Psychiatrists in Allison Park, PA
![Photo of Melissa Turkal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dbded21-4fb1-4a9f-87fb-6f1f3cbbaddc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Melissa Turkal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Turkal’s goal is to promote a safe space for women to begin their journey toward improved mental health. She strives to honor your lived experience. Dr. Turkal is grateful to assist her female and feminine identifying clients find the correct diagnosis, the right combination of medication, proper nutrition, exercise, and therapy to achieve emotional stability and optimal recovery.
Dr. Melissa Turkal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Turkal’s goal is to promote a safe space for women to begin their journey toward improved mental health. She strives to honor your lived experience. Dr. Turkal is grateful to assist her female and feminine identifying clients find the correct diagnosis, the right combination of medication, proper nutrition, exercise, and therapy to achieve emotional stability and optimal recovery.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, LPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfee1f27-e0e4-4275-9273-c808a09b62b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
![Photo of Linda Kim, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf3ad118-381a-45b4-a02e-2d1eda3784c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. Patients state that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. Patients state that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them.
![Photo of Kristen Cheslick - SolCentered Integrative Psychiatric Care, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b576352f-7bf7-49a6-a064-aa4189e1f68b/2/320x400.jpeg)
SolCentered Integrative Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
My name is Dr. Kristen Cheslick and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan (children/adolescents, adults and older adults). My available services include mental health evaluations, medication management, brief solution-based/supportive psychotherapy, and appropriate referrals as necessary. Email my office for an appointment today at contact@solcenteredcare.com. We have appointments available Monday through Friday and some weekends.
My name is Dr. Kristen Cheslick and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan (children/adolescents, adults and older adults). My available services include mental health evaluations, medication management, brief solution-based/supportive psychotherapy, and appropriate referrals as necessary. Email my office for an appointment today at contact@solcenteredcare.com. We have appointments available Monday through Friday and some weekends.
![Photo of Dr. Suzanne Yang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f631f2b-7e46-470d-9b25-3de939571def/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking to discover strengths to meet new challenges or define your sense of purpose? Are you having relationship issues at home, school, or work? Or maybe you are asking questions about your life story, its meaning, and your place in the world. Psychotherapy can be helpful in exploring and resolving these concerns. Every person has a story to tell. I offer insight-oriented psychotherapy, an approach that focuses on your perspective and unique story. A person’s feelings, thoughts, and choices may be influenced by factors from the past that are outside of one’s awareness and exert pressure on current experiences and events.
Seeking to discover strengths to meet new challenges or define your sense of purpose? Are you having relationship issues at home, school, or work? Or maybe you are asking questions about your life story, its meaning, and your place in the world. Psychotherapy can be helpful in exploring and resolving these concerns. Every person has a story to tell. I offer insight-oriented psychotherapy, an approach that focuses on your perspective and unique story. A person’s feelings, thoughts, and choices may be influenced by factors from the past that are outside of one’s awareness and exert pressure on current experiences and events.
![Photo of Bethany Porter, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cac68dd1-5ba2-4f58-b333-510e80484485/4/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany Porter is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her BSN from The George Washington University and her DNP from Robert Morris University. Since starting her nursing career in 2014, she has gained extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan on the inpatient level of care, including the UPMC Center for Eating Disorders at Western Psychiatric Hospital and child/adolescent behavioral health units. Her clinical interests include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety/mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Bethany Porter is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her BSN from The George Washington University and her DNP from Robert Morris University. Since starting her nursing career in 2014, she has gained extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan on the inpatient level of care, including the UPMC Center for Eating Disorders at Western Psychiatric Hospital and child/adolescent behavioral health units. Her clinical interests include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety/mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
![Photo of Melissa Lopez-Larson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/838bf499-da33-437d-b9ae-d1563932da69/1/320x400.jpeg)
Don't wait 2 weeks, appointments available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites including Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital and Cambridge Hospital, respectively. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
Don't wait 2 weeks, appointments available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites including Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital and Cambridge Hospital, respectively. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
![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 Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec6855fc-86df-4772-bb01-747f9fdd9ca4/1/320x400.png)
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15229 (Online Only)
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8541f3a6-c170-4caf-9c34-8b036808772a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Beverly Ann Curtis - Psy-Quest, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f45a7850-d9f0-44b5-8fe1-9c2aa6136123/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psy-Quest
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I partner with my patients to help identify, and prevent symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, impulsivity, focus, inattentiveness, recurring thoughts and compulsions. .For children and families, we develop a plan of treatment for emotional outbursts, anxiety, mood swings, aggression, fearfulness, school avoidance and sleep issues. Through biological interventions, lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and traditional approaches including medication management, I help my patients lead happier, more productive lives.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I partner with my patients to help identify, and prevent symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, impulsivity, focus, inattentiveness, recurring thoughts and compulsions. .For children and families, we develop a plan of treatment for emotional outbursts, anxiety, mood swings, aggression, fearfulness, school avoidance and sleep issues. Through biological interventions, lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and traditional approaches including medication management, I help my patients lead happier, more productive lives.
![Photo of Dr. Paige Forrest, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afffcb61-0620-4ebd-86b4-83cdc44db89b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a general adult practice. If you are interested in learning more about my practice please go to forrestpyschiatry.com. If you decide that you would like to request an appointment you can fill in the new patient screening form on the website.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a general adult practice. If you are interested in learning more about my practice please go to forrestpyschiatry.com. If you decide that you would like to request an appointment you can fill in the new patient screening form on the website.
![Photo of Carrie Kalmar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e401b134-503c-4b65-8a75-1884a3024e9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a PMHNP at New Directions, I am driven by compassion and dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. With specialized training and expertise in psychiatry, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of holistic mental health care options to address a wide range of psychiatric concerns. My primary goal is to create a warm and non-judgmental space where clients feel understood, heard and safe working together to find a treatment approach that best supports their unique needs.
As a PMHNP at New Directions, I am driven by compassion and dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. With specialized training and expertise in psychiatry, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of holistic mental health care options to address a wide range of psychiatric concerns. My primary goal is to create a warm and non-judgmental space where clients feel understood, heard and safe working together to find a treatment approach that best supports their unique needs.
![Photo of Muhammad Ilyas Shaikh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46cab7d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified psychiatrist for children, teens and adults in the greater Pittsburgh area. My goal is to relieve your stress, improve your self esteem and help coping with trauma with medication management. It is crucial to seek out help especially in these challenging times. I individualize psychiatric care where you feel safe and respected regardless of gender, race, orientation or religion. Please call Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care to start your journey with us. We have a wonderful support team to guide you on your path to recovery.
I am board certified psychiatrist for children, teens and adults in the greater Pittsburgh area. My goal is to relieve your stress, improve your self esteem and help coping with trauma with medication management. It is crucial to seek out help especially in these challenging times. I individualize psychiatric care where you feel safe and respected regardless of gender, race, orientation or religion. Please call Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care to start your journey with us. We have a wonderful support team to guide you on your path to recovery.
![Photo of Sylvia Boules, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d20cd8fe-c632-4fcf-9586-19d243979b6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified general psychiatrist with additional fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I trained in the Bronx where I learned to practice in a diverse, busy hospital setting. I came to Pittsburgh in 2019 and have been working in the outpatient world with children and adolescents ever since. I enjoy a collaborative approach of gathering perspectives from families, patients, and schools to make an accurate, kind, and thoughtful treatment plan.
I am a board certified general psychiatrist with additional fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I trained in the Bronx where I learned to practice in a diverse, busy hospital setting. I came to Pittsburgh in 2019 and have been working in the outpatient world with children and adolescents ever since. I enjoy a collaborative approach of gathering perspectives from families, patients, and schools to make an accurate, kind, and thoughtful treatment plan.
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f72154bc-e53f-4e70-9e6e-3eacd112d1e6/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25490e56-e49d-4644-a69b-2f504616e404/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Frank A. Fetterolf, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4295c6fd-b53d-40c6-9ff2-eb781b686f64/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is a curious individual who desires a solution to their problems by utilizing their existing talents. They need another perspective to restructure their relationship with themselves with the courage to learn something new. They aim to achieve sustainable change through self-affirmation rather than forced surrender. They want to feel empowered and in control, motivated by the desire for long-term health and well-being. They seek to integrate their psychological desires with physical actions, ultimately enhancing their self-esteem and mastery.
My ideal client is a curious individual who desires a solution to their problems by utilizing their existing talents. They need another perspective to restructure their relationship with themselves with the courage to learn something new. They aim to achieve sustainable change through self-affirmation rather than forced surrender. They want to feel empowered and in control, motivated by the desire for long-term health and well-being. They seek to integrate their psychological desires with physical actions, ultimately enhancing their self-esteem and mastery.
![Photo of Theresa Webster, CRNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b034fc9-b5ec-4312-8b48-a761f46032be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241 (Online Only)
Are you tired of your addiction defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your addiction overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop numbing your pain but instead break through it. You are ready to know happiness. Most of all , you are ready to live your life in recovery, without the chains of dependence. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to addiction, because recovery is not one size fits all.
Are you tired of your addiction defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your addiction overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop numbing your pain but instead break through it. You are ready to know happiness. Most of all , you are ready to live your life in recovery, without the chains of dependence. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to addiction, because recovery is not one size fits all.
![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.
See more therapy options for Allison Park
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Allison Park, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Allison Park, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | ComPsych |
How Psychiatrists in Allison Park, PA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Allison Park?
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.