Psychiatrists in Uniondale, NY
![Photo of Alicia Portuondo-Smith, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1147dc6-2df2-4278-81f6-14b494a19bce/2/320x400.png)
Alicia Portuondo-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Uniondale, NY 11556
A Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of behavioral and emotional difficulties. Specializing in anxiety, depression, and women's issues especially related to post-partum mental health and motherhood stressors. It is my belief that it is essential to initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative plan that engages the patient and family (when applicable) to participate in the overall treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
A Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of behavioral and emotional difficulties. Specializing in anxiety, depression, and women's issues especially related to post-partum mental health and motherhood stressors. It is my belief that it is essential to initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative plan that engages the patient and family (when applicable) to participate in the overall treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
![Photo of Kayanna Jonas - Jonas Wellness, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5efc8b23-61a2-48b0-b44d-70ab0b6758f5/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Kayanna Jonas DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, specializes in treating adolescents, adults and the geriatric population who are having difficulties with behavioral, emotional, and mood challenges. Our practice initiates treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative approach. Treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
Dr. Kayanna Jonas DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, specializes in treating adolescents, adults and the geriatric population who are having difficulties with behavioral, emotional, and mood challenges. Our practice initiates treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative approach. Treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
![Photo of Macia Drummond - Bridge Back to Health, PhD, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45a5363b-03cd-446c-b399-a37910ff6630/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bridge Back to Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Uniondale, NY 11556
Dr. Macia Drummond, PhD, PMHNP-BC, empowers individuals, both adults and children, not just to overcome challenge, but to thrive. I envision a future where they can maintain healthy relationships, find fulfillment in their careers, and actively participate in their families and communities. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, but my practice offers a safe and supportive environment. Here, patients are not judged, but seen, heard, and valued for their potential. As a Mental Health Provider, I believe that reaching out for help isn't a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength –a first step on the path to a brighter future.
Dr. Macia Drummond, PhD, PMHNP-BC, empowers individuals, both adults and children, not just to overcome challenge, but to thrive. I envision a future where they can maintain healthy relationships, find fulfillment in their careers, and actively participate in their families and communities. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, but my practice offers a safe and supportive environment. Here, patients are not judged, but seen, heard, and valued for their potential. As a Mental Health Provider, I believe that reaching out for help isn't a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength –a first step on the path to a brighter future.
![Photo of Judy E Vansiea, DNP, MA, MS, APRN, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e9866f6-859c-4329-9ca6-9f39677aa0ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Judy E Vansiea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA, MS, APRN, NPP
Verified Verified
Uniondale, NY 11556 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients at my faith-based practice. Licensed as a Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry/APRN with NY and KS. Educational degrees background consists of: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); Master of Science in Mental Health Psychiatric Nursing and a Master of Arts in Addiction Counseling. I have worked in nursing for 27 years. I do immigration psychological evaluations too. I have worked in civilian and military nursing positions and was stationed at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. I am a Gulf War Era veteran.
Accepting new patients at my faith-based practice. Licensed as a Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry/APRN with NY and KS. Educational degrees background consists of: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); Master of Science in Mental Health Psychiatric Nursing and a Master of Arts in Addiction Counseling. I have worked in nursing for 27 years. I do immigration psychological evaluations too. I have worked in civilian and military nursing positions and was stationed at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. I am a Gulf War Era veteran.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Long Island Psychiatrist & Online Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07f38d44-6a6c-472e-b1d2-3bda67dbd60d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Long Island Psychiatrist & Online Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Uniondale, NY 11553 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare) . I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist ? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems dysphoria, or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare) . I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist ? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems dysphoria, or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
![Photo of Ardouin Coriolan, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fe232c2-9029-4180-8669-0d87e42b847b/1/320x400.png)
Ardouin Coriolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Uniondale, NY 11553 (Online Only)
As a dedicated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in New York, I render hope for individuals battling mental illness and substance abuse. With a profound commitment to healing, I offer teletherapy services, leveraging technology to reach those in need regardless of location. Armed with a wealth of expertise and compassion, I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances. Some common issues potential clients seeking treatment from me usually consist of : substance abuse, depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, and low motivation.
As a dedicated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in New York, I render hope for individuals battling mental illness and substance abuse. With a profound commitment to healing, I offer teletherapy services, leveraging technology to reach those in need regardless of location. Armed with a wealth of expertise and compassion, I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances. Some common issues potential clients seeking treatment from me usually consist of : substance abuse, depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, and low motivation.
![Photo of Natacha Joseph - Empire-State NP in Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68544d0a-e5f4-4f39-9806-b5e3fb2962aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empire-State NP in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Uniondale, NY 11553
I'm Natacha Joseph, MS, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric practitioner dedicated to helping clients through individualized integrative psychiatric treatment plans. These plans include both traditional and non-traditional/off-label uses of psychotropic medications and supplements. With nearly fifteen years of nursing experience and education in various areas of patient care, both medically and psychiatrically, I have extensive experience in a multitude of healthcare settings, including hospital medicine, home health care, and inpatient and outpatient clinical services.
I'm Natacha Joseph, MS, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric practitioner dedicated to helping clients through individualized integrative psychiatric treatment plans. These plans include both traditional and non-traditional/off-label uses of psychotropic medications and supplements. With nearly fifteen years of nursing experience and education in various areas of patient care, both medically and psychiatrically, I have extensive experience in a multitude of healthcare settings, including hospital medicine, home health care, and inpatient and outpatient clinical services.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ee46b30-0641-4b48-a31d-2bcbf80974c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11550 (Online Only)
Book an appointment online today via our website corepsychiatry.org!
Book an appointment online today via our website corepsychiatry.org!
![Photo of Chi Truong-Leisner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74f6f31a-4c0a-4bed-81ee-f4917a36ea9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chi Truong-Leisner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hempstead, NY 11550 (Online Only)
There is no such thing as an ideal client. All of my clients are unique and inspirational in their own way. My focus is emphasized on your present symptoms and not the label that comes with those symptoms. The ultimate goal for my patients is to foster confidence and independence in their lives. If you don't leave our sessions with a sense of comfort and hope, I am not doing my duty to you.
There is no such thing as an ideal client. All of my clients are unique and inspirational in their own way. My focus is emphasized on your present symptoms and not the label that comes with those symptoms. The ultimate goal for my patients is to foster confidence and independence in their lives. If you don't leave our sessions with a sense of comfort and hope, I am not doing my duty to you.
![Photo of Tashonna Webster, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f70ba21f-e80d-434e-8af6-ad24592c4d59/1/320x400.png)
Tashonna Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Are you currently going through each day in constant state of sadness, unable to pinpoint why you are not able to enjoy interactions with others or important moments. Have you been angry or irritable with others where minor conflicts are pushed out of proportion? These symptoms described can be seen in individuals who are suffering from depression or anxiety. These two conditions can have a huge impact on how you sleep or eat, relationships, performance at work, and health. Living with depression or anxiety can be quite challenging, but there is hope.
Are you currently going through each day in constant state of sadness, unable to pinpoint why you are not able to enjoy interactions with others or important moments. Have you been angry or irritable with others where minor conflicts are pushed out of proportion? These symptoms described can be seen in individuals who are suffering from depression or anxiety. These two conditions can have a huge impact on how you sleep or eat, relationships, performance at work, and health. Living with depression or anxiety can be quite challenging, but there is hope.
![Photo of Sara Burshtein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/525dde58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and I believe in a holistic approach, incorporating physical and mental health. I combine up-to-date medical treatment with talk therapy to create a personalized plan to address an individual’s complaints and work collaboratively with patients and families to create a treatment plan that is driven by results. I attended Albert Einstein College of Medicine, completed psychiatry training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia University/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and I believe in a holistic approach, incorporating physical and mental health. I combine up-to-date medical treatment with talk therapy to create a personalized plan to address an individual’s complaints and work collaboratively with patients and families to create a treatment plan that is driven by results. I attended Albert Einstein College of Medicine, completed psychiatry training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia University/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
![Photo of Aaron Padron - Insightful Psychiatry, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb12fa19-4645-4ff3-bdfb-03d3ffcb30ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Insightful Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11550
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available.
Appointments Available! We are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments available.
Jiji George works in a private office at Long Island Psychiatric Services, PC. in Merrick, NY. It is a group of professionals committed to provide mental health services to residents of Long Island. Our compassionate staff provides a warm and comfortable atmosphere, knowledgeable psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric NPs and social workers. We do evaluations and provide recommendations for best treatment for you or your loved ones. We offer individual and family psychotherapy sessions, as well as medication management. We are open Monday through Friday, with late evenings availability. We do offer some Saturday hours.
Jiji George works in a private office at Long Island Psychiatric Services, PC. in Merrick, NY. It is a group of professionals committed to provide mental health services to residents of Long Island. Our compassionate staff provides a warm and comfortable atmosphere, knowledgeable psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric NPs and social workers. We do evaluations and provide recommendations for best treatment for you or your loved ones. We offer individual and family psychotherapy sessions, as well as medication management. We are open Monday through Friday, with late evenings availability. We do offer some Saturday hours.
![Photo of Bolanle Bello - Devine Neuropsychiatric Services NP of psych, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0295b118-0133-4d2d-99bc-588deb491be4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Devine Neuropsychiatric Services NP of psych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11531
Dr. Bello is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of experience in Adult, Child, and Adolescent mental health issues and extensive psychopharmacology experience. I am committed to providing compassionate, confidential, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based mental health care customized to meet your individual needs. School: Stony Brook University School of Nursing (BSN, MSN), New York. Chamberlain University (Doctor of Nursing Practice) Illinois. Please call today for an appointment.
Dr. Bello is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of experience in Adult, Child, and Adolescent mental health issues and extensive psychopharmacology experience. I am committed to providing compassionate, confidential, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based mental health care customized to meet your individual needs. School: Stony Brook University School of Nursing (BSN, MSN), New York. Chamberlain University (Doctor of Nursing Practice) Illinois. Please call today for an appointment.
![Photo of Shihab Touhid, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/309f681a-05e7-4136-959d-8da0d8c4b324/1/320x400.png)
Shihab Touhid is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2011. He provides patient-centered and trauma-informed care with experience in treatment planning, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication management, and psychotropic medication education. He believes in treating patients with the fewest number of medications. He strongly educates clients about the potential for addiction when taking controlled substances. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, driving, watching wild animals and funny videos.
Shihab Touhid is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2011. He provides patient-centered and trauma-informed care with experience in treatment planning, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication management, and psychotropic medication education. He believes in treating patients with the fewest number of medications. He strongly educates clients about the potential for addiction when taking controlled substances. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, driving, watching wild animals and funny videos.
Marie Mercure Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11550
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board-Certified Psych Nurse Practitioner with great experience in the field. I provide diagnostic assessments and medication management to patients across the lifespan using holistic approach. I have experience working with adult and children(14+) with a variety of mental health needs. I have a primary clinical interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD and Pre and/or Postpartum related mood disorders.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board-Certified Psych Nurse Practitioner with great experience in the field. I provide diagnostic assessments and medication management to patients across the lifespan using holistic approach. I have experience working with adult and children(14+) with a variety of mental health needs. I have a primary clinical interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD and Pre and/or Postpartum related mood disorders.
![Photo of Priyadarshan Bajpayi - Evolve Psychiatry, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46096e83-138b-478d-8e11-d9563d090ac7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr.Bajpayi is triple Board Certified in Adult,Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He is extensively trained in Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology. After he completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency training in Brooklyn, NY, he pursued further specialization in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at State University of New York , Brooklyn and Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia. Dr. Bajpayi has been associated with various hospitals in NY- North Shore LIJ, NY Methodist Hospital, Long Island College Hospital, VA Northport and South Oaks Hospital.Dr Bajpayi owns a private practice Evolve Psychiatry.
Dr.Bajpayi is triple Board Certified in Adult,Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He is extensively trained in Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology. After he completed his Adult Psychiatry Residency training in Brooklyn, NY, he pursued further specialization in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at State University of New York , Brooklyn and Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia. Dr. Bajpayi has been associated with various hospitals in NY- North Shore LIJ, NY Methodist Hospital, Long Island College Hospital, VA Northport and South Oaks Hospital.Dr Bajpayi owns a private practice Evolve Psychiatry.
![Photo of Ruslan Berdichevsky - MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8980e83a-303f-4d5b-b1fb-a94d8fce88e0/1/320x400.png)
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566 (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Simi Joseph, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f10bf70-6ab0-43a1-8854-2dad6b76f487/3/320x400.jpeg)
Simi Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hempstead, NY 11549
I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, graduated in 2013 who has a doctorate degree. I have diverse experience in various hospitals and outpatient clinics, with an emphasis on Psychiatry and is good in medication management. I am affiliated with many local hospitals and also collaborates with physicians in different medical groups. I provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to young adults and adults who live with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, psychosis, and depression.
I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, graduated in 2013 who has a doctorate degree. I have diverse experience in various hospitals and outpatient clinics, with an emphasis on Psychiatry and is good in medication management. I am affiliated with many local hospitals and also collaborates with physicians in different medical groups. I provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to young adults and adults who live with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, psychosis, and depression.
![Photo of Sagarika Ray, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4455e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I specialize in treating a vast array of mental illnesses including ADHD, depression, anxiety and autistic spectrum disorders. I initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation, devise a specific treatment plan that is tailored for each individual based on their age and personal needs, offer medication management, individual and family therapy. I take special interest in treating depression and PTSD in adolescents and women.
I am a double Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I specialize in treating a vast array of mental illnesses including ADHD, depression, anxiety and autistic spectrum disorders. I initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation, devise a specific treatment plan that is tailored for each individual based on their age and personal needs, offer medication management, individual and family therapy. I take special interest in treating depression and PTSD in adolescents and women.
See more therapy options for Uniondale
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Uniondale, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Uniondale, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Medication Management |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Self Esteem |
57% | ADHD |
57% | Grief |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield |
How Psychiatrists in Uniondale, NY see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Uniondale?
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.