Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
Andrew Renzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , CRNP, RN
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19148
At the heart of our mental health practice is Andrew Renzi PMHNP-BC, a dedicated and empathetic Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and a deeply compassionate approach to his work. He believes in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms, and takes the time to truly listen and understand each patient's unique experiences and challenges. Andrews warm demeanor and non-judgmental attitude create a safe, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable opening up and exploring their mental health concerns. As a board-certified PMHNP, Andrew offers a comprehensive range of psyc
At the heart of our mental health practice is Andrew Renzi PMHNP-BC, a dedicated and empathetic Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and a deeply compassionate approach to his work. He believes in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms, and takes the time to truly listen and understand each patient's unique experiences and challenges. Andrews warm demeanor and non-judgmental attitude create a safe, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable opening up and exploring their mental health concerns. As a board-certified PMHNP, Andrew offers a comprehensive range of psyc
Shraddha Jani, MD, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Not accepting new clients
I understand that having a good rapport with your psychiatrist is as important as the treatment itself. My aim is to help individuals explore their feelings to overcome the obstacles that lie in the way of gaining acceptance of themselves and reaching their goals. You may feel reluctant asking others for help, especially when it involves discussing personal issues with someone you barely know. I provide a brief telephone consultation at no charge to help new patients find out if we are a right fit.
I understand that having a good rapport with your psychiatrist is as important as the treatment itself. My aim is to help individuals explore their feelings to overcome the obstacles that lie in the way of gaining acceptance of themselves and reaching their goals. You may feel reluctant asking others for help, especially when it involves discussing personal issues with someone you barely know. I provide a brief telephone consultation at no charge to help new patients find out if we are a right fit.
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, B-C
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
I am a fellowship-trained Addiction Psychiatrist offering virtual appointments for patients in Pennsylvania and in-person appointments for patients in Philadelphia. I have a special interest in working with individuals with co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders, and have extensive clinical experience treating a full range of psychiatric and substance use disorder diagnoses. I practice using a harm-reductionist approach and strive to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their goals, work through resistance, and develop motivation for behavioral change.
I am a fellowship-trained Addiction Psychiatrist offering virtual appointments for patients in Pennsylvania and in-person appointments for patients in Philadelphia. I have a special interest in working with individuals with co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders, and have extensive clinical experience treating a full range of psychiatric and substance use disorder diagnoses. I practice using a harm-reductionist approach and strive to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their goals, work through resistance, and develop motivation for behavioral change.
As board certified mental health providers at Philadelphia Better Stories Psychiatry, we want to help you destress and improve your quality life with our years of experience and expertise in treating patients with a broad range of mental health disorders. Your care involves us working together, you provide your life experiences and perspective, we use our skills and experience in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Together we will create a treatment plan that we agree will help you reduce your symptoms and yield a greater quality of life.
As board certified mental health providers at Philadelphia Better Stories Psychiatry, we want to help you destress and improve your quality life with our years of experience and expertise in treating patients with a broad range of mental health disorders. Your care involves us working together, you provide your life experiences and perspective, we use our skills and experience in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Together we will create a treatment plan that we agree will help you reduce your symptoms and yield a greater quality of life.
Leon Cushenberry, MD Leon Cushenberry is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. He completed medical school at the University of California, Davis and psychiatry residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. Afterwards, he completed additional training at the University of Pennsylvania as a Public Psychiatry Fellow which allowed him to understand the impact of an individual's community and social factors on their lived experiences.
Leon Cushenberry, MD Leon Cushenberry is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. He completed medical school at the University of California, Davis and psychiatry residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. Afterwards, he completed additional training at the University of Pennsylvania as a Public Psychiatry Fellow which allowed him to understand the impact of an individual's community and social factors on their lived experiences.
I like to think I am best suited for treating individuals who are very sensitive and want more out of their lives, those who are seeking a deeper, richer life than where they find themselves currently. Identifying and changing those things that block emotional satisfaction is something patients and I work together on. Doing this allows my patients to make better emotional contact with themselves, with their loved ones and their life's work. I like to help patients identify what is healthy and what is unhealthy in their emotional and physical lives. Establishing genuine contact with my patients is the hallmark of psychotherapy.
I like to think I am best suited for treating individuals who are very sensitive and want more out of their lives, those who are seeking a deeper, richer life than where they find themselves currently. Identifying and changing those things that block emotional satisfaction is something patients and I work together on. Doing this allows my patients to make better emotional contact with themselves, with their loved ones and their life's work. I like to help patients identify what is healthy and what is unhealthy in their emotional and physical lives. Establishing genuine contact with my patients is the hallmark of psychotherapy.
Lori A. Albright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
Dr. Inkles is a psychiatrist who has a background in pediatric medicine and who completed his pediatric residency at Nassau County Medical Center, New York. He then completed adult, child and adolescent psychiatry residencies at the Medical College of Pennsylvania. He has been on the faculty of the Drexel University College of Medicine and Saint Christopher's Hospital for Children. Dr. Inkles' approach to his work involves a psychodynamic model, employing a number of various psychodynamic approaches, which in turn, would help him best understand his patients, and help them.
Dr. Inkles is a psychiatrist who has a background in pediatric medicine and who completed his pediatric residency at Nassau County Medical Center, New York. He then completed adult, child and adolescent psychiatry residencies at the Medical College of Pennsylvania. He has been on the faculty of the Drexel University College of Medicine and Saint Christopher's Hospital for Children. Dr. Inkles' approach to his work involves a psychodynamic model, employing a number of various psychodynamic approaches, which in turn, would help him best understand his patients, and help them.
Jeffrey Shralow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CRNP, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with an MSN degree from the University of Pennsylvania. I also hold a Master's degree in Buddhist Studies from Naropa University. I offer harm reduction psychiatric symptom management and psychotherapy. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma related distress, I will offer you a path to healing. My therapeutic work is grounded in Jungian, psychodynamic, humanistic, and ecological and Buddhist perspectives. My therapeutic style is genuine and open, with focus toward growth and actualization.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with an MSN degree from the University of Pennsylvania. I also hold a Master's degree in Buddhist Studies from Naropa University. I offer harm reduction psychiatric symptom management and psychotherapy. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma related distress, I will offer you a path to healing. My therapeutic work is grounded in Jungian, psychodynamic, humanistic, and ecological and Buddhist perspectives. My therapeutic style is genuine and open, with focus toward growth and actualization.
Do you feel worried, stressed, or stuck by a particular issue or in general? Have you noticed a pattern of experiences in life that you'd like help with? Does it affect your work or relationships? Have you had other treatments that have left you feeling that some underlying issue has not been fully addressed? Empathic and kind listening & exploration, alongside personal experience & growth may be necessary. My patients tend to be intelligent & sensitive, but come in struggling or unhappy in their lives. They have become aware of the same issues presenting over & over again.
Do you feel worried, stressed, or stuck by a particular issue or in general? Have you noticed a pattern of experiences in life that you'd like help with? Does it affect your work or relationships? Have you had other treatments that have left you feeling that some underlying issue has not been fully addressed? Empathic and kind listening & exploration, alongside personal experience & growth may be necessary. My patients tend to be intelligent & sensitive, but come in struggling or unhappy in their lives. They have become aware of the same issues presenting over & over again.
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As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
Dr. Mark Carey is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2024. Dr. Carey strives to create a safe environment and offers empathic support for all patients on their mental health journey. He enjoys collaboratively working with patients to identify areas of focus to then tailor a treatment plan specific to the individual. Beyond just an expertise in medication management, Dr. Carey also offers a holistic approach that incorporates therapy and lifestyle modifications to successfully address a patient’s needs. Outside of work, Dr.
Dr. Mark Carey is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2024. Dr. Carey strives to create a safe environment and offers empathic support for all patients on their mental health journey. He enjoys collaboratively working with patients to identify areas of focus to then tailor a treatment plan specific to the individual. Beyond just an expertise in medication management, Dr. Carey also offers a holistic approach that incorporates therapy and lifestyle modifications to successfully address a patient’s needs. Outside of work, Dr.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is an FDA-Approved (2008) treatment for patients suffering from treatment resistant major depression, offering an alternative to treatment resistant medication. TMS is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare. The TMS protocol offered at Spark TMS is established for the patient under the direct supervision of Andrew Peshek, M.D. Dr. Peshek has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry. He obtained his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, and then completed his residency and fellowship at The University of Pennsylvania.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is an FDA-Approved (2008) treatment for patients suffering from treatment resistant major depression, offering an alternative to treatment resistant medication. TMS is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare. The TMS protocol offered at Spark TMS is established for the patient under the direct supervision of Andrew Peshek, M.D. Dr. Peshek has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry. He obtained his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, and then completed his residency and fellowship at The University of Pennsylvania.
Hi, All. I’m Charles. Do you find that your family and friends don’t understand what you are going through? Do you feel like you are spinning your wheels and unable to complete your tasks at school or work? Or are you holding it together for everyone else but feel like anxiety is making you unravel? Perhaps you feel like you are down and disinterested in what you used to do. I know that it is hard to pull it together by ourselves sometimes.
Hi, All. I’m Charles. Do you find that your family and friends don’t understand what you are going through? Do you feel like you are spinning your wheels and unable to complete your tasks at school or work? Or are you holding it together for everyone else but feel like anxiety is making you unravel? Perhaps you feel like you are down and disinterested in what you used to do. I know that it is hard to pull it together by ourselves sometimes.
Dr. Stephanie Cross
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Waitlist for new clients
The journey to emotional well-being can be a challenge, is an ever evolving process, and our goals for treatment vary over the lifespan. Dr. Cross is a UPenn trained adult psychiatrist, with a private practice located in Philadelphia, and is available to help you on your mental health journey. She has an exceptional training background, with additional experience working with older adults and medically complex individuals. She takes a holistic mind-body approach to treatment, and works to build a safe space for exploration and healing.
The journey to emotional well-being can be a challenge, is an ever evolving process, and our goals for treatment vary over the lifespan. Dr. Cross is a UPenn trained adult psychiatrist, with a private practice located in Philadelphia, and is available to help you on your mental health journey. She has an exceptional training background, with additional experience working with older adults and medically complex individuals. She takes a holistic mind-body approach to treatment, and works to build a safe space for exploration and healing.
Katelin Crane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist who practices holistically, interweaving traditional psychiatric interventions (therapy and medications) with an evidence based understanding of hormones, supplements, stress issues, and more. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. I also utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV and DUTCH tests, to provide a more comprehensive approach for you.
Elizabeth Milburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I love working with any individual 18 and older who is experiencing difficulty with their mental well-being. My services include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and meds + supportive therapy. I am an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community. I encourage folks to be active collaborators in their treatment. I am happy to now offer medication treatment for opioid use disorder.
I love working with any individual 18 and older who is experiencing difficulty with their mental well-being. My services include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and meds + supportive therapy. I am an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community. I encourage folks to be active collaborators in their treatment. I am happy to now offer medication treatment for opioid use disorder.
Expertise in Psychopharmacology and Medication Management
Expertise in Psychopharmacology and Medication Management
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
200+
Average cost per session
$220
Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Philadelphia?
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.