Psychiatrists in Lafayette Hill, PA
![Photo of Anna Esser, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2ff50fd-7464-499c-abe9-181f8f9cfbab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Esser is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania. Anna received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing, in 2017 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Temple University, School of Nursing, in 2011. She is board-certified as a Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and engages in continuing education through organizations such as APNA, ANA, and NEI. Anna has been a nurse since 2011 and has been practicing as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner since 2018.
Anna Esser is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania. Anna received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing, in 2017 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Temple University, School of Nursing, in 2011. She is board-certified as a Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and engages in continuing education through organizations such as APNA, ANA, and NEI. Anna has been a nurse since 2011 and has been practicing as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner since 2018.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Vincent Di Antonio, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afa6a6fa-7594-403f-a0aa-5a440e7ce896/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vince Di Antonio, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board Certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Alpine Psychiatry in King of Prussia (KOP), Pennsylvania. Vince is a firm believer in the mind-body connection and is passionate about providing patient-centered, whole-person, and comprehensive mental health care to all patients 12 years and up at Alpine Psychiatry. He offers both in-person and telemedicine appointments. Vince treats all psychiatric disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
Vince Di Antonio, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board Certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Alpine Psychiatry in King of Prussia (KOP), Pennsylvania. Vince is a firm believer in the mind-body connection and is passionate about providing patient-centered, whole-person, and comprehensive mental health care to all patients 12 years and up at Alpine Psychiatry. He offers both in-person and telemedicine appointments. Vince treats all psychiatric disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Michael Pertschuk, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e2678bf-5d20-4039-8257-787a17be88de/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked in outpatient, residential and inpatient settings treating eating disorders, mood disorders and ADHD. My research interests include body image issues and medical complications of mental health problems, especially eating disorders. I am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Drexel University, Philadelphia. My medical degree is from the University of Pennsylvania and I have a Masters Degree in psychology also from Penn. I am married with grown children and live with my wife and several cats.
I have worked in outpatient, residential and inpatient settings treating eating disorders, mood disorders and ADHD. My research interests include body image issues and medical complications of mental health problems, especially eating disorders. I am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Drexel University, Philadelphia. My medical degree is from the University of Pennsylvania and I have a Masters Degree in psychology also from Penn. I am married with grown children and live with my wife and several cats.
![Photo of Denise Miller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcf5b536-45b8-4ce3-8d1f-98ea3802f88f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Miller, PMHNP Denise Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2021. Denise offers patient centered care, providing supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and medication management. Outside of work, Denise volunteers at nursing homes and other public events with her therapy dog, fosters puppies for several rescues, and enjoys outdoor activities with family such as hiking and camping.
Denise Miller, PMHNP Denise Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2021. Denise offers patient centered care, providing supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and medication management. Outside of work, Denise volunteers at nursing homes and other public events with her therapy dog, fosters puppies for several rescues, and enjoys outdoor activities with family such as hiking and camping.
![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 O'Nisha Lawrence, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfed96f0-8ef0-47af-8131-786a22dd17ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. O'Nisha Lawrence is a Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2014. She earned her medical degree at the University of Connecticut and completed her psychiatric residency and fellowship training at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Dr. Lawrence specializes in the evaluation and treatment of depression, anxiety, and ADHD. She utilizes a combination of psychotherapy and medication management.
Dr. O'Nisha Lawrence is a Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2014. She earned her medical degree at the University of Connecticut and completed her psychiatric residency and fellowship training at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Dr. Lawrence specializes in the evaluation and treatment of depression, anxiety, and ADHD. She utilizes a combination of psychotherapy and medication management.
![Photo of Evan J Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3c13e65-9e53-4890-9316-453ab5b06aa9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life is often difficult. Sometimes these difficulties can be seen, understood and worked on towards a constructive and rewarding conclusion. Sometimes they are obscure, complicated, and entangled leaving a person to feel lost, abandoned, overwhelmed, helpless and powerless. Relationships, work challenges, personal self understanding, inner thoughts, feelings, goals, dreams and fears are all situations where these difficulties can play out. Talk therapy works as the therapist and the patient engage in active listening which is often difficult to do in non-professional social situations.
Life is often difficult. Sometimes these difficulties can be seen, understood and worked on towards a constructive and rewarding conclusion. Sometimes they are obscure, complicated, and entangled leaving a person to feel lost, abandoned, overwhelmed, helpless and powerless. Relationships, work challenges, personal self understanding, inner thoughts, feelings, goals, dreams and fears are all situations where these difficulties can play out. Talk therapy works as the therapist and the patient engage in active listening which is often difficult to do in non-professional social situations.
![Photo of David M. Lee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4059d64b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel worried, stressed, or stuck by a particular issue or in general? Have you noticed a pattern of experiences in life that you'd like help with? Does it affect your work or relationships? Have you had other treatments that have left you feeling that some underlying issue has not been fully addressed? Empathic and kind listening & exploration, alongside personal experience & growth may be necessary. My patients tend to be intelligent & sensitive, but come in struggling or unhappy in their lives. They have become aware of the same issues presenting over & over again.
Do you feel worried, stressed, or stuck by a particular issue or in general? Have you noticed a pattern of experiences in life that you'd like help with? Does it affect your work or relationships? Have you had other treatments that have left you feeling that some underlying issue has not been fully addressed? Empathic and kind listening & exploration, alongside personal experience & growth may be necessary. My patients tend to be intelligent & sensitive, but come in struggling or unhappy in their lives. They have become aware of the same issues presenting over & over again.
![Photo of Teresa Ann Blatt - Pottsville Peace of Mind, LLC , MSN, MBA, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4addc0d8-11d1-437f-82e2-c035cd10ff32/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pottsville Peace of Mind, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MBA, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035 (Online Only)
Teresa Blatt is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to the management of psychiatric patient care addressing the needs of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. We take a holistic approach and consider the needs of each individual patient. Email the office at pottsvillepeaceofmind.com to make an appointment today.
Teresa Blatt is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to the management of psychiatric patient care addressing the needs of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. We take a holistic approach and consider the needs of each individual patient. Email the office at pottsvillepeaceofmind.com to make an appointment today.
![Photo of Nadine Nelson, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/395add1c-686c-49fe-bcc0-cdbe3916868e/1/320x400.png)
Nadine Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladwyne, PA 19035 (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Nadine. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner whose mission is to help you live a balanced life. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey to get to the goals that you have for your own life. I enjoy educating patients, their families, clinicians, and other prescribers on psychopharmacology, lifestyle modifications, nutritional support and pharmacogenomics. I value conservative but effective, medication management paired with thorough evaluation and rapport-building with my clients.
Hi there, my name is Nadine. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner whose mission is to help you live a balanced life. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey to get to the goals that you have for your own life. I enjoy educating patients, their families, clinicians, and other prescribers on psychopharmacology, lifestyle modifications, nutritional support and pharmacogenomics. I value conservative but effective, medication management paired with thorough evaluation and rapport-building with my clients.
![Photo of Rachel Dillinger, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21b919eb-51ee-4e3c-89c8-217096d94e11/1/320x400.png)
Rachel completed medical school at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University and psychiatric residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program, where she served as a chief resident for inpatient psychiatry, the Sheppard Pratt hospital, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She works with patients to understand their mental health goals and determine the best strategy to meet them, including therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.
Rachel completed medical school at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University and psychiatric residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program, where she served as a chief resident for inpatient psychiatry, the Sheppard Pratt hospital, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She works with patients to understand their mental health goals and determine the best strategy to meet them, including therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.
![Photo of Katrina Denise Scannelli, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35432f5d-820d-4656-b34f-0d787d058467/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katrina Denise Scannelli
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladwyne, PA 19035 (Online Only)
If you are seeking expert medication management, you have come to the right place. We put you first, while we focus on quality care and convenience. As a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry, I am not only knowledgeable, I also have a deep personal connection to the challenges of mental health. Growing up with close family and friends who battled depression and anxiety, I witnessed firsthand the impact these conditions can have on you and your loved ones. This experience has ignited my passion for psychiatry and set me on a path to help anyone interested in making a better life for themselves.
If you are seeking expert medication management, you have come to the right place. We put you first, while we focus on quality care and convenience. As a Certified Physician Assistant in Psychiatry, I am not only knowledgeable, I also have a deep personal connection to the challenges of mental health. Growing up with close family and friends who battled depression and anxiety, I witnessed firsthand the impact these conditions can have on you and your loved ones. This experience has ignited my passion for psychiatry and set me on a path to help anyone interested in making a better life for themselves.
![Photo of Suzanne Palekar, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6744b62d-7bad-44fe-a7b2-cced49c82516/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Palekar became a psychiatrist because she loves hearing people's stories, motivations, and fears. She loves problem-solving to craft the most individualized and evidence-based treatment plan. She loves developing relationships with patients over time and truly getting to know them. Reaching out for help during a time of vulnerability is one of the hardest things you can do. Dr. Palekar is honored to be considered as someone who can help during these dark times. She has a history of working with all types of psychiatric illness, from minor anxiety to the most treatment resistant cases.
Dr. Palekar became a psychiatrist because she loves hearing people's stories, motivations, and fears. She loves problem-solving to craft the most individualized and evidence-based treatment plan. She loves developing relationships with patients over time and truly getting to know them. Reaching out for help during a time of vulnerability is one of the hardest things you can do. Dr. Palekar is honored to be considered as someone who can help during these dark times. She has a history of working with all types of psychiatric illness, from minor anxiety to the most treatment resistant cases.
![Photo of Eileen Peirce - PS Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d774f8c5-46e0-44d4-a1e8-f24b26077412/2/320x400.png)
PS Psychiatry works with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults to evaluate, diagnose and ultimately find the most effective medication with the goal of symptom management. We have three psychiatric providers offering weekday, week nights and weekend availability. Our providers are compassionate, caring and easily accessible. Collaborating with client's therapists and doctors is a key part of our process. We gather all pertinent information to ensure our client's are getting the right medication.
PS Psychiatry works with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults to evaluate, diagnose and ultimately find the most effective medication with the goal of symptom management. We have three psychiatric providers offering weekday, week nights and weekend availability. Our providers are compassionate, caring and easily accessible. Collaborating with client's therapists and doctors is a key part of our process. We gather all pertinent information to ensure our client's are getting the right medication.
![Photo of Dr. Suparna Basu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d389f4f-0988-4f5e-86cd-d627a241be67/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems and emotional issues . Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems and emotional issues . Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com
![Photo of Daniel Bigman, MD, MHS, PA-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4706e545-627e-49ac-aa85-c071b199ba29/1/320x400.jpeg)
After medical school, internship, and residency training in Psychiatry, completed additional fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. Practice focus on neurodevelopment, neuropsychiatry, complex sleep, and consultation for diagnostic clarification.
After medical school, internship, and residency training in Psychiatry, completed additional fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. Practice focus on neurodevelopment, neuropsychiatry, complex sleep, and consultation for diagnostic clarification.
![Photo of Chen Zhou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ae0370c-90b1-409a-a680-2fb207efa19c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to a dedicated space focused on fostering your personal well-being. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to providing support to young adults, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, as well as individuals of all ages, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. My practice encompasses a comprehensive approach to mental health, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD through a tailored blend of pharmacological intervention and psychotherapy. Our sessions are designed to offer a confidential and compassionate environment, facilitating self-exploration and personal g
Welcome to a dedicated space focused on fostering your personal well-being. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to providing support to young adults, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, as well as individuals of all ages, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. My practice encompasses a comprehensive approach to mental health, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD through a tailored blend of pharmacological intervention and psychotherapy. Our sessions are designed to offer a confidential and compassionate environment, facilitating self-exploration and personal g
![Photo of Nicole Wilson-Carr, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3366875-0678-42ca-9971-fa95170e7fbc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole is a dual certified as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor's degree from Binghamton University and her master's degree from Maryville University. Nicole offers medication management and basic psychotherapy. She provides patient centered care combined with evidence based and collaborative pharmacological treatment. Her areas of special interest include Depression, Anxiety disorders, Sleep Disorders and Life transitions. She believes in shared decision making when it comes to patient care and makes sure each clients feel comfortable and listened to at each office visit.
Nicole is a dual certified as a family nurse practitioner and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor's degree from Binghamton University and her master's degree from Maryville University. Nicole offers medication management and basic psychotherapy. She provides patient centered care combined with evidence based and collaborative pharmacological treatment. Her areas of special interest include Depression, Anxiety disorders, Sleep Disorders and Life transitions. She believes in shared decision making when it comes to patient care and makes sure each clients feel comfortable and listened to at each office visit.
![Photo of Rachel Reis, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d23697-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
![Photo of Antony Krumbhaar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d8e6c12-fc58-4d09-a530-c32dcf757723/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tony Krumbhaar is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2016. He earned a BA in Psychology, a BSN in Nursing, and an MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health from the University of Pennsylvania. Tony believes that we all have a unique background that contributes to our well-being through our family history, upbringing, and the experiences that we have in life.
Tony Krumbhaar is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2016. He earned a BA in Psychology, a BSN in Nursing, and an MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health from the University of Pennsylvania. Tony believes that we all have a unique background that contributes to our well-being through our family history, upbringing, and the experiences that we have in life.
See more therapy options for Lafayette Hill
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lafayette Hill, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lafayette Hill, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Grief |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | ComPsych |
How Psychiatrists in Lafayette Hill, PA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lafayette Hill?
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.