Psychiatrists in Purchase, NY
![Photo of Mohsin S Ahmed, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d9741a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you seeking a caring and compassionate provider who is attentive to your various dimensions: emotional, biological, cultural, and spiritual? Mohsin Ahmed, MD, PhD is a Columbia, Cambridge, and Cornell University educated and trained psychiatrist and neuroscientist who uniquely tailors an integrative approach for each individual. He is an expert in supportive, psychodynamic, and medication therapies and draws on the latest medical, neuroscientific, and holistic advances. He specializes in treatments for ADHD, mood/anxiety, memory and concentration issues, and difficulties with work, relationship, and cultural identity stressors.
Are you seeking a caring and compassionate provider who is attentive to your various dimensions: emotional, biological, cultural, and spiritual? Mohsin Ahmed, MD, PhD is a Columbia, Cambridge, and Cornell University educated and trained psychiatrist and neuroscientist who uniquely tailors an integrative approach for each individual. He is an expert in supportive, psychodynamic, and medication therapies and draws on the latest medical, neuroscientific, and holistic advances. He specializes in treatments for ADHD, mood/anxiety, memory and concentration issues, and difficulties with work, relationship, and cultural identity stressors.
![Photo of Arashinder Dhaliwal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d526ce5-0993-4f55-920a-c31577a419d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arashinder Dhaliwal has 10+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. He believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. He partners with his patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy. He has special interest in anxiety, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, first break psychosis, trauma associated mental health disorders and ADHD.
Arashinder Dhaliwal has 10+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. He believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. He partners with his patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy. He has special interest in anxiety, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, first break psychosis, trauma associated mental health disorders and ADHD.
![Photo of Edisa Korac, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b92bab3f-3775-4fe1-abc6-684525bd348a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edisa Korac is a Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BA in Psychology (Summa Cum Laude), a BSN in Nursing (Magna Cum Laude), and an MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Magna Cum Laude) from Hunter College. As a health professional for over 7 years, Edisa has seen so much suffering but has also seen the natural human propensity to veer towards hope. Hope keeps us all going and it's the driving force behind why she is where she is today. Edisa can empathize with clients and instill hope with her holistic view of health.
Edisa Korac is a Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BA in Psychology (Summa Cum Laude), a BSN in Nursing (Magna Cum Laude), and an MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Magna Cum Laude) from Hunter College. As a health professional for over 7 years, Edisa has seen so much suffering but has also seen the natural human propensity to veer towards hope. Hope keeps us all going and it's the driving force behind why she is where she is today. Edisa can empathize with clients and instill hope with her holistic view of health.
![Photo of Tara Eyma, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57c47ab4-ffb9-473d-8581-85122471d6d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Eyma is a board certified psychiatrist licensed to practice in both New York and Connecticut. She is a graduate of the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education/City College of New York (a combined BS/MD program) and obtained her medical degree from Albany Medical College. She has been a staff psychiatrist at Montefiore Medical Center and Yale New Haven Hospital. She has a particular interest in cross-cultural psychiatry and global mental health. She spent two years working in a mental health clinic in the Wellington region of New Zealand providing care to a diverse patient population including Maori and Pasifika people.
Dr. Eyma is a board certified psychiatrist licensed to practice in both New York and Connecticut. She is a graduate of the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education/City College of New York (a combined BS/MD program) and obtained her medical degree from Albany Medical College. She has been a staff psychiatrist at Montefiore Medical Center and Yale New Haven Hospital. She has a particular interest in cross-cultural psychiatry and global mental health. She spent two years working in a mental health clinic in the Wellington region of New Zealand providing care to a diverse patient population including Maori and Pasifika people.
![Photo of Dr. Ben Wan - LIC Psychiatry, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d62fd2d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ben Wan is a board-certified psychiatrist providing individualized treatment for adults suffering from depression and anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and other issues related to work and relationships. Dr. Wan provides psychoanalytic psychotherapy informed by more recent advances in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness theory. When indicated, Dr. Wan also recommends and prescribes medication.
Dr. Ben Wan is a board-certified psychiatrist providing individualized treatment for adults suffering from depression and anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and other issues related to work and relationships. Dr. Wan provides psychoanalytic psychotherapy informed by more recent advances in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness theory. When indicated, Dr. Wan also recommends and prescribes medication.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Nicholas Obertis, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0913f06-194e-45d9-b417-fee31f6e75fc/2/320x400.png)
Nicolas is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York
Nicolas is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York
![Photo of Jodie Deignan, PMHNPBC, MT-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67f00af3-c64b-4c8c-8005-9b573c61fd8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jodie Deignan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10605
Are you or your child currently seeing a therapist you love, but you’ve decided it’s time to think about adding psychiatric medication? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about medication, but you’re worried about having to try several medications before finding one that works? Maybe you're looking for someone who can take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to find the right medication for you or your child? I bet it's important to you that you don't have to change therapists to add medication, as well.
Are you or your child currently seeing a therapist you love, but you’ve decided it’s time to think about adding psychiatric medication? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about medication, but you’re worried about having to try several medications before finding one that works? Maybe you're looking for someone who can take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to find the right medication for you or your child? I bet it's important to you that you don't have to change therapists to add medication, as well.
![Photo of Stephen L Stern, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c477a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thanks very much for viewing my profile. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who's very knowledgeable about helping people with depression, bipolar disorder, medical illnesses, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition to medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy, I'm also interested in the complementary use of meditation, mindfulness, exercise, light therapy, and companion animals. I believe that the key to successful treatment is a thorough biological, psychological, and social assessment followed by shared decision-making between patient and doctor. Please feel free to contact me for a phone consultation at no charge.
Thanks very much for viewing my profile. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who's very knowledgeable about helping people with depression, bipolar disorder, medical illnesses, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition to medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy, I'm also interested in the complementary use of meditation, mindfulness, exercise, light therapy, and companion animals. I believe that the key to successful treatment is a thorough biological, psychological, and social assessment followed by shared decision-making between patient and doctor. Please feel free to contact me for a phone consultation at no charge.
![Photo of Shoudu Zeng, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439f6086-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
When you are very depressed, you seem to fall into a deep black hole and have no way out. When you are extremely anxious, you want to jump out of your skin. When you are in panic mode, you feel like you are going to die. They are all your perception and can be changed as long as you decide to seek help from professionals. Another example is ADHD. For those people, life is a struggle. It does not have to be that way. Treatments can be a game changer. Good sleep, healthy diet and regular exercise are all important although stimulant is corner stone of the treatments. Consultation can make difference for your life. I am here to help.
When you are very depressed, you seem to fall into a deep black hole and have no way out. When you are extremely anxious, you want to jump out of your skin. When you are in panic mode, you feel like you are going to die. They are all your perception and can be changed as long as you decide to seek help from professionals. Another example is ADHD. For those people, life is a struggle. It does not have to be that way. Treatments can be a game changer. Good sleep, healthy diet and regular exercise are all important although stimulant is corner stone of the treatments. Consultation can make difference for your life. I am here to help.
![Photo of Arashinder Dhaliwal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5455c818-2484-4c82-a7f2-20fdd0d4fa27/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board certified in Adult and Child psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have 12+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. I believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. I partner with patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy.
I am Board certified in Adult and Child psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have 12+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. I believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. I partner with patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy.
![Photo of David C Saunders, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28349ca7-c226-4ee1-860e-2c3d54c95eaa/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with any person - child, adolescent, adult - who is seeking treatment. They may be suffering from depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. Or perhaps they have never been diagnosed with a clinical disorder, but are seeking help to reduce stress during a difficult time, such as a challenging life transition or the death of a loved one. Those seeking a highly individualized and comprehensive approach to mental health treatment might find my practice particularly attractive, given what it offers.
I work with any person - child, adolescent, adult - who is seeking treatment. They may be suffering from depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. Or perhaps they have never been diagnosed with a clinical disorder, but are seeking help to reduce stress during a difficult time, such as a challenging life transition or the death of a loved one. Those seeking a highly individualized and comprehensive approach to mental health treatment might find my practice particularly attractive, given what it offers.
![Photo of Jaskaran Grewal, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e401a58-3253-4fb1-a446-2541182170c2/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Jaskaran Singh Grewal is a highly skilled psychiatrist with a passion for helping his patients live better lives. Dr. Grewal earned his medical degree from the American University of Antigua in Antigua and Barbuda. He then went on to complete his residency in psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York. A distinguished member of the American Psychiatric Association, Dr. Grewal believes in working collaboratively with his patients in a down-to-earth and practical manner while offering the most up-to-date and scientifically proven treatment.
Dr. Jaskaran Singh Grewal is a highly skilled psychiatrist with a passion for helping his patients live better lives. Dr. Grewal earned his medical degree from the American University of Antigua in Antigua and Barbuda. He then went on to complete his residency in psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York. A distinguished member of the American Psychiatric Association, Dr. Grewal believes in working collaboratively with his patients in a down-to-earth and practical manner while offering the most up-to-date and scientifically proven treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Julia Novikov, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78e2d6ba-690e-421f-8bc8-162f02df313a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Double board-certified psychiatrist with subspecialties in general psychiatry, psychosomatic medicine, and reproductive psychiatry. I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to adult individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Subspecialized expertise allows me to address the unique mental health concerns that arise with various comorbid chronic medical conditions as well as all stages of female reproductive cycle. I believe in a patient-centered approach, each individual's unique needs are taken into consideration in developing a personalized treatment plan.
Double board-certified psychiatrist with subspecialties in general psychiatry, psychosomatic medicine, and reproductive psychiatry. I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to adult individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Subspecialized expertise allows me to address the unique mental health concerns that arise with various comorbid chronic medical conditions as well as all stages of female reproductive cycle. I believe in a patient-centered approach, each individual's unique needs are taken into consideration in developing a personalized treatment plan.
![Photo of Shajiuddin Faraz Mohammed, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1682b21-d9c1-4fec-b4e1-46272bbcbd93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mohammed is well known in the community for his empathetic manner, and his ability to develop a therapeutic relationship with his patients. He can work with patients from all age groups, including children with special needs. Dr. Mohammed is fluent in English, Hindi and Urdu and welcomes patients of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations.
Dr. Mohammed is well known in the community for his empathetic manner, and his ability to develop a therapeutic relationship with his patients. He can work with patients from all age groups, including children with special needs. Dr. Mohammed is fluent in English, Hindi and Urdu and welcomes patients of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations.
![Photo of Sean Rumschik, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52600c08-1baa-48bd-b58e-01810fb205d5/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you can’t feel happy, are overwhelmed, have worry that keeps you up at night, or have inadequately treated symptoms, consider scheduling an evaluation. I’m a board certified psychiatrist, and focus on giving thoughtful, personalized care to help you get better. This begins with a comprehensive initial assessment to understand you as a person- your past history, your recent symptoms, and your goals for the future. I want to understand your unique experience to be able to create a plan specific for you.
If you can’t feel happy, are overwhelmed, have worry that keeps you up at night, or have inadequately treated symptoms, consider scheduling an evaluation. I’m a board certified psychiatrist, and focus on giving thoughtful, personalized care to help you get better. This begins with a comprehensive initial assessment to understand you as a person- your past history, your recent symptoms, and your goals for the future. I want to understand your unique experience to be able to create a plan specific for you.
![Photo of Annie Jie Xu, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d211916-b38a-4ec3-9c59-33152d64c52f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Annie Xu is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in general psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine. She received her general psychiatry training at New York Medical College and completed specialized fellowship training in psychosomatic medicine and psycho-oncology at Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Xu has expertise in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, adjustment issues related to trauma, medical illness, life transitions, and grief in addition to unique therapy modalities specific to cancer related diagnoses.
Dr. Annie Xu is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in general psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine. She received her general psychiatry training at New York Medical College and completed specialized fellowship training in psychosomatic medicine and psycho-oncology at Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Xu has expertise in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, adjustment issues related to trauma, medical illness, life transitions, and grief in addition to unique therapy modalities specific to cancer related diagnoses.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5125878-f613-4ba9-9308-3d4f41c39842/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601 (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 Brigitte Gordon, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ec3e557-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brigitte Gordon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601 (Online Only)
What is your idea of mental wellness? How do you see yourself achieving it? I specialize in multiple treatment modalities including medication management, therapy, and integrative treatment, all intended to support your mental well-being. I am experienced with the pharmacological treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, intrusive thoughts, and post traumatic stress disorder. In addition, I utilize therapy and integrative modalities of wellness to support clients' well-being. I am a multi-faceted provider that flourishes on working with clients who are open and inquisitive.
What is your idea of mental wellness? How do you see yourself achieving it? I specialize in multiple treatment modalities including medication management, therapy, and integrative treatment, all intended to support your mental well-being. I am experienced with the pharmacological treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, intrusive thoughts, and post traumatic stress disorder. In addition, I utilize therapy and integrative modalities of wellness to support clients' well-being. I am a multi-faceted provider that flourishes on working with clients who are open and inquisitive.
![Photo of Daniel S. McCoy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2d1af0f-348f-444f-81af-77eeae3d64db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel S. McCoy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10601 (Online Only)
All services are 100% via telepsychiatry and are currently available to patients residing in the states of Iowa, Minnesota, and New York!
All services are 100% via telepsychiatry and are currently available to patients residing in the states of Iowa, Minnesota, and New York!
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety.
My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety.
My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
See more therapy options for Purchase
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Purchase, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Purchase, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
60% | ADHD |
60% | Grief |
60% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | MagnaCare |
How Psychiatrists in Purchase, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
60% | Male | |
40% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Purchase?
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.