Psychiatrists in Mechanicsburg, PA
Providing virtual care (with a plan for adding in person care in the near future) all over DC, PA and DE & welcoming new patients and accept a few insurance plans. Offering WEEKEND and EVENING appointments as well. We specialize in supporting individuals facing various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more. I love to work with individuals who values teamwork and open communication in their treatment journey, approaching it with trust and positivity. Together, we build a foundation of trust and mutual respect in a safe, supportive environment.
Providing virtual care (with a plan for adding in person care in the near future) all over DC, PA and DE & welcoming new patients and accept a few insurance plans. Offering WEEKEND and EVENING appointments as well. We specialize in supporting individuals facing various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more. I love to work with individuals who values teamwork and open communication in their treatment journey, approaching it with trust and positivity. Together, we build a foundation of trust and mutual respect in a safe, supportive environment.
Eagle Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
EVALUATION & FOLLOW-UP IS AVAILABLE VIA TELEHEALTH.....Eagle Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
EVALUATION & FOLLOW-UP IS AVAILABLE VIA TELEHEALTH.....Eagle Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Sherifat Forcey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Camp Hill, PA 17011
I am currently accepting patients in need of mental health assistance via telehealth and in-person in Pennsylvania and Minnesota and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My specialty is in medication management, and I look forward to working with clients who are interested in a client-centered, caring approach to treatment.
I am currently accepting patients in need of mental health assistance via telehealth and in-person in Pennsylvania and Minnesota and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My specialty is in medication management, and I look forward to working with clients who are interested in a client-centered, caring approach to treatment.
We know women’s mental health is often overlooked. NES Boutique Psychiatry makes it a priority. We see women with all psychiatric diagnosis and offer consultations, medication management, and therapy. We specialize in mood and anxiety disorders related to life events specific to the female experience.
We know women’s mental health is often overlooked. NES Boutique Psychiatry makes it a priority. We see women with all psychiatric diagnosis and offer consultations, medication management, and therapy. We specialize in mood and anxiety disorders related to life events specific to the female experience.
Erin Knowlton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Not accepting new clients
I have a huge passion for helping the mental health population. I often feel we just need someone who will not judge us, and will listen to what is going on, and get us back to the person we want to feel like again. I have a very upbeat, wanting to help personality and wish the best for everyone. Our goals will be to talk about what is going on, figure out what the right treatment options are, and get you back to feeling like the person you want to be. I am currently only offering medication management, but work very closely with many therapists, to ensure you are getting the well rounded care you need.
I have a huge passion for helping the mental health population. I often feel we just need someone who will not judge us, and will listen to what is going on, and get us back to the person we want to feel like again. I have a very upbeat, wanting to help personality and wish the best for everyone. Our goals will be to talk about what is going on, figure out what the right treatment options are, and get you back to feeling like the person you want to be. I am currently only offering medication management, but work very closely with many therapists, to ensure you are getting the well rounded care you need.
Abigail Frimpong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ASDCS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Abigail Frimpong is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Abigail is the CEO and the Founder of Mental Peace Psychiatry. Abigail has extensive experience working with vulnerable populations suffering from serious physical ailments with comorbid psychiatric, mental, behavioral, and substance use disorders in the emergency, inpatient and outpatient settings.
Abigail Frimpong is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Abigail is the CEO and the Founder of Mental Peace Psychiatry. Abigail has extensive experience working with vulnerable populations suffering from serious physical ailments with comorbid psychiatric, mental, behavioral, and substance use disorders in the emergency, inpatient and outpatient settings.
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110 (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.
Bracie Haworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101 (Online Only)
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Oklahoma, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, PPCNP-B
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, PMHS received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her post doctorate certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania, her Master of Science degree in Nursing Administration and Research from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and her post-master's certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from West Virginia University. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Waynesburg University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Indiana University.
Dr. Beverly Ann Curtis, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, PMHS received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her post doctorate certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania, her Master of Science degree in Nursing Administration and Research from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and her post-master's certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from West Virginia University. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Waynesburg University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Indiana University.
Chris Bedford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Chris and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Chris has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations treating a variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and other health conditions. He believes in the importance of a strong client/clinician partnership which allows the client maximum autonomy in decision-making. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Chris and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Chris has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations treating a variety of conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and other health conditions. He believes in the importance of a strong client/clinician partnership which allows the client maximum autonomy in decision-making. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
Michael Tolleson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2020. He studied at James Madison University, Penn State University, Harrisburg Area Community College, and Walden University. As a medical practitioner, Michael firmly upholds the principles of punctuality, expertise, and preparation, recognizing that these qualities are integral to the patient experience that he, too, anticipates when seeking medical care.
Michael Tolleson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2020. He studied at James Madison University, Penn State University, Harrisburg Area Community College, and Walden University. As a medical practitioner, Michael firmly upholds the principles of punctuality, expertise, and preparation, recognizing that these qualities are integral to the patient experience that he, too, anticipates when seeking medical care.
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101 (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.
SolCentered Integrative Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
My name is Dr. Kristen Cheslick and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan (children/adolescents, adults and older adults). My available services include mental health evaluations, medication management, brief solution-based/supportive psychotherapy, and appropriate referrals as necessary. Email my office for an appointment today at contact@solcenteredcare.com. We have appointments available Monday through Friday and some weekends.
My name is Dr. Kristen Cheslick and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan (children/adolescents, adults and older adults). My available services include mental health evaluations, medication management, brief solution-based/supportive psychotherapy, and appropriate referrals as necessary. Email my office for an appointment today at contact@solcenteredcare.com. We have appointments available Monday through Friday and some weekends.
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.
Hello there! I am a nurse practitioner who has worked in mental health for over 15 years and currently practices in Central Pennsylvania. My career began with crisis intervention and managing acute mental health emergencies. Expanding my scope, I later moved into case management, gaining a deep understanding of mental health conditions, the impact of the environment, and the importance of individualized care.
Hello there! I am a nurse practitioner who has worked in mental health for over 15 years and currently practices in Central Pennsylvania. My career began with crisis intervention and managing acute mental health emergencies. Expanding my scope, I later moved into case management, gaining a deep understanding of mental health conditions, the impact of the environment, and the importance of individualized care.
Working in both administrative and clinically driven roles, he remains highly involved and up-to-date in innovative approaches to mental health treatment. Dr. Newton has provided mental health care in all treatment settings including but not limited to, acute inpatient, outpatient, residential, corrections, long term inpatient settings, partial hospitalization programs, and any other imaginable setting that provides mental health treatment.
Working in both administrative and clinically driven roles, he remains highly involved and up-to-date in innovative approaches to mental health treatment. Dr. Newton has provided mental health care in all treatment settings including but not limited to, acute inpatient, outpatient, residential, corrections, long term inpatient settings, partial hospitalization programs, and any other imaginable setting that provides mental health treatment.
Jaleesa Jules
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101 (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.
I am a graduate of the internationally renowned McLean Hospital of Harvard Medical School with additional fellowship training in geriatric psychiatry from the University of Washington School of Medicine. I deal with the entire spectrum of mental health conditions for anyone 18+ years. Unlike most practices which operate with brief, purely medication-oriented approaches, I spend time getting to know my clients' personal and family history, and how these may affect their well-being and treatment.
I am a graduate of the internationally renowned McLean Hospital of Harvard Medical School with additional fellowship training in geriatric psychiatry from the University of Washington School of Medicine. I deal with the entire spectrum of mental health conditions for anyone 18+ years. Unlike most practices which operate with brief, purely medication-oriented approaches, I spend time getting to know my clients' personal and family history, and how these may affect their well-being and treatment.
Bright Mind Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17111 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! In a world where mental health is finally beginning to receive the attention it deserves, it’s crucial for us to understand how we can help those who are struggling. Mental health challenges affect millions of people worldwide, and by fostering a supportive environment, we can play a pivotal role in their journey toward recovery. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, are prevalent, impacting 1 in 5 adults each year. Book with me to start your journey.
Accepting New Patients! In a world where mental health is finally beginning to receive the attention it deserves, it’s crucial for us to understand how we can help those who are struggling. Mental health challenges affect millions of people worldwide, and by fostering a supportive environment, we can play a pivotal role in their journey toward recovery. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, are prevalent, impacting 1 in 5 adults each year. Book with me to start your journey.
Melissa Brubaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101 (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Melissa, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I offer telehealth medication management for adults with a focus on burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Alongside medications, I emphasize a comprehensive approach to wellness, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, self-care practices and coping strategies. Together, we’ll identify your treatment goals and the best options for achieving them.
Hi, I’m Melissa, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized mental health care. I offer telehealth medication management for adults with a focus on burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. Alongside medications, I emphasize a comprehensive approach to wellness, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, self-care practices and coping strategies. Together, we’ll identify your treatment goals and the best options for achieving them.
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Nearby Searches for Mechanicsburg
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mechanicsburg, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Mechanicsburg, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Geriatric and Seniors |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
50% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Mechanicsburg, PA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mechanicsburg?
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.