Psychiatrists in Astoria, NY
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about assisting my clients with the necessary tools to help them navigate life in the way they strive to live it. Unfortunately, many people have experienced working with providers who leave them feeling unheard and uncared for. This understandably leads to frustration. My goal is to create a client centered, judgement-free zone where you feel safe, comfortable and seen. No masking, no performing.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about assisting my clients with the necessary tools to help them navigate life in the way they strive to live it. Unfortunately, many people have experienced working with providers who leave them feeling unheard and uncared for. This understandably leads to frustration. My goal is to create a client centered, judgement-free zone where you feel safe, comfortable and seen. No masking, no performing.
![Photo of Richard Alexander Groll, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4c40654-3a58-4e9e-9cd2-1b5d2311cd85/2/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Alexander Groll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105 (Online Only)
During our session, I will discuss your unique symptomatology in context with DSM-V diagnostic criteria. Any presenting health concerns may need referral for routine physical and labs before FDA approved medications can be prescribed. We will collaborate to create a unique treatment plan and discuss evidence based treatment options. At a later date, we will follow up usually within 2-4 weeks for medication management and adjust medications as needed in addition to monitoring your symptoms.
During our session, I will discuss your unique symptomatology in context with DSM-V diagnostic criteria. Any presenting health concerns may need referral for routine physical and labs before FDA approved medications can be prescribed. We will collaborate to create a unique treatment plan and discuss evidence based treatment options. At a later date, we will follow up usually within 2-4 weeks for medication management and adjust medications as needed in addition to monitoring your symptoms.
![Photo of Nabil Rezk, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e271789-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
![Photo of Celine Corona, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e683a56-830e-408b-8914-823c2f6ebec1/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Celine Corona is a licensed psychiatrist who specializes in treating children, teens and adults. She integrates techniques from the psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories into her practice of both psychotherapy and medication management. She believes a broad approach which considers the entirety of a person's life is the best strategy to achieve wellness. During this process, she aims to provide a warm, calming and healing space for those who struggle with internal conflict. Dr. Corona completed her general psychiatry training at Saint Elizabeths Hospital-Department of Behavioral Health in Washington, D. C in 2022.
Dr. Celine Corona is a licensed psychiatrist who specializes in treating children, teens and adults. She integrates techniques from the psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories into her practice of both psychotherapy and medication management. She believes a broad approach which considers the entirety of a person's life is the best strategy to achieve wellness. During this process, she aims to provide a warm, calming and healing space for those who struggle with internal conflict. Dr. Corona completed her general psychiatry training at Saint Elizabeths Hospital-Department of Behavioral Health in Washington, D. C in 2022.
![Photo of Richard Groll, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a8c4f4d-dd75-43ca-954d-06c71d642c88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Groll is an ANCC boardcertified psychiatricmental health nurse practitioner. He completed his MSN in psychiatricmental health nursing at Hunter College. He utilizes his uptodate training and knowledge of treating mental illness in the adult population. During your session Richard will ensure that he is active listening, communicating effectively, and providing you with a patient centered approach to treatment. Richard validates each individual’s experience and has proven to be respectful, punctual, and motivated when assisting individuals in their recovery and restoration of their mental wellbeing.
Richard Groll is an ANCC boardcertified psychiatricmental health nurse practitioner. He completed his MSN in psychiatricmental health nursing at Hunter College. He utilizes his uptodate training and knowledge of treating mental illness in the adult population. During your session Richard will ensure that he is active listening, communicating effectively, and providing you with a patient centered approach to treatment. Richard validates each individual’s experience and has proven to be respectful, punctual, and motivated when assisting individuals in their recovery and restoration of their mental wellbeing.
![Photo of Meredith Hobart, MSN, NP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c9fb457-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Hobart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11101
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
![Photo of Riyad Rouf, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/372f82d8-33b5-45a2-9890-85d9788fafb9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, irritability are all too common. Unfortunately there are often many barriers to reaching out for help. My goal is to minimize those barriers and make it easy and convenient to find and schedule an appointment through my website (www.naseehapsych.com). I hope to offer a safe, convenient space for clients to find relief and function at their best.
Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, irritability are all too common. Unfortunately there are often many barriers to reaching out for help. My goal is to minimize those barriers and make it easy and convenient to find and schedule an appointment through my website (www.naseehapsych.com). I hope to offer a safe, convenient space for clients to find relief and function at their best.
![Photo of Nadia Oryema, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6450090-c99c-4121-9bdd-7317fc7dc955/1/320x400.jpeg)
My practice is grounded in providing high quality, person-centered care. I am passionate about helping people navigate difficult periods in their lives and change patterns of thinking and behavior that cause distress. My approach respects and honors the unique experiences of those seeking treatment. I hold board certifications in both general adult and forensic psychiatry and have been in practice since 2018. I offer both therapy and medication management. Depending on your circumstances I might recommend one treatment modality or both. Treatment is dynamic and we would continue assess your needs over time.
My practice is grounded in providing high quality, person-centered care. I am passionate about helping people navigate difficult periods in their lives and change patterns of thinking and behavior that cause distress. My approach respects and honors the unique experiences of those seeking treatment. I hold board certifications in both general adult and forensic psychiatry and have been in practice since 2018. I offer both therapy and medication management. Depending on your circumstances I might recommend one treatment modality or both. Treatment is dynamic and we would continue assess your needs over time.
![Photo of Nader Galal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4f21fd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome, My name is Dr. Nader Galal. I'm a Board Certified Psychiatrist working in a Private Practice, in New York City. As a psychiatrist, my goal is to help you by diagnosing potential mental health conditions. I will discuss and offer my patients the best treatment options available. I am specialized in - but am not limited to - the treatment of ADD/ADHD, mood and personality disorders. If you require medication treatment options, I am able to provide medication management. If therapy is recommended or needed, my practice works with several therapists who can provide a wide range of services.
Welcome, My name is Dr. Nader Galal. I'm a Board Certified Psychiatrist working in a Private Practice, in New York City. As a psychiatrist, my goal is to help you by diagnosing potential mental health conditions. I will discuss and offer my patients the best treatment options available. I am specialized in - but am not limited to - the treatment of ADD/ADHD, mood and personality disorders. If you require medication treatment options, I am able to provide medication management. If therapy is recommended or needed, my practice works with several therapists who can provide a wide range of services.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef3d4205-57ee-4d03-a129-a6c3da66ab6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar. The brain is a fragile organ and should be treated with respect.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar. The brain is a fragile organ and should be treated with respect.
![Photo of Shanyq Salop, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d29369d-764c-45e9-84de-28a3b0cf5df3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shanyq Salop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103 (Online Only)
I help women identified with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and especially postpartum struggles live a more complete life, build self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall mood and energy level. I use a combination of medication management and holistic approaches (treating you as a whole person- mind, and body) so that you can live the life you've always wanted. I approach each person with curiosity, empathy, and passion to help you live the life you deserve. Psychotherapy, nutraceuticals, and relaxation techniques are combined with medication management when necessary.
I help women identified with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and especially postpartum struggles live a more complete life, build self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall mood and energy level. I use a combination of medication management and holistic approaches (treating you as a whole person- mind, and body) so that you can live the life you've always wanted. I approach each person with curiosity, empathy, and passion to help you live the life you deserve. Psychotherapy, nutraceuticals, and relaxation techniques are combined with medication management when necessary.
![Photo of Shelley Padgett, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94fdb0b9-025d-4901-9d5c-c599629fc3a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shelley Padgett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103 (Online Only)
Shelley Padgett is a warm and compassionate psychiatric provider. Her approach to treatment follows a wholistic model that combines talk therapy and medication as needed. She enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level. She creates a space that is safe and free of judgement. Shelley is down to earth and through empathy, she forms meaningful connections with her patients. Shelly has over 20 years of nursing experience. She is highly skilled in psychopharmacology. She specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD.
Shelley Padgett is a warm and compassionate psychiatric provider. Her approach to treatment follows a wholistic model that combines talk therapy and medication as needed. She enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level. She creates a space that is safe and free of judgement. Shelley is down to earth and through empathy, she forms meaningful connections with her patients. Shelly has over 20 years of nursing experience. She is highly skilled in psychopharmacology. She specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD.
![Photo of Destiny Bernard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f302877-393c-4811-be9e-c4ef4814277f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Destiny Bernard, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received a Master’s of Science in Nursing from Hofstra University with a specialty of Psychiatry across the lifespan. Her experience consists of hospital-based inpatient and outpatient treatment with the focus of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD and psychosis. She is passionate about helping individuals overcome their struggles and achieve optimal mental wellness through evidence-based practices and personalized treatment plans.
Destiny Bernard, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received a Master’s of Science in Nursing from Hofstra University with a specialty of Psychiatry across the lifespan. Her experience consists of hospital-based inpatient and outpatient treatment with the focus of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD and psychosis. She is passionate about helping individuals overcome their struggles and achieve optimal mental wellness through evidence-based practices and personalized treatment plans.
![Photo of Meredith Hobart, MSN, NP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ae067de-26e7-4b68-a778-e3b859c81f2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Hobart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
![Photo of Yoel Wartenberg - Empire Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d4f3bbc-b764-44fe-afdd-0c7f7714266d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empire Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11103 (Online Only)
Psychiatric practice specializing in medication management for the treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia, OCD, Panic Disorder, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Insurances Accepted, and now offering Tele-psychiatry in the New York, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island areas.
Psychiatric practice specializing in medication management for the treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia, OCD, Panic Disorder, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Insurances Accepted, and now offering Tele-psychiatry in the New York, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island areas.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d54c147-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
![Photo of Rod Louis Amazan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b95e83b-6e6a-4fff-bc94-cdb34562ccbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rod Louis Amazan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11105
Bienvenido, yo hablo Espanol. Mental Health is a very complex issue in our society. Many of us are suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, psychosis as a result of organic and environmental factors. Having a safe place with proper guidance could be the most important steps toward recovery.
Bienvenido, yo hablo Espanol. Mental Health is a very complex issue in our society. Many of us are suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, psychosis as a result of organic and environmental factors. Having a safe place with proper guidance could be the most important steps toward recovery.
![Photo of Jeremy Walsh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65478d78-96b3-4be8-933d-f188075de572/1/320x400.png)
Jeremy Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103 (Online Only)
Hello there! It can be very challenging asking for help and sometimes even harder finding the help you need. Rest assured that you will be invited to explore your thoughts and feelings in a nonjudgmental space.
Hello there! It can be very challenging asking for help and sometimes even harder finding the help you need. Rest assured that you will be invited to explore your thoughts and feelings in a nonjudgmental space.
![Photo of Mohammed Mazharuddin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1af1edda-b921-43c6-9d17-2c1beb32085c/1/320x400.jpeg)
In the realm of mental health, I am Dr. Mohammed Mazharuddin, a steadfast guide specializing in the intricate landscapes of anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Within my practice, I intertwine the wisdom of therapy with the science of medication, crafting bespoke paths toward holistic well-being.
In the realm of mental health, I am Dr. Mohammed Mazharuddin, a steadfast guide specializing in the intricate landscapes of anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Within my practice, I intertwine the wisdom of therapy with the science of medication, crafting bespoke paths toward holistic well-being.
![Photo of Olga Katz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13a6c3a2-335e-4326-afa6-4bde02e2446e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Olga Katz, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a recognized expert in treating psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents and adults. As the founder and Medical Director of Crasmere Psychiatric Services for 23 years, Dr. Olga Katz dedicated her career to improving the mental health of her patients. She utilizes bio psychosocial model which allows her to focus on the appropriate medications and psychodynamic psychotherapy to successfully treating the most challenging variety of psychiatric pathologies, including Panic Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD.
Olga Katz, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a recognized expert in treating psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents and adults. As the founder and Medical Director of Crasmere Psychiatric Services for 23 years, Dr. Olga Katz dedicated her career to improving the mental health of her patients. She utilizes bio psychosocial model which allows her to focus on the appropriate medications and psychodynamic psychotherapy to successfully treating the most challenging variety of psychiatric pathologies, including Panic Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD.
See more therapy options for Astoria
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Astoria, NY
20+
Average cost per session
$237
Psychiatrists in Astoria, NY who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | ADHD |
79% | Medication Management |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
61% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Astoria, NY see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
42% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Astoria?
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.