Psychiatrists in Bryn Mawr, PA
![Photo of Steven S Rolfe, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc5030b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience treating adolescents,young adults, and adults. My practice is divided between intensive psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, and leadership consulting for executives and family enterprises. Approximately half of my professional time is spent in my consulting practice, advising CEOs, boards, and executive teams on psychological aspects of managing and leading their organizations. I work with companies and family businesses to address a leader's personal crises that is affecting their company.
I am trained as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience treating adolescents,young adults, and adults. My practice is divided between intensive psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, and leadership consulting for executives and family enterprises. Approximately half of my professional time is spent in my consulting practice, advising CEOs, boards, and executive teams on psychological aspects of managing and leading their organizations. I work with companies and family businesses to address a leader's personal crises that is affecting their company.
![Photo of Dr. Mo Dattu - Mo Dattu, MD Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08bfade9-4ce4-4e43-acea-df637045efbf/2/320x400.jpeg)
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
![Photo of William (Bill) Sonis, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32dcb567-e8f1-48a1-95cf-f8a4db2a0a94/2/320x400.jpeg)
Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD and several different learning disabilities made me a sensitive, empathic, and understanding child and adolescent psychiatrist. In grade school, I couldn’t sit still or be quiet; in college and medical school, I needed extra time to complete my assignments. I needed more time in residency than my colleagues to write my notes. Treating ADHD involves more than just medication; it’s a lifetime process about what you need to do differently than others to achieve your goals. I’ve lived that life. My “insider” knowledge facilitates rapport, a core indicator of successful treatment.
Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD and several different learning disabilities made me a sensitive, empathic, and understanding child and adolescent psychiatrist. In grade school, I couldn’t sit still or be quiet; in college and medical school, I needed extra time to complete my assignments. I needed more time in residency than my colleagues to write my notes. Treating ADHD involves more than just medication; it’s a lifetime process about what you need to do differently than others to achieve your goals. I’ve lived that life. My “insider” knowledge facilitates rapport, a core indicator of successful treatment.
![Photo of Christine Mulligan, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f456352-b3cd-46ef-a307-2613047179a4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Mulligan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Suffering with mental health issues or conditions is a challenge that no one should face alone, nor without support and treatment. There are many pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options available to provide relief. I am a Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience helping individuals recover to remission. I assisted in developing the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at UPenn and received awards for faculty of the year (2016) and preceptor of the year (2018). Let's work together to determine the best course of treatment for you.
Suffering with mental health issues or conditions is a challenge that no one should face alone, nor without support and treatment. There are many pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options available to provide relief. I am a Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of experience helping individuals recover to remission. I assisted in developing the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Program at UPenn and received awards for faculty of the year (2016) and preceptor of the year (2018). Let's work together to determine the best course of treatment for you.
![Photo of Claudia Baldassano - Main Line Institute, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e51e6bd6-ec3c-4c47-9d01-477ebd008826/2/320x400.png)
Our team of Harvard-trained psychiatrists bring over 25 years of experience specializing in evidence-based psychiatry. We provide personalized and compassionate care through innovative treatments, including medication management and meticulously selected psychotherapy. Academically affiliated, we stay current with up to date and innovative treatments and continue to present at academic meetings. We believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our approach is that it is important to spend time making a diagnosis before recommending treatment.
Our team of Harvard-trained psychiatrists bring over 25 years of experience specializing in evidence-based psychiatry. We provide personalized and compassionate care through innovative treatments, including medication management and meticulously selected psychotherapy. Academically affiliated, we stay current with up to date and innovative treatments and continue to present at academic meetings. We believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our approach is that it is important to spend time making a diagnosis before recommending treatment.
![Photo of Kathryn Zagrabbe, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/928b1615-c8d0-430c-aedc-da69b34dffdb/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Juno Mental Health, we offer personalized and compassionate psychiatric care for each of our patients. Searching for any kind of mental health care can be difficult. Finding warm, individualized mental health care is even more challenging. And doing so while you balance the other demands of everyday life can make finding help feel simply impossible. At Juno Mental Health, we believe each patient has their own story. We want to learn your story and support you in achieving emotional well-being.
At Juno Mental Health, we offer personalized and compassionate psychiatric care for each of our patients. Searching for any kind of mental health care can be difficult. Finding warm, individualized mental health care is even more challenging. And doing so while you balance the other demands of everyday life can make finding help feel simply impossible. At Juno Mental Health, we believe each patient has their own story. We want to learn your story and support you in achieving emotional well-being.
![Photo of Roger Louis Cambor - Bryn Mawr Psychiatry, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cb6f6db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a highly experienced board-certified psychiatrist with added qualifications in addiction psychiatry. I spend a good deal of time and energy to establish an accurate diagnosis, then create a treatment plan tailored to the individual. I am interested in learning about a person’s strengths and resources as well as his or her challenges and conflicts. Because of my training and experience I am able to be helpful to adults of different ages who come to me with a wide range of mental health concerns.
I am a highly experienced board-certified psychiatrist with added qualifications in addiction psychiatry. I spend a good deal of time and energy to establish an accurate diagnosis, then create a treatment plan tailored to the individual. I am interested in learning about a person’s strengths and resources as well as his or her challenges and conflicts. Because of my training and experience I am able to be helpful to adults of different ages who come to me with a wide range of mental health concerns.
![Photo of Taylor Bell, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99a30b6d-75ce-43d0-80e6-dbe8dd974c68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Bell is a board certified physician assistant who completed her medical training at Duke University Physician Assistant Program. She received her undergrad degree from Penn State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biobehavioral Health and a minor in Human Development Family Studies. Prior to arriving to Dr. MacIntyre’s practice, Taylor worked in a psychiatry practice in North Carolina, treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, psychosis, personality disorders, and more. She is excited to continue treating patients in the Philadelphia area.
Taylor Bell is a board certified physician assistant who completed her medical training at Duke University Physician Assistant Program. She received her undergrad degree from Penn State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biobehavioral Health and a minor in Human Development Family Studies. Prior to arriving to Dr. MacIntyre’s practice, Taylor worked in a psychiatry practice in North Carolina, treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, psychosis, personality disorders, and more. She is excited to continue treating patients in the Philadelphia area.
![Photo of Raena Khorram, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/422e0747-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified, Harvard trained psychiatrist with a private practice in the Mainline seeing patients both in the office and online using a leading telepsychiatry platform. I work with patients to identify, understand, and solve problems. Together we transform that understanding into positive action. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and in a safe and confidential environment. It is a collaboration between the patient and the physician that allows for the greatest results. Together we will determine the best treatment for you whether that is therapy or medication or a combination of both.
I am a board certified, Harvard trained psychiatrist with a private practice in the Mainline seeing patients both in the office and online using a leading telepsychiatry platform. I work with patients to identify, understand, and solve problems. Together we transform that understanding into positive action. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and in a safe and confidential environment. It is a collaboration between the patient and the physician that allows for the greatest results. Together we will determine the best treatment for you whether that is therapy or medication or a combination of both.
![Photo of Carrie Malanga, RN, MEd, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50048c02-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie Malanga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MEd, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, working with individuals ranging from young adults through the lifespan. My clinical approach to Psychopharmacology is solution focused and evidence based. I allow for 30-minute follow up sessions, in order to best meet the needs of my clients and offer a personalized and integrated approach to Psychiatry. I incorporate the strengths of western medicine as well as eastern philosophies, including contemplative psychology. In order to provide the highest level of patient care, our work together will extend beyond medication, allowing for holistic and co-created treatment planning.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, working with individuals ranging from young adults through the lifespan. My clinical approach to Psychopharmacology is solution focused and evidence based. I allow for 30-minute follow up sessions, in order to best meet the needs of my clients and offer a personalized and integrated approach to Psychiatry. I incorporate the strengths of western medicine as well as eastern philosophies, including contemplative psychology. In order to provide the highest level of patient care, our work together will extend beyond medication, allowing for holistic and co-created treatment planning.
![Photo of Charles Chip Altman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3376153-3ecd-49e9-8d0a-bcbbee52c69e/1/320x400.png)
Casual, relaxed setting to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, unstable mood (bipolar), insomnia, and issues with focus/concentration. I specialize in working with older adolescents, college/graduate students, and young adults launching careers and building relationships. Of course I work with adults of all ages.
Casual, relaxed setting to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, unstable mood (bipolar), insomnia, and issues with focus/concentration. I specialize in working with older adolescents, college/graduate students, and young adults launching careers and building relationships. Of course I work with adults of all ages.
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![Photo of Amy MacIntyre, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bb4bf1e-482d-43dc-b825-1686f1cf3bd7/1/320x400.png)
Dr Amy MacIntyre is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist. She is a graduate of Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency at Brown University's Butler Hospital and went on to a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. Her training focused on medication treatment of psychiatric disorders across all ages, and therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. The services Dr MacIntyre provides include evaluations, second opinions, med management and therapy.
Dr Amy MacIntyre is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist. She is a graduate of Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency at Brown University's Butler Hospital and went on to a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. Her training focused on medication treatment of psychiatric disorders across all ages, and therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. The services Dr MacIntyre provides include evaluations, second opinions, med management and therapy.
![Photo of Sonia Alam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/575a393c-cb93-43a2-8861-4b537aa71471/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with each client to come up with the best treatment plan for you. I like to be flexible in my approach. I focus on med management and I highly encourage therapy as a co treatment. I often recommend optimizing sleep whether that involves a sleep study, medication or therapeutic techniques. I encourage patients to help me communicate with their therapists. I value exercise and nutrition and like to help patients make goals towards optimal health.
I work with each client to come up with the best treatment plan for you. I like to be flexible in my approach. I focus on med management and I highly encourage therapy as a co treatment. I often recommend optimizing sleep whether that involves a sleep study, medication or therapeutic techniques. I encourage patients to help me communicate with their therapists. I value exercise and nutrition and like to help patients make goals towards optimal health.
![Photo of Paul Joseph Resignato, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/000e3e8f-8a79-46a7-b20e-f8adb9103425/2/320x400.jpeg)
I view individuals as a “whole” with the understanding that our biology, social context, spirituality and community make us who we are. I frequently integrate these issues along with nutrition, exercise and lifestyle to support mental health. Underlying all my work with individuals and families is a foundation of open communication and a therapeutic relationship.
I view individuals as a “whole” with the understanding that our biology, social context, spirituality and community make us who we are. I frequently integrate these issues along with nutrition, exercise and lifestyle to support mental health. Underlying all my work with individuals and families is a foundation of open communication and a therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Dr. Chris Burritt, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6894a1af-c7d0-45f4-a643-4ed96cd6c48b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Burritt is Board Certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has experience working with all ages from young children to older adults from various backgrounds. His training enabled him to see a wide range of patient situations at hospitals including Einstein, Jefferson, and Nemours DuPont. He enjoys working with individuals as well as couples and families. In addition to treating specific symptoms such as depression or anxiety, patients and he have worked together to address other challenges such as improving relationships or identifying what is blocking them from getting more out of life.
Dr. Burritt is Board Certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has experience working with all ages from young children to older adults from various backgrounds. His training enabled him to see a wide range of patient situations at hospitals including Einstein, Jefferson, and Nemours DuPont. He enjoys working with individuals as well as couples and families. In addition to treating specific symptoms such as depression or anxiety, patients and he have worked together to address other challenges such as improving relationships or identifying what is blocking them from getting more out of life.
![Photo of Jack Castro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe010b59-2f6d-43c8-ab09-4cdeb6c39edf/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist who works with patients who are struggling with mental health problems. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations as well as evidenced and empirically-based medication management. I consider my approach to be psychopharmacologically conservative and minimalist. What this means is that I aim to minimize the use of medication, and recommend that my patients have a psychotherapist as well. I have a network of excellent therapists that include social workers, counselors, coaches and psychologists with whom I work closely.
I am a psychiatrist who works with patients who are struggling with mental health problems. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations as well as evidenced and empirically-based medication management. I consider my approach to be psychopharmacologically conservative and minimalist. What this means is that I aim to minimize the use of medication, and recommend that my patients have a psychotherapist as well. I have a network of excellent therapists that include social workers, counselors, coaches and psychologists with whom I work closely.
![Photo of Richard P Kluft, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb5ef87-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced and well-trained therapist able to use many treatment modalities. If you are highly motivated, you are my ideal patient.
I am an experienced and well-trained therapist able to use many treatment modalities. If you are highly motivated, you are my ideal patient.
![Photo of Aviva Zohar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93e6ee76-051b-4e9d-bb47-212f2f99faee/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ready for change? At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
Ready for change? At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
![Photo of Meghan N. Starner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c3cc8c7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double ABPN board certified psychiatrist in private practice specializing in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. I offer individualized, compassionate, comprehensive psychiatric treatment using a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. I treat patients across the life span, from early elementary school age to older adults. In addition to providing ongoing care for patients and their families, I am also available for consultation and second opinion evaluations. Telehealth appointments are available.
I am a double ABPN board certified psychiatrist in private practice specializing in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. I offer individualized, compassionate, comprehensive psychiatric treatment using a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. I treat patients across the life span, from early elementary school age to older adults. In addition to providing ongoing care for patients and their families, I am also available for consultation and second opinion evaluations. Telehealth appointments are available.
![Photo of Katelin Crane, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff4a38f-07aa-4a77-ae31-4834a0a21da8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katelin Crane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
See more therapy options for Bryn Mawr
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bryn Mawr, PA
30+
Average cost per session
$350
Psychiatrists in Bryn Mawr, PA who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | ADHD |
79% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
79% | Medication Management |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Bryn Mawr, PA see their clients
94% | In Person and Online | |
6% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
54% | Female | |
46% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bryn Mawr?
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.