Psychiatrists in Dauphin County, PA
![Photo of Wanda Rodriguez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe6e919c-bed9-4d9a-8df5-c4766bd6d33e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I am a nurse practitioner who has worked in mental health for over 15 years and currently practices in Central Pennsylvania. My career began with crisis intervention and managing acute mental health emergencies. Expanding my scope, I later moved into case management, gaining a deep understanding of mental health conditions, the impact of the environment, and the importance of individualized care.
Hello there! I am a nurse practitioner who has worked in mental health for over 15 years and currently practices in Central Pennsylvania. My career began with crisis intervention and managing acute mental health emergencies. Expanding my scope, I later moved into case management, gaining a deep understanding of mental health conditions, the impact of the environment, and the importance of individualized care.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27effffe-4385-4966-a8ce-b7224d96bd08/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Chris Bedford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9ef4d49-a384-49ae-8c30-d329b045fbe0/1/320x400.png)
Chris Bedford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Chris and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Chris has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations treating a variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and other health conditions. He believes in the importance of a strong client/clinician partnership which allows the client maximum autonomy in decision-making. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Chris and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Chris has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations treating a variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and other health conditions. He believes in the importance of a strong client/clinician partnership which allows the client maximum autonomy in decision-making. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
![Photo of Theresa Adigwu - Eagle Behavioral Health Services, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa3e1947-6a42-40f3-bdcf-6da43af266ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eagle Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
EVALUATION & FOLLOW-UP IS AVAILABLE VIA TELEHEALTH.....Eagle Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
EVALUATION & FOLLOW-UP IS AVAILABLE VIA TELEHEALTH.....Eagle Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
![Photo of Angela Marie Jacobs, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8526d683-7fd0-4636-9fda-3c298806c36c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am glad you are here. My name is Dr. Angela Jacobs, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Medical School in 2008 and completed my formal psychiatric training in 2012. I have spent my career caring for patients in the inpatient and outpatient settings. I also have experience in the state hospitals and prison system. Controlled substances are available from my practice on a very limited basis and never on the first session. All paperwork such as FMLA and related will only be considered after several months of treatment.
Hello, I am glad you are here. My name is Dr. Angela Jacobs, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Medical School in 2008 and completed my formal psychiatric training in 2012. I have spent my career caring for patients in the inpatient and outpatient settings. I also have experience in the state hospitals and prison system. Controlled substances are available from my practice on a very limited basis and never on the first session. All paperwork such as FMLA and related will only be considered after several months of treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b310eb8-8a6e-4e41-bf65-dd844e06133a/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis, DNP, PMHNP-B, PPCNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d92e0317-d9aa-4f28-a744-1310e17ab254/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, PPCNP-B
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, PMHS received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her post doctorate certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania, her Master of Science degree in Nursing Administration and Research from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and her post-master's certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from West Virginia University. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Waynesburg University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Indiana University.
Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, PMHS received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her post doctorate certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania, her Master of Science degree in Nursing Administration and Research from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and her post-master's certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from West Virginia University. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Waynesburg University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Indiana University.
![Photo of Michael Tolleson, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438f4301-e15a-4d3a-a3ee-1156c5428e0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Tolleson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2020. He studied at James Madison University, Penn State University, Harrisburg Area Community College, and Walden University. As a medical practitioner, Michael firmly upholds the principles of punctuality, expertise, and preparation, recognizing that these qualities are integral to the patient experience that he, too, anticipates when seeking medical care.
Michael Tolleson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2020. He studied at James Madison University, Penn State University, Harrisburg Area Community College, and Walden University. As a medical practitioner, Michael firmly upholds the principles of punctuality, expertise, and preparation, recognizing that these qualities are integral to the patient experience that he, too, anticipates when seeking medical care.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60d993bd-33cc-427d-b270-c5d705c6d9fa/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Fitz Martin, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b397a238-b422-4845-9767-359dcd2b2ced/1/320x400.jpeg)
tion Hello, feeling sad, anxious, or having difficulty concentrating and focusing? I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner focused on delivering Client-Centered, Caring, Compassionate, and Dedicated Care. I can help you through this trying time if the symptoms impact your daily living. Sometimes we fall into a rut and can not pull ourselves out. I treat individuals ages 14 to 70.
tion Hello, feeling sad, anxious, or having difficulty concentrating and focusing? I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner focused on delivering Client-Centered, Caring, Compassionate, and Dedicated Care. I can help you through this trying time if the symptoms impact your daily living. Sometimes we fall into a rut and can not pull ourselves out. I treat individuals ages 14 to 70.
![Photo of Grace Muthami - Bright Mind Wellness , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/491a508d-3698-4548-b439-73b1f6f345a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bright Mind Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17111 (Online Only)
Grace Muthami is a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing holistic mental health care. She has extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and treating psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She is committed to promoting mental wellness, reducing stigma. Grace values collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and believes in personalized, evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Outside of her clinical practice, she is actively involved in mental health advocacy, education, and research initiatives aimed at advancing the field of psychiatric nursing.
Grace Muthami is a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing holistic mental health care. She has extensive experience in assessing, diagnosing, and treating psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She is committed to promoting mental wellness, reducing stigma. Grace values collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and believes in personalized, evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs. Outside of her clinical practice, she is actively involved in mental health advocacy, education, and research initiatives aimed at advancing the field of psychiatric nursing.
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![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0109bdd-93db-402b-95dd-bbe317fe89ed/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 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 Abigail Frimpong, PMHNP, ASDCS, C-DBT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c5c7561-9bff-44b1-b268-a4f20cccdb93/4/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Frimpong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ASDCS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Abigail Frimpong is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Abigail is the CEO and the Founder of Mental Peace Psychiatry. Abigail has extensive experience working with vulnerable populations suffering from serious physical ailments with comorbid psychiatric, mental, behavioral, and substance use disorders in the emergency, inpatient and outpatient settings.
Abigail Frimpong is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Abigail is the CEO and the Founder of Mental Peace Psychiatry. Abigail has extensive experience working with vulnerable populations suffering from serious physical ailments with comorbid psychiatric, mental, behavioral, and substance use disorders in the emergency, inpatient and outpatient settings.
![Photo of Erin Colleran, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20b56081-2a60-4af5-8c6d-ca738b90ac11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin A. Colleran is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Johns Hopkins University, and a Bachelor's of Science from the University of Illinois. Erin's treatment philosophy is to treat every patient as an individual and respect that individual's decisions. She works with her patients to make a collaborative plan that feels comfortable and supportive.
Erin A. Colleran is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Johns Hopkins University, and a Bachelor's of Science from the University of Illinois. Erin's treatment philosophy is to treat every patient as an individual and respect that individual's decisions. She works with her patients to make a collaborative plan that feels comfortable and supportive.
We believe Psychiatric illness has various complex components. Our social values, life experiences and genome play an important role in it. A life is beautiful, challenging and very individual process. Finding the right diagnosis and treatment can be a process but in most cases it is very possible. As a human being, we meant to learn, grow and find our path with each individual experience . We can be available and helpful in your life journey.
We believe Psychiatric illness has various complex components. Our social values, life experiences and genome play an important role in it. A life is beautiful, challenging and very individual process. Finding the right diagnosis and treatment can be a process but in most cases it is very possible. As a human being, we meant to learn, grow and find our path with each individual experience . We can be available and helpful in your life journey.
![Photo of Alexandra (Sopher) Ruane, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37126408-363a-4943-a235-19f5aabb83fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra (Sopher) Ruane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17111 (Online Only)
As a mental health consumer myself, I understand what it feels like to have mental health affect your life. You may have tried therapy or medication, which may have helped a little or not at all. I believe that you and I are a team in deciding the best treatment for you and that by explaining the options available, you can make an informed decision on how you want to proceed. I believe that listening to your treatment goals gives us the best chance of success in helping you. Please be advised that Brightside Health does not allow prescribing of controlled substances.
As a mental health consumer myself, I understand what it feels like to have mental health affect your life. You may have tried therapy or medication, which may have helped a little or not at all. I believe that you and I are a team in deciding the best treatment for you and that by explaining the options available, you can make an informed decision on how you want to proceed. I believe that listening to your treatment goals gives us the best chance of success in helping you. Please be advised that Brightside Health does not allow prescribing of controlled substances.
![Photo of Alexandra Sopher - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/334fe65c-7223-47ec-9797-b32642e0961b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17111 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/731ed758-bcff-4f21-8966-ba05951d34e5/1/320x400.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 Dr. Axeline Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a2e6854-33da-4fb5-a834-2bb1251f3d26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognizant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognizant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
See more therapy options for Dauphin County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dauphin County, PA
30+
Average cost per session
$197
Psychiatrists in Dauphin County, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
90% | Medication Management |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | Aetna |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Dauphin County, PA see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dauphin County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.