Psychiatrists in Sewickley, PA
![Photo of Raj A Narayan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d17119a-2c35-4c43-b599-85e33693f0c4/2/320x400.png)
I consider it a privilege to practice medicine and to offer care to the amazing clients I work with. I especially enjoy the art of integrating science and the healing arts in my treatment of mood disorders, addictions, psychosis, and other disorders that create such great suffering. Medications can be a powerful adjunct to behavioral change, but I think my profession sometimes underestimates a person’s capacity for healing and meaningful change on their own with the right supports in place.
I consider it a privilege to practice medicine and to offer care to the amazing clients I work with. I especially enjoy the art of integrating science and the healing arts in my treatment of mood disorders, addictions, psychosis, and other disorders that create such great suffering. Medications can be a powerful adjunct to behavioral change, but I think my profession sometimes underestimates a person’s capacity for healing and meaningful change on their own with the right supports in place.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Sylvia Boules, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d20cd8fe-c632-4fcf-9586-19d243979b6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified general psychiatrist with additional fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I trained in the Bronx where I learned to practice in a diverse, busy hospital setting. I came to Pittsburgh in 2019 and have been working in the outpatient world with children and adolescents ever since. I enjoy a collaborative approach of gathering perspectives from families, patients, and schools to make an accurate, kind, and thoughtful treatment plan.
I am a board certified general psychiatrist with additional fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I trained in the Bronx where I learned to practice in a diverse, busy hospital setting. I came to Pittsburgh in 2019 and have been working in the outpatient world with children and adolescents ever since. I enjoy a collaborative approach of gathering perspectives from families, patients, and schools to make an accurate, kind, and thoughtful treatment plan.
![Photo of Rachel Kosciusko - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3297962b-07f0-4126-baa1-4f172619d224/3/320x400.png)
Rachel Kosciusko - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Rachel studied psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, where she published research with the UPMC Liver Cancer Center Quality of Life Program. She continued her training at Western Psychiatric Hospital & spent three years leading therapy groups at the John Merck Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, where she processed anxiety, mood, and attention challenges. Rachel completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at DeSales University & is a Certified PA specializing in Psychiatry. While at DeSales, she completed additional training in neurology and served as a mental health mentor at the University.
Rachel studied psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, where she published research with the UPMC Liver Cancer Center Quality of Life Program. She continued her training at Western Psychiatric Hospital & spent three years leading therapy groups at the John Merck Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, where she processed anxiety, mood, and attention challenges. Rachel completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at DeSales University & is a Certified PA specializing in Psychiatry. While at DeSales, she completed additional training in neurology and served as a mental health mentor at the University.
![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 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 Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a50484fd-e8ef-4826-a746-d81411cc01fd/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Danielle Miller - Mental Health Psychiatry, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2c68a15-4bcb-4345-aec5-4876348d3c08/1/320x400.png)
Danielle Miller - Mental Health Psychiatry
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
Danielle graduated from Seton Hill University with a BS/MS in Physician Assistant Studies. She has experience treating all ages as well as a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, and schizophrenia disorders.
![Photo of Melissa Turkal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dbded21-4fb1-4a9f-87fb-6f1f3cbbaddc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Melissa Turkal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Turkal’s goal is to promote a safe space for women to begin their journey toward improved mental health. She strives to honor your lived experience. Dr. Turkal is grateful to assist her female and feminine identifying clients find the correct diagnosis, the right combination of medication, proper nutrition, exercise, and therapy to achieve emotional stability and optimal recovery.
Dr. Melissa Turkal is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. Dr. Turkal’s goal is to promote a safe space for women to begin their journey toward improved mental health. She strives to honor your lived experience. Dr. Turkal is grateful to assist her female and feminine identifying clients find the correct diagnosis, the right combination of medication, proper nutrition, exercise, and therapy to achieve emotional stability and optimal recovery.
![Photo of Amanda Hillen, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16512f66-49a3-469a-9434-3c62620f883c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Hillen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner treating clients aged 18 and older, I focus on addressing a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach prioritizes building a fair and trusting relationship with patients, ensuring they feel respected, heard, and empowered throughout their mental wellness journey. By recognizing the unique needs of each individual, I utilize a comprehensive method that combines medication management with therapeutic interventions.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner treating clients aged 18 and older, I focus on addressing a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach prioritizes building a fair and trusting relationship with patients, ensuring they feel respected, heard, and empowered throughout their mental wellness journey. By recognizing the unique needs of each individual, I utilize a comprehensive method that combines medication management with therapeutic interventions.
![Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, LPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfee1f27-e0e4-4275-9273-c808a09b62b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live fruitful and healthy life.
![Photo of Muhammad Ilyas Shaikh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46cab7d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified psychiatrist for children, teens and adults in the greater Pittsburgh area. My goal is to relieve your stress, improve your self esteem and help coping with trauma with medication management. It is crucial to seek out help especially in these challenging times. I individualize psychiatric care where you feel safe and respected regardless of gender, race, orientation or religion. Please call Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care to start your journey with us. We have a wonderful support team to guide you on your path to recovery.
I am board certified psychiatrist for children, teens and adults in the greater Pittsburgh area. My goal is to relieve your stress, improve your self esteem and help coping with trauma with medication management. It is crucial to seek out help especially in these challenging times. I individualize psychiatric care where you feel safe and respected regardless of gender, race, orientation or religion. Please call Stepping Stones Psychiatric Care to start your journey with us. We have a wonderful support team to guide you on your path to recovery.
![Photo of Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f4d131d-36ff-4cd3-8f34-03c13d3946ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tammy Lobach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Baden, PA 15005
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. Tammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified to
Dr. Tammy Lobach, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a dual-certified doctorate-prepared nurse practitioner. She specializes in psychiatric mental health and is a family nurse practitioner. Her nursing career started over 20 years ago in Pennsylvania. Tammy received her Master’s in Nursing Science from DeSales University and completed a post-master certification at Wilkes University. She also achieved a doctorate degree from Bloomsburg University. Tammy’s goal is to focus on the needs of patients and families. She takes pride in the partnership and teamwork with patients that will lead to optimal mental health and wellness. She is qualified to
![Photo of Kayla Ali - Psychiatry Mental Health, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/274cdb40-28a6-4c6b-94dc-2c88a0f0d051/2/320x400.png)
Kayla Ali - Psychiatry Mental Health
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
With a background in Health Sciences, Kayla completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at Saint Francis University and has been practicing as a Certified Physician Assistant since 2018. Before joining the Nexus Group team, Kayla worked in The Department of Family Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). During her time at UPMC, Kayla provided extensive psychiatric care to hundreds of patients with mental health issues, including management of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and addiction.
With a background in Health Sciences, Kayla completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant degree at Saint Francis University and has been practicing as a Certified Physician Assistant since 2018. Before joining the Nexus Group team, Kayla worked in The Department of Family Medicine at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). During her time at UPMC, Kayla provided extensive psychiatric care to hundreds of patients with mental health issues, including management of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and addiction.
![Photo of Paul Frye, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74a1217e-5a40-4f5e-a3d7-bdb19f52c294/1/320x400.jpeg)
Over three decades of practicing as a psychiatric physician, Dr. Paul Frye has developed a partnership approach to treatment planning. Dr. Frye provides information and recommendations, encouraging those in treatment to collaborate in the decisions. His approach to treatment is considered eclectic and medications are prescribed only if deemed to be necessary.
Over three decades of practicing as a psychiatric physician, Dr. Paul Frye has developed a partnership approach to treatment planning. Dr. Frye provides information and recommendations, encouraging those in treatment to collaborate in the decisions. His approach to treatment is considered eclectic and medications are prescribed only if deemed to be necessary.
![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 15212 (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 Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a882395f-8846-4938-9a9b-efea728f4592/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Michelle Marino - Mental Health Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5767cb40-2fae-4b3f-b657-dc7ae3108ee5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Marino - Mental Health Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Michelle completed her post master's certificate in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program at Robert Morris University and her master's degree in nursing at the University of Pittsburgh. She has half a decade of experience working in behavioral health and over 20 years of experience in health care in general, including private practice, hospitals, home care, and most recently a pediatrician's office where she worked as part of the integrated care team.
Michelle completed her post master's certificate in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program at Robert Morris University and her master's degree in nursing at the University of Pittsburgh. She has half a decade of experience working in behavioral health and over 20 years of experience in health care in general, including private practice, hospitals, home care, and most recently a pediatrician's office where she worked as part of the integrated care team.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fba5337b-ff57-4cc9-bbe6-22f6cb6e26bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment online today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment online today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting some insurances.
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f72154bc-e53f-4e70-9e6e-3eacd112d1e6/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d955d8d8-4857-4808-b154-926f8ddfca6f/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.
See more therapy options for Sewickley
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sewickley, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sewickley, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Substance Use |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Sewickley, PA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sewickley?
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.