Psychiatrists in 15217
![Photo of Rachel Kosciusko - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3297962b-07f0-4126-baa1-4f172619d224/3/320x400.png)
Rachel Kosciusko - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Rachel studied psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, where she published research with the UPMC Liver Cancer Center Quality of Life Program. She continued her training at Western Psychiatric Hospital & spent three years leading therapy groups at the John Merck Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, where she processed anxiety, mood, and attention challenges. Rachel completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at DeSales University & is a Certified PA specializing in Psychiatry. While at DeSales, she completed additional training in neurology and served as a mental health mentor at the University.
Rachel studied psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, where she published research with the UPMC Liver Cancer Center Quality of Life Program. She continued her training at Western Psychiatric Hospital & spent three years leading therapy groups at the John Merck Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, where she processed anxiety, mood, and attention challenges. Rachel completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at DeSales University & is a Certified PA specializing in Psychiatry. While at DeSales, she completed additional training in neurology and served as a mental health mentor at the University.
![Photo of Sylvia Boules, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d20cd8fe-c632-4fcf-9586-19d243979b6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified general psychiatrist with additional fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I trained in the Bronx where I learned to practice in a diverse, busy hospital setting. I came to Pittsburgh in 2019 and have been working in the outpatient world with children and adolescents ever since. I enjoy a collaborative approach of gathering perspectives from families, patients, and schools to make an accurate, kind, and thoughtful treatment plan.
I am a board certified general psychiatrist with additional fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I trained in the Bronx where I learned to practice in a diverse, busy hospital setting. I came to Pittsburgh in 2019 and have been working in the outpatient world with children and adolescents ever since. I enjoy a collaborative approach of gathering perspectives from families, patients, and schools to make an accurate, kind, and thoughtful treatment plan.
![Photo of Greg Thorkelson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49babd34-ba65-48f9-98da-a63bfe5862a1/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Thorkelson is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh. He completed his adult residency training at Temple University and his child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at The University of Pittsburgh where he continued on in three roles: As Associate Medical Director at the Center for Integrative Medicine, as a staff psychiatrist at the John Merck Center for Autism and Developmental Disorders, and through the Visceral Inflammation and Pain (VIP) Center in the Department of Gastroenterology. Dr. Thorkelson specializes in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, autism, and ADHD.
Dr. Thorkelson is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh. He completed his adult residency training at Temple University and his child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at The University of Pittsburgh where he continued on in three roles: As Associate Medical Director at the Center for Integrative Medicine, as a staff psychiatrist at the John Merck Center for Autism and Developmental Disorders, and through the Visceral Inflammation and Pain (VIP) Center in the Department of Gastroenterology. Dr. Thorkelson specializes in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, autism, and ADHD.
![Photo of Luke Swider, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bccd5db2-7498-4ed9-8310-c0d1dbac121b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who helps adults with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and other mental health concerns attain a better quality of life. Together, we will work with the latest evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy to build a lasting connection and define and achieve your well-being goals. I received my undergraduate degree from Penn State University and my medical degree from the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Following this, I completed a psychiatry residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and was granted board certification by the ABPN.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who helps adults with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and other mental health concerns attain a better quality of life. Together, we will work with the latest evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy to build a lasting connection and define and achieve your well-being goals. I received my undergraduate degree from Penn State University and my medical degree from the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Following this, I completed a psychiatry residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and was granted board certification by the ABPN.
![Photo of Michelle Marino - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5767cb40-2fae-4b3f-b657-dc7ae3108ee5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Marino - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Michelle completed her post master's certificate in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program at Robert Morris University and her master's degree in nursing at the University of Pittsburgh. She has half a decade of experience working in behavioral health and over 20 years of experience in health care in general, including private practice, hospitals, home care, and most recently a pediatrician's office where she worked as part of the integrated care team.
Michelle completed her post master's certificate in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program at Robert Morris University and her master's degree in nursing at the University of Pittsburgh. She has half a decade of experience working in behavioral health and over 20 years of experience in health care in general, including private practice, hospitals, home care, and most recently a pediatrician's office where she worked as part of the integrated care team.
![Photo of Melanie Valenti - Mental Health Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f09881dc-e63f-4ef1-864e-2eac757c8363/1/320x400.png)
Melanie Valenti - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Melanie Valenti is a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practitioner (DNP) specializing in Psychiatry and Mental Health at the Nexus Group. She completed her doctorate degree at the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to joining the Nexus Group, Melanie had over 6 years of experience working at Western Psychiatric Hospital, caring for children, adolescents, and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and ADHD.
Melanie Valenti is a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practitioner (DNP) specializing in Psychiatry and Mental Health at the Nexus Group. She completed her doctorate degree at the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to joining the Nexus Group, Melanie had over 6 years of experience working at Western Psychiatric Hospital, caring for children, adolescents, and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and ADHD.
![Photo of Michelle Staley - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed436ba6-e8d3-4a4f-95ba-039f96fcf629/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Staley - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Michelle joined Nexus team with many years of experience as mental health physician assistant in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She received her undergraduate degree in Health Sciences and her Master of Physician Assistant Studies Degree from Duquesne University. Michelle also received Master Psychopharmacology Certificate from the Neuroscience Education Institute and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
Michelle joined Nexus team with many years of experience as mental health physician assistant in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She received her undergraduate degree in Health Sciences and her Master of Physician Assistant Studies Degree from Duquesne University. Michelle also received Master Psychopharmacology Certificate from the Neuroscience Education Institute and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
![Photo of Burt Singerman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b97bc003-e30d-473c-8fd0-7ad8c01e7f74/1/320x400.png)
I greatly enjoy the development of mutual trust in a partnership between a psychiatrist and patient. Without this, progress rarely occurs. I have extensive training in multiple psychotherapeutic techniques and have taught hundreds of psychiatric residents, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and medical students as the past chair of three academic psychiatry departments.
I greatly enjoy the development of mutual trust in a partnership between a psychiatrist and patient. Without this, progress rarely occurs. I have extensive training in multiple psychotherapeutic techniques and have taught hundreds of psychiatric residents, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and medical students as the past chair of three academic psychiatry departments.
![Photo of Nicole Snyder - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcda8ad0-27be-4670-857d-2f83e054efbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Snyder - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Nicole received her undergraduate degree in psychology from West Virginia University. From there, she moved to Connecticut where she completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Saint Joseph. During her undergraduate years, Nicole volunteered with various community outreach programs specializing in psychiatry. In addition, she completed internships in crisis intervention and spent two years working in an inpatient acute care psychiatric hospital at WVU Medicine.
Nicole received her undergraduate degree in psychology from West Virginia University. From there, she moved to Connecticut where she completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Saint Joseph. During her undergraduate years, Nicole volunteered with various community outreach programs specializing in psychiatry. In addition, she completed internships in crisis intervention and spent two years working in an inpatient acute care psychiatric hospital at WVU Medicine.
![Photo of Rahul Vasireddy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4621c5df-58fb-495a-995b-33ceb9cf89b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I practice accessible, cross-cultural, evidence based psychiatry with both medications and psychotherapy. I aim to provide a collaborative space for healing and introspection as we process difficult questions and feelings. I am board certified in psychiatry with further fellowship training in addiction psychiatry. I've worked with college students, professionals with substance use disorder, asylum seekers, and everyone in between.
I practice accessible, cross-cultural, evidence based psychiatry with both medications and psychotherapy. I aim to provide a collaborative space for healing and introspection as we process difficult questions and feelings. I am board certified in psychiatry with further fellowship training in addiction psychiatry. I've worked with college students, professionals with substance use disorder, asylum seekers, and everyone in between.
![Photo of Jayne Dalessio - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3f8b998-fae7-4bea-91d3-87e4b26c658d/2/320x400.png)
Jayne Dalessio - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Jayne obtained her MSN from Drexel University, studying in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program. She has a wealth of knowledge, having practiced in the mental health field since graduating from Penn State main campus in 2000 with a degree in psychology. Jayne has worked in various settings such as residential facilities for clients with autism, intellectual disabilities and started working as a nurse in 2009 at Western Psychiatric Hospital on the dual diagnosis unit after graduating from Heritage Valley Sewickley School of Nursing.
Jayne obtained her MSN from Drexel University, studying in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program. She has a wealth of knowledge, having practiced in the mental health field since graduating from Penn State main campus in 2000 with a degree in psychology. Jayne has worked in various settings such as residential facilities for clients with autism, intellectual disabilities and started working as a nurse in 2009 at Western Psychiatric Hospital on the dual diagnosis unit after graduating from Heritage Valley Sewickley School of Nursing.
![Photo of Brittani Farmer - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce4548d7-2ce2-492e-9eb8-b8feb3414128/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittani Farmer - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
After years of caring for patients with different psychiatric conditions in both inpatient and outpatient environments, Brittani developed a strong passion for mental health care and completed her graduate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
After years of caring for patients with different psychiatric conditions in both inpatient and outpatient environments, Brittani developed a strong passion for mental health care and completed her graduate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Kayla Ali - Psychiatry Mental Health, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/274cdb40-28a6-4c6b-94dc-2c88a0f0d051/2/320x400.png)
Kayla Ali - Psychiatry Mental Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
With a background in Health Sciences, Kayla completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at Saint Francis University and has been practicing as a Certified Physician Assistant since 2018. Before joining the Nexus Group team, Kayla worked in The Department of Family Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). During her time at UPMC, Kayla provided extensive psychiatric care to hundreds of patients with mental health issues, including management of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and addiction.
With a background in Health Sciences, Kayla completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at Saint Francis University and has been practicing as a Certified Physician Assistant since 2018. Before joining the Nexus Group team, Kayla worked in The Department of Family Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). During her time at UPMC, Kayla provided extensive psychiatric care to hundreds of patients with mental health issues, including management of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and addiction.
![Photo of Danielle Miller - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2c68a15-4bcb-4345-aec5-4876348d3c08/1/320x400.png)
Danielle Miller - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
![Photo of Rebekah DeChicko - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/153e88b3-bd58-4679-96d3-c1a71b5e2cb3/2/320x400.png)
Rebekah DeChicko - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Rebekah started her career path as a Registered Nurse working at Western Psychiatric Hospital. This experience ignited her passion for mental wellness. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing and completed her certification for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. She has over 15 years of experience and has cared for individuals with a variety of mental health challenges, including autism, mood disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In addition to Rebekah's impressive education & work history, she also received her certification for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
Rebekah started her career path as a Registered Nurse working at Western Psychiatric Hospital. This experience ignited her passion for mental wellness. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing and completed her certification for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. She has over 15 years of experience and has cared for individuals with a variety of mental health challenges, including autism, mood disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In addition to Rebekah's impressive education & work history, she also received her certification for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
![Photo of Kelly Walsh, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d40b675-5502-4231-b056-e8b8400b9bb0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Walsh is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Case Western Reserve University and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Ursuline College. Kelly has several years of experience treating multiple different psychiatric disorders in a community-based outpatient setting.
Kelly Walsh is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Case Western Reserve University and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Ursuline College. Kelly has several years of experience treating multiple different psychiatric disorders in a community-based outpatient setting.
![Photo of Lauren Naveh, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e2fcd15-9997-4c29-8f80-d7a8e49e231e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Naveh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217 (Online Only)
Lauren is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC. Our Expert Team is Ready to Help! T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
Lauren is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC. Our Expert Team is Ready to Help! T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
![Photo of Dr. Paige Forrest, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afffcb61-0620-4ebd-86b4-83cdc44db89b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a general adult practice. If you are interested in learning more about my practice please go to forrestpyschiatry.com. If you decide that you would like to request an appointment you can fill in the new patient screening form on the website.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a general adult practice. If you are interested in learning more about my practice please go to forrestpyschiatry.com. If you decide that you would like to request an appointment you can fill in the new patient screening form on the website.
![Photo of Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dfe2c71-5972-47f7-beef-291c51c3a566/1/320x400.png)
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217 (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.
![Photo of Dr. Monica Conn, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84909994-bebb-46c9-b5cf-c3349981b3f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Monica Conn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult and challenging. I want you to know that you are not alone, and there is hope for your recovery. I know that dealing with mental health conditions can be overwhelming and affect various aspects of your life, including work, relationships, and daily activities. However, I am here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. I want to assure you that seeking mental health care is a brave and proactive step towards healing.
I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult and challenging. I want you to know that you are not alone, and there is hope for your recovery. I know that dealing with mental health conditions can be overwhelming and affect various aspects of your life, including work, relationships, and daily activities. However, I am here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. I want to assure you that seeking mental health care is a brave and proactive step towards healing.
See more therapy options for 15217
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 15217
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 15217 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
91% | Medication Management |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
82% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | ADHD |
64% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Highmark |
95% | University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hea |
86% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in 15217 see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 15217?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.