Psychiatrists in 10040

Shoshannah Pearlman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
New York, NY 10040
Waitlist for new clients
Attention, impulse control, and trauma-related issues are often misunderstood, stigmatized, and poorly treated. With time and treatment, patients who are affected learn to recognize and compensate for their symptoms. Self-acceptance brings appreciation for their own energy, strengths, and resilience. Many continue to exciting lives of high achievement and satisfaction. It is my privilege to accompany you on this journey.
Attention, impulse control, and trauma-related issues are often misunderstood, stigmatized, and poorly treated. With time and treatment, patients who are affected learn to recognize and compensate for their symptoms. Self-acceptance brings appreciation for their own energy, strengths, and resilience. Many continue to exciting lives of high achievement and satisfaction. It is my privilege to accompany you on this journey.

I am Board certified in Adult and Child psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have 12+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. I believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. I partner with patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy.
I am Board certified in Adult and Child psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have 12+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. I believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. I partner with patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy.

I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for all stages of life. I specialized women's mental health and perinatal mental health. I have a passion for empowering women and an understanding that women’s reproductive experiences require UNIQUE support.
Some gynecological and pregnancy/postpartum disorders I treat include:
Abnormal periods (Polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, etc),
PMDD/PMS,
Fertility,
Pregnancy,
Pregnancy loss,
Postpartum transition,
Perinatal mood disorders,
Menopause mood changes and transition,
Anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges
I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for all stages of life. I specialized women's mental health and perinatal mental health. I have a passion for empowering women and an understanding that women’s reproductive experiences require UNIQUE support.
Some gynecological and pregnancy/postpartum disorders I treat include:
Abnormal periods (Polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, etc),
PMDD/PMS,
Fertility,
Pregnancy,
Pregnancy loss,
Postpartum transition,
Perinatal mood disorders,
Menopause mood changes and transition,
Anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges

Congratulations on your decision to seek help! You've just taken the first step toward bettering your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, challenges in attention and focus, difficulties with your career, relationship, or self-esteem, I will work with you to find a treatment plan that is right for you. I offer a safe, supportive and private environment where you have the space to work through barriers that make it difficult to move forward. I focus on customizing treatment for each client, including psychotherapy alone or in combination with medication after careful consideration.
Congratulations on your decision to seek help! You've just taken the first step toward bettering your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, challenges in attention and focus, difficulties with your career, relationship, or self-esteem, I will work with you to find a treatment plan that is right for you. I offer a safe, supportive and private environment where you have the space to work through barriers that make it difficult to move forward. I focus on customizing treatment for each client, including psychotherapy alone or in combination with medication after careful consideration.

Congratulations on your decision to find help! Treatment is an opportunity to explore and discover your true self and to gain insight into your own process. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, challenges in attention and focus, difficulties with career, relationship, or self-esteem, we will work together to find a treatment plan that is right for you. I offer a supportive environment where you have the space to work through barriers that make it difficult to move forward. I focus on customizing treatment for each client, including psychotherapy alone or in combination with medication after careful consideration.
Congratulations on your decision to find help! Treatment is an opportunity to explore and discover your true self and to gain insight into your own process. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, challenges in attention and focus, difficulties with career, relationship, or self-esteem, we will work together to find a treatment plan that is right for you. I offer a supportive environment where you have the space to work through barriers that make it difficult to move forward. I focus on customizing treatment for each client, including psychotherapy alone or in combination with medication after careful consideration.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Elise Richards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
New York, NY 10038
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes the challenges we face can leave us with difficult emotions that are hard to navigate. Together we can unpack these issues and develop a plan that will empower you to meet your goals. My practice utilizes a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treatment that is tailored to address your specific needs.
Sometimes the challenges we face can leave us with difficult emotions that are hard to navigate. Together we can unpack these issues and develop a plan that will empower you to meet your goals. My practice utilizes a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treatment that is tailored to address your specific needs.

Well Space Women's Mental Health care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
So glad you found me! I have more than 30 years of experience and specialize in women's mental health, perinatal and reproductive psychiatry. I offer free phone consultations and can answer any questions you have before making an appointment. I am one of the few providers in reproductive psychiatry that accepts insurance. My approach is individualized, person centered, holistic care.
So glad you found me! I have more than 30 years of experience and specialize in women's mental health, perinatal and reproductive psychiatry. I offer free phone consultations and can answer any questions you have before making an appointment. I am one of the few providers in reproductive psychiatry that accepts insurance. My approach is individualized, person centered, holistic care.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of nursing experience, most of it in psychiatry across emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and correctional settings. In practice as an NP since 2021, I have provided compassionate, evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults, with a focus on treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and insomnia. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and rooted in building collaborative, trusting relationships to support long-term mental wellness.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of nursing experience, most of it in psychiatry across emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and correctional settings. In practice as an NP since 2021, I have provided compassionate, evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults, with a focus on treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and insomnia. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and rooted in building collaborative, trusting relationships to support long-term mental wellness.

I am a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the pharmacologic management of psychiatric conditions. I treat adults for a wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder and attention deficit disorder. I have extensive training and experience in psychotherapy, but my practice is focused primarily on psychopharmacology. For individuals interested in both medication management and psychotherapy, I will work with your current therapist or will provide a referral to a experienced psychotherapist.
I am a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the pharmacologic management of psychiatric conditions. I treat adults for a wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder and attention deficit disorder. I have extensive training and experience in psychotherapy, but my practice is focused primarily on psychopharmacology. For individuals interested in both medication management and psychotherapy, I will work with your current therapist or will provide a referral to a experienced psychotherapist.

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.

My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in Texas, DC and New York. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. At every visit, Dr. Bankole provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in Texas, DC and New York. I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. At every visit, Dr. Bankole provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals.

I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.

I worked in inpatient and outpatient for New York Presbyterian for over 20 years and have experienced many different cases in the field of mental illness. This flexibility and experience have allowed me to help a variety of clients who want to get a highest quality of care for their psychology health issues. I offer a thorough evaluation in the bio-psycho-social model, and working with the client will make a collaborative plan to address their needs and goals. Listening and understanding my clients to give them the best treatment is my ultimate goal.
I worked in inpatient and outpatient for New York Presbyterian for over 20 years and have experienced many different cases in the field of mental illness. This flexibility and experience have allowed me to help a variety of clients who want to get a highest quality of care for their psychology health issues. I offer a thorough evaluation in the bio-psycho-social model, and working with the client will make a collaborative plan to address their needs and goals. Listening and understanding my clients to give them the best treatment is my ultimate goal.

As a bilingual Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am trained to provide care with a dual emphasis on the treatment of the whole patient through psychopharmacology and brief psychotherapy, across the lifespan.My goal is to increase a general understanding of mental health issues and also bring more of a holistic approach to providing the best care.
As a bilingual Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am trained to provide care with a dual emphasis on the treatment of the whole patient through psychopharmacology and brief psychotherapy, across the lifespan.My goal is to increase a general understanding of mental health issues and also bring more of a holistic approach to providing the best care.

With extensive experience in conditions like bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, I bring a whole-person approach to treatment, addressing not only symptoms but also your unique lifestyle, values, and environment. From seniors and students to LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and other underrepresented groups, I understand the importance of feeling seen and respected. I integrate a range of practices to foster resilience and self-awareness, including the benefits of physical activity, mindful eating, the healing power of nature, and meaningful hobbies.
With extensive experience in conditions like bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, I bring a whole-person approach to treatment, addressing not only symptoms but also your unique lifestyle, values, and environment. From seniors and students to LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and other underrepresented groups, I understand the importance of feeling seen and respected. I integrate a range of practices to foster resilience and self-awareness, including the benefits of physical activity, mindful eating, the healing power of nature, and meaningful hobbies.

Sarah Carmody is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained both her Doctorate in Psychiatric Nursing Practice and her Master’s degree from Columbia University. Sarah believes that empathy is essential to developing a therapeutic alliance with each individual she has the privilege of caring for. Her primary aim is to provide an empathetic, safe, and non-judgmental environment where she can support each client’s unique treatment goals. She looks forward to collaborating with you.
Sarah Carmody is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She obtained both her Doctorate in Psychiatric Nursing Practice and her Master’s degree from Columbia University. Sarah believes that empathy is essential to developing a therapeutic alliance with each individual she has the privilege of caring for. Her primary aim is to provide an empathetic, safe, and non-judgmental environment where she can support each client’s unique treatment goals. She looks forward to collaborating with you.

I am Jean-Jeffrey Marcellus, DNP, PMHNP-BC, AGNP-BC, a Doctoral prepared Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health & Adult Nurse Practitioner who has over 10 years of experience in Adult Health and Addiction Medicine. I specialize in the treatment of substance use disorders using Medication Assisted Treatment. I focus on the treatment of ADHD, mood disorders, insomnia, and pain. I have extensive experience in treating individuals who are seeking assistance in their recovery journey from: Alcohol, Benzodiazepine, Opiates, Heroin, Kratom, and other Pain Medications.
I am Jean-Jeffrey Marcellus, DNP, PMHNP-BC, AGNP-BC, a Doctoral prepared Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health & Adult Nurse Practitioner who has over 10 years of experience in Adult Health and Addiction Medicine. I specialize in the treatment of substance use disorders using Medication Assisted Treatment. I focus on the treatment of ADHD, mood disorders, insomnia, and pain. I have extensive experience in treating individuals who are seeking assistance in their recovery journey from: Alcohol, Benzodiazepine, Opiates, Heroin, Kratom, and other Pain Medications.

Young adults, adolescents, and children, may face a variety of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, trauma, and adjustment difficulties. They seek a safe, supportive environment to express themselves, develop emotional regulation and coping skills, and succeed academically and socially. Their aspiration is to overcome these challenges, feel understood, and lead fulfilling lives, excelling in their academic and extracurricular pursuits.
Young adults, adolescents, and children, may face a variety of mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, trauma, and adjustment difficulties. They seek a safe, supportive environment to express themselves, develop emotional regulation and coping skills, and succeed academically and socially. Their aspiration is to overcome these challenges, feel understood, and lead fulfilling lives, excelling in their academic and extracurricular pursuits.

I’m Rebecca Booker, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of diverse nursing experience, specializing in mental health, psychiatry, and psychotherapy. My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, or insomnia. They seek compassionate care to regain balance and improve their mental well-being. Their goal is to overcome struggles, restore peace, and lead a fulfilling, empowered life.
I’m Rebecca Booker, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 22 years of diverse nursing experience, specializing in mental health, psychiatry, and psychotherapy. My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, or insomnia. They seek compassionate care to regain balance and improve their mental well-being. Their goal is to overcome struggles, restore peace, and lead a fulfilling, empowered life.

I completed my Fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist at the Cambridge Health Alliance Fellowship, Harvard Medical School, and I completed my Residency in Psychiatry at Creedmoor Psychiatric Center, New York State Office of Mental Health/NYP/Columbia. I received my M.D. degree at Technion, Israel Institute of Technology. I currently have a private practice in Manhattan. I also supervise Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists in training as Assistant Professor at Hofstra Medical School. I work with families, children, and adults, and provide family work, individual psychotherapies, and pharmacology.
I completed my Fellowship training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist at the Cambridge Health Alliance Fellowship, Harvard Medical School, and I completed my Residency in Psychiatry at Creedmoor Psychiatric Center, New York State Office of Mental Health/NYP/Columbia. I received my M.D. degree at Technion, Israel Institute of Technology. I currently have a private practice in Manhattan. I also supervise Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists in training as Assistant Professor at Hofstra Medical School. I work with families, children, and adults, and provide family work, individual psychotherapies, and pharmacology.
See more therapy options for 10040
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 10040
< 10
Psychiatrists in 10040 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
80% | Addiction |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Coping Skills |
80% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in 10040 see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 10040?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.