Psychiatrists in Armonk, NY
![Photo of Lisa M Patrick, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cd38b7d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive training in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I prefer to see patients for both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, although I am open to working with other therapists. I have affiliation with both NYU and Lenox Hill Hospital and enjoy teaching both psychiatry residents and medical students as a voluntary attending. I provide patient focused therapy. I believe that everyone responds differently to different treatment and the best way to achieve their goals is to take a collaborative approach.
I have extensive training in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I prefer to see patients for both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, although I am open to working with other therapists. I have affiliation with both NYU and Lenox Hill Hospital and enjoy teaching both psychiatry residents and medical students as a voluntary attending. I provide patient focused therapy. I believe that everyone responds differently to different treatment and the best way to achieve their goals is to take a collaborative approach.
![Photo of Adam Kaufman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d77895f1-144f-4e27-8c48-8fe6f9535a91/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a board certified psychiatrist trained at Weill Cornell Medical College and NYU. I bring a compassionate and practical approach to helping you get where you want to go.
Welcome! I am a board certified psychiatrist trained at Weill Cornell Medical College and NYU. I bring a compassionate and practical approach to helping you get where you want to go.
![Photo of Erika Marshall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8c8943a-a8b7-4af3-824f-51b280214788/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist practicing in Chappaqua, NY in Northern Westchester as well as online. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (medication management) for adults and older adolescents. I treat a wide variety of mental health conditions with particular interests in anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, women's mental health and working with parents of children with special needs.
I am a board certified psychiatrist practicing in Chappaqua, NY in Northern Westchester as well as online. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (medication management) for adults and older adolescents. I treat a wide variety of mental health conditions with particular interests in anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, women's mental health and working with parents of children with special needs.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99382285-5ba7-4de3-904b-322cf681bbbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Andrea Cronin, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b670301-95e6-4f1b-8fc2-0de8ef7a3cf0/3/320x400.jpeg)
How can we help you ? I am a dual-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Our Katonah office is a small private practice. This allows us to provide confidential individual care; to include medication management and cognitive-behavioral therapy for a variety of mental health issues. I am currently accepting new patients ages 18 years and up. We offer before and after hour as well as weekend appointments. Our office is conveniently located on the main strip in town. We do not accept commercial insurance, we will provide an insurance claim form for you to submit at the end of each visit.
How can we help you ? I am a dual-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Our Katonah office is a small private practice. This allows us to provide confidential individual care; to include medication management and cognitive-behavioral therapy for a variety of mental health issues. I am currently accepting new patients ages 18 years and up. We offer before and after hour as well as weekend appointments. Our office is conveniently located on the main strip in town. We do not accept commercial insurance, we will provide an insurance claim form for you to submit at the end of each visit.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Jena Simon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ebf73a3-9ab1-4c8e-a821-1402fc866087/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jena M. Simon, DNP, is a Double Board-Certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family health. After graduating from Columbia University in 2010 as a Family and Oncology Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Simon worked in New York City at a large tertiary medical center caring for adults with sickle cell disease. In this role, she became attuned to the needs of people living with chronic illness and chronic pain.
Jena M. Simon, DNP, is a Double Board-Certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family health. After graduating from Columbia University in 2010 as a Family and Oncology Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Simon worked in New York City at a large tertiary medical center caring for adults with sickle cell disease. In this role, she became attuned to the needs of people living with chronic illness and chronic pain.
![Photo of Patricia Grendell, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccfb1b8d-c987-416f-95e9-af7debb752b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Grendell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing a wide range of acute and chronic stress and distress using a multitude of medicine-based and non-pharmacological methods to achieve increased well-being and recovery. I tailor treatment to the goals, needs, and comfort level of each individual at her or his own pace.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing a wide range of acute and chronic stress and distress using a multitude of medicine-based and non-pharmacological methods to achieve increased well-being and recovery. I tailor treatment to the goals, needs, and comfort level of each individual at her or his own pace.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Rosa, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/441d241b-c033-412c-8817-3fbcfebd9393/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Andrea Rosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10603 (Online Only)
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Georgetown University, I am a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with a focus on treating individuals with mental health disorders and autism spectrum disorders. With over 9 years of experience, I offer patient-centered care that combines medication management and psychotherapy to help patients build the necessary skills for managing their mental health.
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Georgetown University, I am a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with a focus on treating individuals with mental health disorders and autism spectrum disorders. With over 9 years of experience, I offer patient-centered care that combines medication management and psychotherapy to help patients build the necessary skills for managing their mental health.
![Photo of Michael Schwartz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd732d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Board Certified Psychiatrist, I bring a compassionate and warm approach to providing care while making well-informed recommendations as a pharmacologist. I treat patients age 5 years and older, and have a broad range of mental health care experience in the areas of psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I provide well-researched, comprehensive care to meet the needs of my clients, with their best interest in mind.
As a Board Certified Psychiatrist, I bring a compassionate and warm approach to providing care while making well-informed recommendations as a pharmacologist. I treat patients age 5 years and older, and have a broad range of mental health care experience in the areas of psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I provide well-researched, comprehensive care to meet the needs of my clients, with their best interest in mind.
![Photo of Jessica Nowillo, DO, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4db52102-a2b1-46ff-96a8-1b1ae3c76110/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment. I have a special interest in women's mental health issues that include mood disorders related to menstruation, pregnancy and postpartum, as well as menopause and other life transitions. I enjoy providing comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric treatment that may include psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication when appropriate. I am happy to coordinate with other treatment providers as necessary.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment. I have a special interest in women's mental health issues that include mood disorders related to menstruation, pregnancy and postpartum, as well as menopause and other life transitions. I enjoy providing comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric treatment that may include psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication when appropriate. I am happy to coordinate with other treatment providers as necessary.
![Photo of Margaret G Kraft, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84af4ccc-3448-4a26-aa7b-0d8bb2d9a225/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret G Kraft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591 (Online Only)
I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner (NP) in both Primary Care and Psychiatry. Given my qualifications, I use an integrative and holistic approach to treatment. I treat each client as a unique individual with unique needs. During our first visit I will ask a number of questions in order to get to know your history and your goals. After performing an evaluation, I will give you my recommendations which may include medications and/or therapy. We will work together to create a plan of care that sets you on the path toward achieving your goals.
I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner (NP) in both Primary Care and Psychiatry. Given my qualifications, I use an integrative and holistic approach to treatment. I treat each client as a unique individual with unique needs. During our first visit I will ask a number of questions in order to get to know your history and your goals. After performing an evaluation, I will give you my recommendations which may include medications and/or therapy. We will work together to create a plan of care that sets you on the path toward achieving your goals.
![Photo of Katarzyna Smigielska, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee1dd888-cb1c-44da-bdde-c68aeccbf7c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katarzyna Smigielska
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10605 (Online Only)
I have been working with the mental health community since 2013. I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in New York.
I have been working with the mental health community since 2013. I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in New York.
![Photo of Tamara Gordon, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc76feaa-a98d-46ac-8d55-6396beb8c6ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Visit our website for more info www.pnpenvision.com At Envision psychiatry, we offer comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Insomnia, OCD and ADHD. At present, we offer Telehealth and in-person session. We accept the following insurances. Cigna, Aetna, BCBS, UHC, oxford, Oscar, medicare, emblem health, GHI, 1199, CDPHP. Call, email or visit www.pnpenvision.com to schedule an appointment.
Visit our website for more info www.pnpenvision.com At Envision psychiatry, we offer comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Insomnia, OCD and ADHD. At present, we offer Telehealth and in-person session. We accept the following insurances. Cigna, Aetna, BCBS, UHC, oxford, Oscar, medicare, emblem health, GHI, 1199, CDPHP. Call, email or visit www.pnpenvision.com to schedule an appointment.
![Photo of Maggie Brother, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17ef4996-84bf-4c20-a809-3b5b841db36f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maggie Brother
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katonah, NY 10536
I am a dual certified nurse practitioner, specializing in psychiatry. I utilize an integrative approach of prescribing medication, as appropriate, as well as psychotherapy to maximize symptom relief and restore quality of life. My goal is to give you the tools to be the best version of you. I am currently accepting new patients. Feel free to reach out to schedule an initial evaluation.
I am a dual certified nurse practitioner, specializing in psychiatry. I utilize an integrative approach of prescribing medication, as appropriate, as well as psychotherapy to maximize symptom relief and restore quality of life. My goal is to give you the tools to be the best version of you. I am currently accepting new patients. Feel free to reach out to schedule an initial evaluation.
![Photo of George Isaac, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51a55191-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I (George Isaac, MD) am a board certified Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. Presently I do mostly Telemed sessions. I see Adults, Adolescents and Children over 10 . I have decades of experience with all types of patients and in all types of settings, in the United States and abroad. I am a participant provider for the following commercial insurances: Aetna, 1199, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield Oxford, Oscar- United Health Care, Empire Plan, Beacon Health commercial plan and Medicare.
I (George Isaac, MD) am a board certified Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist. Presently I do mostly Telemed sessions. I see Adults, Adolescents and Children over 10 . I have decades of experience with all types of patients and in all types of settings, in the United States and abroad. I am a participant provider for the following commercial insurances: Aetna, 1199, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield Oxford, Oscar- United Health Care, Empire Plan, Beacon Health commercial plan and Medicare.
![Photo of Joseph Rivera, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/292e5930-668b-407c-87bc-7a1904744596/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Rivera is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY who has been practicing since 2024. Joseph specializes in the mental health treatment and diagnosis of the adult population. Joseph provides an empathetic approach, while utilizing his clinical experience and evidence-based practice protocols to ensure each patient receives the appropriate level of care possible. Through his assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, he offers a holistic and individualized plan for each patient's mental health journey.
Joseph Rivera is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY who has been practicing since 2024. Joseph specializes in the mental health treatment and diagnosis of the adult population. Joseph provides an empathetic approach, while utilizing his clinical experience and evidence-based practice protocols to ensure each patient receives the appropriate level of care possible. Through his assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, he offers a holistic and individualized plan for each patient's mental health journey.
![Photo of Sheila Devlin-Craane, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a5a1ec-2ea9-4c57-a010-9eb786bc09f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Devlin-Craane
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Chappaqua, NY 10514
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc / EMDR for Trauma is a DNP, & Clinical Specialist, board certified in psychiatric mental health with more than 35 years’ experience. She obtained a doctorate at Fairfield University as a psychiatric DNP. She is also nationally certified in EMDR which is a preferred treatment for trauma and PTSD. Dr. Devlin has prescriptive authority in both New York and Ct. Treatment and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief/ loss. & PTSD. Contact the office 914 727-0621 or 203 733-0054
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc / EMDR for Trauma is a DNP, & Clinical Specialist, board certified in psychiatric mental health with more than 35 years’ experience. She obtained a doctorate at Fairfield University as a psychiatric DNP. She is also nationally certified in EMDR which is a preferred treatment for trauma and PTSD. Dr. Devlin has prescriptive authority in both New York and Ct. Treatment and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief/ loss. & PTSD. Contact the office 914 727-0621 or 203 733-0054
![Photo of Brandon Jacobi, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10a8b115-0476-401c-b465-b3106b45f067/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my practice! My approach to treatment is collaborative, and I work closely with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account their unique needs and preferences. I specialize in treating young adults, working together to pave the proper foundation to help them pursue their life goals, although I work with adults of all ages as well. I believe that the key to successful treatment is staying up to date with the latest research and literature. That's why I stay current with the latest developments in psychiatry and mental health treatment, and bring that knowledge to each patient I work with.
Welcome to my practice! My approach to treatment is collaborative, and I work closely with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account their unique needs and preferences. I specialize in treating young adults, working together to pave the proper foundation to help them pursue their life goals, although I work with adults of all ages as well. I believe that the key to successful treatment is staying up to date with the latest research and literature. That's why I stay current with the latest developments in psychiatry and mental health treatment, and bring that knowledge to each patient I work with.
![Photo of David M Brody - David M. Brody, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fcf7b5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced psychiatrist having worked with children, adolescents, and adults over many years in a variety of settings, including private practice, day treatment, residential treatment, public schools and hospital, using a variety of modalities, including individual therapy, family therapy, parent counseling and medication. I follow an eclectic approach to treatment, with a strong background in psychodynamic and family systems.
I am an experienced psychiatrist having worked with children, adolescents, and adults over many years in a variety of settings, including private practice, day treatment, residential treatment, public schools and hospital, using a variety of modalities, including individual therapy, family therapy, parent counseling and medication. I follow an eclectic approach to treatment, with a strong background in psychodynamic and family systems.
![Photo of Lauren Adis Tabone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476874fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC) providing medication management for mental health conditions in adults . I sub-specialize in the treatment of ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations to diagnose mental health conditions and provide evidence based treatment. I am trained in psychopharmacology and offer a personalized approach that is tailored to your individual needs. Treatment may include education, medication, and wellness practices such as exercise, nutrition, and other integrative approaches.
I am Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC) providing medication management for mental health conditions in adults . I sub-specialize in the treatment of ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations to diagnose mental health conditions and provide evidence based treatment. I am trained in psychopharmacology and offer a personalized approach that is tailored to your individual needs. Treatment may include education, medication, and wellness practices such as exercise, nutrition, and other integrative approaches.
See more therapy options for Armonk
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Armonk, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Armonk, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
80% | Relationship Issues |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
80% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Armonk, NY see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Armonk?
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.