Psychiatrists in Lebanon, PA
![Photo of Laura Moyer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65f37410-e211-4081-89cf-fc952fca029b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from Purdue University Global and I have been practicing for 5 years. My specialties include treatment of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders base upon evidenced-based practice. My mission is to treat individuals with compassion and empathy to assist each individual become the best version of themselves.
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from Purdue University Global and I have been practicing for 5 years. My specialties include treatment of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders base upon evidenced-based practice. My mission is to treat individuals with compassion and empathy to assist each individual become the best version of themselves.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Wendy Ann Reiss, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f13c193-90fd-44bb-b4a2-6b1a8122293f/1/320x400.png)
Wendy Ann Reiss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Annville, PA 17003 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or perhaps addiction. Look no further you have come to the right place. We offer qualified providers to help get your life back on track. We provide Telepsychiatry and in person office visits. We also treat children Your road to recovery is just a phone call away.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or perhaps addiction. Look no further you have come to the right place. We offer qualified providers to help get your life back on track. We provide Telepsychiatry and in person office visits. We also treat children Your road to recovery is just a phone call away.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Michael Su - michaelsumdpc, MD, MA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1575855f-863c-4cd2-9c7e-fd12adf3be58/1/320x400.jpeg)
My practice focuses on Integrative Medicine, the concept of Mind, Body and Spirit. Mental illness involved the whole body not just the brain. Brian health, thinking habits, diet, exercise, stress response techniques and religious believe all affecting our mood and behavior. If people knows the factors influencing their anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and behaviors, they will be in control of their life. Our clinic had a TMS machine, which is FDA approved for depression treatment. TMS also had off labled indications for anxiety, PTSD, addiction, ear ringing, muscle pain, headache ect.
My practice focuses on Integrative Medicine, the concept of Mind, Body and Spirit. Mental illness involved the whole body not just the brain. Brian health, thinking habits, diet, exercise, stress response techniques and religious believe all affecting our mood and behavior. If people knows the factors influencing their anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and behaviors, they will be in control of their life. Our clinic had a TMS machine, which is FDA approved for depression treatment. TMS also had off labled indications for anxiety, PTSD, addiction, ear ringing, muscle pain, headache ect.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90b49382-72e5-4d2c-b87c-08a3af26b0f5/2/320x400.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 Marja Elina Mattila-Evenden, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbe3aa68-d5db-4068-b984-4ca99cdf8e4d/5/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Marja M.Evenden, and I am an ABPN -certified psychiatrist in Philadelphia area. In addition to hospital work, I am also treating private patients. I would like to offer my extensive professional training, in the U.S. and in Europe, to help you feel better and improve the quality of life. Some of my special interests are: diagnostics and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, biological psychiatry/biomarkers, dual diagnoses, ADHD and low dose benzodiazepine dependence. By training I am well rounded to master the whole spectrum of psychiatric treatment types. I believe strongly in personalized medicine.
Hi! My name is Marja M.Evenden, and I am an ABPN -certified psychiatrist in Philadelphia area. In addition to hospital work, I am also treating private patients. I would like to offer my extensive professional training, in the U.S. and in Europe, to help you feel better and improve the quality of life. Some of my special interests are: diagnostics and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, biological psychiatry/biomarkers, dual diagnoses, ADHD and low dose benzodiazepine dependence. By training I am well rounded to master the whole spectrum of psychiatric treatment types. I believe strongly in personalized medicine.
![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.
![Photo of Erica Borman, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a88d82f8-df3f-476d-bc3a-f1bb06fe5676/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Borman is board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. Erica graduated from Cornell University with a BA in Biology and Society. After completing medical school at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of the NJ School of Osteopathic Medicine, she then trained for two years in Obstetrics and Gynecology before completing a psychiatry residency at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. She has experience in a wide array of mental health issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD.
Dr. Borman is board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. Erica graduated from Cornell University with a BA in Biology and Society. After completing medical school at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of the NJ School of Osteopathic Medicine, she then trained for two years in Obstetrics and Gynecology before completing a psychiatry residency at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. She has experience in a wide array of mental health issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD.
![Photo of Caroline Elizabeth Brown, MSN, PMHNPBC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba859d9d-41a9-4997-9041-d425fe622f0a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Elizabeth Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exton, PA 19341
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.
![Photo of Rita Shaughnessy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe5b4d10-badc-49fd-ad78-42754ede9643/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shaughnessy is boarded in adult psychiatry and has over 30 years experience. Dr. Shaughnessy practices medication management in a supportive collaborative environment. Treatment recommendations may include psychotherapy with another professional in addition to medication management.
Dr. Shaughnessy is boarded in adult psychiatry and has over 30 years experience. Dr. Shaughnessy practices medication management in a supportive collaborative environment. Treatment recommendations may include psychotherapy with another professional in addition to medication management.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f77cb0-9350-4c84-bc88-bcf3b0349bd4/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
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 Matthew Booth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe2667da-3bb2-4ae3-aca6-59a429526211/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with my patients to build a treatment plan that matches your individual needs. In my practice, there will be no gaslighting or judgement - one small fact that most of my patients enjoy is that I will flat out ask everybody "What do you think is going on? Did you have a diagnosis or treatment options in mind?".
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with my patients to build a treatment plan that matches your individual needs. In my practice, there will be no gaslighting or judgement - one small fact that most of my patients enjoy is that I will flat out ask everybody "What do you think is going on? Did you have a diagnosis or treatment options in mind?".
![Photo of Teri Hardgrove, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e60fa82-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat psychiatric conditions using a holistic and bio-psycho-social approach. My goal is to restore feelings of stability and well-being and I work with each patient to develop a specialized plan of care. My training has offered me the ability to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I understand that starting medication can have its concerns and I strive to provide education and counseling during this process.
As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I treat psychiatric conditions using a holistic and bio-psycho-social approach. My goal is to restore feelings of stability and well-being and I work with each patient to develop a specialized plan of care. My training has offered me the ability to provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I understand that starting medication can have its concerns and I strive to provide education and counseling during this process.
![Photo of Marlene Chelso, APN, MSN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c54ba98-bca9-4541-a815-0cb421a0cefb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marlene Chelso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128 (Online Only)
I have had a private practice in medication management for 21 years in several locations; am currently licensed in Connecticut and New Jersey, but am able to do telehealth appointments wherever you are located. Patients have found this to be very helpful, as we can connect from your home or work. My experience is in multiple settings: inpatient, outpatient, and crisis intervention. I have also served as a consultant to patients with mental health concerns in a neurology practice and in an HIV clinic. I have held faculty positions at several universities, and currently serve as an associate professor at UPENN's School of Nursing.
I have had a private practice in medication management for 21 years in several locations; am currently licensed in Connecticut and New Jersey, but am able to do telehealth appointments wherever you are located. Patients have found this to be very helpful, as we can connect from your home or work. My experience is in multiple settings: inpatient, outpatient, and crisis intervention. I have also served as a consultant to patients with mental health concerns in a neurology practice and in an HIV clinic. I have held faculty positions at several universities, and currently serve as an associate professor at UPENN's School of Nursing.
![Photo of Kathia Duverne-Douyon, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03ad3728-4e94-48ab-802d-a8685e799ea3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kathia Duverne-Douyon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping individuals, like yourself, become the best versions of themselves by empowering you on your journey to healing and personal growth. Are you struggling with focus and memory, feeling unmotivated, or lacking purpose? Do you find it challenging to face each day? Experiencing mood swings? Ongoing sadness, or a sense of impending doom? Are past traumas triggering nightmares and impacting your well-being?
I am passionate about helping individuals, like yourself, become the best versions of themselves by empowering you on your journey to healing and personal growth. Are you struggling with focus and memory, feeling unmotivated, or lacking purpose? Do you find it challenging to face each day? Experiencing mood swings? Ongoing sadness, or a sense of impending doom? Are past traumas triggering nightmares and impacting your well-being?
![Photo of Dr. Denise Chase, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24a13c3b-7fc3-40d5-b273-805215096e53/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Denise Chase
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046 (Online Only)
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it
![Photo of Kristen Bransby (Pediatric And Adolescents), DNP, CPNP-PC, CRNP, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9908cf4-dc04-43a4-8cce-c723dc8ecbda/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Bransby (Pediatric And Adolescents)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CPNP-PC, CRNP, PMHS
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Dr. Kristen A. Bransby provides mental health services to pediatric and adolescent patients up to 21 years of age (no adults). By training and certification she is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Mental Health Specialist. In addition, she completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice and focuses on always providing evidence-based medicine. Kristen is an Associate Teacher Professor at Penn State University’s Graduate School teaching nurse practitioner and doctoral students. Kristen believes in ongoing collaboration with patients and families to monitor patient progress and maintain a state of mental health equilibrium.
Dr. Kristen A. Bransby provides mental health services to pediatric and adolescent patients up to 21 years of age (no adults). By training and certification she is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Mental Health Specialist. In addition, she completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice and focuses on always providing evidence-based medicine. Kristen is an Associate Teacher Professor at Penn State University’s Graduate School teaching nurse practitioner and doctoral students. Kristen believes in ongoing collaboration with patients and families to monitor patient progress and maintain a state of mental health equilibrium.
I work with children, adolescents and adults who are looking for help to feel better about themselves and their lives. As a psychoanalyst with many years of experience working with all ages, I work with people to discover the causes of their distress. We can then work together to find new ways that they can understand the underlying problems and new ways to deal with them. I am also a psychiatrist with child, adolescent and adult training. While my primary focus is psychotherapy, I am also able to discuss possible needs for medication.
I work with children, adolescents and adults who are looking for help to feel better about themselves and their lives. As a psychoanalyst with many years of experience working with all ages, I work with people to discover the causes of their distress. We can then work together to find new ways that they can understand the underlying problems and new ways to deal with them. I am also a psychiatrist with child, adolescent and adult training. While my primary focus is psychotherapy, I am also able to discuss possible needs for medication.
![Photo of Gracie Yeo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/925dc542-fafa-4957-9264-0633266efba9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Yeo is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology board certified psychiatrist specializing in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry as well as Adult Psychiatry. She offers evidence-based treatment that is individualized to the unique needs of each patient with psychotherapy and medication management. She has experience working with all ages from school aged children to older adults. She often coordinates with other providers (school counselors, teachers, therapists, family physicians) to ensure comprehensive and integrated care. Member of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 professionals in the Philadelphia area
Dr. Yeo is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology board certified psychiatrist specializing in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry as well as Adult Psychiatry. She offers evidence-based treatment that is individualized to the unique needs of each patient with psychotherapy and medication management. She has experience working with all ages from school aged children to older adults. She often coordinates with other providers (school counselors, teachers, therapists, family physicians) to ensure comprehensive and integrated care. Member of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 professionals in the Philadelphia area
![Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10ef0aec-5519-4aad-a9a7-4afcea995a0e/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
![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 Lebanon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lebanon, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lebanon, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Spirituality |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | AmeriHealth |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Lebanon, PA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lebanon?
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.