Psychiatrists in Monaca, PA
![Photo of Geena Edmonds, MSPAS, PA-C, CAQ-PSY, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7fe6f2c-3628-410f-b578-fc4556dd0f4c/1/320x400.png)
I am a licensed, board-certified physician assistant practicing in psychiatry. I thoroughly enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds and needs. My ideal client is someone who wants to feel their best! My specialty focuses on depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, trauma, and bipolar disorders. I have experience working with children (ages 7+), teenagers & adults for their mental health journey.
I am a licensed, board-certified physician assistant practicing in psychiatry. I thoroughly enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds and needs. My ideal client is someone who wants to feel their best! My specialty focuses on depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, trauma, and bipolar disorders. I have experience working with children (ages 7+), teenagers & adults for their mental health journey.
![Photo of Kelly A Scott - Scott CRNP Inc., MSN, CARN-AP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c065655-3e58-4ff8-bf05-53ae1fcdeabf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Scott CRNP Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CARN-AP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Monaca, PA 15061
I am a board certified Psychiatric, Women's Health, and Addiction Nurse Practitioner. At SOS, I treat ages 18 and older and offer medication assisted treatment for individuals with addiction. I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Masters of Science in Nursing in 1999 and completed a post graduate certification in 2018 from Wilkes University as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have been working as a nurse practitioner serving patients of Beaver, Allegheny, and Lawrence counties in Pennsylvania and Columbiana, Mahoning, and Trumbull counties in Ohio during my career.
I am a board certified Psychiatric, Women's Health, and Addiction Nurse Practitioner. At SOS, I treat ages 18 and older and offer medication assisted treatment for individuals with addiction. I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Masters of Science in Nursing in 1999 and completed a post graduate certification in 2018 from Wilkes University as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have been working as a nurse practitioner serving patients of Beaver, Allegheny, and Lawrence counties in Pennsylvania and Columbiana, Mahoning, and Trumbull counties in Ohio during my career.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kathryn Molczan, CRNP, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc230b6f-48f5-4a67-a279-eac1cb39c3dc/1/320x400.png)
Kathryn Molczan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beaver, PA 15009 (Online Only)
Are you so anxious that you worry about your worry? You may be fed up with the constant anxious thoughts bombarding your mind, feeling tired, agitated, and overwhelmed. You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. But there is one thing you know without question, you are ready for an end to the racing thoughts. You’re ready to experience calm and peace. You are ready to enjoy moments without fear. Most of all, you are ready to live life confidently.
Are you so anxious that you worry about your worry? You may be fed up with the constant anxious thoughts bombarding your mind, feeling tired, agitated, and overwhelmed. You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. But there is one thing you know without question, you are ready for an end to the racing thoughts. You’re ready to experience calm and peace. You are ready to enjoy moments without fear. Most of all, you are ready to live life confidently.
![Photo of Bethany Porter, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cac68dd1-5ba2-4f58-b333-510e80484485/4/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany Porter is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her BSN from The George Washington University and her DNP from Robert Morris University. Since starting her nursing career in 2014, she has gained extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan on the inpatient level of care, including the UPMC Center for Eating Disorders at Western Psychiatric Hospital and child/adolescent behavioral health units. Her clinical interests include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety/mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Bethany Porter is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her BSN from The George Washington University and her DNP from Robert Morris University. Since starting her nursing career in 2014, she has gained extensive experience working with patients across the lifespan on the inpatient level of care, including the UPMC Center for Eating Disorders at Western Psychiatric Hospital and child/adolescent behavioral health units. Her clinical interests include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety/mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
![Photo of Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98ef3576-e60b-4ca5-8704-259fba7bbaba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tammy Lobach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Baden, PA 15005
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. Tammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified to
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. Tammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified to
![Photo of Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f4d131d-36ff-4cd3-8f34-03c13d3946ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tammy Lobach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Baden, PA 15005
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. Tammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified to
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. Tammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified to
![Photo of Elizabeth Stewart, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e51226cb-7382-4b43-aa85-a724f0730881/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
Elizabeth is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with T and C Psychiatric Services LLC. T and C Psychiatric Services is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
Elizabeth is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with T and C Psychiatric Services LLC. T and C Psychiatric Services is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
![Photo of Jason Benton, CRNP, CPHom, CST-T, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2f2dd67-d0ae-44d2-9ee6-29cc0e2510ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Benton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, CPHom, CST-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zelienople, PA 16063
Psychiatric medications are life-saving and effective, yet also come with immediate and long-term risks. I can help those who are looking to reduce side effects, find medication options more suitable, or avoid the risks of conventional meds altogether. Overall, when prescribing, I aim to find a balance which allows for personal growth, vitality, and autonomy.
Psychiatric medications are life-saving and effective, yet also come with immediate and long-term risks. I can help those who are looking to reduce side effects, find medication options more suitable, or avoid the risks of conventional meds altogether. Overall, when prescribing, I aim to find a balance which allows for personal growth, vitality, and autonomy.
![Photo of Tara Burkholder - T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f21a287f-fb5f-4b04-8477-310571bc4b47/1/320x400.png)
T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
Our Expert Team is Ready to Help! T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
Our Expert Team is Ready to Help! T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
![Photo of Peter D Murray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5243d222-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter D Murray
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
I spent two decades as a psychiatrist in a psychiatric emergency room, and my heart always went out to all of the people who I saw who I thought were misdiagnosed and improperly treated. I hope to help change that now that I have moved into providing individual treatment. I am not a psychiatrist who just wants to see you just to repeatedly write unending prescriptions, either. More than anything, I want to just UNDERSTAND who you are and what you need. If we can achieve THAT, then I promise that I will do my best to help you get the BEST treatment for your condition and your situation.
I spent two decades as a psychiatrist in a psychiatric emergency room, and my heart always went out to all of the people who I saw who I thought were misdiagnosed and improperly treated. I hope to help change that now that I have moved into providing individual treatment. I am not a psychiatrist who just wants to see you just to repeatedly write unending prescriptions, either. More than anything, I want to just UNDERSTAND who you are and what you need. If we can achieve THAT, then I promise that I will do my best to help you get the BEST treatment for your condition and your situation.
![Photo of Amanda Hillen, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16512f66-49a3-469a-9434-3c62620f883c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Hillen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner treating clients aged 18 and older, I focus on addressing a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach prioritizes building a fair and trusting relationship with patients, ensuring they feel respected, heard, and empowered throughout their mental wellness journey. By recognizing the unique needs of each individual, I utilize a comprehensive method that combines medication management with therapeutic interventions.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner treating clients aged 18 and older, I focus on addressing a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach prioritizes building a fair and trusting relationship with patients, ensuring they feel respected, heard, and empowered throughout their mental wellness journey. By recognizing the unique needs of each individual, I utilize a comprehensive method that combines medication management with therapeutic interventions.
![Photo of Lauren Naveh, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e2fcd15-9997-4c29-8f80-d7a8e49e231e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Naveh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
Lauren is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC. Our Expert Team is Ready to Help! T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
Lauren is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services, LLC. Our Expert Team is Ready to Help! T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders. At T and C Psychiatric Services, we strive to make accessing care easy and convenient for you. Becoming a patient is as simple as reaching out to us through a call, text, or email.
![Photo of Dr. Monica L Garrick Drago, MD, MSW, MJ, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d6e8c91-0d68-46be-8037-cc874cb1d77a/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Monica L Garrick Drago
Psychiatrist, MD, MSW, MJ
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
My ideal clients are children (as young as 3), adults, and families. Parental involvement is crucial in therapy for children, and I advocate for supporting children with learning disabilities. I also have a strong history of helping students and parents navigate their educational rights, including at the college level. I mediate custody arrangements and troubled parent relationships, and I support parents dealing with behavioral difficulties in children or adolescents. My goal is to teach you that you will do well if you can; if you can’t, there is an issue that requires help with an emphasis on skills and understanding.
My ideal clients are children (as young as 3), adults, and families. Parental involvement is crucial in therapy for children, and I advocate for supporting children with learning disabilities. I also have a strong history of helping students and parents navigate their educational rights, including at the college level. I mediate custody arrangements and troubled parent relationships, and I support parents dealing with behavioral difficulties in children or adolescents. My goal is to teach you that you will do well if you can; if you can’t, there is an issue that requires help with an emphasis on skills and understanding.
![Photo of Kathleen Mcewen, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0909c21a-7f92-48b1-ba6a-4c0fd1c51b0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Mcewen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
Kathleen is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services LLC. T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders
Kathleen is a CRNP working with T and C Psychiatric Services LLC. T and C Psychiatric Services LLC is a telepsychiatry practice providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals at least 18 years of age and older throughout Pennsylvania. We treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, and eating disorders
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Megan Rombold, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b262e842-4caf-43d7-8a87-3618621adb50/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Rombold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317 (Online Only)
Megan Rombold is a board certified mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Robert Morris University. Her clinical background includes psychiatry, neurology and neurosurgery.
Megan Rombold is a board certified mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Robert Morris University. Her clinical background includes psychiatry, neurology and neurosurgery.
![Photo of Justina Grant, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f63abcb4-c294-4227-ba85-988f8910655e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome! Are you struggling with daily challenges impacting your mental and physical well-being? Whether it's stress, anxiety, fatigue, focus, or sleep issues, I aim to provide holistic care, addressing your needs comprehensively by offering diverse treatment options. Mental health care should be accessible, compassionate, and patient-centered. Each person is unique, and I am here to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier life. Office location inside Laurel Pediatric or online via telehealth and I work with children and adults’ age 7-70 struggling with mental health issues in need of medication management.
Hello and welcome! Are you struggling with daily challenges impacting your mental and physical well-being? Whether it's stress, anxiety, fatigue, focus, or sleep issues, I aim to provide holistic care, addressing your needs comprehensively by offering diverse treatment options. Mental health care should be accessible, compassionate, and patient-centered. Each person is unique, and I am here to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier life. Office location inside Laurel Pediatric or online via telehealth and I work with children and adults’ age 7-70 struggling with mental health issues in need of medication management.
![Photo of Lucy Krut, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8283a14e-c196-4812-afe8-e3920d9c5319/1/320x400.jpeg)
I view every client as an individual and collaborate with them to develop a treatment plan that meets their specific needs. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions at both Journey Locations (Murrysville and Green Tree).
I view every client as an individual and collaborate with them to develop a treatment plan that meets their specific needs. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions at both Journey Locations (Murrysville and Green Tree).
![Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a793374-b273-46e2-9132-bfa28c128269/1/320x400.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 Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, LPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfee1f27-e0e4-4275-9273-c808a09b62b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
See more therapy options for Monaca
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Monaca, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Monaca, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Autism |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Monaca, PA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Monaca?
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.