Psychiatrists in Lancaster, PA

Photo of Wanda Hedian - Hedian Healing Minds LLC, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hedian Healing Minds LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery and healing that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery and healing that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
(717) 452-4583 View (717) 452-4583
Photo of Roxanne C. Swistock, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roxanne C. Swistock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
Hello, I’m Roxy. I have been an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years and I reside in Central PA. I have a passion for authenticity and connecting with my patients on a personal level. Throughout my practice experiences, I have found the best outcomes for patients are provided when we, the providers, understand the patient's needs and desires as they relate to reaching our treatment goals. By helping patients reach their healthcare goals, physically, mentally, emotionally, and aesthetically, I hope to add an extra touch of caring and compassion to your healthcare experience.
(717) 942-9352 View (717) 942-9352
Photo of Samantha O'Donnell, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha O'Donnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
My name is Samantha O'Donnell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 7 years of experience treating teens (12+) and adults. Unlike traditional approaches, I focus on the root cause of your struggles. I find and treat the "why" behind your symptoms to help you achieve lasting mental well-being and lead a happier, healthier life. Mental health is unique to each person, and I believe treatments should be tailored to each person as well! Together, we will work to understand your symptoms by exploring biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.
My name is Samantha O'Donnell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 7 years of experience treating teens (12+) and adults. Unlike traditional approaches, I focus on the root cause of your struggles. I find and treat the "why" behind your symptoms to help you achieve lasting mental well-being and lead a happier, healthier life. Mental health is unique to each person, and I believe treatments should be tailored to each person as well! Together, we will work to understand your symptoms by exploring biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.
(717) 837-9952 View (717) 837-9952
Photo of Evelyn Mensah - EM&E Health, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
EM&E Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
1 in 5 adults suffers from a mental health condition or substance use disorder. 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. Unfortunately, stigma leads to so many individuals not receiving the care they need. Hi, I am Evelyn Mensah and I am here to partner with you to provide you with the needed psychiatric /behavioral health care. Evelyn uses a holistic and person-centered approach to care.
1 in 5 adults suffers from a mental health condition or substance use disorder. 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. Unfortunately, stigma leads to so many individuals not receiving the care they need. Hi, I am Evelyn Mensah and I am here to partner with you to provide you with the needed psychiatric /behavioral health care. Evelyn uses a holistic and person-centered approach to care.
(717) 923-8183 View (717) 923-8183
Photo of Lilian Ogujiofor, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilian Ogujiofor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
Dr. Ogujiofor is a certified registered nurse practitioner with dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. She is a highly motivated, team-oriented, and compassionate provider with the goal of providing evidence-based and individualized mental health care for each patient. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from West Chester University in 2016 and obtained her MSN from La Salle University in 2013 as well as Post-Master's in PMHNP in 2021 from Regis College.
Dr. Ogujiofor is a certified registered nurse practitioner with dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. She is a highly motivated, team-oriented, and compassionate provider with the goal of providing evidence-based and individualized mental health care for each patient. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from West Chester University in 2016 and obtained her MSN from La Salle University in 2013 as well as Post-Master's in PMHNP in 2021 from Regis College.
(717) 912-8510 View (717) 912-8510
Photo of Sarah N M Gatumu - Substance Abuse , Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Substance Abuse , Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
Have you been dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder for months or years? Have you been on this medication then that medication and these seem to work for a while only for the symptoms to come back? Are you looking for a comprehensive functional approach that addresses these problems at a functional level? Do you want to live life on your terms? What are the five things you should be doing today to optimize your mental health? Have you heard of the Walsh protocol and you want a provider who can help you with this? The solution is closer than you think.
Have you been dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder for months or years? Have you been on this medication then that medication and these seem to work for a while only for the symptoms to come back? Are you looking for a comprehensive functional approach that addresses these problems at a functional level? Do you want to live life on your terms? What are the five things you should be doing today to optimize your mental health? Have you heard of the Walsh protocol and you want a provider who can help you with this? The solution is closer than you think.
(223) 215-3853 View (223) 215-3853
Photo of Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
(717) 864-8554 View (717) 864-8554
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602  (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
(833) 775-0571 View (833) 775-0571
Photo of John G Wilson III - Philadelphia Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Philadelphia Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who works hard to practice psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in both a private & supportive setting. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic interventions backed by empirical evidence, I am a firm believer in the value of therapy & more holistic interventions (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I understand the importance of shoring up wellness rather than treating illness, and you can expect to spend a significant amount of time discussing the importance of sleep, fitness and nutrition, in addition to tackling deeper psychological issues.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who works hard to practice psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in both a private & supportive setting. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic interventions backed by empirical evidence, I am a firm believer in the value of therapy & more holistic interventions (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I understand the importance of shoring up wellness rather than treating illness, and you can expect to spend a significant amount of time discussing the importance of sleep, fitness and nutrition, in addition to tackling deeper psychological issues.
(484) 471-6024 View (484) 471-6024
Photo of Sheila Jourdain, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602  (Online Only)
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I develop comprehensive and thorough treatment plans. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ** I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I develop comprehensive and thorough treatment plans. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
(610) 215-2536 View (610) 215-2536
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
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.
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Photo of Dr. Axeline Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Axeline Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
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.
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Photo of Sheila Jourdain, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
Offering NEW in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Offering NEW “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
Offering NEW in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Offering NEW “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
(484) 917-0368 View (484) 917-0368

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Caroline Elizabeth Brown, MSN, PMHNPBC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caroline Elizabeth Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Landisville, PA 17538
I help those from adolescents to adults with psychotherapy and medication management. I am happy to work with you on your journey to finding a good medication plan for you- your body, your life, and your values! I specialize in providing medication management and psychotherapy for clients experiencing mood ups and downs, anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, and women's emotional wellness. I value a collaborative relationship with my clients, in which clients can feel comfortable sharing their treatment goals and preferences.
I help those from adolescents to adults with psychotherapy and medication management. I am happy to work with you on your journey to finding a good medication plan for you- your body, your life, and your values! I specialize in providing medication management and psychotherapy for clients experiencing mood ups and downs, anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, and women's emotional wellness. I value a collaborative relationship with my clients, in which clients can feel comfortable sharing their treatment goals and preferences.
(717) 987-7150 View (717) 987-7150
Photo of Renee Denobrega - Renee Family Health and Psychiatric Nurse Practiti, DNP, MD, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renee Family Health and Psychiatric Nurse Practiti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MD, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Manheim, PA 17545
Able to address most psychiatric needs- telephone consult is free, for all patient who are serious about mental health versus substance dependence, opioid maintenance program. We will work with all income levels, and insurances. initial visit $125-200, follow up $50-125. For natural alternatives (CBD oils) regimens see: www.reneepsychhealth.com
Able to address most psychiatric needs- telephone consult is free, for all patient who are serious about mental health versus substance dependence, opioid maintenance program. We will work with all income levels, and insurances. initial visit $125-200, follow up $50-125. For natural alternatives (CBD oils) regimens see: www.reneepsychhealth.com
(929) 295-7340 View (929) 295-7340

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Scott Ambrass, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Scott Ambrass
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Scott Ambrass earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The College of New Jersey and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Thomas Jefferson University. While working for the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania on their neurological and brain injury rehabilitation unit, he completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Penn State University and his Master of Science in Nursing from Monmouth University. Scott was board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in late 2018 and began with Life Stance in June of 2020.
Scott Ambrass earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The College of New Jersey and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Thomas Jefferson University. While working for the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania on their neurological and brain injury rehabilitation unit, he completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Penn State University and his Master of Science in Nursing from Monmouth University. Scott was board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in late 2018 and began with Life Stance in June of 2020.
(267) 710-7984 View (267) 710-7984
Photo of Martine S. Ott - Inspire Behavioral Health, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inspire Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Inspire Behavioral Health is a private psychiatry practice serving clients across the lifespan seeking to improve and maintain their emotional well-being. Offering both therapy and medication management services, our philosophy and mission are rooted in understanding you as an individual in the context of your past experiences, current family and professional lives, goals, as well as aspirations. We look forward to building the therapeutic support team that accompanies you on your journey towards a better you!
Inspire Behavioral Health is a private psychiatry practice serving clients across the lifespan seeking to improve and maintain their emotional well-being. Offering both therapy and medication management services, our philosophy and mission are rooted in understanding you as an individual in the context of your past experiences, current family and professional lives, goals, as well as aspirations. We look forward to building the therapeutic support team that accompanies you on your journey towards a better you!
(484) 254-5148 View (484) 254-5148
Photo of Dr. Michael W. Antzis, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael W. Antzis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to treatment, and take great care to listen carefully to my patients, partnering with them to move treatment forward and help them reach their goals.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to treatment, and take great care to listen carefully to my patients, partnering with them to move treatment forward and help them reach their goals.
(484) 271-0625 x7047 View (484) 271-0625 x7047
Photo of Javier G. Taboada, MD, FACP, FAAN, Psychiatrist
Javier G. Taboada
Psychiatrist, MD, FACP, FAAN
Not Verified Not Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Dr. Javier G. Taboada, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has his practice in Yardley, PA. He specializes in Adult and Child Psychiatry. He provides outpatient psychiatric evaluations, consultations and follow-up to adults and children. Fellow, American College of Physicians. Member of the American Medical Assoc. Member of the New Jersey Medical Society. Listed in ABMS, Compendium.
Dr. Javier G. Taboada, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has his practice in Yardley, PA. He specializes in Adult and Child Psychiatry. He provides outpatient psychiatric evaluations, consultations and follow-up to adults and children. Fellow, American College of Physicians. Member of the American Medical Assoc. Member of the New Jersey Medical Society. Listed in ABMS, Compendium.
(215) 392-2285 View (215) 392-2285
Photo of Jaleesa Jules, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaleesa Jules
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
York, PA 17404  (Online Only)
Patients with anxiety, depression, or trauma, often face overwhelming feelings of distress, hopelessness, & fear, that significantly impacts their daily functioning. They may have difficulty managing stress, maintaining relationships, or achieving a sense of stability. The primary needs of these patients include a safe & supportive environment, & the ability to regain control over their emotions and thoughts. Goals involve reducing the intensity and frequency of symptoms, improving emotional regulation, enhancing self-esteem, and fostering resilience. Together, we can develop practical skills to manage triggers and regain purpose.
Patients with anxiety, depression, or trauma, often face overwhelming feelings of distress, hopelessness, & fear, that significantly impacts their daily functioning. They may have difficulty managing stress, maintaining relationships, or achieving a sense of stability. The primary needs of these patients include a safe & supportive environment, & the ability to regain control over their emotions and thoughts. Goals involve reducing the intensity and frequency of symptoms, improving emotional regulation, enhancing self-esteem, and fostering resilience. Together, we can develop practical skills to manage triggers and regain purpose.
(717) 420-8764 View (717) 420-8764

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lancaster, PA

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Lancaster, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
85% ADHD
85% Bipolar Disorder
69% Sleep or Insomnia
62% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
90% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Lancaster, PA see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lancaster?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.