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 Henna Warman, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e76c05ba-b27c-4440-838f-dbf33bbd36d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Henna Warman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Henna and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 7 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Masters of Science in Nursing from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing. I specialize in Medication Management, Anxiety, Depression and Mood Disorders. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
Hello, my name is Henna and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 7 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Masters of Science in Nursing from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing. I specialize in Medication Management, Anxiety, Depression and Mood Disorders. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
![Photo of Shauna Roach - Shauna Roach Psychiatric NP, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aaa5e225-63e8-4f35-bd74-e6542ce78cbd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shauna Roach Psychiatric NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valhalla, NY 10595 (Online Only)
One size does not fit all especially when it comes to your mental health, I am sure you will agree. You not only want expert care, but you want to feel as though your concerns are validated. You want to feel empowered to move to the next step with someone who is consistent and cares about you. I want to be your accountability partner on your journey to recovery. In addition to managing your medication management, I offer brief psychotherapy to support your medication management regimen. I want to also give you a prescription for lifestyle changes to improve your mental health.
One size does not fit all especially when it comes to your mental health, I am sure you will agree. You not only want expert care, but you want to feel as though your concerns are validated. You want to feel empowered to move to the next step with someone who is consistent and cares about you. I want to be your accountability partner on your journey to recovery. In addition to managing your medication management, I offer brief psychotherapy to support your medication management regimen. I want to also give you a prescription for lifestyle changes to improve your mental health.
![Photo of Anu Vazhappilly - Vazhappilly Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c857730-a212-4694-85e7-be87d75eda98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vazhappilly Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583 (Online Only)
Welcome to Vazhappilly Wellness. My name is Anu Vazhappilly and I am a board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of dedicated service to those navigating life's intricate challenges. My commitment to patient-centered care blends holistic principles with a profound understanding of psychodynamic and humanistic approaches. Specializing in guiding individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and ADHD with the innovative application of EMDR Therapy. Vazhappilly Wellness is deeply rooted in cultural sensitivity, ensuring that every individual's unique background is honored and respected.
Welcome to Vazhappilly Wellness. My name is Anu Vazhappilly and I am a board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of dedicated service to those navigating life's intricate challenges. My commitment to patient-centered care blends holistic principles with a profound understanding of psychodynamic and humanistic approaches. Specializing in guiding individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and ADHD with the innovative application of EMDR Therapy. Vazhappilly Wellness is deeply rooted in cultural sensitivity, ensuring that every individual's unique background is honored and respected.
![Photo of Kimberly Jackson - Well Space Women's Mental Health care, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97fc2804-cf38-4711-9987-fc91cd1cb040/1/320x400.jpeg)
Well Space Women's Mental Health care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10601 (Online Only)
I'm so glad you found me! I have more than 30 years of experience and specialize in women's mental health, perinatal and reproductive psychiatry. I offer free phone consultations and can answer any questions you have before making an appointment. I am one of the few providers in reproductive psychiatry that accepts insurance and we can confirm your benefit coverage before your appointment. Let's work together to decide the best possible treatment options that work for you.
I'm so glad you found me! I have more than 30 years of experience and specialize in women's mental health, perinatal and reproductive psychiatry. I offer free phone consultations and can answer any questions you have before making an appointment. I am one of the few providers in reproductive psychiatry that accepts insurance and we can confirm your benefit coverage before your appointment. Let's work together to decide the best possible treatment options that work for you.
![Photo of David Jannain, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fec92856-2e70-40d1-b9b5-275c0e73d141/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Uncertain how to maintain your relationships and daily life? Trying to get better mental health support that respects your unique background and experiences? Life can seem to bring its share of difficulty, but I'm here to help you shoulder that weight. If you’re looking for support in a compassionate, completely judgement-free space, I can help. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in evidence-based medication management, CBT, lifestyle interventions, and mindfulness techniques. I specialize in treating ADHD and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Uncertain how to maintain your relationships and daily life? Trying to get better mental health support that respects your unique background and experiences? Life can seem to bring its share of difficulty, but I'm here to help you shoulder that weight. If you’re looking for support in a compassionate, completely judgement-free space, I can help. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in evidence-based medication management, CBT, lifestyle interventions, and mindfulness techniques. I specialize in treating ADHD and LGBTQIA+ issues.
![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 Faiq A Hameedi, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54fb1e48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Anxiety & Depression Center of Scarsdale is a unique, private psychiatry practice located in lower Westchester County and the Bronx. Dr. Hameedi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the discreet treatment of individuals experiencing mental illness and psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Hameedi understands that each individual is unique and requires a custom-tailored approach to address that person’s needs. Our goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment so that our patients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers which limit their potential.
The Anxiety & Depression Center of Scarsdale is a unique, private psychiatry practice located in lower Westchester County and the Bronx. Dr. Hameedi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the discreet treatment of individuals experiencing mental illness and psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Hameedi understands that each individual is unique and requires a custom-tailored approach to address that person’s needs. Our goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment so that our patients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers which limit their potential.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99382285-5ba7-4de3-904b-322cf681bbbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![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
Dr. Mina Oza, MD is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over forty six years of experience in the medical field. She has worked extensively in inpatient, outpatient and private practice. She has served as supervisor for therapists, nurses, interns, residents and medical students. She graduated from Lady Hardinge Medical College, University Of Delhi medical school in 1974. She completed her training at the Elmhurst Hospital in NY. Her current areas of interest are child and adolescent psychiatry, peripartum and postpartum and women’s health. She now serves at the Medical Director of 2nd ARC psychiatric associates.
Dr. Mina Oza, MD is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over forty six years of experience in the medical field. She has worked extensively in inpatient, outpatient and private practice. She has served as supervisor for therapists, nurses, interns, residents and medical students. She graduated from Lady Hardinge Medical College, University Of Delhi medical school in 1974. She completed her training at the Elmhurst Hospital in NY. Her current areas of interest are child and adolescent psychiatry, peripartum and postpartum and women’s health. She now serves at the Medical Director of 2nd ARC psychiatric associates.
![Photo of Dr. Julia Novikov, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78e2d6ba-690e-421f-8bc8-162f02df313a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Double board-certified psychiatrist with subspecialties in general psychiatry, psychosomatic medicine, and reproductive psychiatry. I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to adult individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Subspecialized expertise allows me to address the unique mental health concerns that arise with various comorbid chronic medical conditions as well as all stages of female reproductive cycle. I believe in a patient-centered approach, each individual's unique needs are taken into consideration in developing a personalized treatment plan.
Double board-certified psychiatrist with subspecialties in general psychiatry, psychosomatic medicine, and reproductive psychiatry. I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to adult individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Subspecialized expertise allows me to address the unique mental health concerns that arise with various comorbid chronic medical conditions as well as all stages of female reproductive cycle. I believe in a patient-centered approach, each individual's unique needs are taken into consideration in developing a personalized treatment plan.
![Photo of Shajiuddin Faraz Mohammed, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1682b21-d9c1-4fec-b4e1-46272bbcbd93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mohammed is well known in the community for his empathetic manner, and his ability to develop a therapeutic relationship with his patients. He can work with patients from all age groups, including children with special needs. Dr. Mohammed is fluent in English, Hindi and Urdu and welcomes patients of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations.
Dr. Mohammed is well known in the community for his empathetic manner, and his ability to develop a therapeutic relationship with his patients. He can work with patients from all age groups, including children with special needs. Dr. Mohammed is fluent in English, Hindi and Urdu and welcomes patients of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ef2f9fb-79a2-4354-b765-2957f79ea607/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, with a background in HIV, psychiatry, integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance. I have also pursued an additional two years of training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU psychoanalytic institute. I feel that most people neglect psychiatric symptoms and either suffer in silence , either because they do not realize that their symptoms are treatable or they believe that they have to be strong. Many people are on the wrong medication, on sub-therapeutic therapeutic doses. In my experience , with care and perseverance, most people can get better, and achieve a better quality of life.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, with a background in HIV, psychiatry, integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance. I have also pursued an additional two years of training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU psychoanalytic institute. I feel that most people neglect psychiatric symptoms and either suffer in silence , either because they do not realize that their symptoms are treatable or they believe that they have to be strong. Many people are on the wrong medication, on sub-therapeutic therapeutic doses. In my experience , with care and perseverance, most people can get better, and achieve a better quality of life.
![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 David C Saunders, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28349ca7-c226-4ee1-860e-2c3d54c95eaa/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with any person - child, adolescent, adult - who is seeking treatment. They may be suffering from depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. Or perhaps they have never been diagnosed with a clinical disorder, but are seeking help to reduce stress during a difficult time, such as a challenging life transition or the death of a loved one. Those seeking a highly individualized and comprehensive approach to mental health treatment might find my practice particularly attractive, given what it offers.
I work with any person - child, adolescent, adult - who is seeking treatment. They may be suffering from depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. Or perhaps they have never been diagnosed with a clinical disorder, but are seeking help to reduce stress during a difficult time, such as a challenging life transition or the death of a loved one. Those seeking a highly individualized and comprehensive approach to mental health treatment might find my practice particularly attractive, given what it offers.
![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 Christopher Zeoli, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b07c69a-7ad3-4583-873a-44551fc80f64/1/320x400.png)
Christopher Zeoli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Yonkers, NY 10710 (Online Only)
Christopher holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing, from Stony Brook University, and is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has extensive clinical experience and has worked in various psychiatric and mental health care settings, both inpatient and outpatient, seeing patients across the lifespan.
Christopher holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing, from Stony Brook University, and is a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has extensive clinical experience and has worked in various psychiatric and mental health care settings, both inpatient and outpatient, seeing patients across the lifespan.
![Photo of Zhanna Berman - Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10e759b7-1a39-4a69-a004-9b5deed685cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10602 (Online Only)
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 6 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents and adults.
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 6 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Patricia Grendell, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccfb1b8d-c987-416f-95e9-af7debb752b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Grendell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing a wide range of acute and chronic stress and distress using a multitude of medicine-based and non-pharmacological methods to achieve increased well-being and recovery. I tailor treatment to the goals, needs, and comfort level of each individual at her or his own pace.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing a wide range of acute and chronic stress and distress using a multitude of medicine-based and non-pharmacological methods to achieve increased well-being and recovery. I tailor treatment to the goals, needs, and comfort level of each individual at her or his own pace.
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.