Psychiatrists in 11249
![Photo of Dr. Sima Christina Paul, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1868fb17-99e5-4c44-9387-1cabc6192da7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please go to headway.co NY, NJ. WI, PA residents; licensed in NJ, NY, PA, WI, and accept all insurances. I treat all psychiatric conditions and can do medication management and therapy. I can help you treat whatever symptoms you may have or recommended the best approach to improve the way you feel. I see adults and adolescents/child starting at age 5. you must first open an account at headway.co and search for my name as a provider. It is easy to schedule online via headway.co
Please go to headway.co NY, NJ. WI, PA residents; licensed in NJ, NY, PA, WI, and accept all insurances. I treat all psychiatric conditions and can do medication management and therapy. I can help you treat whatever symptoms you may have or recommended the best approach to improve the way you feel. I see adults and adolescents/child starting at age 5. you must first open an account at headway.co and search for my name as a provider. It is easy to schedule online via headway.co
![Photo of Shervin Parvizi Ravan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ea13da-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shervin Parvizi Ravan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249 (Online Only)
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
![Photo of Jenna Reeder — Brooklyn Integrative Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/113accdf-374a-492f-857c-5712832d4c38/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Reeder — Brooklyn Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I offer holistic and therapeutic psychiatry to help adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, and treatment-resistant depression identify and address the root causes of their mental health struggles. I also specialize in working in perinatal psychiatry and women. I specialize in supporting women's emotional well-being throughout the perinatal period, which includes the time before, during, and after childbirth. My treatment philosophy centers on a holistic, patient-centric approach, integrating medication management with psychotherapy, mindfulness, nutraceutical supplementation, sleep optimization, and lifestyle interventions.
I offer holistic and therapeutic psychiatry to help adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, and treatment-resistant depression identify and address the root causes of their mental health struggles. I also specialize in working in perinatal psychiatry and women. I specialize in supporting women's emotional well-being throughout the perinatal period, which includes the time before, during, and after childbirth. My treatment philosophy centers on a holistic, patient-centric approach, integrating medication management with psychotherapy, mindfulness, nutraceutical supplementation, sleep optimization, and lifestyle interventions.
![Photo of Dakota Thomas, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/418194e0-0a17-488e-b7f0-4dd5cc2928e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dakota Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years experience in healthcare. I treat many conditions, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and ADHD. My specialty is dealing with College, Graduate, and Professional students, however I enjoy working with adults of all ages. I routinely work with students from Columbia, NYU, and University of Miami. I also enjoy working with teens age 16 and above navigate their way through problems related to work, relationships, and life transitions, including cancer and other health related struggles and anxiety.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years experience in healthcare. I treat many conditions, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and ADHD. My specialty is dealing with College, Graduate, and Professional students, however I enjoy working with adults of all ages. I routinely work with students from Columbia, NYU, and University of Miami. I also enjoy working with teens age 16 and above navigate their way through problems related to work, relationships, and life transitions, including cancer and other health related struggles and anxiety.
![Photo of Anne Mongiello, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4b7f195-55d9-4c9e-aa1c-0b3876d96ef1/1/320x400.png)
Anne Mongiello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Anne Mongiello is a Board Certified Psychiatric NP who received clinical training through New York University. She has a person-centered and holistic treatment approach with an egalitarian style. Emphasis is placed on client empowerment and psychoeducation. She has extensive experience with psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. She highly values practicing transparency, intellectual honesty, and education to empower clients in a shared decision making model.
Anne Mongiello is a Board Certified Psychiatric NP who received clinical training through New York University. She has a person-centered and holistic treatment approach with an egalitarian style. Emphasis is placed on client empowerment and psychoeducation. She has extensive experience with psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy. She highly values practicing transparency, intellectual honesty, and education to empower clients in a shared decision making model.
![Photo of Holly L White, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c4014a3-da31-4c81-89cc-685f23b49bea/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for adults dealing with reproductive issues, specifically during the fertility journey, pregnancy, postpartum and early parenting. You are the authority on your goals, your life, and your story. I can offer up to date, practical information, flexibility and collaboration.
I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for adults dealing with reproductive issues, specifically during the fertility journey, pregnancy, postpartum and early parenting. You are the authority on your goals, your life, and your story. I can offer up to date, practical information, flexibility and collaboration.
![Photo of Mohammad (Mo) Tavakkoli, MD, MPH, MSc, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26f52aa1-62c0-4ca1-bbe9-cbf4350c2df6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mohammad (Mo) Tavakkoli
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MSc
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Tavakkoli is a New York-based, board-certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical, public health, and leadership experience. He is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University and is affiliated with Rockland Psychiatric Center. Dr. Tavakkoli has degrees in Medicine and Public Health from Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Global Health and Population from Harvard School of Public Health. He completed his psychiatry residency and chief residency at New York Medical College and has previously served as the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatry and Site Director for medical student edu
Dr. Tavakkoli is a New York-based, board-certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical, public health, and leadership experience. He is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University and is affiliated with Rockland Psychiatric Center. Dr. Tavakkoli has degrees in Medicine and Public Health from Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Global Health and Population from Harvard School of Public Health. He completed his psychiatry residency and chief residency at New York Medical College and has previously served as the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatry and Site Director for medical student edu
![Photo of Rachel Eakley, PMHNP, RN-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/746e194d-91e2-43ff-aa41-817620652c77/7/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Eakley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Not accepting new clients
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing individual psychotherapy and medication management for adults and children with mental health needs. I have experience working with clients across a broad spectrum of diagnoses, age groups, and needs. I have a special interest in supporting individuals through times of transition, such as marriage, pregnancy, new parenthood, college, loss, and separation.
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing individual psychotherapy and medication management for adults and children with mental health needs. I have experience working with clients across a broad spectrum of diagnoses, age groups, and needs. I have a special interest in supporting individuals through times of transition, such as marriage, pregnancy, new parenthood, college, loss, and separation.
![Photo of Meg Ryan, PMHNP, IBCLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3295d12f-647c-4ddf-9efa-02db9335c916/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I'm Meg and I’m a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a nurse with 8 years of experience in perinatal and pediatric settings, I specialize in providing comprehensive care for adults navigating reproductive challenges, particularly during the fertility journey, pregnancy, postpartum period, and early parenting stages. I offer expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
Hi there! I'm Meg and I’m a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. As a nurse with 8 years of experience in perinatal and pediatric settings, I specialize in providing comprehensive care for adults navigating reproductive challenges, particularly during the fertility journey, pregnancy, postpartum period, and early parenting stages. I offer expertise in medication management and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Natalie Grant-Villegas, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0668f6d-b39c-4743-922b-c9925d65fca1/2/320x400.png)
Natalie Grant-Villegas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Hello and welcome! My name is Natalie and I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in psychedelic medicine and currently offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy at Healing Realms in Brooklyn. In a comfortable, safe, private office setting, I work with a co-therapist to collaboratively offer medical monitoring alongside transformative methods of depth-oriented psychotherapy. We personalize ketamine dosing for each client, administering via intramuscular injection in initial and subsequent doses as determined by client needs.
Hello and welcome! My name is Natalie and I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in psychedelic medicine and currently offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy at Healing Realms in Brooklyn. In a comfortable, safe, private office setting, I work with a co-therapist to collaboratively offer medical monitoring alongside transformative methods of depth-oriented psychotherapy. We personalize ketamine dosing for each client, administering via intramuscular injection in initial and subsequent doses as determined by client needs.
![Photo of S. Shane Konrad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db8a433-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy--the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light." --Dr. Brené Brown. I could not have said it better myself. Our inner resistance to facing our fears and vulnerabilities includes the initial resistance to reach out for help.
"Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy--the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light." --Dr. Brené Brown. I could not have said it better myself. Our inner resistance to facing our fears and vulnerabilities includes the initial resistance to reach out for help.
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![Photo of Christina L Persaud, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4927652d-b010-42c9-9e05-543bdd0c94e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina L Persaud
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249 (Online Only)
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
![Photo of Carlene Macmillan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40231769-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am the co-founder of Fermata (www.fermata.health) and am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist for children, adolescents and adults. I am an expert in accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and second opinions for complex cases, including when families are contemplating higher levels of care like residential treatment. My approach is to be collaborative, individualized and curious.This may involve managing medications, providing individual, family or group therapy or a combination of these options. I am comfortable working with individuals with complex psychiatric backgrounds. Please go to www.fermata.health to make an inquiry.
I am the co-founder of Fermata (www.fermata.health) and am a Harvard-trained psychiatrist for children, adolescents and adults. I am an expert in accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and second opinions for complex cases, including when families are contemplating higher levels of care like residential treatment. My approach is to be collaborative, individualized and curious.This may involve managing medications, providing individual, family or group therapy or a combination of these options. I am comfortable working with individuals with complex psychiatric backgrounds. Please go to www.fermata.health to make an inquiry.
![Photo of Johnny Lops, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e2c30eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Expert therapist for the hit reality series "Married at First Sight," former team psychiatrist for the Brooklyn Nets, and author of the self help book, "Reinvent Yourself: Essential Tools From a Brooklyn Psychiatrist Who Has Seen It All," Dr. Lops is known for being a "therapist's psychiatrist." All clients, children and adults, receive some form of therapy because all of us have the ability to benefit from further tool building or support. Dr. Lops realizes that upon initial assessment, symptoms of anxiety, depression, or ADHD/disruptive behaviors maybe so significant that to do "the work" a trial of medication can be beneficial.
Expert therapist for the hit reality series "Married at First Sight," former team psychiatrist for the Brooklyn Nets, and author of the self help book, "Reinvent Yourself: Essential Tools From a Brooklyn Psychiatrist Who Has Seen It All," Dr. Lops is known for being a "therapist's psychiatrist." All clients, children and adults, receive some form of therapy because all of us have the ability to benefit from further tool building or support. Dr. Lops realizes that upon initial assessment, symptoms of anxiety, depression, or ADHD/disruptive behaviors maybe so significant that to do "the work" a trial of medication can be beneficial.
![Photo of Rebecca Feldman, PMHNP, CNM, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/182bbd63-6ad4-42f5-8610-affbd2303584/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for all stages of family building, including preconception, pregnancy, infertility, pregnancy loss, and postpartum and/or perinatal mood disorders. I offer practical, comprehensive and up to date information so what we can make the best decisions for you and your family.
I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for all stages of family building, including preconception, pregnancy, infertility, pregnancy loss, and postpartum and/or perinatal mood disorders. I offer practical, comprehensive and up to date information so what we can make the best decisions for you and your family.
![Photo of Jennifer Mesrie, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e9f949b-9499-441c-b7ce-6031ab4a46e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking help takes courage, and I’m here to support you on your journey. As a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist, I focus on treating the whole person, not just a diagnosis. Whether you’re feeling stuck due to burnout, anxiety, or life transitions, my goal is to help you thrive. I use psychodynamic and relational therapy, mindfulness, and creative strategies alongside medication management when needed. Together, we’ll create lasting change, unlocking your potential for growth and helping you flourish personally and professionally. I’ll be an essential member of your team, empowering you every step of the way.
Seeking help takes courage, and I’m here to support you on your journey. As a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist, I focus on treating the whole person, not just a diagnosis. Whether you’re feeling stuck due to burnout, anxiety, or life transitions, my goal is to help you thrive. I use psychodynamic and relational therapy, mindfulness, and creative strategies alongside medication management when needed. Together, we’ll create lasting change, unlocking your potential for growth and helping you flourish personally and professionally. I’ll be an essential member of your team, empowering you every step of the way.
![Photo of Jessica Parente, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8478579b-25ad-4f72-ade3-61c0b4d86e04/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Jess! I am an ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, an ICF & CPD Accredited Somatic Trauma-Informed Coach, and a Level IV Brainspotting Provider. I believe the attunement and therapeutic alliance between the provider and the client to be the most crucial part of mental health care. I make it my goal to foster a non-judgmental environment of safety, one where you feel comfortable to “come exactly as you are,” regardless of what that means.
Hi, I'm Jess! I am an ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, an ICF & CPD Accredited Somatic Trauma-Informed Coach, and a Level IV Brainspotting Provider. I believe the attunement and therapeutic alliance between the provider and the client to be the most crucial part of mental health care. I make it my goal to foster a non-judgmental environment of safety, one where you feel comfortable to “come exactly as you are,” regardless of what that means.
![Photo of Parinda Parikh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c37abbc-c8fd-4ac7-afad-5f073e3fb219/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trained in clinical and administrative skills, Dr. Parikh worked as a faculty at NYPH in Westchester since 2002. She had been the Chief of Eating disorder, treating inpatient and outpatient child, adolescent and adults. Her expertise has resulted in book chapters and few publications. She is now in full time, outpatient practice offering concierge medicine, 24/7 access to clinicians while offering integrative and holistic individualized psychiatric treatment. With goals of bridging gap between inpatient and weekly outpatient, We now offer a comprehensive approach to psychiatric treatment.
Trained in clinical and administrative skills, Dr. Parikh worked as a faculty at NYPH in Westchester since 2002. She had been the Chief of Eating disorder, treating inpatient and outpatient child, adolescent and adults. Her expertise has resulted in book chapters and few publications. She is now in full time, outpatient practice offering concierge medicine, 24/7 access to clinicians while offering integrative and holistic individualized psychiatric treatment. With goals of bridging gap between inpatient and weekly outpatient, We now offer a comprehensive approach to psychiatric treatment.
![Photo of Henrietta Okpala, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4aa459a-4461-4baa-9ca5-c1071be35ea5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, DNP, PMHNP-BC, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those who have Mood Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Schizoaffective D/O, Bipolar D/O, Autism Spectrum, Intellectual Disabilities, geriatric population, young adults to geriatrics population and people with gender identity disorder.
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, DNP, PMHNP-BC, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those who have Mood Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Schizoaffective D/O, Bipolar D/O, Autism Spectrum, Intellectual Disabilities, geriatric population, young adults to geriatrics population and people with gender identity disorder.
![Photo of Sofia Loran, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/591b6c42-75aa-489a-9ca9-14643cef31c2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sofia Loran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249 (Online Only)
Therapeutic Health and Wellness, LLC is a private practice owned by Sofia Loran, who is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. At Therapeutic Health and Wellness, LLC we believe in a nonjudgmental approach to individualized care. Medication might not be for you and is not required for treatment. We can help you to build on your strengths to empower you to achieve your goals. Our goal is to help create a therapeutic balance for every individual with respect, compassion, and professionalism.
Therapeutic Health and Wellness, LLC is a private practice owned by Sofia Loran, who is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. At Therapeutic Health and Wellness, LLC we believe in a nonjudgmental approach to individualized care. Medication might not be for you and is not required for treatment. We can help you to build on your strengths to empower you to achieve your goals. Our goal is to help create a therapeutic balance for every individual with respect, compassion, and professionalism.
See more therapy options for 11249
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 11249
30+
Average cost per session
$397
Psychiatrists in 11249 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 11249 see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 11249?
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.