Psychiatrists in 10016

Photo of Neil Krishan Aggarwal, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, MA
Neil Krishan Aggarwal
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, MA
New York, NY 10016
My broad education - medical school at Case, cultural psychiatry at Harvard, residency training at Yale - has helped me understand that people need help throughout life. I treat adults ages 18 and over with a wide range of problems, including anxiety and depression. I can work with you to make sense of tough transitions like grief, relationship issues, balancing family roles, divorce, not meeting expectations at work or school, and medical illnesses. As former advisor to Yale's University Chaplain, I know how people who are suffering search for hope. I teach and supervise psychotherapy at Columbia where I am a full professor.
My broad education - medical school at Case, cultural psychiatry at Harvard, residency training at Yale - has helped me understand that people need help throughout life. I treat adults ages 18 and over with a wide range of problems, including anxiety and depression. I can work with you to make sense of tough transitions like grief, relationship issues, balancing family roles, divorce, not meeting expectations at work or school, and medical illnesses. As former advisor to Yale's University Chaplain, I know how people who are suffering search for hope. I teach and supervise psychotherapy at Columbia where I am a full professor.
(917) 746-8687 View (917) 746-8687
Photo of Anna Lau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Anna Lau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ Care, Relationship Issues, Women's Issue Therapy as well as medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ Care, Relationship Issues, Women's Issue Therapy as well as medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(332) 378-5857 View (332) 378-5857
Photo of Meghan Kise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Meghan Kise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Meghan and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Depression, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Meghan and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Depression, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(929) 560-2358 View (929) 560-2358
Photo of Leila M. Vaezazizi, Psychiatrist, MD
Leila M. Vaezazizi
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Welcome! I am a psychiatrist with a specialty training in addiction, and my goal is to help you address the psychological problems, patterns and habits that are getting in the way of living a more fulfilling life. I also have expertise in mood and anxiety disorders, particularly treatment-resistant depression and bipolar disorder. During our first visit, we'll take time to explore your goals and history in a warm, judgment-free environment. While I highly value your privacy and maintain strict confidentiality, I can also coordinate with your current providers or loved ones with your permission and where it benefits your care.
Welcome! I am a psychiatrist with a specialty training in addiction, and my goal is to help you address the psychological problems, patterns and habits that are getting in the way of living a more fulfilling life. I also have expertise in mood and anxiety disorders, particularly treatment-resistant depression and bipolar disorder. During our first visit, we'll take time to explore your goals and history in a warm, judgment-free environment. While I highly value your privacy and maintain strict confidentiality, I can also coordinate with your current providers or loved ones with your permission and where it benefits your care.
(929) 590-9787 View (929) 590-9787
Photo of Olayemi Omotosho, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olayemi Omotosho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have specialized training as a psychiatric-mental health provider, coupled with extensive experience and a steadfast commitment to client-centered care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, I bring expertise in assessing and treating a diverse spectrum of disorders across all stages of life. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate and empathetic perspective, recognizing each individual's unique challenges and strengths.
I have specialized training as a psychiatric-mental health provider, coupled with extensive experience and a steadfast commitment to client-centered care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, I bring expertise in assessing and treating a diverse spectrum of disorders across all stages of life. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate and empathetic perspective, recognizing each individual's unique challenges and strengths.
(646) 687-1651 View (646) 687-1651
Photo of Sharee Simmons, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Sharee Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNPBC
New York, NY 10016
I’m a newly credentialed PMHNP with over 14 years of experience as an RN and LPN across diverse behavioral health settings, including psychiatric hospitals, correctional facilities, detox/rehab centers, and crisis units. I’ve worked with both adults and children facing complex mental health issues, including dual diagnoses and substance use disorders. My approach is rooted in empathy, evidence-based care, and the belief in the transformative power of a strong therapeutic connection.
I’m a newly credentialed PMHNP with over 14 years of experience as an RN and LPN across diverse behavioral health settings, including psychiatric hospitals, correctional facilities, detox/rehab centers, and crisis units. I’ve worked with both adults and children facing complex mental health issues, including dual diagnoses and substance use disorders. My approach is rooted in empathy, evidence-based care, and the belief in the transformative power of a strong therapeutic connection.
(929) 242-6651 View (929) 242-6651
Photo of Inaya Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD
Inaya Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I am a psychotherapist and board-certified psychiatrist whose practice integrates complementary and alternative medicine with conventional psychiatric treatment and psychotherapy. I work with adults - anyone struggling with their emotional experience, going through a life transition, or seeking a better understanding of themselves and/or their relationships. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD/trauma, and grief. I also specialize in working with cancer patients or those with chronic illness.
I am a psychotherapist and board-certified psychiatrist whose practice integrates complementary and alternative medicine with conventional psychiatric treatment and psychotherapy. I work with adults - anyone struggling with their emotional experience, going through a life transition, or seeking a better understanding of themselves and/or their relationships. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD/trauma, and grief. I also specialize in working with cancer patients or those with chronic illness.
(347) 658-3909 View (347) 658-3909
Photo of Janice Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Janice Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Hi i I'm Janice I have ben a nurse for 30 years, the last 10 years was spent in the ICU at a psychiatric hospital in West Palm Beach FL, this is where my interest was sparked to pursue a career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to care is patient-centered care that uses Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Multicultural, Person-Centered, Positive Psychology, and Reality Therapy. Patients I typically work with are individuals who suffer from anxiety, depression, dementia, and ADHD.
Hi i I'm Janice I have ben a nurse for 30 years, the last 10 years was spent in the ICU at a psychiatric hospital in West Palm Beach FL, this is where my interest was sparked to pursue a career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My approach to care is patient-centered care that uses Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Multicultural, Person-Centered, Positive Psychology, and Reality Therapy. Patients I typically work with are individuals who suffer from anxiety, depression, dementia, and ADHD.
(929) 528-5072 View (929) 528-5072
Photo of Andrew A. Chansky - Andrew A. Chansky, M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
Andrew A. Chansky, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Hello and welcome! As a dedicated psychiatrist based in Manhattan, New York, I prioritize building a mutual understanding of your mental health needs from the start. Our initial conversations might explore a formal diagnosis, essential for tailoring both medication and non-medication treatment strategies. My recommendations are grounded in the latest scientific research and best practices, ensuring that our approach is both comprehensive and personalized. This is particularly true when considering medication options. Through a detailed assessment, we'll develop a treatment plan uniquely suited to you.
Hello and welcome! As a dedicated psychiatrist based in Manhattan, New York, I prioritize building a mutual understanding of your mental health needs from the start. Our initial conversations might explore a formal diagnosis, essential for tailoring both medication and non-medication treatment strategies. My recommendations are grounded in the latest scientific research and best practices, ensuring that our approach is both comprehensive and personalized. This is particularly true when considering medication options. Through a detailed assessment, we'll develop a treatment plan uniquely suited to you.
(929) 581-8065 View (929) 581-8065
Photo of Molly Trevail, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Molly Trevail
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Molly and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of nursing experience. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. I earned my Master's Degree in Nursing in The Sage Colleges and work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Molly and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of nursing experience. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. I earned my Master's Degree in Nursing in The Sage Colleges and work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(518) 855-7976 View (518) 855-7976
Photo of Samoon Ahmad - Samoon Ahmad, MD; Integrative Center for Wellness, Psychiatrist, MD
Samoon Ahmad, MD; Integrative Center for Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Hippocrates stated: "it is more important to know what person the disease has than what disease the person has". Each individual presents unique issues that require tailored, collaborative treatment. A practicing physician for over thirty years, I have dedicated my life to helping individuals balance their mental and physical well-being. My practice and Integrative Center for Wellness focus on incorporating psychiatric treatments with nutritional therapies to calibrate balance between mind and body. With expertise in bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, stuttering and weight management, among others.
Hippocrates stated: "it is more important to know what person the disease has than what disease the person has". Each individual presents unique issues that require tailored, collaborative treatment. A practicing physician for over thirty years, I have dedicated my life to helping individuals balance their mental and physical well-being. My practice and Integrative Center for Wellness focus on incorporating psychiatric treatments with nutritional therapies to calibrate balance between mind and body. With expertise in bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, stuttering and weight management, among others.
(646) 233-0306 View (646) 233-0306
Photo of Anjali Patel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Anjali Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anjali and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Race & Cultural Identity, Stress Management, Relationship Issues, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Family Issues, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Gender, & Sexuality Topics. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anjali and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Race & Cultural Identity, Stress Management, Relationship Issues, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Family Issues, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Gender, & Sexuality Topics. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(929) 429-2640 View (929) 429-2640
Photo of Ashley Winn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Winn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
MANY INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED-Ashley Winn, MSN is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who specializes in psychopharmacology across the lifespan. Ms. Winn received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, and her advanced practice nursing degree from Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing-Hunter College. Ms. Winn strongly believes in an integrative and interdisciplinary approach to mental health and empowers her patients to be active participants in their health care. She is currently working at Modern Integrative Psychiatry, an adult psychopharmacology practice located in NYC
MANY INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED-Ashley Winn, MSN is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who specializes in psychopharmacology across the lifespan. Ms. Winn received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, and her advanced practice nursing degree from Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing-Hunter College. Ms. Winn strongly believes in an integrative and interdisciplinary approach to mental health and empowers her patients to be active participants in their health care. She is currently working at Modern Integrative Psychiatry, an adult psychopharmacology practice located in NYC
(929) 339-1880 View (929) 339-1880
Photo of Tamoya Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Tamoya Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Tamoya Thomas and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Pennsylvania, I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia & sleep issues, Bipolar, Life transitions, Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Trauma. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Tamoya Thomas and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Pennsylvania, I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia & sleep issues, Bipolar, Life transitions, Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Trauma. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(929) 822-5435 View (929) 822-5435
Photo of Jose Arvizu, Psychiatrist, MD
Jose Arvizu
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I am a Brown University-trained psychiatrist with expertise in psychopharmacology and different types of psychotherapy, I completed a fellowship in psychodynamic psychotherapy at Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute and am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Medical Center, and I have had prior affiliations with other Universities: Brown and Columbia. By maintaining this academic involvement, I am able to stay up to date in this rapidly evolving field.
I am a Brown University-trained psychiatrist with expertise in psychopharmacology and different types of psychotherapy, I completed a fellowship in psychodynamic psychotherapy at Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute and am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Medical Center, and I have had prior affiliations with other Universities: Brown and Columbia. By maintaining this academic involvement, I am able to stay up to date in this rapidly evolving field.
(646) 846-1657 View (646) 846-1657
Photo of Deepti Anbarasan, Psychiatrist, MD
Deepti Anbarasan
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
As a double-boarded neurologist and psychiatrist, my goal is to improve one's emotional well-being by combining my understanding of the mind-brain interface and each person's unique circumstances to create an individualized, integrative treatment plan. I have experience with treatment of intractable depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, functional neurological disorders (FND) including non-epileptic seizures (NES), somatic symptom disorder, chronic pain, and ADHD. I use a combination of both individual psychotherapy and medication management to serve the needs of my patients.
As a double-boarded neurologist and psychiatrist, my goal is to improve one's emotional well-being by combining my understanding of the mind-brain interface and each person's unique circumstances to create an individualized, integrative treatment plan. I have experience with treatment of intractable depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, functional neurological disorders (FND) including non-epileptic seizures (NES), somatic symptom disorder, chronic pain, and ADHD. I use a combination of both individual psychotherapy and medication management to serve the needs of my patients.
(347) 801-7490 View (347) 801-7490
Photo of Courtney Paton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Courtney Paton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Courtney and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with a Masters of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from Sage College. My specializations includes Medication Management, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, OCD, schizophrenia and Eating Disorders. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Courtney and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with a Masters of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from Sage College. My specializations includes Medication Management, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, OCD, schizophrenia and Eating Disorders. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(518) 412-7085 View (518) 412-7085
Photo of Michael J Mahelsky, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael J Mahelsky
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10016
Most of the patients who have worked with me over the years have a variety of different mental health issues. These include depression, anxiety and substance dependence. However, in psychiatry, there are many other mental health matters which need to be diagnosed and carefully treated. I feel very capable and prepared given my years of experience to work with patients who have these conditions as well.
Most of the patients who have worked with me over the years have a variety of different mental health issues. These include depression, anxiety and substance dependence. However, in psychiatry, there are many other mental health matters which need to be diagnosed and carefully treated. I feel very capable and prepared given my years of experience to work with patients who have these conditions as well.
(646) 502-8481 View (646) 502-8481
Photo of Robert Weston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Robert Weston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
New York, NY 10016
If you are an existing client please click the "My website" button to schedule an appointment. If you are a new client and would like to work together, please call or email to schedule. I am a dedicated and caring board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my BS and MSN from Columbia University and have extensive experience working with clients in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room settings. I provide comprehensive care using an integrated approach of both brief psychotherapy and judicious use of medication. During sessions, one can expect thorough, empathetic, and patient-centered care.
If you are an existing client please click the "My website" button to schedule an appointment. If you are a new client and would like to work together, please call or email to schedule. I am a dedicated and caring board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my BS and MSN from Columbia University and have extensive experience working with clients in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room settings. I provide comprehensive care using an integrated approach of both brief psychotherapy and judicious use of medication. During sessions, one can expect thorough, empathetic, and patient-centered care.
(929) 298-9787 View (929) 298-9787
Photo of Nancy Pletcher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CNOR
Nancy Pletcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CNOR
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Nancy and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety and medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Nancy and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety and medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(347) 789-7509 View (347) 789-7509

See more therapy options for 10016

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10016

200+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 10016 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
96% Depression
77% ADHD
73% Bipolar Disorder
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 10016 see their clients

51% Online Only
49% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10016?

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.