Psychiatrists in 10001

Photo of Derek H. Suite, Psychiatrist, M D, M S
Derek H. Suite
Psychiatrist, M D, M S
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
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.
(855) 472-4843 View (855) 472-4843
Photo of Dr. Julia Wellin, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Julia Wellin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Wellin is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is double board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and in adult psychiatry, She has been in private practice for 44 years as well as working in community clinics. Dr. Wellin's practice focuses on medication management in conjunction with supportive psychotherapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. She encourages a team approach involving psychotherapists, medical doctors, and parents and family when appropriate, to provide holistic care for optimal outcomes. Her primary current focus is on adolescents and college-aged patients.
Dr. Wellin is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is double board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and in adult psychiatry, She has been in private practice for 44 years as well as working in community clinics. Dr. Wellin's practice focuses on medication management in conjunction with supportive psychotherapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. She encourages a team approach involving psychotherapists, medical doctors, and parents and family when appropriate, to provide holistic care for optimal outcomes. Her primary current focus is on adolescents and college-aged patients.
(646) 693-8473 View (646) 693-8473
Photo of Dr. Kristofer Joondeph-Breidbart, Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Dr. Kristofer Joondeph-Breidbart
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Kristofer Joondeph-Breidbart is a board certified adult psychiatrist. He earned his undergraduate degree and Masters in Teaching from Boston University, followed by his medical degree from the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Dr. Joondeph-Breidbart completed his residency in general adult psychiatry at Cambridge Health Alliance, a Harvard teaching hospital. Currently, Dr. Joondeph-Breidbart serves as a staff psychiatrist at Harvard University Health Services, where he works with both undergraduate and graduate students.
Dr. Kristofer Joondeph-Breidbart is a board certified adult psychiatrist. He earned his undergraduate degree and Masters in Teaching from Boston University, followed by his medical degree from the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Dr. Joondeph-Breidbart completed his residency in general adult psychiatry at Cambridge Health Alliance, a Harvard teaching hospital. Currently, Dr. Joondeph-Breidbart serves as a staff psychiatrist at Harvard University Health Services, where he works with both undergraduate and graduate students.
(929) 930-6809 View (929) 930-6809
Photo of Sally Habib, Psychiatrist, MD
Sally Habib
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Dr. Sally Habib is board certified in both general adult psychiatry as well as psychosomatic medicine. She specializes in providing medication management as well as psychotherapy. In addition to the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety disorders her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry as well as management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She has a private practice in Manhattan and Long Island and has previously served as the associate director of the Consultation Liaison Psychiatry service at NYU Langone Medical Center for over a decade.
Dr. Sally Habib is board certified in both general adult psychiatry as well as psychosomatic medicine. She specializes in providing medication management as well as psychotherapy. In addition to the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety disorders her areas of expertise include reproductive psychiatry as well as management of psychiatric symptoms occurring from complex medical illness. She has a private practice in Manhattan and Long Island and has previously served as the associate director of the Consultation Liaison Psychiatry service at NYU Langone Medical Center for over a decade.
(646) 759-1324 View (646) 759-1324
Photo of Dr. Deborah Bearman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Deborah Bearman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Deborah Bearman, PMHNP, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to helping those struggling with mental health concerns to live a more fulfilling life.  Deborah received her Master of Science in Nursing with a specialty in psychiatry from SUNY Upstate Medical University.  She is trained in psychiatric diagnosis, medication management, and psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies. Over the past 10 years she has gained valuable experience in a number of settings, including inpatient and outpatient facilities, community mental health clinics, and in private practice.
Deborah Bearman, PMHNP, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to helping those struggling with mental health concerns to live a more fulfilling life.  Deborah received her Master of Science in Nursing with a specialty in psychiatry from SUNY Upstate Medical University.  She is trained in psychiatric diagnosis, medication management, and psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies. Over the past 10 years she has gained valuable experience in a number of settings, including inpatient and outpatient facilities, community mental health clinics, and in private practice.
(332) 222-8695 View (332) 222-8695
Photo of Faiza Farooq, Psychiatrist, MD
Faiza Farooq
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Farooq was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan. She obtained her medical degree from one of the most prestigious medical schools in Pakistan, Dow Medical College, before she moved to the USA to pursue a career in Psychiatry. She completed her residency in General Psychiatry at the New York Medical College-Westchester Medical Center located in Valhalla, New York. She is ECFMG Certified and an ongoing member of the American Psychiatric Association.
Dr. Farooq was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan. She obtained her medical degree from one of the most prestigious medical schools in Pakistan, Dow Medical College, before she moved to the USA to pursue a career in Psychiatry. She completed her residency in General Psychiatry at the New York Medical College-Westchester Medical Center located in Valhalla, New York. She is ECFMG Certified and an ongoing member of the American Psychiatric Association.
(929) 407-2826 View (929) 407-2826
Photo of Dr. Jason Sadeh, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Sadeh
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Jason Reece Sadeh is a compassionate, highly skilled, and board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to patient care. With a blend of professionalism and a touch of levity, Dr. Sadeh brings a unique approach to psychiatry that combines expertise and a warm, relatable demeanor. Dr. Sadeh completed his undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis. He then graduated from the Sackler School of Medicine, New York Program. Dr. Sadeh completed his psychiatry residency at New York Medical College, Metropolitan Hospital, where he was selected to serve as chief resident during his final year.
Dr. Jason Reece Sadeh is a compassionate, highly skilled, and board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to patient care. With a blend of professionalism and a touch of levity, Dr. Sadeh brings a unique approach to psychiatry that combines expertise and a warm, relatable demeanor. Dr. Sadeh completed his undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis. He then graduated from the Sackler School of Medicine, New York Program. Dr. Sadeh completed his psychiatry residency at New York Medical College, Metropolitan Hospital, where he was selected to serve as chief resident during his final year.
(646) 956-5489 View (646) 956-5489
Photo of Dr. Amanda Carrera-Alvarez, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Amanda Carrera-Alvarez
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Amanda Carrera-Alvarez is double board-certified in Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Universidad Central del Caribe in Puerto Rico, completed a 1-year Internship in Internal Medicine at the Ramon Ruiz Arnau University Hospital in PR, and went on to complete Residency in Psychiatry at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx.
Dr. Amanda Carrera-Alvarez is double board-certified in Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Universidad Central del Caribe in Puerto Rico, completed a 1-year Internship in Internal Medicine at the Ramon Ruiz Arnau University Hospital in PR, and went on to complete Residency in Psychiatry at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx.
(646) 438-7415 View (646) 438-7415
Photo of Ruben Portnoy, Psychiatrist, MD
Ruben Portnoy
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I got my medical training in Argentina, my home country. After graduating in 1995, I moved to the U.S. to complete my Residency at Einstein Medical Center and my Fellowship at Thomas Jefferson Medical College, both in Philadelphia. For the past seven years, I've worked as a full-time attending psychiatrist at the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry of Mount Sinai Beth Israel, where I also supervised medical students as Assistant Professor. I'm now an analytic candidate at NYU's Postdoctoral Program in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis.
I got my medical training in Argentina, my home country. After graduating in 1995, I moved to the U.S. to complete my Residency at Einstein Medical Center and my Fellowship at Thomas Jefferson Medical College, both in Philadelphia. For the past seven years, I've worked as a full-time attending psychiatrist at the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry of Mount Sinai Beth Israel, where I also supervised medical students as Assistant Professor. I'm now an analytic candidate at NYU's Postdoctoral Program in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis.
(646) 759-0806 View (646) 759-0806
Photo of Sangmi Julie Park, Psychiatrist, MD
Sangmi Julie Park
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
A woman's journey through motherhood can be both magical and challenging, often with physical, mental, and emotional pains that are excruciatingly isolating. That's why I want to support your mental health and wellbeing during this major transitional period of your life, whether you're trying to conceive, pregnant, postpartum, experiencing infertility or grieving over a pregnancy loss.
A woman's journey through motherhood can be both magical and challenging, often with physical, mental, and emotional pains that are excruciatingly isolating. That's why I want to support your mental health and wellbeing during this major transitional period of your life, whether you're trying to conceive, pregnant, postpartum, experiencing infertility or grieving over a pregnancy loss.
(332) 286-3693 View (332) 286-3693
Photo of Dr. Molly Fels, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Molly Fels
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Molly Fels is a board-certified psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate education at Barnard College followed by medical school at Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Dr, Fels then completed her psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. She has previously worked in the Mount Sinai health system in the psychiatric emergency department and inpatient psychiatric unit.
Dr. Molly Fels is a board-certified psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate education at Barnard College followed by medical school at Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Dr, Fels then completed her psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. She has previously worked in the Mount Sinai health system in the psychiatric emergency department and inpatient psychiatric unit.
(646) 718-5352 View (646) 718-5352
Photo of Scott Warhit, Psychiatrist, MD
Scott Warhit
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10001
I am a board certified, licensed psychiatrist, working in Manhattan. I graduated from the University of Vermont College of Medicine and completed my residency at Mount Sinai St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital. My patients face a wide array of diagnoses and challenges, and I use a multidimensional approach in order to devise individualized treatment plans that include the use of medication and/or psychotherapy. My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. I am committed to helping my patients develop the tools they need to lead meaningful and healthy lives.
I am a board certified, licensed psychiatrist, working in Manhattan. I graduated from the University of Vermont College of Medicine and completed my residency at Mount Sinai St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital. My patients face a wide array of diagnoses and challenges, and I use a multidimensional approach in order to devise individualized treatment plans that include the use of medication and/or psychotherapy. My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. I am committed to helping my patients develop the tools they need to lead meaningful and healthy lives.
(516) 261-5152 View (516) 261-5152
Photo of Dr. Stuart Hedgpeth, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Stuart Hedgpeth
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Stuart Hedgpeth is a board-eligible psychiatrist. While Dr. Hedgpeth primarily focuses on medication management, he understands that mental health often requires approaches from multiple perspectives. Psychodynamic and supportive therapies are offered on an as-needed basis in addition to medication management. New patients are provided 60 minutes for initial visits and follow ups are given 30 minutes.
Dr. Stuart Hedgpeth is a board-eligible psychiatrist. While Dr. Hedgpeth primarily focuses on medication management, he understands that mental health often requires approaches from multiple perspectives. Psychodynamic and supportive therapies are offered on an as-needed basis in addition to medication management. New patients are provided 60 minutes for initial visits and follow ups are given 30 minutes.
(929) 262-3816 View (929) 262-3816
Photo of Sara Frischer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sara Frischer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
New York, NY 10001
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management. My philosophy is driven by my belief that no one’s mental illness looks alike and shouldn’t be treated as such. Because of this I have cultivated a passion for an individualized approach to care. It is my hope that my compassion, empathy and ability to understand the human experience facilitates a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment for all of my clients.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management. My philosophy is driven by my belief that no one’s mental illness looks alike and shouldn’t be treated as such. Because of this I have cultivated a passion for an individualized approach to care. It is my hope that my compassion, empathy and ability to understand the human experience facilitates a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment for all of my clients.
(929) 368-4540 View (929) 368-4540
Photo of Nargus Harounzadeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Nargus Harounzadeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Dr. Nargus Harounzadeh, DrNP, 500-RYT, is both a doctorally trained psychiatric nurse practitioner and a yoga therapist. She provides talk therapy, movement therapy, and medication management for attention and performance issues, relationship issues, mood issues, and self-esteem issues. She cares for patients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. Dr. Harounzadeh also serves as an Attending on the Forensic Inpatient Psychiatry Service at Bellevue Hospital Center and Clinical Instructor at NYU School of Medicine.
Dr. Nargus Harounzadeh, DrNP, 500-RYT, is both a doctorally trained psychiatric nurse practitioner and a yoga therapist. She provides talk therapy, movement therapy, and medication management for attention and performance issues, relationship issues, mood issues, and self-esteem issues. She cares for patients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. Dr. Harounzadeh also serves as an Attending on the Forensic Inpatient Psychiatry Service at Bellevue Hospital Center and Clinical Instructor at NYU School of Medicine.
(646) 762-1082 View (646) 762-1082
Photo of Dr. Maxine Zhou, Psychiatrist
Dr. Maxine Zhou
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Dr. Zhou is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience practicing in various clinical settings with an emphasis on mental health care in outpatient settings. She practices a holistic approach in developing an individualized plan to work towards a patient's goals. Dr. Zhou is experienced in treating depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder along with generalized anxiety and other related psychiatric disorders. Dr. Zhou received her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and completed her adult psychiatric residency at LSU Health Shreveport.
Dr. Zhou is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience practicing in various clinical settings with an emphasis on mental health care in outpatient settings. She practices a holistic approach in developing an individualized plan to work towards a patient's goals. Dr. Zhou is experienced in treating depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder along with generalized anxiety and other related psychiatric disorders. Dr. Zhou received her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and completed her adult psychiatric residency at LSU Health Shreveport.
(332) 322-2475 View (332) 322-2475
Photo of Megan Senko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Megan Senko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Megan is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has worked in the mental health field since 2014 and has a wide array of experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Megan is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has worked in the mental health field since 2014 and has a wide array of experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(332) 334-7264 View (332) 334-7264
Photo of Dr. Doug Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Doug Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I'm Dr. Mitchell, DNP, PMHNP- BC and US Air Force Veteran. As a psychiatric provider, my aim is to identify, address and modify conditions, limiting patterns and behaviors that diminish function and suppress growth. My philosophy is Bio-Psycho-Social; I acknowledge the whole dynamic being and maintain the explicit intent of fostering personal accountability, growth and development. I approach each therapeutic encounter as a unique opportunity to facilitate the process of expanding awareness and elevating consciousness. We believe illuminating barriers is the first step toward eliminating them.
I'm Dr. Mitchell, DNP, PMHNP- BC and US Air Force Veteran. As a psychiatric provider, my aim is to identify, address and modify conditions, limiting patterns and behaviors that diminish function and suppress growth. My philosophy is Bio-Psycho-Social; I acknowledge the whole dynamic being and maintain the explicit intent of fostering personal accountability, growth and development. I approach each therapeutic encounter as a unique opportunity to facilitate the process of expanding awareness and elevating consciousness. We believe illuminating barriers is the first step toward eliminating them.
(646) 859-2398 View (646) 859-2398
Photo of Nerisa Bryan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nerisa Bryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I was drawn to the psychiatric nurse practitioner role because I have an innate desire to treat and support individuals combating various mental health conditions. If you are struggling with ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, panic disorders, or depression, I will be your trusted partner on your journey to mental well-being. I understand that life’s experiences are as diverse as the people who live them, and I believe that everyone deserves personalized, compassionate care without judgment. My mission is simple yet profound: to empower individuals to live their best lives by providing expert medication management and unwavering support.
I was drawn to the psychiatric nurse practitioner role because I have an innate desire to treat and support individuals combating various mental health conditions. If you are struggling with ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, panic disorders, or depression, I will be your trusted partner on your journey to mental well-being. I understand that life’s experiences are as diverse as the people who live them, and I believe that everyone deserves personalized, compassionate care without judgment. My mission is simple yet profound: to empower individuals to live their best lives by providing expert medication management and unwavering support.
(929) 295-5071 View (929) 295-5071
Photo of Dr. Scott Shapiro - Scott Shapiro, MD - Specializing in Anxiety, Psychiatrist, MD
Scott Shapiro, MD - Specializing in Anxiety
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or burned out? Looking for help? Therapy + Meds? Perhaps it is affecting your work, relationships or your ability to unwind?
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or burned out? Looking for help? Therapy + Meds? Perhaps it is affecting your work, relationships or your ability to unwind?
(646) 461-3674 View (646) 461-3674

See more therapy options for 10001

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10001

600+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 10001 who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
97% Depression
89% Medication Management
81% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
81% Trauma and PTSD
81% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
79% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 10001 see their clients

78% Online Only
22% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10001?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.