Psychiatrists in 10035

Photo of Elke Kraus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Elke Kraus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a double Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with specialized training in CBT-I, I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, challenges with interpersonal relationships, grief, including pet grief, sleep disorders, and more. I create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans that go beyond short-term remedies. Whether it’s optimizing medication, implementing targeted therapy modalities, or integrating both, the heart of my practice is in empowering individuals to reclaim their mental health—helping them move past the limitations of their struggles and toward a life of clarity, confidence, healing, and resilience.
As a double Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with specialized training in CBT-I, I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, challenges with interpersonal relationships, grief, including pet grief, sleep disorders, and more. I create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans that go beyond short-term remedies. Whether it’s optimizing medication, implementing targeted therapy modalities, or integrating both, the heart of my practice is in empowering individuals to reclaim their mental health—helping them move past the limitations of their struggles and toward a life of clarity, confidence, healing, and resilience.
(646) 466-5244 View (646) 466-5244
Photo of Lesley Cano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
Lesley Cano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10035
Hi, My name is Lesley! I have been working in behavioral health for almost a decade and within that time I have been a mental provider for 5 yrs creating treatment plans that change lives and minds on a daily basis. I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked with a diverse population of clients throughout my years of clinical experience in various psychiatric settings such as inpatient psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, psychiatric emergency rooms, and residential treatment programs. I specialize in treating clients that have depression, mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD.
Hi, My name is Lesley! I have been working in behavioral health for almost a decade and within that time I have been a mental provider for 5 yrs creating treatment plans that change lives and minds on a daily basis. I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked with a diverse population of clients throughout my years of clinical experience in various psychiatric settings such as inpatient psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, psychiatric emergency rooms, and residential treatment programs. I specialize in treating clients that have depression, mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD.
(929) 429-4667 View (929) 429-4667
Photo of Joana Milla, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Joana Milla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10035
Waitlist for new clients
As a compassionate and experienced psychiatric practitioner, I am committed to supporting individuals on their journey toward behavioral well-being. I specialize in helping clients navigate various conditions by integrating evidence-based therapies and medication management. My comprehensive care includes support for medication use, along with standardized testing and screening to evaluate and identify conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Trauma, social anxiety, insomnia, Eating disorders, Body image anxiety, and finally, elaborate and meet your therapeutic goals.
As a compassionate and experienced psychiatric practitioner, I am committed to supporting individuals on their journey toward behavioral well-being. I specialize in helping clients navigate various conditions by integrating evidence-based therapies and medication management. My comprehensive care includes support for medication use, along with standardized testing and screening to evaluate and identify conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Trauma, social anxiety, insomnia, Eating disorders, Body image anxiety, and finally, elaborate and meet your therapeutic goals.
(718) 785-8323 View (718) 785-8323
Photo of Mary Bumpars, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Mary Bumpars
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Online Only
During this journey of life, we encounter different stressors, both organic and inorganic, and need support. These stressors can expose areas of our lives that require a special touch. Phases of Life Psychiatry is here to meet you where you are. During our judgment-free assessment the client can feel free to express themselves and will be offered comprehensive feedback and sound recommendation for healthy living and mental wellbeing.
During this journey of life, we encounter different stressors, both organic and inorganic, and need support. These stressors can expose areas of our lives that require a special touch. Phases of Life Psychiatry is here to meet you where you are. During our judgment-free assessment the client can feel free to express themselves and will be offered comprehensive feedback and sound recommendation for healthy living and mental wellbeing.
(718) 550-5547 View (718) 550-5547
Photo of Kirstie M Crespo-Solomon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Kirstie M Crespo-Solomon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked in the healthcare field for over fifteen years, with a strong background in emergency medicine, and behavioral health. The last 15 years have prepared me to continue to be a leader in the profession.
I have worked in the healthcare field for over fifteen years, with a strong background in emergency medicine, and behavioral health. The last 15 years have prepared me to continue to be a leader in the profession.
(929) 395-1830 View (929) 395-1830
Photo of Franchesca Ali, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Franchesca Ali
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone facing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance use issues, seeking compassionate, holistic care. They need a safe space to explore their emotions, tailored treatment plans, and support for achieving recovery and balance. Their goal is to improve well-being, manage symptoms effectively, and regain control of their lives. They value personalized, culturally sensitive care that empowers them to thrive and grow. Together, we build resilience and foster lasting health.
My ideal client is someone facing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or substance use issues, seeking compassionate, holistic care. They need a safe space to explore their emotions, tailored treatment plans, and support for achieving recovery and balance. Their goal is to improve well-being, manage symptoms effectively, and regain control of their lives. They value personalized, culturally sensitive care that empowers them to thrive and grow. Together, we build resilience and foster lasting health.
(914) 292-0174 View (914) 292-0174
Photo of Haja Kargbo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Haja Kargbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My patient population includes individuals experiencing severe mood disorders, psychotic episodes, substance use-related complications, and dual diagnoses. I conduct thorough psychiatric assessments and evaluations, develop individualized treatment plans, and manage psychotropic medications.
My patient population includes individuals experiencing severe mood disorders, psychotic episodes, substance use-related complications, and dual diagnoses. I conduct thorough psychiatric assessments and evaluations, develop individualized treatment plans, and manage psychotropic medications.
(914) 809-8769 View (914) 809-8769
Photo of Christine M. Fitzsimmons, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P
Christine M. Fitzsimmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to equitable mental health care for adults and older adults. I provide psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in helping people overcome anxiety, depression, substance use disorders and many other struggles. I have training in Psychodynamic and Somatic Experiencing Therapy. I take a harm reduction approach, centering the client's own goals for their wellbeing.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to equitable mental health care for adults and older adults. I provide psychotherapy and medication management. I specialize in helping people overcome anxiety, depression, substance use disorders and many other struggles. I have training in Psychodynamic and Somatic Experiencing Therapy. I take a harm reduction approach, centering the client's own goals for their wellbeing.
(646) 846-2716 View (646) 846-2716
Photo of Karen B Rosenbaum, Psychiatrist, MD
Karen B Rosenbaum
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I treat people with difficulties in relationships, work, school, and social settings. I have an eclectic style in psychotherapy, with a psychodynamic focus, as well as administer medication when necessary. I will incorporate techniques to help with changing habits, lifestyle, and to encourage healthier coping skills. I also specialize in treating people with trauma in their background which is also helpful during this stressful time of forced isolation and collective fear.
I treat people with difficulties in relationships, work, school, and social settings. I have an eclectic style in psychotherapy, with a psychodynamic focus, as well as administer medication when necessary. I will incorporate techniques to help with changing habits, lifestyle, and to encourage healthier coping skills. I also specialize in treating people with trauma in their background which is also helpful during this stressful time of forced isolation and collective fear.
(917) 791-4185 View (917) 791-4185
Photo of Laura J Dalheim, Psychiatrist, MD
Laura J Dalheim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Would you like a warm and experienced psychiatrist to help you overcome your difficulties? I have extensive experience with all variety of emotional and psychiatric issues, having worked with adults in hospital, community and office settings. I provide psychotherapy for the individual, with or without medication management. I also will provide medication management alone if desired. Pharmacogenetic testing is an exciting technology which allows for selection of medications without trial and error. I now provide this testing (simple cheek swab), analysis and counseling. Test kits can be sent directly to patient.
Would you like a warm and experienced psychiatrist to help you overcome your difficulties? I have extensive experience with all variety of emotional and psychiatric issues, having worked with adults in hospital, community and office settings. I provide psychotherapy for the individual, with or without medication management. I also will provide medication management alone if desired. Pharmacogenetic testing is an exciting technology which allows for selection of medications without trial and error. I now provide this testing (simple cheek swab), analysis and counseling. Test kits can be sent directly to patient.
(646) 583-0952 View (646) 583-0952
Photo of Phillip E Romero - Phillip E. Romero, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Phillip E. Romero, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
You’ve achieved conventional success. Despite being financially stable with a family or successful career, you feel overwhelmed. Stress is constant. You feel out of control. So many things seem wrong (when they should be right). It’s so hard to communicate how you feel. Little disappointments trigger big stress. No matter how hard you try, it’s never enough. You feel like a hostage to your own life. Is this burnout?
You’ve achieved conventional success. Despite being financially stable with a family or successful career, you feel overwhelmed. Stress is constant. You feel out of control. So many things seem wrong (when they should be right). It’s so hard to communicate how you feel. Little disappointments trigger big stress. No matter how hard you try, it’s never enough. You feel like a hostage to your own life. Is this burnout?
(646) 600-8199 View (646) 600-8199
Photo of Joseph Gagnon - Psychiatric Edge, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Psychiatric Edge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Joseph Gagnon, CRNP, owner of Psychiatric Edge, believes that mental health care should be accessible, convenient, and compassionate. Joe's practice is committed to providing high-quality psychiatric services to individuals across NJ, PA, and NY. We have the capability of seeing clients in person or virtually. We strive to empower our clients to overcome challenges and achieve their mental health goals. Joe truly takes the time to listen to his clients through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy sessions. Schedule today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow!
Joseph Gagnon, CRNP, owner of Psychiatric Edge, believes that mental health care should be accessible, convenient, and compassionate. Joe's practice is committed to providing high-quality psychiatric services to individuals across NJ, PA, and NY. We have the capability of seeing clients in person or virtually. We strive to empower our clients to overcome challenges and achieve their mental health goals. Joe truly takes the time to listen to his clients through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy sessions. Schedule today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow!
(908) 650-1373 View (908) 650-1373
Julie Y Low
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in goal-oriented and empathic therapy, as well as conservative, targeted, and effective psychopharmacologic intervention when indicated. In my experience, high quality communication between patient and psychiatrist most often leads to optimal outcomes. I am located in downtown Manhattan and am on the faculty of NYU and St. Vincent's Hospital
I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in goal-oriented and empathic therapy, as well as conservative, targeted, and effective psychopharmacologic intervention when indicated. In my experience, high quality communication between patient and psychiatrist most often leads to optimal outcomes. I am located in downtown Manhattan and am on the faculty of NYU and St. Vincent's Hospital
(646) 600-8075 View (646) 600-8075

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Amy Zhu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amy Zhu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I completed my psychiatric nurse practitioner training at NYU with a clinical focus in child/adolescent psychiatry. Since then I have worked extensively with adolescents coming out of intensive care programs for psychosis and children/adolescents with neurodiversity. I am also an adjunct faculty at NYU School of Nursing teaching inpatient psychiatric clinicals. I provide various psychiatric assessment and treatment, including psychiatric evaluation, medication management, individual therapy, school collorations and genetic testing. A typical initial evaluation is 90 minutes and the follow-ups are 30 minutes.
I completed my psychiatric nurse practitioner training at NYU with a clinical focus in child/adolescent psychiatry. Since then I have worked extensively with adolescents coming out of intensive care programs for psychosis and children/adolescents with neurodiversity. I am also an adjunct faculty at NYU School of Nursing teaching inpatient psychiatric clinicals. I provide various psychiatric assessment and treatment, including psychiatric evaluation, medication management, individual therapy, school collorations and genetic testing. A typical initial evaluation is 90 minutes and the follow-ups are 30 minutes.
(646) 916-4831 View (646) 916-4831
Photo of Connected Minds - Connected Minds, Psychiatrist, MD
Connected Minds
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Connected Minds is currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person appointments! We are a mental health wellness clinic licensed in the state of Georgia, California, and New York (accepting California and New York clients for virtual medication visits only). We have a particular interest in working with adults and high profile clients. However, all referral requests are welcome for review. Allow our team of mental health experts to help you today!
Connected Minds is currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person appointments! We are a mental health wellness clinic licensed in the state of Georgia, California, and New York (accepting California and New York clients for virtual medication visits only). We have a particular interest in working with adults and high profile clients. However, all referral requests are welcome for review. Allow our team of mental health experts to help you today!
(678) 383-9532 View (678) 383-9532
Photo of Dr. Osman Athar, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Osman Athar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Osman Athar is board certified in General Psychiatry and board eligible in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry. He graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in English from Rice University, from McGovern Medical School for his medical doctorate and went on to complete Psychiatry residency at the University of Texas-Houston where he served as a chief resident. Afterwards, he completed fellowship in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry at Louisiana State University - Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
Dr. Osman Athar is board certified in General Psychiatry and board eligible in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry. He graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in English from Rice University, from McGovern Medical School for his medical doctorate and went on to complete Psychiatry residency at the University of Texas-Houston where he served as a chief resident. Afterwards, he completed fellowship in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry at Louisiana State University - Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
(917) 634-5311 View (917) 634-5311
Photo of Arthur Platt, Psychiatrist, DO
Arthur Platt
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Westbury, NY 11590
Dr. Platt received his psychiatric training at The Roosevelt Hospital in NYC. Dr. Platt is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Osteopathic Board of Neurology and Psychiatry. He was Chief of Adult Psychiatry at United Hospitals Medical Center in Newark, NJ from 1980-1997. He has also been the medical director of several partial hospital programs and outpatient mental health clinics.
Dr. Platt received his psychiatric training at The Roosevelt Hospital in NYC. Dr. Platt is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Osteopathic Board of Neurology and Psychiatry. He was Chief of Adult Psychiatry at United Hospitals Medical Center in Newark, NJ from 1980-1997. He has also been the medical director of several partial hospital programs and outpatient mental health clinics.
(516) 289-0582 View (516) 289-0582
Photo of Christine Chollak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Christine Chollak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I use medication management to treat mental health disorders in a supportive and compassionate environment. I work with individuals to identify safe and appropriate strategies that align with their preferences and goals of treatment. After working with many different populations, I have come to adopt a comprehensive, patient focused, and evidence-based treatment approach rooted in interdisciplinary care.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I use medication management to treat mental health disorders in a supportive and compassionate environment. I work with individuals to identify safe and appropriate strategies that align with their preferences and goals of treatment. After working with many different populations, I have come to adopt a comprehensive, patient focused, and evidence-based treatment approach rooted in interdisciplinary care.
(347) 966-4639 View (347) 966-4639
Photo of Carol L Kessler, Psychiatrist, MD, MDiv
Carol L Kessler
Psychiatrist, MD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Online Only
I serve children, adolescents and adults who are in need of appropriate diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I am able to prescribe medication when indicated, yet make this decision in the context of an evaluation of psychological, social, spiritual and familial circumstances. I strive to provide a compassionate, safe space for those seeking my care.
I serve children, adolescents and adults who are in need of appropriate diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I am able to prescribe medication when indicated, yet make this decision in the context of an evaluation of psychological, social, spiritual and familial circumstances. I strive to provide a compassionate, safe space for those seeking my care.
(914) 819-5002 View (914) 819-5002
Photo of Akosua Karikari, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Akosua Karikari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11233
Welcome! Taking the first step toward mental health care is a brave decision, and I’m here to support you. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in providing compassionate, personalized care. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and valued. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, or stress, I take a holistic approach to care, understanding the connection between mental and physical health. Together, we’ll build a plan to help you achieve balance, resilience, and well-being. Let’s start this journey together.
Welcome! Taking the first step toward mental health care is a brave decision, and I’m here to support you. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in providing compassionate, personalized care. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and valued. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, or stress, I take a holistic approach to care, understanding the connection between mental and physical health. Together, we’ll build a plan to help you achieve balance, resilience, and well-being. Let’s start this journey together.
(973) 447-1479 View (973) 447-1479

See more therapy options for 10035

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10035

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 10035 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
92% ADHD
92% Medication Management
69% Bipolar Disorder
69% Sleep or Insomnia
69% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 10035 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10035?

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.