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 May Tsui, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ead88b9-28b9-4d97-90e3-57c82791dd86/1/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling anxious, depressed or angry? Do you have self-esteem issues? Are you troubled by past experiences? Do you struggle with school, work or relationships?
Psychotherapy can help you make changes to your life.
Feeling anxious, depressed or angry? Do you have self-esteem issues? Are you troubled by past experiences? Do you struggle with school, work or relationships?
Psychotherapy can help you make changes to your life.
![Photo of Carol L Kessler, MD, MDiv, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5023d050-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I serve children, adolescents and adults who are in need of appropriate diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I am able to prescribe medication when indicated, yet make this decision in the context of an evaluation of psychological, social, spiritual and familial circumstances. I strive to provide a compassionate, safe space for those seeking my care.
I serve children, adolescents and adults who are in need of appropriate diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I am able to prescribe medication when indicated, yet make this decision in the context of an evaluation of psychological, social, spiritual and familial circumstances. I strive to provide a compassionate, safe space for those seeking my care.
![Photo of Rozy Aurora, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc990556-ce17-49ac-b7b3-ce1f69f60076/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dual board certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, and have clinical experience in a wide range of settings with diverse patient population. I am trained to provide a variety of behavioral and medical treatments for helping children and adults of all ages. With patients and families, I like to work as a team to address their individual needs.
I am a dual board certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, and have clinical experience in a wide range of settings with diverse patient population. I am trained to provide a variety of behavioral and medical treatments for helping children and adults of all ages. With patients and families, I like to work as a team to address their individual needs.
![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 Nick Banker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a5cf80-2ddf-4738-be69-5e1894888fc7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nick Banker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Kisco, NY 10549
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in treating the patient as a whole. I believe in constantly expanding the various ways of treating patients; we start with building a therapeutic rapport, then assess the need for classical psychiatric medications while incorporating behavioral changes and herbal supplements as needed. Our office offers Spravato (nasal ketamine) and cutting edge TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) therapy, as well as MERT, so we are able to treat psychiatric symptoms and diagnoses from many different angles.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in treating the patient as a whole. I believe in constantly expanding the various ways of treating patients; we start with building a therapeutic rapport, then assess the need for classical psychiatric medications while incorporating behavioral changes and herbal supplements as needed. Our office offers Spravato (nasal ketamine) and cutting edge TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) therapy, as well as MERT, so we are able to treat psychiatric symptoms and diagnoses from many different angles.
![Photo of Sina Saidi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c718db7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best. I am a graduate of Harvard Medical School and the Johns Hopkins psychiatry residency program, and board-certified in psychiatry. I have over twenty years combined experience in psychiatry and primary care medicine, and work with adults and adolescents 16 and older. I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and psychiatric issues related to neurological and medical conditions.
My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best. I am a graduate of Harvard Medical School and the Johns Hopkins psychiatry residency program, and board-certified in psychiatry. I have over twenty years combined experience in psychiatry and primary care medicine, and work with adults and adolescents 16 and older. I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and psychiatric issues related to neurological and medical conditions.
![Photo of Laura Coleman, PMHNP, NC-BC, CNL, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d07d866-67a2-4bf4-a50d-205099af01b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Board Certified Nurse Coach providing medication management and psychotherapy for clients in need of mental health services. In my capacity as a Nurse Coach, Psych Nurse, and Psychiatric NP, I have worked with adult clients experiencing stress, anxiety, marginalization, PTSD, situational and generational traumas, and individuals with co-occurring mental and physical health challenges.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Board Certified Nurse Coach providing medication management and psychotherapy for clients in need of mental health services. In my capacity as a Nurse Coach, Psych Nurse, and Psychiatric NP, I have worked with adult clients experiencing stress, anxiety, marginalization, PTSD, situational and generational traumas, and individuals with co-occurring mental and physical health challenges.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy (Online Psychiatrist), MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b7eeceb-a338-4bc4-9634-5baabe999815/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gundu Reddy (Online Psychiatrist)
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rye Brook, NY 10573 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Jacqueline Penn, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af845f5e-f8eb-46e3-8bcf-42fd0a928cea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Penn is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats adults, children, and adolescents. She is dedicated to providing quality, evidence-based, individualized treatment. Dr. Penn is currently an attending psychiatrist and clinical professor at New York University (NYU) and is in private practice. She is licensed in New York and California. She completed her Child & Adolescent Fellowship at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and her residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY.
Dr. Penn is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats adults, children, and adolescents. She is dedicated to providing quality, evidence-based, individualized treatment. Dr. Penn is currently an attending psychiatrist and clinical professor at New York University (NYU) and is in private practice. She is licensed in New York and California. She completed her Child & Adolescent Fellowship at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and her residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY.
![Photo of Yadagiri Chepuru - Yadagiri Chepuru MD, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d8728b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Psychiatrist and Psychopharmacologist trained in England and united States. Been on faculty at NewYork Medical college and Albert Einstein College of Medicine . Currently the Chief Of Psychiatry at St john's Hospital, Yonkers, NY.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist and Psychopharmacologist trained in England and united States. Been on faculty at NewYork Medical college and Albert Einstein College of Medicine . Currently the Chief Of Psychiatry at St john's Hospital, Yonkers, NY.
![Photo of Saurabh Kaushik, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b15155b8-57c4-4639-9705-2231d28d6d28/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a strong psychopharmacologic background as well as a special interest in psychotherapy. I treat patients keeping in mind the impact of social, psychological, and behavioral factors on general health and quality of life. I have a wealth of experience in treating various disorders including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia. I emphasize on helping people heal and not just treat them as diagnostic cases. I am passionate about removing the stigma associated with mental illness and treating the mind and body as a whole entity.
I have a strong psychopharmacologic background as well as a special interest in psychotherapy. I treat patients keeping in mind the impact of social, psychological, and behavioral factors on general health and quality of life. I have a wealth of experience in treating various disorders including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia. I emphasize on helping people heal and not just treat them as diagnostic cases. I am passionate about removing the stigma associated with mental illness and treating the mind and body as a whole entity.
![Photo of Jyothsna Karlapalem, MD, CCTP II, NCTTP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce569f4-44ef-4abf-ba90-c84ef5adcfd1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jyothsna Karlapalem
Psychiatrist, MD, CCTP II, NCTTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10607
I offer warm, culturally sensitive, compassionate integrative psychiatry & psychotherapy services for those suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction. Mental health struggles can rob you of joy and make you feel alone and hopeless. Dealing with self-doubt and self-criticism is hard and painful. If you found it difficult to connect with providers, felt judged and misunderstood in the past or tried medications that just did not seem to help, don't give up! Finding the RIGHT provider that takes the time to listen, understands you, and has expertise in Integrative Psychiatry can make ALL the difference.
I offer warm, culturally sensitive, compassionate integrative psychiatry & psychotherapy services for those suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction. Mental health struggles can rob you of joy and make you feel alone and hopeless. Dealing with self-doubt and self-criticism is hard and painful. If you found it difficult to connect with providers, felt judged and misunderstood in the past or tried medications that just did not seem to help, don't give up! Finding the RIGHT provider that takes the time to listen, understands you, and has expertise in Integrative Psychiatry can make ALL the difference.
![Photo of Tamara Gordon, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc76feaa-a98d-46ac-8d55-6396beb8c6ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Visit our website for more info www.pnpenvision.com At Envision psychiatry, we offer comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Insomnia, OCD and ADHD. At present, we offer Telehealth and in-person session. We accept the following insurances. Cigna, Aetna, BCBS, UHC, oxford, Oscar, medicare, emblem health, GHI, 1199, CDPHP. Call, email or visit www.pnpenvision.com to schedule an appointment.
Visit our website for more info www.pnpenvision.com At Envision psychiatry, we offer comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Insomnia, OCD and ADHD. At present, we offer Telehealth and in-person session. We accept the following insurances. Cigna, Aetna, BCBS, UHC, oxford, Oscar, medicare, emblem health, GHI, 1199, CDPHP. Call, email or visit www.pnpenvision.com to schedule an appointment.
![Photo of Adam Kaufman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d77895f1-144f-4e27-8c48-8fe6f9535a91/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a board certified psychiatrist trained at Weill Cornell Medical College and NYU. I bring a compassionate and practical approach to helping you get where you want to go.
Welcome! I am a board certified psychiatrist trained at Weill Cornell Medical College and NYU. I bring a compassionate and practical approach to helping you get where you want to go.
![Photo of Dimitry Francois, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd3ef192-600f-4185-9da3-19af2915d7cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Ivy League-trained and triple-board certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. My expertise is in diagnosing and treating complex psychiatric conditions, including late-life depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, substance use, and other disorders.
I am an Ivy League-trained and triple-board certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. My expertise is in diagnosing and treating complex psychiatric conditions, including late-life depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, substance use, and other disorders.
![Photo of Christopher S. Aloezos - Christopher S. Aloezos, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21725593-d839-45b4-bfea-fe1698fe2d9a/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist board certified in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry and provide comprehensive mental health treatment for adults - including psychotherapy and medication management, when indicated. I combine evidence-based treatment with person-centered care, and understand the intrinsic importance of the doctor-patient alliance. While I am a mental health expert, I know that each patient brings their unique life story, culture, and perspective to their mental health needs. In doing so, I work together with my patients to build insight and ultimately achieve treatment goals.
I am a psychiatrist board certified in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry and provide comprehensive mental health treatment for adults - including psychotherapy and medication management, when indicated. I combine evidence-based treatment with person-centered care, and understand the intrinsic importance of the doctor-patient alliance. While I am a mental health expert, I know that each patient brings their unique life story, culture, and perspective to their mental health needs. In doing so, I work together with my patients to build insight and ultimately achieve treatment goals.
![Photo of Bridgette L Riley, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f07e08df-9968-4470-b37b-a0cbf60a1986/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bridgette L Riley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harrison, NY 10528
Life is a challenge and to be honest it is. These challenges you are dealing with can have an impact on your thought , mood and behavior. I want to help you navigate through those challenges and get you back in control .
Life is a challenge and to be honest it is. These challenges you are dealing with can have an impact on your thought , mood and behavior. I want to help you navigate through those challenges and get you back in control .
Isak Rabiyev
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601 (Online Only)
Currently affiliated with Readywell Psychiatric. My ideal client is someone seeking support for managing anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, who is motivated to actively engage in their care. They may struggle with focus, emotional regulation, or managing stress, and are looking for guidance in developing healthy coping strategies and improving their overall well-being. Their goal is to find balance in their lives, achieve greater emotional stability, and gain tools that empower them to thrive both personally and professionally.
Currently affiliated with Readywell Psychiatric. My ideal client is someone seeking support for managing anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, who is motivated to actively engage in their care. They may struggle with focus, emotional regulation, or managing stress, and are looking for guidance in developing healthy coping strategies and improving their overall well-being. Their goal is to find balance in their lives, achieve greater emotional stability, and gain tools that empower them to thrive both personally and professionally.
![Photo of Aleyamma John - Johns wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/603c164f-9da0-40bc-b645-515bc4f6650b/1/320x400.png)
Life can be filled with ups and downs, and sometimes we find ourselves in moments of uncertainty or difficulty. During these times, it is crucial to have a compassionate presence to lean on. Whether you're seeking advice, a listening ear, or simply a comforting virtual presence, I am here to provide that support. Remember, you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges and obstacles, and it is in these moments that a supportive person can make a world of difference. It is my purpose to be part of that journey, extending a virtual hand to help you navigate whatever you may be going through.
Life can be filled with ups and downs, and sometimes we find ourselves in moments of uncertainty or difficulty. During these times, it is crucial to have a compassionate presence to lean on. Whether you're seeking advice, a listening ear, or simply a comforting virtual presence, I am here to provide that support. Remember, you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges and obstacles, and it is in these moments that a supportive person can make a world of difference. It is my purpose to be part of that journey, extending a virtual hand to help you navigate whatever you may be going through.
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.