Psychiatrists in Westhampton Beach, NY
![Photo of Carol Ann Payton, PMHNP , FNP, MBA , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d00d2ad5-4e2b-4cdf-a6a6-2616f85cf4f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carol Ann Payton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978
Over the past 18 years, I have gained knowledge and experience to provide mental health and wellness needs to our community. I have dedicated my life to healthcare in many aspects, including in-patient and out-patient care, leadership, and quality. I have achieved a Master's in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner 2016 (FNP), a Master’s in Business Administration 2020 (MBA), and a Master's as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (2021). I am board certified and provide treatment across the patient's life span. I also provide psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and other modalities to meet patients Mental Health needs.
Over the past 18 years, I have gained knowledge and experience to provide mental health and wellness needs to our community. I have dedicated my life to healthcare in many aspects, including in-patient and out-patient care, leadership, and quality. I have achieved a Master's in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner 2016 (FNP), a Master’s in Business Administration 2020 (MBA), and a Master's as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (2021). I am board certified and provide treatment across the patient's life span. I also provide psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and other modalities to meet patients Mental Health needs.
![Photo of Lauren Hertwig, RN, MS, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459ae7ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Hertwig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978
I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner in Family Health and Psychiatry who provides treatment to patients across the lifespan. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population with psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, and alternative modalities of treatment.
I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner in Family Health and Psychiatry who provides treatment to patients across the lifespan. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population with psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, and alternative modalities of treatment.
![Photo of Meredith Senter, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e65a85a-3884-479c-a554-00660562b240/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Senter studied psychology at Brown University. She attended medical school at Rutgers - New Jersey Medical School, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She subsequently completed her residency in psychiatry at Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, where she served as a chief resident and worked with the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder research group. Dr. Senter has experience working as an attending psychiatrist in emergency room and outpatient community mental health settings.
Dr. Senter studied psychology at Brown University. She attended medical school at Rutgers - New Jersey Medical School, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She subsequently completed her residency in psychiatry at Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, where she served as a chief resident and worked with the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder research group. Dr. Senter has experience working as an attending psychiatrist in emergency room and outpatient community mental health settings.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Catherine Poulos, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a7d49c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Poulos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hampton Bays, NY 11946
At East End Mental Health, we believe in the integrative approach to behavioral health and psychiatric care. We offer our clients comprehensive array of treatment options which include individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychotherapy groups, psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacotherapies, and laboratory diagnostic/genetic testing services.
At East End Mental Health, we believe in the integrative approach to behavioral health and psychiatric care. We offer our clients comprehensive array of treatment options which include individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychotherapy groups, psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacotherapies, and laboratory diagnostic/genetic testing services.
![Photo of Amanda Kozakiewicz Ragona, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db708760-f191-4613-9525-5067910f47ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Kozakiewicz Ragona
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Riverhead, NY 11901 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website! - Taking the step to self-help can be nerve-wracking and hard. I take pride in providing a listening ear, compassionate heart, and open mind. I have a Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I am Board Certified. I also have an additional Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! - Taking the step to self-help can be nerve-wracking and hard. I take pride in providing a listening ear, compassionate heart, and open mind. I have a Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I am Board Certified. I also have an additional Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences.
![Photo of Dr. Christopher Zeoli, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a5d1fa2-0925-4fa3-a219-ece470c22c19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Christopher Zeoli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Riverhead, NY 11901 (Online Only)
Has the road you’ve been traveling seem extra hard these days? Are you weighed down by the burdens of depression, anxiety, troubling memories from the past? Are you having difficulty enjoying the things that you once enjoyed? Are you feeling socially disconnected? The world has been a stressful place these days, and everyone needs some help sometimes. There are many psychiatric prescribers, but not many who also do EMDR therapy. There are many EMDR therapists, but not many who can also prescribe medications. I am trained to be able to offer both of these therapeutic modalities.
Has the road you’ve been traveling seem extra hard these days? Are you weighed down by the burdens of depression, anxiety, troubling memories from the past? Are you having difficulty enjoying the things that you once enjoyed? Are you feeling socially disconnected? The world has been a stressful place these days, and everyone needs some help sometimes. There are many psychiatric prescribers, but not many who also do EMDR therapy. There are many EMDR therapists, but not many who can also prescribe medications. I am trained to be able to offer both of these therapeutic modalities.
![Photo of Guiding Balance - Guiding Balance, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/490cb1a4-3d87-4959-bbb5-8310036094df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Guiding Balance. We offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations with genetic testing, medication management with genetic profiling, and psychotherapy. We treat pediatric, adult, and geriatric clients.
Welcome to Guiding Balance. We offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations with genetic testing, medication management with genetic profiling, and psychotherapy. We treat pediatric, adult, and geriatric clients.
![Photo of Frederick Scholl - Frederick Scholl Psychiatry, MS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ad930e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Frederick Scholl Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverhead, NY 11901
Frederick Scholl MSN, APRN, PMHNP is a board-certified practitioner in psychiatry, licensed and registered in NYS. He specializes in treating a number of conditions with medication, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. In addition, we are now offering medication assisted treatment with Suboxone for opioid dependence. Frederick is a consultant for several area hospitals. His extensive experience includes emergency psychiatry, geriatric, adult, forensic and outpatient care.
Frederick Scholl MSN, APRN, PMHNP is a board-certified practitioner in psychiatry, licensed and registered in NYS. He specializes in treating a number of conditions with medication, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. In addition, we are now offering medication assisted treatment with Suboxone for opioid dependence. Frederick is a consultant for several area hospitals. His extensive experience includes emergency psychiatry, geriatric, adult, forensic and outpatient care.
![Photo of Marie C. Patton, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/359de90d-4ede-455b-9d41-8e276d35f59a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marie C. Patton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manorville, NY 11949 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Self-care is important to the overall wellbeing and health of an individual. Seeking assistance in sorting out day-to-day issues that impact your ability to attain your goals is the first step in working toward them. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, worried and sometimes depressed? I understand. Have a child or teen who is afraid, overwhelmed, moody and sometimes irritable? I understand that also. We all have experiences that have shaped who we are today. You are important and you have a story to tell. I am here to listen to yours and to be of service to you.
Self-care is important to the overall wellbeing and health of an individual. Seeking assistance in sorting out day-to-day issues that impact your ability to attain your goals is the first step in working toward them. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, worried and sometimes depressed? I understand. Have a child or teen who is afraid, overwhelmed, moody and sometimes irritable? I understand that also. We all have experiences that have shaped who we are today. You are important and you have a story to tell. I am here to listen to yours and to be of service to you.
![Photo of Susan Mogan, PMHNP, DNP, ANP-BC, AP-PMN, AHPCN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa609358-c8da-42f4-a1dc-83484270235d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Mogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, ANP-BC, AP-PMN, AHPCN
Verified Verified
Riverhead, NY 11901
Together through a trusting relationship clients and I will develop treatment plans that best suit each clients needs. I have practiced in multiple settings including office based, hospitals, Hospice/palliative care and home-care. My vast experience has provided a knowledge base that will help to provide the best care for my clients. I treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, OCD, bipolar disorders and the symptoms of dementia. I am open-minded, warm and inquisitive and am passionate about helping others. I look forward to becoming a part of the community and helping as many clients as I can.
Together through a trusting relationship clients and I will develop treatment plans that best suit each clients needs. I have practiced in multiple settings including office based, hospitals, Hospice/palliative care and home-care. My vast experience has provided a knowledge base that will help to provide the best care for my clients. I treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, OCD, bipolar disorders and the symptoms of dementia. I am open-minded, warm and inquisitive and am passionate about helping others. I look forward to becoming a part of the community and helping as many clients as I can.
![Photo of Gretchen Kretkowski-Rieger - Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/210bceac-14f7-435f-b60c-d28f6ca26a24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Quogue, NY 11942
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.
![Photo of Dr. Suparna Basu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d35f83c9-e8ef-462c-af8d-d8244838504d/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
![Photo of Dageria Brooks, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0328997b-0dce-46aa-b15d-40441e8e526b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dageria Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moriches, NY 11955 (Online Only)
You are looking for help and before you decide where to turn you have done your research. Trying to find the right person, the right fit to help you get to where you want to go. You want to feel normal and happy within yourself because you are tired of how you are feeling. Therefore seeking mental treatment is first step to your ideal self.
You are looking for help and before you decide where to turn you have done your research. Trying to find the right person, the right fit to help you get to where you want to go. You want to feel normal and happy within yourself because you are tired of how you are feeling. Therefore seeking mental treatment is first step to your ideal self.
![Photo of Rena Ferguson - Rena Ferguson, MD, PC, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f7ce8a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Here at 1000 Main, we treat anyone who wants to live their potential. We work on what you put in your mouth, what thoughts you put in your head, and what words come out of your mouth (and heart). Many people come saying, "Is this all my life is going to be ? Maybe I was meant to feel so bad." We help answer those questions. We may believe in you more than you believe in you. We believe depression and mental illness are a perfect storm of biology, psychology, and environment. We are equipped to look at them all so you can have brighter skies ahead.
Here at 1000 Main, we treat anyone who wants to live their potential. We work on what you put in your mouth, what thoughts you put in your head, and what words come out of your mouth (and heart). Many people come saying, "Is this all my life is going to be ? Maybe I was meant to feel so bad." We help answer those questions. We may believe in you more than you believe in you. We believe depression and mental illness are a perfect storm of biology, psychology, and environment. We are equipped to look at them all so you can have brighter skies ahead.
![Photo of Heather LoNigro - Heart and Soul Community Counseling, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ccd0546-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heart and Soul Community Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Quogue, NY 11942
Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc. has been serving the mental health needs of New York for 30 years. We have three offices in Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogu, NY. Heart and Soul is staffed with psychiatric nurse practitioners, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers and licensed mental health counselors. The center offers therapy, medication mangement, genetic testing for medicine, drama workshops, education and training of staff through local universities and an animal friendly environement. All this makes Heart and Soul a progressive and competent center.
Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc. has been serving the mental health needs of New York for 30 years. We have three offices in Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogu, NY. Heart and Soul is staffed with psychiatric nurse practitioners, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers and licensed mental health counselors. The center offers therapy, medication mangement, genetic testing for medicine, drama workshops, education and training of staff through local universities and an animal friendly environement. All this makes Heart and Soul a progressive and competent center.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Randy Ian Pardell, MD, DLFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e854ef2-23f5-4d74-99dc-13981ebb7fde/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation . Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation . Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
![Photo of Michael Brus - Transformation Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de25131-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Brus, M.D., founded Transformation Psychiatry to deliver a holistic, customized treatment program for each patient. With a passion for combining the science of psychopharmacology and the art of psychotherapy, Dr. Brus takes the time to understand your unique needs and tailors a treatment plan to help you make progress. Whether you receive psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two, Dr. Brus is dedicated to relieving your symptoms quickly and ensuring your long-term recovery. He specializes in borderline personality disorder, self-harm behaviors, anxiety, depression, and addiction. For more, visit his website: www.transformationpsychiatry.com
Michael Brus, M.D., founded Transformation Psychiatry to deliver a holistic, customized treatment program for each patient. With a passion for combining the science of psychopharmacology and the art of psychotherapy, Dr. Brus takes the time to understand your unique needs and tailors a treatment plan to help you make progress. Whether you receive psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two, Dr. Brus is dedicated to relieving your symptoms quickly and ensuring your long-term recovery. He specializes in borderline personality disorder, self-harm behaviors, anxiety, depression, and addiction. For more, visit his website: www.transformationpsychiatry.com
![Photo of John A. Zagat, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a6a3be2-fa1d-4958-a319-f5754c915dd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working in private practice in Westchester county (Harrison) as well as Greenwich Village. In addition to my practice, I am affiliated with NYU Child Study Center as an Adjunct Faculty Member, and I am a volunteer faculty member at New York Medical College. Previously, I was an attending psychiatrist at the Behavioral Health Center at Westchester Medical Center, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at New York Medical College.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working in private practice in Westchester county (Harrison) as well as Greenwich Village. In addition to my practice, I am affiliated with NYU Child Study Center as an Adjunct Faculty Member, and I am a volunteer faculty member at New York Medical College. Previously, I was an attending psychiatrist at the Behavioral Health Center at Westchester Medical Center, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at New York Medical College.
![Photo of Andrea Marie Zafonte, MS, , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d8ad143-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Marie Zafonte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Individual psychotherapy and medication management for ages 17 and over. A A PMHNP must utilize theoretical, scientific and clinical knowledge to manage health and illness states. We assess a patient’s mental health and focus on health promotion and disease prevention. We are also responsible for diagnosing mental illness, interpreting data and facilitating treatment planning, including prescribing medication when needed. Acting as support for patients and their families. Each Patient will have their treatment tailored to your individual and medical needs based on evidence based practice best suited for you.
Individual psychotherapy and medication management for ages 17 and over. A A PMHNP must utilize theoretical, scientific and clinical knowledge to manage health and illness states. We assess a patient’s mental health and focus on health promotion and disease prevention. We are also responsible for diagnosing mental illness, interpreting data and facilitating treatment planning, including prescribing medication when needed. Acting as support for patients and their families. Each Patient will have their treatment tailored to your individual and medical needs based on evidence based practice best suited for you.
![Photo of Titus B Okunlola - Babok Medical Health Services,Pc.(Mental Health), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3905f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Babok Medical Health Services,Pc.(Mental Health)
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212
I am double-boarded in Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and have been in practice for about 30 years. I was the former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn. I have expertise in the management and treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, especially in the younger age group. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, and I am committed to providing compassionate, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based mental health care that is customized to meet each of my patients' individual needs.
I am double-boarded in Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and have been in practice for about 30 years. I was the former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn. I have expertise in the management and treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, especially in the younger age group. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, and I am committed to providing compassionate, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based mental health care that is customized to meet each of my patients' individual needs.
See more therapy options for Westhampton Beach
Nearby Searches for Westhampton Beach
- Brookhaven
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- East Patchogue
- Holbrook
- Medford
- Patchogue
- Port Jefferson Station
- Riverhead
- Sag Harbor
- Sagaponack
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Westhampton Beach, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Westhampton Beach, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Grief |
100% | Coping Skills |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Self Esteem |
100% | Women's Issues |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | 1199SEIU |
100% | Aetna |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Westhampton Beach, NY see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Westhampton Beach?
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.