Psychiatrists in Colonie, NY
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5125878-f613-4ba9-9308-3d4f41c39842/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colonie, NY 12205 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
![Photo of Laurie Pollard, NPP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a7a99d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Pollard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP, BC
Verified Verified
Colonie, NY 12205
Not accepting new clients
NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT THIS TIME. Support and treatment consists of medication considerations, and therapeutic options designed for each individual. The main focus is on current issues and the needs presented on introduction and together we review treatment options and make a plan based on your interests and requests.
NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT THIS TIME. Support and treatment consists of medication considerations, and therapeutic options designed for each individual. The main focus is on current issues and the needs presented on introduction and together we review treatment options and make a plan based on your interests and requests.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Telepsychiatry Upstate New York, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8649ac66-e262-4f27-b0b9-7a13771ae2df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatry Upstate New York
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colonie, NY 12205 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jessica C. Olivo, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf295e9a-929a-4186-9e2e-5a84d7c147a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica C. Olivo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12205 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Jessica Olivo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of mental health experience. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management follow up. Jessica provides supportive listening, compassion, and cultivates a collaborative relationship with her patients. She approaches care in a calm and therapeutic manner that allows clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves and to be proactive members in their own treatment.
Jessica Olivo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of mental health experience. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management follow up. Jessica provides supportive listening, compassion, and cultivates a collaborative relationship with her patients. She approaches care in a calm and therapeutic manner that allows clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves and to be proactive members in their own treatment.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4da96fcd-851b-4cf0-bdce-5240fecf2497/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Vera Imperiale, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daef8a0b-dc21-42c8-b247-147d96dbb884/1/320x400.png)
We all have issues in life, so let's be real. Don't let any emotional or psychological issue block your destiny or purpose in life. I believe in a Holistic approach in treating patients from ages 5-85. I care about the relationship as well as the outcome. I provide medications as well as brief psychotherapy modalities as needed. Clients can obtain an appointment within several days in person or by telehealth. I am committed to listening with my heart. Peace always begins with a smile. Let's journey together. Contact me today.
We all have issues in life, so let's be real. Don't let any emotional or psychological issue block your destiny or purpose in life. I believe in a Holistic approach in treating patients from ages 5-85. I care about the relationship as well as the outcome. I provide medications as well as brief psychotherapy modalities as needed. Clients can obtain an appointment within several days in person or by telehealth. I am committed to listening with my heart. Peace always begins with a smile. Let's journey together. Contact me today.
![Photo of Elizabeth McManus, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7457e8af-f220-41ff-8fa4-53a918a59790/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth McManus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12203 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Elizabeth and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Master's of Science in Nursing from the University of Rochester. I specialize in Medication Management, Depression and Anxiety. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
Hello, my name is Elizabeth and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Master's of Science in Nursing from the University of Rochester. I specialize in Medication Management, Depression and Anxiety. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
![Photo of Patricia Hayden Schiller, MS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/469488c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Hayden Schiller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loudonville, NY 12211
No two situations are the same and mental health needs in particular are profoundly personal. Everyone deserves competent, individualized, respectful care, but mental health providers are in short supply, especially for those who may need medication management as part of their treatment plan. If a provider is even accepting new patients, wait times for an appointment can be long and appointment times that meet your needs may also be in short supply. In response to these obstacles, my practice is structured to provide as much flexibility as possible to provide personalized care and meet the individual needs of my patients.
No two situations are the same and mental health needs in particular are profoundly personal. Everyone deserves competent, individualized, respectful care, but mental health providers are in short supply, especially for those who may need medication management as part of their treatment plan. If a provider is even accepting new patients, wait times for an appointment can be long and appointment times that meet your needs may also be in short supply. In response to these obstacles, my practice is structured to provide as much flexibility as possible to provide personalized care and meet the individual needs of my patients.
![Photo of Sarah Doyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a202fe40-76a0-4d0b-97ea-54091c0fee01/2/320x400.jpeg)
You deserve to be listened to. I will provide a thorough evaluation of your current medications and health needs. We will collaborate to make decisions based on your needs.
You deserve to be listened to. I will provide a thorough evaluation of your current medications and health needs. We will collaborate to make decisions based on your needs.
![Photo of Edele Louigarde - Uplifting Health NP in Psychiatry, PLLC., PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/483106c4-be5f-40be-a9e1-5cd850b10271/1/320x400.png)
Uplifting Health NP in Psychiatry, PLLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12205
Your mental health matters. Empowering mental wellness and navigating life's challenges. As a compassionate and dedicated practitioner, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those facing mental health struggles. Through my professional expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals on their journey towards wellness. Together we can work towards a brighter future where mental well-being is prioritized and celebrated.
Your mental health matters. Empowering mental wellness and navigating life's challenges. As a compassionate and dedicated practitioner, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those facing mental health struggles. Through my professional expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals on their journey towards wellness. Together we can work towards a brighter future where mental well-being is prioritized and celebrated.
![Photo of Mitchell Cabisudo - Vitality Psychiatry Group Practice, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3a55094-bf2e-461a-a1e3-926c33453ca2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mitchell Cabisudo is a double board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist who has been trained in different schools of psychotherapy and has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the use of life-saving medications. After completing his adult residency training in Albany, NY, he pursued further specialization in Pediatric Psychiatry at Westchester Medical Center. Dr. Cabisudo crucially understands the limitations and unfortunate repercussions of the use of medication. Therefore prior to contemplating to prescribing, he integrates the basic fundamentals yet profound complexities surrounding a person's life which can significantly dictate the overall changes in one's behavior and emotions.
Dr. Mitchell Cabisudo is a double board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist who has been trained in different schools of psychotherapy and has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the use of life-saving medications. After completing his adult residency training in Albany, NY, he pursued further specialization in Pediatric Psychiatry at Westchester Medical Center. Dr. Cabisudo crucially understands the limitations and unfortunate repercussions of the use of medication. Therefore prior to contemplating to prescribing, he integrates the basic fundamentals yet profound complexities surrounding a person's life which can significantly dictate the overall changes in one's behavior and emotions.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fb4016e-26a2-4204-bdaf-157496f23cdb/1/320x400.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 Katherine Carlton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a10de8fd-a69b-469a-a080-f228e6d9f9ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings & welcome. As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer in person & telehealth services to adolescents & adults.. I specialize in working with women facing fertility and reproductive health challenges including perinatal & birth trauma. Having worked with adolescents for decades, I enjoy guiding them through challenges. I hold a certification in Wellness Counseling from Cornell University. Diet, activity and spending time doing what nourishes you, all contribute to healing. Via telehealth & in person appointments we can explore your goals & treatment options.
Greetings & welcome. As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer in person & telehealth services to adolescents & adults.. I specialize in working with women facing fertility and reproductive health challenges including perinatal & birth trauma. Having worked with adolescents for decades, I enjoy guiding them through challenges. I hold a certification in Wellness Counseling from Cornell University. Diet, activity and spending time doing what nourishes you, all contribute to healing. Via telehealth & in person appointments we can explore your goals & treatment options.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a0292f6-004d-4449-aca5-cef029d363e4/2/320x400.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.
Alexander E Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12205
***Tele-psychiatry Offered***Children and Adults*** Medications&Therapy (therapy limited to adults-and based on availability) I take the perspective that we are all complex and should appreciate and understand as best we can the complexity rather than the view that mere molecules alone are affecting our emotional states. I aim to provide what I would expect in my own care or my child's care: an active, present, and compassionate clinician who tries to understand the person or child seeking help and assisting in choosing the best paths for my health, both physical and emotional.
***Tele-psychiatry Offered***Children and Adults*** Medications&Therapy (therapy limited to adults-and based on availability) I take the perspective that we are all complex and should appreciate and understand as best we can the complexity rather than the view that mere molecules alone are affecting our emotional states. I aim to provide what I would expect in my own care or my child's care: an active, present, and compassionate clinician who tries to understand the person or child seeking help and assisting in choosing the best paths for my health, both physical and emotional.
![Photo of Cynthia Spellman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f091d68d-ac7c-444a-908e-d139f8e479f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have an exclusive private practice, with a limited number of clients. I provide a very high level of care, with appointments available this week and 50-minute sessions that cover both psychotherapy and medication. Not your typical psychiatrist, I safeguard your privacy from Big Data's (b)reach by handwriting all records. I am available via text for quick questions between appointments. This is possible only on a private-pay basis, remaining Out-Of-Network with all insurances. Nevertheless, it's possible that your insurance might offer partial reimbursement, which requires only a simple claim form. Call to see if I can help you.
I have an exclusive private practice, with a limited number of clients. I provide a very high level of care, with appointments available this week and 50-minute sessions that cover both psychotherapy and medication. Not your typical psychiatrist, I safeguard your privacy from Big Data's (b)reach by handwriting all records. I am available via text for quick questions between appointments. This is possible only on a private-pay basis, remaining Out-Of-Network with all insurances. Nevertheless, it's possible that your insurance might offer partial reimbursement, which requires only a simple claim form. Call to see if I can help you.
![Photo of Yandama Bangura - Quality Telehealth NP in Psychiatry, PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/159b693d-c1c3-41cd-aff0-64a0325d86b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Quality Telehealth NP in Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12205 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Yandama Bangura and I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in outpatient mental health. I received my graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing in 2016. I am a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for improving mental health and well-being. With a firm belief in the power of both modern medicine and integrative approaches, I am committed to providing comprehensive and holistic care to my clients. I believe in providing non-judgmental, compassionate, and empathetic care.
Hello! My name is Yandama Bangura and I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in outpatient mental health. I received my graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing in 2016. I am a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for improving mental health and well-being. With a firm belief in the power of both modern medicine and integrative approaches, I am committed to providing comprehensive and holistic care to my clients. I believe in providing non-judgmental, compassionate, and empathetic care.
![Photo of Griffan Randall - Dr. Griffan Randall, D.O., PLLC, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/454199e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Randall specializes in Psychiatry for Adolescents through Geriatrics. She offers Medication Management therapy, Various Individual Psychotherapies, Genetic testing, Court ordered evaluations, Medical Marijuana Certification, Maternal/Fetal Psychiatric Care, and Pre-Surgical Psychiatric Evaluations.
Dr. Randall specializes in Psychiatry for Adolescents through Geriatrics. She offers Medication Management therapy, Various Individual Psychotherapies, Genetic testing, Court ordered evaluations, Medical Marijuana Certification, Maternal/Fetal Psychiatric Care, and Pre-Surgical Psychiatric Evaluations.
![Photo of Claudine Sapini, DPN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abc50bc4-e9bd-452e-a48a-e1be809d6bcc/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 Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b099ee0b-c0f5-4871-998a-311c84742728/1/320x400.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.
See more therapy options for Colonie
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Colonie, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Colonie, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Coping Skills |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
50% | Aetna |
50% | Cigna and Evernorth |
50% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Colonie, NY see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Colonie?
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.