Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
![Photo of Charles Thornton, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c482dff-0b48-4da3-86b8-23bc8f3dd379/1/320x400.png)
Hi, All. I’m Charles. Do you find that your family and friends don’t understand what you are going through? Do you feel like you are spinning your wheels and unable to complete your tasks at school or work? Or are you holding it together for everyone else but feel like anxiety is making you unravel? Perhaps you feel like you are down and disinterested in what you used to do. I know that it is hard to pull it together by ourselves sometimes.
Hi, All. I’m Charles. Do you find that your family and friends don’t understand what you are going through? Do you feel like you are spinning your wheels and unable to complete your tasks at school or work? Or are you holding it together for everyone else but feel like anxiety is making you unravel? Perhaps you feel like you are down and disinterested in what you used to do. I know that it is hard to pull it together by ourselves sometimes.
![Photo of Cara Gouldey, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42512eee-77fa-4aa4-a256-5281e477200c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cara Gouldey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
![Photo of Ruosi Liu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21cf4c57-d45d-40e2-9961-c7619d6c8349/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Liu is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. She primarily focuses on medication management but integrates therapeutic support into her sessions. For more in depth therapy needs, Dr. Liu encourages patients to have their own individual therapist.
Dr. Liu is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. She primarily focuses on medication management but integrates therapeutic support into her sessions. For more in depth therapy needs, Dr. Liu encourages patients to have their own individual therapist.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/291e595b-0d68-4b72-89f8-a8378dcc5927/2/320x400.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 Paul Joseph Resignato, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/000e3e8f-8a79-46a7-b20e-f8adb9103425/2/320x400.jpeg)
I view individuals as a “whole” with the understanding that our biology, social context, spirituality and community make us who we are. I frequently integrate these issues along with nutrition, exercise and lifestyle to support mental health. Underlying all my work with individuals and families is a foundation of open communication and a therapeutic relationship.
I view individuals as a “whole” with the understanding that our biology, social context, spirituality and community make us who we are. I frequently integrate these issues along with nutrition, exercise and lifestyle to support mental health. Underlying all my work with individuals and families is a foundation of open communication and a therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Habiba Mzougui - iMatter Wellness , CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5026e94-49ab-4026-b6b1-57bde630c001/3/320x400.jpeg)
iMatter Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
iMatter Wellness is a micro-practice specializing in the mental health care of children, adolescents, and young adults. We see children as young as 5 years old. How did the school year go? Did your child struggle academically, socially, or emotionally? Did you dread incoming phone calls between the hours of 8AM and 3PM?Have you wondered or has a teacher suspected your child might have ADHD? Be proactive this summer and establish services for your child today! September 2024 will be here before you know it. Contact us today! schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns and child's needs. Together we will plan for success!
iMatter Wellness is a micro-practice specializing in the mental health care of children, adolescents, and young adults. We see children as young as 5 years old. How did the school year go? Did your child struggle academically, socially, or emotionally? Did you dread incoming phone calls between the hours of 8AM and 3PM?Have you wondered or has a teacher suspected your child might have ADHD? Be proactive this summer and establish services for your child today! September 2024 will be here before you know it. Contact us today! schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns and child's needs. Together we will plan for success!
![Photo of David L. Lopez - Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Cornell, Faculty, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac28735f-20c4-44cf-b49b-c896afc07185/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Cornell, Faculty
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
![Photo of Esther Anyatonwu, DNP-PMH, NP-BC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/076c4d72-2378-4af0-8633-9f627b4c90f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Esther Anyatonwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-PMH, NP-BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19120 (Online Only)
Esther Anyatonwu DNP-PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CRNP has a combined 20 years of nursing experience. Her doctoral graduate degree was obtained from the prestigious Brandman University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice-Psychiatric Mental Health-Board Certified. She also holds a Masters in Nursing degree with a specialty in Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The founder of UMA Behavioral Health, LLC (www.umabehavioralhelathllc.com), she specializes in diagnosing and medication management of psychiatric disorders, including bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia disorders, and non-stimulant management of ADHD.
Esther Anyatonwu DNP-PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CRNP has a combined 20 years of nursing experience. Her doctoral graduate degree was obtained from the prestigious Brandman University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice-Psychiatric Mental Health-Board Certified. She also holds a Masters in Nursing degree with a specialty in Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The founder of UMA Behavioral Health, LLC (www.umabehavioralhelathllc.com), she specializes in diagnosing and medication management of psychiatric disorders, including bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia disorders, and non-stimulant management of ADHD.
![Photo of Sonia Alam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/575a393c-cb93-43a2-8861-4b537aa71471/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with each client to come up with the best treatment plan for you. I like to be flexible in my approach. I focus on med management and I highly encourage therapy as a co treatment. I often recommend optimizing sleep whether that involves a sleep study, medication or therapeutic techniques. I encourage patients to help me communicate with their therapists. I value exercise and nutrition and like to help patients make goals towards optimal health.
I work with each client to come up with the best treatment plan for you. I like to be flexible in my approach. I focus on med management and I highly encourage therapy as a co treatment. I often recommend optimizing sleep whether that involves a sleep study, medication or therapeutic techniques. I encourage patients to help me communicate with their therapists. I value exercise and nutrition and like to help patients make goals towards optimal health.
![Photo of Peter Murray - Cognitive Behavior Institute, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cde7536-dcab-49a1-9058-080add5c4621/1/320x400.png)
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19134 (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 Chris Pagnani - Chris Pagnani MD PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/470285b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
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Restore 360 LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, CRNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19151
At Restore 360, we approach mental health from a holistic and personalized approach. We’re not just treating the symptoms, we care about your total recovery.
At Restore 360, we approach mental health from a holistic and personalized approach. We’re not just treating the symptoms, we care about your total recovery.
![Photo of Melissa Brubaker, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dfbe4c6-8726-472f-93e0-67fd77310b61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Brubaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I’m Melissa, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I offer telehealth medication management for adults with a focus on burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Alongside medications, I emphasize a comprehensive approach to wellness, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, self-care practices and coping strategies. Together, we’ll identify your treatment goals and the best options for achieving them. - Private pay rate is $200 for INTAKE and $150 for follow-up.
Hi, I’m Melissa, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I offer telehealth medication management for adults with a focus on burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Alongside medications, I emphasize a comprehensive approach to wellness, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, self-care practices and coping strategies. Together, we’ll identify your treatment goals and the best options for achieving them. - Private pay rate is $200 for INTAKE and $150 for follow-up.
![Photo of David L. Fink, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e315abe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
David L. Fink
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
How do we sort out problems of living? How do we formulate who we are and who we want to become? How do we develop loving satisfying relationships? How much are these questions of the mind and to what extent are they about the biology of our brains? As a psychiatrist, these are the questions that have shaped my clinical practice for over 25 years.
How do we sort out problems of living? How do we formulate who we are and who we want to become? How do we develop loving satisfying relationships? How much are these questions of the mind and to what extent are they about the biology of our brains? As a psychiatrist, these are the questions that have shaped my clinical practice for over 25 years.
![Photo of Molly Robinson, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0301b156-b00e-42e5-ad4a-fa31c375f239/1/320x400.jpeg)
Molly Robinson is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. Molly believes that communication is key when it comes to developing a treatment plan. She always strives to have an open communication style and enjoys teaching her patients about their mental illness so that they can better work together as a team to find the best treatment plan that works for them. Outside of work, Molly enjoys creative writing, movies, books, animals, trivia, and the ukulele.
Molly Robinson is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. Molly believes that communication is key when it comes to developing a treatment plan. She always strives to have an open communication style and enjoys teaching her patients about their mental illness so that they can better work together as a team to find the best treatment plan that works for them. Outside of work, Molly enjoys creative writing, movies, books, animals, trivia, and the ukulele.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/077f8fab-b1d6-416d-a81f-ba51fc9c626a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Lori A. Albright, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5495c856-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lori A. Albright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53dc2c5c-0276-47dc-af35-078b0817c150/2/320x400.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 Morgan Campbell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58a6b54d-b225-4092-8b9b-daba295b5f6f/4/320x400.jpeg)
People who decide to seek care deserve a psychiatrist who is curious about their individual stories and goals, who is both realistic and optimistic, and who won’t judge them. Most importantly, they deserve a psychiatrist who is highly motivated to help them using tailor-made strategies which will lead to the fullest, most rapid improvement. I strive to be this kind of psychiatrist.
People who decide to seek care deserve a psychiatrist who is curious about their individual stories and goals, who is both realistic and optimistic, and who won’t judge them. Most importantly, they deserve a psychiatrist who is highly motivated to help them using tailor-made strategies which will lead to the fullest, most rapid improvement. I strive to be this kind of psychiatrist.
![Photo of Rhonda Cornitcher, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dce8b32-0ff9-4130-ae1d-a59bee5a5aa9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rhonda Cornitcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Rhonda Cornitcher, I am a PMHNP-BC. I have been working in the mental health field for the past 20 years. I obtained my graduate degree from Grand Canyon University in 2016. I graduated from Wilkes University, with a certificate program in 12/2022 nurse practitioner. I currently work in an outpatient setting serving community members who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
Hello, my name is Rhonda Cornitcher, I am a PMHNP-BC. I have been working in the mental health field for the past 20 years. I obtained my graduate degree from Grand Canyon University in 2016. I graduated from Wilkes University, with a certificate program in 12/2022 nurse practitioner. I currently work in an outpatient setting serving community members who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
- Bala Cynwyd
- Bryn Mawr
- Drexel Hill
- Gladwyne
- Haverford
- Havertown
- Jenkintown
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
200+
Average cost per session
$220
Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Philadelphia?
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.