Psychiatrists in Suffolk County, NY
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Patchogue, NY 11772 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Colletta Jerrick is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2022. She has a PMHNP-BC, MSN-RN, and TNCC. Colletta believes in working closely and respectfully with all clients to meet their health goals and providing evidence-based practice for safe patient care. She is here to help! In her spare time, Colletta enjoys playing volleyball, traveling, and spending time with family/friends.
Colletta Jerrick is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2022. She has a PMHNP-BC, MSN-RN, and TNCC. Colletta believes in working closely and respectfully with all clients to meet their health goals and providing evidence-based practice for safe patient care. She is here to help! In her spare time, Colletta enjoys playing volleyball, traveling, and spending time with family/friends.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Ann Perry-Blizzard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2009. She has an Advanced Practice Degree in Nursing/Psychiatry, Mental Health, graduating from Stony Brook University. Ann has diversified experience with in-patient, out-patient, partial hospitalization, private practice, and outpatient client services, offering both in person and virtual visits, working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults of all ages, and families. She has experience working with group homes for all ages with developmental disabilities, various agencies, schools, DASH etc.
Ann Perry-Blizzard is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2009. She has an Advanced Practice Degree in Nursing/Psychiatry, Mental Health, graduating from Stony Brook University. Ann has diversified experience with in-patient, out-patient, partial hospitalization, private practice, and outpatient client services, offering both in person and virtual visits, working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults of all ages, and families. She has experience working with group homes for all ages with developmental disabilities, various agencies, schools, DASH etc.
Mental health conditions can be debilitating and become obstacles in the way of us from pursuing our dreams. I am here to work with you to navigate those obstacles and gain control of your future. Your struggles do not define you, rather, they are obstacles in your path. My style is one of empathetic listening, compassion, education, and options.
Mental health conditions can be debilitating and become obstacles in the way of us from pursuing our dreams. I am here to work with you to navigate those obstacles and gain control of your future. Your struggles do not define you, rather, they are obstacles in your path. My style is one of empathetic listening, compassion, education, and options.
Megan B Resnick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
I work with adults ages 18 and older struggling with Anxiety, Panic disorder, ADHD, OCD, Depression, as well as, a several other psychiatric diagnoses. I offer concierge style of approach, my treatment plans are individual to your needs and treatment goals. I am open and supportive of a holistic approach to achieving wellness, with the options to utilize medication management when necessary. I will require a screening assessment prior to initial intake. I am an provider with CIGNA, OSCAR, BC/BS, AETNA, United Heath, Oxford ONLY. No community plans are accepted. Private pay is accepted.
I work with adults ages 18 and older struggling with Anxiety, Panic disorder, ADHD, OCD, Depression, as well as, a several other psychiatric diagnoses. I offer concierge style of approach, my treatment plans are individual to your needs and treatment goals. I am open and supportive of a holistic approach to achieving wellness, with the options to utilize medication management when necessary. I will require a screening assessment prior to initial intake. I am an provider with CIGNA, OSCAR, BC/BS, AETNA, United Heath, Oxford ONLY. No community plans are accepted. Private pay is accepted.
Jennifer Regeer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
I am committed to supporting people in their journey to overcome childhood wounds and patterns and create fulfillment in their adult lives. I welcome working with all people helping to explore and affect meaningful change in their lives. I have most experience working with people suffering from anxiety, mood disorders, depression, relationship problems and/or addictions. However, I welcome all and look forward to collaborating with you to achieve optimal health and growth.
I am committed to supporting people in their journey to overcome childhood wounds and patterns and create fulfillment in their adult lives. I welcome working with all people helping to explore and affect meaningful change in their lives. I have most experience working with people suffering from anxiety, mood disorders, depression, relationship problems and/or addictions. However, I welcome all and look forward to collaborating with you to achieve optimal health and growth.
Child & Adult Clinical Psychiatry NY & Deep TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Aleksandra Krunic, MD, a top psychiatrist serving patients in Long Island and New York with a variety of advanced treatments for mental health disorders, is announcing new BrainsWay’s Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) for the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Aleksandra Krunic, MD, lead psychiatrist and founder of the practice, has been utilizing a similar helmet for the treatment of depression with great patient outcomes. Deep TMS has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for depression since 2013 and received approval for OCD in August of 2018.
Aleksandra Krunic, MD, a top psychiatrist serving patients in Long Island and New York with a variety of advanced treatments for mental health disorders, is announcing new BrainsWay’s Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) for the treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Aleksandra Krunic, MD, lead psychiatrist and founder of the practice, has been utilizing a similar helmet for the treatment of depression with great patient outcomes. Deep TMS has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for depression since 2013 and received approval for OCD in August of 2018.
Welcome to Guiding Balance. We offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations with genetic testing, medication management with genetic profiling, and psychotherapy. We treat pediatric, adult, and geriatric clients.
Welcome to Guiding Balance. We offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations with genetic testing, medication management with genetic profiling, and psychotherapy. We treat pediatric, adult, and geriatric clients.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Often in life through no fault of our own are overwhelmed and may become depressed or anxious. Sometimes our family and friends do not understand. It is difficult to know where to turn or where to find help. With 20+ years working in the field of mental health, I understand and can help.
Often in life through no fault of our own are overwhelmed and may become depressed or anxious. Sometimes our family and friends do not understand. It is difficult to know where to turn or where to find help. With 20+ years working in the field of mental health, I understand and can help.
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I have spent several years working with adults from ages 16 to 70. Many of my patients are going through difficult transitions and have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and ADHD. I use a multidisciplinary approach if appropriate, in addition to medication management.
I have spent several years working with adults from ages 16 to 70. Many of my patients are going through difficult transitions and have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and ADHD. I use a multidisciplinary approach if appropriate, in addition to medication management.
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743 (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.
Telepsychiatry Services in Suffolk
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Medford, NY 11763 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare). I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems, dysphoria or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare). I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems, dysphoria or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
Reggie Valdemar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Babylon, NY 11703
Hi, I'm Reggie Valdemar. I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practioner. I have over 10 Years of experience assessing and treating various mental health disorders. My goal in providing care is that during each session, I will provide holistic care and work together with my clients to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Our alliance will be empathic, respectful, caring, and trust-building. We will work together to assist in discovering things about yourself. My practice cultivates room for growth or resilience. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter.
Hi, I'm Reggie Valdemar. I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practioner. I have over 10 Years of experience assessing and treating various mental health disorders. My goal in providing care is that during each session, I will provide holistic care and work together with my clients to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Our alliance will be empathic, respectful, caring, and trust-building. We will work together to assist in discovering things about yourself. My practice cultivates room for growth or resilience. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter.
Annette Jarrett-Graham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747 (Online Only)
I am a board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Health Nurse Practitioner. Central to my professional philosophy is the commitment to enhance both behavioral and medical health, while effectively managing diseases and medications. Working with a diverse range of patients throughout my career has enabled me to communicate effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.
I am a board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Health Nurse Practitioner. Central to my professional philosophy is the commitment to enhance both behavioral and medical health, while effectively managing diseases and medications. Working with a diverse range of patients throughout my career has enabled me to communicate effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.
According to Federal Mandate all New Patients must be seen in person, in the office to establish care…Dr. Faisal Rafiq is a Psychiatrist and has been practicing since 2008, gaining vast experience throughout the field of Psychiatry, medication management, Psychvisit is a Full Service psychiatric practice offering state of the art treatments such as Genetic Testing, TMS therapy, Spravato Treatment, Long Acting injectables for Bipolar and Addiction.
According to Federal Mandate all New Patients must be seen in person, in the office to establish care…Dr. Faisal Rafiq is a Psychiatrist and has been practicing since 2008, gaining vast experience throughout the field of Psychiatry, medication management, Psychvisit is a Full Service psychiatric practice offering state of the art treatments such as Genetic Testing, TMS therapy, Spravato Treatment, Long Acting injectables for Bipolar and Addiction.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience working in a broad variety of environments including consult liaison in one of Long Island's largest hospitals, inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I am experienced in the pharmacological treatment of substance abuse including the use of Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, and Medical Marijuana. I also have experience with treatment-resistant depression, adult ADHD, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. I believe in the use of esketamine for treatment-resistant depression.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience working in a broad variety of environments including consult liaison in one of Long Island's largest hospitals, inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I am experienced in the pharmacological treatment of substance abuse including the use of Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, and Medical Marijuana. I also have experience with treatment-resistant depression, adult ADHD, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. I believe in the use of esketamine for treatment-resistant depression.
My practice philosophy is treating a person as a whole. I provide confidential and comprehensive assessment based on you and/or your child’s personal needs. I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent psychiatrist and part of faculty practice at South Oaks Hospital Amityville. I offer evidence-based diagnostic and medication management services and incorporate healthier diet and lifestyle changes that will help you to be a better version of yourself. I treat mood, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, depression and other related mental health disorders. I specialize in dialectal behavioral therapy, specifically for people struggling with self harm.
My practice philosophy is treating a person as a whole. I provide confidential and comprehensive assessment based on you and/or your child’s personal needs. I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent psychiatrist and part of faculty practice at South Oaks Hospital Amityville. I offer evidence-based diagnostic and medication management services and incorporate healthier diet and lifestyle changes that will help you to be a better version of yourself. I treat mood, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, depression and other related mental health disorders. I specialize in dialectal behavioral therapy, specifically for people struggling with self harm.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP treating adolescents and adults. Over 20 years of diversified Nursing experience afforded me the opportunity to cultivate my passion for Psychiatry. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, impulse disorders, and psychosis. I offer compassionate and comprehensive services to all who are seeking a safe and therapeutic environment toward a goal of optimal mental health and wellness. Our treatment approach will be more than medication management. It will be a collaborative one; working together to develop an individualized treatment plan to address your needs.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric NP treating adolescents and adults. Over 20 years of diversified Nursing experience afforded me the opportunity to cultivate my passion for Psychiatry. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, impulse disorders, and psychosis. I offer compassionate and comprehensive services to all who are seeking a safe and therapeutic environment toward a goal of optimal mental health and wellness. Our treatment approach will be more than medication management. It will be a collaborative one; working together to develop an individualized treatment plan to address your needs.
See more therapy options for Suffolk County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Suffolk County, NY
200+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Suffolk County, NY who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
82% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Suffolk County, NY see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Suffolk County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.