Psychiatrists in New York
I completed my psychiatry residency at Johns Hopkins University where I continued to work as an attending psychiatrist and faculty member for 5 years. I am board certified in psychiatry and neurology and have publications in both esteemed scientific journals and textbooks. I am a proud native New Yorker who cherishes the meaningful work of helping to facilitate change in an individuals' life.
I completed my psychiatry residency at Johns Hopkins University where I continued to work as an attending psychiatrist and faculty member for 5 years. I am board certified in psychiatry and neurology and have publications in both esteemed scientific journals and textbooks. I am a proud native New Yorker who cherishes the meaningful work of helping to facilitate change in an individuals' life.
Rahim N. Rahemtulla
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a board certified psychiatrist and pediatrician, my practice involves working with individuals across the lifespan, from children and adolescents to young adults and professionals. I have also worked in a university student health service, and am well-informed about problems unique to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students facing academic difficulties or anxiety due to academic pressures. Just as every individual is unique, so is their treatment. It is my job to create a meaningful and appropriate treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
As a board certified psychiatrist and pediatrician, my practice involves working with individuals across the lifespan, from children and adolescents to young adults and professionals. I have also worked in a university student health service, and am well-informed about problems unique to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students facing academic difficulties or anxiety due to academic pressures. Just as every individual is unique, so is their treatment. It is my job to create a meaningful and appropriate treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
I'm a psychotherapist and board-certified psychiatrist who provides medication management, psychotherapy, and combination treatment. I help to manage a wide array of psychiatric challenges you may be facing including mood disorders, anxiety, panic, OCD, personality disorders, and difficulties with identity and/or relationships. My practice is informed by a personalized and warm approach where I will work collaboratively with you to develop treatment for your specific goals.
I'm a psychotherapist and board-certified psychiatrist who provides medication management, psychotherapy, and combination treatment. I help to manage a wide array of psychiatric challenges you may be facing including mood disorders, anxiety, panic, OCD, personality disorders, and difficulties with identity and/or relationships. My practice is informed by a personalized and warm approach where I will work collaboratively with you to develop treatment for your specific goals.
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from Columbia School of Social Work with a MSW and Yale University with a MSN. I have a post-masters certificate in child and adolescent therapy and have trained at the Beck Institute of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in utilizing CBT for anxiety and mood disorders. I have received certification in Exposure Response Prevention from the University of Pennsylvania for the treatment of OCD. I have also received training in parent management training (PMT) at the Yale Parenting Center.
I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from Columbia School of Social Work with a MSW and Yale University with a MSN. I have a post-masters certificate in child and adolescent therapy and have trained at the Beck Institute of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in utilizing CBT for anxiety and mood disorders. I have received certification in Exposure Response Prevention from the University of Pennsylvania for the treatment of OCD. I have also received training in parent management training (PMT) at the Yale Parenting Center.
Psychiatrist in Westchester
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10606 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
In order to assist her patients with the journey, she strives to meet each person right where they are in the life process. She values education and autonomy in treatment and wants her patients to know that she comes from a place free of judgement. Kelly aims to facilitate a therapeutic space where patients feel comfortable to speak at ease. Kellys treatment approach is grounded in empowering each individual with access and space to help themselves identify personal goals, address individual barriers and move forward. Her interest focuses on individual wellness & treatment optimization.
In order to assist her patients with the journey, she strives to meet each person right where they are in the life process. She values education and autonomy in treatment and wants her patients to know that she comes from a place free of judgement. Kelly aims to facilitate a therapeutic space where patients feel comfortable to speak at ease. Kellys treatment approach is grounded in empowering each individual with access and space to help themselves identify personal goals, address individual barriers and move forward. Her interest focuses on individual wellness & treatment optimization.
Did life take an unexpected turn? Are you feeling frustrated or having difficulty with relationships, work, or school? Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or unhappiness? We have all gone through uncertainties in our lives. You are not alone. Come and let’s talk about anything on your mind. I will take the time to listen. We will explore your life-present and past. We will understand your core self. I will help you embrace your unique identity.
Did life take an unexpected turn? Are you feeling frustrated or having difficulty with relationships, work, or school? Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or unhappiness? We have all gone through uncertainties in our lives. You are not alone. Come and let’s talk about anything on your mind. I will take the time to listen. We will explore your life-present and past. We will understand your core self. I will help you embrace your unique identity.
Psychiatric & Psychotherapy Services
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MS, NP
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725
"The mission of my practice is to provide Person-Centered Care" and empower my clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve "their" desirable goals. I've had the satisfaction of seeing my clients achieve success and their lives changed through the shared partnership and treatment planning with me. Unlike the traditional mental health practitioner who focuses only on the problems or deficits, and dominates the treatment of decision making; I focus on my client's strengths, skill acquisition, quality-of-life, and choices. I like to talk to my clients. My clients feel they are heard and understood.
"The mission of my practice is to provide Person-Centered Care" and empower my clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve "their" desirable goals. I've had the satisfaction of seeing my clients achieve success and their lives changed through the shared partnership and treatment planning with me. Unlike the traditional mental health practitioner who focuses only on the problems or deficits, and dominates the treatment of decision making; I focus on my client's strengths, skill acquisition, quality-of-life, and choices. I like to talk to my clients. My clients feel they are heard and understood.
Siji Varghese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Siji Varghese is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Siji brings an experienced, empathetic ear to every session. Her goal is to help patients enjoy their lives and relationships as they find a better balance between work and family. During sessions with Siji, patients can expect warmth, compassion, and open-mindedness.
Siji Varghese is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Siji brings an experienced, empathetic ear to every session. Her goal is to help patients enjoy their lives and relationships as they find a better balance between work and family. During sessions with Siji, patients can expect warmth, compassion, and open-mindedness.
Richard Groll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101
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.
Nichole McLeod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Nichole and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar, Burnout, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder and Stress 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 Nichole and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar, Burnout, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder and Stress 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.
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Do you feel intense fear or sadness which has your life or psychotherapy at an impasse? I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My practice specializes in the medication management of adults (in particular women) with mood, anxiety and attentional disorders. I have special expertise in treating individuals who also have medical illnesses or who are pregnant/post-partum and in need of medication support as a component of their care.
Do you feel intense fear or sadness which has your life or psychotherapy at an impasse? I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My practice specializes in the medication management of adults (in particular women) with mood, anxiety and attentional disorders. I have special expertise in treating individuals who also have medical illnesses or who are pregnant/post-partum and in need of medication support as a component of their care.
Galit Sharon Marcus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MPH
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023 (Online Only)
Are personal, school, or business relationships a problem for you? Are you depressed, angry, or anxious? Do you feel different, alone, or like an outsider? Do you have low self esteem? Are there disturbing problems in your life that you struggle to improve? Are you trying to discover who you are? I use a "toolbox" approach using one or more therapeutic techniques based on what you need. I am trained in interpersonal therapy, mindfulness, psychopharmacology, DBT skills, EMDR, and trauma-informed therapy. I am confident that my combination of skills will help if we have a compatible and good rapport together.
Are personal, school, or business relationships a problem for you? Are you depressed, angry, or anxious? Do you feel different, alone, or like an outsider? Do you have low self esteem? Are there disturbing problems in your life that you struggle to improve? Are you trying to discover who you are? I use a "toolbox" approach using one or more therapeutic techniques based on what you need. I am trained in interpersonal therapy, mindfulness, psychopharmacology, DBT skills, EMDR, and trauma-informed therapy. I am confident that my combination of skills will help if we have a compatible and good rapport together.
It is my pleasure to Welcome everyone to my practice ! I specialize in prescribing psychiatric medications to children, adolescents and adults . I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, eating disorder, addiction, and insomnia.I am board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority and have experience in both outpatient and acute settings. I see patients for psychotherapy and medication assessment. I am practicing from my office in Syracuse as well as online via telemedicine. Remember that you are not alone. I'm here to listen and support you at all times.
It is my pleasure to Welcome everyone to my practice ! I specialize in prescribing psychiatric medications to children, adolescents and adults . I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, eating disorder, addiction, and insomnia.I am board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority and have experience in both outpatient and acute settings. I see patients for psychotherapy and medication assessment. I am practicing from my office in Syracuse as well as online via telemedicine. Remember that you are not alone. I'm here to listen and support you at all times.
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
Holly Ann Woodard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Honeoye, NY 14471 (Online Only)
Hello, I am glad you are here! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner located in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. I have been practicing in multiple diverse mental health settings for the past 18 years including community clinics, inpatient hospitals, and community based mobile mental health care. I specialize in the child and adolescent population as well as have extensive experience with young adult and adult populations. My areas of expertise include: ADHD, trauma and stressor related disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and diagnostic assessments.
Hello, I am glad you are here! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner located in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. I have been practicing in multiple diverse mental health settings for the past 18 years including community clinics, inpatient hospitals, and community based mobile mental health care. I specialize in the child and adolescent population as well as have extensive experience with young adult and adult populations. My areas of expertise include: ADHD, trauma and stressor related disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and diagnostic assessments.
Melissa Merlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience. I specialize in treating a variety of acute/chronic mental illnesses with psychiatric trauma. As an experienced Military Police in the Air National Guard and a Medic in the Army Reserves, I enjoy working with veterans, supporting their mental health journey through both medication management and psychotherapy. 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! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience. I specialize in treating a variety of acute/chronic mental illnesses with psychiatric trauma. As an experienced Military Police in the Air National Guard and a Medic in the Army Reserves, I enjoy working with veterans, supporting their mental health journey through both medication management and psychotherapy. 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.
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10168 (Online Only)
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
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.
One Mind Psychiatry NP PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P
Verified Verified
Manhasset, NY 11030 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
See more therapy options for New York
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$298
Psychiatrists in New York who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
78% | Medication Management |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
69% | ADHD |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in New York see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
33% | 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.