Psychiatrists in Villanova, PA

Photo of Tarah Bird, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHNP
Tarah Bird
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHNP
Villanova, PA 19085
I’m a firm believer that laughter (and a dash of wit) is good medicine! As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to create a safe, relaxed environment where clients feel empowered to speak freely about their goals, concerns, and triumphs—big or small. I take a client-centered approach, tailoring both therapy and medication strategies to each person’s unique needs. We’ll work together, combining my expertise with your insights, to chart a treatment course that feels right to you.
I’m a firm believer that laughter (and a dash of wit) is good medicine! As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to create a safe, relaxed environment where clients feel empowered to speak freely about their goals, concerns, and triumphs—big or small. I take a client-centered approach, tailoring both therapy and medication strategies to each person’s unique needs. We’ll work together, combining my expertise with your insights, to chart a treatment course that feels right to you.
(484) 900-8921 View (484) 900-8921
Photo of Guillermo Otero-Perez - Complete Mind Care of Pa , Psychiatrist, MD
Complete Mind Care of Pa
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Otero-Perez has been a practicing psychiatrist since 2002. He has worked in inpatient hospitals, crisis centers, outpatient facilities, as well as consulting work for various facilities. In addition to private practicing, Dr. Otero-Perez also currently acts as an expert witness for civil commitments and long residential settings through Jefferson and Einstein Health Systems.
Dr. Otero-Perez has been a practicing psychiatrist since 2002. He has worked in inpatient hospitals, crisis centers, outpatient facilities, as well as consulting work for various facilities. In addition to private practicing, Dr. Otero-Perez also currently acts as an expert witness for civil commitments and long residential settings through Jefferson and Einstein Health Systems.
(215) 767-7444 View (215) 767-7444
Photo of Danielle Giuliano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Danielle Giuliano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Villanova, PA 19085
Everyone’s journey with mental health is not the same, so it’s important to have a personalized treatment plan, to fit each individual’s need. Often times, patients I work with have only ever been offered medication as the solution to their symptoms. I recognize the value in medication management, while also being an advocate for alternate therapies, such as TMS and esketamine. I believe it is important to establish an honest and trustworthy relationship, to ensure optimal quality care, through effective and safe approaches to care.
Everyone’s journey with mental health is not the same, so it’s important to have a personalized treatment plan, to fit each individual’s need. Often times, patients I work with have only ever been offered medication as the solution to their symptoms. I recognize the value in medication management, while also being an advocate for alternate therapies, such as TMS and esketamine. I believe it is important to establish an honest and trustworthy relationship, to ensure optimal quality care, through effective and safe approaches to care.
(215) 767-2777 View (215) 767-2777
Photo of Hannah Baumstein, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC, CRNP, RN, BSN
Hannah Baumstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC, CRNP, RN, BSN
Villanova, PA 19085
My approach to treating mental health is deeply rooted in a holistic perspective. I believe in the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit, and I emphasize the importance of addressing all these facets for a comprehensive healing process. I encourage my patients to engage in therapy, maintain a regular exercise routine, and adopt a balanced diet to complement their medication regimen.
My approach to treating mental health is deeply rooted in a holistic perspective. I believe in the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit, and I emphasize the importance of addressing all these facets for a comprehensive healing process. I encourage my patients to engage in therapy, maintain a regular exercise routine, and adopt a balanced diet to complement their medication regimen.
(484) 309-3924 View (484) 309-3924
Photo of Eve Bosnick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP, PMPHNP, BC
Eve Bosnick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP, PMPHNP, BC
Villanova, PA 19085
My approach to treatment is to emphasize the importance of medication management of multiple psychiatric disorders, while also focusing on lifestyle regulation, including sleeping, eating, and exercise routines. My upbeat and positive personality, as well as my focus on growth and self- care, tends to be incorporated into my therapeutic approach.
My approach to treatment is to emphasize the importance of medication management of multiple psychiatric disorders, while also focusing on lifestyle regulation, including sleeping, eating, and exercise routines. My upbeat and positive personality, as well as my focus on growth and self- care, tends to be incorporated into my therapeutic approach.
(717) 936-9586 View (717) 936-9586
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Villanova, PA 19085
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency at 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency at 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(484) 255-4839 View (484) 255-4839
Photo of Andrea Papa, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa
Psychiatrist, MD
Villanova, PA 19085
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 received the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy award 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 received the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy award 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.
(484) 537-8612 View (484) 537-8612
Photo of Michael Rosen, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Villanova, PA 19085
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, depend 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, depend on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
(484) 572-3686 View (484) 572-3686
Photo of Linda Kim, Psychiatrist, MD
Linda Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
(267) 699-7758 View (267) 699-7758
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Villanova, PA 19085
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are crucial for effectively utilizing the tools provided during our sessions, including medication management, 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 crucial for effectively utilizing the tools provided during our sessions, including medication management, 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.
(484) 749-0440 View (484) 749-0440
Photo of Nichelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Villanova, PA 19085
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress, and they are seeking relief from it. They are seeking someone who will listen to their concerns and collaborate with them to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe and nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver high-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, and they are seeking relief from it. They are seeking someone who will listen to their concerns and collaborate with them to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe and nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver high-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.
(484) 917-0519 View (484) 917-0519
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Villanova, PA 19085
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
(484) 779-9612 View (484) 779-9612
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Villanova, PA 19085
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They may have a variety of diagnoses, but what they share in common is that they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and recognize that 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 seeks a provider who is empathetic and listens, guiding their care based on evidence while tailoring it to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They may have a variety of diagnoses, but what they share in common is that they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and recognize that 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 seeks a provider who is empathetic and listens, guiding their care based on evidence while tailoring it to their individual needs.
(484) 246-8832 View (484) 246-8832
Photo of Carol Smith, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Villanova, PA 19085
Self-discovery and the implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is ready to be uncomfortable and dedicated to investing in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and the achievement of goals.
Self-discovery and the implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is ready to be uncomfortable and dedicated to investing in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and the achievement of goals.
(484) 739-0590 View (484) 739-0590
Photo of Alexis Sierra Foster, Physician Assistant
Alexis Sierra Foster
Physician Assistant
Online Only
I work under the supervision of Dr. Shoyinka, a triple-board certified psychiatrist. At Centia Health, our primary objective is to provide outstanding clinical care with a priority on making sure our clients feel heard, understood and seen. I combine medication and therapy to provide individuals and families with top quality, person-centered care. With permission, our team will speak with other clinicians involved in your care to ensure a holistic understanding of your needs. In collaboration with you, we will design a treatment plan that meets your needs.
I work under the supervision of Dr. Shoyinka, a triple-board certified psychiatrist. At Centia Health, our primary objective is to provide outstanding clinical care with a priority on making sure our clients feel heard, understood and seen. I combine medication and therapy to provide individuals and families with top quality, person-centered care. With permission, our team will speak with other clinicians involved in your care to ensure a holistic understanding of your needs. In collaboration with you, we will design a treatment plan that meets your needs.
(484) 209-0653 View (484) 209-0653
Photo of Naga Prasuna Vanipenta, Psychiatrist, MD
Naga Prasuna Vanipenta
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Are you having trouble living your fullest life due to anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar/psychotic disorders, substance use disorders or other behavioral health issues? Either you are seeking the diagnosis/treatment for the first time or looking for a better/alternate care, I would like to partner with you and be the driving force to improve your health and achieve your goals while considering your unique needs. My core philosophy for patient care is partnering and empowering you with the options and the knowledge necessary to get best results from the treatment provided.
Are you having trouble living your fullest life due to anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar/psychotic disorders, substance use disorders or other behavioral health issues? Either you are seeking the diagnosis/treatment for the first time or looking for a better/alternate care, I would like to partner with you and be the driving force to improve your health and achieve your goals while considering your unique needs. My core philosophy for patient care is partnering and empowering you with the options and the knowledge necessary to get best results from the treatment provided.
(484) 969-8880 View (484) 969-8880
Photo of Karen (Yang) Chen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
Karen (Yang) Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
(215) 770-3879 View (215) 770-3879
Photo of Steven S Rolfe, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven S Rolfe
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am trained as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience treating adolescents,young adults, and adults. My practice is divided between intensive psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, and leadership consulting for executives and family enterprises. Approximately half of my professional time is spent in my consulting practice, advising CEOs, boards, and executive teams on psychological aspects of managing and leading their organizations. I work with companies and family businesses to address a leader's personal crises that is affecting their company.
I am trained as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience treating adolescents,young adults, and adults. My practice is divided between intensive psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, and leadership consulting for executives and family enterprises. Approximately half of my professional time is spent in my consulting practice, advising CEOs, boards, and executive teams on psychological aspects of managing and leading their organizations. I work with companies and family businesses to address a leader's personal crises that is affecting their company.
(610) 628-2177 View (610) 628-2177
Photo of Dara Abraham, Psychiatrist, DO
Dara Abraham
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Have you ever wondered why it takes you longer to complete tasks than others, why you constantly misplace your phone and keys, or why you cannot wind down and relax when you have free time? These are just a few adult ADHD symptoms that are not always recognized and, unfortunately, mislabeled as carelessness and laziness or misdiagnosed as anxiety. ADHD is a highly hereditary disorder that starts at birth and usually continues into adulthood. It is often co-morbid with many other psychiatric disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, mood disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.
Have you ever wondered why it takes you longer to complete tasks than others, why you constantly misplace your phone and keys, or why you cannot wind down and relax when you have free time? These are just a few adult ADHD symptoms that are not always recognized and, unfortunately, mislabeled as carelessness and laziness or misdiagnosed as anxiety. ADHD is a highly hereditary disorder that starts at birth and usually continues into adulthood. It is often co-morbid with many other psychiatric disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, mood disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.
(215) 607-2947 View (215) 607-2947
Photo of Frank A. Fetterolf, Psychiatrist, MD
Frank A. Fetterolf
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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

See more therapy options for Villanova

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Villanova, PA

30+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Villanova, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
97% Depression
81% ADHD
72% Bipolar Disorder
66% Trauma and PTSD
63% Medication Management
59% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Villanova, PA see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Villanova?

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.