Psychiatrists in 10017

I am a board-certified psychiatrist practicing virtually and in person in Midtown Manhattan. Licensed in NY, NJ, CT, and FL, I treat adults experiencing issues with mood, attention, stress, and/or problem-solving. I utilize a variety of strategies to help my patients feel better and meet their personal goals including DBT, CBT, ACT, Existential, and Supportive therapy. I am also board certified in Neurology, which gives me a unique perspective on the medications used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and panic. I am also a certified meditation instructor.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist practicing virtually and in person in Midtown Manhattan. Licensed in NY, NJ, CT, and FL, I treat adults experiencing issues with mood, attention, stress, and/or problem-solving. I utilize a variety of strategies to help my patients feel better and meet their personal goals including DBT, CBT, ACT, Existential, and Supportive therapy. I am also board certified in Neurology, which gives me a unique perspective on the medications used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and panic. I am also a certified meditation instructor.

Arnab Datta, MD, is a psychiatrist who also provides psychotherapy, couples therapy, meditation, and EMDR. It’s important to listen deeply to your conscious and unconscious mind—so we can differentiate your false self from your true self. Here you can have psychoanalytic interpretations, and have it not take 6 months. Dr. Datta is a controlled substance specialist who treats Adderall, Xanax, and Suboxone patients and also uncovers the psychological reasons why you’re on these meds. Dr. Datta completed 2 fellowships in addiction psychiatry. He treats drug addictions as well as behavioral addictions like gambling, the internet, etc
Arnab Datta, MD, is a psychiatrist who also provides psychotherapy, couples therapy, meditation, and EMDR. It’s important to listen deeply to your conscious and unconscious mind—so we can differentiate your false self from your true self. Here you can have psychoanalytic interpretations, and have it not take 6 months. Dr. Datta is a controlled substance specialist who treats Adderall, Xanax, and Suboxone patients and also uncovers the psychological reasons why you’re on these meds. Dr. Datta completed 2 fellowships in addiction psychiatry. He treats drug addictions as well as behavioral addictions like gambling, the internet, etc

I am dedicated to helping clients manage anxiety, depression, mood, C-PTSD, ADHD, and neurocognitive disorders.
I am dedicated to helping clients manage anxiety, depression, mood, C-PTSD, ADHD, and neurocognitive disorders.

Daniela T Rizzo MD PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
Waitlist for new clients
As a specialist in adult ADHD. I work closely with my clients to help them build self-awareness, enhance , and strengthen interpersonal relationships Together, we focus on boosting self-confidence, improving assertiveness, developing and maintaining healthy habits, managing stress, preventing burnout, and achieving peak performance and personal fulfillment. The journey begins with a single step- booking an appointment. I Do not accept insurance.
As a specialist in adult ADHD. I work closely with my clients to help them build self-awareness, enhance , and strengthen interpersonal relationships Together, we focus on boosting self-confidence, improving assertiveness, developing and maintaining healthy habits, managing stress, preventing burnout, and achieving peak performance and personal fulfillment. The journey begins with a single step- booking an appointment. I Do not accept insurance.

Christina Hollingsworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Hi, I'm Christina Hollingsworth and I'm a board certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) working in New York City. From my training at Columbia University to my years of practice in both outpatient and inpatient settings, I have worked with many patients from all walks of life. I primarily offer medication management, but strongly believe in the importance of supportive therapy and the behavioral changes that a person can engage in to live a happy and healthy life. It's important for me to collaborate with all of my patients to create a comprehensive treatment plan that works for your individual needs and unique goals.
Hi, I'm Christina Hollingsworth and I'm a board certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) working in New York City. From my training at Columbia University to my years of practice in both outpatient and inpatient settings, I have worked with many patients from all walks of life. I primarily offer medication management, but strongly believe in the importance of supportive therapy and the behavioral changes that a person can engage in to live a happy and healthy life. It's important for me to collaborate with all of my patients to create a comprehensive treatment plan that works for your individual needs and unique goals.

Mary Ellen Mitchell Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
I am a Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry trained at Columbia University with a private practice in Midtown Manhattan. Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals with a variety of personal challenges. My holistic approach allows me to appreciate the complexity of each person in their unique experience without judgement. I listen attentively and empathically and work collaboratively with each person to develop a therapeutic relationship, fostering trust, hope, self-esteem, and a safe space for curiosity, insight, and change.
I am a Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry trained at Columbia University with a private practice in Midtown Manhattan. Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals with a variety of personal challenges. My holistic approach allows me to appreciate the complexity of each person in their unique experience without judgement. I listen attentively and empathically and work collaboratively with each person to develop a therapeutic relationship, fostering trust, hope, self-esteem, and a safe space for curiosity, insight, and change.

Salman Abouzied is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in therapy and psycho-pharmacological treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Substance Recovery, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic/Thought Disorders, Childhood ADHD/ADD, and management of psychiatric symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder. A graduate of New York University, Mr. Abouzied has over 15 years of practice working in the field of mental health."
Salman Abouzied is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in therapy and psycho-pharmacological treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Substance Recovery, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic/Thought Disorders, Childhood ADHD/ADD, and management of psychiatric symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder. A graduate of New York University, Mr. Abouzied has over 15 years of practice working in the field of mental health."

Mudassar Iqbal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Not accepting new clients
Life is challenging, and at times it can bring unusual emotional suffering that needs exploration and understanding. To work through these roadblocks, we need someone non-judgmental who can listen with patience, empathy and undivided presence. Most of our traumas happen in relationships and the healing has to take place in this relational space, in an environment of emotional safety and trust. It is courageous to recognize that our vision of ourselves can have blind spot. We need mirroring from a thoughtful compassionate person who helps us rediscover freedom and authenticity in our relationships, work, and creative endeavors.
Life is challenging, and at times it can bring unusual emotional suffering that needs exploration and understanding. To work through these roadblocks, we need someone non-judgmental who can listen with patience, empathy and undivided presence. Most of our traumas happen in relationships and the healing has to take place in this relational space, in an environment of emotional safety and trust. It is courageous to recognize that our vision of ourselves can have blind spot. We need mirroring from a thoughtful compassionate person who helps us rediscover freedom and authenticity in our relationships, work, and creative endeavors.

Empire State Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
Joseph Spitalieri, PMHNP: Immediate openings for New Patients! I accept all major insurances. I provide medication management and Spravato treatment for treatment resistant depression. My philosophy centers on the idea that mental health is an integral part of overall wellness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. By building strong, trusting relationships, I empower individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-discovery and resilience.
Joseph Spitalieri, PMHNP: Immediate openings for New Patients! I accept all major insurances. I provide medication management and Spravato treatment for treatment resistant depression. My philosophy centers on the idea that mental health is an integral part of overall wellness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. By building strong, trusting relationships, I empower individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-discovery and resilience.

Connie Yip
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP), I do talk therapy and prescribe psychiatric medication for individuals with a variety of therapeutic needs. As a certified advanced schema therapist, I integrate CBT, psychodynamic, and gestalt therapy. My experience includes working with adolescents, families, and adults in hospital, residential, and school settings. Whether you are going through a difficult transition in your life or addressing a longstanding issue, I can help you meet your individual goals with pragmatic tools. I focus on the strengths of each individual, providing a safe space to discuss your personal narrative.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP), I do talk therapy and prescribe psychiatric medication for individuals with a variety of therapeutic needs. As a certified advanced schema therapist, I integrate CBT, psychodynamic, and gestalt therapy. My experience includes working with adolescents, families, and adults in hospital, residential, and school settings. Whether you are going through a difficult transition in your life or addressing a longstanding issue, I can help you meet your individual goals with pragmatic tools. I focus on the strengths of each individual, providing a safe space to discuss your personal narrative.

Empire State Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
Immediate Availability for in-person and telepsychiatry, In-network medication management and Spravato treatment. Amanda Botros, NP: I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. My work with oncology patients has provided me with a deep understanding of the profound connection between mind and body. My clinical expertise encompasses a wide range of issues, including addiction, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD.
Immediate Availability for in-person and telepsychiatry, In-network medication management and Spravato treatment. Amanda Botros, NP: I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. My work with oncology patients has provided me with a deep understanding of the profound connection between mind and body. My clinical expertise encompasses a wide range of issues, including addiction, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

As a bilingual mental health nurse practitioner, I prioritize psychiatric evaluation and medication management, collaborating with patients to achieve balance. Providing personalized care, I accommodate diverse needs with flexible hours. Through medication management and collaborative decision-making, I empower clients to reclaim self-worth.
As a bilingual mental health nurse practitioner, I prioritize psychiatric evaluation and medication management, collaborating with patients to achieve balance. Providing personalized care, I accommodate diverse needs with flexible hours. Through medication management and collaborative decision-making, I empower clients to reclaim self-worth.

I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 2 decades of experience working in diverse psychiatric settings with diverse populations. I specialize in ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and relationship issues. I believe in assessing the whole person. My journey as a psychiatric practitioner has equipped me with a deep understanding of how, in many cases, mental health conditions are related to environmental, physical or spiritual issues. I focus on effective, evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of conditions.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 2 decades of experience working in diverse psychiatric settings with diverse populations. I specialize in ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and relationship issues. I believe in assessing the whole person. My journey as a psychiatric practitioner has equipped me with a deep understanding of how, in many cases, mental health conditions are related to environmental, physical or spiritual issues. I focus on effective, evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of conditions.

Hello! I am a Mount Sinai affiliated psychiatrist specializing in ketamine assisted psychotherapy / psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. We work with multiple New York-based compounding pharmacies to create an effective, non-invasive under-the-tongue ketamine lozenges for use during 1.5 hour therapeutic sessions. Ketamine has been shown to accelerate progress in depression, trauma, addiction, anxiety, understanding sexual/gender orientation, and for those who feel "stuck." Clients can often seek partial out-of-network reimbursement. We serve all US states remotely. Include "ketamine" in your message if interested.
Hello! I am a Mount Sinai affiliated psychiatrist specializing in ketamine assisted psychotherapy / psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. We work with multiple New York-based compounding pharmacies to create an effective, non-invasive under-the-tongue ketamine lozenges for use during 1.5 hour therapeutic sessions. Ketamine has been shown to accelerate progress in depression, trauma, addiction, anxiety, understanding sexual/gender orientation, and for those who feel "stuck." Clients can often seek partial out-of-network reimbursement. We serve all US states remotely. Include "ketamine" in your message if interested.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist with advanced training in psychotherapy providing a wide range of psychiatric services, including consultation, psychotherapy, and medication management when appropriate.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with advanced training in psychotherapy providing a wide range of psychiatric services, including consultation, psychotherapy, and medication management when appropriate.

Dr. Gundu Reddy is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU psychoanalytic institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine she pursued additional research in HIV psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU psychoanalytic institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.

Nothing’s been the same since your cancer diagnosis. First was shock and disbelief. Is this really happening to me? Then came the anger, quickly followed by anxiety and depression. You had a plan for your life, but that’s all been turned upside down. The future has never felt more uncertain. You want to sit down and take some time to process this news. But you’ve become buried under a host of new responsibilities. Now, you spend every day on a barrage of doctor’s appointments, diagnostic tests, and critical treatment decisions. Friends and family offer help, but you’re scared of being a burden to them. It all feels so overwhelming.
Nothing’s been the same since your cancer diagnosis. First was shock and disbelief. Is this really happening to me? Then came the anger, quickly followed by anxiety and depression. You had a plan for your life, but that’s all been turned upside down. The future has never felt more uncertain. You want to sit down and take some time to process this news. But you’ve become buried under a host of new responsibilities. Now, you spend every day on a barrage of doctor’s appointments, diagnostic tests, and critical treatment decisions. Friends and family offer help, but you’re scared of being a burden to them. It all feels so overwhelming.

Are you a high net worth individual who seems to have it all but still struggles with depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, and relationship difficulties? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated because you are not living up to someone else’s standards? Are you just getting through the day, sifting through endless emails, texting, and doom-scrolling on social media? Do you wonder if this life is as good as it gets? Imagine moving past your past, finding new joy in living, facing your fears, overcoming difficulties, and having fulfilling relationships.
Are you a high net worth individual who seems to have it all but still struggles with depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, and relationship difficulties? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated because you are not living up to someone else’s standards? Are you just getting through the day, sifting through endless emails, texting, and doom-scrolling on social media? Do you wonder if this life is as good as it gets? Imagine moving past your past, finding new joy in living, facing your fears, overcoming difficulties, and having fulfilling relationships.

I am a board-certified, Columbia University trained, psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) with 15 years of experience. I specialize in treating adults (18y/o+) with a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, and insomnia. People come to me for medication, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
I am a board-certified, Columbia University trained, psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) with 15 years of experience. I specialize in treating adults (18y/o+) with a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, and insomnia. People come to me for medication, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.

I am committed to helping people work towards relief from emotional difficulties and towards reaching their best potentials. To do so, I focus on learning about you as an individual rather than focusing on one or two symptoms in isolation. In every encounter, my goal is to understand where you are coming from by listening carefully and without assigning "good" or "bad" labels. When that understanding is gained, I find the most appropriate and helpful tools to help, whether it's therapy, medications or both.
I am committed to helping people work towards relief from emotional difficulties and towards reaching their best potentials. To do so, I focus on learning about you as an individual rather than focusing on one or two symptoms in isolation. In every encounter, my goal is to understand where you are coming from by listening carefully and without assigning "good" or "bad" labels. When that understanding is gained, I find the most appropriate and helpful tools to help, whether it's therapy, medications or both.
See more therapy options for 10017
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 10017
80+
Average cost per session
$350
Psychiatrists in 10017 who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
73% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
57% | Sleep or Insomnia |
55% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
57% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 10017 see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
34% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 10017?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.