Psychiatrists in Willow Grove, PA

Photo of Ife Ajuwon - Ife Ajuwon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ife Ajuwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about working with clients to improve their quality of life as it relates to their mental health. I believe in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowering my patients, and proactive and timely pharmacological and psychitherapeutic interventions. My mission at Psychtitude NP is to treat you in a therapeutic, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment while following evidence-based guidelines as well as clinical experience.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about working with clients to improve their quality of life as it relates to their mental health. I believe in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowering my patients, and proactive and timely pharmacological and psychitherapeutic interventions. My mission at Psychtitude NP is to treat you in a therapeutic, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment while following evidence-based guidelines as well as clinical experience.
(267) 490-4684 View (267) 490-4684
Photo of William J Lorman, PhD, MSN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
William J Lorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willow Grove, PA 19090
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a psychoanalyst, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a psychoanalyst, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
(267) 367-4904 View (267) 367-4904
Photo of Alexandria Dougherty - Complete Mind Care, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Complete Mind Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with almost 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. I was called to work in psychiatric care from an early age, entering nursing specifically to practice in psychiatry after obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. I aim to understand my patients' symptoms and the root of their aliments, in order to provide the most appropriate care. In addition to medication management, I have been trained in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, as an alternative treatment modality.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with almost 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. I was called to work in psychiatric care from an early age, entering nursing specifically to practice in psychiatry after obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. I aim to understand my patients' symptoms and the root of their aliments, in order to provide the most appropriate care. In addition to medication management, I have been trained in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, as an alternative treatment modality.
(215) 767-7444 View (215) 767-7444
Photo of Ajeetha Doss - Dr. Doss M.D., at Feel Good Behavioral Health, MD , MRCPsyc, Psychiatrist
Dr. Doss M.D., at Feel Good Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD , MRCPsyc
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090  (Online Only)
I am committed to providing high quality of care in a safe and comfortable environment, to meet your mental health needs via Feel Good Behavioral Health. You being the most important team member, my focus is to have a good therapeutic relationship by treating You with Respect, Honesty & Compassion. I am 3 times board-certified in General Adult, as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, after being trained in different countries including United States, United Kingdom & India. As a mental health advocate, my primary goal is to promote overall emotional and mental health well-being, as well as better quality of life for my patients.
I am committed to providing high quality of care in a safe and comfortable environment, to meet your mental health needs via Feel Good Behavioral Health. You being the most important team member, my focus is to have a good therapeutic relationship by treating You with Respect, Honesty & Compassion. I am 3 times board-certified in General Adult, as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, after being trained in different countries including United States, United Kingdom & India. As a mental health advocate, my primary goal is to promote overall emotional and mental health well-being, as well as better quality of life for my patients.
(267) 682-6908 View (267) 682-6908
Photo of Mary Kathryn (Kathy) Corcoran, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Kathryn (Kathy) Corcoran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090  (Online Only)
It’s difficult enough to struggle with depression and anxiety; it should be easy to find a competent, caring psychiatric specialist to help. I strive to help you recover from these and other conditions affecting your emotional health, relationships, and functioning. My patients tell me that they appreciate my emphasis on taking the time to listen to their concerns, my interactive and comprehensive approach to assessing and treating their conditions, and the education I provide about their specific diagnosis and medication. ***ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE CURRENTLY VIRTUAL - via Doxy.me***
It’s difficult enough to struggle with depression and anxiety; it should be easy to find a competent, caring psychiatric specialist to help. I strive to help you recover from these and other conditions affecting your emotional health, relationships, and functioning. My patients tell me that they appreciate my emphasis on taking the time to listen to their concerns, my interactive and comprehensive approach to assessing and treating their conditions, and the education I provide about their specific diagnosis and medication. ***ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE CURRENTLY VIRTUAL - via Doxy.me***
(267) 494-0627 View (267) 494-0627

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Richard Yudell - Complete Mind Care of Pa , MD, Psychiatrist
Complete Mind Care of Pa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Abington, PA 19001  (Online Only)
Dr. Richard Yudell is a licensed psychiatrist with 41 years of experience. He received his medical degree from Universitat di Bologna Facolta di Medicina e Chirurgia in Bologna, Italy. After medical school, he completed his residency at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is currently affiliated with Friends Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dr. Yudell association with Complete Mind Care of PA allows him to work with CMC of PA providers to help diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
Dr. Richard Yudell is a licensed psychiatrist with 41 years of experience. He received his medical degree from Universitat di Bologna Facolta di Medicina e Chirurgia in Bologna, Italy. After medical school, he completed his residency at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is currently affiliated with Friends Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dr. Yudell association with Complete Mind Care of PA allows him to work with CMC of PA providers to help diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
(215) 767-7444 View (215) 767-7444
Photo of Danielle Giuliano, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Giuliano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Abington, PA 19001
Everyone’s journey with mental health is not the same, so it’s important to have a personalized treatment plan, to fit each individual’s need. Often times, patients I work with have only ever been offered medication as the solution to their symptoms. I recognize the value in medication management, while also being an advocate for alternate therapies, such as TMS and esketamine. I believe it is important to establish an honest and trustworthy relationship, to ensure optimal quality care, through effective and safe approaches to care.
Everyone’s journey with mental health is not the same, so it’s important to have a personalized treatment plan, to fit each individual’s need. Often times, patients I work with have only ever been offered medication as the solution to their symptoms. I recognize the value in medication management, while also being an advocate for alternate therapies, such as TMS and esketamine. I believe it is important to establish an honest and trustworthy relationship, to ensure optimal quality care, through effective and safe approaches to care.
(215) 767-2777 View (215) 767-2777
Photo of Amy Szajna, PhD, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Szajna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abington, PA 19001
Welcome! I am a Licensed Nurse Practitioner, board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health. I am passionate about helping individuals improve their mental health and well-being through holistic, client-centered care. I offer personalized mental health services including psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy and evidence-based complementary and alternative therapies based on the client's individual goals.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Nurse Practitioner, board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health. I am passionate about helping individuals improve their mental health and well-being through holistic, client-centered care. I offer personalized mental health services including psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy and evidence-based complementary and alternative therapies based on the client's individual goals.
(267) 459-3499 View (267) 459-3499
Photo of Samuel Stevenson, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samuel Stevenson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Abington, PA 19001
With two years of professional experience, Samuel Stevenson, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC, has developed a deep expertise in psychiatric mental health. His clinical practice spans comprehensive medication management and psychotherapy for a variety of mental health conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression. Samuel has worked in diverse settings, which has enabled him to refine his approach to care, ensuring that it is both evidence-based and tailored to the individual needs of his patients.
With two years of professional experience, Samuel Stevenson, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC, has developed a deep expertise in psychiatric mental health. His clinical practice spans comprehensive medication management and psychotherapy for a variety of mental health conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression. Samuel has worked in diverse settings, which has enabled him to refine his approach to care, ensuring that it is both evidence-based and tailored to the individual needs of his patients.
(484) 353-6037 View (484) 353-6037
Photo of Saundra Hyman, DNP, CRNP, MSN/MEd, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Saundra Hyman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, MSN/MEd, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hatboro, PA 19040
I am a Doctorate prepared Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. I saw a need for better mental health services. I attended University of Cincinnati and became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to strengthen and improve the lives of our clients by delivering exceptional mental health care tailored to meet their needs, and to educate our community about mental health and mental illness while working to eliminate stigma, labels and prejudice. I am dedicated to helping individuals lead mentally healthy lives. I believe that to achieve optimal health we must make a commitment to care for mind, body, and spirit.
I am a Doctorate prepared Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. I saw a need for better mental health services. I attended University of Cincinnati and became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to strengthen and improve the lives of our clients by delivering exceptional mental health care tailored to meet their needs, and to educate our community about mental health and mental illness while working to eliminate stigma, labels and prejudice. I am dedicated to helping individuals lead mentally healthy lives. I believe that to achieve optimal health we must make a commitment to care for mind, body, and spirit.
(215) 544-2391 View (215) 544-2391
Photo of Lacy Clayton, DNP, CRNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lacy Clayton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
Waitlist for new clients
At this time Lacy Clayton Wellness is at full capacity. You may reach out via our website to be added to our waitlist. Thank you. Hello, I'm Lacy and I am glad you are here. Are you looking for a medication provider who considers you as an individual? Listening, compassion, understanding, and clinical expertise are the cornerstones of my practice. It is a privilege to be part of someone’s mental health care and my promise to you is to make every effort to ensure you feel heard, supported, and actively engaged in your health care. I value getting to know you as an individual and tailoring a treatment plan specifically for you.
At this time Lacy Clayton Wellness is at full capacity. You may reach out via our website to be added to our waitlist. Thank you. Hello, I'm Lacy and I am glad you are here. Are you looking for a medication provider who considers you as an individual? Listening, compassion, understanding, and clinical expertise are the cornerstones of my practice. It is a privilege to be part of someone’s mental health care and my promise to you is to make every effort to ensure you feel heard, supported, and actively engaged in your health care. I value getting to know you as an individual and tailoring a treatment plan specifically for you.
(215) 999-4562 View (215) 999-4562
Photo of Irene Hurford, MD, Psychiatrist
Irene Hurford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abington, PA 19001
MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL. I DO NOT ACCEPT INSURANCE. I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of individuals struggling to make sense of themselves, and their place in their life and in the world. I have worked for many years with individuals with psychosis, which has taught me to respect our innately human ability to construct narratives of our experiences, and the power of narrative to define our sense of purpose. I work with individuals who want to create lasting change in their lives and bring meaning back to their life story.
MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL. I DO NOT ACCEPT INSURANCE. I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of individuals struggling to make sense of themselves, and their place in their life and in the world. I have worked for many years with individuals with psychosis, which has taught me to respect our innately human ability to construct narratives of our experiences, and the power of narrative to define our sense of purpose. I work with individuals who want to create lasting change in their lives and bring meaning back to their life story.
(267) 415-8517 View (267) 415-8517
Photo of Sudha Jairaj, MD, Psychiatrist
Sudha Jairaj
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Abington, PA 19001  (Online Only)
Dr. Jairaj is an established and highly skilled psychiatrist with over 44 years of practice experience, having worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. While she has extensive experience in understanding medication dosing and drug interactions, she provides holistic treatments, to ensure optimal patient care. Dr. Jairaj's passion is driven by the bonds she builds with her patients and the enjoyment she holds in keeping them healthy and well.
Dr. Jairaj is an established and highly skilled psychiatrist with over 44 years of practice experience, having worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. While she has extensive experience in understanding medication dosing and drug interactions, she provides holistic treatments, to ensure optimal patient care. Dr. Jairaj's passion is driven by the bonds she builds with her patients and the enjoyment she holds in keeping them healthy and well.
(215) 888-8791 View (215) 888-8791
Photo of Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
Accepting clients with Aetna, Capital Blue Cross, and Cigna! As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication management for treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PMDD, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, among other conditions for ages 18 to 65. During the 60 minute initial evaluation, we will discuss history and symptoms to gain clarity on diagnosis to guide our treatment plan moving forward. During the 30 minute follow ups, we will discuss medication efficacy, side effects and risks/benefits in continuing medications. Please visit my website at impakpsychiatry.com.
Accepting clients with Aetna, Capital Blue Cross, and Cigna! As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric medication management for treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PMDD, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, among other conditions for ages 18 to 65. During the 60 minute initial evaluation, we will discuss history and symptoms to gain clarity on diagnosis to guide our treatment plan moving forward. During the 30 minute follow ups, we will discuss medication efficacy, side effects and risks/benefits in continuing medications. Please visit my website at impakpsychiatry.com.
(267) 214-5505 View (267) 214-5505
Photo of Venkat Chakkaravarthi, MD, Psychiatrist
Venkat Chakkaravarthi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Abington, PA 19001  (Online Only)
Visit our website for fees, services & to book an appointment. Dr. Venkat Chakkaravarthi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. He provides medication management and therapy services. Virtual appointments are available for patients who are physically located at the time of their appointment in Pennsylvania only (this means, you do not need to be living in these states).
Visit our website for fees, services & to book an appointment. Dr. Venkat Chakkaravarthi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. He provides medication management and therapy services. Virtual appointments are available for patients who are physically located at the time of their appointment in Pennsylvania only (this means, you do not need to be living in these states).
(215) 798-5476 View (215) 798-5476
Photo of Jenika Miles, DNP , APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenika Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hatboro, PA 19040  (Online Only)
I have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Temple University where I graduated with honors. I've worked as a family nurse practitioner caring for at-risk, underserved patient populations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. When I recognized that there was a great need for psychiatric services in my area, I decided to attend Wilkes University and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to expand upon the clinical care I could provide. My goal is to provide a personalized psychiatric medication management experience for every patient in my practice.
I have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Temple University where I graduated with honors. I've worked as a family nurse practitioner caring for at-risk, underserved patient populations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. When I recognized that there was a great need for psychiatric services in my area, I decided to attend Wilkes University and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to expand upon the clinical care I could provide. My goal is to provide a personalized psychiatric medication management experience for every patient in my practice.
(610) 379-1910 View (610) 379-1910
Photo of Patricia M Allen, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia M Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Horsham, PA 19044
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.
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.
(215) 709-8320 View (215) 709-8320
Photo of Sharon R Katz, FPMHNP, CNS, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sharon R Katz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, CNS, CRNP
Verified Verified
Abington, PA 19001
Have you been frustrated with not being able to understand your thoughts or being able to talk to your psychiatric provider? Have a complex family, medical or mental health illness that has frustrated other providers? I am very experienced: 25 years of working as a nurse and marriage and family therapist combined with an additional 13 years of prescribing holistic and traditional medications resulting in significant experience seeing patients for significant mental illnesses, I work to keep patients healthy, prescribing holistic as well as traditional methods of psychiatry and focused on improving functioning at home and work.
Have you been frustrated with not being able to understand your thoughts or being able to talk to your psychiatric provider? Have a complex family, medical or mental health illness that has frustrated other providers? I am very experienced: 25 years of working as a nurse and marriage and family therapist combined with an additional 13 years of prescribing holistic and traditional medications resulting in significant experience seeing patients for significant mental illnesses, I work to keep patients healthy, prescribing holistic as well as traditional methods of psychiatry and focused on improving functioning at home and work.
(267) 762-2765 View (267) 762-2765
Photo of Frances Garbarino, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Frances Garbarino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
(215) 774-5651 View (215) 774-5651
Photo of Lindsey Wolf, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lindsey Wolf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Maple Glen, PA 19002  (Online Only)
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See more therapy options for Willow Grove

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Willow Grove, PA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Willow Grove, PA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Medication Management
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Bipolar Disorder
60% Psychosis

Average years in practice

23 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Highmark
75% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Willow Grove, PA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Willow Grove?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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