Psychiatrists in Pomona, NY
![Photo of Dr. Fatima Odetalla, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f89da29a-cf07-48a5-a260-4a795db27de1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Fatima Odetalla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pomona, NY 10970
Just as lighthouses guide ships in the dark, and through storms, Lighthouse Behavioral Health strives to assist clients who are experiencing mental health issues with navigating life's challenges.
Just as lighthouses guide ships in the dark, and through storms, Lighthouse Behavioral Health strives to assist clients who are experiencing mental health issues with navigating life's challenges.
![Photo of Patricia M Waite, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb1c53a9-0ad5-4926-8507-b83c16fa3ec8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Find caring and competent treatment at Essential Medical, where we support your mental well-being. We are here for you! Let Essential Medical partner with you on your journey to a better you.
Find caring and competent treatment at Essential Medical, where we support your mental well-being. We are here for you! Let Essential Medical partner with you on your journey to a better you.
![Photo of Sadhana Sardana, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/338b65ae-5251-4c78-818c-60603d2aca11/1/320x400.jpeg)
I value the importance of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and collaboration with parents/families, teachers and other providers to understand the patient and his/her strengths and needs in the context of the family, taking into consideration the impact of the developmental, biological, psycho-social, cultural, educational, vocational factors etc. My patients describe me as a caring, empathic and kind-hearted person. I want to help people suffering from mental health issues so that they live a happy, independent, fulfilling and productive life.
I value the importance of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and collaboration with parents/families, teachers and other providers to understand the patient and his/her strengths and needs in the context of the family, taking into consideration the impact of the developmental, biological, psycho-social, cultural, educational, vocational factors etc. My patients describe me as a caring, empathic and kind-hearted person. I want to help people suffering from mental health issues so that they live a happy, independent, fulfilling and productive life.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Max Slotwinski, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d1303d6-48f1-48b8-b97e-e70b20ff7fe8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Max Slotwinski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Nyack, NY 10960
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond just a prescription. Currently, I only offer services via telehealth, so one must be comfortable with utilizing that platform. A physical office space is in my near future, but even then, I intend to offer hybrid care for the convenience and comfort of my clients. My ideal client wishes to gain insight and clarity through the psychiatric evaluation process and also find balance and quality of life via ongoing treatment.
My ideal client is motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond just a prescription. Currently, I only offer services via telehealth, so one must be comfortable with utilizing that platform. A physical office space is in my near future, but even then, I intend to offer hybrid care for the convenience and comfort of my clients. My ideal client wishes to gain insight and clarity through the psychiatric evaluation process and also find balance and quality of life via ongoing treatment.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef195133-f0f2-447f-95e7-133736f4954b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Haverstraw, NY 10927 (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 Samantha Vassor, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/160ca6cf-c023-4870-90cc-de6f7e98a687/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Vassor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montebello, NY 10901 (Online Only)
Whether you are experiencing mood swings, life transitions, lack of motivation, trauma, or may just have a general need for a safe, nonjudgmental and open space to process life’s obstacles, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing. My name is Samantha Vassor and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With several years of behavioral health experience across the life spans in underserved populations within various settings, and witnessing the effects of underestimated and overlooked mental health needs of close loved ones, I bring empathy, enthusiasm, and compassion to the field.
Whether you are experiencing mood swings, life transitions, lack of motivation, trauma, or may just have a general need for a safe, nonjudgmental and open space to process life’s obstacles, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing. My name is Samantha Vassor and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With several years of behavioral health experience across the life spans in underserved populations within various settings, and witnessing the effects of underestimated and overlooked mental health needs of close loved ones, I bring empathy, enthusiasm, and compassion to the field.
![Photo of Parvesh K Shrama - Parvesh Sharma, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d115ff-40e4-4f39-87c9-71adc13e0100/2/320x400.png)
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Dr. Parvesh Sharma. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in the treatment of adults aged 18 and above, addressing a diverse range of psychiatric issues. My expertise includes managing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, ODD, and stress associated with personal challenges or any mental illness. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to support the mental well-being of my patients.
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Dr. Parvesh Sharma. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in the treatment of adults aged 18 and above, addressing a diverse range of psychiatric issues. My expertise includes managing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, ODD, and stress associated with personal challenges or any mental illness. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to support the mental well-being of my patients.
![Photo of Varsha Vaidya Kunnirickal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b1c7fdc-2bf5-4020-8816-f5953921c5a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist (MD &NYLic) in this field since 1996. I was Faculty at Johns Hopkins Univ School of Medicine for 12 years. I have been in private practice as a psychiatrist since 2007. I currently also work as Faculty at NYU. I specialize in diagnosis and psychopharmacological management of mental illness. I see patients 16 years and above with symptoms of attention and focus issues, obesity, gender dysphoria, anxiety depression bipolar disorder, delirium dementia and psychiatric symptoms in the setting of medical illness. I also do consultations advising patients & their families about best options for them.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist (MD &NYLic) in this field since 1996. I was Faculty at Johns Hopkins Univ School of Medicine for 12 years. I have been in private practice as a psychiatrist since 2007. I currently also work as Faculty at NYU. I specialize in diagnosis and psychopharmacological management of mental illness. I see patients 16 years and above with symptoms of attention and focus issues, obesity, gender dysphoria, anxiety depression bipolar disorder, delirium dementia and psychiatric symptoms in the setting of medical illness. I also do consultations advising patients & their families about best options for them.
![Photo of Dr. Jena Simon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ebf73a3-9ab1-4c8e-a821-1402fc866087/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jena M. Simon, DNP, is a Double Board-Certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family health. After graduating from Columbia University in 2010 as a Family and Oncology Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Simon worked in New York City at a large tertiary medical center caring for adults with sickle cell disease. In this role, she became attuned to the needs of people living with chronic illness and chronic pain.
Jena M. Simon, DNP, is a Double Board-Certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family health. After graduating from Columbia University in 2010 as a Family and Oncology Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Simon worked in New York City at a large tertiary medical center caring for adults with sickle cell disease. In this role, she became attuned to the needs of people living with chronic illness and chronic pain.
![Photo of Jason Dean, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ec21f72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dean is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Dean delves deep into the root causes of anxiety and behavioral issues. Unlike many psychiatrists, Dr. Dean understands that symptoms are merely the surface of a much larger picture. By treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, Dr. Dean uncovers the underlying issues in social-emotional development, paving the way for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Dr. Dean is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Dean delves deep into the root causes of anxiety and behavioral issues. Unlike many psychiatrists, Dr. Dean understands that symptoms are merely the surface of a much larger picture. By treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, Dr. Dean uncovers the underlying issues in social-emotional development, paving the way for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Khatija Bukhari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12ce1347-0dc8-4c81-9fa5-c5b1ea8d0b34/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking a psychiatrist for oneself or a family member can be a daunting process. Recognizing this, I work to put the entire family at ease through my unique approach to treatment. I describe myself as family-centered, meaning that I cater not just to the patient, but to their entire family. Through a comprehensive intake process that takes into account cultural perspectives, I assess the individual from a developmental, biological, and psycho-social perspective. I view my patients as complex individuals who are so much more than a diagnosis. My preferred modality is pharmacotherapy, though I also provide psychotherapy.
Seeking a psychiatrist for oneself or a family member can be a daunting process. Recognizing this, I work to put the entire family at ease through my unique approach to treatment. I describe myself as family-centered, meaning that I cater not just to the patient, but to their entire family. Through a comprehensive intake process that takes into account cultural perspectives, I assess the individual from a developmental, biological, and psycho-social perspective. I view my patients as complex individuals who are so much more than a diagnosis. My preferred modality is pharmacotherapy, though I also provide psychotherapy.
![Photo of Ingrid L Montgomery - Ingrid L. Montgomery, MD, MPH, PLLC, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ccd8fa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist treating adolescents and adults suffering from stress related issues that are causing dysfunction in your life. Some issues are as simple as learning healthy coping skills and having a support system that understands you. If you are suffering from a new onset or chronic illness such as bipolar, depression, substance use disorder, or anxiety, our practice will provide both medication and therapy to help in certain cases. You will receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We provide concierge service (travel) to you in the comfort of your home or office-(postponed).
I am a board certified psychiatrist treating adolescents and adults suffering from stress related issues that are causing dysfunction in your life. Some issues are as simple as learning healthy coping skills and having a support system that understands you. If you are suffering from a new onset or chronic illness such as bipolar, depression, substance use disorder, or anxiety, our practice will provide both medication and therapy to help in certain cases. You will receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We provide concierge service (travel) to you in the comfort of your home or office-(postponed).
![Photo of Laura N Antar - Laura N. Antar, MD, PhD, PLLC, MD, PhD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4391c6a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in state-of-the-art, outpatient treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience treating patients with bipolar disorder, mood disorders, PTSD and ADHD. Most of my patients work, go to school and are able to live their lives, but have issues that "get in their way." Others experience more significant distress. I treat each person with what he or she needs, whether it is with talk therapy medicine, or a combination of both, as needed. I do not insist my patients stay in therapy for years, as independence is our mutual goal.
I specialize in state-of-the-art, outpatient treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience treating patients with bipolar disorder, mood disorders, PTSD and ADHD. Most of my patients work, go to school and are able to live their lives, but have issues that "get in their way." Others experience more significant distress. I treat each person with what he or she needs, whether it is with talk therapy medicine, or a combination of both, as needed. I do not insist my patients stay in therapy for years, as independence is our mutual goal.
![Photo of Saiful Islam, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d70b080-b3d6-45c6-ba4a-403c6e69d2c5/2/320x400.png)
Saiful Islam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over seven years of experience in psychiatry. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Hunter College, trained at Long Island Jewish Medical Center and worked as a Psychiatric Consultation Liason at Northwell Health at Long Island Medical Center.
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over seven years of experience in psychiatry. I received my Master of Science in Nursing from Hunter College, trained at Long Island Jewish Medical Center and worked as a Psychiatric Consultation Liason at Northwell Health at Long Island Medical Center.
![Photo of Steven Carroll, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/925bcae8-80b1-41c0-b2ea-44c44057b5ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steve Carroll is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. He serves clients across the lifespan and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, ADHD, Addiction, and other mood disorders. Steve specializes in the care of clients within the LGBTQ community, as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Steve was a 2020 recipient of the Ken Dunning Trauma Informed Care Commissioner’s Award, a distinguished honor bestowed by the New York Department of Health for practitioners who provide medical services to trauma survivors.
Steve Carroll is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. He serves clients across the lifespan and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, ADHD, Addiction, and other mood disorders. Steve specializes in the care of clients within the LGBTQ community, as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Steve was a 2020 recipient of the Ken Dunning Trauma Informed Care Commissioner’s Award, a distinguished honor bestowed by the New York Department of Health for practitioners who provide medical services to trauma survivors.
![Photo of Sheera Gerber, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f44c32cc-e981-4496-806a-0513ebfe8a43/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you or a loved one seeking expert guidance and compassionate care on your journey towards mental wellness? Look no further. I am a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatry and addiction treatment for individuals aged 17 years and older.
Are you or a loved one seeking expert guidance and compassionate care on your journey towards mental wellness? Look no further. I am a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatry and addiction treatment for individuals aged 17 years and older.
![Photo of Mellen Lovrin - Dr. Mellen Lovrin, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401c87ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychoanalyst, I am qualified to provide comprehensive psychiatric- mental health assessments, psychodynamic psychotherapy and medication management.
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychoanalyst, I am qualified to provide comprehensive psychiatric- mental health assessments, psychodynamic psychotherapy and medication management.
![Photo of Micah B Engel, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15ff2a27-f785-4fac-842b-906cfff227e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Micah B Engel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monsey, NY 10952
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified NP in Psychiatry trained at NYU and Touro University. I received several years of training and supervision at Four Winds Hospital and Mosaic Mental Health. I offer medication management and therapy for children and adults. My specialties include autism, pediatric ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety and OCD. I provide services in New York and New Jersey.
I am a board-certified NP in Psychiatry trained at NYU and Touro University. I received several years of training and supervision at Four Winds Hospital and Mosaic Mental Health. I offer medication management and therapy for children and adults. My specialties include autism, pediatric ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety and OCD. I provide services in New York and New Jersey.
![Photo of Dana Neal, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1156f0d2-df13-45da-81b2-45a6ffe8df01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dana Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Cottage, NY 10989 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with seven years of combined inpatient psychiatric and medical experience. I earned my MSN from Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing and specialize in psychotherapy and medication management.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with seven years of combined inpatient psychiatric and medical experience. I earned my MSN from Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing and specialize in psychotherapy and medication management.
![Photo of Dominic Joseph Ferro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4518f3e2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a general psychiatrist treating a wide array of psychiatric problems. I have experience with patients with mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders as well as ADHD. I also treat adolescents with these problems. I also have experience working with people with personality disorders. I work with some people psychotherapeutically, but I also perform diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacology consultation for people in therapy with other mental health professionals. I am also certified to treat opiate dependence with buprenorphine (Suboxone).
I am a general psychiatrist treating a wide array of psychiatric problems. I have experience with patients with mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders as well as ADHD. I also treat adolescents with these problems. I also have experience working with people with personality disorders. I work with some people psychotherapeutically, but I also perform diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacology consultation for people in therapy with other mental health professionals. I am also certified to treat opiate dependence with buprenorphine (Suboxone).
See more therapy options for Pomona
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pomona, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Pomona, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Depression |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Grief |
67% | Psychosis |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Oxford |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Pomona, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pomona?
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.