Psychiatrists in New York, NY
Dr. Balfour is a Yale University graduate and is triple board certified. At Discreet Medical, PC, we offer compassionate mental health services, using evidence based medicine, science, and collaborative care to provide our patients with tools to help them accomplish their goals. We specialize in treating patients suffering from mental conditions who may also be afflicted with concomitant medical conditions, such as cancer, autoimmune diseases or inflammatory diseases. We serve driven professionals to help support their goals and endeavors.
Dr. Balfour is a Yale University graduate and is triple board certified. At Discreet Medical, PC, we offer compassionate mental health services, using evidence based medicine, science, and collaborative care to provide our patients with tools to help them accomplish their goals. We specialize in treating patients suffering from mental conditions who may also be afflicted with concomitant medical conditions, such as cancer, autoimmune diseases or inflammatory diseases. We serve driven professionals to help support their goals and endeavors.
Alejandro Ramirez-Vallejo
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10075
Not accepting new clients
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and neuroscientist with a specialization in treating mood and anxiety disorders. I work with adults of all ages in psychotherapy and medication treatment. My treatment approach is tailored to each individual patient and draws from a number of disciplines including psychoanalysis, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and neuroscience. When appropriate, I combine these approaches with medication. I always work collaboratively with patients to determine what treatment combinations will best meet their treatment goals.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and neuroscientist with a specialization in treating mood and anxiety disorders. I work with adults of all ages in psychotherapy and medication treatment. My treatment approach is tailored to each individual patient and draws from a number of disciplines including psychoanalysis, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and neuroscience. When appropriate, I combine these approaches with medication. I always work collaboratively with patients to determine what treatment combinations will best meet their treatment goals.
Joseph Kasamba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016 (Online Only)
Hi! I look forward to meeting you! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience with an expertise in behavioral health and psychiatry. I currently practice in both inpatient hospital and outpatient office settings. I enjoy providing psychotherapy in conjunction with medication management to treat clients with sleep issues, mood disorders such as depression, bipolar and many other mental health conditions. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hi! I look forward to meeting you! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience with an expertise in behavioral health and psychiatry. I currently practice in both inpatient hospital and outpatient office settings. I enjoy providing psychotherapy in conjunction with medication management to treat clients with sleep issues, mood disorders such as depression, bipolar and many other mental health conditions. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
As a bilingual mental health nurse practitioner, I prioritize psychiatric evaluation and medication management, collaborating with patients to achieve balance. Providing personalized care, I accommodate diverse needs with flexible hours. Through medication management and collaborative decision-making, I empower clients to reclaim self-worth.
As a bilingual mental health nurse practitioner, I prioritize psychiatric evaluation and medication management, collaborating with patients to achieve balance. Providing personalized care, I accommodate diverse needs with flexible hours. Through medication management and collaborative decision-making, I empower clients to reclaim self-worth.
Emotional pain can be invisible and debilitating, and hold us back from achieving happiness. Our experiences can color the way we view ourselves and the world around us. Taking a look at ourselves and discovering patterns can help us make different choices and find a path to happiness.
Emotional pain can be invisible and debilitating, and hold us back from achieving happiness. Our experiences can color the way we view ourselves and the world around us. Taking a look at ourselves and discovering patterns can help us make different choices and find a path to happiness.
Jill Ahluwalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, Columbia University trained, psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) with 15 years of experience. I specialize in treating adults with a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, and insomnia. People come to me for medication, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
I am a board-certified, Columbia University trained, psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) with 15 years of experience. I specialize in treating adults with a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, and insomnia. People come to me for medication, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
Dr. Thistlethwaite is a board eligible adult psychiatrist and internal medicine physician. He completed his medical education and West Virginia University School of Medicine. Following completion of medical school Dr. Thistlethwaite completed residency training at WVU/Charleston Area Medical Center with a dual specialization in internal medicine and psychiatry. Dr. Thistlethwaite’s training included treatment of patients both in the inpatient and outpatient setting as well as management of patients with comorbid medical conditions.
Dr. Thistlethwaite is a board eligible adult psychiatrist and internal medicine physician. He completed his medical education and West Virginia University School of Medicine. Following completion of medical school Dr. Thistlethwaite completed residency training at WVU/Charleston Area Medical Center with a dual specialization in internal medicine and psychiatry. Dr. Thistlethwaite’s training included treatment of patients both in the inpatient and outpatient setting as well as management of patients with comorbid medical conditions.
We all face difficult or painful life situations. Depression or anxiety may overwhelm us. Yet “knowing what’s wrong” often isn’t enough. Perhaps this is one of those moments for you or your family. You're emotional state is impacting your work, your relationships, your life! Yet, even in the midst of this turmoil, you know that more is possible. You’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to take on the challenges in your life . You’re ready to grow and go after what you want. Most of all, you’re ready to become the person you want to be! I want to help you get there.
We all face difficult or painful life situations. Depression or anxiety may overwhelm us. Yet “knowing what’s wrong” often isn’t enough. Perhaps this is one of those moments for you or your family. You're emotional state is impacting your work, your relationships, your life! Yet, even in the midst of this turmoil, you know that more is possible. You’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to take on the challenges in your life . You’re ready to grow and go after what you want. Most of all, you’re ready to become the person you want to be! I want to help you get there.
Hannah Cochran, PMHNP-BC, is a New York State Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. ! Only offering medication management at this time, no controlled substances ! As a certified yoga teacher, her approach also emphasizes the development of skills that enhance well-being, such as meditation, breathwork, acceptance, compassion, and yoga. She believes that psychiatric issues are multifaceted, and healing should be, too, and aims to help her patients cultivate happy and healthy living. Her treatment philosophy integrates psychopharmacology, therapeutic techniques, and alternative holistic methods.
Hannah Cochran, PMHNP-BC, is a New York State Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. ! Only offering medication management at this time, no controlled substances ! As a certified yoga teacher, her approach also emphasizes the development of skills that enhance well-being, such as meditation, breathwork, acceptance, compassion, and yoga. She believes that psychiatric issues are multifaceted, and healing should be, too, and aims to help her patients cultivate happy and healthy living. Her treatment philosophy integrates psychopharmacology, therapeutic techniques, and alternative holistic methods.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
Roxanne Singer-Gheorghiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are impacted by Alzheimer's disease, dementia, memory loss, anxiety, depression, long COVID syndrome, and other neurological disorders. Many of my clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, such as frustration, sadness, grief, anger, and loneliness, in relation to dementia.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are impacted by Alzheimer's disease, dementia, memory loss, anxiety, depression, long COVID syndrome, and other neurological disorders. Many of my clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, such as frustration, sadness, grief, anger, and loneliness, in relation to dementia.
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I am a Manhattan-based psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy who provides personalized, trauma-informed treatment for a variety of conditions. Areas of focus include depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, personality, stress and trauma-related disorders, psychosis, focus and compulsive disorders, relationship strain, life transitions, career stresses, gender dysphoria, gender transitions and myriad other challenges. During your initial consultation, we will begin with a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, and will discuss your current concerns, past experiences and long-term goals.
I am a Manhattan-based psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy who provides personalized, trauma-informed treatment for a variety of conditions. Areas of focus include depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, personality, stress and trauma-related disorders, psychosis, focus and compulsive disorders, relationship strain, life transitions, career stresses, gender dysphoria, gender transitions and myriad other challenges. During your initial consultation, we will begin with a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, and will discuss your current concerns, past experiences and long-term goals.
Dr. Jason Reece Sadeh is a compassionate, highly skilled, and board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to patient care. With a blend of professionalism and a touch of levity, Dr. Sadeh brings a unique approach to psychiatry that combines expertise and a warm, relatable demeanor. Dr. Sadeh completed his undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis. He then graduated from the Sackler School of Medicine, New York Program. Dr. Sadeh completed his psychiatry residency at New York Medical College, Metropolitan Hospital, where he was selected to serve as chief resident during his final year.
Dr. Jason Reece Sadeh is a compassionate, highly skilled, and board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to patient care. With a blend of professionalism and a touch of levity, Dr. Sadeh brings a unique approach to psychiatry that combines expertise and a warm, relatable demeanor. Dr. Sadeh completed his undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis. He then graduated from the Sackler School of Medicine, New York Program. Dr. Sadeh completed his psychiatry residency at New York Medical College, Metropolitan Hospital, where he was selected to serve as chief resident during his final year.
I provide medicine, therapy, as well as guidance on lifestyle modification. In my practice, my goal is to provide a warm, supportive space where you feel safe enough to address issues concerning mood, anxiety, difficulties with motivation and focus, loneliness, work frustrations, relationship difficulties, and struggles around identity.
I provide medicine, therapy, as well as guidance on lifestyle modification. In my practice, my goal is to provide a warm, supportive space where you feel safe enough to address issues concerning mood, anxiety, difficulties with motivation and focus, loneliness, work frustrations, relationship difficulties, and struggles around identity.
My mission is to provide each patient and their family with my full and undivided attention, fostering a deep understanding of their individual experiences and background. I am committed to building an empathetic and supportive relationship, ensuring that each patient is equipped with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their care. Recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to psychiatric care, I offer a comprehensive evaluation to identify the most effective treatment options. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of modalities, my goal is to empower patients by presenting the
My mission is to provide each patient and their family with my full and undivided attention, fostering a deep understanding of their individual experiences and background. I am committed to building an empathetic and supportive relationship, ensuring that each patient is equipped with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their care. Recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to psychiatric care, I offer a comprehensive evaluation to identify the most effective treatment options. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of modalities, my goal is to empower patients by presenting the
Christine M. Fitzsimmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10036 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to equitable mental health care for adults and older adults. I provide psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in helping people overcome anxiety, depression and substance use disorders. I have Advanced level training in Somatic Experiencing Therapy. I take a harm reduction approach, centering the client's own goals for their wellbeing.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to equitable mental health care for adults and older adults. I provide psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in helping people overcome anxiety, depression and substance use disorders. I have Advanced level training in Somatic Experiencing Therapy. I take a harm reduction approach, centering the client's own goals for their wellbeing.
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and therapy. The different types of therapy I use include DBT, CBT, supportive and psychodynamic therapy. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and therapy. The different types of therapy I use include DBT, CBT, supportive and psychodynamic therapy. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
If you are anxious and depressed despite trying different medications and treatments and, you can't seem to get the relief you need, and if you still don't connect in relationships, and can't find satisfaction in your accomplishments, or engage in self-destructive behavior, then I am the person to contact. I have traditional training in psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, but I also use hypnosis, EMDR, and other innovative forms of treatment. I believe that communication is the key to effective treatment and that our teamwork is essential to the development of trust and empathy necessary in developing healthy relationships..
If you are anxious and depressed despite trying different medications and treatments and, you can't seem to get the relief you need, and if you still don't connect in relationships, and can't find satisfaction in your accomplishments, or engage in self-destructive behavior, then I am the person to contact. I have traditional training in psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, but I also use hypnosis, EMDR, and other innovative forms of treatment. I believe that communication is the key to effective treatment and that our teamwork is essential to the development of trust and empathy necessary in developing healthy relationships..
Dr. Hess is double board-certified in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. He has more than 24 years of experience providing patients with compassionate psychiatric care for depressive and bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and dementia.
Dr. Hess is double board-certified in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. He has more than 24 years of experience providing patients with compassionate psychiatric care for depressive and bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and dementia.
See more therapy options for New York
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in New York, NY
1,000+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
80% | Medication Management |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | ADHD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in New York, NY see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
36% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New York?
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.