Psychiatrists in Beacon, NY
![Photo of Bridget Lennon, MSW, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b69bead-364b-48f0-b80d-e3c108b06960/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bridget Lennon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beacon, NY 12508
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, working predominantly with children/families and young adults in the Hudson Valley. I hold master's degrees from Drexel University and Columbia University. As both a social worker and a nurse, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings including inpatient care, family systems/school-based, and outpatient services. The goal of medication treatment is to help reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and enhance your overall well-being. I strive to use the least amount of medication necessary to achieve your desired outcome.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, working predominantly with children/families and young adults in the Hudson Valley. I hold master's degrees from Drexel University and Columbia University. As both a social worker and a nurse, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings including inpatient care, family systems/school-based, and outpatient services. The goal of medication treatment is to help reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and enhance your overall well-being. I strive to use the least amount of medication necessary to achieve your desired outcome.
![Photo of Perry D Githens - Perry Githens APRN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56c4d848-7639-49a5-b8ee-f8e5daef7351/2/320x400.jpeg)
Perry Githens has sound experience in substance abuse, long-term care settings, outpatient, and acute inpatient settings with pediatric and adult populations. He has experience in all different areas, such as residential substance abuse, alcohol use disorder, inpatient geriatric psychiatry with dementia, and mental illness in the elderly.
Perry Githens has sound experience in substance abuse, long-term care settings, outpatient, and acute inpatient settings with pediatric and adult populations. He has experience in all different areas, such as residential substance abuse, alcohol use disorder, inpatient geriatric psychiatry with dementia, and mental illness in the elderly.
![Photo of Casey Cuddy, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/057b5ba6-1e41-49f4-892c-1b9a384c55c1/1/320x400.png)
Casey Cuddy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Beacon, NY 12508 (Online Only)
You will find that I am interested in, respectful of, and responsive to your issues, struggles, and inquiries, and I will challenge you to solve problems, to heal, and to grow. We will strive to identify causes of, and strategies for addressing symptoms and problems—not take medications. You will learn about your diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options to inform your healthcare choices. Trauma-related issues and safe, optimized prescribing are the primary focuses, although psychotherapy is also offered. Please Note: I am also an in-network provider on Rula (www.rula.com/providers/NY/1164838348-casey-cuddy)
You will find that I am interested in, respectful of, and responsive to your issues, struggles, and inquiries, and I will challenge you to solve problems, to heal, and to grow. We will strive to identify causes of, and strategies for addressing symptoms and problems—not take medications. You will learn about your diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options to inform your healthcare choices. Trauma-related issues and safe, optimized prescribing are the primary focuses, although psychotherapy is also offered. Please Note: I am also an in-network provider on Rula (www.rula.com/providers/NY/1164838348-casey-cuddy)
![Photo of Perry Githens, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22aa064f-b11d-4401-9a4d-ba9ccb353705/1/320x400.jpeg)
Perry Githens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beacon, NY 12508
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I also have the ability to manage difficult complex psychiatric cases.
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I also have the ability to manage difficult complex psychiatric cases.
![Photo of Ann Rodriguez - Ann Rodriguez PC, NPP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e275d30-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that treating the whole person is essential to providing the best care for clients not only focusing on specific problem. I provide a multifaceted approach to treatment and concentrate on an individual strengths. An in-depth assessment and prioritizing of client needs is the first step in the development of treatment goals.
I believe that treating the whole person is essential to providing the best care for clients not only focusing on specific problem. I provide a multifaceted approach to treatment and concentrate on an individual strengths. An in-depth assessment and prioritizing of client needs is the first step in the development of treatment goals.
![Photo of Nadav Klein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd435a63-6587-4f57-82c8-00dcdcdff6e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
In life, we navigate personal relationships, our social and professional lives, and sometimes, medical illness. We want to feel fulfilled and meaningful. If you are looking to change and grow, I endeavor to meet you where you are to find the next step in your journey.
In life, we navigate personal relationships, our social and professional lives, and sometimes, medical illness. We want to feel fulfilled and meaningful. If you are looking to change and grow, I endeavor to meet you where you are to find the next step in your journey.
![Photo of Prof. Nancy Gartin Checchi, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CTN-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d70731f-44ad-41d3-989f-ee1c0ba3f51f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Prof. Nancy Gartin Checchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CTN-B
Verified Verified
Beacon, NY 12508
I love working with my clients and building a strong therapeutic relationship with them is a priority to me. I provide treatment to children and adults. I maintain a private practice in Newburgh, NY and offer telemedicine appointments. I am the Graduate Coordinator and a Professor for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Mount Saint Mary College. I have a therapy dog in the office who is a golden retriever named Mac. Please let me know if you are allergic or prefer him not to be in the office for our appointments.
I love working with my clients and building a strong therapeutic relationship with them is a priority to me. I provide treatment to children and adults. I maintain a private practice in Newburgh, NY and offer telemedicine appointments. I am the Graduate Coordinator and a Professor for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Mount Saint Mary College. I have a therapy dog in the office who is a golden retriever named Mac. Please let me know if you are allergic or prefer him not to be in the office for our appointments.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Varinder Singh Rathore - Northern Medical Group Behavioral Health Division, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bee4f89-5dca-4af7-9aca-cbb6fcdf0576/3/320x400.jpeg)
Northern Medical Group Behavioral Health Division
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishkill, NY 12524
Opiate addiction effects 1.9 million Americans and has the potential to destroy individuals and families but their is help.. We offer evidence-based medication assisted treatments including buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv) for opioid dependence. We offer personalized one-on-one care for every patient to reclaim their lives. Varinder S. Rathore MD is Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry with 15+ years experience with opioid dependence treatment. As a former Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical he is one of the most skilled addiction physicians in the country. We can help you. Call us today.
Opiate addiction effects 1.9 million Americans and has the potential to destroy individuals and families but their is help.. We offer evidence-based medication assisted treatments including buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv) for opioid dependence. We offer personalized one-on-one care for every patient to reclaim their lives. Varinder S. Rathore MD is Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry with 15+ years experience with opioid dependence treatment. As a former Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical he is one of the most skilled addiction physicians in the country. We can help you. Call us today.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b34876f-9207-4bb9-bf71-1c25b562ac56/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee1139d2-51ad-4e19-9ba5-e62793663119/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Diana Lankenau, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ff35b56-62dc-46f9-9146-fbde9c2c6ca9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diana Lankenau
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Chelsea, NY 12512 (Online Only)
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
![Photo of Claudine Sapini, DPN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2230c497-3f1e-4629-bdea-9f37d0e59fc4/2/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
![Photo of Rita Kimball, NP-P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f071bf6d-e5cc-4a4a-8c4f-83e2e6c56b49/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rita Kimball
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for a variety of mental health diagnosis, including but not limited to PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD. I take most insurances, including Medicare and Fidelis/MVP Medicaid.
I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for a variety of mental health diagnosis, including but not limited to PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD. I take most insurances, including Medicare and Fidelis/MVP Medicaid.
![Photo of Kristina Manich, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e206f406-0200-4dbe-b882-8a3a0e62d141/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Manich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fishkill, NY 12524
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management , I bring a wealth of experience in helping individuals of all ages navigate through a spectrum of mental health challenges.
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management , I bring a wealth of experience in helping individuals of all ages navigate through a spectrum of mental health challenges.
![Photo of Varinder S Rathore MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45307121-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"I am Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MICA (Mentally Ill-Chemical Abuse) patients. I was born and raised in the Hudson Valley and thus feel a distinct sense of pride practicing here. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at Albany Medical Center & Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Albert Einstein Medical Center where he was an Assistant Professor. I have years of experience in treating patients with a vast range of psychiatric conditions including Major Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Bipolar Disorder and ADD/ADHD.
"I am Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MICA (Mentally Ill-Chemical Abuse) patients. I was born and raised in the Hudson Valley and thus feel a distinct sense of pride practicing here. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at Albany Medical Center & Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Albert Einstein Medical Center where he was an Assistant Professor. I have years of experience in treating patients with a vast range of psychiatric conditions including Major Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Bipolar Disorder and ADD/ADHD.
![Photo of Varinder S Rathore - Suboxone Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba7a3e5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suboxone Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hopewell Junction, NY 12533
Welcome to Suboxone/Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury. Opioid/Heroin Addiction is a national epidemic and our mission is to provide outpatient Suboxone/Buprenorphine treatment for patients with opioid dependence in a discreet manner. We also have state of the art therapist and counselors. Dr Varinder Rathore MD (“DR V”) is Double Board Certified in Adult & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MAT(Medication Assisted Treatment). We are conveniently located a mile from Danbury Hospital at 72 North Street, Danbury, CT 06810. https://www.suboxonedoctorny.com/
Welcome to Suboxone/Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury. Opioid/Heroin Addiction is a national epidemic and our mission is to provide outpatient Suboxone/Buprenorphine treatment for patients with opioid dependence in a discreet manner. We also have state of the art therapist and counselors. Dr Varinder Rathore MD (“DR V”) is Double Board Certified in Adult & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MAT(Medication Assisted Treatment). We are conveniently located a mile from Danbury Hospital at 72 North Street, Danbury, CT 06810. https://www.suboxonedoctorny.com/
![Photo of Dr. Randy Ian Pardell, MD, DLFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e854ef2-23f5-4d74-99dc-13981ebb7fde/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation . Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation . Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6b5dfce-f881-4e5c-9225-7b6be2561778/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newburgh, NY 12550
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81e2368a-8691-46ef-bf2e-dc563c95eede/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Laura Van De Laar, MSN, RN, NP-P, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3ba5b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Columbia University-trained, board certified nurse practitioner treating clients from age five through adulthood. I am licensed in N.Y. and Ct. and provide thorough psychiatric evaluations with appropriate academic and testing recommendations, referrals to numerous community resources, alternative/supplementary treatment modalities where appropriate, medication evaluation/management and referrals for the right therapeutic support(s). I utilize genomic testing when appropriate or upon request. While I prefer in-person visits, telehealth and virtual appointments are also available.
I am a Columbia University-trained, board certified nurse practitioner treating clients from age five through adulthood. I am licensed in N.Y. and Ct. and provide thorough psychiatric evaluations with appropriate academic and testing recommendations, referrals to numerous community resources, alternative/supplementary treatment modalities where appropriate, medication evaluation/management and referrals for the right therapeutic support(s). I utilize genomic testing when appropriate or upon request. While I prefer in-person visits, telehealth and virtual appointments are also available.
See more therapy options for Beacon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Beacon, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Beacon, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
86% | Depression |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Behavioral Issues |
57% | Psychosis |
43% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Beacon, NY see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Beacon?
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.