Psychiatrists in Nassau County, NY
![Photo of Shariful A Syed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf0f0a60-2ca6-4743-9e11-7d57e7d35433/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an allopathic physician trained in child and adolescent psychiatry. I have a faculty appointment at Yale Univ. School of Medicine - treating the most complex mental illness in the country. I am conducting psychedelic trials for treatment resistant depression as well collaborate with leader in pediatric anxiety disorders. All of this towards the singular goal of affecting meaningful change that helps patients (and their families, necessarily).
I am an allopathic physician trained in child and adolescent psychiatry. I have a faculty appointment at Yale Univ. School of Medicine - treating the most complex mental illness in the country. I am conducting psychedelic trials for treatment resistant depression as well collaborate with leader in pediatric anxiety disorders. All of this towards the singular goal of affecting meaningful change that helps patients (and their families, necessarily).
![Photo of Dr. Govind B Oza, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2790f378-4961-4f01-8bba-e0cfade540cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Govind B Oza
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist who helped many individuals with mind and emotional disturbances since I started my training in psychiatry in 2002. I have experienced in treating adolescents and adults since I completed my training in child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship in 2007. I can provide treatment for psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression and ADHD through psycho education and medication management. I always enjoy helping my patients and families for well-being.
I am a board certified psychiatrist who helped many individuals with mind and emotional disturbances since I started my training in psychiatry in 2002. I have experienced in treating adolescents and adults since I completed my training in child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship in 2007. I can provide treatment for psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression and ADHD through psycho education and medication management. I always enjoy helping my patients and families for well-being.
![Photo of Kayanna Jonas - Jonas Wellness, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5efc8b23-61a2-48b0-b44d-70ab0b6758f5/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Kayanna Jonas DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, specializes in treating adolescents, adults and the geriatric population who are having difficulties with behavioral, emotional, and mood challenges. Our practice initiates treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative approach. Treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
Dr. Kayanna Jonas DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, specializes in treating adolescents, adults and the geriatric population who are having difficulties with behavioral, emotional, and mood challenges. Our practice initiates treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative approach. Treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
![Photo of Dr. Jacob Palathinkal, PsyD, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40003174-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jacob Palathinkal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, NP
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression.
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression.
![Photo of Ariela Frieder, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b46ce19f-5149-42f1-a8a5-58a7d08749f1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Frieder is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in women’s mental health. This includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. She pursued a residency in OBGYN in Argentina, and a residency in Adult Psychiatry and Fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in The Bronx, NY. Dr. Frieder worked and taught at Montefiore Medical Group and at Zucker Hillside Hospital where she served as the Physician in Charge of the Perinatal Program.
Dr. Frieder is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in women’s mental health. This includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. She pursued a residency in OBGYN in Argentina, and a residency in Adult Psychiatry and Fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in The Bronx, NY. Dr. Frieder worked and taught at Montefiore Medical Group and at Zucker Hillside Hospital where she served as the Physician in Charge of the Perinatal Program.
![Photo of Daina Kakana, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/763f57de-4337-490c-bbd0-cd26924ec819/1/320x400.png)
Daina Kakana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Daina Kakana and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult life’s challenges can be and believe that everyone can use support as they navigate through life. Throughout our sessions, I will always endeavor to provide a space where clients feel comfortable and at ease as they receive the help they need and deserve to live a more balanced and happy life. Often, we may feel bogged down by anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and other struggles that make life feel overwhelming. We may also feel as though we are not on the right path, or that we are too broken to be successful.
Hello! My name is Daina Kakana and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult life’s challenges can be and believe that everyone can use support as they navigate through life. Throughout our sessions, I will always endeavor to provide a space where clients feel comfortable and at ease as they receive the help they need and deserve to live a more balanced and happy life. Often, we may feel bogged down by anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and other struggles that make life feel overwhelming. We may also feel as though we are not on the right path, or that we are too broken to be successful.
![Photo of Seda Angelina Port - Zen Integrative Care, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ea1e713-7789-4821-9308-5f9ec9abd87b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zen Integrative Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Carle Place, NY 11514 (Online Only)
As a double board-certified practitioner in medicine and psychiatry, I am acutely aware of the impact of mental health on overall wellbeing. I leverage my background in critical care, preventative care, surgery and psychiatry to provide an evidence-based and results-oriented holistic approach catered to each individual. I combine medication management sessions with individual psychotherapy to achieve optimal results in a culturally sensitive and emotionally safe space for the client. My treatment plans are developed in conjunction with the client to provide focused care aimed at encouraging personal growth and development.
As a double board-certified practitioner in medicine and psychiatry, I am acutely aware of the impact of mental health on overall wellbeing. I leverage my background in critical care, preventative care, surgery and psychiatry to provide an evidence-based and results-oriented holistic approach catered to each individual. I combine medication management sessions with individual psychotherapy to achieve optimal results in a culturally sensitive and emotionally safe space for the client. My treatment plans are developed in conjunction with the client to provide focused care aimed at encouraging personal growth and development.
![Photo of Mara Weinberg, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b11a0ed-3d86-4a4a-91fa-cf17a521d9bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mara Weinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manhasset, NY 11030 (Online Only)
Life can often feel overwhelming, with the constant demands of work, family, and personal health pulling you in multiple directions. If you find yourself feeling stressed, anxious, or down, know that you're not alone. The unpredictability of life can leave us all feeling off balance at times. If you're struggling to find your footing and improve your well-being, I'm here to help. I prioritize a client-centered approach, ensuring that each individual's unique experiences and needs are central to our collaborative work.
Life can often feel overwhelming, with the constant demands of work, family, and personal health pulling you in multiple directions. If you find yourself feeling stressed, anxious, or down, know that you're not alone. The unpredictability of life can leave us all feeling off balance at times. If you're struggling to find your footing and improve your well-being, I'm here to help. I prioritize a client-centered approach, ensuring that each individual's unique experiences and needs are central to our collaborative work.
![Photo of Adewunmi Bankole At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b038d0d-06c9-49b6-8d0a-12e2d0d1dc0e/2/320x400.png)
Adewunmi Bankole At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11550 (Online Only)
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, PMHNP-BC is a doctoral prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry treating adults, children, adolescent and geriatric population. Dr. Bankole believes that care should be patient focus and holistic with best evidence-based practice.
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, PMHNP-BC is a doctoral prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry treating adults, children, adolescent and geriatric population. Dr. Bankole believes that care should be patient focus and holistic with best evidence-based practice.
![Photo of Roman Mondal, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/138bcada-edba-4768-9737-64bb43b6e449/2/320x400.png)
Roman is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
Roman is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
NOVA Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
Ready to transform your life but unsure where to start? At Nova Wellness Psychiatry, we can help you grow into a better version of yourself. Whether you're dealing with depression, ADHD, anxiety, or need a refill on psychiatric medications, we're here for you. Struggling to quit substance use? We offer the support you need. We also provide non-medicated approaches, from coloring books and journaling to vitamin supplements. Find our mental health products at Mental Health Trendz. Our holistic partnership approach ensures your care plan is tailored to you. Choose Nova Wellness Psychiatry and grow into the new you!
Ready to transform your life but unsure where to start? At Nova Wellness Psychiatry, we can help you grow into a better version of yourself. Whether you're dealing with depression, ADHD, anxiety, or need a refill on psychiatric medications, we're here for you. Struggling to quit substance use? We offer the support you need. We also provide non-medicated approaches, from coloring books and journaling to vitamin supplements. Find our mental health products at Mental Health Trendz. Our holistic partnership approach ensures your care plan is tailored to you. Choose Nova Wellness Psychiatry and grow into the new you!
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Mindful Integral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing psychiatry for over seven years. I have treated patients from all diverse groups. At present, I only conduct psychiatric evaluations and follow-up assessments in the adult and the geriatric population. I specialize in treating behavioral, psychotic, bipolar, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. My hope as a mental health provider is to collaborate with patients and/or their significant other through the implementation of a holistic approach in devising a treatment plan to address mental disorders, symptoms, and/or issues.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing psychiatry for over seven years. I have treated patients from all diverse groups. At present, I only conduct psychiatric evaluations and follow-up assessments in the adult and the geriatric population. I specialize in treating behavioral, psychotic, bipolar, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. My hope as a mental health provider is to collaborate with patients and/or their significant other through the implementation of a holistic approach in devising a treatment plan to address mental disorders, symptoms, and/or issues.
I am a Board certified Adult Psychiatrist practicing for last 20 years in Queens. Trained at Albert Einstein college of Medicine and Long island Jewish Hospital. Teach Medical students and Psychiatric residents. Work with major Psychiatric disorder including Depression ,Anxiety disorder, Eating disorder, and Bipolar disorder. Always provide the most comfortable and emphatic environment to discuss any issues and enjoy coordinating the care between Psychotherapist and Psychiatrist. I believe combining Psychotherapy and Medication gives the best possible outcome. I understand every person is unique and needs individualized treatment.
I am a Board certified Adult Psychiatrist practicing for last 20 years in Queens. Trained at Albert Einstein college of Medicine and Long island Jewish Hospital. Teach Medical students and Psychiatric residents. Work with major Psychiatric disorder including Depression ,Anxiety disorder, Eating disorder, and Bipolar disorder. Always provide the most comfortable and emphatic environment to discuss any issues and enjoy coordinating the care between Psychotherapist and Psychiatrist. I believe combining Psychotherapy and Medication gives the best possible outcome. I understand every person is unique and needs individualized treatment.
![Photo of Veronica Ogula, PMHNP, DNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/636cd868-4728-4550-860c-8b5d7d7ba67b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Ogula
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, BC
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581 (Online Only)
"I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of inpatient and out-patient mental healthcare experience. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and managing mental health conditions, including psychiatric medications and individual therapy".
"I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of inpatient and out-patient mental healthcare experience. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and managing mental health conditions, including psychiatric medications and individual therapy".
![Photo of Ketie D Saintelus, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c02a00bc-fa6b-48ca-bf49-917bc9c150f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ketie D Saintelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11550
Hello, my name is Ketie Saintelus, I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 23 years of Nursing experience providing family-centered healthcare to patients of all ages. Mental Illness is real and it can take a toll on you. It is time to take charge of your life, stop procrastinating, do no be afraid and seek help. Simply ask me how? I am here to hear you, to help you feel well, to help you smile, and to help you appreciate you and fall in love with you all over again.
Hello, my name is Ketie Saintelus, I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 23 years of Nursing experience providing family-centered healthcare to patients of all ages. Mental Illness is real and it can take a toll on you. It is time to take charge of your life, stop procrastinating, do no be afraid and seek help. Simply ask me how? I am here to hear you, to help you feel well, to help you smile, and to help you appreciate you and fall in love with you all over again.
![Photo of Wendy Coster, MS, PMHNP, -BC, ANP, -C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/160ab8cd-e9cb-4464-8b38-f21a8f15ee26/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Coster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC, ANP, -C
Verified Verified
Bayville, NY 11709 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I’ve been practicing in medicine for two decades; first as an RN, and then as an Adult NP. I worked with clients through depression, anxiety, grief, sleep disorders, pain, and chronic and acute medical conditions, for end of life care, and interventional procedures. After seeing the difficulty my patients were having accessing more specialized mental health care, I decided to advance my degree and completed my Post Masters as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan at SUNY Stony Brook. I offer mental health care in NY & CT primarily via telehealth and meet with clients in person on an as needed basis.
Welcome! I’ve been practicing in medicine for two decades; first as an RN, and then as an Adult NP. I worked with clients through depression, anxiety, grief, sleep disorders, pain, and chronic and acute medical conditions, for end of life care, and interventional procedures. After seeing the difficulty my patients were having accessing more specialized mental health care, I decided to advance my degree and completed my Post Masters as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan at SUNY Stony Brook. I offer mental health care in NY & CT primarily via telehealth and meet with clients in person on an as needed basis.
![Photo of Kaleen Boyd, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/409cb524-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of clinical experience. I currently maintain a clinical position in Brooklyn, NY at a non for profit client centered outpatient community health program. I specialize in adult mental health treatment; notably assessing patients with various mental health conditions, formulating diagnoses and offering treatment options.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of clinical experience. I currently maintain a clinical position in Brooklyn, NY at a non for profit client centered outpatient community health program. I specialize in adult mental health treatment; notably assessing patients with various mental health conditions, formulating diagnoses and offering treatment options.
![Photo of Ali Khan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d2e0e1c-b49c-4da3-938a-9637a106f52b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical Assistant Professor in Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Inpatient Medical Director at Bellevue Hospital/NYU and Per-diem ER psychiatrist at Cohen's Children Hospital. My professional background involves working in inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and community treatment, catering to individuals across all age groups. Beyond clinical practice, I have actively engaged with national medical organizations and contributed to initiatives supporting both physicians and patients. I have published widely in the form of case reports, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis.
I am a Clinical Assistant Professor in Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Inpatient Medical Director at Bellevue Hospital/NYU and Per-diem ER psychiatrist at Cohen's Children Hospital. My professional background involves working in inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and community treatment, catering to individuals across all age groups. Beyond clinical practice, I have actively engaged with national medical organizations and contributed to initiatives supporting both physicians and patients. I have published widely in the form of case reports, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis.
![Photo of Deepak Kumar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/367fa83e-f903-46a4-8244-9283e72eb72d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deepak Kumar M.D., M.S. is an adult board-certified psychiatrist, licensed in CA, TX, NY, FL, PA, and MO. He has worked since 2010 in 9 states and in all kinds of settings from inpatient, IOP/PHP, and outpatient to state hospitals, correctional facilities and tele-psychiatry.
Deepak Kumar M.D., M.S. is an adult board-certified psychiatrist, licensed in CA, TX, NY, FL, PA, and MO. He has worked since 2010 in 9 states and in all kinds of settings from inpatient, IOP/PHP, and outpatient to state hospitals, correctional facilities and tele-psychiatry.
![Photo of Sagarika Ray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4455e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I specialize in treating a vast array of mental illnesses including ADHD, depression, anxiety and autistic spectrum disorders. I initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation, devise a specific treatment plan that is tailored for each individual based on their age and personal needs, offer medication management, individual and family therapy. I take special interest in treating depression and PTSD in adolescents and women.
I am a double Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I specialize in treating a vast array of mental illnesses including ADHD, depression, anxiety and autistic spectrum disorders. I initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation, devise a specific treatment plan that is tailored for each individual based on their age and personal needs, offer medication management, individual and family therapy. I take special interest in treating depression and PTSD in adolescents and women.
See more therapy options for Nassau County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Nassau County, NY
200+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Nassau County, NY who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
72% | Medication Management |
69% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | ADHD |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Nassau County, NY see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
34% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Nassau County?
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.