Psychiatrists in Mount Pocono, PA
![Photo of Lula Thomas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d332ae-62e8-4759-9345-f0125445cd0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lula Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Pocono, PA 18344 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Lula Thomas, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been in practice for over ten years. I genuinely love what I do and believe in a holistic patient-centered approach. If you ever feel sad overwhelmed, lack motivation, struggle with goals, or don't enjoy things you used to, I am here to help. Sometimes, loved ones/friends see us struggle unnecessarily in certain areas of our lives but we have adapted to silent hardship. I do a complete evaluation for increased awareness, provide professional resources in many areas, and look forward to helping you find and easier path.
Hello, my name is Lula Thomas, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been in practice for over ten years. I genuinely love what I do and believe in a holistic patient-centered approach. If you ever feel sad overwhelmed, lack motivation, struggle with goals, or don't enjoy things you used to, I am here to help. Sometimes, loved ones/friends see us struggle unnecessarily in certain areas of our lives but we have adapted to silent hardship. I do a complete evaluation for increased awareness, provide professional resources in many areas, and look forward to helping you find and easier path.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Michael Bondar, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/450fd571-90d6-4ad9-bc00-2dc019d57510/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am a psychiatric provider in the Philly area. I am offering in-person and virtual appointments. I work with a wide array of disorders such as depression, anxiety, OCD, ODD, ADHD, ASD, borderline personality disorder, addiction, eating disorders, and self harm/suicidal ideations. I treat clients ranging from 6-90 years, however my specialty is children, teens, and young adults. I strive to create a comprehensive treatment plan for my clients. To ensure the best care, I work with my client's parents, therapists, doctors and teachers. I can prescribe genetic testing to make certain my clients are on the right medications.
Hello, I am a psychiatric provider in the Philly area. I am offering in-person and virtual appointments. I work with a wide array of disorders such as depression, anxiety, OCD, ODD, ADHD, ASD, borderline personality disorder, addiction, eating disorders, and self harm/suicidal ideations. I treat clients ranging from 6-90 years, however my specialty is children, teens, and young adults. I strive to create a comprehensive treatment plan for my clients. To ensure the best care, I work with my client's parents, therapists, doctors and teachers. I can prescribe genetic testing to make certain my clients are on the right medications.
![Photo of David Monheit, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57b87059-fa5a-4bc1-80ac-48537b271a90/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Monheit has been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. While his primary responsibility diagnosis and medication management, he has completed psychoanalytic training and has many years of experience in eastern philosophy and practices. He has taught at the medical school and postgraduate levels. Dr. Monheit treats a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, bipolar and schizoaffective disorders amongst others.
Dr. Monheit has been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. While his primary responsibility diagnosis and medication management, he has completed psychoanalytic training and has many years of experience in eastern philosophy and practices. He has taught at the medical school and postgraduate levels. Dr. Monheit treats a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, bipolar and schizoaffective disorders amongst others.
![Photo of Kimberlie Taylor - Tranquil & Serene Psychiatry , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25a2664b-ee19-4098-b401-efe1cc6be546/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tranquil & Serene Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colmar, PA 18915 (Online Only)
My ideal clients are open to sharing their lives with me. They are open to education and exploring treatment plans that suit their needs. My goal is to provide options for patients to be empowered. We can also use Genesight testing to help determine how your DNA interacts with medications to determine best treatment options. Genesight test results are usually returned within 48 hours, making it a fast efficient tool for selection of medications.
My ideal clients are open to sharing their lives with me. They are open to education and exploring treatment plans that suit their needs. My goal is to provide options for patients to be empowered. We can also use Genesight testing to help determine how your DNA interacts with medications to determine best treatment options. Genesight test results are usually returned within 48 hours, making it a fast efficient tool for selection of medications.
![Photo of David M. Lee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4059d64b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel worried, stressed, or stuck by a particular issue or in general? Have you noticed a pattern of experiences in life that you'd like help with? Does it affect your work or relationships? Have you had other treatments that have left you feeling that some underlying issue has not been fully addressed? Empathic and kind listening & exploration, alongside personal experience & growth may be necessary. My patients tend to be intelligent & sensitive, but come in struggling or unhappy in their lives. They have become aware of the same issues presenting over & over again.
Do you feel worried, stressed, or stuck by a particular issue or in general? Have you noticed a pattern of experiences in life that you'd like help with? Does it affect your work or relationships? Have you had other treatments that have left you feeling that some underlying issue has not been fully addressed? Empathic and kind listening & exploration, alongside personal experience & growth may be necessary. My patients tend to be intelligent & sensitive, but come in struggling or unhappy in their lives. They have become aware of the same issues presenting over & over again.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cc9af90-9883-4ac6-8101-6a9de1549ae6/2/320x400.png)
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
![Photo of Chris Pagnani - Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4de0593c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
![Photo of Parisa Parsa - Parisa Parsa-Agency Has No Waiting List!, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/323af1d2-ad9b-4025-88ac-a3880c147901/2/320x400.jpeg)
Parisa Parsa-Agency Has No Waiting List!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I have always been very passionate about mental health, and working with patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and substance use disorder over the years have helped me to develop an integrated approach to mental health. I pursued my studies to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner following practicing as a primary care provider for over six years. Working with a diverse population throughout my career in different countries including Canada has enabled me to develop a deeper understanding of the importance of mental health, and my goal is to work with each individual to find the best suitable treatment plan
I have always been very passionate about mental health, and working with patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and substance use disorder over the years have helped me to develop an integrated approach to mental health. I pursued my studies to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner following practicing as a primary care provider for over six years. Working with a diverse population throughout my career in different countries including Canada has enabled me to develop a deeper understanding of the importance of mental health, and my goal is to work with each individual to find the best suitable treatment plan
![Photo of Angela Marie Jacobs, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8526d683-7fd0-4636-9fda-3c298806c36c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am glad you are here. My name is Dr. Angela Jacobs, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Medical School in 2008 and completed my formal psychiatric training in 2012. I have spent my career caring for patients in the inpatient and outpatient settings. I also have experience in the state hospitals and prison system. Controlled substances are available from my practice on a very limited basis and never on the first session. All paperwork such as FMLA and related will only be considered after several months of treatment.
Hello, I am glad you are here. My name is Dr. Angela Jacobs, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Medical School in 2008 and completed my formal psychiatric training in 2012. I have spent my career caring for patients in the inpatient and outpatient settings. I also have experience in the state hospitals and prison system. Controlled substances are available from my practice on a very limited basis and never on the first session. All paperwork such as FMLA and related will only be considered after several months of treatment.
![Photo of David Petersen - Pine Run Mental Health and Wellness LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14873854-3206-4fcc-90ed-b84b8d2f944c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pine Run Mental Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Williamsport, PA 17701
I am a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have been an advanced practice NP since 2015. I obtained my undergraduate degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA. I obtained my graduate degree from Bloomsburg University in Bloomsburg, PA and finished a post master’s for psychiatric mental health at Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, PA. My goal has always been to help the underserved and assist complex patients in regaining independence with physical and mental health. I welcome the challenge of treating multiple medical and psychiatric issues with open arms.
I am a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have been an advanced practice NP since 2015. I obtained my undergraduate degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA. I obtained my graduate degree from Bloomsburg University in Bloomsburg, PA and finished a post master’s for psychiatric mental health at Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, PA. My goal has always been to help the underserved and assist complex patients in regaining independence with physical and mental health. I welcome the challenge of treating multiple medical and psychiatric issues with open arms.
![Photo of Claudia Baldassano - Main Line Institute, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e51e6bd6-ec3c-4c47-9d01-477ebd008826/2/320x400.png)
Our team of Harvard-trained psychiatrists bring over 25 years of experience specializing in evidence-based psychiatry. We provide personalized and compassionate care through innovative treatments, including medication management and meticulously selected psychotherapy. Academically affiliated, we stay current with up to date and innovative treatments and continue to present at academic meetings. We believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our approach is that it is important to spend time making a diagnosis before recommending treatment.
Our team of Harvard-trained psychiatrists bring over 25 years of experience specializing in evidence-based psychiatry. We provide personalized and compassionate care through innovative treatments, including medication management and meticulously selected psychotherapy. Academically affiliated, we stay current with up to date and innovative treatments and continue to present at academic meetings. We believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our approach is that it is important to spend time making a diagnosis before recommending treatment.
There is really no such thing as a ideal client. Many people struggle with internal conflicts which need to be resolved . The conflicts maybe resolved with counseling and sometime with medications when the conflict begin to affect the relationships and themselves .
There is really no such thing as a ideal client. Many people struggle with internal conflicts which need to be resolved . The conflicts maybe resolved with counseling and sometime with medications when the conflict begin to affect the relationships and themselves .
![Photo of Emily Bernstein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a855d035-5573-48dd-9cd6-4a4576b6b31f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Dr. Emily Bernstein. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with almost 20 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use and mental health, ADHD and more. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy out of my office in Paoli, PA. I strive to build a trusting relationship with all of my patients and will work with you to build a treatment plan that you feel comfortable with. I am happy to offer both in person and virtual appointments to suit your needs.
Hello! My name is Dr. Emily Bernstein. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with almost 20 years of experience treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use and mental health, ADHD and more. I provide both medication management and psychotherapy out of my office in Paoli, PA. I strive to build a trusting relationship with all of my patients and will work with you to build a treatment plan that you feel comfortable with. I am happy to offer both in person and virtual appointments to suit your needs.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35e24a0e-13d6-44fe-b9e6-5293050b5597/2/320x400.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 Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0109bdd-93db-402b-95dd-bbe317fe89ed/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 Venkat Chakkaravarthi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d990697-3688-4478-89ff-7c9f081afa9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Venkat Chakkaravarthi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 (Online Only)
Visit our website for fees, services & to book an appointment. Dr. Venkat Chakkaravarthi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. He provides medication management and therapy services. Virtual appointments are available for patients who are physically located at the time of their appointment in Pennsylvania only (this means, you do not need to be living in these states).
Visit our website for fees, services & to book an appointment. Dr. Venkat Chakkaravarthi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. He provides medication management and therapy services. Virtual appointments are available for patients who are physically located at the time of their appointment in Pennsylvania only (this means, you do not need to be living in these states).
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3b41ef3-aa24-42e4-9127-473388cff523/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6c6f335-dcb8-477c-bf4d-ec0ab6ea99b0/1/320x400.png)
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Reading, PA 19606 (Online Only)
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
![Photo of Denise Miller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcf5b536-45b8-4ce3-8d1f-98ea3802f88f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Miller, PMHNP Denise Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2021. Denise offers patient centered care, providing supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and medication management. Outside of work, Denise volunteers at nursing homes and other public events with her therapy dog, fosters puppies for several rescues, and enjoys outdoor activities with family such as hiking and camping.
Denise Miller, PMHNP Denise Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2021. Denise offers patient centered care, providing supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and medication management. Outside of work, Denise volunteers at nursing homes and other public events with her therapy dog, fosters puppies for several rescues, and enjoys outdoor activities with family such as hiking and camping.
![Photo of Seetha Chandrasekhara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c4597dc-abd0-4f35-8360-2d2ecd3e975a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Seetha Chandrasekhara is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. She completed her undergraduate studies in Behavioral Neuroscience at Lehigh University. After college, she attended medical school at Temple. and stayed on at Temple to complete her residency in general psychiatry and serve as Chief Resident her last year. While in residency, she completed a master's in Urban Bioethics, and she went on to complete her geriatric psychiatry fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Chandrasekhara is board certified in General Psychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry.
Dr. Seetha Chandrasekhara is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. She completed her undergraduate studies in Behavioral Neuroscience at Lehigh University. After college, she attended medical school at Temple. and stayed on at Temple to complete her residency in general psychiatry and serve as Chief Resident her last year. While in residency, she completed a master's in Urban Bioethics, and she went on to complete her geriatric psychiatry fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Chandrasekhara is board certified in General Psychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mount Pocono, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Mount Pocono, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Parenting |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | AmeriHealth |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Mount Pocono, PA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mount Pocono?
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.