Psychiatrists in New York, NY
![Photo of Dr. Henrietta Okpala, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, B SN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc1795f1-6ce9-4db9-913f-a893524ec49e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Henrietta Okpala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSN, B SN
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, 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 in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, 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 in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.
![Photo of Minna Navvab - M.N Psych Services , PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5808f9ed-82cf-4673-bdc2-2f30c133c1e6/1/320x400.png)
M.N Psych Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is concerned with every day life and possibly has concerns with anxiety and depression. It is easy to feel overwhelmed when mental health concerns are overbearing. I would enjoy helping clients explore these feelings and find solutions to potentially overcome their concerns. Clients may be experiencing symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, dealing with persistent feelings of sadness or constant worrying, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, or a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Together, we can solve these issues by setting plausible goals and medication management.
My ideal client is someone who is concerned with every day life and possibly has concerns with anxiety and depression. It is easy to feel overwhelmed when mental health concerns are overbearing. I would enjoy helping clients explore these feelings and find solutions to potentially overcome their concerns. Clients may be experiencing symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, dealing with persistent feelings of sadness or constant worrying, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, or a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Together, we can solve these issues by setting plausible goals and medication management.
![Photo of Jacqueline Lewandowski, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78ab08ce-00fa-48b6-9731-b0e3c7f1fd68/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jacqueline Lewandowski is a board-certified physician specializing in adult psychiatry. She obtained her undergraduate degree from New York University where she studied psychology and child/adolescent mental health. Before moving back to New York, Dr. Lewandowski received her medical degree from St. George's University in Grenada to complete her residency at Morningside and West Mount Sinai Hospitals. Since completing training, Dr. Lewandowski has practiced and held teaching positions. Dr. Lewandowski has a wide range of experience treating various psychiatric diagnoses and populations.
Dr. Jacqueline Lewandowski is a board-certified physician specializing in adult psychiatry. She obtained her undergraduate degree from New York University where she studied psychology and child/adolescent mental health. Before moving back to New York, Dr. Lewandowski received her medical degree from St. George's University in Grenada to complete her residency at Morningside and West Mount Sinai Hospitals. Since completing training, Dr. Lewandowski has practiced and held teaching positions. Dr. Lewandowski has a wide range of experience treating various psychiatric diagnoses and populations.
![Photo of Roberta Zanzonico, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/735a5c2a-dad9-4dd8-9815-eeaf19ee5e07/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, teacher, and published author. I offer treatments designed for adults and older adults, and I have a dedicated focus on reproductive psychiatry. I have trained between Italy and the United States, where I conducted research at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School and ultimately completed my training at the University of Southern California. In 2020, I became a Clinical Instructor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. I perfected my training and gained a second board certification in Consultation and Liaison Psychiatry, which focuses on complex clinical scenarios.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, teacher, and published author. I offer treatments designed for adults and older adults, and I have a dedicated focus on reproductive psychiatry. I have trained between Italy and the United States, where I conducted research at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School and ultimately completed my training at the University of Southern California. In 2020, I became a Clinical Instructor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. I perfected my training and gained a second board certification in Consultation and Liaison Psychiatry, which focuses on complex clinical scenarios.
![Photo of Alanna Montalvan, PMHNP, -BC, RN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2521e4a-d700-422e-b451-1a1685264111/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alanna Montalvan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, RN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I specialize in working with young professionals in their 20s through 50s who experience high anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. Through the use of medication management complimented by therapy, clients will experience a sense of freedom as they release the negative energy trapped in their bodies. After working with me, they are more in tune with their mind-body connection and feel equipped with the tools provided to process and deal with various emotions and experiences to achieve their perfect balance for whole-body wellness.
I specialize in working with young professionals in their 20s through 50s who experience high anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. Through the use of medication management complimented by therapy, clients will experience a sense of freedom as they release the negative energy trapped in their bodies. After working with me, they are more in tune with their mind-body connection and feel equipped with the tools provided to process and deal with various emotions and experiences to achieve their perfect balance for whole-body wellness.
![Photo of Elise Richards, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65af4ebd-0f68-4dd2-b3ed-2186987f2172/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes the challenges we face can leave us with difficult emotions that are hard to navigate. Together we can unpack these issues and develop a plan that will empower you to meet your goals. My practice utilizes a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treatment that is tailored to address your specific needs.
Sometimes the challenges we face can leave us with difficult emotions that are hard to navigate. Together we can unpack these issues and develop a plan that will empower you to meet your goals. My practice utilizes a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treatment that is tailored to address your specific needs.
![Photo of Jeffrey M. Miller, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e2281b3-bd2b-4388-8b11-19299c27c922/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist and specialize in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders using medication and psychotherapy, either alone or in combination with one another. As an academic psychiatrist on faculty at Columbia University, I conduct research studying mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder, and I teach medical students and psychiatry residents about these conditions. I practice evidence-based medicine, using a broad range of approaches, including medication, psychotherapy, diet, bright light therapy, and mindfulness meditation, to tailor your treatment to your specific goals and preferences.
I am a psychiatrist and specialize in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders using medication and psychotherapy, either alone or in combination with one another. As an academic psychiatrist on faculty at Columbia University, I conduct research studying mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder, and I teach medical students and psychiatry residents about these conditions. I practice evidence-based medicine, using a broad range of approaches, including medication, psychotherapy, diet, bright light therapy, and mindfulness meditation, to tailor your treatment to your specific goals and preferences.
![Photo of Roey Pasternak, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cddd3ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Pasternak is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist currently practicing in Manhattan, New York and Englewood, New Jersey. He is dually Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and is licensed to practice in the both the State of New York and New Jersey. Pasternak incorporates psycho-dynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive therapies, and psychopharmacological management, tailoring his approach to meet the specific needs of each client. Dr. Pasternak is very experienced in treating anxiety disorders utilizing psychopharmacological management in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy.
Dr. Pasternak is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist currently practicing in Manhattan, New York and Englewood, New Jersey. He is dually Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and is licensed to practice in the both the State of New York and New Jersey. Pasternak incorporates psycho-dynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive therapies, and psychopharmacological management, tailoring his approach to meet the specific needs of each client. Dr. Pasternak is very experienced in treating anxiety disorders utilizing psychopharmacological management in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy.
![Photo of Tatiana Schneider, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5197892a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in a diagnostic evaluation, medication assessment and therapy if needed. I am an experienced psycho-pharmacologist and usually combine medication therapy with cognitive-behavioral and psycho-dynamic psychotherapy. I have additional certifications in Milton Ericson Hypnosis and NLP.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in a diagnostic evaluation, medication assessment and therapy if needed. I am an experienced psycho-pharmacologist and usually combine medication therapy with cognitive-behavioral and psycho-dynamic psychotherapy. I have additional certifications in Milton Ericson Hypnosis and NLP.
![Photo of Sevil Gamer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/664461ed-5e8b-4401-ad9f-96d9da8b5299/2/320x400.jpeg)
"If you have worries about your mental health, difficulty relating to others, problems with social skills, changes in level of functioning, sexual disorders, or gender identity, I would like us to work together to find a solution." Dr. Gamer's private practice goal is to provide help by strengthening patient's mental health via individualized treatment including intense psychotherapy and, if needed, medications. She specializes in depression, anxiety, uneven mood, Bipolar Disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and eating disorders. She is the creator of the adult inpatient Women's Reproductive Mental Health Program at King's County Hospital.
"If you have worries about your mental health, difficulty relating to others, problems with social skills, changes in level of functioning, sexual disorders, or gender identity, I would like us to work together to find a solution." Dr. Gamer's private practice goal is to provide help by strengthening patient's mental health via individualized treatment including intense psychotherapy and, if needed, medications. She specializes in depression, anxiety, uneven mood, Bipolar Disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and eating disorders. She is the creator of the adult inpatient Women's Reproductive Mental Health Program at King's County Hospital.
![Photo of Dr. Justin Rossi, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f6f0ad1-e207-4b5a-ac34-b51061d1e776/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified pediatric and adult psychiatrist trained at Columbia, Cornell, and UCSF and educated at Harvard and the University of Florida. I offer medication management and psychotherapy to treat a range of mental-health concerns, including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My goal is to provide care that is holistic, personalized, and informed by the most up-to-date clinical research. My background as a PhD-level neuroscientist helps me incorporate the most current scientific evidence into your treatment. I am licensed in New York, Florida, and California.
I am a board-certified pediatric and adult psychiatrist trained at Columbia, Cornell, and UCSF and educated at Harvard and the University of Florida. I offer medication management and psychotherapy to treat a range of mental-health concerns, including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My goal is to provide care that is holistic, personalized, and informed by the most up-to-date clinical research. My background as a PhD-level neuroscientist helps me incorporate the most current scientific evidence into your treatment. I am licensed in New York, Florida, and California.
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![Photo of Nicole Foubister, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c487828-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My professional background is Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry. I am also board certified in Forensic Psychiatry. I am currently on faculty at NYU School of Medicine and I have been an attending psychiatrist at the NYU Medical Center, where I worked for three years as the Director of the Young Adult Unit.
I specialize in treating children, teens and adults. I have extensive experience in the evaluation and treatment of many areas of concern including but not limited to anxiety, OCD, depression, attentional disorders, acting out behaviors as well as issues concerning relationships, career and identity.
My professional background is Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry. I am also board certified in Forensic Psychiatry. I am currently on faculty at NYU School of Medicine and I have been an attending psychiatrist at the NYU Medical Center, where I worked for three years as the Director of the Young Adult Unit.
I specialize in treating children, teens and adults. I have extensive experience in the evaluation and treatment of many areas of concern including but not limited to anxiety, OCD, depression, attentional disorders, acting out behaviors as well as issues concerning relationships, career and identity.
![Photo of Stephen 'chris' Marshall, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02cc5bd1-7407-4f45-aab5-6b16ba360ded/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen 'chris' Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Chris and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, men's issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder, stress management loss & grief, as well as medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Chris and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, men's issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder, stress management loss & grief, as well as medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Rebecca Fink, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25c7ac47-1d0d-4b28-8c5f-b11b7a52f0d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist who has been practicing psychiatry in New York City since 2011. Working in New York, I’ve had the opportunity to support a diverse group of people, from varying backgrounds, helping them function at their best. I highly value working with my patients to understand their specific challenges and strengths, and I collaborate with them to address their treatment goals. I aim to provide a supportive treatment environment. I am a queer-affirming psychiatrist, and value the opportunity to support the queer community.
I am a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist who has been practicing psychiatry in New York City since 2011. Working in New York, I’ve had the opportunity to support a diverse group of people, from varying backgrounds, helping them function at their best. I highly value working with my patients to understand their specific challenges and strengths, and I collaborate with them to address their treatment goals. I aim to provide a supportive treatment environment. I am a queer-affirming psychiatrist, and value the opportunity to support the queer community.
![Photo of Aparna Dole, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24a2ee65-97d4-4977-9057-1be3e445f4b0/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Dole is board certified in Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Mumbai in 2002. She worked briefly with the NHS system in the United Kingdom prior to moving to the US. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at SUNY Health Science Center in Brooklyn in 2009 and completed her fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio in 2010. She has more than 10 years of experience in working with patients with Depression, and Anxiety.
Dr. Dole is board certified in Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Mumbai in 2002. She worked briefly with the NHS system in the United Kingdom prior to moving to the US. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at SUNY Health Science Center in Brooklyn in 2009 and completed her fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio in 2010. She has more than 10 years of experience in working with patients with Depression, and Anxiety.
![Photo of Stephanie Liss, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0db83c03-2f8e-46cd-8313-2d3e9396914d/2/320x400.png)
Stephanie is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
Stephanie is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
![Photo of David Eiler, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6a7c7af-4f5e-45d3-8c32-feea1c1feb80/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. David Eiler is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Eiler was a staff psychiatrist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), where he had an academic appointment and served as clinical director of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and intranasal esketamine services. Dr. Eiler has focused on medication management and interventional techniques, including TMS, for the treatment of depression and other disorders. Dr. Eiler received his MD from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and completed his residency at DHMC.
Dr. David Eiler is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Eiler was a staff psychiatrist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), where he had an academic appointment and served as clinical director of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and intranasal esketamine services. Dr. Eiler has focused on medication management and interventional techniques, including TMS, for the treatment of depression and other disorders. Dr. Eiler received his MD from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and completed his residency at DHMC.
![Photo of Louisa J. Steinberg, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d18d14-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Columbia-trained, board certified psychiatrist. I have broad expertise in providing treatment of mental health issues. In my practice, I use an individualized, empathic, collaborative approach to the treatment of psychiatric conditions. Psychiatry is a unique specialty that requires us to not only treat the brain, but also the mind. Therefore, I offer a variety of treatment approaches, including medication management, several types of psychotherapy, and family/couples therapy. I offer telepsychiatry services to residents throughout NY.
I am a Columbia-trained, board certified psychiatrist. I have broad expertise in providing treatment of mental health issues. In my practice, I use an individualized, empathic, collaborative approach to the treatment of psychiatric conditions. Psychiatry is a unique specialty that requires us to not only treat the brain, but also the mind. Therefore, I offer a variety of treatment approaches, including medication management, several types of psychotherapy, and family/couples therapy. I offer telepsychiatry services to residents throughout NY.
![Photo of Jaime Locke, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcb8e653-0bed-4cf2-9112-dc60960c12dc/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jamie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Relationship Issues, Stress Management, Family Issues, Insomnia & Sleep issues, Women’s Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jamie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Relationship Issues, Stress Management, Family Issues, Insomnia & Sleep issues, Women’s Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Dr. Scott Shapiro - Scott Shapiro, MD - Specializing in Anxiety, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c402ced1-8b6f-4215-bc52-a4e8b6a46d31/2/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Shapiro, MD - Specializing in Anxiety
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or burned out? Looking for help? Therapy + Meds? Perhaps it is affecting your work, relationships or your ability to unwind?
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or burned out? Looking for help? Therapy + Meds? Perhaps it is affecting your work, relationships or your ability to unwind?
See more therapy options for New York
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in New York, NY
1,000+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
81% | Medication Management |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
69% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in New York, NY see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
37% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New York?
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.