Psychiatrists in Hawthorne, NY
![Photo of Denise Darling, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f1727b7-8cde-4781-ab80-5ff7d369db69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Darling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hawthorne, NY 10532
If you're grappling with the shadows of depression, the weight of anxiety, the depth of existential crisis, or other mental anguish, you are not alone. Your path towards healing begins with personalized care, compassion, and a commitment to your mental health and vitality. Specializing in integrative psychiatric care, I curate personalized support; we explore modalities like medication management, psychotherapy, supplements and lifestyle coaching. My passion is reigniting hope and empowering patients. Take the first step towards your revival and embark on a transformative mental well-being journey.
If you're grappling with the shadows of depression, the weight of anxiety, the depth of existential crisis, or other mental anguish, you are not alone. Your path towards healing begins with personalized care, compassion, and a commitment to your mental health and vitality. Specializing in integrative psychiatric care, I curate personalized support; we explore modalities like medication management, psychotherapy, supplements and lifestyle coaching. My passion is reigniting hope and empowering patients. Take the first step towards your revival and embark on a transformative mental well-being journey.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ayodele Adeigbola, Ayodele Adeigbola, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4eb6462-d335-46a1-bc1e-c32b143a6e69/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist. I graduated from Howard University College of Medicine and trained at New York Presbyterian Hospital, both Weill Cornell and Columbia campuses. I provide both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for a broad array of mental health concerns. I have experience working with people from diverse communities in a manner that is respectful of all that makes us unique in this world.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist. I graduated from Howard University College of Medicine and trained at New York Presbyterian Hospital, both Weill Cornell and Columbia campuses. I provide both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for a broad array of mental health concerns. I have experience working with people from diverse communities in a manner that is respectful of all that makes us unique in this world.
![Photo of Naveed Hussain Iqbal - MedicalPsych Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6aa6c6e6-3ba3-4de7-ac90-0c7daeb37bae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Naveed Iqbal, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist from The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Iqbal has over 42 years of clinical, teaching and academic experience in treatment of Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction Disorders, Psychotic Spectrum Disorders. Dr, Iqbal has received his specialized training in Psychiatry from Columbia University and Montefiore Medical Center / Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Patients receive Diagnostic assessment, pharmacological treatment, cognitive and individual therapy, TMS, Nasal and IV Ketaamine.
Naveed Iqbal, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist from The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Iqbal has over 42 years of clinical, teaching and academic experience in treatment of Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction Disorders, Psychotic Spectrum Disorders. Dr, Iqbal has received his specialized training in Psychiatry from Columbia University and Montefiore Medical Center / Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Patients receive Diagnostic assessment, pharmacological treatment, cognitive and individual therapy, TMS, Nasal and IV Ketaamine.
![Photo of Derek H. Suite, M D, M S, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ac0c81-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Derek H. Suite
Psychiatrist, M D, M S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10601 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am culturally sensitive & integrative in my approach and am always mindful to be caring, encouraging, attentive & supportive. I am able to prescribe traditional & nontraditional medications, but only as a last resort because there are so many other avenues to healing. I believe that achieving total wellness is about having the right conversation with the right person at the right time.
I am culturally sensitive & integrative in my approach and am always mindful to be caring, encouraging, attentive & supportive. I am able to prescribe traditional & nontraditional medications, but only as a last resort because there are so many other avenues to healing. I believe that achieving total wellness is about having the right conversation with the right person at the right time.
![Photo of Aleksandr Zverinskiy - Brave Health, MD, PhD, FNP-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9fd4b30-377b-4058-8929-65ff3f0a93b2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists and nurse practitioners with expertise in treating mental health. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
![Photo of Teju Odumosu - H & O Clinical PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b8777fb-8099-40c0-bb25-b3cfe6381554/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a dedicated and compassionate Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic healthcare that addresses both the physical and mental well-being of my patients. With a background in primary care and specialized training in mental health, I strive to offer comprehensive and integrated care that promotes overall health and quality of life. I am passionate about fostering a collaborative and empathetic relationship with my patients. I believe in active listening and open communication to truly understand each individual's unique needs and concerns.
As a dedicated and compassionate Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic healthcare that addresses both the physical and mental well-being of my patients. With a background in primary care and specialized training in mental health, I strive to offer comprehensive and integrated care that promotes overall health and quality of life. I am passionate about fostering a collaborative and empathetic relationship with my patients. I believe in active listening and open communication to truly understand each individual's unique needs and concerns.
![Photo of Andrea J Dolan, BSN , MPH, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0b6f6c5-2b0b-4b97-8929-b2e4735a8ee0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea J Dolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN , MPH, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10606
I am accepting new clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, lack of focus, insomnia, or trauma? Are you struggling with school, your job, your peers, or in your relationships? Do you feel alone or overwhelmed by physical or emotional suffering? Have you experienced the death of a loved one, a life transition such as divorce or loss of employment? Are you challenged by caregiver distress, caring for loved ones, or daily management of life? Is your goal to improve you or your loved ones emotional wellbeing, health, relationships, and quality of life?
I am accepting new clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, lack of focus, insomnia, or trauma? Are you struggling with school, your job, your peers, or in your relationships? Do you feel alone or overwhelmed by physical or emotional suffering? Have you experienced the death of a loved one, a life transition such as divorce or loss of employment? Are you challenged by caregiver distress, caring for loved ones, or daily management of life? Is your goal to improve you or your loved ones emotional wellbeing, health, relationships, and quality of life?
![Photo of Vanessa Leigh Carroll, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/449e104a-936a-4eda-8c73-28c518719693/4/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist I wear many different hats while supporting my clients, but first and foremost I’m a psychotherapist and that is where I do my most rewarding work. I use my background in Integrative Psychiatry to give my clients a 360 degree treatment plan, including supplements, lifestyle modification and psychiatric medications when appropriate. My approach appreciates that while psychiatric drugs and supplements can help they are not the cure and most patients need that therapeutic space in order to thrive and steer the treatment in a new direction.
As a psychiatrist I wear many different hats while supporting my clients, but first and foremost I’m a psychotherapist and that is where I do my most rewarding work. I use my background in Integrative Psychiatry to give my clients a 360 degree treatment plan, including supplements, lifestyle modification and psychiatric medications when appropriate. My approach appreciates that while psychiatric drugs and supplements can help they are not the cure and most patients need that therapeutic space in order to thrive and steer the treatment in a new direction.
![Photo of Lisa Turtz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fab3afd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York State, with over 30 years of experience. I have had a private practice in Larchmont, NY since 2016. I was also, a private practitioner, working at two Montefiore Medical groups from April 2008-2022. Prior to that, I worked as a Psychiatrist for HIP for many years from 1990 to April 2008, first at a Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic and then at two medical group sites. I enjoyed working as a Psychiatrist in a medical setting, collaborating with primary care physicians, where there is an interface between Psychiatry and Medicine.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York State, with over 30 years of experience. I have had a private practice in Larchmont, NY since 2016. I was also, a private practitioner, working at two Montefiore Medical groups from April 2008-2022. Prior to that, I worked as a Psychiatrist for HIP for many years from 1990 to April 2008, first at a Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic and then at two medical group sites. I enjoyed working as a Psychiatrist in a medical setting, collaborating with primary care physicians, where there is an interface between Psychiatry and Medicine.
![Photo of Teresa Salcedo, MS, NP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae9fe8ed-7282-4e9f-821f-ccb86ffa729a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Salcedo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, NP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Yonkers, NY 10710
“Every person on this earth is full of great possibilities that can be realized through imagination, effort, and perseverance.” – Scott Barry Kaufmann
“Every person on this earth is full of great possibilities that can be realized through imagination, effort, and perseverance.” – Scott Barry Kaufmann
My ideal client comes in and while they may not be able to verbalize directly, they are open to the process of working with me in a collaborative way to present what is going on in their lives currently. They will also have an idea of what their goals are or we can work together to define them. My ideal client recognizes that we are a team and that I am not there to merely give orders but to work as a team in implementing a plan moving forward. There are patients that come in because their prescriber has retired or relocated-of course that has its own management plan.
My ideal client comes in and while they may not be able to verbalize directly, they are open to the process of working with me in a collaborative way to present what is going on in their lives currently. They will also have an idea of what their goals are or we can work together to define them. My ideal client recognizes that we are a team and that I am not there to merely give orders but to work as a team in implementing a plan moving forward. There are patients that come in because their prescriber has retired or relocated-of course that has its own management plan.
![Photo of Feng Liu, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e09bd9b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Is your child smart but gets poor grades in school? Is your child too shy or too worried about blending in with peers? Does your child lose interest in things and refuse to go to school? Does your child seem angry, sad, tired, argumentative or unable to focus? I can help, with my 8 years of experience as an attending psychiatrist in the child inpatient unit at NYU-Bellevue Hospital and 12 years of experience as an outpatient psychiatrist in mid/downtown Manhattan, and with my knowledge and skills as a Clinical Assistant Professor in Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry at NYU School of Medicine.
Is your child smart but gets poor grades in school? Is your child too shy or too worried about blending in with peers? Does your child lose interest in things and refuse to go to school? Does your child seem angry, sad, tired, argumentative or unable to focus? I can help, with my 8 years of experience as an attending psychiatrist in the child inpatient unit at NYU-Bellevue Hospital and 12 years of experience as an outpatient psychiatrist in mid/downtown Manhattan, and with my knowledge and skills as a Clinical Assistant Professor in Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry at NYU School of Medicine.
![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 Philip Benjamin Cawkwell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f602f87-4d04-447e-9c51-876c19d67e47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
![Photo of Jessica Eisenberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3650f68-9a24-482b-b9ed-95727642e316/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in New York. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to feel better understood as individuals, reach their personal goals, and forge more meaningful relationships. To accomplish this, I approach my patients with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize integrated and holistic methods of treatment. I’m trained in various modalities of evidenced based psychotherapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic psychotherapy. When the need arises, I also prescribe medication to enhance treatment.
I am a double board certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in New York. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to feel better understood as individuals, reach their personal goals, and forge more meaningful relationships. To accomplish this, I approach my patients with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize integrated and holistic methods of treatment. I’m trained in various modalities of evidenced based psychotherapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic psychotherapy. When the need arises, I also prescribe medication to enhance treatment.
![Photo of Yehuda Lerea, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adb54971-e85c-48c6-87d0-0e2463e4391d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing in Manhattan and Westchester, New York. I approach my work with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize an integrated and holistic approach to help my patients develop insight and greater awareness into their lived experience. I’m trained in various modalities of psychotherapy as well as medication management and often combine both. If working together, we will develop a treatment approach collaboratively that is consistent with your goals.
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing in Manhattan and Westchester, New York. I approach my work with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize an integrated and holistic approach to help my patients develop insight and greater awareness into their lived experience. I’m trained in various modalities of psychotherapy as well as medication management and often combine both. If working together, we will develop a treatment approach collaboratively that is consistent with your goals.
![Photo of Michael Schwartz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd732d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Board Certified Psychiatrist, I bring a compassionate and warm approach to providing care while making well-informed recommendations as a pharmacologist. I treat patients age 5 years and older, and have a broad range of mental health care experience in the areas of psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I provide well-researched, comprehensive care to meet the needs of my clients, with their best interest in mind.
As a Board Certified Psychiatrist, I bring a compassionate and warm approach to providing care while making well-informed recommendations as a pharmacologist. I treat patients age 5 years and older, and have a broad range of mental health care experience in the areas of psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I provide well-researched, comprehensive care to meet the needs of my clients, with their best interest in mind.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5125878-f613-4ba9-9308-3d4f41c39842/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
![Photo of Jacklyn Landres, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2efd3e66-02c3-45a7-8579-d1afe5b7fe50/1/320x400.png)
Jacklyn is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
Jacklyn is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
![Photo of Margarette Dessources, DNP, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdaf5e09-6dea-44cf-a73e-e17a0f1303d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margarette Dessources
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Rye Brook, NY 10573
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have nine years of experience in treatment of mental disorders across the lifespan. My areas of expertise include; Diagnosis and treatment for Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, OCD and trauma-related disorders, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I work primarily in underserved communities in New York. My approach is grounded in evidence-based treatment. I utilize an integrative model that draws upon cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness based copying strategies.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have nine years of experience in treatment of mental disorders across the lifespan. My areas of expertise include; Diagnosis and treatment for Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, OCD and trauma-related disorders, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I work primarily in underserved communities in New York. My approach is grounded in evidence-based treatment. I utilize an integrative model that draws upon cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness based copying strategies.
See more therapy options for Hawthorne
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hawthorne, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hawthorne, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Spirituality |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Hawthorne, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hawthorne?
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.