Psychiatrists in Buffalo, NY
![Photo of Natasha Christina Manning-Pearson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9bc7e26-8460-4c65-802b-014baa1a25a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natasha Christina Manning-Pearson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14215 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I aim to provide quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan. She utilizes evidence-based guidelines in addition to clinical experience, personal observation, and clinical judgment through her practice. As a PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including adjunct educator, and mental health advocate. I believe in providing person-centered care and treating the whole person to achieve positive patient outcomes.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). I aim to provide quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan. She utilizes evidence-based guidelines in addition to clinical experience, personal observation, and clinical judgment through her practice. As a PMHNP, my role is multifaceted, including adjunct educator, and mental health advocate. I believe in providing person-centered care and treating the whole person to achieve positive patient outcomes.
![Photo of Anne Hewitt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae37698e-a047-4de2-bd25-417d548fbceb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I've experienced firsthand the weight of anxiety and the grip of depression. But from these struggles, I've emerged with a burning resolve to be a light for others. My aim is to serve as a beacon of hope and understanding, offering compassionate care rooted in honesty and clinical expertise. My approach to treatment is grounded in the belief that healing begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood.
I've experienced firsthand the weight of anxiety and the grip of depression. But from these struggles, I've emerged with a burning resolve to be a light for others. My aim is to serve as a beacon of hope and understanding, offering compassionate care rooted in honesty and clinical expertise. My approach to treatment is grounded in the belief that healing begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood.
![Photo of Brenda Lis, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c82f1c-1b02-4b43-8bee-d0ddc52c9c8a/2/320x400.png)
Having grown up in an economically disadvantaged community, I witnessed the toll that mental illness can take on individuals and their families; and having raised three children on my own, I know what it is to struggle. My experiences fueled my passion for mental health care, and I bring this empathy and understanding to every patient interaction. I am deeply committed to helping my patients overcome their challenges and treating each individual with the same care and attention I would give to my own loved ones.
Having grown up in an economically disadvantaged community, I witnessed the toll that mental illness can take on individuals and their families; and having raised three children on my own, I know what it is to struggle. My experiences fueled my passion for mental health care, and I bring this empathy and understanding to every patient interaction. I am deeply committed to helping my patients overcome their challenges and treating each individual with the same care and attention I would give to my own loved ones.
![Photo of Marion Fitzsimmons, PhD, NP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f67eb674-2ad6-45d8-b9fb-0bd6dea81554/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marion Fitzsimmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, NP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14218 (Online Only)
When the worry, or the pain, or the fear of our current situation is standing in front of us like a brick wall, what if we could see beyond that present wall? Would seeing what lies beyond the present change how it's affecting us? When triggered by the right stressors, the genes we are born with can lead to anxiety, depression, mood swings, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations. And throughout life, we may experience abuse, neglect, loss, poverty, trauma and situations that make us feel “stuck.”
When the worry, or the pain, or the fear of our current situation is standing in front of us like a brick wall, what if we could see beyond that present wall? Would seeing what lies beyond the present change how it's affecting us? When triggered by the right stressors, the genes we are born with can lead to anxiety, depression, mood swings, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations. And throughout life, we may experience abuse, neglect, loss, poverty, trauma and situations that make us feel “stuck.”
![Photo of Colleen Russo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b340e5a-416e-4ad0-9644-c459fd8a2d8f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please contact the office after September 1, 2022 to schedule new patient intake appointments and follow up appointments. If you are an existing patient you will not require an initial intake at the new location. All initial intakes are required to be in-person.
Please contact the office after September 1, 2022 to schedule new patient intake appointments and follow up appointments. If you are an existing patient you will not require an initial intake at the new location. All initial intakes are required to be in-person.
![Photo of Amanda Block, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62cc2584-ceb6-44df-b3a1-83a6b806f118/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer services to both pediatric and adult clients, ages 8 + up at my small privately owned practice; Manifest Wellness. Appointments can be conducted in person or virtually via telehealth.
I offer services to both pediatric and adult clients, ages 8 + up at my small privately owned practice; Manifest Wellness. Appointments can be conducted in person or virtually via telehealth.
![Photo of Melissa Archer - Senses Medical Wellness, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b278fe9c-dffe-4c63-94f0-18fcb4765c32/1/320x400.jpeg)
Senses Medical Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14204
Everyone wants to have a good quality of life! Sometimes it may be difficult, because we may not have the right tools, know how to use the right tools and/or how to cope if/when those tools are not effective. At Senses Medical Wellness, PLLC, our goal is to help individuals and families find the best tools and coping strategies so they can live the life they want by meeting their goals. We do this by serving our patients and their families.
Everyone wants to have a good quality of life! Sometimes it may be difficult, because we may not have the right tools, know how to use the right tools and/or how to cope if/when those tools are not effective. At Senses Medical Wellness, PLLC, our goal is to help individuals and families find the best tools and coping strategies so they can live the life they want by meeting their goals. We do this by serving our patients and their families.
![Photo of Dr. Char'lese Perry - Perry Psychiatric Wellness, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11de5e07-ed7d-4614-84de-7f941f2114b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Perry Psychiatric Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14226
Utilizing basic psychotherapy, I meet clients at their level of need, helping to set and achieve practical goals for treatment. In most cases, I work with your current therapist to provide medication management.
Utilizing basic psychotherapy, I meet clients at their level of need, helping to set and achieve practical goals for treatment. In most cases, I work with your current therapist to provide medication management.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccde833b-4f21-4eb4-b301-289706436873/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
![Photo of Debra J Stacey, MSNE, AGPCNP, FPMHNP, APRN, CDE, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e13795-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Debra J Stacey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSNE, AGPCNP, FPMHNP, APRN, CDE
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14225 (Online Only)
Telehealth visits available! I have an extensive nursing practice history in almost every inpatient and outpatient area specializing in Primary Care, Women's Health, Diabetes, Mental Health and Chronic Disease management providing a more comprehensive outcome improving both mental and physical health. As a nurse, I utilize a more proactive and wellness based approach to partner with clients in the areas of diagnosis and treatment. Individual sessions can be scheduled for psychiatric/mental health evaluation, management and psychotherapy. Onsite counseling is also available.
Telehealth visits available! I have an extensive nursing practice history in almost every inpatient and outpatient area specializing in Primary Care, Women's Health, Diabetes, Mental Health and Chronic Disease management providing a more comprehensive outcome improving both mental and physical health. As a nurse, I utilize a more proactive and wellness based approach to partner with clients in the areas of diagnosis and treatment. Individual sessions can be scheduled for psychiatric/mental health evaluation, management and psychotherapy. Onsite counseling is also available.
![Photo of Cynthia Susan Miller, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9cf588a-cc65-4837-a796-558f0bde0b5f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Miller is a well-rounded Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides exceptional care. Her passion for the mental health field began while serving eleven years as a medic in the military. She has a unique prospective on providing care as she has both experienced and observed fellow service members overcome their struggle with mental health following her return from two separate tours of duty in Afghanistan. Throughout her military career she earned several distinguished awards for her exceptional performance. Following her military career she worked at an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she gained vital knowledge.
Cynthia Miller is a well-rounded Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides exceptional care. Her passion for the mental health field began while serving eleven years as a medic in the military. She has a unique prospective on providing care as she has both experienced and observed fellow service members overcome their struggle with mental health following her return from two separate tours of duty in Afghanistan. Throughout her military career she earned several distinguished awards for her exceptional performance. Following her military career she worked at an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she gained vital knowledge.
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Are you on psychiatric medications and feel that they are not working for you? Have you thought you might need to go on medication but are scared of the side effects or how they will make you feel? Have you frequently been engulfed in overwhelming depression, yet occasionally find yourself unexpectedly elated? Do you ever feel crippled by anxiety. Do you want to take care of your mental health in natural ways but don't know how If these things resonate, you may be in the right place. I specialize in Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, Women's Mental Health and Vegan Mental Health through Holistic Medicine Practice.
Are you on psychiatric medications and feel that they are not working for you? Have you thought you might need to go on medication but are scared of the side effects or how they will make you feel? Have you frequently been engulfed in overwhelming depression, yet occasionally find yourself unexpectedly elated? Do you ever feel crippled by anxiety. Do you want to take care of your mental health in natural ways but don't know how If these things resonate, you may be in the right place. I specialize in Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, Women's Mental Health and Vegan Mental Health through Holistic Medicine Practice.
![Photo of Michael Victor, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4084f090-e43b-446c-baf2-ab5124432b95/1/320x400.png)
Michael Victor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14217 (Online Only)
I believe mental wellness should be viewed no differently than physical wellness! The same time, effort, and dedication invested in taking care of your body should also be applied to your mental well-being. Together, we will assess and diagnose your mental health concerns and identify evidence-based treatments — including behavioral interventions and medication management. I believe in maintaining a "lowest and fewest" approach — or the lowest dose and fewest number of medications to address your areas of concern.
I believe mental wellness should be viewed no differently than physical wellness! The same time, effort, and dedication invested in taking care of your body should also be applied to your mental well-being. Together, we will assess and diagnose your mental health concerns and identify evidence-based treatments — including behavioral interventions and medication management. I believe in maintaining a "lowest and fewest" approach — or the lowest dose and fewest number of medications to address your areas of concern.
![Photo of Sandra Okengwu - Sandra Okengwu (Licensed in Tennessee/New York), PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82b8787e-5067-43f2-8ead-2446df8c0f28/7/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Okengwu (Licensed in Tennessee/New York)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14228 (Online Only)
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as your dedicated mental health provider. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in New York State and Tennessee State. With a deep passion for helping others and over 15 years of experience as a mental health nurse, I am honored to serve as your trusted ally on your journey towards improved mental well-being.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as your dedicated mental health provider. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in New York State and Tennessee State. With a deep passion for helping others and over 15 years of experience as a mental health nurse, I am honored to serve as your trusted ally on your journey towards improved mental well-being.
![Photo of Gregory L Gass, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30e06179-3583-4810-941b-0df585d43d23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gregory L Gass
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14201 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
MY NEW YORK PRACTICE IS TELEPSYCHIATRY ONLY. You must meet criteria for on-line sessions, but may live anywhere in the state of New York.I provide psychiatric & psychopharmacological assessment & treatment for adolescents & young adults.I appreciate a collaborative approach with individuals, their parents, & their therapist, focusing on how each might currently be suffering, directing each to the treatment that best suits their needs. Each individual will be an active participant in treatment planning with success & understanding as goals.
MY NEW YORK PRACTICE IS TELEPSYCHIATRY ONLY. You must meet criteria for on-line sessions, but may live anywhere in the state of New York.I provide psychiatric & psychopharmacological assessment & treatment for adolescents & young adults.I appreciate a collaborative approach with individuals, their parents, & their therapist, focusing on how each might currently be suffering, directing each to the treatment that best suits their needs. Each individual will be an active participant in treatment planning with success & understanding as goals.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd6d0a7b-e04e-4c65-9d10-d72f2606f293/1/320x400.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 Sarah Lynn Otwell, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fabae05-677e-4449-ac6a-8fbc3711336d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Lynn Otwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14228
Not accepting new clients
Currently NOT taking new patients at the moment. Here to help people who are ready to be active in their treatment and improve their quality of life. PLEASE email me at sarahotwellnp(at)gmail.com for the quickest response. I take blue cross blue shield/highmark, Independent health and Univera. Once I review email I will contact you personally to set up an appointment. Response may take a few days, your patience is appreciated!
Currently NOT taking new patients at the moment. Here to help people who are ready to be active in their treatment and improve their quality of life. PLEASE email me at sarahotwellnp(at)gmail.com for the quickest response. I take blue cross blue shield/highmark, Independent health and Univera. Once I review email I will contact you personally to set up an appointment. Response may take a few days, your patience is appreciated!
![Photo of Mary Arlow, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8eee6e9-cfb6-41e7-b62e-118a2f0ef9b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Arlow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14220
Not accepting new clients
My journey into providing mental health services for the community began about 16 years ago while I was employed as a registered nurse at a local hospital. After being assigned to the hospital's inpatient mental health unit, I fell in love with the specialty. I have focused my career on providing mental health services since. I have gained well rounded experience in the field of mental health over the past sixteen years, and have worked in a variety of different settings including the psychiatric emergency room, inpatient hospital, outpatient clinics, and education.
My journey into providing mental health services for the community began about 16 years ago while I was employed as a registered nurse at a local hospital. After being assigned to the hospital's inpatient mental health unit, I fell in love with the specialty. I have focused my career on providing mental health services since. I have gained well rounded experience in the field of mental health over the past sixteen years, and have worked in a variety of different settings including the psychiatric emergency room, inpatient hospital, outpatient clinics, and education.
Emily Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14226 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management in adults ages 18 and older. I work with clients from all different backgrounds including those who have a history of receiving mental health treatment in the past and those who are seeking help for the first time.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management in adults ages 18 and older. I work with clients from all different backgrounds including those who have a history of receiving mental health treatment in the past and those who are seeking help for the first time.
![Photo of Nicholas Ravvin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62d27a86-82a2-403f-b621-f7250a960246/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients today! I work together with patients with a variety of diagnoses and are interested in learning more about themselves, meeting personal goals, and discussing whether medications may play a central role in their journey.
Accepting new patients today! I work together with patients with a variety of diagnoses and are interested in learning more about themselves, meeting personal goals, and discussing whether medications may play a central role in their journey.
See more therapy options for Buffalo
Nearby Searches for Buffalo
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Buffalo, NY
100+
Average cost per session
$215
Psychiatrists in Buffalo, NY who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
85% | Medication Management |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Buffalo, NY see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
26% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Buffalo?
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.