Psychiatrists in Shushan, NY
![Photo of Laurie B Teal, APRN-BC, PMHNP, NBCCH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/192a38c9-d4db-4c70-bb57-005bc047ea4c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie B Teal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, NBCCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shushan, NY 12873
Honoring your path to wholeness. I have 30 plus years of Psychiatric experience, hold numerous additional credentials and certifications, have been on a spiritually active path for as longs as I can remember. What brought me all this way might surprise you. Transforming my own pain into wisdom that education and credentials cannot begin to teach. So, what I truly offer is a heart centered space to reflect back to you who are, beyond your trauma, beyond your self judgements and limiting beliefs. My invitation is that you become aware of your own power to create a life worth living.
Honoring your path to wholeness. I have 30 plus years of Psychiatric experience, hold numerous additional credentials and certifications, have been on a spiritually active path for as longs as I can remember. What brought me all this way might surprise you. Transforming my own pain into wisdom that education and credentials cannot begin to teach. So, what I truly offer is a heart centered space to reflect back to you who are, beyond your trauma, beyond your self judgements and limiting beliefs. My invitation is that you become aware of your own power to create a life worth living.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ailish Samuelson, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e70d2f83-6efd-436a-9848-b9f228c33377/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I was born and raised in upstate New York. I received by RN from Southern Vermont College. I then earned by BSN from SUNY Plattsburgh while working full time as a nurse manager of one of the wings of the Vermont Veterans Home. I found my love of mental health diagnosis and treatment while working with veterans and their families. This inspired me to then earn my training as a PMHNP from SUNY Stony Brook. I have experience in working with people of all ages and backgrounds, including substance use disorders.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I was born and raised in upstate New York. I received by RN from Southern Vermont College. I then earned by BSN from SUNY Plattsburgh while working full time as a nurse manager of one of the wings of the Vermont Veterans Home. I found my love of mental health diagnosis and treatment while working with veterans and their families. This inspired me to then earn my training as a PMHNP from SUNY Stony Brook. I have experience in working with people of all ages and backgrounds, including substance use disorders.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Safir Azam Md Telepsychiatry Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16c82c7f-0f2b-4dd7-b804-87ad55ebe42f/1/320x400.png)
Safir Azam Md Telepsychiatry Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12206 (Online Only)
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
![Photo of Briana McMorris, NPP-BC, MSN, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd69cb1e-2913-4768-bca1-0d19471adaa6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nurturing Minds Wellness is dedicated to helping patients improve mental health, well-being, and overall quality of life. Our nurse practitioners offer medication management for individuals and families in a welcoming, safe, and judgement-free environment. While we work with a variety of conditions, most commonly our patients are seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Bipolar and Mood disorders. Our approach is tailored to each individual and their unique needs, and is best suited for those struggling with non-acute conditions. In-person & telehealth appointments available. Located in Malta, NY.
Nurturing Minds Wellness is dedicated to helping patients improve mental health, well-being, and overall quality of life. Our nurse practitioners offer medication management for individuals and families in a welcoming, safe, and judgement-free environment. While we work with a variety of conditions, most commonly our patients are seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Bipolar and Mood disorders. Our approach is tailored to each individual and their unique needs, and is best suited for those struggling with non-acute conditions. In-person & telehealth appointments available. Located in Malta, NY.
![Photo of Jeanne Davis, NPP-BC, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0e3e3af-2a8e-44cc-a7db-5d836c31da00/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeanne Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP-BC, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Kids, preteens, teens, young adults, college students, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, attention, mood, focus, and decision making. I will thoroughly assess, diagnose, and provide treatment options in order to help you reach your goals as well as your potential in life.
Kids, preteens, teens, young adults, college students, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, attention, mood, focus, and decision making. I will thoroughly assess, diagnose, and provide treatment options in order to help you reach your goals as well as your potential in life.
![Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a85c4cf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Albany, NY 12204
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
![Photo of Iris A. Grett - Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6be8c5cf-bdb5-4a48-9065-19a2e9755230/2/320x400.png)
Iris A. Grett - Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I attended SUNY Delhi University receiving a BSN and then obtained a second masters degree from Sage University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with many different groups of patients that have dealt with depression, anxiety, OCD, and many other mental states. In my therapy and medication management, I utilize my philosophy of empathy, individual worth, ethics and diplomacy to make a positive difference with my patients.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I attended SUNY Delhi University receiving a BSN and then obtained a second masters degree from Sage University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with many different groups of patients that have dealt with depression, anxiety, OCD, and many other mental states. In my therapy and medication management, I utilize my philosophy of empathy, individual worth, ethics and diplomacy to make a positive difference with my patients.
![Photo of Susan DeCelle-McDermott, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f937891b-963f-4554-92cb-fad6bab38370/4/320x400.jpeg)
Susan DeCelle-McDermott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Malta, NY 12020
Taking the first step to reaching out for help to manage your emotional health can be difficult and frightening. Struggling with feelings of depression and anxiety from life stressors, personal loss and traumatic experiences can take its toll on a physical and emotional level. Knowing that you are not alone on this journey and having the ability to reach out for help is essential for personal growth and healing. Allowing yourself to open up to those offering support and compassion in a nonjudgmental manner will help you to learn ways to cope with your emotions while committing to the balanced life you deserve.
Taking the first step to reaching out for help to manage your emotional health can be difficult and frightening. Struggling with feelings of depression and anxiety from life stressors, personal loss and traumatic experiences can take its toll on a physical and emotional level. Knowing that you are not alone on this journey and having the ability to reach out for help is essential for personal growth and healing. Allowing yourself to open up to those offering support and compassion in a nonjudgmental manner will help you to learn ways to cope with your emotions while committing to the balanced life you deserve.
![Photo of Jan Yager - Latham NP Care PLLC, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPbc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/969917cf-4290-4f62-9ec1-021667b12d80/1/320x400.png)
Latham NP Care PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPbc
Verified Verified
Troy, NY 12180
Feeling overwhelmed in silent moments, convinced your anxious thoughts are visible to everyone around you? You're not alone, and I understand the weight of that secret worry." I have available appointment open at this time.
Feeling overwhelmed in silent moments, convinced your anxious thoughts are visible to everyone around you? You're not alone, and I understand the weight of that secret worry." I have available appointment open at this time.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Psychiatrist in Poughkeepsie, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34ae1c12-a910-4e09-81ee-59edf7881e37/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatrist in Poughkeepsie
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, NY 12401 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
![Photo of Cynthia Spellman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f091d68d-ac7c-444a-908e-d139f8e479f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have an exclusive private practice, with a limited number of clients. I provide a very high level of care, with appointments available this week and 50-minute sessions that cover both psychotherapy and medication. Not your typical psychiatrist, I safeguard your privacy from Big Data's (b)reach by handwriting all records. I am available via text for quick questions between appointments. This is possible only on a private-pay basis, remaining Out-Of-Network with all insurances. Nevertheless, it's possible that your insurance might offer partial reimbursement, which requires only a simple claim form. Call to see if I can help you.
I have an exclusive private practice, with a limited number of clients. I provide a very high level of care, with appointments available this week and 50-minute sessions that cover both psychotherapy and medication. Not your typical psychiatrist, I safeguard your privacy from Big Data's (b)reach by handwriting all records. I am available via text for quick questions between appointments. This is possible only on a private-pay basis, remaining Out-Of-Network with all insurances. Nevertheless, it's possible that your insurance might offer partial reimbursement, which requires only a simple claim form. Call to see if I can help you.
![Photo of Edward Palmer Thompson - Thompson Psych NPs, DNP, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7926ef9-2c81-44b5-9311-03e598a953e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thompson Psych NPs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenfield Center, NY 12833
Are you an adult or a parent seeking medication management and psychotherapy for yourself or your child? Thompson Psych NPs is focused on helping individuals of all ages who are struggling with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. We offer a variety of treatment options, including medication management and psychotherapy, to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
Are you an adult or a parent seeking medication management and psychotherapy for yourself or your child? Thompson Psych NPs is focused on helping individuals of all ages who are struggling with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. We offer a variety of treatment options, including medication management and psychotherapy, to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness.
Carole A Rumberger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rensselaer, NY 12144
If you are looking to overcome challenges and transform your life through an integrative approach, then please consider Auxano Psychiatric NP Services. Derived from the Greek word for growth, 'Auxano' reflects our deep commitment to your personal and mental health. We provide psychiatric care with an emphasis on integrative psychiatry, an approach to mental health care that combines conventional psychiatric practices with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) techniques. We collaborate to treat your "whole person", taking into account your mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual needs.
If you are looking to overcome challenges and transform your life through an integrative approach, then please consider Auxano Psychiatric NP Services. Derived from the Greek word for growth, 'Auxano' reflects our deep commitment to your personal and mental health. We provide psychiatric care with an emphasis on integrative psychiatry, an approach to mental health care that combines conventional psychiatric practices with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) techniques. We collaborate to treat your "whole person", taking into account your mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual needs.
![Photo of Anna T LaRose, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b8edb8b-211d-4c64-abe1-bd0d75a7ce5a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a Holistic Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist in the Capital Region of New York. I’m looking to work with people who want a provider who will help them reconnect with the parts of themselves that they have lost due to mental illness, excessive stress, medical illness, difficult transitions, grief or burn out. I want to focus on your specific needs. I do not have an agenda other than making you whole again.
I’m a Holistic Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist in the Capital Region of New York. I’m looking to work with people who want a provider who will help them reconnect with the parts of themselves that they have lost due to mental illness, excessive stress, medical illness, difficult transitions, grief or burn out. I want to focus on your specific needs. I do not have an agenda other than making you whole again.
![Photo of LaShondia Sheree Adams, MSN, PMHNP, CMHIMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2691a0d9-dfa1-4d78-9b27-9e976ccb0fbf/2/320x400.jpeg)
LaShondia Sheree Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clifton Park, NY 12065 (Online Only)
I’m a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 25 years in nursing. As a Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner as well, my practice utilizes both traditional and holistic psychiatry. If you're interested in root cause psychiatry, self-awareness and desire to understand more about your disorders to live more freely, let's connect. There is no separating you into parts. We treat you as a whole. eunoia Wellness Collective - a telehealth psychiatry practice where, “We work together to achieve the beautiful balance of the mind and body.”
I’m a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 25 years in nursing. As a Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner as well, my practice utilizes both traditional and holistic psychiatry. If you're interested in root cause psychiatry, self-awareness and desire to understand more about your disorders to live more freely, let's connect. There is no separating you into parts. We treat you as a whole. eunoia Wellness Collective - a telehealth psychiatry practice where, “We work together to achieve the beautiful balance of the mind and body.”
![Photo of Kim Gendron, MSN, FNP-BC, NPP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4387983-603f-4b00-ac23-851ceceedc29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kim has been in the field of nursing for 37 years with the last 26 years focused on her practice as a Nurse Practitioner. She is also a Professor at Sage College in Troy for the last eight years teaching Graduate Nurse Practitioner students. She has been a pioneer in integrative psychiatry in a multitude of outpatient settings for the last 15 years. She has integrated psychiatry into adult family practices, primary care health centers, and continues to practice in multiple local nursing home settings providing Geropsychiatry to nursing home residents. Her practice includes medication management as well as psychotherapy.
Kim has been in the field of nursing for 37 years with the last 26 years focused on her practice as a Nurse Practitioner. She is also a Professor at Sage College in Troy for the last eight years teaching Graduate Nurse Practitioner students. She has been a pioneer in integrative psychiatry in a multitude of outpatient settings for the last 15 years. She has integrated psychiatry into adult family practices, primary care health centers, and continues to practice in multiple local nursing home settings providing Geropsychiatry to nursing home residents. Her practice includes medication management as well as psychotherapy.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a0292f6-004d-4449-aca5-cef029d363e4/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
Depression and anxiety can significantly impact a person's quality of life. There are ways to combat these conditions with medication and therapy. A willingness to feel better and want to change is all that is needed to get started on the road to recovery. I look forward to treating the adult population (age 18+), utilizing medication management, brief person-centered psychotherapy and education to help manage distress, empower and motivate patients to achieve their life goals.
Depression and anxiety can significantly impact a person's quality of life. There are ways to combat these conditions with medication and therapy. A willingness to feel better and want to change is all that is needed to get started on the road to recovery. I look forward to treating the adult population (age 18+), utilizing medication management, brief person-centered psychotherapy and education to help manage distress, empower and motivate patients to achieve their life goals.
![Photo of Peter Joseph Valastro Jr, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae19e16d-2d5e-44d0-81b1-c08c25710fec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter Joseph Valastro Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
Malta, NY 12020
Nurturing Minds Wellness is dedicated to helping patients improve mental health, well-being, and overall quality of life. Our nurse practitioners offer medication management for individuals and families in a welcoming, safe, and judgement-free environment. While we work with a variety of conditions, most commonly our patients are seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Bipolar and Mood disorders. Our approach is tailored to each individual and their unique needs, and is best suited for those struggling with non-acute conditions. In-person & telehealth appointments available. Located in Malta, NY.
Nurturing Minds Wellness is dedicated to helping patients improve mental health, well-being, and overall quality of life. Our nurse practitioners offer medication management for individuals and families in a welcoming, safe, and judgement-free environment. While we work with a variety of conditions, most commonly our patients are seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Bipolar and Mood disorders. Our approach is tailored to each individual and their unique needs, and is best suited for those struggling with non-acute conditions. In-person & telehealth appointments available. Located in Malta, NY.
![Photo of Eloise Marie Palmisano - Eloise Palmisano PMHNP , RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8832e37-0c70-4a82-bb5a-740b61e5be53/4/320x400.jpeg)
Eloise Palmisano PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
I am Eloise Palmisano a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been a Registered Nurse for 30 years with many years of practice Mental Health and various types of practice. In 2009 I became a Nurse Practitioner, graduated from Sage College in Troy New York. My practice is private I specialize in Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders including Binge Eating and Major Depressive Disorders. My patients should be engaged in therapy with a therapist and must be compliant with my treatment plan. I treat adults from the age of 18 to 80. I am available for new patients . I am also a Suboxone provider Certified Spravato site.
I am Eloise Palmisano a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been a Registered Nurse for 30 years with many years of practice Mental Health and various types of practice. In 2009 I became a Nurse Practitioner, graduated from Sage College in Troy New York. My practice is private I specialize in Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders including Binge Eating and Major Depressive Disorders. My patients should be engaged in therapy with a therapist and must be compliant with my treatment plan. I treat adults from the age of 18 to 80. I am available for new patients . I am also a Suboxone provider Certified Spravato site.
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Shushan, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Shushan, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Grief |
100% | Spirituality |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Other |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Shushan, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Shushan?
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.