Psychiatrists in Bellmore, NY
![Photo of Jean Luther Painson - Inner Focus Psychiatry LLC, MS, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a9e12b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Focus Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Bellmore, NY 11710
Thank you for reading my profile. Yo hablo tambien el Español. I offer Video and Phone sessions, and your medications will be at the pharmacy the same day. Please note I am not in-network with any insurances at this time. As a board-certified psych NP, I'm licensed by the NY state to evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. In combination with psychotherapy, I can also prescribe medications when indicated as they can be very helpful in alleviating your daily symptoms.
Thank you for reading my profile. Yo hablo tambien el Español. I offer Video and Phone sessions, and your medications will be at the pharmacy the same day. Please note I am not in-network with any insurances at this time. As a board-certified psych NP, I'm licensed by the NY state to evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. In combination with psychotherapy, I can also prescribe medications when indicated as they can be very helpful in alleviating your daily symptoms.
![Photo of Christina Gerdes, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba9351d-6ee8-430c-a506-1e098aaebb39/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and former chief resident of the Columbia Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I provide psychotherapy and medication management for a range of life events and difficulties including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, panic, bipolar disorder, OCD, and substance use problems. I am skilled in psychopharmacology and a range of therapies including supportive therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Together we will develop a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs at this time.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and former chief resident of the Columbia Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. I provide psychotherapy and medication management for a range of life events and difficulties including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, panic, bipolar disorder, OCD, and substance use problems. I am skilled in psychopharmacology and a range of therapies including supportive therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Together we will develop a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs at this time.
![Photo of Dr. Amanda Lefkowitz, DNP, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6497a7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Amanda Lefkowitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellmore, NY 11710
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I’d like to welcome you to my practice. I am experienced in diagnosing, assessing, and providing inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care. I prescribe medications within the context of a holistic and culturally sensitive approach. From genetic testing to bio-psycho-social assessment of your situation, I am dedicated to making thoughtful and informed treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. I recognize the value of healing within the context of a positive, supportive and safe relationship. I collaborate extensively with other health care providers in your team.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I’d like to welcome you to my practice. I am experienced in diagnosing, assessing, and providing inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care. I prescribe medications within the context of a holistic and culturally sensitive approach. From genetic testing to bio-psycho-social assessment of your situation, I am dedicated to making thoughtful and informed treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. I recognize the value of healing within the context of a positive, supportive and safe relationship. I collaborate extensively with other health care providers in your team.
![Photo of Priyadarshan Bajpayi - Evolve Psychiatry, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46096e83-138b-478d-8e11-d9563d090ac7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr.Bajpayi is triple Board Certified in Adult,Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He is extensively trained in Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology. After he completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency training in Brooklyn, NY, he pursued further specialization in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at State University of New York , Brooklyn and Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia. Dr. Bajpayi has been associated with various hospitals in NY- North Shore LIJ, NY Methodist Hospital, Long Island College Hospital, VA Northport and South Oaks Hospital.Dr Bajpayi owns a private practice Evolve Psychiatry.
Dr.Bajpayi is triple Board Certified in Adult,Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He is extensively trained in Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology. After he completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency training in Brooklyn, NY, he pursued further specialization in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at State University of New York , Brooklyn and Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia. Dr. Bajpayi has been associated with various hospitals in NY- North Shore LIJ, NY Methodist Hospital, Long Island College Hospital, VA Northport and South Oaks Hospital.Dr Bajpayi owns a private practice Evolve Psychiatry.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
NOVA Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
Ready to transform your life but unsure where to start? At Nova Wellness Psychiatry, we can help you grow into a better version of yourself. Whether you're dealing with depression, ADHD, anxiety, or need a refill on psychiatric medications, we're here for you. Struggling to quit substance use? We offer the support you need. We also provide non-medicated approaches, from coloring books and journaling to vitamin supplements. Find our mental health products at Mental Health Trendz. Our holistic partnership approach ensures your care plan is tailored to you. Choose Nova Wellness Psychiatry and grow into the new you!
Ready to transform your life but unsure where to start? At Nova Wellness Psychiatry, we can help you grow into a better version of yourself. Whether you're dealing with depression, ADHD, anxiety, or need a refill on psychiatric medications, we're here for you. Struggling to quit substance use? We offer the support you need. We also provide non-medicated approaches, from coloring books and journaling to vitamin supplements. Find our mental health products at Mental Health Trendz. Our holistic partnership approach ensures your care plan is tailored to you. Choose Nova Wellness Psychiatry and grow into the new you!
![Photo of Dr. Tina Wu, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bb598af-8467-486a-bf70-e0451c6db8f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tina Wu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
I am doctorally prepared, NYU-educated and ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in providing authentic and non-judgmental nursing care. My focuses are the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and insomnia. I speak English, Cantonese and Mandarin. My approach is collaborative, individualized, holistic from a shared decision-making perspective.
I am doctorally prepared, NYU-educated and ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in providing authentic and non-judgmental nursing care. My focuses are the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and insomnia. I speak English, Cantonese and Mandarin. My approach is collaborative, individualized, holistic from a shared decision-making perspective.
![Photo of Sagarika Ray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4455e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I specialize in treating a vast array of mental illnesses including ADHD, depression, anxiety and autistic spectrum disorders. I initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation, devise a specific treatment plan that is tailored for each individual based on their age and personal needs, offer medication management, individual and family therapy. I take special interest in treating depression and PTSD in adolescents and women.
I am a double Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I specialize in treating a vast array of mental illnesses including ADHD, depression, anxiety and autistic spectrum disorders. I initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation, devise a specific treatment plan that is tailored for each individual based on their age and personal needs, offer medication management, individual and family therapy. I take special interest in treating depression and PTSD in adolescents and women.
![Photo of Faisal Rafiq, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3f4c74b-b012-4d62-ae75-75766a106e7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
According to Federal Mandate all New Patients must be seen in person, in the office to establish care…Dr. Faisal Rafiq is a Psychiatrist and has been practicing since 2008, gaining vast experience throughout the field of Psychiatry, medication management, Psychvisit is a Full Service psychiatric practice offering state of the art treatments such as Genetic Testing, TMS therapy, Spravato Treatment, Long Acting injectables for Bipolar and Addiction.
According to Federal Mandate all New Patients must be seen in person, in the office to establish care…Dr. Faisal Rafiq is a Psychiatrist and has been practicing since 2008, gaining vast experience throughout the field of Psychiatry, medication management, Psychvisit is a Full Service psychiatric practice offering state of the art treatments such as Genetic Testing, TMS therapy, Spravato Treatment, Long Acting injectables for Bipolar and Addiction.
![Photo of Ruslan Berdichevsky - MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8980e83a-303f-4d5b-b1fb-a94d8fce88e0/1/320x400.png)
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566 (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Marsha Desrosiers, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc2d04b7-8676-4ca7-b8fc-ca7572c72651/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marsha Desrosiers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
East Meadow, NY 11554 (Online Only)
I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. My passion for psychiatry stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of mental well-being as a cornerstone of overall health. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients, each with unique needs and challenges, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to each individual. I specialize in the treatment of various mental health concerns. My approach is holistic to support my patients in achieving their mental health goals. I provide telehealth services to allow for flexibility.
I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. My passion for psychiatry stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of mental well-being as a cornerstone of overall health. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients, each with unique needs and challenges, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to each individual. I specialize in the treatment of various mental health concerns. My approach is holistic to support my patients in achieving their mental health goals. I provide telehealth services to allow for flexibility.
![Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4b3cd37-bc58-435a-a8a1-3e3329bf254f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Gretchen Kretkowski-Rieger - Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/210bceac-14f7-435f-b60c-d28f6ca26a24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wantagh, NY 11793
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38787ef3-8fec-4f4a-b89f-e3be43e68adb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Daniel Moldwin, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74b83b0f-f519-499c-bf2e-fe29be55fb6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Duke University trained psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management for individuals 18 years and older. Building strong trusting relationships, providing education, and engaging in client-centered care are all important aspects of my treatment approach. My goal is to optimize each person’s quality of life, helping people to feel happier and more fulfilled. I am proud to provide clients across New York State with easily accessible, affordable, quality mental health care. xx Now offering Spravato therapy for patients struggling with Treatment Resistant Depression xx
I am a Duke University trained psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management for individuals 18 years and older. Building strong trusting relationships, providing education, and engaging in client-centered care are all important aspects of my treatment approach. My goal is to optimize each person’s quality of life, helping people to feel happier and more fulfilled. I am proud to provide clients across New York State with easily accessible, affordable, quality mental health care. xx Now offering Spravato therapy for patients struggling with Treatment Resistant Depression xx
![Photo of Anne Marie Peters - Humanistic Family Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine, BSN, MSN, NPP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a9cf5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Humanistic Family Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, NPP, BC
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566
Humanistic Family Psychiatry & Addiction Treatment is a Sole Psychiatric/Addiction Treatment Practice located on the South Shore of Long Island. As a practitioner, I provide an integrative humanistic approach caring for children, adolescent, adults suffering from mental health issues as well as provide addiction treatment to those who suffer from substance abuse disorders. I treat each individual according to the whole person not just a diagnosis. I address persons mind, body and spirit. My mission is to return a person to their optimal health & assist one to live a happy, healthier & fulfilled life. Holistic approach used for treatment as well.
Humanistic Family Psychiatry & Addiction Treatment is a Sole Psychiatric/Addiction Treatment Practice located on the South Shore of Long Island. As a practitioner, I provide an integrative humanistic approach caring for children, adolescent, adults suffering from mental health issues as well as provide addiction treatment to those who suffer from substance abuse disorders. I treat each individual according to the whole person not just a diagnosis. I address persons mind, body and spirit. My mission is to return a person to their optimal health & assist one to live a happy, healthier & fulfilled life. Holistic approach used for treatment as well.
![Photo of Tatyana Goykhberg - South Shore Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27af483f-f0f0-46c5-81e9-6d01a2b733ad/3/320x400.jpeg)
South Shore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Massapequa, NY 11758
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse licensed in NY specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and a number of other psychiatric conditions. Appointments are available for initial evaluations and follow-up appointments for patients in NY. Office appointments are available. We offer a unique perspective to patient care as we provide a holistic approach, emphasizing a connection between the mind and body.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse licensed in NY specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and a number of other psychiatric conditions. Appointments are available for initial evaluations and follow-up appointments for patients in NY. Office appointments are available. We offer a unique perspective to patient care as we provide a holistic approach, emphasizing a connection between the mind and body.
![Photo of Christyn A Grillo, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51744eff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christyn A Grillo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wantagh, NY 11793
Medication management for child, adolescent, and young adult populations.
Medication management for child, adolescent, and young adult populations.
![Photo of Joseph Sherman, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5191c87-ecd5-423e-b3cc-b5dbca61292d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Sherman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wantagh, NY 11793
I am an experienced Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master's Degree in Nursing from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing. I was honored to receive Northwell Health’s Advanced Clinical Providers Recognition Award in the Department of Psychiatry in 2019. I work with a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, panic, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and insomnia.
I am an experienced Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master's Degree in Nursing from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing. I was honored to receive Northwell Health’s Advanced Clinical Providers Recognition Award in the Department of Psychiatry in 2019. I work with a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, panic, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and insomnia.
Jiji George works in a private office at Long Island Psychiatric Services, PC. in Merrick, NY. It is a group of professionals committed to provide mental health services to residents of Long Island. Our compassionate staff provides a warm and comfortable atmosphere, knowledgeable psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric NPs and social workers. We do evaluations and provide recommendations for best treatment for you or your loved ones. We offer individual and family psychotherapy sessions, as well as medication management. We are open Monday through Friday, with late evenings availability. We do offer some Saturday hours.
Jiji George works in a private office at Long Island Psychiatric Services, PC. in Merrick, NY. It is a group of professionals committed to provide mental health services to residents of Long Island. Our compassionate staff provides a warm and comfortable atmosphere, knowledgeable psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric NPs and social workers. We do evaluations and provide recommendations for best treatment for you or your loved ones. We offer individual and family psychotherapy sessions, as well as medication management. We are open Monday through Friday, with late evenings availability. We do offer some Saturday hours.
![Photo of Shiny Easo - S Easo NP in Family Health and Psychiatry, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02f35a68-a94a-43ec-a9cb-72d1f2c8270d/2/320x400.jpeg)
S Easo NP in Family Health and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
East Meadow, NY 11554
Shiny Easo, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC: I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine, with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I started working as a nurse practitioner since 2013 and have a genuine interest in treating a vast array of psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD, and related disorders. I have experience in treating patients with medical comorbidities and has training in issues related to primary health. I believes in the principle that body and mind are interconnected which allows me to provide comprehensive care to all of my patients.
Shiny Easo, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC: I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine, with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I started working as a nurse practitioner since 2013 and have a genuine interest in treating a vast array of psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD, and related disorders. I have experience in treating patients with medical comorbidities and has training in issues related to primary health. I believes in the principle that body and mind are interconnected which allows me to provide comprehensive care to all of my patients.
See more therapy options for Bellmore
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bellmore, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bellmore, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | 1199SEIU |
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Bellmore, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bellmore?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.