Psychiatrists in Altoona, PA
![Photo of Bridgette Nelson - Trilessence, MSN/PHN, CRNP, PMHNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61e2b098-e0c4-469f-bb1e-1942e93564d3/5/320x400.jpeg)
Trilessence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/PHN, CRNP, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
Altoona, PA 16601
Our offices provide a full range of services to treat your mental, emotional and psychological health. We conduct on-site assessments and testing for various conditions, and then put together an appropriate treatment plan, including medication management and/or psychotherapy services as needed. Our offices are also available for individual and family counseling. Our certified therapists will work with you to help manage issues with anger, anxiety, depression, guilt, abuse, grief, including certain traumas.
Our offices provide a full range of services to treat your mental, emotional and psychological health. We conduct on-site assessments and testing for various conditions, and then put together an appropriate treatment plan, including medication management and/or psychotherapy services as needed. Our offices are also available for individual and family counseling. Our certified therapists will work with you to help manage issues with anger, anxiety, depression, guilt, abuse, grief, including certain traumas.
![Photo of Lisa Lynn Hengen - Green Pastures Mental Health Services, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b7f210a-75e8-4d5a-9fe7-75786f71c00b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Green Pastures Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Altoona, PA 16602 (Online Only)
Telepsych PA statewide. New patients seen within 1-2 weeks. Now offering remote QB testing for ADHD. At Green Pastures Mental Health Services, we believe that care should be accessible, compassionate, & patient-centered. Our team of board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality telepsychiatric care from the comfort & convenience of your own home. Your mental well-being is our top priority, & we are here to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier life.Services We Offer: Psychiatric Assessment. Medication Management, Psychotherapy, Education.
Telepsych PA statewide. New patients seen within 1-2 weeks. Now offering remote QB testing for ADHD. At Green Pastures Mental Health Services, we believe that care should be accessible, compassionate, & patient-centered. Our team of board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality telepsychiatric care from the comfort & convenience of your own home. Your mental well-being is our top priority, & we are here to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier life.Services We Offer: Psychiatric Assessment. Medication Management, Psychotherapy, Education.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b82bde3-4490-47ec-873a-f91d51ef6b36/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Altoona, PA 16601 (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
Online Psychiatrists
![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.
![Photo of Katherine Benson, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bf86d3e-874a-4371-b42b-30e8f3a1721d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Williamsport, PA 17701 (Online Only)
My passion for collaboration and client advocacy, combined with nearly 15 years' nursing and mental health experience, means that I am uniquely suited to help clients identify challenges, and enabling them to meet their mental health goals. While all visits are provided via telehealth, I reside in the community I serve, and I believe that enabling individuals to grow stronger also enables communities to grow stronger. Through my years spent in training and practicing Psychiatry-Mental Health Nursing, I have learned that the solution is rarely as simple as taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
My passion for collaboration and client advocacy, combined with nearly 15 years' nursing and mental health experience, means that I am uniquely suited to help clients identify challenges, and enabling them to meet their mental health goals. While all visits are provided via telehealth, I reside in the community I serve, and I believe that enabling individuals to grow stronger also enables communities to grow stronger. Through my years spent in training and practicing Psychiatry-Mental Health Nursing, I have learned that the solution is rarely as simple as taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
![Photo of Lucy Krut, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8283a14e-c196-4812-afe8-e3920d9c5319/1/320x400.jpeg)
I view every client as an individual and collaborate with them to develop a treatment plan that meets their specific needs. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions at both Journey Locations (Murrysville and Green Tree).
I view every client as an individual and collaborate with them to develop a treatment plan that meets their specific needs. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions at both Journey Locations (Murrysville and Green Tree).
![Photo of Rebekah DeChicko - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/153e88b3-bd58-4679-96d3-c1a71b5e2cb3/2/320x400.png)
Rebekah DeChicko - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Rebekah started her career path as a Registered Nurse working at Western Psychiatric Hospital. This experience ignited her passion for mental wellness. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing and completed her certification for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. She has over 15 years of experience and has cared for individuals with a variety of mental health challenges, including autism, mood disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In addition to Rebekah's impressive education & work history, she also received her certification for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
Rebekah started her career path as a Registered Nurse working at Western Psychiatric Hospital. This experience ignited her passion for mental wellness. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing and completed her certification for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. She has over 15 years of experience and has cared for individuals with a variety of mental health challenges, including autism, mood disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In addition to Rebekah's impressive education & work history, she also received her certification for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
![Photo of Beth Marcieski, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20dbc60a-d8d5-42b1-b45a-65144245b4b4/1/320x400.png)
I am a Physician Assistant at the Greensburg location of New Directions who provides psychiatry services in person and via telehealth. My physician assistant training was at St. Francis University in Loretto and University of Nebraska Medical Center. I have a diverse professional background with expertise in the fields of mental health and addiction medicine. I work with adults facing depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and other psychiatric conditions. Through thorough evaluations, I make accurate diagnoses and create personalized treatment plans.
I am a Physician Assistant at the Greensburg location of New Directions who provides psychiatry services in person and via telehealth. My physician assistant training was at St. Francis University in Loretto and University of Nebraska Medical Center. I have a diverse professional background with expertise in the fields of mental health and addiction medicine. I work with adults facing depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and other psychiatric conditions. Through thorough evaluations, I make accurate diagnoses and create personalized treatment plans.
![Photo of Michelle Marino - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5767cb40-2fae-4b3f-b657-dc7ae3108ee5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Marino - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Michelle completed her post master's certificate in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program at Robert Morris University and her master's degree in nursing at the University of Pittsburgh. She has half a decade of experience working in behavioral health and over 20 years of experience in health care in general, including private practice, hospitals, home care, and most recently a pediatrician's office where she worked as part of the integrated care team.
Michelle completed her post master's certificate in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program at Robert Morris University and her master's degree in nursing at the University of Pittsburgh. She has half a decade of experience working in behavioral health and over 20 years of experience in health care in general, including private practice, hospitals, home care, and most recently a pediatrician's office where she worked as part of the integrated care team.
![Photo of Michelle L Marino, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a15676ea-d259-4307-ad90-3efdb2b88e23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle L Marino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kittanning, PA 16201
I offer a comprehensive approach to mental health care. I provide personalized care that goes beyond traditional mental health treatment by combining traditional psychiatric services like psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy with a holistic wellness approach. I believe optimal mental health requires alignment of mind, body and spirit. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes through evidence-based treatments, integrative modalities, community support and self-care practices. I focus on healing for long term success.
I offer a comprehensive approach to mental health care. I provide personalized care that goes beyond traditional mental health treatment by combining traditional psychiatric services like psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy with a holistic wellness approach. I believe optimal mental health requires alignment of mind, body and spirit. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes through evidence-based treatments, integrative modalities, community support and self-care practices. I focus on healing for long term success.
![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
4 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. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4245f47-eea8-4816-8648-7dfc120735bf/2/320x400.png)
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7af000bf-9765-4a6b-a2f3-fc5e0bb60b22/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of 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 Nazanin Ehsani Silver - NES Boutique Psychiatry, MD, MPH, FACOG, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fcb64eb-ab3d-4b96-9bbb-ebe7be061c7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
We know women’s mental health is often overlooked. NES Boutique Psychiatry makes it a priority. We see women with all psychiatric diagnosis and offer consultations, medication management, and therapy. We specialize in mood and anxiety disorders related to life events specific to the female experience.
We know women’s mental health is often overlooked. NES Boutique Psychiatry makes it a priority. We see women with all psychiatric diagnosis and offer consultations, medication management, and therapy. We specialize in mood and anxiety disorders related to life events specific to the female experience.
![Photo of Peter D Murray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5243d222-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter D Murray
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
I spent two decades as a psychiatrist in a psychiatric emergency room, and my heart always went out to all of the people who I saw who I thought were misdiagnosed and improperly treated. I hope to help change that now that I have moved into providing individual treatment. I am not a psychiatrist who just wants to see you just to repeatedly write unending prescriptions, either. More than anything, I want to just UNDERSTAND who you are and what you need. If we can achieve THAT, then I promise that I will do my best to help you get the BEST treatment for your condition and your situation.
I spent two decades as a psychiatrist in a psychiatric emergency room, and my heart always went out to all of the people who I saw who I thought were misdiagnosed and improperly treated. I hope to help change that now that I have moved into providing individual treatment. I am not a psychiatrist who just wants to see you just to repeatedly write unending prescriptions, either. More than anything, I want to just UNDERSTAND who you are and what you need. If we can achieve THAT, then I promise that I will do my best to help you get the BEST treatment for your condition and your situation.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25490e56-e49d-4644-a69b-2f504616e404/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Melissa Brubaker, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dfbe4c6-8726-472f-93e0-67fd77310b61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Brubaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15212 (Online Only)
Next availability Sept 10th - Hi, I’m Melissa, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I offer telehealth medication management for adults with a focus on burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Alongside medications, I emphasize a comprehensive approach to wellness, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, self-care practices and coping strategies. Together, we’ll identify your treatment goals and the best options for achieving them.
Next availability Sept 10th - Hi, I’m Melissa, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I offer telehealth medication management for adults with a focus on burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Alongside medications, I emphasize a comprehensive approach to wellness, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, self-care practices and coping strategies. Together, we’ll identify your treatment goals and the best options for achieving them.
![Photo of Patricia Webb, PhD, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1abdaee1-4c06-45b0-89fe-d24ebb93ef01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Dr. Patricia Webb, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a broad background in holistic mental health care. My private practice is a client-centered, safe space where you can find in-depth, whole-person care offered with respect for you and compassion for your experiences. I partner with you and draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches, which we tailor to match your unique priorities and concerns. Together, we'll identify your goals and construct a path toward the life you seek.
Hello, I'm Dr. Patricia Webb, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a broad background in holistic mental health care. My private practice is a client-centered, safe space where you can find in-depth, whole-person care offered with respect for you and compassion for your experiences. I partner with you and draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches, which we tailor to match your unique priorities and concerns. Together, we'll identify your goals and construct a path toward the life you seek.
![Photo of David Petersen - Pine Run Mental Health and Wellness LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14873854-3206-4fcc-90ed-b84b8d2f944c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pine Run Mental Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Williamsport, PA 17701
I am a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have been an advanced practice NP since 2015. I obtained my undergraduate degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA. I obtained my graduate degree from Bloomsburg University in Bloomsburg, PA and finished a post master’s for psychiatric mental health at Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, PA. My goal has always been to help the underserved and assist complex patients in regaining independence with physical and mental health. I welcome the challenge of treating multiple medical and psychiatric issues with open arms.
I am a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have been an advanced practice NP since 2015. I obtained my undergraduate degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA. I obtained my graduate degree from Bloomsburg University in Bloomsburg, PA and finished a post master’s for psychiatric mental health at Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, PA. My goal has always been to help the underserved and assist complex patients in regaining independence with physical and mental health. I welcome the challenge of treating multiple medical and psychiatric issues with open arms.
See more therapy options for Altoona
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Altoona, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Altoona, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Medicare |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Altoona, PA see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Altoona?
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.