Psychiatrists in Warminster, PA
![Photo of Martin Brecher, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48a170ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Martin Brecher - Hope Springs is committed to giving the best of themselves in an effort to bring out the best in all of those who enter our facility. Our team consists of psychiatrists and licensed therapists who are experienced in treating adolescents, teens and adults with various neurological and behavioral conditions. Psychotherapy provided in my office is mandatory, along with medication if required. We are an Intensive Outpatient Facility where we do accept insurance only when psychotherapy is agreed upon for teens and adults. Teens, adults and their families are welcome to participate in our successful treatment model.
Martin Brecher - Hope Springs is committed to giving the best of themselves in an effort to bring out the best in all of those who enter our facility. Our team consists of psychiatrists and licensed therapists who are experienced in treating adolescents, teens and adults with various neurological and behavioral conditions. Psychotherapy provided in my office is mandatory, along with medication if required. We are an Intensive Outpatient Facility where we do accept insurance only when psychotherapy is agreed upon for teens and adults. Teens, adults and their families are welcome to participate in our successful treatment model.
![Photo of Taslim Zaman, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ee9e88a-4bf3-4d4c-9d4b-238cc46ea77a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). I address conditions from both a Lifestyle AND Medical perspective compared to most physicians who focus often on solely a medical perspective. I have experience treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Trauma, Personality Disorders, Obsessions & Compulsions, Insomnia, Psychosis, and more. My treatments comprise of Wellness & Nutritional Advice, Meditation, Psychotherapy, and Osteopathic Treatments. I offer evidence-based Psychedelic-Assisted-Psychotherapy (with Ketamine).
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). I address conditions from both a Lifestyle AND Medical perspective compared to most physicians who focus often on solely a medical perspective. I have experience treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Trauma, Personality Disorders, Obsessions & Compulsions, Insomnia, Psychosis, and more. My treatments comprise of Wellness & Nutritional Advice, Meditation, Psychotherapy, and Osteopathic Treatments. I offer evidence-based Psychedelic-Assisted-Psychotherapy (with Ketamine).
![Photo of Tiy Adams, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45190ae7-f555-40de-98fd-0607f916b994/1/320x400.jpeg)
To be well in today's world, we are encouraged to utilize all the tools available to us. There is so much information on wellness that we have access to, and each person's task is to find the best fit for their best quality of life. I hope that as your psychiatrist, I can work with you in finding the right treatment to support you as you do the tough work in creating balance in your life. My goal is to make your self-care a priority and provide sound medical advice grounded in evidence-based medicine. Psychiatry is a science, but caring for you is an art.
To be well in today's world, we are encouraged to utilize all the tools available to us. There is so much information on wellness that we have access to, and each person's task is to find the best fit for their best quality of life. I hope that as your psychiatrist, I can work with you in finding the right treatment to support you as you do the tough work in creating balance in your life. My goal is to make your self-care a priority and provide sound medical advice grounded in evidence-based medicine. Psychiatry is a science, but caring for you is an art.
![Photo of Amy Bush, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/729976d0-d962-44f0-a50c-2154677e1d64/1/320x400.jpeg)
There is no set approach to mental health care, individualized care is a key component to successful treatment. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals seeking inner peace. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey. The goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
There is no set approach to mental health care, individualized care is a key component to successful treatment. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals seeking inner peace. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey. The goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90b49382-72e5-4d2c-b87c-08a3af26b0f5/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Dr. Jacob D Buinewicz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1541d2c3-10e3-4db7-b79c-be3f899f4e0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified General Psychiatrist and a Fellowship Trained Addiction Psychiatrist who is capable of treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions. I graduated from Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and then completed a 4-year residency training program in general psychiatry and 1-year fellowship in addiction psychiatry. I've worked with a wide variety of patients. I also have extensive work experience with young adults and career focused individuals who are experiencing psychiatric symptoms.
I am a Board Certified General Psychiatrist and a Fellowship Trained Addiction Psychiatrist who is capable of treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions. I graduated from Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and then completed a 4-year residency training program in general psychiatry and 1-year fellowship in addiction psychiatry. I've worked with a wide variety of patients. I also have extensive work experience with young adults and career focused individuals who are experiencing psychiatric symptoms.
![Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10ef0aec-5519-4aad-a9a7-4afcea995a0e/2/320x400.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 Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3b41ef3-aa24-42e4-9127-473388cff523/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Patricia M Allen, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5269ce80-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia M Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
My passion is serving those with addiction and mental health concerns. It is my goal to instill hope and provide the medical tools necessary to support the journey to wellness. I value being part of a passionate team working to bring best practices and innovation to our clients. It doesn’t get any better than doing what you love. The first half of my nursing career was spent in psychiatric mental health nursing. The second half led me to achieving my dream of becoming a nurse practitioner and earning a doctorate in nursing practice.
My passion is serving those with addiction and mental health concerns. It is my goal to instill hope and provide the medical tools necessary to support the journey to wellness. I value being part of a passionate team working to bring best practices and innovation to our clients. It doesn’t get any better than doing what you love. The first half of my nursing career was spent in psychiatric mental health nursing. The second half led me to achieving my dream of becoming a nurse practitioner and earning a doctorate in nursing practice.
![Photo of Dr. Eileen Kemether, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b96de597-642e-4cd3-a9b6-53714850f999/1/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a compassionate and knowledgeable healthcare professional at the time of significant illness, pain and suffering is most important. My efforts have been to give psychiatric care in such a manner. My practice of psychiatry has been open since May of 1996. I provide talk therapy and medication management as well as collaborate with psychologists and social workers to provide medication management for their patients. My practice includes general adult and geriatric psychiatry.
Finding a compassionate and knowledgeable healthcare professional at the time of significant illness, pain and suffering is most important. My efforts have been to give psychiatric care in such a manner. My practice of psychiatry has been open since May of 1996. I provide talk therapy and medication management as well as collaborate with psychologists and social workers to provide medication management for their patients. My practice includes general adult and geriatric psychiatry.
![Photo of Taslim Zaman, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/987dd082-f542-4390-b856-3e57481a3de6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). I address conditions from both a Lifestyle AND Medical perspective compared to most physicians who focus often on solely a medical perspective. I have experience treating Adhd, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Trauma, Personality Disorders, Obsessions & Compulsions, Insomnia, Psychosis, and more.
Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). I address conditions from both a Lifestyle AND Medical perspective compared to most physicians who focus often on solely a medical perspective. I have experience treating Adhd, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Trauma, Personality Disorders, Obsessions & Compulsions, Insomnia, Psychosis, and more.
![Photo of John Paul Gomez - Water Gap Wellness Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2ddab24-3966-4b74-9bc7-4800065dcad5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello - I invite you to reach out! Water Gap Wellness offers out patient appointments as well as intensive mental health and substance use treatment that requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Housing is available upon request. Included are weekly sessions with me or one of our other psychiatrists, two sessions with your primary therapist per week, and ongoing daily group sessions. Call us today - we are here for you.
Hello - I invite you to reach out! Water Gap Wellness offers out patient appointments as well as intensive mental health and substance use treatment that requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Housing is available upon request. Included are weekly sessions with me or one of our other psychiatrists, two sessions with your primary therapist per week, and ongoing daily group sessions. Call us today - we are here for you.
![Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11a184cb-678b-42d4-bb69-5ca79020297a/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 Biju Basil, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439b3ba1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr.Basil is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who practices in Yardley PA. He specializes in the treatment of different Mental Health Conditions including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, ADHD, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Substance abuse, Dual Diagnosis disorders,
Dr.Basil is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who practices in Yardley PA. He specializes in the treatment of different Mental Health Conditions including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, ADHD, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Substance abuse, Dual Diagnosis disorders,
Accepting New Clients - Age range 12yrs to Adult. I have been in filed of treating mental health disorders for 20 + years as a psychiatrist. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve more of what they want in their life by providing the best care for their mental health. I provide in person and Telehealth Psychiatric appointments.
Accepting New Clients - Age range 12yrs to Adult. I have been in filed of treating mental health disorders for 20 + years as a psychiatrist. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve more of what they want in their life by providing the best care for their mental health. I provide in person and Telehealth Psychiatric appointments.
![Photo of Ashley Womack, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb0c5f95-05ce-40a8-8e01-dca2f101abde/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Ashley, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have experience treating various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. I have been working in the mental health field for eight years. I started my career as an Associate degree registered nurse in geriatric psychiatry. Later, I completed my undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Wilmington University. I have worked in the crisis and inpatient adult behavioral healthcare settings at my local community hospital, providing acute psychiatric care to patients across the lifespan.
I'm Ashley, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have experience treating various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. I have been working in the mental health field for eight years. I started my career as an Associate degree registered nurse in geriatric psychiatry. Later, I completed my undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Wilmington University. I have worked in the crisis and inpatient adult behavioral healthcare settings at my local community hospital, providing acute psychiatric care to patients across the lifespan.
![Photo of Chikodili Obi, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/899b3520-f5d4-4d23-83ac-e450db3743bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chikodili Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18902 (Online Only)
Great to meet you! Chikodili Obi is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated from Wilkes University. She is enthusiastic about providing quality, evidence based psychiatric care across the life span. Chikodili possesses strong clinical skills necessary to establish and build relationships with patients She specializes in treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, psychosis and mood disorders.
Great to meet you! Chikodili Obi is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated from Wilkes University. She is enthusiastic about providing quality, evidence based psychiatric care across the life span. Chikodili possesses strong clinical skills necessary to establish and build relationships with patients She specializes in treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, psychosis and mood disorders.
![Photo of Katrina Shchupak, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07898a54-7db4-43d6-bdc7-1cd1d5b4af20/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatrist with a focus on integrative care. I believe in treating the person as a whole, rather than a cluster of symptoms to simply medicate. It is impossible to truly address emotional needs if attention is not paid to the human complexity behind them. I am also a strong believer in the importance of lifestyle modification as a part of meaningful psychiatric treatment - we cannot simply take a pill and feel better if we are not also addressing a healthy functioning of our bodies. This includes treating vitamin/mineral deficiencies, adjusting dietary stressors, normalizing low hormone levels, etc.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist with a focus on integrative care. I believe in treating the person as a whole, rather than a cluster of symptoms to simply medicate. It is impossible to truly address emotional needs if attention is not paid to the human complexity behind them. I am also a strong believer in the importance of lifestyle modification as a part of meaningful psychiatric treatment - we cannot simply take a pill and feel better if we are not also addressing a healthy functioning of our bodies. This includes treating vitamin/mineral deficiencies, adjusting dietary stressors, normalizing low hormone levels, etc.
![Photo of Bobbie Posmontier, PhD, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4faf3d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bobbie Posmontier
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940 (Online Only)
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with expertise in psychotherapy, complementary modalities, and psychotropic medication support tailored to women across the lifespan. With my dual certification as both a nurse midwife and family psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a unique understanding of women’s psychiatric disorders related to hormonal and neurobiological imbalances from menarche through menopause such as premenstrual mood disorder, antenatal and postpartum mood disorders, as well as peri- and post-menopausal psychiatric disturbances. My goal is to partner with you to explore ways to help you achieve physical, mental and spiritual balance in your life
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with expertise in psychotherapy, complementary modalities, and psychotropic medication support tailored to women across the lifespan. With my dual certification as both a nurse midwife and family psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a unique understanding of women’s psychiatric disorders related to hormonal and neurobiological imbalances from menarche through menopause such as premenstrual mood disorder, antenatal and postpartum mood disorders, as well as peri- and post-menopausal psychiatric disturbances. My goal is to partner with you to explore ways to help you achieve physical, mental and spiritual balance in your life
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9403ba9-c2df-4c8c-a2b3-2e93a8fbe5f2/1/320x400.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 Warminster
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Warminster, PA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Warminster, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
25 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Other |
How Psychiatrists in Warminster, PA see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Warminster?
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.