Psychiatrists in Presto, PA
![Photo of Melissa Lopez-Larson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/838bf499-da33-437d-b9ae-d1563932da69/1/320x400.jpeg)
Don't wait 2 weeks, appointments available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites including Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital and Cambridge Hospital, respectively. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
Don't wait 2 weeks, appointments available! Dr. Lopez-Larson is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist and received her MD from the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine. She performed her adult and child psychiatry training at Harvard Medical School training sites including Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital and Cambridge Hospital, respectively. She has been practicing for over 15 years in a variety of settings including academic research, inpatient, residential and outpatient psychiatric services.
![Photo of Frank A. Fetterolf, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4295c6fd-b53d-40c6-9ff2-eb781b686f64/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is a curious individual who desires a solution to their problems by utilizing their existing talents. They need another perspective to restructure their relationship with themselves with the courage to learn something new. They aim to achieve sustainable change through self-affirmation rather than forced surrender. They want to feel empowered and in control, motivated by the desire for long-term health and well-being. They seek to integrate their psychological desires with physical actions, ultimately enhancing their self-esteem and mastery.
My ideal client is a curious individual who desires a solution to their problems by utilizing their existing talents. They need another perspective to restructure their relationship with themselves with the courage to learn something new. They aim to achieve sustainable change through self-affirmation rather than forced surrender. They want to feel empowered and in control, motivated by the desire for long-term health and well-being. They seek to integrate their psychological desires with physical actions, ultimately enhancing their self-esteem and mastery.
![Photo of Dr. Mo Dattu - Mo Dattu, MD Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08bfade9-4ce4-4e43-acea-df637045efbf/2/320x400.jpeg)
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a793374-b273-46e2-9132-bfa28c128269/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7af000bf-9765-4a6b-a2f3-fc5e0bb60b22/2/320x400.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 Sheila Jourdain, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/021b3531-a9b2-4e65-b839-0ebb543a114c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Offering NEW in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Offering NEW “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
Offering NEW in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Offering NEW “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
![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 Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9144b90c-c3e2-4d1d-8bc3-e0f0190d28d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nicole Brynes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides psychiatric medication management, consultation & diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents & adults to help you achieve your highest potential. Perhaps you are interested in learning what medications might be options for you or your loved one, want a second opinion, or are ready to start regular medication management with an experienced provider. Please note that in accordance with the Ryan-Haight Act, I do not prescribe controlled substances (including stimulants or benzodiazepines) to those outside of Pennsylvania.
Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides psychiatric medication management, consultation & diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents & adults to help you achieve your highest potential. Perhaps you are interested in learning what medications might be options for you or your loved one, want a second opinion, or are ready to start regular medication management with an experienced provider. Please note that in accordance with the Ryan-Haight Act, I do not prescribe controlled substances (including stimulants or benzodiazepines) to those outside of Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Nicole Snyder - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcda8ad0-27be-4670-857d-2f83e054efbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Snyder - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Nicole received her undergraduate degree in psychology from West Virginia University. From there, she moved to Connecticut where she completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Saint Joseph. During her undergraduate years, Nicole volunteered with various community outreach programs specializing in psychiatry. In addition, she completed internships in crisis intervention and spent two years working in an inpatient acute care psychiatric hospital at WVU Medicine.
Nicole received her undergraduate degree in psychology from West Virginia University. From there, she moved to Connecticut where she completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Saint Joseph. During her undergraduate years, Nicole volunteered with various community outreach programs specializing in psychiatry. In addition, she completed internships in crisis intervention and spent two years working in an inpatient acute care psychiatric hospital at WVU Medicine.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb0f843c-3409-438f-917b-67379df8b43b/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 Samantha Pavlick, PMHNP, WHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d7bce54-be60-47dd-a332-0936111d7e46/3/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Pavlick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, WHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Samantha Pavlick is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health NP as well as a Women's Health NP. She earned her MSN at the University of Pennsylvania and post-masters certificate in mental health from Robert Morris University. She has extensive experience in women's health and a special interest in women's behavioral health as well as reproductive psychiatry. She works with women of all ages to address the unique concerns that can present during a woman's life. Samantha is trained in providing TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) and Spravato.
Samantha Pavlick is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health NP as well as a Women's Health NP. She earned her MSN at the University of Pennsylvania and post-masters certificate in mental health from Robert Morris University. She has extensive experience in women's health and a special interest in women's behavioral health as well as reproductive psychiatry. She works with women of all ages to address the unique concerns that can present during a woman's life. Samantha is trained in providing TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) and Spravato.
![Photo of Fitz Martin, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b397a238-b422-4845-9767-359dcd2b2ced/1/320x400.jpeg)
tion Hello, feeling sad, anxious, or having difficulty concentrating and focusing? I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner focused on delivering Client-Centered, Caring, Compassionate, and Dedicated Care. I can help you through this trying time if the symptoms impact your daily living. Sometimes we fall into a rut and can not pull ourselves out. I treat individuals ages 14 to 70.
tion Hello, feeling sad, anxious, or having difficulty concentrating and focusing? I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner focused on delivering Client-Centered, Caring, Compassionate, and Dedicated Care. I can help you through this trying time if the symptoms impact your daily living. Sometimes we fall into a rut and can not pull ourselves out. I treat individuals ages 14 to 70.
![Photo of Holly Brady, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d08a38d-f3f6-4474-949b-268d94c0635c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Brady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220 (Online Only)
Accepts clients of all ages. Must be located in FL & PA. Dr. Brady takes a holistic approach to caring for her clients with the goal of improving each individual's overall wellbeing. Mental illness impacts many facets of one's life including relationships, work, school, sleep, appetite/nutrition, and physical health. Dr. Brady will do a comprehensive assessment to understand your quality of life and help you to regain and restore wellness. Her niche is treating OCD and anxiety & common comorbidities. She is also highly experienced in treating depression, mood disorders, and eating disorders. Website: bradypsychiatryandwellness.org
Accepts clients of all ages. Must be located in FL & PA. Dr. Brady takes a holistic approach to caring for her clients with the goal of improving each individual's overall wellbeing. Mental illness impacts many facets of one's life including relationships, work, school, sleep, appetite/nutrition, and physical health. Dr. Brady will do a comprehensive assessment to understand your quality of life and help you to regain and restore wellness. Her niche is treating OCD and anxiety & common comorbidities. She is also highly experienced in treating depression, mood disorders, and eating disorders. Website: bradypsychiatryandwellness.org
![Photo of Kelly Walsh, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d40b675-5502-4231-b056-e8b8400b9bb0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Walsh is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Case Western Reserve University and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Ursuline College. Kelly has several years of experience treating multiple different psychiatric disorders in a community-based outpatient setting.
Kelly Walsh is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. She received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Case Western Reserve University and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Ursuline College. Kelly has several years of experience treating multiple different psychiatric disorders in a community-based outpatient setting.
![Photo of Alison Ercole, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55d20fc9-a28c-48f4-8736-e7e7279a6957/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Ercole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Alison. Thanks for taking the first step. Have you been struggling with mental health symptoms despite your best effort to employ coping skills? Are you looking for individualized medication options? I am a PMHNP who utilizes a strengths-based approach. In our sessions together, I’ll meet you with compassion and evidenced-based psychopharmacological approaches so you can overcome life’s challenges.
Hello, I’m Alison. Thanks for taking the first step. Have you been struggling with mental health symptoms despite your best effort to employ coping skills? Are you looking for individualized medication options? I am a PMHNP who utilizes a strengths-based approach. In our sessions together, I’ll meet you with compassion and evidenced-based psychopharmacological approaches so you can overcome life’s challenges.
![Photo of Brittani Farmer - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce4548d7-2ce2-492e-9eb8-b8feb3414128/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittani Farmer - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
After years of caring for patients with different psychiatric conditions in both inpatient and outpatient environments, Brittani developed a strong passion for mental health care and completed her graduate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
After years of caring for patients with different psychiatric conditions in both inpatient and outpatient environments, Brittani developed a strong passion for mental health care and completed her graduate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Dr. Kirsten George, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2fb85d1-6729-4416-926b-c6fe6da10a4c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kirsten George
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Not accepting new clients
I am in network with Highmark, Blue Cross PPO, and UPMC insurances. I am committed to providing high quality, individualized, evidenced-based treatment to adults with mental health issues. I place great value on the relationship between the doctor and patient and strive to understand the needs of my patients in order to make decisions based on their treatment goals. I approach patients with a holistic mindset, taking into account the myriad of factors that may be causing mental health symptoms, including lifestyle choices, nutrition, exercise, relationship issues, and medical conditions.
I am in network with Highmark, Blue Cross PPO, and UPMC insurances. I am committed to providing high quality, individualized, evidenced-based treatment to adults with mental health issues. I place great value on the relationship between the doctor and patient and strive to understand the needs of my patients in order to make decisions based on their treatment goals. I approach patients with a holistic mindset, taking into account the myriad of factors that may be causing mental health symptoms, including lifestyle choices, nutrition, exercise, relationship issues, and medical conditions.
![Photo of Julia Macedo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da3e25f8-60f6-45a8-8aba-94b36c527052/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Macedo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Macedo is a board-certified psychiatrist, focusing on a holistic, patient-centered approach towards assessing and treating mental health struggles with an emphasis on the mind-body connection. She recommends a multi-prong approach which includes medications, behavior changes, complimentary treatments and psychotherapy. Please visit www.reveriepsych.com
Dr. Macedo is a board-certified psychiatrist, focusing on a holistic, patient-centered approach towards assessing and treating mental health struggles with an emphasis on the mind-body connection. She recommends a multi-prong approach which includes medications, behavior changes, complimentary treatments and psychotherapy. Please visit www.reveriepsych.com
![Photo of Michael Okoye, PhD, CRNP, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0ace1cc-5fe8-4093-8b9a-4902953c0423/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Okoye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, CRNP, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15227 (Online Only)
I am Dr. Michael, and I warmly welcome you to Growtherapy. I am nationally board certified as both Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I come to you with over ten (10) year experience providing psychiatric/mental and behavioral healthcare in various clinical environments (including inpatient, outpatient, long term care facilities, and correctional facilities). My experiences include one year as the lead faculty (Assistant Professor) in a psychiatric/mental health nursing program where I taught every psychiatric pathology or disorder and prepared senior students for board exams.
I am Dr. Michael, and I warmly welcome you to Growtherapy. I am nationally board certified as both Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I come to you with over ten (10) year experience providing psychiatric/mental and behavioral healthcare in various clinical environments (including inpatient, outpatient, long term care facilities, and correctional facilities). My experiences include one year as the lead faculty (Assistant Professor) in a psychiatric/mental health nursing program where I taught every psychiatric pathology or disorder and prepared senior students for board exams.
![Photo of Dale E. Panzer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3211c13-22e1-4ce9-9c38-be00a47ba578/1/320x400.png)
I provide telepsychiatry and in-person services in a highly private setting in Gladwyne, PA. I have been in practice over 25 years and my typical patient is a professional who struggles with anxiety, depression or meeting the demands of a busy lie. Studies have repeatedly shown that the combination of medicine and psychotherapy is better than either alone, but treatment decisions must always be based on the individual's needs. I am one of the few providers with comprehensive skills in both and have additional qualifications and experience in in-depth psychotherapy that I am happy to discuss with you.
I provide telepsychiatry and in-person services in a highly private setting in Gladwyne, PA. I have been in practice over 25 years and my typical patient is a professional who struggles with anxiety, depression or meeting the demands of a busy lie. Studies have repeatedly shown that the combination of medicine and psychotherapy is better than either alone, but treatment decisions must always be based on the individual's needs. I am one of the few providers with comprehensive skills in both and have additional qualifications and experience in in-depth psychotherapy that I am happy to discuss with you.
See more therapy options for Presto
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Presto, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Presto, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Other |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Highmark |
100% | University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hea |
How Psychiatrists in Presto, PA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Presto?
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.