Psychiatrists in Allegheny County, PA
![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 Danielle Miller - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2c68a15-4bcb-4345-aec5-4876348d3c08/1/320x400.png)
Danielle Miller - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
![Photo of Nicole Snyder - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcda8ad0-27be-4670-857d-2f83e054efbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Snyder - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Nicole received her undergraduate degree in psychology from West Virginia University. From there, she moved to Connecticut where she completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Saint Joseph. During her undergraduate years, Nicole volunteered with various community outreach programs specializing in psychiatry. In addition, she completed internships in crisis intervention and spent two years working in an inpatient acute care psychiatric hospital at WVU Medicine.
Nicole received her undergraduate degree in psychology from West Virginia University. From there, she moved to Connecticut where she completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Saint Joseph. During her undergraduate years, Nicole volunteered with various community outreach programs specializing in psychiatry. In addition, she completed internships in crisis intervention and spent two years working in an inpatient acute care psychiatric hospital at WVU Medicine.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbbce8f9-1782-412f-bd43-8f06dad683e4/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a882395f-8846-4938-9a9b-efea728f4592/2/320x400.png)
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 Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c3044d7-bc1b-4e7d-b006-c2216efae9da/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay 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 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 Ashley Barczok, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cde521b6-e13d-4d8a-87dc-35b026826c7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Barczok is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Ashland University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio State University. Ashley likes to take the time to get to know each client as an individual rather than as a diagnosis and works with that individual to find an approach to treatment that works best. She keeps an open door to feedback and concerns at any point. Outside of work, Ashley spends a majority of her home time with her young daughter as she develops and explores her own interests.
Ashley Barczok is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Ashland University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio State University. Ashley likes to take the time to get to know each client as an individual rather than as a diagnosis and works with that individual to find an approach to treatment that works best. She keeps an open door to feedback and concerns at any point. Outside of work, Ashley spends a majority of her home time with her young daughter as she develops and explores her own interests.
![Photo of Jayne Dalessio - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3f8b998-fae7-4bea-91d3-87e4b26c658d/2/320x400.png)
Jayne Dalessio - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Jayne obtained her MSN from Drexel University, studying in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program. She has a wealth of knowledge, having practiced in the mental health field since graduating from Penn State main campus in 2000 with a degree in psychology. Jayne has worked in various settings such as residential facilities for clients with autism, intellectual disabilities and started working as a nurse in 2009 at Western Psychiatric Hospital on the dual diagnosis unit after graduating from Heritage Valley Sewickley School of Nursing.
Jayne obtained her MSN from Drexel University, studying in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program. She has a wealth of knowledge, having practiced in the mental health field since graduating from Penn State main campus in 2000 with a degree in psychology. Jayne has worked in various settings such as residential facilities for clients with autism, intellectual disabilities and started working as a nurse in 2009 at Western Psychiatric Hospital on the dual diagnosis unit after graduating from Heritage Valley Sewickley School of Nursing.
![Photo of Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9144b90c-c3e2-4d1d-8bc3-e0f0190d28d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nicole Brynes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides psychiatric medication management, consultation & diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents & adults to help you achieve your highest potential. Perhaps you are interested in learning what medications might be options for you or your loved one, want a second opinion, or are ready to start regular medication management with an experienced provider. Please note that in accordance with the Ryan-Haight Act, I do not prescribe controlled substances (including stimulants or benzodiazepines) to those outside of Pennsylvania.
Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides psychiatric medication management, consultation & diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents & adults to help you achieve your highest potential. Perhaps you are interested in learning what medications might be options for you or your loved one, want a second opinion, or are ready to start regular medication management with an experienced provider. Please note that in accordance with the Ryan-Haight Act, I do not prescribe controlled substances (including stimulants or benzodiazepines) to those outside of Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Dr. Axeline Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e023e4e-79b3-4e18-80c0-8bab3989e4aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognizant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognizant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
![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.
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![Photo of Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dfe2c71-5972-47f7-beef-291c51c3a566/1/320x400.png)
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221 (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 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 Dr. Monica Conn, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84909994-bebb-46c9-b5cf-c3349981b3f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Monica Conn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15233
I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult and challenging. I want you to know that you are not alone, and there is hope for your recovery. I know that dealing with mental health conditions can be overwhelming and affect various aspects of your life, including work, relationships, and daily activities. However, I am here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. I want to assure you that seeking mental health care is a brave and proactive step towards healing.
I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult and challenging. I want you to know that you are not alone, and there is hope for your recovery. I know that dealing with mental health conditions can be overwhelming and affect various aspects of your life, including work, relationships, and daily activities. However, I am here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. I want to assure you that seeking mental health care is a brave and proactive step towards healing.
![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
Moon Township, PA 15108
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 Adam Tripp - Better Stories in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60aaa428-4870-41b8-92c4-a99be8b33835/3/320x400.jpeg)
Better Stories in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224 (Online Only)
As board certified mental health providers at Better Stories, we want to help you destress and improve your quality life with our years of experience and expertise in treating patients with a broad range of mental health disorders. Your care involves us working together, you provide your life experiences and perspective, we use our skills and experience in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Together we will create a treatment plan that we agree will help you reduce your symptoms and yield a greater quality of life.
As board certified mental health providers at Better Stories, we want to help you destress and improve your quality life with our years of experience and expertise in treating patients with a broad range of mental health disorders. Your care involves us working together, you provide your life experiences and perspective, we use our skills and experience in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Together we will create a treatment plan that we agree will help you reduce your symptoms and yield a greater quality of life.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a50484fd-e8ef-4826-a746-d81411cc01fd/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Michelle Staley - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed436ba6-e8d3-4a4f-95ba-039f96fcf629/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Staley - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Michelle joined Nexus team with many years of experience as mental health physician assistant in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She received her undergraduate degree in Health Sciences and her Master of Physician Assistant Studies Degree from Duquesne University. Michelle also received Master Psychopharmacology Certificate from the Neuroscience Education Institute and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
Michelle joined Nexus team with many years of experience as mental health physician assistant in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She received her undergraduate degree in Health Sciences and her Master of Physician Assistant Studies Degree from Duquesne University. Michelle also received Master Psychopharmacology Certificate from the Neuroscience Education Institute and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
![Photo of Jennifer Richards, CRNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b304b99f-4118-489b-be7f-0780484d9057/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Richards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroeville, PA 15146
My ideal clients seek comprehensive, compassionate psychiatric care. I work with adults and children, helping them overcome a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. I embrace a holistic approach, combining mindfulness-based practices with medication management. Clients value my dual certifications that honor the mind-body connection. I also assist those with ADHD, bipolar/mood disorders, eating disorders, and behavioral/emotional challenges across the lifespan—children, adolescents, and adults. In a safe, non-judgmental environment, I provide open discussions about mental health concerns,
My ideal clients seek comprehensive, compassionate psychiatric care. I work with adults and children, helping them overcome a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. I embrace a holistic approach, combining mindfulness-based practices with medication management. Clients value my dual certifications that honor the mind-body connection. I also assist those with ADHD, bipolar/mood disorders, eating disorders, and behavioral/emotional challenges across the lifespan—children, adolescents, and adults. In a safe, non-judgmental environment, I provide open discussions about mental health concerns,
![Photo of Kayla Ali - Psychiatry Mental Health, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/274cdb40-28a6-4c6b-94dc-2c88a0f0d051/2/320x400.png)
Kayla Ali - Psychiatry Mental Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
With a background in Health Sciences, Kayla completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at Saint Francis University and has been practicing as a Certified Physician Assistant since 2018. Before joining the Nexus Group team, Kayla worked in The Department of Family Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). During her time at UPMC, Kayla provided extensive psychiatric care to hundreds of patients with mental health issues, including management of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and addiction.
With a background in Health Sciences, Kayla completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at Saint Francis University and has been practicing as a Certified Physician Assistant since 2018. Before joining the Nexus Group team, Kayla worked in The Department of Family Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). During her time at UPMC, Kayla provided extensive psychiatric care to hundreds of patients with mental health issues, including management of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and addiction.
See more therapy options for Allegheny County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Allegheny County, PA
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Allegheny County, PA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Medication Management |
64% | ADHD |
64% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Allegheny County, PA see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Allegheny County?
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.