Psychiatrists in Narberth, PA
![Photo of Zachary Dylan Guy-Frank, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df563d61-1fb9-45ef-bd89-305b5b96d45b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Let me introduce myself to you: I am a board-certified psychiatrist who works with young adults and adults dealing with a wide range of mental health conditions. I work collaboratively with my clients to create an individualized treatment plan, taking into account relevant cultural, psychological, social and biological factors. Utilizing psychotherapeutic techniques, as well as medication management as needed, I work to implement a safe, empathic, and holistic framework that allows for healing and wellness.
Let me introduce myself to you: I am a board-certified psychiatrist who works with young adults and adults dealing with a wide range of mental health conditions. I work collaboratively with my clients to create an individualized treatment plan, taking into account relevant cultural, psychological, social and biological factors. Utilizing psychotherapeutic techniques, as well as medication management as needed, I work to implement a safe, empathic, and holistic framework that allows for healing and wellness.
![Photo of Chen Zhou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ae0370c-90b1-409a-a680-2fb207efa19c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to a dedicated space focused on fostering your personal well-being. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to providing support to young adults, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, as well as individuals of all ages, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. My practice encompasses a comprehensive approach to mental health, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD through a tailored blend of pharmacological intervention and psychotherapy. Our sessions are designed to offer a confidential and compassionate environment, facilitating self-exploration and personal g
Welcome to a dedicated space focused on fostering your personal well-being. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to providing support to young adults, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, as well as individuals of all ages, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. My practice encompasses a comprehensive approach to mental health, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD through a tailored blend of pharmacological intervention and psychotherapy. Our sessions are designed to offer a confidential and compassionate environment, facilitating self-exploration and personal g
![Photo of Leorah M Walsh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44060303-2cbd-4f6c-a187-4abf0b3ec277/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism in children and adults. I have additional experience treating individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, medical causes of psychiatric illness, and co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions. I regularly treat student-athletes, and gifted students and have helped many people transition through many stages and positions in life. I also have experience helping people in the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism in children and adults. I have additional experience treating individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, medical causes of psychiatric illness, and co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions. I regularly treat student-athletes, and gifted students and have helped many people transition through many stages and positions in life. I also have experience helping people in the LGBTQ+ community.
![Photo of Aviva Zohar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93e6ee76-051b-4e9d-bb47-212f2f99faee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ready for change? At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
Ready for change? At Thalia Medical, our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. Our services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well. We are now offering Telehealth in Delaware & Florida.
![Photo of Huma Mahmood, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49a49f94-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Double Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist providing psychotherapy, Medication Management and compassionate care to patients in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Two practice locations: Mainline Mental Health, LLC www.mainlinemh.com in Narberth, PA & Supreme Wellness, LLC www.supremewellnessrecovery.com in Newtown, PA which also provided Intensive Outpatient Treatment and Addiction Counseling to teens and adults. Our staff includes highly skilled licensed therapists who specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma-focused treatment.
Double Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist providing psychotherapy, Medication Management and compassionate care to patients in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Two practice locations: Mainline Mental Health, LLC www.mainlinemh.com in Narberth, PA & Supreme Wellness, LLC www.supremewellnessrecovery.com in Newtown, PA which also provided Intensive Outpatient Treatment and Addiction Counseling to teens and adults. Our staff includes highly skilled licensed therapists who specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma-focused treatment.
![Photo of Geraldine Mayor, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/565296e7-5cde-4c17-af64-08aa59fbfd45/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist with extensive experience treating Depression, Anxiety, and other Mood disorders. I work closely with my clients to create personalized treatment plans that include therapy, management of co-occurring medical conditions, and prescribing psychotropic medications when appropriate. For the last 20 years, I have been providing services at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Bryan Psychiatric Hospital, Albert Einstein Medical Center (AEMC), various Community Mental Health Centers in Philadelphia. I currently provide out-patient services at Psychiatric Associates of Pennsylvania.
I am a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist with extensive experience treating Depression, Anxiety, and other Mood disorders. I work closely with my clients to create personalized treatment plans that include therapy, management of co-occurring medical conditions, and prescribing psychotropic medications when appropriate. For the last 20 years, I have been providing services at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Bryan Psychiatric Hospital, Albert Einstein Medical Center (AEMC), various Community Mental Health Centers in Philadelphia. I currently provide out-patient services at Psychiatric Associates of Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Elena Del Busto, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc26e5d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an ABPN Board certified psychiatrist and Clinical Associate at the University of Pennsylvania in the Department of Psychiatry. I have been honored as Top Doc in Philadelphia Magazine in May 2018 and Main Line Today in 2014. I offer an integrated, holistic approach to mental health treatment and believe in using psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when appropriate. I feel it is best to use evidence-based medicine and personalized treatment plans to help optimize outcomes and improve my patients' mental health.
I am an ABPN Board certified psychiatrist and Clinical Associate at the University of Pennsylvania in the Department of Psychiatry. I have been honored as Top Doc in Philadelphia Magazine in May 2018 and Main Line Today in 2014. I offer an integrated, holistic approach to mental health treatment and believe in using psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when appropriate. I feel it is best to use evidence-based medicine and personalized treatment plans to help optimize outcomes and improve my patients' mental health.
![Photo of Wanda Hedian, FNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ee1af0-f30d-4c7f-b990-cccf6674fa22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wanda Hedian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
![Photo of Frederick Stoddard, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a5d8bf2-92ac-4ec0-883d-b6f272a9ce46/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treatment resistant depression, mindfulness based treatments for anxiety/PTSD, and addiction. I believe in a holistic approach which utilizes a combination of intensive psychotherapy and focused medication management when appropriate. In treatment-resistant cases, I have experience in using aggressive medication management with TCAs, MAOIs, and S-Ketamine. Therapy is a critical component of my management combining elements of psychoanalysis and CBT techniques.
I specialize in treatment resistant depression, mindfulness based treatments for anxiety/PTSD, and addiction. I believe in a holistic approach which utilizes a combination of intensive psychotherapy and focused medication management when appropriate. In treatment-resistant cases, I have experience in using aggressive medication management with TCAs, MAOIs, and S-Ketamine. Therapy is a critical component of my management combining elements of psychoanalysis and CBT techniques.
![Photo of Sarah J Braun, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f60d9c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychotherapist, I help people recover and grow, guided by each individual's psyche. I draw on the broad and deep resources of depth psychologies, the body-based, scientific wisdom of medicine and psychiatry, and the many artforms that humans instinctively have created for millennia. My practice includes adults, couples, children, adolescents and college students-people who come because they suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, relationship problems, medical illness, parenting challenges, crises in mid-life, and creative and professional blocks. Many come with curiosity about new directions that their lives could take.
As a psychotherapist, I help people recover and grow, guided by each individual's psyche. I draw on the broad and deep resources of depth psychologies, the body-based, scientific wisdom of medicine and psychiatry, and the many artforms that humans instinctively have created for millennia. My practice includes adults, couples, children, adolescents and college students-people who come because they suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, relationship problems, medical illness, parenting challenges, crises in mid-life, and creative and professional blocks. Many come with curiosity about new directions that their lives could take.
![Photo of Michael J Canino, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc1060c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adjustments can often be challenging. Whether it may be a shift in career, end to a relationship, or change in phase of life, these transitions can frequently disrupt our usual patterns of thinking and behavior. My professional experience has found that having an interested, empathetic, and active listener as a psychotherapist can be extremely beneficial in assisting not only with these difficult times, but also with unforeseen situations bound to occur in the future.
Adjustments can often be challenging. Whether it may be a shift in career, end to a relationship, or change in phase of life, these transitions can frequently disrupt our usual patterns of thinking and behavior. My professional experience has found that having an interested, empathetic, and active listener as a psychotherapist can be extremely beneficial in assisting not only with these difficult times, but also with unforeseen situations bound to occur in the future.
![Photo of Becky Wu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76d8e83c-df01-4229-87b4-f0d9de8552ee/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. I offer comprehensive mental health care, including psychotherapy and medication treatment, based on your individual needs.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. I offer comprehensive mental health care, including psychotherapy and medication treatment, based on your individual needs.
![Photo of Hannah Baumstein, PMHNP, LPC, CRNP, RN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4088a891-d4eb-4cad-b48e-2727c32f786e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Baumstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC, CRNP, RN, BSN
Verified Verified
Narberth, PA 19072
My personality influences my approach to providing mental health treatment in several ways. I have a naturally empathetic and compassionate disposition, which allows me to genuinely connect with my clients and create a safe, non-judgmental space for them to share their thoughts and feelings. I'm also a good listener, which helps me understand my clients' concerns and needs more deeply. Furthermore, my patience and adaptability enable me to tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet the unique requirements of each individual, ensuring a more personalized and effective treatment experience.
My personality influences my approach to providing mental health treatment in several ways. I have a naturally empathetic and compassionate disposition, which allows me to genuinely connect with my clients and create a safe, non-judgmental space for them to share their thoughts and feelings. I'm also a good listener, which helps me understand my clients' concerns and needs more deeply. Furthermore, my patience and adaptability enable me to tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet the unique requirements of each individual, ensuring a more personalized and effective treatment experience.
![Photo of Jamie Kakkanattu, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c809f60b-ed84-4ba8-b714-f497a81e288f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Kakkanattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, CCRN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm a Licensed Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified in Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health. I have the passion for helping adults and adolescents improve their mental health and emotional well-being. I understand that people often seek psychiatric support or therapy when they're experiencing emotional or psychological pain stemming from unrecognized beliefs, conflicts, or patterns. My goal as your mental health provider is to create a safe, private, trustworthy, and nonjudgemental place in which you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings.
Welcome! I'm a Licensed Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified in Family Medicine and Psychiatric Mental Health. I have the passion for helping adults and adolescents improve their mental health and emotional well-being. I understand that people often seek psychiatric support or therapy when they're experiencing emotional or psychological pain stemming from unrecognized beliefs, conflicts, or patterns. My goal as your mental health provider is to create a safe, private, trustworthy, and nonjudgemental place in which you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings.
![Photo of Lori A. Albright, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5495c856-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e06b534-9d52-427c-91a3-d3de2605a63d/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 Katelin Crane, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff4a38f-07aa-4a77-ae31-4834a0a21da8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katelin Crane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
![Photo of Eileen Peirce - PS Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d774f8c5-46e0-44d4-a1e8-f24b26077412/2/320x400.png)
PS Psychiatry works with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults to evaluate, diagnose and ultimately find the most effective medication with the goal of symptom management. We have three psychiatric providers offering weekday, week nights and weekend availability. Our providers are compassionate, caring and easily accessible. Collaborating with client's therapists and doctors is a key part of our process. We gather all pertinent information to ensure our client's are getting the right medication.
PS Psychiatry works with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults to evaluate, diagnose and ultimately find the most effective medication with the goal of symptom management. We have three psychiatric providers offering weekday, week nights and weekend availability. Our providers are compassionate, caring and easily accessible. Collaborating with client's therapists and doctors is a key part of our process. We gather all pertinent information to ensure our client's are getting the right medication.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12fbf658-e395-4cb4-b3de-f9ac6f56a500/2/320x400.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 Rachel Reis, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d23697-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
See more therapy options for Narberth
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Narberth, PA
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Narberth, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Relationship Issues |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Stress |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Aetna |
50% | Cigna and Evernorth |
33% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Narberth, PA see their clients
94% | In Person and Online | |
6% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Narberth?
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.