Psychiatrists in Pennsylvania

View cities and counties in Pennsylvania
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
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.
(215) 770-0128 View (215) 770-0128
Photo of Ashley Barczok, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Barczok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bridgeville, PA 15017
Ashley Barczok is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Ashland University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio State University. Ashley likes to take the time to get to know each client as an individual rather than as a diagnosis and works with that individual to find an approach to treatment that works best. She keeps an open door to feedback and concerns at any point. Outside of work, Ashley spends a majority of her home time with her young daughter as she develops and explores her own interests.
Ashley Barczok is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Ashland University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio State University. Ashley likes to take the time to get to know each client as an individual rather than as a diagnosis and works with that individual to find an approach to treatment that works best. She keeps an open door to feedback and concerns at any point. Outside of work, Ashley spends a majority of her home time with her young daughter as she develops and explores her own interests.
(412) 837-0773 View (412) 837-0773
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Bensalem, PA 19020
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 provider.
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 provider.
(267) 513-8846 View (267) 513-8846
Photo of Bethany Porter, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bethany Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ambridge, PA 15003
Bethany Porter is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her BSN from The George Washington University and her DNP from Robert Morris University. Since starting her nursing career in 2014, she has gained extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan on the inpatient level of care, including the UPMC Center for Eating Disorders at Western Psychiatric Hospital and child/adolescent behavioral health units. Her clinical interests include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety/mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Bethany Porter is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her BSN from The George Washington University and her DNP from Robert Morris University. Since starting her nursing career in 2014, she has gained extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan on the inpatient level of care, including the UPMC Center for Eating Disorders at Western Psychiatric Hospital and child/adolescent behavioral health units. Her clinical interests include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety/mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(724) 598-9860 View (724) 598-9860
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Quakertown, PA 18951
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 provider.
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 provider.
(215) 883-9770 View (215) 883-9770
Photo of Lilian Ogujiofor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilian Ogujiofor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Ogujiofor is a certified registered nurse practitioner with dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. She is a highly motivated, team-oriented, and compassionate provider with the goal of providing evidence-based and individualized mental health care for each patient. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from West Chester University in 2016 and obtained her MSN from La Salle University in 2013 as well as Post-Master's in PMHNP in 2021 from Regis College.
Dr. Ogujiofor is a certified registered nurse practitioner with dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. She is a highly motivated, team-oriented, and compassionate provider with the goal of providing evidence-based and individualized mental health care for each patient. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from West Chester University in 2016 and obtained her MSN from La Salle University in 2013 as well as Post-Master's in PMHNP in 2021 from Regis College.
(717) 912-8510 View (717) 912-8510
Photo of Stephanie Reesman, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Reesman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Radnor, PA 19087
Stephanie Reesman is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) as well as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who practices in Pennsylvania. Stephanie is a graduate of Walden University, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health. Stephanie has been treating the Psychiatric population since 2005 and has worked with adults and children throughout these years. Stephanie is very passionate about providing quality, compassionate care across the lifespan.
Stephanie Reesman is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) as well as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who practices in Pennsylvania. Stephanie is a graduate of Walden University, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health. Stephanie has been treating the Psychiatric population since 2005 and has worked with adults and children throughout these years. Stephanie is very passionate about providing quality, compassionate care across the lifespan.
(484) 246-8705 View (484) 246-8705
Photo of Raheela Sultan, MD, Psychiatrist
Raheela Sultan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Glen Mills, PA 19342
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with experience in managing symptoms of ADHD, mood, anxiety, OCD, and trauma. I employ a holistic approach in treatment, recognizing that medication management of psychiatric illness makes up just a small part of a person s journey towards recovery. I encourage optimizing sleep, nutrition, and exercise and actively collaborate with psychotherapists, school counselors, PCPs, and other specialists to ensure successful communication between all involved parties.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with experience in managing symptoms of ADHD, mood, anxiety, OCD, and trauma. I employ a holistic approach in treatment, recognizing that medication management of psychiatric illness makes up just a small part of a person s journey towards recovery. I encourage optimizing sleep, nutrition, and exercise and actively collaborate with psychotherapists, school counselors, PCPs, and other specialists to ensure successful communication between all involved parties.
(484) 430-3520 View (484) 430-3520
Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, LPN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ijeoma Njoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPN, CNP
Verified Verified
Quakertown, PA 18951
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) 422-1794 View (267) 422-1794
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(484) 791-0410 View (484) 791-0410
Photo of Richard P Kluft, MD, Psychiatrist
Richard P Kluft
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I am an experienced and well-trained therapist able to use many treatment modalities. If you are highly motivated, you are my ideal patient.
I am an experienced and well-trained therapist able to use many treatment modalities. If you are highly motivated, you are my ideal patient.
(610) 228-4482 View (610) 228-4482
Photo of Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
(570) 682-5433 View (570) 682-5433
Photo of Farah Ahmad-Stout, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Farah Ahmad-Stout
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19109
Better understanding our relationships with others and with ourselves can allow us to develop new and healthier patterns. Understanding how your thoughts, feelings, and mood influence each other in less helpful ways (e.g. exacerbating symptoms) is a part of then being able to make positive change. I believe that medications, if indicated, can help improve quality of life and functioning. When considering potential benefits, I also strive to help you weigh all options in the context of your own personal goals, preferences, and possible ambivalence around taking medications. Often this is in conjunction with individual therapy.
Better understanding our relationships with others and with ourselves can allow us to develop new and healthier patterns. Understanding how your thoughts, feelings, and mood influence each other in less helpful ways (e.g. exacerbating symptoms) is a part of then being able to make positive change. I believe that medications, if indicated, can help improve quality of life and functioning. When considering potential benefits, I also strive to help you weigh all options in the context of your own personal goals, preferences, and possible ambivalence around taking medications. Often this is in conjunction with individual therapy.
(267) 214-2822 View (267) 214-2822
Photo of Roxanne C. Swistock, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roxanne C. Swistock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
(717) 942-9352 View (717) 942-9352
Photo of Juliana Ifeoma Omile, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juliana Ifeoma Omile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Juliana Omile has over 22 years of extensive expertise in Nursing, spanning from internal medicine to psychiatry. In her therapeutic approach Juliana focuses on leveraging the unique strengths, challenges and needs of each individual by focusing on the positive. Juliana's care is based on the premise that patients who require mental health care respond best to a combination of therapy and medication. She places special emphasis on the integration of a psychotherapeutic approach with careful and limited use of medication prescribed only when necessary.
Dr. Juliana Omile has over 22 years of extensive expertise in Nursing, spanning from internal medicine to psychiatry. In her therapeutic approach Juliana focuses on leveraging the unique strengths, challenges and needs of each individual by focusing on the positive. Juliana's care is based on the premise that patients who require mental health care respond best to a combination of therapy and medication. She places special emphasis on the integration of a psychotherapeutic approach with careful and limited use of medication prescribed only when necessary.
(484) 989-9808 View (484) 989-9808
Photo of Mutiat Ajibade - Essential Behavioral Health LLC , MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Essential Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Essential Behavioral Health LLC, your mental health is our top priority. We are committed to exercising the greatest standard of practice to meet the mental health of our clients’ needs. Empathetic psychiatric care in Pennsylvania from a private family owned psychiatric practice. Nurse Practitioner Mutiat. A has over a decade of experience and knowledge in mental health dealing with children, adolescent, adults and geriatric population.
At Essential Behavioral Health LLC, your mental health is our top priority. We are committed to exercising the greatest standard of practice to meet the mental health of our clients’ needs. Empathetic psychiatric care in Pennsylvania from a private family owned psychiatric practice. Nurse Practitioner Mutiat. A has over a decade of experience and knowledge in mental health dealing with children, adolescent, adults and geriatric population.
(484) 897-6345 View (484) 897-6345
Photo of Kimberly Joffe, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Joffe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Paoli, PA 19301
Kimberly Joffe, CRNP is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and part of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, which treats children, adolescents and adults for in-office and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatry. Ms. Joffe is trained in all areas of psychiatry including Attention Deficit Disorders, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. Ms. Joffe is available for Psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults 18 years of age and up. She is board certified to prescribe psychiatric medications. She is also a Clinical Instructor for The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing.
Kimberly Joffe, CRNP is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and part of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, which treats children, adolescents and adults for in-office and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatry. Ms. Joffe is trained in all areas of psychiatry including Attention Deficit Disorders, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. Ms. Joffe is available for Psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults 18 years of age and up. She is board certified to prescribe psychiatric medications. She is also a Clinical Instructor for The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing.
(610) 854-9406 View (610) 854-9406
Photo of Eileen Ruth Teyim, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eileen Ruth Teyim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
Dr Eileen Teyim is an ANCC board certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner and is a graduate of Desales University, Center Valley, Pa. She strives to provide culturally informed and patient centered care tailored to each individual and values the meaningful connections made with her patients. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This allows her to treat each patient with a holistic approach. She has extensive experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia.
Dr Eileen Teyim is an ANCC board certified psychiatric Nurse practitioner and is a graduate of Desales University, Center Valley, Pa. She strives to provide culturally informed and patient centered care tailored to each individual and values the meaningful connections made with her patients. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This allows her to treat each patient with a holistic approach. She has extensive experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia.
(610) 421-0243 View (610) 421-0243
Photo of Claudia Baldassano - Main Line Institute, MD, Psychiatrist
Main Line Institute
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Our team of Harvard-trained psychiatrists bring over 25 years of experience specializing in evidence-based psychiatry. We provide personalized and compassionate care through innovative treatments, including medication management and meticulously selected psychotherapy. Academically affiliated,  we stay current with up to date and innovative treatments and continue to present at academic meetings. We believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our approach is that it is important to spend time making a diagnosis before recommending treatment.
Our team of Harvard-trained psychiatrists bring over 25 years of experience specializing in evidence-based psychiatry. We provide personalized and compassionate care through innovative treatments, including medication management and meticulously selected psychotherapy. Academically affiliated,  we stay current with up to date and innovative treatments and continue to present at academic meetings. We believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our approach is that it is important to spend time making a diagnosis before recommending treatment.
(484) 917-5791 View (484) 917-5791
Photo of Kimberlee Renee Adams, PMHNP, , CRNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberlee Renee Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, , CRNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, PA 19007
My expertise lies in delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I am dedicated to addressing a range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
My expertise lies in delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I am dedicated to addressing a range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
(267) 209-8196 View (267) 209-8196
1
...

See more therapy options for Pennsylvania

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Pennsylvania who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
75% Bipolar Disorder
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% ADHD
70% Medication Management
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Pennsylvania see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Pennsylvania?

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.