Psychiatrists in 10003

Photo of Mary Asiedu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mary Asiedu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
New York, NY 10003
I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health across all demographics. I partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment in life!
I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health across all demographics. I partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment in life!
(347) 647-2556 View (347) 647-2556
Photo of Norman Y. Lee, Psychiatrist, MD
Norman Y. Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10003
I am a board certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist, specializing in mood, anxiety, and personality disorders. In addition to my private practice, I am an attending psychiatrist at Columbia University where I teach medical students and residents. I will work with you to develop a treatment plan which can include therapy and/or medications. As a graduate of the Juilliard School, I have a special interest in helping people in the performing arts who are struggling with various mood disorders. I work with clients of all different ages who hope to live a more satisfying life. Early morning, evening, and select weekend appts are available.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist, specializing in mood, anxiety, and personality disorders. In addition to my private practice, I am an attending psychiatrist at Columbia University where I teach medical students and residents. I will work with you to develop a treatment plan which can include therapy and/or medications. As a graduate of the Juilliard School, I have a special interest in helping people in the performing arts who are struggling with various mood disorders. I work with clients of all different ages who hope to live a more satisfying life. Early morning, evening, and select weekend appts are available.
(646) 681-5959 View (646) 681-5959
Photo of Daniel Thomas McGovern, Psychiatrist, MD
Daniel Thomas McGovern
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10003
Greetings! I’m a board-certified psychiatrist providing medication management and psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and more. I always aim to offer a collaborative space where you can explore your experiences and make meaningful changes through an array of both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Together we can explore individualized evidence-based interventions for all your needs. I strive for warmth, empathy, and clarity so you feel supported in your progress. If you’re ready to move forward, I invite you to reach out—we’ll find a path that aligns with your goals.
Greetings! I’m a board-certified psychiatrist providing medication management and psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and more. I always aim to offer a collaborative space where you can explore your experiences and make meaningful changes through an array of both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Together we can explore individualized evidence-based interventions for all your needs. I strive for warmth, empathy, and clarity so you feel supported in your progress. If you’re ready to move forward, I invite you to reach out—we’ll find a path that aligns with your goals.
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Photo of Robin Blaize, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Robin Blaize
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there! I’m a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, deeply committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. Are you looking for someone to help you tackle life's challenges head on? Whether you're dealing with anxiety disorder, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, or substance use disorder, I believe I have the tools to assist you on your journey.
Hi there! I’m a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, deeply committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. Are you looking for someone to help you tackle life's challenges head on? Whether you're dealing with anxiety disorder, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, or substance use disorder, I believe I have the tools to assist you on your journey.
(646) 798-9108 View (646) 798-9108
Photo of Annie Chen, Psychiatrist, MD
Annie Chen
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
A New Jersey native, Dr. Chen is the youngest daughter of immigrant parents from Taiwan. She earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology from UCLA, followed by a Master’s in Psychology in Education from Columbia University, with Postbaccalaureate work in Pre-Health Studies from NYU.. She completed her medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine.
A New Jersey native, Dr. Chen is the youngest daughter of immigrant parents from Taiwan. She earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology from UCLA, followed by a Master’s in Psychology in Education from Columbia University, with Postbaccalaureate work in Pre-Health Studies from NYU.. She completed her medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine.
(646) 506-3868 View (646) 506-3868
Photo of Dr. Ahmed Al-Katib, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ahmed Al-Katib
Psychiatrist, MD
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
Navigating mental health can be frustrating, here are some tips. If you want someone who will listen to you: look for a supportive therapist. If you want someone to tell you what to do and challenge your beliefs: look for a CBT-trained therapist. If you always feel lonely/empty and have been depressed for as long as you remember: Look for a DBT therapist. If you've needed medication before & tried to go organic but are still struggling: see a prescribing clinician, NPs & PAs are a good starting point, but psychiatrists will know more. If you want to understand why you're feeling the way you are and level up: come see me.
Navigating mental health can be frustrating, here are some tips. If you want someone who will listen to you: look for a supportive therapist. If you want someone to tell you what to do and challenge your beliefs: look for a CBT-trained therapist. If you always feel lonely/empty and have been depressed for as long as you remember: Look for a DBT therapist. If you've needed medication before & tried to go organic but are still struggling: see a prescribing clinician, NPs & PAs are a good starting point, but psychiatrists will know more. If you want to understand why you're feeling the way you are and level up: come see me.
(646) 960-3444 View (646) 960-3444
Photo of Rachel Feit, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rachel Feit
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I specialize in treating adults struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, and women's health-related issues.
I specialize in treating adults struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, and women's health-related issues.
(646) 759-0042 View (646) 759-0042
Photo of Chelsea Chaffee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Chelsea Chaffee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Hi! I am a board-certified adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner based in New York. I received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Columbia University and I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. My main areas of focus include perinatal mental health, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, menopause, fertility challenges including fetal loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, sleep disorders, spirituality, and more. I typically offer and recommend psychotherapy in addition to medication management as it has proven to be a very effective method for helping my patients improve over the years.
Hi! I am a board-certified adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner based in New York. I received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Columbia University and I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. My main areas of focus include perinatal mental health, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, menopause, fertility challenges including fetal loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, sleep disorders, spirituality, and more. I typically offer and recommend psychotherapy in addition to medication management as it has proven to be a very effective method for helping my patients improve over the years.
(646) 760-8607 View (646) 760-8607
Photo of Kristofer Generales, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, BC
Kristofer Generales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I am an expert adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained his doctoral degree in nursing practice from Fairfield University and I understand that mental well-being is integral to transformative growth. I offer a safe and supportive environment at Orenda Psychiatry in New York and Brooklyn, NY. This approach helps my patients to discuss their mental and emotional challenges openly. I build a collaborative relationship and guide my patients to attain self-awareness and healing.
I am an expert adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained his doctoral degree in nursing practice from Fairfield University and I understand that mental well-being is integral to transformative growth. I offer a safe and supportive environment at Orenda Psychiatry in New York and Brooklyn, NY. This approach helps my patients to discuss their mental and emotional challenges openly. I build a collaborative relationship and guide my patients to attain self-awareness and healing.
(646) 759-9712 View (646) 759-9712
Photo of Vijal Parikh - Dr. Vijal Parikh, D.O., Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Vijal Parikh, D.O.
Psychiatrist, DO
New York, NY 10003
As a licensed medical doctor and practicing psychiatrist, I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of mental conditions. As an osteopathic, physician, my philosophy incorporates a complete integration of the mind and the body. My training, both in psychopharmacology (medication) and psychotherapy (talk therapy), helps me incorporate both treatment modalities in my practice. This approach also relates to work I do in public mental health where I work part time providing mental health care to the homeless, severely mentally ill and LGBT at risk youth.
As a licensed medical doctor and practicing psychiatrist, I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of mental conditions. As an osteopathic, physician, my philosophy incorporates a complete integration of the mind and the body. My training, both in psychopharmacology (medication) and psychotherapy (talk therapy), helps me incorporate both treatment modalities in my practice. This approach also relates to work I do in public mental health where I work part time providing mental health care to the homeless, severely mentally ill and LGBT at risk youth.
(646) 681-6152 View (646) 681-6152
Photo of Gauri Khurana, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Gauri Khurana
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I am a Yale and NYU-trained child and adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the care of children ages 5 and up, with a particular focus on college and graduate students navigating the challenges of emerging adulthood. Located in Union Square, my practice is easily accessible to students and young professionals in downtown NYC, particularly close to New York University (NYU), Parsons/The New School, and the School of Visual Arts (SVA.)
I am a Yale and NYU-trained child and adolescent psychiatrist specializing in the care of children ages 5 and up, with a particular focus on college and graduate students navigating the challenges of emerging adulthood. Located in Union Square, my practice is easily accessible to students and young professionals in downtown NYC, particularly close to New York University (NYU), Parsons/The New School, and the School of Visual Arts (SVA.)
(646) 386-2151 View (646) 386-2151
Photo of Sydney Shope, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Sydney Shope
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, ADHD, or trauma, who is ready to explore therapy and/or medication to improve their quality of life. They seek a compassionate, collaborative partner in care—someone who listens deeply, respects their identity and goals, and provides evidence-based, personalized treatment. They want to feel more in control, connected, and understood—and they come to care because they know healing is possible with the right support. Together, we work to build a sense of stability, self-trust, and lasting emotional wellness.
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, ADHD, or trauma, who is ready to explore therapy and/or medication to improve their quality of life. They seek a compassionate, collaborative partner in care—someone who listens deeply, respects their identity and goals, and provides evidence-based, personalized treatment. They want to feel more in control, connected, and understood—and they come to care because they know healing is possible with the right support. Together, we work to build a sense of stability, self-trust, and lasting emotional wellness.
(332) 281-6351 View (332) 281-6351
Photo of Sitora Mirsoatova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Sitora Mirsoatova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
New York, NY 10003
Ms. Sitora Mirsoatova is a caring, non-judgmental, and friendly adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner. She helps patients facing mental health issues such as anxiety, hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Ms. Mirsoatova offers virtual consultations at Orenda Psychiatry in the states of New York and New Jersey.
Ms. Sitora Mirsoatova is a caring, non-judgmental, and friendly adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner. She helps patients facing mental health issues such as anxiety, hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Ms. Mirsoatova offers virtual consultations at Orenda Psychiatry in the states of New York and New Jersey.
(347) 767-5246 View (347) 767-5246
Photo of Yochai Re'em, Psychiatrist, MD
Yochai Re'em
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10003
I treat a spectrum of psychiatric and psychological concerns, focusing on issues such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as challenges such as relationship difficulties, life transitions, personal fulfillment, and identity. I incorporate a psychotherapy that has potential to be deep, meaningful, and rewarding. For those who may benefit from psychiatric medication, I use a collaborative approach when deciding on medications and their utility.
I treat a spectrum of psychiatric and psychological concerns, focusing on issues such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as challenges such as relationship difficulties, life transitions, personal fulfillment, and identity. I incorporate a psychotherapy that has potential to be deep, meaningful, and rewarding. For those who may benefit from psychiatric medication, I use a collaborative approach when deciding on medications and their utility.
(332) 239-5372 View (332) 239-5372
Photo of Yuliya Hryb, Psychiatrist, MD
Yuliya Hryb
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I am a New York Medical College, Lenox Hill Hospital, and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai trained psychiatrist. I see kids, teens, and adults for therapy and also prescribe medications. Over the years, I have worked in a variety of settings including hospitals as a consultant to medical and surgical teams, inpatient psychiatric units, VA Hospital, various outpatient programs including intensive eating disorder program at Mount Sinai and the New School student health center. Currently, I hold a faculty position at NYU Langone Tisch Hospital. I have also been affiliated with NYU Brooklyn and Lenox Hill Hospitals.
I am a New York Medical College, Lenox Hill Hospital, and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai trained psychiatrist. I see kids, teens, and adults for therapy and also prescribe medications. Over the years, I have worked in a variety of settings including hospitals as a consultant to medical and surgical teams, inpatient psychiatric units, VA Hospital, various outpatient programs including intensive eating disorder program at Mount Sinai and the New School student health center. Currently, I hold a faculty position at NYU Langone Tisch Hospital. I have also been affiliated with NYU Brooklyn and Lenox Hill Hospitals.
(718) 684-9647 View (718) 684-9647
Photo of Meredith Hobart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP-, BC
Meredith Hobart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP-, BC
New York, NY 10003
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
(347) 321-7538 View (347) 321-7538
Photo of Alexis Sciarrino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Alexis Sciarrino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
New York, NY 10003
Alexis Sciarrino, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry across the lifespan. Ms. Sciarrino received her Masters of Science degree from Hunter College. She has dedicated her life and her career to psychiatry. She strives to provide the most up to date evidence based care. She utilizes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to ensure positive treatment outcomes and long term success. She has successful experience working with patients diagnosed with anxiety and depressive disorders as well as OCD, PTSD, Bipolar and ADHD diagnoses.
Alexis Sciarrino, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry across the lifespan. Ms. Sciarrino received her Masters of Science degree from Hunter College. She has dedicated her life and her career to psychiatry. She strives to provide the most up to date evidence based care. She utilizes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to ensure positive treatment outcomes and long term success. She has successful experience working with patients diagnosed with anxiety and depressive disorders as well as OCD, PTSD, Bipolar and ADHD diagnoses.
(347) 427-5765 View (347) 427-5765
Photo of Meredith Hobart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP-, BC
Meredith Hobart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP-, BC
New York, NY 10003
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
(646) 491-8704 View (646) 491-8704
Photo of Katherine Pan, Psychiatrist, MD
Katherine Pan
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Many of my clients struggle with mood disorders or anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder. When psychiatric symptoms are too overwhelming and difficult to be addressed with psychotherapy alone, many clients may seek treatment with medications.
Many of my clients struggle with mood disorders or anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder. When psychiatric symptoms are too overwhelming and difficult to be addressed with psychotherapy alone, many clients may seek treatment with medications.
(844) 384-2779 View (844) 384-2779
Photo of Bethany Malugin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Bethany Malugin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I am a distinguished adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. With Orenda Psychiatry in New York and Brooklyn, NY, I offers comprehensive services to patients via virtual consultations. During sessions, I follow a patient-centered approach. Addressing anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic attacks, and hyperactive disorder, I strive to provide evidence-based treatments tailored to each of my patients' unique needs.
I am a distinguished adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. With Orenda Psychiatry in New York and Brooklyn, NY, I offers comprehensive services to patients via virtual consultations. During sessions, I follow a patient-centered approach. Addressing anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic attacks, and hyperactive disorder, I strive to provide evidence-based treatments tailored to each of my patients' unique needs.
(646) 760-7838 View (646) 760-7838

See more therapy options for 10003

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10003

100+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 10003 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
79% Medication Management
74% ADHD
73% Bipolar Disorder
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
69% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 10003 see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
32% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10003?

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.