Psychiatrists in 10028

Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
(718) 550-7860 View (718) 550-7860
Photo of Patricia Lindahl, Psychiatrist, MD
Patricia Lindahl
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
I am an adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist working primarily through individual psychotherapy. I see most of my patients on at least a weekly basis. Although I do sometimes prescribe medication, the management of medication is not my primary focus. I believe in psychotherapy because it is more effective than medication for most concerns, and because it can be a powerful, relationship-based experience that works to close past wounds. As a therapist, I try to always be open and compassionate as I listen and intervene.
I am an adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist working primarily through individual psychotherapy. I see most of my patients on at least a weekly basis. Although I do sometimes prescribe medication, the management of medication is not my primary focus. I believe in psychotherapy because it is more effective than medication for most concerns, and because it can be a powerful, relationship-based experience that works to close past wounds. As a therapist, I try to always be open and compassionate as I listen and intervene.
(646) 846-0106 View (646) 846-0106
Photo of Ajay Nair, Psychiatrist, MD
Ajay Nair
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10028
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist treating patients with a host of concerns including with self confidence, achievement, anxiety and stress, mood, and much more. I have a specialized focus in sports psychology and psychiatry and am dedicated to helping high-performing individuals reach their full potential.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist treating patients with a host of concerns including with self confidence, achievement, anxiety and stress, mood, and much more. I have a specialized focus in sports psychology and psychiatry and am dedicated to helping high-performing individuals reach their full potential.
(646) 760-8924 View (646) 760-8924
Photo of Yewande Mikoku, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Yewande Mikoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Yewande Mikoku is a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Yewande empowers her patients by working in collaboration with them to choose the best treatment for their mental health needs. As a holistically-minded provider, she uses active listening and shared decision making in helping patients find right treatment. Yewande encourages patients to live up to their full potential. Yewande provides practicals that are easy to implement to promote optimal health. Yewande's approach begins with commitment to individuals needs and resources that support evidence based practices. Yewande works with patients 18-64.
Yewande Mikoku is a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Yewande empowers her patients by working in collaboration with them to choose the best treatment for their mental health needs. As a holistically-minded provider, she uses active listening and shared decision making in helping patients find right treatment. Yewande encourages patients to live up to their full potential. Yewande provides practicals that are easy to implement to promote optimal health. Yewande's approach begins with commitment to individuals needs and resources that support evidence based practices. Yewande works with patients 18-64.
(929) 335-9646 View (929) 335-9646
Photo of Evans Rochaste, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Evans Rochaste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
(646) 692-0326 View (646) 692-0326
Photo of Emily Sidoti, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Emily Sidoti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
(646) 687-2194 View (646) 687-2194
Photo of Jena M Simon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Jena M Simon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Clients I work with often seek medication management and therapy to treat symptoms, understand themselves better, and develop strategies for lasting change. They encounter challenges such as anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, and may deal with self-doubt or feel overwhelmed by stress. I provide my clients with a safe space to express themselves and offer practical tools to manage emotions. I accept several insurance plans and am currently welcoming new clients in Maryland, New York, and Washington State.
Clients I work with often seek medication management and therapy to treat symptoms, understand themselves better, and develop strategies for lasting change. They encounter challenges such as anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, and may deal with self-doubt or feel overwhelmed by stress. I provide my clients with a safe space to express themselves and offer practical tools to manage emotions. I accept several insurance plans and am currently welcoming new clients in Maryland, New York, and Washington State.
(914) 977-0424 View (914) 977-0424
Photo of Irina Chikvashvili, Psychiatrist, DO
Irina Chikvashvili
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Medication Management Physician treating ADHD, insomnia, anxiety & mild depression, young adult, women's health. Dr. Chikvashvili is a double board certified child & adult psychiatrist in New York City. She is currently an attending physician at Cohen Children’s Medical Center, specializing in Emergency Psychiatry. Expertise in treating ADHD (child & adult), depression, anxiety, OCD, insomnia. For scheduling via in network insurance, please visit: headway.co/providers/irina-chikvashvili
Medication Management Physician treating ADHD, insomnia, anxiety & mild depression, young adult, women's health. Dr. Chikvashvili is a double board certified child & adult psychiatrist in New York City. She is currently an attending physician at Cohen Children’s Medical Center, specializing in Emergency Psychiatry. Expertise in treating ADHD (child & adult), depression, anxiety, OCD, insomnia. For scheduling via in network insurance, please visit: headway.co/providers/irina-chikvashvili
(917) 924-3423 View (917) 924-3423
Photo of Doreen Zarfati, Psychiatrist, MD
Doreen Zarfati
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10028
I am double board certified psychiatrist specializing in numerous psychiatric disorders as well as addiction disorders. I completed training at St. Lukes Roosevelt Hospital, Columbia and a specialty in Addiction at Beth Israel Hospital. For many years I was the Associate Director of the Psychiatric Emergency Department at Kings County Hospital and later became the Director of Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. I have lectured about the many forms of addiction at conferences and participated in Grand Rounds for hospitals, discussing addiction and eating disorders.I am on the medical faculty at SUNY Downstate Hospital providing guidance, teaching and mentoring for psychiatric residents.
I am double board certified psychiatrist specializing in numerous psychiatric disorders as well as addiction disorders. I completed training at St. Lukes Roosevelt Hospital, Columbia and a specialty in Addiction at Beth Israel Hospital. For many years I was the Associate Director of the Psychiatric Emergency Department at Kings County Hospital and later became the Director of Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. I have lectured about the many forms of addiction at conferences and participated in Grand Rounds for hospitals, discussing addiction and eating disorders.I am on the medical faculty at SUNY Downstate Hospital providing guidance, teaching and mentoring for psychiatric residents.
(347) 848-1517 View (347) 848-1517
Photo of Douglas John Van Der Heide, Psychiatrist, MD
Douglas John Van Der Heide
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
Most patients seeking treatment feel that despite their best efforts, inside they feel helpless, confused and demoralized. Dynamic psychotherapy and its "big brother" psychoanalysis are treatments designed to repair self-esteem and restore a full capacity for living. I see patients frequently, usually twice a week and it is out of our work together that hidden self-knowledge emerges and a renewed optimism about life's possibilities arises. Please visit my web site: www.drvanderheide.com or call me to discuss how I might help you.
Most patients seeking treatment feel that despite their best efforts, inside they feel helpless, confused and demoralized. Dynamic psychotherapy and its "big brother" psychoanalysis are treatments designed to repair self-esteem and restore a full capacity for living. I see patients frequently, usually twice a week and it is out of our work together that hidden self-knowledge emerges and a renewed optimism about life's possibilities arises. Please visit my web site: www.drvanderheide.com or call me to discuss how I might help you.
(646) 807-4197 View (646) 807-4197
Photo of Samuel Basch, Psychiatrist, MD
Samuel Basch
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10028
I am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and a Psychoanalyst trained at the Columbia University Psychoanalytic Institute. I have over 25 years experience treating people suffering from anxiety, depression, panic and bipolar disorders and schizophrenia. I also work with patients who have conflict in their everyday lives with personal relationships and work-related stress and who have obsessive compulsive, eating and sexual disorders. Additionally, I provide psychological care to people who are medically ill. My approach is highly individualized and I work with patients to consider their specific circumstances in formulating treatment plans.
I am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and a Psychoanalyst trained at the Columbia University Psychoanalytic Institute. I have over 25 years experience treating people suffering from anxiety, depression, panic and bipolar disorders and schizophrenia. I also work with patients who have conflict in their everyday lives with personal relationships and work-related stress and who have obsessive compulsive, eating and sexual disorders. Additionally, I provide psychological care to people who are medically ill. My approach is highly individualized and I work with patients to consider their specific circumstances in formulating treatment plans.
(646) 832-4696 View (646) 832-4696
Photo of David Gaita, Psychiatrist, MD
David Gaita
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10028
It is no small task to lead a fulfilling life with meaningful relationships and a sense of purpose. In times of suffering, that goal can seem impossible. When our usual ways of adapting to stress fail, we need an outside perspective to guide us to a deeper understanding of our harmful and at times destructive mental patterns. There is no simple algorithm for healing the complex wounds formed over a lifetime. For some, a carefully tailored medication regimen can be helpful, leading to relatively quick relief of debilitating symptoms. For others a purely psychotherapeutic approach may be a better fit.
It is no small task to lead a fulfilling life with meaningful relationships and a sense of purpose. In times of suffering, that goal can seem impossible. When our usual ways of adapting to stress fail, we need an outside perspective to guide us to a deeper understanding of our harmful and at times destructive mental patterns. There is no simple algorithm for healing the complex wounds formed over a lifetime. For some, a carefully tailored medication regimen can be helpful, leading to relatively quick relief of debilitating symptoms. For others a purely psychotherapeutic approach may be a better fit.
(914) 730-5952 View (914) 730-5952
Photo of Rochelle George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rochelle George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner, specializing in psychiatry. I received my Masters of Science in Nursing from Walden University in 2022. After graduating, I worked at a psychiatric emergency room (ER) in Dallas, Texas before transitioning to outpatient services.
I am a board-certified nurse practitioner, specializing in psychiatry. I received my Masters of Science in Nursing from Walden University in 2022. After graduating, I worked at a psychiatric emergency room (ER) in Dallas, Texas before transitioning to outpatient services.
(914) 604-2238 View (914) 604-2238
Photo of Kelseanne Breder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, RN-BC
Kelseanne Breder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, RN-BC
New York, NY 10028
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a psychoanalytic candidate at New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. I earned my PhD and two masters degrees from Columbia University in the City of New York. In addition to seeing patients in my private practice, I work as a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU, where I teach graduate psychotherapy and narrative medicine techniques.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a psychoanalytic candidate at New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. I earned my PhD and two masters degrees from Columbia University in the City of New York. In addition to seeing patients in my private practice, I work as a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU, where I teach graduate psychotherapy and narrative medicine techniques.
(914) 546-4854 View (914) 546-4854
Photo of Amanie Salem, Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Amanie Salem
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal as a psychiatrist is to provide the best evidenced-based, integrative care for my patients, working with them to foster positive change and achieve their goals through psychotherapeutic methods and/or medication management. I am board certified in psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry, and use this to build foundations for patients' long term success.
My goal as a psychiatrist is to provide the best evidenced-based, integrative care for my patients, working with them to foster positive change and achieve their goals through psychotherapeutic methods and/or medication management. I am board certified in psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry, and use this to build foundations for patients' long term success.
(914) 556-1952 View (914) 556-1952
Photo of Jacqueline Penn, Psychiatrist, DO
Jacqueline Penn
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Penn is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats adults, children, and adolescents. She is dedicated to providing quality, evidence-based, individualized treatment. Dr. Penn is currently an attending psychiatrist and clinical professor at New York University (NYU) and is in private practice. She is licensed in New York and California. She completed her Child & Adolescent Fellowship at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and her residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. ​
Dr. Penn is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats adults, children, and adolescents. She is dedicated to providing quality, evidence-based, individualized treatment. Dr. Penn is currently an attending psychiatrist and clinical professor at New York University (NYU) and is in private practice. She is licensed in New York and California. She completed her Child & Adolescent Fellowship at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and her residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. ​
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Photo of Dr. Jonathan House, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jonathan House
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10028
I worked as an internist before training in psychiatry and then in psychoanalysis. My patients are generally people who are unhappy in some way in spite of their success in their career or family life or both - often people for whom medication and psychotherapy has not worked or worked only partially in the past . Most of my work is insight oriented talk therapy or psychoanalysis. However some patients whom I see only for medication I see only a couple of times each year.
I worked as an internist before training in psychiatry and then in psychoanalysis. My patients are generally people who are unhappy in some way in spite of their success in their career or family life or both - often people for whom medication and psychotherapy has not worked or worked only partially in the past . Most of my work is insight oriented talk therapy or psychoanalysis. However some patients whom I see only for medication I see only a couple of times each year.
(646) 679-7304 View (646) 679-7304
Photo of Dr. Christian Stephen Monsalve, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Christian Stephen Monsalve
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I serve patients who desire authentic human flourishing, treatment reflective of the highest quality evidence, and a non-political physician. I combine my education as a Medical Doctor and undergraduate degree in philosophy to offer treatment that does not reduce the patient to mere biochemistry. Rather, I serve patients who are persons with intrinsic dignity. Verigrate Health was founded to integrate veritas—truth—into every aspect of patient care. I practice medicine that seeks to address root causes. Our services include precision tapering (de-prescribing), non-stimulant treatment of ADHD, and private, individualized care.
I serve patients who desire authentic human flourishing, treatment reflective of the highest quality evidence, and a non-political physician. I combine my education as a Medical Doctor and undergraduate degree in philosophy to offer treatment that does not reduce the patient to mere biochemistry. Rather, I serve patients who are persons with intrinsic dignity. Verigrate Health was founded to integrate veritas—truth—into every aspect of patient care. I practice medicine that seeks to address root causes. Our services include precision tapering (de-prescribing), non-stimulant treatment of ADHD, and private, individualized care.
(646) 681-5336 View (646) 681-5336
Photo of Maril Yehudian, Psychiatrist, MD
Maril Yehudian
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10028
Welcome to my practice. I am a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist. I work with toddlers, children, teens, young adults, and families facing a range of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, gender identity issues, academic difficulties, autism, family conflict, psychosis, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and more.
Welcome to my practice. I am a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist. I work with toddlers, children, teens, young adults, and families facing a range of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, gender identity issues, academic difficulties, autism, family conflict, psychosis, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and more.
(347) 321-9978 View (347) 321-9978
Photo of Heather Kawalick, Psychiatrist, MD
Heather Kawalick
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10028
Dr. Kawalick is a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist. She treats a range of psychiatric conditions in adults utilizing psychotherapy, medication management, and combination treatment, based on individual need and preference. She completed residency training in psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital - Weill Cornell Medicine, where she served as Chief Resident. She completed a fellowship in geriatric psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital - Weill Cornell Medicine Institute of Geriatric Psychiatry. She sees patients both virtually and at her office on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
Dr. Kawalick is a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist. She treats a range of psychiatric conditions in adults utilizing psychotherapy, medication management, and combination treatment, based on individual need and preference. She completed residency training in psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital - Weill Cornell Medicine, where she served as Chief Resident. She completed a fellowship in geriatric psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital - Weill Cornell Medicine Institute of Geriatric Psychiatry. She sees patients both virtually and at her office on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
(212) 360-6285 View (212) 360-6285

See more therapy options for 10028

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10028

70+

Average cost per session

$350

Psychiatrists in 10028 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
94% Depression
82% Medication Management
76% ADHD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
70% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 10028 see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

53% Female
47% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10028?

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.