Psychiatrists in 10018

Photo of Miranda Maldonado, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Miranda Maldonado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Miranda Carina Maldonado is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Miranda has experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds and believes the key to wellness is a balance of the mind, body, and soul. Clients go to Miranda looking for a provider that believes in fostering a therapeutic relationship built on mutual trust and collaboration where they can expect to be heard, validated, supported, and respected. As a provider, she strives to support her clients so they can achieve healthy, fulfilling lives with meaning and purpose.
Miranda Carina Maldonado is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Miranda has experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds and believes the key to wellness is a balance of the mind, body, and soul. Clients go to Miranda looking for a provider that believes in fostering a therapeutic relationship built on mutual trust and collaboration where they can expect to be heard, validated, supported, and respected. As a provider, she strives to support her clients so they can achieve healthy, fulfilling lives with meaning and purpose.
(646) 970-9974 View (646) 970-9974
Photo of Courtney H. Allen, Psychiatrist, MD
Courtney H. Allen
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether I am providing psychotherapy or medication management, the therapeutic relationship I aim to build is one that is warm, collaborative, and rooted in mutual respect. I take the time to listen to your story and concerns, and I use my clinical expertise to offer tailored recommendations that align with your unique needs and goals. An initial evaluation doesn’t automatically lead to a prescription; instead, I work with you to explore the safest and most effective options for your care.
Whether I am providing psychotherapy or medication management, the therapeutic relationship I aim to build is one that is warm, collaborative, and rooted in mutual respect. I take the time to listen to your story and concerns, and I use my clinical expertise to offer tailored recommendations that align with your unique needs and goals. An initial evaluation doesn’t automatically lead to a prescription; instead, I work with you to explore the safest and most effective options for your care.
(929) 305-1012 View (929) 305-1012
Photo of Gerard Scardino - Psych Matters, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Psych Matters, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10018
Dr. Scardino is board certified in General Psychiatry. He has 39 years of experience treating the full spectrum of psychiatric disorders, using a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach to expedite patients’ recovery. He has received multiple awards and recognitions in Harris County for his service excellence. Dr. Scardino began practicing psychiatric medicine in 1986, and has been chosen as the head of interdisciplinary treatment teams numerous times. He has served as a medical director at the MHMRA and Mid City Community Service Center.
Dr. Scardino is board certified in General Psychiatry. He has 39 years of experience treating the full spectrum of psychiatric disorders, using a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach to expedite patients’ recovery. He has received multiple awards and recognitions in Harris County for his service excellence. Dr. Scardino began practicing psychiatric medicine in 1986, and has been chosen as the head of interdisciplinary treatment teams numerous times. He has served as a medical director at the MHMRA and Mid City Community Service Center.
(914) 219-6401 View (914) 219-6401
Photo of Dr. Javier Aget-Torres, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Javier Aget-Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Seeking treatment is a difficult decision to make and for that I am here to congratulate you on the courage and strength it took to embark on your journey of healing and wellness. Regardless of the difficulties you are experiencing, together we will engage in a mutual collaboration to explore your treatment goals and build insight and awareness into your inner self. At times, the mind can become our greatest enemy with thoughts that can be hard to share with others. However, do not fear, as my role is to create a safe and trusting therapeutic space, where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are non-judgmentally explored.
Seeking treatment is a difficult decision to make and for that I am here to congratulate you on the courage and strength it took to embark on your journey of healing and wellness. Regardless of the difficulties you are experiencing, together we will engage in a mutual collaboration to explore your treatment goals and build insight and awareness into your inner self. At times, the mind can become our greatest enemy with thoughts that can be hard to share with others. However, do not fear, as my role is to create a safe and trusting therapeutic space, where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are non-judgmentally explored.
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Photo of Patrick Hou, Psychiatrist, MD
Patrick Hou
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Clients working with Dr. Hou can expect a thoughtful, detailed, and caring approach. He prioritizes active listening and thoughtful consideration, aiming to build trust and develop a strong client-provider relationship. Communication is prompt, and Dr. Hou believes in the importance of trust in the therapeutic process. His background allows him to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds, considering both psychiatric and medical aspects of their well-being.
Clients working with Dr. Hou can expect a thoughtful, detailed, and caring approach. He prioritizes active listening and thoughtful consideration, aiming to build trust and develop a strong client-provider relationship. Communication is prompt, and Dr. Hou believes in the importance of trust in the therapeutic process. His background allows him to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds, considering both psychiatric and medical aspects of their well-being.
(212) 369-6757 View (212) 369-6757
Photo of Yana Bekker, Psychiatrist, DO
Yana Bekker
Psychiatrist, DO
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018
Dr Bekker is currently accepting new patients and is an in-network Psychiatrist with Aetna, Cigna, Compsych, , Horizon BCBS of NJ, Lyra, Oscar, Oxford and United Healthcare (Commercial plans only). As a board-certified psychiatrist who focuses on a holistic approach to mental health, Dr. Bekker approaches psychiatry by focusing on your overall well-being, which includes addressing your physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
Dr Bekker is currently accepting new patients and is an in-network Psychiatrist with Aetna, Cigna, Compsych, , Horizon BCBS of NJ, Lyra, Oscar, Oxford and United Healthcare (Commercial plans only). As a board-certified psychiatrist who focuses on a holistic approach to mental health, Dr. Bekker approaches psychiatry by focusing on your overall well-being, which includes addressing your physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
(718) 869-4700 View (718) 869-4700
Photo of Thomas Watrucki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Thomas Watrucki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over eight years of psychiatric experience. I offer a holistic approach to mental health which combines conventional and complementary therapies to maximize your well-being. These include medication management, talk therapy, and other complementary therapies. I am open to see both children and adults.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over eight years of psychiatric experience. I offer a holistic approach to mental health which combines conventional and complementary therapies to maximize your well-being. These include medication management, talk therapy, and other complementary therapies. I am open to see both children and adults.
(929) 209-4821 View (929) 209-4821
Photo of Dr. Luiza Triolo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Luiza Triolo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I am a dedicated health professional committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and physical health through a comprehensive, evidence-based approach. My expertise includes treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Obesity, metabolic health, and addictions. I believe in a holistic treatment approach that integrates mental health care with metabolic lifestyle management. Over 200 Five-Star Reviews! Visit our site to learn more.
I am a dedicated health professional committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and physical health through a comprehensive, evidence-based approach. My expertise includes treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Obesity, metabolic health, and addictions. I believe in a holistic treatment approach that integrates mental health care with metabolic lifestyle management. Over 200 Five-Star Reviews! Visit our site to learn more.
(646) 392-7973 View (646) 392-7973
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10018
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
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Photo of Dr. Tolulope O Kolawole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN
Dr. Tolulope O Kolawole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance abuse who feels overwhelmed and stuck. They may be seeking clarity, emotional regulation, or coping skills to manage life’s challenges. Their goal is to regain control, improve their mental health, and find long-lasting solutions. They want a personalized approach that considers their unique experiences, a therapist who listens, and a clear, evidence-based plan that integrates holistic practices for complete healing.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance abuse who feels overwhelmed and stuck. They may be seeking clarity, emotional regulation, or coping skills to manage life’s challenges. Their goal is to regain control, improve their mental health, and find long-lasting solutions. They want a personalized approach that considers their unique experiences, a therapist who listens, and a clear, evidence-based plan that integrates holistic practices for complete healing.
(713) 485-4705 View (713) 485-4705
Photo of Lanre Dokun - Healthy Minds NYC | Lanre Dokun, MD, Psychiatrist
Healthy Minds NYC | Lanre Dokun, MD
Psychiatrist
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018
As a New York professional, you can’t afford to let anxiety, ADHD, or depression hold you back. You live and work in a high-pressure, high-stakes environment and need a therapist equipped to provide care that meets your unique needs. As an Ivy-league educated physician, trained at Brown University and The Mount Sinai School of Medicine and raised in NYC, I am here to help. I understand your context and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy and/or medication management to treat your mental health. I can help you transform your career and personal life through my warm, relatable, results-oriented style.
As a New York professional, you can’t afford to let anxiety, ADHD, or depression hold you back. You live and work in a high-pressure, high-stakes environment and need a therapist equipped to provide care that meets your unique needs. As an Ivy-league educated physician, trained at Brown University and The Mount Sinai School of Medicine and raised in NYC, I am here to help. I understand your context and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy and/or medication management to treat your mental health. I can help you transform your career and personal life through my warm, relatable, results-oriented style.
(929) 223-4484 View (929) 223-4484
Photo of Jaclyn L Chen, Psychiatrist, MD
Jaclyn L Chen
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10018
Clients can expect to leave sessions feeling seen, respected, and better understood—not just as individuals with symptoms, but as whole people shaped by their relationships, environments, identities, and histories. I aim to create a calm, curious, and nonjudgmental space where insights can emerge naturally, and where we can make sense of distress in the context of each person’s unique biopsychosocial story. My goals are often to enhance self-awareness, improve emotional regulation, strengthen relationships, and increase a sense of agency. Clients can expect to gain both clarity and tools—so they’re not just surviving but thriving.
Clients can expect to leave sessions feeling seen, respected, and better understood—not just as individuals with symptoms, but as whole people shaped by their relationships, environments, identities, and histories. I aim to create a calm, curious, and nonjudgmental space where insights can emerge naturally, and where we can make sense of distress in the context of each person’s unique biopsychosocial story. My goals are often to enhance self-awareness, improve emotional regulation, strengthen relationships, and increase a sense of agency. Clients can expect to gain both clarity and tools—so they’re not just surviving but thriving.
(646) 906-8710 View (646) 906-8710
Photo of Grace Coviello, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Grace Coviello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at New Path Psychiatry, I specialize in medication management, ADHD, and anxiety-related conditions. Whether you're just beginning to explore medication options or continuing your mental health journey, I’m glad you’re here to receive informed, confidential, and collaborative care. My approach goes beyond labels and is centered on understanding the deeper context of your experience, to support true healing and growth. Let's work towards a mutual understanding of the unique issues and stressors that go past what is revealed by a diagnosis.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at New Path Psychiatry, I specialize in medication management, ADHD, and anxiety-related conditions. Whether you're just beginning to explore medication options or continuing your mental health journey, I’m glad you’re here to receive informed, confidential, and collaborative care. My approach goes beyond labels and is centered on understanding the deeper context of your experience, to support true healing and growth. Let's work towards a mutual understanding of the unique issues and stressors that go past what is revealed by a diagnosis.
(929) 470-2730 View (929) 470-2730
Photo of Agam Dhawan, Psychiatrist, MD
Agam Dhawan
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you have motivation problems, avoid friends and family, feel sad or down most days, feel guilty for things outside your control? Do you stress for no reason, have panic attacks, get irritated easily, or overthink things? Do you have issues focusing, get distracted with work, school, or homework, interrupt people accidentally, have problems sitting still, do things without thinking, or people call you lazy?
Do you have motivation problems, avoid friends and family, feel sad or down most days, feel guilty for things outside your control? Do you stress for no reason, have panic attacks, get irritated easily, or overthink things? Do you have issues focusing, get distracted with work, school, or homework, interrupt people accidentally, have problems sitting still, do things without thinking, or people call you lazy?
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Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
New York, NY 10018
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(929) 560-2386 View (929) 560-2386
Photo of Dr. Jaclyn L Chen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jaclyn L Chen
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10018
Clients can expect to leave sessions feeling seen, respected, & better understood—not just as individuals with symptoms, but as whole people shaped by their relationships, environments, identities, & histories. I aim to create a calm, curious, and nonjudgmental space where insights can emerge naturally & where we can make sense of distress in the context of each person’s unique biopsychosocial story. My goals are to enhance self-awareness, improve emotional regulation, & increase a sense of agency. Ultimately, clients can expect to gain both clarity and tools—so they’re not just surviving, but moving toward deeper healing & growth.
Clients can expect to leave sessions feeling seen, respected, & better understood—not just as individuals with symptoms, but as whole people shaped by their relationships, environments, identities, & histories. I aim to create a calm, curious, and nonjudgmental space where insights can emerge naturally & where we can make sense of distress in the context of each person’s unique biopsychosocial story. My goals are to enhance self-awareness, improve emotional regulation, & increase a sense of agency. Ultimately, clients can expect to gain both clarity and tools—so they’re not just surviving, but moving toward deeper healing & growth.
(929) 284-7703 View (929) 284-7703
Photo of Justine Bello, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Justine Bello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I treat ages 18 to 55 living with a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I specialize in personalized medication management and brief psychotherapy tailored to each individual's distinctive needs.
I treat ages 18 to 55 living with a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I specialize in personalized medication management and brief psychotherapy tailored to each individual's distinctive needs.
(332) 334-8138 View (332) 334-8138
Photo of Sara Timtim, Psychiatrist, MD
Sara Timtim
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Direct online booking. Since my undergrad years at Stanford, psychiatry has been my passion. I specialize in helping women gain agency in their romantic relationships by removing mental health obstacles. Treating conditions like PTSD, various kinds of mood instability, and anxiety, as well as exploring root issues (eg childhood family experiences) empowers people to make sound, thoughtful decisions in choosing partners and nurturing fulfilling relationships. I take a psychodynamic + DBT skills approach alongside evidence-based medicine, grounded in the scientific literature.
Direct online booking. Since my undergrad years at Stanford, psychiatry has been my passion. I specialize in helping women gain agency in their romantic relationships by removing mental health obstacles. Treating conditions like PTSD, various kinds of mood instability, and anxiety, as well as exploring root issues (eg childhood family experiences) empowers people to make sound, thoughtful decisions in choosing partners and nurturing fulfilling relationships. I take a psychodynamic + DBT skills approach alongside evidence-based medicine, grounded in the scientific literature.
(646) 917-7251 View (646) 917-7251
Photo of Joseph M. Otonichar, Psychiatrist, DO
Joseph M. Otonichar
Psychiatrist, DO
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As a physician and therapist, I believe that mental health is characterized by flexibility and fluidity of thought and intention. I take a balanced and gentle approach in my treatment style and am careful to gauge and work with each of my patients wherever each may be. I enjoy helping people work to live more authentically and vibrantly. I try to help my patients unlock underlying patterns that may perpetuate a sense of stagnation. While I readily offer the use of medications if and when they may be helpful, I have often found talk therapy to achieve enduring change.
As a physician and therapist, I believe that mental health is characterized by flexibility and fluidity of thought and intention. I take a balanced and gentle approach in my treatment style and am careful to gauge and work with each of my patients wherever each may be. I enjoy helping people work to live more authentically and vibrantly. I try to help my patients unlock underlying patterns that may perpetuate a sense of stagnation. While I readily offer the use of medications if and when they may be helpful, I have often found talk therapy to achieve enduring change.
(646) 586-3544 View (646) 586-3544
Photo of Cara Koleba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cara Koleba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I treat clients ages 18 to 64 and those experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress, and mood disorders. I provide personalized treatment plans, particularly focusing on holistic care and acknowledging the nonlinear nature of healing processes. By actively listening, I will tailor treatment plans that combine traditional and alternative therapy techniques, aiming to enhance your overall health. I primarily use medication management and talk therapy in my treatment. Look forward to being involved in treatment plans and have confidence in my ability to find the best therapeutic regimen.
I treat clients ages 18 to 64 and those experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress, and mood disorders. I provide personalized treatment plans, particularly focusing on holistic care and acknowledging the nonlinear nature of healing processes. By actively listening, I will tailor treatment plans that combine traditional and alternative therapy techniques, aiming to enhance your overall health. I primarily use medication management and talk therapy in my treatment. Look forward to being involved in treatment plans and have confidence in my ability to find the best therapeutic regimen.
(929) 460-9669 View (929) 460-9669

See more therapy options for 10018

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10018

80+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 10018 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
72% ADHD
67% Medication Management
61% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
55% Trauma and PTSD
54% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 10018 see their clients

59% Online Only
41% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10018?

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.