Psychiatrists in New Wilmington, PA
![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
New Wilmington, PA 16142 (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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of W Randolph Richardson - Richardson Psychiatric Associates, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43b58b9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life can get difficult at times and seeking help for yourself or a loved one can ease the stress of the situation. Whether it's difficulty at work or school, a relationship issue, a chronic psychiatric illness, or just a transitional phase to work through, we can help! At Richardson Psychiatric, you will find supportive listeners who will help with developing skills to deal with stress that accompanies all of life's challenges. We know choosing the right place and the right person to help you is very important and believe we can offer you the best care possible.
Life can get difficult at times and seeking help for yourself or a loved one can ease the stress of the situation. Whether it's difficulty at work or school, a relationship issue, a chronic psychiatric illness, or just a transitional phase to work through, we can help! At Richardson Psychiatric, you will find supportive listeners who will help with developing skills to deal with stress that accompanies all of life's challenges. We know choosing the right place and the right person to help you is very important and believe we can offer you the best care possible.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Stephanie Arotin, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b03d0c84-3140-4ada-8fd1-e288538591c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Arotin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Indiana, PA 15701
Talking about mental health can be hard. I founded Aspire Mental Health, LLC to provide a safe and comfortable space to provide treatment for a spectrum of mental health disorders for patients ages 14 years and older.
Talking about mental health can be hard. I founded Aspire Mental Health, LLC to provide a safe and comfortable space to provide treatment for a spectrum of mental health disorders for patients ages 14 years and older.
![Photo of Sona Nadkarni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1246468-8413-4447-808d-8d66f9549d58/2/320x400.png)
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who completed my training at Allegheny General hospital in Pittsburgh. I am fellowship-trained in Child and Adolescent psychiatry from Western Psychiatric institute and Clinic of UPMC. Originally from India, where I completed my medical degree, my academic pursuits led me to Toronto, Canada where I worked as a research Coordinator for clinical trials in Cognitive Neurology, then to Albuquerque, New Mexico where I completed my internship and finally to Pittsburgh which I am proud to call home!
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist who completed my training at Allegheny General hospital in Pittsburgh. I am fellowship-trained in Child and Adolescent psychiatry from Western Psychiatric institute and Clinic of UPMC. Originally from India, where I completed my medical degree, my academic pursuits led me to Toronto, Canada where I worked as a research Coordinator for clinical trials in Cognitive Neurology, then to Albuquerque, New Mexico where I completed my internship and finally to Pittsburgh which I am proud to call home!
![Photo of Carrie Kalmar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e401b134-503c-4b65-8a75-1884a3024e9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a PMHNP at New Directions, I am driven by compassion and dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. With specialized training and expertise in psychiatry, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of holistic mental health care options to address a wide range of psychiatric concerns. My primary goal is to create a warm and non-judgmental space where clients feel understood, heard and safe working together to find a treatment approach that best supports their unique needs.
As a PMHNP at New Directions, I am driven by compassion and dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. With specialized training and expertise in psychiatry, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of holistic mental health care options to address a wide range of psychiatric concerns. My primary goal is to create a warm and non-judgmental space where clients feel understood, heard and safe working together to find a treatment approach that best supports their unique needs.
![Photo of Michael Werb - Cognitive Behavior Institute, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dfe2c71-5972-47f7-beef-291c51c3a566/1/320x400.png)
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221 (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 Rebekah DeChicko - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/153e88b3-bd58-4679-96d3-c1a71b5e2cb3/2/320x400.png)
Rebekah DeChicko - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Rebekah started her career path as a Registered Nurse working at Western Psychiatric Hospital. This experience ignited her passion for mental wellness. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing and completed her certification for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. She has over 15 years of experience and has cared for individuals with a variety of mental health challenges, including autism, mood disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In addition to Rebekah's impressive education & work history, she also received her certification for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
Rebekah started her career path as a Registered Nurse working at Western Psychiatric Hospital. This experience ignited her passion for mental wellness. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing and completed her certification for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. She has over 15 years of experience and has cared for individuals with a variety of mental health challenges, including autism, mood disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In addition to Rebekah's impressive education & work history, she also received her certification for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute.
![Photo of Nick Speeney, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77b6e137-01a3-4dbc-9dd0-8e2596140c8a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Speeney Psychiatric Services is dedicated to establishing a therapeutic alliance with all individuals who desire a positive change in their life. Achieving your idea of success and wellness is most important to me. We will work together to create a treatment plan that is right for you. I look forward to meeting you.
Speeney Psychiatric Services is dedicated to establishing a therapeutic alliance with all individuals who desire a positive change in their life. Achieving your idea of success and wellness is most important to me. We will work together to create a treatment plan that is right for you. I look forward to meeting you.
![Photo of David W. Volk - Volk Psychiatry, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b147ff4b-376f-4fab-be3b-eec5c43c95a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Volk Psychiatry is a private psychiatric practice located in the South Hills region of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Volk Psychiatry is a private psychiatric practice located in the South Hills region of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Beth Bremner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca695ea-8763-4901-92f5-ae1a2286cd5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Bremner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
I am excited to be working for The Bradley Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as part of their outpatient program. In this capacity, I will serve to evaluate and treat children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health and psychiatric concerns.
I am excited to be working for The Bradley Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as part of their outpatient program. In this capacity, I will serve to evaluate and treat children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health and psychiatric concerns.
![Photo of Funmilayo Whitaker, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b92a4d9-8a14-42da-b167-d4cfe2b39c46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Funmilayo Whitaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16501 (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in different directions, unable to be happy? Are you struggling to keep up with your daily activities, relationship, work, and health? Is it hard to be good to yourself and breathe in and out?
Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in different directions, unable to be happy? Are you struggling to keep up with your daily activities, relationship, work, and health? Is it hard to be good to yourself and breathe in and out?
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c415ffa-f72a-4661-a6c5-27e5574df8d8/2/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
![Photo of Loren Sobel - LJS Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bebad981-38fb-40d4-8497-fc0e2fa2871a/1/320x400.png)
LJS Psychiatry is a unique psychiatry practice that provides truly holistic psychiatric care. LJS Psychiatry providers are psychotherapists who can prescribe medications, when needed, in the context of individual psychotherapy. That means you no longer need to see one person for psychotherapy and another for medication treatment. Instead, we provide genuine whole person care that proves to be highly effective. When you're navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, or identity challenges, you need a space where you are met with genuine empathy, active curiosity, and a willingness to encourage honest self-examination.
LJS Psychiatry is a unique psychiatry practice that provides truly holistic psychiatric care. LJS Psychiatry providers are psychotherapists who can prescribe medications, when needed, in the context of individual psychotherapy. That means you no longer need to see one person for psychotherapy and another for medication treatment. Instead, we provide genuine whole person care that proves to be highly effective. When you're navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, or identity challenges, you need a space where you are met with genuine empathy, active curiosity, and a willingness to encourage honest self-examination.
![Photo of Sherifat Forcey, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35fd1da7-4f23-4e0a-a3f6-97fbd42a2540/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting patients in need of mental health assistance via telehealth and in-person in Pennsylvania and Minnesota and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My specialty is in medication management, and I look forward to working with clients who are interested in a client-centered, caring approach to treatment.
I am currently accepting patients in need of mental health assistance via telehealth and in-person in Pennsylvania and Minnesota and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My specialty is in medication management, and I look forward to working with clients who are interested in a client-centered, caring approach to treatment.
![Photo of Bryan Reed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/419aadd1-9833-48f0-b2b8-bbeb4f7c0ccd/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner who tries to get the best outcomes for his patients by combining evidence and their preferences. I seek to treat the whole person by combining conventional psychiatry with brain-changing therapies. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings.
I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner who tries to get the best outcomes for his patients by combining evidence and their preferences. I seek to treat the whole person by combining conventional psychiatry with brain-changing therapies. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings.
![Photo of Donald Cramer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39e58a29-c4cd-4ddc-a861-73a3f81748dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatry trained across the lifespan. I have experience in outpatient, inpatient, partial hospitalization and Intensive outpatient services. 10+ years as a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatry and 17+ years as a nurse in Critical Care Units, Cardiology, Pediatric Medical Psychiatry, Emergency Departments, Telemetry, and many levels of Behavioral Health care. I very much enjoy working with patients across the lifespan from age 6- 70 years.
I am a Board Certified Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatry trained across the lifespan. I have experience in outpatient, inpatient, partial hospitalization and Intensive outpatient services. 10+ years as a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatry and 17+ years as a nurse in Critical Care Units, Cardiology, Pediatric Medical Psychiatry, Emergency Departments, Telemetry, and many levels of Behavioral Health care. I very much enjoy working with patients across the lifespan from age 6- 70 years.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c3044d7-bc1b-4e7d-b006-c2216efae9da/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay 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 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 David T. Anthony, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e58c11-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Offering hybrid services- telehealth and in-person. Dr. David Anthony utilizes pharmacology along with supportive psychotherapy to treat patients. We accept commercial UPMC, Aetna and Blue Cross/Blue Shield plans. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid insurances.
Offering hybrid services- telehealth and in-person. Dr. David Anthony utilizes pharmacology along with supportive psychotherapy to treat patients. We accept commercial UPMC, Aetna and Blue Cross/Blue Shield plans. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid insurances.
![Photo of Thomas Krochalis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a74882f-f06d-41f4-816a-a0817a092739/1/320x400.png)
Thomas's foundational philosophy in treating patients is centered around a holistic approach, where medication management plays a role but is not the sole focus. He firmly believes in integrating psychotherapy and encouraging patients to actively participate in their mental health care, ensuring a comprehensive treatment plan. His professional background spans various settings, including working under the medical director for Northern Nevada's adult mental health system and at a federally qualified health center in Erie, PA. He is also a proud member of the Nursing Honor Society.
Thomas's foundational philosophy in treating patients is centered around a holistic approach, where medication management plays a role but is not the sole focus. He firmly believes in integrating psychotherapy and encouraging patients to actively participate in their mental health care, ensuring a comprehensive treatment plan. His professional background spans various settings, including working under the medical director for Northern Nevada's adult mental health system and at a federally qualified health center in Erie, PA. He is also a proud member of the Nursing Honor Society.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbbce8f9-1782-412f-bd43-8f06dad683e4/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
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Number of Psychiatrists in New Wilmington, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in New Wilmington, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in New Wilmington, PA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New Wilmington?
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.