Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
![Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb358bc2-6b86-4328-8ccc-faa3844002b8/2/320x400.png)
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
![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.
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.
![Photo of Nefertiti Isoke, LCSW, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2cac561-fdb4-4b23-81c2-38d5fff0bc70/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nefertiti Isoke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LCSW, PHMNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been conducting therapy for over twenty years. While doing this work, I became aware of the severe shortage of providers able to prescribe psychotropic medication and its detrimental impact on my client's mental health. So, I decided to return to school to provide more integrated care. I became a registered nurse (RN) and then completed my MSN at NYU’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been conducting therapy for over twenty years. While doing this work, I became aware of the severe shortage of providers able to prescribe psychotropic medication and its detrimental impact on my client's mental health. So, I decided to return to school to provide more integrated care. I became a registered nurse (RN) and then completed my MSN at NYU’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program.
![Photo of Prianka Sinha, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73190f59-9b81-4329-accb-78f2766da6f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I was born and raised in New Jersey, and moved to Erie, PA for medical school, internship, residency, and fellowship. I am trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and have also certified in ECT. I received my medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and completed residency and fellowship with Millcreek Community Hospital. During my time working as a child and adolescent psychiatrist in Erie, PA, I was given an incredible opportunity to serve a community in need.
I was born and raised in New Jersey, and moved to Erie, PA for medical school, internship, residency, and fellowship. I am trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and have also certified in ECT. I received my medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and completed residency and fellowship with Millcreek Community Hospital. During my time working as a child and adolescent psychiatrist in Erie, PA, I was given an incredible opportunity to serve a community in need.
![Photo of Cristina Lanzillotta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31a2bd13-3060-429d-96c3-fc555082f9c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cristina Lanzillotta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Not accepting new clients
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
![Photo of Latoya Mohammed, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/919af9b8-c152-4002-9375-8849b29ecbf7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Latoya Mohammed is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Latoya is a graduate of Regis College and completed her NP clinical work in the Reading, PA area. She has worked in various psychiatric facilities in and around the Philadelphia area. She has experience with inpatient, outpatient, partial programs, and Mobile Crisis. Her 5 year nursing background includes working with various mental health disorders. Latoya enjoys working with people of all ages and backgrounds, and wants to serve as a resource for those going through their personal mental health journey.
Latoya Mohammed is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Latoya is a graduate of Regis College and completed her NP clinical work in the Reading, PA area. She has worked in various psychiatric facilities in and around the Philadelphia area. She has experience with inpatient, outpatient, partial programs, and Mobile Crisis. Her 5 year nursing background includes working with various mental health disorders. Latoya enjoys working with people of all ages and backgrounds, and wants to serve as a resource for those going through their personal mental health journey.
![Photo of Karen Bendak, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1571955a-1474-46fc-bdb0-132bd9bc3183/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Bendak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Karen Bendak and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Diploma in Nursing at Aria Health School of Nursing. This extensive three-year program provided me with comprehensive clinical knowledge. I then received my bachelor’s degree in nursing at Pennsylvania State University. After over a decade serving the mental health population I obtained my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. I provide psychiatric evaluations, supportive therapy and medication management within a safe space to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship.
Hello! My name is Karen Bendak and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I received my Diploma in Nursing at Aria Health School of Nursing. This extensive three-year program provided me with comprehensive clinical knowledge. I then received my bachelor’s degree in nursing at Pennsylvania State University. After over a decade serving the mental health population I obtained my master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. I provide psychiatric evaluations, supportive therapy and medication management within a safe space to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship.
![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 Pamela Talbot-Atkinson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffb65d17-b237-44e5-b1be-b2b76a9d88d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela Talbot-Atkinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am Pamela Talbot-Atkinson, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of experience as a registered nurse, including five years dedicated to mental health care for individuals with both physical and mental health conditions. I hold both a bachelor's and master's degrees from Chamberlain University in Illinois.
I am Pamela Talbot-Atkinson, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of experience as a registered nurse, including five years dedicated to mental health care for individuals with both physical and mental health conditions. I hold both a bachelor's and master's degrees from Chamberlain University in Illinois.
![Photo of Franklin George Maleson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b5f7a7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I regard empathy, responsiveness, and respect for the patient as core therapeutic values. While I tailor treatment to the individual, as a psychoanalyst I place special importance on gaining insight about unconscious contributors to current difficulties. I also appreciate the importance of clarifying and resolving here-and-now problems. When appropriate I prescribe medications or work short-term. My style is collaborative rather than authoritarian. For many years I have taught psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to trainees in these fields. I also teach professional ethics. I have published in the major journals in my field and am a training and supervising psychoanalyst.
I regard empathy, responsiveness, and respect for the patient as core therapeutic values. While I tailor treatment to the individual, as a psychoanalyst I place special importance on gaining insight about unconscious contributors to current difficulties. I also appreciate the importance of clarifying and resolving here-and-now problems. When appropriate I prescribe medications or work short-term. My style is collaborative rather than authoritarian. For many years I have taught psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to trainees in these fields. I also teach professional ethics. I have published in the major journals in my field and am a training and supervising psychoanalyst.
![Photo of Marcia Starkman, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f241be2f-2229-470b-8a88-24aa595f29bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marcia Starkman
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Things are tough all over! It can be hard to ask for & find help. I’m a warm, compassionate, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist in solo practice. I ONLY do "talk therapy,” using a combination of evidence based methods. I do NOT provide OR refill medications OR prescriptions! Confidential (e-mail, text, video, phone) and remote - whatever way works for you. I mainly work with women, but welcome everyone! My specialties are reproductive mental health (PMDD, PMAD, pregnancy loss, infertility, menopause), anxiety/mood disorders, BPD, HSPs, kids, life transitions, disordered eating, nomads, nurses, young adults & college students.
Things are tough all over! It can be hard to ask for & find help. I’m a warm, compassionate, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist in solo practice. I ONLY do "talk therapy,” using a combination of evidence based methods. I do NOT provide OR refill medications OR prescriptions! Confidential (e-mail, text, video, phone) and remote - whatever way works for you. I mainly work with women, but welcome everyone! My specialties are reproductive mental health (PMDD, PMAD, pregnancy loss, infertility, menopause), anxiety/mood disorders, BPD, HSPs, kids, life transitions, disordered eating, nomads, nurses, young adults & college students.
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![Photo of Tracey Jones - Tracey Jones, M.D. - PsychPhilly, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9bdc19f-13a7-4bd2-ac64-858a2572b466/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tracey Jones, M.D. - PsychPhilly
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Getting well (and staying well) is a multi-layered process that encompasses the health of the mind, body, and spirit. We at PsychPhilly endorse a "team approach" to wellness. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with other healthcare providers to establish and optimize wellness plans for those seeking care. Few of us can accomplish everything by ourselves.
Getting well (and staying well) is a multi-layered process that encompasses the health of the mind, body, and spirit. We at PsychPhilly endorse a "team approach" to wellness. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with other healthcare providers to establish and optimize wellness plans for those seeking care. Few of us can accomplish everything by ourselves.
![Photo of Andrew Renzi, PMHNP , CRNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ccfbf2b-5a49-4a5f-bce9-da34c095f929/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Renzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , CRNP, RN
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19148
At the heart of our mental health practice is Andrew Renzi PMHNP-BC, a dedicated and empathetic Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and a deeply compassionate approach to his work. He believes in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms, and takes the time to truly listen and understand each patient's unique experiences and challenges. Andrews warm demeanor and non-judgmental attitude create a safe, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable opening up and exploring their mental health concerns. As a board-certified PMHNP, Andrew offers a comprehensive range of psyc
At the heart of our mental health practice is Andrew Renzi PMHNP-BC, a dedicated and empathetic Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and a deeply compassionate approach to his work. He believes in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms, and takes the time to truly listen and understand each patient's unique experiences and challenges. Andrews warm demeanor and non-judgmental attitude create a safe, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable opening up and exploring their mental health concerns. As a board-certified PMHNP, Andrew offers a comprehensive range of psyc
![Photo of Russell Bohner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afb0e5df-393b-4583-b86f-5f543089c3c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Russell Bohner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Russell Bohner is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked with psychiatric patients for over 21 years. Through his education and previous practice experience, Russell has accumulated a wide range of experiences working with people from adolescents to the elderly. Russell started his career in psychiatry as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and worked his way to a Master's degree in Nursing (MSN) at Wilkes University before obtaining his Nurse Practitioner (NP) license.
Russell Bohner is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked with psychiatric patients for over 21 years. Through his education and previous practice experience, Russell has accumulated a wide range of experiences working with people from adolescents to the elderly. Russell started his career in psychiatry as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and worked his way to a Master's degree in Nursing (MSN) at Wilkes University before obtaining his Nurse Practitioner (NP) license.
![Photo of Jenny Joseph, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc522303-ff96-4342-b457-ce50032808d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jenny Joseph is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who specializes in medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She completed medical school at St. George’s University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency training at New York Medical College at Metropolitan Hospital Center. She has worked with an array of patient populations and treats conditions including mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
Dr. Jenny Joseph is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who specializes in medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She completed medical school at St. George’s University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency training at New York Medical College at Metropolitan Hospital Center. She has worked with an array of patient populations and treats conditions including mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Scott Ambrass, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fff24f9-acaa-474d-befa-d4c1399d2c65/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Ambrass earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The College of New Jersey and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Thomas Jefferson University. While working for the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania on their neurological and brain injury rehabilitation unit, he completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Penn State University and his Master of Science in Nursing from Monmouth University. Scott was board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in late 2018 and began with Life Stance in June of 2020.
Scott Ambrass earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The College of New Jersey and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Thomas Jefferson University. While working for the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania on their neurological and brain injury rehabilitation unit, he completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Penn State University and his Master of Science in Nursing from Monmouth University. Scott was board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in late 2018 and began with Life Stance in June of 2020.
![Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1a67428-23d6-487e-9058-5af43b5f1d99/1/320x400.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 Alexandra DiVentura, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9af2b24-32c7-4df2-8913-fb74db3b97e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra DiVentura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Hi, I do medication management for a range of psychiatric issues. I also work with ketamine to help depression, anxiety, PTSD and OCD.
Hi, I do medication management for a range of psychiatric issues. I also work with ketamine to help depression, anxiety, PTSD and OCD.
![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 Cyndia Choi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ba6be74-85d5-4348-ae87-b3ae3ba7a74c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cyndia Choi has been board certified in psychiatry since 1991. Her specialty is medication management, however she believes that a therapeutic relationship is crucial to treatment. Dr. Choi values the privilege of getting to know each patient personally to develop a patient-centered plan of care. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Choi are 30 minutes to check on medication effects and provide supportive therapy. If she believes that you may benefit from additional therapy, Dr. Choi may recommend including a therapist to your treatment team. Dr. Choi also believes in a holistic approach toward helping you achieve a healthy life.
Dr. Cyndia Choi has been board certified in psychiatry since 1991. Her specialty is medication management, however she believes that a therapeutic relationship is crucial to treatment. Dr. Choi values the privilege of getting to know each patient personally to develop a patient-centered plan of care. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Choi are 30 minutes to check on medication effects and provide supportive therapy. If she believes that you may benefit from additional therapy, Dr. Choi may recommend including a therapist to your treatment team. Dr. Choi also believes in a holistic approach toward helping you achieve a healthy life.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
200+
Average cost per session
$215
Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Medication Management |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | 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.