Psychiatrists in Middletown, NY
Saron Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, NY 10941
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience in various healthcare settings, including acute and chronic illness. I work with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, and other related mental illnesses. I enjoy working with individuals to make a positive difference with the goal of positive outcomes in their lives, with their families, and within their communities.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience in various healthcare settings, including acute and chronic illness. I work with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, and other related mental illnesses. I enjoy working with individuals to make a positive difference with the goal of positive outcomes in their lives, with their families, and within their communities.
Bernice Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, NY 10941
Clients are not just a diagnosis and medication list. It is important for me to get to know the person individually and cater to their specific needs. I love interacting with people, learning about their life experiences, helping them through tough times, and celebrating their successes. I am fascinated by the mind-body relationship and intrigued by continual advances in diagnosing and treating mental illness. The rewarding aspect of being a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner comes from taking each patient's unique situation and working with them to provide relief of their physical and mental suffering.
Clients are not just a diagnosis and medication list. It is important for me to get to know the person individually and cater to their specific needs. I love interacting with people, learning about their life experiences, helping them through tough times, and celebrating their successes. I am fascinated by the mind-body relationship and intrigued by continual advances in diagnosing and treating mental illness. The rewarding aspect of being a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner comes from taking each patient's unique situation and working with them to provide relief of their physical and mental suffering.
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of both children, adolescents and adults for a variety of psychiatric disorders, including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I provide trauma informed care, and make an effort to compassionately treat the whole person while valuing the autonomy of my patients. Recommendations may include recommendations for medication, therapy, supplements, lifestyle and behavioral changes. I have a special interest in women’s health, trauma informed care, attachment, and integrative psychiatry.
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of both children, adolescents and adults for a variety of psychiatric disorders, including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I provide trauma informed care, and make an effort to compassionately treat the whole person while valuing the autonomy of my patients. Recommendations may include recommendations for medication, therapy, supplements, lifestyle and behavioral changes. I have a special interest in women’s health, trauma informed care, attachment, and integrative psychiatry.
Let's Talk Wellness Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
Now Accepting New Clients! At Let's Talk Wellness Counseling, you will feel comfortable and receive nonjudgmental and open communication. I work with a wide range of issues including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, trauma, anger management, women issues, emotional disturbances, autism and other life stressors. I am looking forward to serving and supporting you! I offer in office and online video-based therapy and medication management services. Contact me to discover if I could be a good fit for you.
Now Accepting New Clients! At Let's Talk Wellness Counseling, you will feel comfortable and receive nonjudgmental and open communication. I work with a wide range of issues including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, trauma, anger management, women issues, emotional disturbances, autism and other life stressors. I am looking forward to serving and supporting you! I offer in office and online video-based therapy and medication management services. Contact me to discover if I could be a good fit for you.
One Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10941 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
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.
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.
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
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.
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.
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.
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Iva Lesniak, DO, Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
Not accepting new clients
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.
John J Wang MD P.L.L.C. is a psychiatric practice focusing on lifelong care for working professionals and high functioning retired individuals. We aim for comprehensive healthcare while stressing communication and personally tailored problem solving.
John J Wang MD P.L.L.C. is a psychiatric practice focusing on lifelong care for working professionals and high functioning retired individuals. We aim for comprehensive healthcare while stressing communication and personally tailored problem solving.
Mental health issues are complex problems with the body, mind, and spirit. They demand a comprehensive evaluation to detect abnormal brain chemistry and physiology to employ an individualized and integrative approach to treat the root causes and relieve the symptoms. I have helped numerous people who are tired of the side effects and lack of efficacy of psychotropic medications and desire to achieve a healthier and happier life.
Mental health issues are complex problems with the body, mind, and spirit. They demand a comprehensive evaluation to detect abnormal brain chemistry and physiology to employ an individualized and integrative approach to treat the root causes and relieve the symptoms. I have helped numerous people who are tired of the side effects and lack of efficacy of psychotropic medications and desire to achieve a healthier and happier life.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Hello, I'm Dr. Monaco. I have a true interest in helping others and an incredible understanding of people. I am a Mount Sinai Beth Israel trained psychiatrist with years of experience in medication treatment and psychotherapy. I also have additional specialization in mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy including supportive, cognitive and psychodynamic techniques. I provide medication management, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. I have practices in Manhattan & Goshen (New York) and Denver (Colorado).
Hello, I'm Dr. Monaco. I have a true interest in helping others and an incredible understanding of people. I am a Mount Sinai Beth Israel trained psychiatrist with years of experience in medication treatment and psychotherapy. I also have additional specialization in mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy including supportive, cognitive and psychodynamic techniques. I provide medication management, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. I have practices in Manhattan & Goshen (New York) and Denver (Colorado).
Anthony Collica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Goshen, NY 10924
Not accepting new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and started practicing in 2021(PMHNP), but have been working in mental health in various roles since 2006 at 19 years of age. I graduated from Binghamton University Magna Cum Laude, with my Masters of Science. I help patients work through and over to the other side of their anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal ideation, impulse control and psychosis. My approach to treatment is a patient centered approach while utilizing medication and CBT and motivational interviewing skills. No two patients are identical, and my treatment approach reflects that viewpoint.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and started practicing in 2021(PMHNP), but have been working in mental health in various roles since 2006 at 19 years of age. I graduated from Binghamton University Magna Cum Laude, with my Masters of Science. I help patients work through and over to the other side of their anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal ideation, impulse control and psychosis. My approach to treatment is a patient centered approach while utilizing medication and CBT and motivational interviewing skills. No two patients are identical, and my treatment approach reflects that viewpoint.
Sandra M. Sarro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Campbell Hall, NY 10916
Sandra M. Sarro, has been in the field of psychiatry for over 30 years. She received her Masters degree in Nursing with specialization in psychiatry across the life span from Stonybrook University. She earned board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner prior to entering private practice. Ms. Sarro is in private practice in Syosett, NY. Her practice includes comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management and individual psychotherapy. The specialities she treats includes but is not limited to treating patients with Depression, Anxiety,
Sandra M. Sarro, has been in the field of psychiatry for over 30 years. She received her Masters degree in Nursing with specialization in psychiatry across the life span from Stonybrook University. She earned board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner prior to entering private practice. Ms. Sarro is in private practice in Syosett, NY. Her practice includes comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management and individual psychotherapy. The specialities she treats includes but is not limited to treating patients with Depression, Anxiety,
Munyaradzi Rwakonda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Otisville, NY 10963
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Munya and I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Mood disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ODD, ASD, and other mental health conditions. At Zambezi, I provide a range of several mental health services from the comfort of home through telehealth. I provide medication management & therapy in a single visit to save you time and money. Exercise, nutrition and gut health are essential for brain health. I believe in consistence, persistence and resilience towards a better version of you. No benzo's / stimulants
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Munya and I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Mood disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ODD, ASD, and other mental health conditions. At Zambezi, I provide a range of several mental health services from the comfort of home through telehealth. I provide medication management & therapy in a single visit to save you time and money. Exercise, nutrition and gut health are essential for brain health. I believe in consistence, persistence and resilience towards a better version of you. No benzo's / stimulants
Barbara Marie Marszalek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, NY 12549
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD? Are you looking to connect with someone to help you find a way to heal? To pull the triggers away from you? I offer personalized integrative psychiatric care for those struggling mentally, emotionally or with addictions in Orange County NY. I specialize in ART ( Accelerated Resolution Therapy). It is a unique approach to psychotherapy to replace negative images in the unconscious mind that triggers and symptoms of PTSD with positive ones that my clients chose, hence removing the triggers causing the intrusive thoughts to completely STOP. You are important. You are worth it.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD? Are you looking to connect with someone to help you find a way to heal? To pull the triggers away from you? I offer personalized integrative psychiatric care for those struggling mentally, emotionally or with addictions in Orange County NY. I specialize in ART ( Accelerated Resolution Therapy). It is a unique approach to psychotherapy to replace negative images in the unconscious mind that triggers and symptoms of PTSD with positive ones that my clients chose, hence removing the triggers causing the intrusive thoughts to completely STOP. You are important. You are worth it.
APM Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Otisville, NY 10963 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you noticing that life is difficult to cope with because of worries, feelings of inadequacy, experiencing changes in sleep or unable to cope with everyday life stressors? Is your child experiencing difficulties at school or home? I can help you or your child navigate emotions via brief supportive psychotherapy or through medication management. I find joy in working with individuals of all ages. As an experienced, compassionate, knowledgeable and dedicated clinician, I look forward to helping individuals improve their mental health
Are you noticing that life is difficult to cope with because of worries, feelings of inadequacy, experiencing changes in sleep or unable to cope with everyday life stressors? Is your child experiencing difficulties at school or home? I can help you or your child navigate emotions via brief supportive psychotherapy or through medication management. I find joy in working with individuals of all ages. As an experienced, compassionate, knowledgeable and dedicated clinician, I look forward to helping individuals improve their mental health
See more therapy options for Middletown
Nearby Searches for Middletown
- Beacon
- Cortlandt Manor
- Fishkill
- Goshen
- Monroe
- Monsey
- New City
- New Paltz
- New Windsor
- Newburgh
- Wappingers Falls
- Warwick
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Middletown, NY
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Middletown, NY who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Sleep or Insomnia |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Middletown, NY see their clients
93% | In Person and Online | |
7% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
38% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Middletown?
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.