Psychiatrists in Oceanside, NY
![Photo of Aziz Ahmed Soomro, MBBS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96abbd5f-4347-4ba1-b240-5a80981b1a1b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Soomro is a trained Child Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Dr. Soomro completed his Adult Psychiatry training at New York University Medical School North Shore University Hospital Manhasset. Dr. Soomro subsequently completed his Child and Adolescents Psychiatry training at Dartmouth. Dr. Soomro has been affiliated with Brookdale Hospital, Westchester Medical Center, Northwell Health, Saint Joseph Medical Center, and NYCC Health and Hospital Corporation . Dr. Soomro has been involved in teaching and supervision of resident and fellows in training. Dr. Soomro has extensive experience in treating children, Adolescent and Adults.
Dr. Soomro is a trained Child Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Dr. Soomro completed his Adult Psychiatry training at New York University Medical School North Shore University Hospital Manhasset. Dr. Soomro subsequently completed his Child and Adolescents Psychiatry training at Dartmouth. Dr. Soomro has been affiliated with Brookdale Hospital, Westchester Medical Center, Northwell Health, Saint Joseph Medical Center, and NYCC Health and Hospital Corporation . Dr. Soomro has been involved in teaching and supervision of resident and fellows in training. Dr. Soomro has extensive experience in treating children, Adolescent and Adults.
![Photo of Ruslan Berdichevsky - MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8980e83a-303f-4d5b-b1fb-a94d8fce88e0/1/320x400.png)
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, NY 11572 (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Peter Jay Stein, MD, MA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4528c6bc-6be9-4876-a646-c102c3d50051/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology: Accurate diagnosis is paramount in psychiatry, and this requires adequate time, in order to develop rapport and understanding. For treatment, I apply the various tools of psychodynamic-expressive-psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and, when medically indicated, I may recommend, carefully prescribe, and monitor psychotropic (or psychoactive) medication (psychopharmacology/pharmacotherapy), across all diagnostic categories.
Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology: Accurate diagnosis is paramount in psychiatry, and this requires adequate time, in order to develop rapport and understanding. For treatment, I apply the various tools of psychodynamic-expressive-psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and, when medically indicated, I may recommend, carefully prescribe, and monitor psychotropic (or psychoactive) medication (psychopharmacology/pharmacotherapy), across all diagnostic categories.
Trained as a child and adolescent psychiatrist and also as an adult psychiatrist, with board certification in both, I have experience in a variety of mental health difficulties in children, adolescents and adults. My goal is to apply this experience in management of every patient that seek my services to help improve their level of functioning in different areas of their lives including school, work, at home, with relationships and in the community.
Trained as a child and adolescent psychiatrist and also as an adult psychiatrist, with board certification in both, I have experience in a variety of mental health difficulties in children, adolescents and adults. My goal is to apply this experience in management of every patient that seek my services to help improve their level of functioning in different areas of their lives including school, work, at home, with relationships and in the community.
![Photo of Sagarika Ray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4455e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I specialize in treating a vast array of mental illnesses including ADHD, depression, anxiety and autistic spectrum disorders. I initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation, devise a specific treatment plan that is tailored for each individual based on their age and personal needs, offer medication management, individual and family therapy. I take special interest in treating depression and PTSD in adolescents and women.
I am a double Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I specialize in treating a vast array of mental illnesses including ADHD, depression, anxiety and autistic spectrum disorders. I initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation, devise a specific treatment plan that is tailored for each individual based on their age and personal needs, offer medication management, individual and family therapy. I take special interest in treating depression and PTSD in adolescents and women.
I m an advanced practice psychiatric nurse - specializing in treating children, adolescents, and adults in medication management and psychotherapy. I have a small practice in Rockville Centre, where I see a select group of patients who are committed to recovery and moving forward with their lives.
I m an advanced practice psychiatric nurse - specializing in treating children, adolescents, and adults in medication management and psychotherapy. I have a small practice in Rockville Centre, where I see a select group of patients who are committed to recovery and moving forward with their lives.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ketie D Saintelus, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c02a00bc-fa6b-48ca-bf49-917bc9c150f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ketie D Saintelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Lynbrook, NY 11563
Hello, my name is Ketie Saintelus, I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 23 years of Nursing experience providing family-centered healthcare to patients of all ages. Mental Illness is real and it can take a toll on you. It is time to take charge of your life, stop procrastinating, do no be afraid and seek help. Simply ask me how? I am here to hear you, to help you feel well, to help you smile, and to help you appreciate you and fall in love with you all over again.
Hello, my name is Ketie Saintelus, I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 23 years of Nursing experience providing family-centered healthcare to patients of all ages. Mental Illness is real and it can take a toll on you. It is time to take charge of your life, stop procrastinating, do no be afraid and seek help. Simply ask me how? I am here to hear you, to help you feel well, to help you smile, and to help you appreciate you and fall in love with you all over again.
![Photo of Susan R Cohen, PhD, RNCS, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7dc16a2f-a7e5-4efd-9f14-312ff2c93325/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am not an MD I do NOT prescribe medication...I have been a therapist for more than 30 years. During that time I have lived through many of the life events my clients may have been or are experiencing. I am the daughter of an aging mother, the mother of married children and a grandmother. I have experienced the loss of a parent and my spouse and understand all the emotions that come along with all life's stressful events, both joyous and sad.
I am not an MD I do NOT prescribe medication...I have been a therapist for more than 30 years. During that time I have lived through many of the life events my clients may have been or are experiencing. I am the daughter of an aging mother, the mother of married children and a grandmother. I have experienced the loss of a parent and my spouse and understand all the emotions that come along with all life's stressful events, both joyous and sad.
![Photo of Anita Richardson-Sasson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b75ed1fa-8e4b-433f-8963-7bd58f62106f/2/320x400.png)
*Currently accepting new patients via telepsychiatry.* I am ready to help you! I have been a Registered Nurse for 12+ years and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 9+ years, and my mission is to improve your life. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, and ADHD for adults, and older adults. I view psychiatry through a holistic standpoint, in which I use the mind and the body to help you get to the wellness that you so deserve.
*Currently accepting new patients via telepsychiatry.* I am ready to help you! I have been a Registered Nurse for 12+ years and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 9+ years, and my mission is to improve your life. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, and ADHD for adults, and older adults. I view psychiatry through a holistic standpoint, in which I use the mind and the body to help you get to the wellness that you so deserve.
![Photo of Judith Elie-Eveillard - Eliepsych, PMC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59879c9c-19f7-467d-b6e4-6670e762a5ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eliepsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMC, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baldwin, NY 11510 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing mental health and wellness to adults from diverse backgrounds. I provide medication management for patients with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, ADHD, and mood disorders. I utilize a holistic, centered approach to help manage patients struggling with various mental health illnesses. Moreover, my goal is to help you improve your self-esteem, mental stability, and ability to function daily.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing mental health and wellness to adults from diverse backgrounds. I provide medication management for patients with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, ADHD, and mood disorders. I utilize a holistic, centered approach to help manage patients struggling with various mental health illnesses. Moreover, my goal is to help you improve your self-esteem, mental stability, and ability to function daily.
![Photo of Scott Krakower, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/147d44f5-3eba-4a36-b1a9-4c7ded529d9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Krakower is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. He is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and formerly served as Unit Chief of Psychiatry at Northwell Health / Zucker Hillside Hospital. He is internationally recognized for his work with patients suffering from trauma, anxiety, video gaming, head injuries, coronavirus recovery, and addiction. He has provided expert opinion for hundreds of studies worldwide. He is recognized as a top physician by SuperDoctors and was a group recipient of the the Catchers in the Rye Humanitarian Award.
Dr. Krakower is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. He is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and formerly served as Unit Chief of Psychiatry at Northwell Health / Zucker Hillside Hospital. He is internationally recognized for his work with patients suffering from trauma, anxiety, video gaming, head injuries, coronavirus recovery, and addiction. He has provided expert opinion for hundreds of studies worldwide. He is recognized as a top physician by SuperDoctors and was a group recipient of the the Catchers in the Rye Humanitarian Award.
![Photo of John Prato - Island Lighthouse Consultation Services, NPP, P.C., MS, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce50b7c3-8da5-4437-86af-999da7781fea/2/320x400.png)
Island Lighthouse Consultation Services, NPP, P.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
We are an expanding practice, currently accepting new clients for medication management, offering fairly immediate availability for new intakes. You have likely taken the first steps in accepting help, pursuing therapy, however, in spite of this, you may continue to struggle. In such cases, patients will often benefit from a combination of both medications and psychotherapy. At Island Lighthouse Consultation Services, NPP, P.C., we can assess your needs and together we can formulate an individualized treatment plan. Working in collaboration with you and your therapist, we can help you to achieve your greatest potential.
We are an expanding practice, currently accepting new clients for medication management, offering fairly immediate availability for new intakes. You have likely taken the first steps in accepting help, pursuing therapy, however, in spite of this, you may continue to struggle. In such cases, patients will often benefit from a combination of both medications and psychotherapy. At Island Lighthouse Consultation Services, NPP, P.C., we can assess your needs and together we can formulate an individualized treatment plan. Working in collaboration with you and your therapist, we can help you to achieve your greatest potential.
![Photo of Daniel Moldwin, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74b83b0f-f519-499c-bf2e-fe29be55fb6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Moldwin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
I am a Duke University trained psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management for individuals 18 years and older. Building strong trusting relationships, providing education, and engaging in client-centered care are all important aspects of my treatment approach. My goal is to optimize each person’s quality of life, helping people to feel happier and more fulfilled. I am proud to provide clients across New York State with easily accessible, affordable, quality mental health care. xx Now offering Spravato therapy for patients struggling with Treatment Resistant Depression xx
I am a Duke University trained psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management for individuals 18 years and older. Building strong trusting relationships, providing education, and engaging in client-centered care are all important aspects of my treatment approach. My goal is to optimize each person’s quality of life, helping people to feel happier and more fulfilled. I am proud to provide clients across New York State with easily accessible, affordable, quality mental health care. xx Now offering Spravato therapy for patients struggling with Treatment Resistant Depression xx
![Photo of Daniel Hernandez, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/869ae554-63c5-40fe-b71a-4802a3680199/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Daniel Hernandez is a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry while also providing comprehensive psychiatric care for adults. Daniel has expertise in treating ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD. His extensive experience allows him to seamlessly address the unique mental health needs of individuals across the lifespan.
Daniel Hernandez is a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry while also providing comprehensive psychiatric care for adults. Daniel has expertise in treating ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD. His extensive experience allows him to seamlessly address the unique mental health needs of individuals across the lifespan.
![Photo of Nidhin Samuel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498ce065-8557-46ca-b3cc-78bdf6c38027/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nidhin Samuel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville Centre, NY 11570 (Online Only)
Nidhin Samuel places a strong emphasis on creating a safe environment in which you can work toward developing and strengthening mental health and maintenance. She enjoys assisting and providing care through telehealth in an integrated practice, building and fortifying care accessible to you. Sessions are personalized, targeted, and integrative. The initial sessions will be dedicated to assessing your current wellness and creating a personalized plan to fit your unique needs and goals. She is accepting new clients.
Nidhin Samuel places a strong emphasis on creating a safe environment in which you can work toward developing and strengthening mental health and maintenance. She enjoys assisting and providing care through telehealth in an integrated practice, building and fortifying care accessible to you. Sessions are personalized, targeted, and integrative. The initial sessions will be dedicated to assessing your current wellness and creating a personalized plan to fit your unique needs and goals. She is accepting new clients.
![Photo of Gretchen Kretkowski-Rieger - Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/210bceac-14f7-435f-b60c-d28f6ca26a24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Freeport, NY 11520
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.
![Photo of Ayshea Monique Beswick, MSN, RN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aaf1385-e8b0-451c-aa9d-52ffcbcd5527/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ayshea Monique Beswick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Every patient has diverse needs and is individual's and approach to treatment will be tailored to everyone's needs. A collaborative approach which may include both therapy and/or medication management. I encourage an honest, trustworthy relationship that will be beneficial in your journey to finding balance. I congratulate you on taking the steps towards finding a mental health partner, because together we will develop a treatment plan that is best suited for you and your current situation.
Every patient has diverse needs and is individual's and approach to treatment will be tailored to everyone's needs. A collaborative approach which may include both therapy and/or medication management. I encourage an honest, trustworthy relationship that will be beneficial in your journey to finding balance. I congratulate you on taking the steps towards finding a mental health partner, because together we will develop a treatment plan that is best suited for you and your current situation.
![Photo of Ricardo Miller, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61045748-1dc3-4576-be5c-0a5d2874e2a2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ricardo Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lynbrook, NY 11564
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of clinical experience. I specialize in the diagnoses and treatment of adults with a range of mental health issues.In addition to providing a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to all of my new patients, I offer medication management for adults.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of clinical experience. I specialize in the diagnoses and treatment of adults with a range of mental health issues.In addition to providing a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to all of my new patients, I offer medication management for adults.
![Photo of Fred Darkwa, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efd3469c-1804-4c44-8690-6742f2f9ded7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fred Darkwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Fred Dwarka, a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, moved from Ghana to the U.S. to pursue nursing and graduated from Hunter College with a specialization in psychiatric care. He provides holistic and culturally sensitive mental health services, emphasizing the importance of understanding each patient’s unique needs and goals. Fred believes in the power of building strong relationships and contextualizing medication management as part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each individual's well-being.
Fred Dwarka, a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, moved from Ghana to the U.S. to pursue nursing and graduated from Hunter College with a specialization in psychiatric care. He provides holistic and culturally sensitive mental health services, emphasizing the importance of understanding each patient’s unique needs and goals. Fred believes in the power of building strong relationships and contextualizing medication management as part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each individual's well-being.
![Photo of Zhanna Berman, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, CHES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fd601a8-e643-4485-8c24-a797e0c104f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zhanna Berman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, CHES
Verified Verified
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Why is this happening to ME? To my child? Is this Just How it is? After all, I’ve done everything right. I’ve tried different doctors; numerous medications and not only am I not getting better but I’m having to deal with these side effects! If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Hope can be one of the hardest things to hold on to when you are struggling. I know that mental illness is more than a set of symptoms. They are conditions that affect everyone differently. This is why I develop a concierge treatment plan utilizing the latest science to provide precision and care for my patients. Hope is here!
Why is this happening to ME? To my child? Is this Just How it is? After all, I’ve done everything right. I’ve tried different doctors; numerous medications and not only am I not getting better but I’m having to deal with these side effects! If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Hope can be one of the hardest things to hold on to when you are struggling. I know that mental illness is more than a set of symptoms. They are conditions that affect everyone differently. This is why I develop a concierge treatment plan utilizing the latest science to provide precision and care for my patients. Hope is here!
See more therapy options for Oceanside
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oceanside, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Oceanside, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Medication Management |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Child |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
39 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | 1199SEIU |
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Oceanside, NY see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oceanside?
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.