Psychiatrists in Willow Grove, PA

Photo of Ife Ajuwon - Ife Ajuwon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ife Ajuwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Willow Grove, PA 19090
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about working with clients to improve their quality of life as it relates to their mental health. I believe in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowering my patients, and proactive and timely pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions. My mission at Psychtitude NP is to treat you in a therapeutic, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment while following evidence-based guidelines as well as clinical experience.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about working with clients to improve their quality of life as it relates to their mental health. I believe in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowering my patients, and proactive and timely pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions. My mission at Psychtitude NP is to treat you in a therapeutic, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment while following evidence-based guidelines as well as clinical experience.
(267) 490-4684 View (267) 490-4684
Photo of William J Lorman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, NP
William J Lorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, NP
2 Endorsed
Willow Grove, PA 19090
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a psychoanalyst, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a psychoanalyst, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
(267) 367-4904 View (267) 367-4904
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Serves Area
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include 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 which may include 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.
(223) 336-5122 View (223) 336-5122
Photo of Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new clients with insurances/private pay, virtual and in person! Hi, my name is Elizabeth, and I’m a UPenn trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for ages 18 to 65. I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PMDD, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, among other conditions. The mission at Impak Psychiatry is empowering you to live your best life. Core Philosophy is to minimize medication use, while optimizing your quality of life. I take a collaborative and integrative approach. For more info, please visit my website at impakpsychiatry(dot)com.
Accepting new clients with insurances/private pay, virtual and in person! Hi, my name is Elizabeth, and I’m a UPenn trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for ages 18 to 65. I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PMDD, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, among other conditions. The mission at Impak Psychiatry is empowering you to live your best life. Core Philosophy is to minimize medication use, while optimizing your quality of life. I take a collaborative and integrative approach. For more info, please visit my website at impakpsychiatry(dot)com.
(484) 285-5947 View (484) 285-5947
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(223) 250-4670 View (223) 250-4670
Photo of Catherine Mazzie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Catherine Mazzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.
Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.
(223) 271-8233 View (223) 271-8233
Photo of Mary Kathryn (Kathy) Corcoran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Mary Kathryn (Kathy) Corcoran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
It’s difficult enough to struggle with depression and anxiety; it should be easy to find a competent, caring psychiatric specialist to help. I strive to help you recover from these and other conditions affecting your emotional health, relationships, and functioning. My patients tell me that they appreciate my emphasis on taking the time to listen to their concerns, my interactive and comprehensive approach to assessing and treating their conditions, and the education I provide about their specific diagnosis and medication. ***ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE CURRENTLY VIRTUAL - via Doxy.me***
It’s difficult enough to struggle with depression and anxiety; it should be easy to find a competent, caring psychiatric specialist to help. I strive to help you recover from these and other conditions affecting your emotional health, relationships, and functioning. My patients tell me that they appreciate my emphasis on taking the time to listen to their concerns, my interactive and comprehensive approach to assessing and treating their conditions, and the education I provide about their specific diagnosis and medication. ***ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE CURRENTLY VIRTUAL - via Doxy.me***
(267) 494-0627 View (267) 494-0627
Photo of Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(223) 426-5539 View (223) 426-5539
Photo of Alexandria Dougherty - Complete Mind Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Complete Mind Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with almost 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. I was called to work in psychiatric care from an early age, entering nursing specifically to practice in psychiatry after obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. I aim to understand my patients' symptoms and the root of their aliments, in order to provide the most appropriate care. In addition to medication management, I have been trained in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, as an alternative treatment modality.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with almost 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. I was called to work in psychiatric care from an early age, entering nursing specifically to practice in psychiatry after obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. I aim to understand my patients' symptoms and the root of their aliments, in order to provide the most appropriate care. In addition to medication management, I have been trained in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, as an alternative treatment modality.
(215) 767-7444 View (215) 767-7444
Photo of Nichelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
(223) 323-9765 View (223) 323-9765
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(223) 217-6057 View (223) 217-6057
Photo of Michael Rosen, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
(223) 357-0976 View (223) 357-0976
Photo of Carol Smith, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
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 achieving 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 achieving goals.
(223) 323-9374 View (223) 323-9374

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Taylor Hayes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CRNP
Taylor Hayes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CRNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I bring a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders and a holistic approach to treatment. I am highly skilled in diagnosing, treating, and managing a broad range of psychiatric conditions. These include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and perinatal mental health (supporting individuals who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or currently nursing). I also am passionate about providing affirming care for the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond. I empower individuals to take control of their mental health, while fostering a compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment.
I bring a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders and a holistic approach to treatment. I am highly skilled in diagnosing, treating, and managing a broad range of psychiatric conditions. These include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and perinatal mental health (supporting individuals who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or currently nursing). I also am passionate about providing affirming care for the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond. I empower individuals to take control of their mental health, while fostering a compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment.
(717) 722-5157 View (717) 722-5157
Photo of Nichelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
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) 759-1638 View (484) 759-1638
Photo of Samuel P Wyche, Psychiatrist, DO
Samuel P Wyche
Psychiatrist, DO
Wyndmoor, PA 19038
Life is full of distractions, the expected and unexpected. Activities of daily living keep us from what we treasure most. These distractions cause problems in our relationships, at home, work, school and socially, disrupting the harmony between our inner self and the world around us. Talk therapy alone works in most situations. Talk treatments I use include psychoanalytic psychotherapy, insight oriented psychotherapy, supportive therapy and psychoanalysis. In some circumstances, the addition of medication is recommended and discussed.
Life is full of distractions, the expected and unexpected. Activities of daily living keep us from what we treasure most. These distractions cause problems in our relationships, at home, work, school and socially, disrupting the harmony between our inner self and the world around us. Talk therapy alone works in most situations. Talk treatments I use include psychoanalytic psychotherapy, insight oriented psychotherapy, supportive therapy and psychoanalysis. In some circumstances, the addition of medication is recommended and discussed.
(215) 346-7443 View (215) 346-7443
Photo of Andrea Papa- Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa- Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Philadelphia, PA 19131
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(484) 669-8571 View (484) 669-8571
Photo of Nichelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNPBC
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNPBC
Philadelphia, PA 19143
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
(267) 458-9276 View (267) 458-9276
Photo of Jutta Vogt, Psychiatrist, MD
Jutta Vogt
Psychiatrist, MD
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Dr. Vogt is a board certified child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 20 years. She graduated medical school from Albert Ludwigs University in Freiburg, Germany and completed her adult psychiatry residency training and child psychiatry fellowship at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA in 2001. Dr. Vogt specializes in medication management of many psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder.
Dr. Vogt is a board certified child/adolescent and adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 20 years. She graduated medical school from Albert Ludwigs University in Freiburg, Germany and completed her adult psychiatry residency training and child psychiatry fellowship at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA in 2001. Dr. Vogt specializes in medication management of many psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder.
(267) 848-9166 View (267) 848-9166
Photo of Sudha Jairaj, Psychiatrist, MD
Sudha Jairaj
Psychiatrist, MD
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

See more therapy options for Willow Grove

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Willow Grove, PA

10+

Average cost per session

$160

Psychiatrists in Willow Grove, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
92% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
92% Bipolar Disorder
85% Trauma and PTSD
62% Addiction
62% ADHD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Willow Grove, PA see their clients

93% In Person and Online
7% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Willow Grove?

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.