Psychiatrists in Wyncote, PA

Photo of Amanda Kingston - Brave Counseling & Wellness, Psychiatrist, MD
Brave Counseling & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Wyncote, PA 19095
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
You’ve been searching for help for a long time. You’ve tried every approach to find a psychiatrist, counselor, or coach you connect with. You’ve browsed countless websites and spoken in confidence to those you trust. You crave a real connection with a mental health professional—a person who understands you and has the expertise to help you achieve lasting change. You're looking for feedback and concrete tools. A clinician who affirms your values and who you are. We've got you if you're ready to dive in and do the real work! Our Brave mental health experts love working with teens, college students, young adults, and adults.
(573) 766-4587 View (573) 766-4587
Photo of Samuel P Wyche, Psychiatrist, DO
Samuel P Wyche
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Bracie Haworth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bracie Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
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
Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Royersford, PA 19468
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.
(484) 878-4551 View (484) 878-4551
Photo of Chen Zhou, Psychiatrist, MD
Chen Zhou
Psychiatrist, MD
5 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
Seeking support for your mental health can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I provide a warm, judgment-free space where we work together to find the right treatment for you. Whether you're exploring medication for the first time or adjusting an existing plan, I take a collaborative approach—listening to your concerns, answering your questions, and tailoring care to fit your unique needs. My holistic approach addresses mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
Seeking support for your mental health can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I provide a warm, judgment-free space where we work together to find the right treatment for you. Whether you're exploring medication for the first time or adjusting an existing plan, I take a collaborative approach—listening to your concerns, answering your questions, and tailoring care to fit your unique needs. My holistic approach addresses mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
(484) 246-8766 View (484) 246-8766
Photo of Catherine Mazzie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C
Catherine Mazzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
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 lead them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to listen openly to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and refrain from 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 lead them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to listen openly to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and refrain from making personal judgments.
(484) 282-1750 View (484) 282-1750
Photo of Anna Esser, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Anna Esser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
Anna Esser is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania. Anna received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing, in 2017 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Temple University, School of Nursing, in 2011. She is board-certified as a Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and engages in continuing education through organizations such as APNA, ANA, and NEI. Anna has been a nurse since 2011 and has been practicing as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner since 2018.
Anna Esser is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania. Anna received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing, in 2017 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Temple University, School of Nursing, in 2011. She is board-certified as a Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and engages in continuing education through organizations such as APNA, ANA, and NEI. Anna has been a nurse since 2011 and has been practicing as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner since 2018.
(484) 930-1592 View (484) 930-1592
Photo of Agata Kaminska, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Agata Kaminska
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Agata Kaminska, PMHNP is a compassionate and experienced mental health provider serving patients across Pennsylvania. Specializing in medication management, she works closely with individuals to address mental health challenges, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and PTSD. With a focus on personalized care, Agata provides evidencebased treatment that promotes wellbeing, while fostering a supportive, understanding environment for her patients. She is committed to supporting people of all ages, from young adults to seniors, in their journey toward mental wellness.
Agata Kaminska, PMHNP is a compassionate and experienced mental health provider serving patients across Pennsylvania. Specializing in medication management, she works closely with individuals to address mental health challenges, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and PTSD. With a focus on personalized care, Agata provides evidencebased treatment that promotes wellbeing, while fostering a supportive, understanding environment for her patients. She is committed to supporting people of all ages, from young adults to seniors, in their journey toward mental wellness.
(267) 943-3054 View (267) 943-3054
Photo of Evan J Thomas, Psychiatrist, MD
Evan J Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Barbara Anne Paolini, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Barbara Anne Paolini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Doylestown, PA 18901
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate, personalized care for ages 8 to 70, recognizing that mental health is vital to overall well-being. With experience across all age groups, I tailor my approach to each individual's needs, providing evidence-based treatment in a supportive, empathetic environment. I stay current with the latest research to ensure effective, high-quality care. Let’s work together to achieve your mental health goals and enhance your quality of life.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate, personalized care for ages 8 to 70, recognizing that mental health is vital to overall well-being. With experience across all age groups, I tailor my approach to each individual's needs, providing evidence-based treatment in a supportive, empathetic environment. I stay current with the latest research to ensure effective, high-quality care. Let’s work together to achieve your mental health goals and enhance your quality of life.
(267) 459-9152 View (267) 459-9152
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
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.
(267) 703-5470 View (267) 703-5470
Photo of Momo Cole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CRNP
Momo Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CRNP
Royersford, PA 19468
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is grappling with various challenges that affect their overall functioning and well-being. They may be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, leading to difficulties in maintaining focus and organization in their daily lives. Anxiety often clouds their thoughts, manifesting in overwhelming worries and a sense of restlessness, while depression may have seeped into their outlook on life, sapping their motivation and joy. This client likely struggles with self-esteem issues, feeling inadequate or unworthy, which can be compounded by stress from various sources.
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is grappling with various challenges that affect their overall functioning and well-being. They may be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, leading to difficulties in maintaining focus and organization in their daily lives. Anxiety often clouds their thoughts, manifesting in overwhelming worries and a sense of restlessness, while depression may have seeped into their outlook on life, sapping their motivation and joy. This client likely struggles with self-esteem issues, feeling inadequate or unworthy, which can be compounded by stress from various sources.
(484) 573-3367 View (484) 573-3367
Photo of Priya Amari, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNPBC
Priya Amari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNPBC
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
Priya Amari, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who brings both clinical expertise and a personal touch to mental health care. Priya believes that healing starts with feeling seen and understood, and she makes it a priority to create a space where patients feel safe, respected, and genuinely cared for. Her approach blends traditional and innovative methods—incorporating medication management alongside therapeutic techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and EMDR. She collaborates closely with patients and care teams
Priya Amari, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, is a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who brings both clinical expertise and a personal touch to mental health care. Priya believes that healing starts with feeling seen and understood, and she makes it a priority to create a space where patients feel safe, respected, and genuinely cared for. Her approach blends traditional and innovative methods—incorporating medication management alongside therapeutic techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and EMDR. She collaborates closely with patients and care teams
(484) 759-7908 View (484) 759-7908
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 Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Limerick, PA 19468
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) 673-6072 View (484) 673-6072
Photo of Momo Cole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CRNP
Momo Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CRNP
Chesterbrook, PA 19087
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is grappling with various challenges that affect their overall functioning and well-being. They may be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, leading to difficulties in maintaining focus and organization in their daily lives. Anxiety often clouds their thoughts, manifesting in overwhelming worries and a sense of restlessness, while depression may have seeped into their outlook on life, sapping their motivation and joy. This client likely struggles with self-esteem issues, feeling inadequate or unworthy, which can be compounded by stress from various sources.
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is grappling with various challenges that affect their overall functioning and well-being. They may be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, leading to difficulties in maintaining focus and organization in their daily lives. Anxiety often clouds their thoughts, manifesting in overwhelming worries and a sense of restlessness, while depression may have seeped into their outlook on life, sapping their motivation and joy. This client likely struggles with self-esteem issues, feeling inadequate or unworthy, which can be compounded by stress from various sources.
(484) 923-6721 View (484) 923-6721
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Fort Washington, PA 19034
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) 978-9503 View (484) 978-9503
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Royersford, PA 19468
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know 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 wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know 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 wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(484) 240-7224 View (484) 240-7224
Photo of Nichelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Philadelphia, PA 19111
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress, and they are seeking relief from it. 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, and they are seeking relief from it. 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) 692-5113 View (267) 692-5113
Katherine K Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Jenkintown, PA 19046
I work with children, adolescents and adults who are looking for help to feel better about themselves and their lives. As a psychoanalyst with many years of experience working with all ages, I work with people to discover the causes of their distress. We can then work together to find new ways that they can understand the underlying problems and new ways to deal with them. I am also a psychiatrist with child, adolescent and adult training. While my primary focus is psychotherapy, I am also able to discuss possible needs for medication.
I work with children, adolescents and adults who are looking for help to feel better about themselves and their lives. As a psychoanalyst with many years of experience working with all ages, I work with people to discover the causes of their distress. We can then work together to find new ways that they can understand the underlying problems and new ways to deal with them. I am also a psychiatrist with child, adolescent and adult training. While my primary focus is psychotherapy, I am also able to discuss possible needs for medication.
(215) 598-6452 View (215) 598-6452

See more therapy options for Wyncote

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wyncote, PA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Wyncote, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Emotional Disturbance
100% Suicidal Ideation

Average years in practice

33 Years

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male

How Psychiatrists in Wyncote, PA see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wyncote?

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.