Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, PA
Welcome to a dedicated space focused on fostering your personal well-being. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to providing support to young adults, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, as well as individuals of all ages, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. My practice encompasses a comprehensive approach to mental health, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD through a tailored blend of pharmacological intervention and psychotherapy. Our sessions are designed to offer a confidential and compassionate environment, facilitating self-exploration and personal g
Welcome to a dedicated space focused on fostering your personal well-being. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to providing support to young adults, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, as well as individuals of all ages, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. My practice encompasses a comprehensive approach to mental health, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD through a tailored blend of pharmacological intervention and psychotherapy. Our sessions are designed to offer a confidential and compassionate environment, facilitating self-exploration and personal g
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.
Double Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist providing psychotherapy, Medication Management and compassionate care to patients in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Two practice locations: Mainline Mental Health, LLC www.mainlinemh.com in Narberth, PA & Supreme Wellness, LLC www.supremewellnessrecovery.com in Newtown, PA which also provided Intensive Outpatient Treatment and Addiction Counseling to teens and adults. Our staff includes highly skilled licensed therapists who specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma-focused treatment.
Double Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist providing psychotherapy, Medication Management and compassionate care to patients in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Two practice locations: Mainline Mental Health, LLC www.mainlinemh.com in Narberth, PA & Supreme Wellness, LLC www.supremewellnessrecovery.com in Newtown, PA which also provided Intensive Outpatient Treatment and Addiction Counseling to teens and adults. Our staff includes highly skilled licensed therapists who specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma-focused treatment.
Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
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.
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.
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.
I believe that healing begins at the level of mind, body and spirit, integrating a patient’s whole life experience into the treatment plan. I provide comprehensive treatment options combining psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities. Working with me you will develop insight into yourself and begin to effect change and make progress in the problem areas of your life. I am ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry. In addition to treating addictions, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders; I specialize in women's mental health.
I believe that healing begins at the level of mind, body and spirit, integrating a patient’s whole life experience into the treatment plan. I provide comprehensive treatment options combining psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities. Working with me you will develop insight into yourself and begin to effect change and make progress in the problem areas of your life. I am ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry. In addition to treating addictions, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders; I specialize in women's mental health.
In my private practice, I help people to achieve abstinence and provide tools for them to begin and maintain recovery from their addictions. Treatment includes: relapse prevention, addiction focused psychotherapy, family interventions, medications as needed, referrals for other forms of treatment.
In my private practice, I help people to achieve abstinence and provide tools for them to begin and maintain recovery from their addictions. Treatment includes: relapse prevention, addiction focused psychotherapy, family interventions, medications as needed, referrals for other forms of treatment.
Amber Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, APN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Conshohocken, PA 19428 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients in PA, NJ, FL, & MI- Telehealth Only. Please send us an email! I am a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner through AANP, and I graduated from Frontier Nursing University with my MSN & Drexel University for my BSN. I provide mental health care & wellness to clients. I have practiced in various mental health areas with 10+ years of experience providing care to children through geriatrics. I’ve always had a passion for the mental health specialty in caring for clients and providing positive client outcomes for themselves as well as their families. I make a great effort to provide safe client care.
Currently accepting new patients in PA, NJ, FL, & MI- Telehealth Only. Please send us an email! I am a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner through AANP, and I graduated from Frontier Nursing University with my MSN & Drexel University for my BSN. I provide mental health care & wellness to clients. I have practiced in various mental health areas with 10+ years of experience providing care to children through geriatrics. I’ve always had a passion for the mental health specialty in caring for clients and providing positive client outcomes for themselves as well as their families. I make a great effort to provide safe client care.
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.
The focus of my work is healing, not only mental, but also spiritual and emotional, so that one can reach their full potential. I work with clients of all ages. Having trained at CHOP and Tufts University, I incorporate evidence-based medicine and the latest research in the fields of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when I practice. I work with almost all psychiatric disorders, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I am taking new patients at this time and either myself or someone in my practice is usually available to see a new client within four weeks.
The focus of my work is healing, not only mental, but also spiritual and emotional, so that one can reach their full potential. I work with clients of all ages. Having trained at CHOP and Tufts University, I incorporate evidence-based medicine and the latest research in the fields of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when I practice. I work with almost all psychiatric disorders, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I am taking new patients at this time and either myself or someone in my practice is usually available to see a new client within four weeks.
Tiffany Daye-Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Dr. Daye-Lee believes in a holistic treatment approach based on evidence-based practice and patient centered-care. She believes in meeting the needs of each patient individually to help improve their quality of life.
Dr. Daye-Lee believes in a holistic treatment approach based on evidence-based practice and patient centered-care. She believes in meeting the needs of each patient individually to help improve their quality of life.
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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.
I am a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism in children and adults. I have additional experience treating individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, medical causes of psychiatric illness, and co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions. I regularly treat student-athletes, and gifted students and have helped many people transition through many stages and positions in life. I also have experience helping people in the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism in children and adults. I have additional experience treating individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, medical causes of psychiatric illness, and co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions. I regularly treat student-athletes, and gifted students and have helped many people transition through many stages and positions in life. I also have experience helping people in the LGBTQ+ community.
Dr. Gilman is a board certiï¬ed psychiatrist and lifetime Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. She has over 38 years of experience in adult, geriatric and consultation-liaison psychiatry. She graduated from Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed her psychiatry training at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (TJUH); and she has also postgraduate training at the Philadelphia Association of Psychoanalysis. She has been a medical director of several institutions including Fairmont Institute, Kirkbride Institute and Roxborough Memorial Hospital.
Dr. Gilman is a board certiï¬ed psychiatrist and lifetime Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. She has over 38 years of experience in adult, geriatric and consultation-liaison psychiatry. She graduated from Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed her psychiatry training at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (TJUH); and she has also postgraduate training at the Philadelphia Association of Psychoanalysis. She has been a medical director of several institutions including Fairmont Institute, Kirkbride Institute and Roxborough Memorial Hospital.
Hi! My name is Marja M.Evenden, and I am an ABPN -certified psychiatrist in Philadelphia area. In addition to hospital work, I am also treating private patients. I would like to offer my extensive professional training, in the U.S. and in Europe, to help you feel better and improve the quality of life. Some of my special interests are: diagnostics and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, biological psychiatry/biomarkers, dual diagnoses, ADHD and low dose benzodiazepine dependence. By training I am well rounded to master the whole spectrum of psychiatric treatment types. I believe strongly in personalized medicine.
Hi! My name is Marja M.Evenden, and I am an ABPN -certified psychiatrist in Philadelphia area. In addition to hospital work, I am also treating private patients. I would like to offer my extensive professional training, in the U.S. and in Europe, to help you feel better and improve the quality of life. Some of my special interests are: diagnostics and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, biological psychiatry/biomarkers, dual diagnoses, ADHD and low dose benzodiazepine dependence. By training I am well rounded to master the whole spectrum of psychiatric treatment types. I believe strongly in personalized medicine.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Inspire Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Inspire Behavioral Health is a private psychiatry practice serving clients across the lifespan seeking to improve and maintain their emotional well-being. Offering both therapy and medication management services, our philosophy and mission are rooted in understanding you as an individual in the context of your past experiences, current family and professional lives, goals, as well as aspirations. We look forward to building the therapeutic support team that accompanies you on your journey towards a better you!
Inspire Behavioral Health is a private psychiatry practice serving clients across the lifespan seeking to improve and maintain their emotional well-being. Offering both therapy and medication management services, our philosophy and mission are rooted in understanding you as an individual in the context of your past experiences, current family and professional lives, goals, as well as aspirations. We look forward to building the therapeutic support team that accompanies you on your journey towards a better you!
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.
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
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.
See more therapy options for Montgomery County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, PA
100+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, PA who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, PA see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Montgomery County?
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.