Psychiatrists in West Conshohocken, PA

Photo of Ilyssa Krane, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ilyssa Krane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may have adult ADHD if you often struggle to pay attention, get distracted or overlook details, struggle to follow directions or complete tasks. Maybe you tend to act impulsively, have a short temper, or frequently interrupt others during a conversation. Or, maybe you often feel fidgety or restless and have trouble sitting still. Undiagnosed adult ADHD can wreak havoc on both your personal and professional life. Getting a diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your functioning and confidence at work, at home, and in your relationships.
You may have adult ADHD if you often struggle to pay attention, get distracted or overlook details, struggle to follow directions or complete tasks. Maybe you tend to act impulsively, have a short temper, or frequently interrupt others during a conversation. Or, maybe you often feel fidgety or restless and have trouble sitting still. Undiagnosed adult ADHD can wreak havoc on both your personal and professional life. Getting a diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your functioning and confidence at work, at home, and in your relationships.
(484) 601-3736 View (484) 601-3736
Photo of Dara Abraham, DO, Psychiatrist
Dara Abraham
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Imran Posner, MD, Psychiatrist
Imran Posner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
The focus of my work is healing, not only mental, but also spiritual and emotional, so that one can reach their full potential. I work with clients of all ages. Having trained at CHOP and Tufts University, I incorporate evidence-based medicine and the latest research in the fields of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when I practice. I work with almost all psychiatric disorders, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I am taking new patients at this time and either myself or someone in my practice is usually available to see a new client within four weeks.
The focus of my work is healing, not only mental, but also spiritual and emotional, so that one can reach their full potential. I work with clients of all ages. Having trained at CHOP and Tufts University, I incorporate evidence-based medicine and the latest research in the fields of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when I practice. I work with almost all psychiatric disorders, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I am taking new patients at this time and either myself or someone in my practice is usually available to see a new client within four weeks.
(484) 494-2905 View (484) 494-2905
Photo of Huma Mahmood, Psychiatrist
Huma Mahmood
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Narberth, PA 19072
Double Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist & Addictions Specialist providing psychotherapy, Medication Management and compassionate care to patients in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Our practice is located in Narberth, PA but conveniently provides telehealth services to our clients. Our staff includes highly skilled licensed therapists who specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma-focused treatment as well as dual diagnosis care.
Double Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist & Addictions Specialist providing psychotherapy, Medication Management and compassionate care to patients in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Our practice is located in Narberth, PA but conveniently provides telehealth services to our clients. Our staff includes highly skilled licensed therapists who specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma-focused treatment as well as dual diagnosis care.
(724) 374-8626 View (724) 374-8626
Photo of Wanda Hedian, FNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wanda Hedian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
(484) 559-6809 View (484) 559-6809
Photo of Chikodili Obi, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chikodili Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Great to meet you! Chikodili Obi is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated from Wilkes University. She is enthusiastic about providing quality, evidence based psychiatric care across the life span. Chikodili possesses strong clinical skills necessary to establish and build relationships with patients She specializes in treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, psychosis and mood disorders.
Great to meet you! Chikodili Obi is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated from Wilkes University. She is enthusiastic about providing quality, evidence based psychiatric care across the life span. Chikodili possesses strong clinical skills necessary to establish and build relationships with patients She specializes in treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, psychosis and mood disorders.
(610) 510-6813 View (610) 510-6813
Photo of Ayanna Logan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ayanna Logan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel like your life is not where you want it to be? Are you experiencing mental difficulties and believe that this is preventing you from moving forward in your life? Well I'm here to lend you some assistance. Whatever you're going through, I want to help you work through it so you can be the best you possible.
Do you feel like your life is not where you want it to be? Are you experiencing mental difficulties and believe that this is preventing you from moving forward in your life? Well I'm here to lend you some assistance. Whatever you're going through, I want to help you work through it so you can be the best you possible.
(267) 704-8657 View (267) 704-8657
Photo of Sudha Jairaj, MD, Psychiatrist
Sudha Jairaj
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Jairaj is an established and highly skilled psychiatrist with over 44 years of practice experience, having worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. While she has extensive experience in understanding medication dosing and drug interactions, she provides holistic treatments, to ensure optimal patient care. Dr. Jairaj's passion is driven by the bonds she builds with her patients and the enjoyment she holds in keeping them healthy and well.
Dr. Jairaj is an established and highly skilled psychiatrist with over 44 years of practice experience, having worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. While she has extensive experience in understanding medication dosing and drug interactions, she provides holistic treatments, to ensure optimal patient care. Dr. Jairaj's passion is driven by the bonds she builds with her patients and the enjoyment she holds in keeping them healthy and well.
(215) 888-8791 View (215) 888-8791
Photo of Evan J Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Evan J Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
Life is often difficult. Sometimes these difficulties can be seen, understood and worked on towards a constructive and rewarding conclusion. Sometimes they are obscure, complicated, and entangled leaving a person to feel lost, abandoned, overwhelmed, helpless and powerless. Relationships, work challenges, personal self understanding, inner thoughts, feelings, goals, dreams and fears are all situations where these difficulties can play out. Talk therapy works as the therapist and the patient engage in active listening which is often difficult to do in non-professional social situations.
Life is often difficult. Sometimes these difficulties can be seen, understood and worked on towards a constructive and rewarding conclusion. Sometimes they are obscure, complicated, and entangled leaving a person to feel lost, abandoned, overwhelmed, helpless and powerless. Relationships, work challenges, personal self understanding, inner thoughts, feelings, goals, dreams and fears are all situations where these difficulties can play out. Talk therapy works as the therapist and the patient engage in active listening which is often difficult to do in non-professional social situations.
(484) 992-9947 View (484) 992-9947
Photo of Susan Gilman, MD, Psychiatrist
Susan Gilman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Dr. Gilman is a board certified psychiatrist and lifetime Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. She has over 38 years of experience in adult, geriatric and consultation-liaison psychiatry. She graduated from Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed her psychiatry training at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (TJUH); and she has also postgraduate training at the Philadelphia Association of Psychoanalysis. She has been a medical director of several institutions including Fairmont Institute, Kirkbride Institute and Roxborough Memorial Hospital.
Dr. Gilman is a board certified psychiatrist and lifetime Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. She has over 38 years of experience in adult, geriatric and consultation-liaison psychiatry. She graduated from Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed her psychiatry training at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (TJUH); and she has also postgraduate training at the Philadelphia Association of Psychoanalysis. She has been a medical director of several institutions including Fairmont Institute, Kirkbride Institute and Roxborough Memorial Hospital.
(267) 323-4940 View (267) 323-4940
Photo of Melissa Brubaker, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Brubaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I’m Melissa. I provide medication management for adults, specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health conditions. No matter where you are right now, we’ll work together to find the best strategies to support your emotional well-being and create a more balanced future. I take a holistic, person-centered approach, integrating medication, supplements, nutrition, self-care, and coping strategies to empower you to take charge of your mental health. Schedule directly using “My website” link.
Hi! I’m Melissa. I provide medication management for adults, specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health conditions. No matter where you are right now, we’ll work together to find the best strategies to support your emotional well-being and create a more balanced future. I take a holistic, person-centered approach, integrating medication, supplements, nutrition, self-care, and coping strategies to empower you to take charge of your mental health. Schedule directly using “My website” link.
(484) 759-8611 View (484) 759-8611
Photo of Sosunmolu O Shoyinka, MD, MBA, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Sosunmolu O Shoyinka
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFAPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Media, PA 19063
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and mental health issues related to medical conditions. My top priority is to ensure patients feel heard, understood, and supported. In each session, we will collaborate to develop a plan for ongoing care. I believe in the importance of teamwork and, with your consent, I’m happy to coordinate with other clinicians involved in your care to provide comprehensive support. We combine treatment modality such as medication management and therapy to help you obtain relief.
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and mental health issues related to medical conditions. My top priority is to ensure patients feel heard, understood, and supported. In each session, we will collaborate to develop a plan for ongoing care. I believe in the importance of teamwork and, with your consent, I’m happy to coordinate with other clinicians involved in your care to provide comprehensive support. We combine treatment modality such as medication management and therapy to help you obtain relief.
(267) 762-1692 View (267) 762-1692
Photo of Emily Bernstein, MD, Psychiatrist
Emily Bernstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paoli, PA 19301
Hello! My name is Dr. Emily Bernstein. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use and mental health, ADHD and more. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy out of my office in Paoli, PA. I strive to build a trusting relationship with all of my patients and will work with you to build a treatment plan that you feel comfortable with. I am happy to offer both in person and virtual appointments to suit your needs.
Hello! My name is Dr. Emily Bernstein. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use and mental health, ADHD and more. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy out of my office in Paoli, PA. I strive to build a trusting relationship with all of my patients and will work with you to build a treatment plan that you feel comfortable with. I am happy to offer both in person and virtual appointments to suit your needs.
(484) 372-3612 View (484) 372-3612
Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Njoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
Limerick, PA 19468
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.
(267) 309-2636 View (267) 309-2636
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Leorah M Walsh, MD, Psychiatrist
Leorah M Walsh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
I am a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism in children and adults. I have additional experience treating individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, medical causes of psychiatric illness, and co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions. I regularly treat student-athletes, and gifted students and have helped many people transition through many stages and positions in life. I also have experience helping people in the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism in children and adults. I have additional experience treating individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, medical causes of psychiatric illness, and co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions. I regularly treat student-athletes, and gifted students and have helped many people transition through many stages and positions in life. I also have experience helping people in the LGBTQ+ community.
(267) 609-8496 View (267) 609-8496
Photo of Nidhi Tewari, MD, Psychiatrist
Nidhi Tewari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
We all strive for success. How well we function is shaped by factors inside & outside of us. Our inherited traits, past experiences, and current circumstances all influence how we navigate life’s challenges. It can be difficult to identify which of these factors are enhancing or hindering our ability to function at our best. The key to greater satisfaction and success lies in being aware of these internal and external factors, understanding how they influence our behavior, and learning how to regulate their impact.
We all strive for success. How well we function is shaped by factors inside & outside of us. Our inherited traits, past experiences, and current circumstances all influence how we navigate life’s challenges. It can be difficult to identify which of these factors are enhancing or hindering our ability to function at our best. The key to greater satisfaction and success lies in being aware of these internal and external factors, understanding how they influence our behavior, and learning how to regulate their impact.
(484) 276-5508 View (484) 276-5508
Photo of Heather Bisca, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Bisca
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Villanova, PA 19085
Heather uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with other healthcare providers. She is known for her compassionate care, always advocating for and listening to her patients with respect and empathy. Her approach integrates her personal values of kindness, acceptance, and understanding.
Heather uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with other healthcare providers. She is known for her compassionate care, always advocating for and listening to her patients with respect and empathy. Her approach integrates her personal values of kindness, acceptance, and understanding.
(484) 383-5007 View (484) 383-5007
Photo of Franklin George Maleson, MD, Psychiatrist
Franklin George Maleson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I regard empathy, responsiveness, and respect for the patient as core therapeutic values. While I tailor treatment to the individual, as a psychoanalyst I place special importance on gaining insight about unconscious contributors to current difficulties. I also appreciate the importance of clarifying and resolving here-and-now problems. When appropriate I prescribe medications or work short-term. My style is collaborative rather than authoritarian. For many years I have taught psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to trainees in these fields. I also teach professional ethics. I have published in the major journals in my field and am a training and supervising psychoanalyst.
I regard empathy, responsiveness, and respect for the patient as core therapeutic values. While I tailor treatment to the individual, as a psychoanalyst I place special importance on gaining insight about unconscious contributors to current difficulties. I also appreciate the importance of clarifying and resolving here-and-now problems. When appropriate I prescribe medications or work short-term. My style is collaborative rather than authoritarian. For many years I have taught psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to trainees in these fields. I also teach professional ethics. I have published in the major journals in my field and am a training and supervising psychoanalyst.
(215) 821-9941 View (215) 821-9941
Photo of Bracie Haworth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bracie Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
(717) 401-4356 View (717) 401-4356

See more therapy options for West Conshohocken

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in West Conshohocken, PA

< 10

Psychiatrists in West Conshohocken, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Women's Issues
50% Depression
50% Life Coaching
50% Other

Average years in practice

13 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in West Conshohocken, PA see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in West Conshohocken?

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.