Psychiatrists in Wexford, PA
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb0f843c-3409-438f-917b-67379df8b43b/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Sona Nadkarni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1246468-8413-4447-808d-8d66f9549d58/2/320x400.png)
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who completed my training at Allegheny General hospital in Pittsburgh. I am fellowship-trained in Child and Adolescent psychiatry from Western Psychiatric institute and Clinic of UPMC. Originally from India, where I completed my medical degree, my academic pursuits led me to Toronto, Canada where I worked as a research Coordinator for clinical trials in Cognitive Neurology, then to Albuquerque, New Mexico where I completed my internship and finally to Pittsburgh which I am proud to call home!
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who completed my training at Allegheny General hospital in Pittsburgh. I am fellowship-trained in Child and Adolescent psychiatry from Western Psychiatric institute and Clinic of UPMC. Originally from India, where I completed my medical degree, my academic pursuits led me to Toronto, Canada where I worked as a research Coordinator for clinical trials in Cognitive Neurology, then to Albuquerque, New Mexico where I completed my internship and finally to Pittsburgh which I am proud to call home!
![Photo of Paul Frye, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74a1217e-5a40-4f5e-a3d7-bdb19f52c294/1/320x400.jpeg)
Over three decades of practicing as a psychiatric physician, Dr. Paul Frye has developed a partnership approach to treatment planning. Dr. Frye provides information and recommendations, encouraging those in treatment to collaborate in the decisions. His approach to treatment is considered eclectic and medications are prescribed only if deemed to be necessary.
Over three decades of practicing as a psychiatric physician, Dr. Paul Frye has developed a partnership approach to treatment planning. Dr. Frye provides information and recommendations, encouraging those in treatment to collaborate in the decisions. His approach to treatment is considered eclectic and medications are prescribed only if deemed to be necessary.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c415ffa-f72a-4661-a6c5-27e5574df8d8/2/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25490e56-e49d-4644-a69b-2f504616e404/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Melissa Turkal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dbded21-4fb1-4a9f-87fb-6f1f3cbbaddc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Melissa Turkal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Turkal’s goal is to promote a safe space for women to begin their journey toward improved mental health. She strives to honor your lived experience. Dr. Turkal is grateful to assist her female and feminine identifying clients find the correct diagnosis, the right combination of medication, proper nutrition, exercise, and therapy to achieve emotional stability and optimal recovery.
Dr. Melissa Turkal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Turkal’s goal is to promote a safe space for women to begin their journey toward improved mental health. She strives to honor your lived experience. Dr. Turkal is grateful to assist her female and feminine identifying clients find the correct diagnosis, the right combination of medication, proper nutrition, exercise, and therapy to achieve emotional stability and optimal recovery.
![Photo of Donette Svidron - New Directions Psychiatric Services Wexford, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d0ae297-4093-4765-826d-d5f971951e2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Directions Psychiatric Services Wexford
Psychiatric Nurse, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Welcome! At New Directions, we offer an integrative, comprehensive approach to care that includes psychiatric services and counseling. We offer Tele-Psychiatry and in-office visits. We understand it can be difficult to seek help when you go through life with painful emotional states and feelings. Medications may not be the sole solution, but they can be a stepping stone utilized to ease the path towards easing your pain.
Welcome! At New Directions, we offer an integrative, comprehensive approach to care that includes psychiatric services and counseling. We offer Tele-Psychiatry and in-office visits. We understand it can be difficult to seek help when you go through life with painful emotional states and feelings. Medications may not be the sole solution, but they can be a stepping stone utilized to ease the path towards easing your pain.
![Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/647690b8-a75d-44c7-a9af-41d096278260/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
![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 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 Dr. Monica L Garrick Drago, MD, MSW, MJ, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d6e8c91-0d68-46be-8037-cc874cb1d77a/1/320x400.png)
My ideal clients are children (as young as 3), adults, and families. Parental involvement is crucial in therapy for children, and I advocate for supporting children with learning disabilities. I also have a strong history of helping students and parents navigate their educational rights, including at the college level. I mediate custody arrangements and troubled parent relationships, and I support parents dealing with behavioral difficulties in children or adolescents. My goal is to teach you that you will do well if you can; if you can’t, there is an issue that requires help with an emphasis on skills and understanding.
My ideal clients are children (as young as 3), adults, and families. Parental involvement is crucial in therapy for children, and I advocate for supporting children with learning disabilities. I also have a strong history of helping students and parents navigate their educational rights, including at the college level. I mediate custody arrangements and troubled parent relationships, and I support parents dealing with behavioral difficulties in children or adolescents. My goal is to teach you that you will do well if you can; if you can’t, there is an issue that requires help with an emphasis on skills and understanding.
![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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f72154bc-e53f-4e70-9e6e-3eacd112d1e6/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Kathleen Mcewen, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0909c21a-7f92-48b1-ba6a-4c0fd1c51b0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Mcewen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (Online Only)
Kathleen is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services LLC. 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
Kathleen is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services LLC. 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
![Photo of Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98ef3576-e60b-4ca5-8704-259fba7bbaba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tammy Lobach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Baden, PA 15005
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. Tammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified to
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. Tammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified to
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d955d8d8-4857-4808-b154-926f8ddfca6f/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Sarah G Robertson, DNP, CRNP , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a699c50a-4d42-45c7-bb28-452e4cc3b656/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah G Robertson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
My ideal client would be someone looking for improvement not just from medication but also in character. It's someone who is actively working on themselves along with their provider and other mental health professionals. The ideal patient understands that medication management isn't the end goal, but understands that it is a gateway to better mental health results and better overall health.
My ideal client would be someone looking for improvement not just from medication but also in character. It's someone who is actively working on themselves along with their provider and other mental health professionals. The ideal patient understands that medication management isn't the end goal, but understands that it is a gateway to better mental health results and better overall health.
![Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a793374-b273-46e2-9132-bfa28c128269/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7af000bf-9765-4a6b-a2f3-fc5e0bb60b22/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Dale E. Panzer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3211c13-22e1-4ce9-9c38-be00a47ba578/1/320x400.png)
I provide telepsychiatry and in-person services in a highly private setting in Gladwyne, PA. I have been in practice over 25 years and my typical patient is a professional who struggles with anxiety, depression or meeting the demands of a busy lie. Studies have repeatedly shown that the combination of medicine and psychotherapy is better than either alone, but treatment decisions must always be based on the individual's needs. I am one of the few providers with comprehensive skills in both and have additional qualifications and experience in in-depth psychotherapy that I am happy to discuss with you.
I provide telepsychiatry and in-person services in a highly private setting in Gladwyne, PA. I have been in practice over 25 years and my typical patient is a professional who struggles with anxiety, depression or meeting the demands of a busy lie. Studies have repeatedly shown that the combination of medicine and psychotherapy is better than either alone, but treatment decisions must always be based on the individual's needs. I am one of the few providers with comprehensive skills in both and have additional qualifications and experience in in-depth psychotherapy that I am happy to discuss with you.
See more therapy options for Wexford
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Wexford, PA
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Wexford, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
92% | ADHD |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Blue Shield |
How Psychiatrists in Wexford, PA see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Wexford?
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.