driven roles, he remains highly involved and up-to-date in innovative approaches to mental health treatment. Dr. Newton has provided mental health care in all treatment settings including but not limited to, acute inpatient, outpatient, residential, corrections, long term inpatient settings, partial hospitalization programs, and any other imaginable setting that provides mental health treatment.
(570) 673-0954 View (570) 673-0954
Photo of Timothy Race, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Timothy Race
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18501
Do you suffer from changes in mood, anxiety, or other psychiatric concerns? Do you find it difficult to meet the demands in your life or feel like you're always letting your loved ones down? Have you failed to meet the expectations of your family or work because of your mental health?
Do you suffer from changes in mood, anxiety, or other psychiatric concerns? Do you find it difficult to meet the demands in your life or feel like you're always letting your loved ones down? Have you failed to meet the expectations of your family or work because of your mental health?
(570) 783-8284 View (570) 783-8284

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Brendan Donahue, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brendan Donahue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olyphant, PA 18447  (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with experience treating a wide range of mental health concerns, using a combination of medication management and holistic, therapeutic approaches. I have worked in different areas, such as in-patient hospital settings, outpatient clinics, and telehealth environments, and I am honored to utilize this experience to help others to achieve their mental health goals.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with experience treating a wide range of mental health concerns, using a combination of medication management and holistic, therapeutic approaches. I have worked in different areas, such as in-patient hospital settings, outpatient clinics, and telehealth environments, and I am honored to utilize this experience to help others to achieve their mental health goals.
(484) 799-7950 View (484) 799-7950
Photo of Sharon R Katz, FPMHNP, CNS, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sharon R Katz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, CNS, CRNP
Verified Verified
Olyphant, PA 18447
Have you been frustrated with not being able to understand your thoughts or being able to talk to your psychiatric provider? Have a complex family, medical or mental health illness that has frustrated other providers? I am very experienced: 25 years of working as a nurse and marriage and family therapist combined with an additional 13 years of prescribing holistic and traditional medications resulting in significant experience seeing patients for significant mental illnesses, I work to keep patients healthy, prescribing holistic as well as traditional methods of psychiatry and focused on improving functioning at home and work.
Have you been frustrated with not being able to understand your thoughts or being able to talk to your psychiatric provider? Have a complex family, medical or mental health illness that has frustrated other providers? I am very experienced: 25 years of working as a nurse and marriage and family therapist combined with an additional 13 years of prescribing holistic and traditional medications resulting in significant experience seeing patients for significant mental illnesses, I work to keep patients healthy, prescribing holistic as well as traditional methods of psychiatry and focused on improving functioning at home and work.
(267) 762-2765 View (267) 762-2765
Photo of Katherine Benson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katherine Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Olyphant, PA 18447  (Online Only)
My passion for collaboration and client advocacy, combined with nearly 15 years' nursing and mental health experience, means that I am uniquely suited to help clients identify challenges, and enabling them to meet their mental health goals. While all visits are provided via telehealth, I reside in the community I serve, and I believe that enabling individuals to grow stronger also enables communities to grow stronger. Through my years spent in training and practicing Psychiatry-Mental Health Nursing, I have learned that the solution is rarely as simple as taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
My passion for collaboration and client advocacy, combined with nearly 15 years' nursing and mental health experience, means that I am uniquely suited to help clients identify challenges, and enabling them to meet their mental health goals. While all visits are provided via telehealth, I reside in the community I serve, and I believe that enabling individuals to grow stronger also enables communities to grow stronger. Through my years spent in training and practicing Psychiatry-Mental Health Nursing, I have learned that the solution is rarely as simple as taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
(570) 514-4263 View (570) 514-4263
Photo of Kimberlie Taylor - Tranquil & Serene Psychiatry           , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tranquil & Serene Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olyphant, PA 18447  (Online Only)
My ideal clients are open to sharing their lives with me. They are open to education and exploring treatment plans that suit their needs. My goal is to provide options for patients to be empowered. We can also use Genesight testing to help determine how your DNA interacts with medications to determine best treatment options. Genesight test results are usually returned within 48 hours, making it a fast efficient tool for selection of medications.
My ideal clients are open to sharing their lives with me. They are open to education and exploring treatment plans that suit their needs. My goal is to provide options for patients to be empowered. We can also use Genesight testing to help determine how your DNA interacts with medications to determine best treatment options. Genesight test results are usually returned within 48 hours, making it a fast efficient tool for selection of medications.
(484) 946-4199 View (484) 946-4199
Photo of Ashok Bharucha, MD, Psychiatrist
Ashok Bharucha
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dunmore, PA 18510
I am a graduate of the internationally renowned McLean Hospital of Harvard Medical School with additional fellowship training in geriatric psychiatry from the University of Washington School of Medicine. I deal with the entire spectrum of mental health conditions for anyone 18+ years. Unlike most practices which operate with brief, purely medication-oriented approaches, I spend time getting to know my clients' personal and family history, and how these may affect their well-being and treatment.
I am a graduate of the internationally renowned McLean Hospital of Harvard Medical School with additional fellowship training in geriatric psychiatry from the University of Washington School of Medicine. I deal with the entire spectrum of mental health conditions for anyone 18+ years. Unlike most practices which operate with brief, purely medication-oriented approaches, I spend time getting to know my clients' personal and family history, and how these may affect their well-being and treatment.
(272) 225-5551 View (272) 225-5551
Photo of Allison Lyavdansky, PMHNP-C, AGNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Lyavdansky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, AGNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarks Summit, PA 18411  (Online Only)
Imagine feeling more calm and balanced, ready to take on the day! Together we will help you to work toward becoming the best version of you! Our practice takes a holistic view at preserving and promoting mental health. With flexible scheduling and remote access, we are available for appointments long after traditional offices have closed for the day and from whatever location is most comfortable for you! Avoid the commute, lets meet online!
Imagine feeling more calm and balanced, ready to take on the day! Together we will help you to work toward becoming the best version of you! Our practice takes a holistic view at preserving and promoting mental health. With flexible scheduling and remote access, we are available for appointments long after traditional offices have closed for the day and from whatever location is most comfortable for you! Avoid the commute, lets meet online!
(272) 213-3319 View (272) 213-3319
Photo of Denise Jocelyn Gemzik Jemiola - Summit Psychiatric Services, LLC, PMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Summit Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Verified Verified
Clarks Summit, PA 18411  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome to Summit Psychiatric Services, LLC, a full-service psychiatric practice. We are glad that you found us. Today’s world is one that we can hardly recognize. Isolation, quarantines, social distancing and separation from our family and friends has left us struggling with our emotions. Incidences of anxiety and depression are on the rise and folks are looking for help. You are not alone; we are all in this together.
Hello, and welcome to Summit Psychiatric Services, LLC, a full-service psychiatric practice. We are glad that you found us. Today’s world is one that we can hardly recognize. Isolation, quarantines, social distancing and separation from our family and friends has left us struggling with our emotions. Incidences of anxiety and depression are on the rise and folks are looking for help. You are not alone; we are all in this together.
(570) 479-2398 View (570) 479-2398
Photo of Kimberlee Renee Adams, PMHNP,  , CRNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberlee Renee Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, , CRNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dickson City, PA 18447
My expertise lies in delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I am dedicated to addressing a range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
My expertise lies in delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I am dedicated to addressing a range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
(267) 209-8196 View (267) 209-8196
Photo of Wanda Rodriguez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wanda Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olyphant, PA 18447
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
Photo of Rhonda Cornitcher, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhonda Cornitcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olyphant, PA 18447  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Rhonda Cornitcher, I am a PMHNP-BC. I have been working in the mental health field for the past 20 years. I obtained my graduate degree from Grand Canyon University in 2016.
Hello, my name is Rhonda Cornitcher, I am a PMHNP-BC. I have been working in the mental health field for the past 20 years. I obtained my graduate degree from Grand Canyon University in 2016.
(484) 562-4228 View (484) 562-4228

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Scranton, PA

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Scranton, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
90% Depression
90% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
90% Medication Management
80% Bipolar Disorder
70% Addiction

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Highmark
89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
89% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Scranton, PA see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Male
38% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Scranton?

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.