Psychiatrists in 10105

Photo of Kirt Lewis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kirt Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My vision is to improve the lives of those living with mental illness and provide emotional wellness for individuals and families as we strive to deliver services and support necessary to improve the quality of life for children, youth, and adults with mental illness and addictive disorders.
My vision is to improve the lives of those living with mental illness and provide emotional wellness for individuals and families as we strive to deliver services and support necessary to improve the quality of life for children, youth, and adults with mental illness and addictive disorders.
(914) 687-5309 View (914) 687-5309

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jaskaran Grewal, PhD, Psychiatrist
Jaskaran Grewal
Psychiatrist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Jaskaran Singh Grewal is a highly skilled psychiatrist with a passion for helping his patients live better lives. Dr. Grewal earned his medical degree from the American University of Antigua in Antigua and Barbuda. He then went on to complete his residency in psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York. A distinguished member of the American Psychiatric Association, Dr. Grewal believes in working collaboratively with his patients in a down-to-earth and practical manner while offering the most up-to-date and scientifically proven treatment.
Dr. Jaskaran Singh Grewal is a highly skilled psychiatrist with a passion for helping his patients live better lives. Dr. Grewal earned his medical degree from the American University of Antigua in Antigua and Barbuda. He then went on to complete his residency in psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York. A distinguished member of the American Psychiatric Association, Dr. Grewal believes in working collaboratively with his patients in a down-to-earth and practical manner while offering the most up-to-date and scientifically proven treatment.
(646) 849-8413 x1 View (646) 849-8413 x1
Photo of Meredith Hobart, MSN, NP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meredith Hobart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
I am an Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in precision psychiatry. I received my graduate degree from Yale University School of Nursing in 2006. In addition to being a Nurse Practitioner, I have been a psychiatric RN for many years. Prior to entering Yale, I worked for 7 years on a major Harvard Medical School psychiatric teaching unit. I am a conservative prescriber and believe in using the smallest possible dosages of medication to treat a client's symptoms. I do very thorough initial evaluations with my clients and work with them closely until they are stable on their medications.
(646) 693-6978 View (646) 693-6978
Photo of Ruth C Schefflan, NP-P, MS, BS, Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruth C Schefflan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-P, MS, BS, Therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you frequently feel that stress, anxiety, anger, or depression interfere with your daily activities? If you do, I can offer help in relieving your emotional discomfort from whatever source. As an experienced, empathic, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with additional institute training in psychotherapy and mental health, I can provide you with the means to nurture social connections and aid in general well-being regardless of diagnosis. I can help with methods that include use of effective coping mechanisms, conflict resolution, and problem solving.
Do you frequently feel that stress, anxiety, anger, or depression interfere with your daily activities? If you do, I can offer help in relieving your emotional discomfort from whatever source. As an experienced, empathic, psychiatric nurse practitioner, with additional institute training in psychotherapy and mental health, I can provide you with the means to nurture social connections and aid in general well-being regardless of diagnosis. I can help with methods that include use of effective coping mechanisms, conflict resolution, and problem solving.
(845) 210-9787 View (845) 210-9787
Photo of Lawrence Stansberry IV, MD, Psychiatrist
Lawrence Stansberry IV
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Stansberry holds the position of staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board eligible in Adult Psychiatry and has been practicing for four years. Dr. Stansberry’s practice focuses on medication management and also incorporates supportive therapy techniques, typically in 30-minute follow-up visits. In some cases, Dr. Stansberry may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team.
Dr. Stansberry holds the position of staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board eligible in Adult Psychiatry and has been practicing for four years. Dr. Stansberry’s practice focuses on medication management and also incorporates supportive therapy techniques, typically in 30-minute follow-up visits. In some cases, Dr. Stansberry may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team.
(917) 634-5311 View (917) 634-5311
Photo of Esther Kim, MD, ABIHM, Psychiatrist
Esther Kim
Psychiatrist, MD, ABIHM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and also board certified in integrative holistic medicine. I have special interests in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and treating individuals experiencing difficult life circumstances including relationship, high performance academic/job, and infertility stresses. I believe that mental health involves physical, emotional, environmental, cultural, and spiritual systems that are all interconnected. Treating each individual is unique and requires a thoughtful and collaborative approach and I employ an integrative and holistic approach to treatment.
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and also board certified in integrative holistic medicine. I have special interests in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and treating individuals experiencing difficult life circumstances including relationship, high performance academic/job, and infertility stresses. I believe that mental health involves physical, emotional, environmental, cultural, and spiritual systems that are all interconnected. Treating each individual is unique and requires a thoughtful and collaborative approach and I employ an integrative and holistic approach to treatment.
(917) 242-4876 View (917) 242-4876
Photo of David L Ginsberg - David L Ginsberg MD, MD, Psychiatrist
David L Ginsberg MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I strive to provide thoughtful, evidence based care that relieves your suffering and fully restores your optimism and quality of life. After a thorough and comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, I will collaborate with you in devising an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs that addresses your goals and carefully considers any care you may be receiving from other health professionals. My recommendations may involve talk therapy, medication, or the combination. Where appropriate, I may consult with or refer you to highly skilled colleagues who provide specific types of talk therapy or other subspecialized care.
I strive to provide thoughtful, evidence based care that relieves your suffering and fully restores your optimism and quality of life. After a thorough and comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, I will collaborate with you in devising an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs that addresses your goals and carefully considers any care you may be receiving from other health professionals. My recommendations may involve talk therapy, medication, or the combination. Where appropriate, I may consult with or refer you to highly skilled colleagues who provide specific types of talk therapy or other subspecialized care.
(646) 846-7261 View (646) 846-7261
Photo of Cherrisse Bunch, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cherrisse Bunch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated doctorate-level advanced nurse practitioner, I bring both years of nursing experience and compassion to the treatment of individuals with medication management for mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress conditions. My practice includes a person-centered approach, addressing Dementia cognitive behavioral disturbances in older adults, women's mental health issues, and providing education or treatment for symptom management to young adults and older.
As a dedicated doctorate-level advanced nurse practitioner, I bring both years of nursing experience and compassion to the treatment of individuals with medication management for mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress conditions. My practice includes a person-centered approach, addressing Dementia cognitive behavioral disturbances in older adults, women's mental health issues, and providing education or treatment for symptom management to young adults and older.
(332) 232-6972 View (332) 232-6972
Photo of Brigitte Gordon, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brigitte Gordon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
What is your idea of mental wellness? How do you see yourself achieving it? I specialize in multiple treatment modalities including medication management, therapy, and integrative treatment, all intended to support your mental well-being. I am experienced with the pharmacological treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, intrusive thoughts, and post traumatic stress disorder. In addition, I utilize therapy and integrative modalities of wellness to support clients' well-being. I am a multi-faceted provider that flourishes on working with clients who are open and inquisitive.
What is your idea of mental wellness? How do you see yourself achieving it? I specialize in multiple treatment modalities including medication management, therapy, and integrative treatment, all intended to support your mental well-being. I am experienced with the pharmacological treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, intrusive thoughts, and post traumatic stress disorder. In addition, I utilize therapy and integrative modalities of wellness to support clients' well-being. I am a multi-faceted provider that flourishes on working with clients who are open and inquisitive.
(914) 348-2216 View (914) 348-2216
Photo of Dr. Jessica Clark, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Jessica Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs last and wonder if life should feel better? More than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about managing relationships, careers, and life itself. Ignoring your needs can lead to long-term challenges for both your mind and body. I believe life doesn’t have to be this hard. Healing and growth are possible with the right support, and I am here to help you navigate it.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs last and wonder if life should feel better? More than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about managing relationships, careers, and life itself. Ignoring your needs can lead to long-term challenges for both your mind and body. I believe life doesn’t have to be this hard. Healing and growth are possible with the right support, and I am here to help you navigate it.
(716) 419-4021 View (716) 419-4021
Photo of Amber Blue, MD, Psychiatrist
Amber Blue
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Amber Blue is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. She completed her residency at Yale University. She offers medication management in 30-minute follow-up visits informed by her psychotherapy experience. Occasionally she may believe additional therapy would be beneficial and therefore recommend you add a therapist to your care team for the best results.
Dr. Amber Blue is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. She completed her residency at Yale University. She offers medication management in 30-minute follow-up visits informed by her psychotherapy experience. Occasionally she may believe additional therapy would be beneficial and therefore recommend you add a therapist to your care team for the best results.
(646) 392-7366 View (646) 392-7366
Photo of Steven Jay Wruble, MD, Psychiatrist
Steven Jay Wruble
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Here at the Venn Center, we offer patients a unique therapeutic experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and assessments, as well as provide both individual and group psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I also offer pharmacotherapy and medication management when appropriate. That being said, 25% of my patients are not on any medication since I employ non-medicinal interventions that help remediate psychiatric symptoms whenever possible. Offering these complementary services allows the clients I work with to feel empowered in their desire for change toward a healthier way of being.
Here at the Venn Center, we offer patients a unique therapeutic experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and assessments, as well as provide both individual and group psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I also offer pharmacotherapy and medication management when appropriate. That being said, 25% of my patients are not on any medication since I employ non-medicinal interventions that help remediate psychiatric symptoms whenever possible. Offering these complementary services allows the clients I work with to feel empowered in their desire for change toward a healthier way of being.
(201) 870-0910 View (201) 870-0910
Gail B Malloy
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, RN, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
People come into therapy for many reasons. You may be in despair, hurting, worried, scared, depressed, frustrated or confused. Maybe you are curious, and want to understand yourself more deeply. Perhaps life just isn't what you had hoped it would be. Although I do not prescribe medication, I may be able to help you with therapy.
People come into therapy for many reasons. You may be in despair, hurting, worried, scared, depressed, frustrated or confused. Maybe you are curious, and want to understand yourself more deeply. Perhaps life just isn't what you had hoped it would be. Although I do not prescribe medication, I may be able to help you with therapy.
(516) 605-3157 View (516) 605-3157
Photo of Carmen Wong, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carmen Wong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Carmen Wong is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Carmen approaches all problems with the patient in mind knowing that each experience is unique and individual. Her Eastern background and Western approach provide a holistic model of care which is not solely focused on psychopharmacology. She believes that through empathetic and compassionate care, we can all approach life’s obstacles together with growth and resilience. You can expect a collaborative treatment plan with Carmen. You will work together to form a plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications, holistic approaches, and psychopharmacology.
Carmen Wong is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Carmen approaches all problems with the patient in mind knowing that each experience is unique and individual. Her Eastern background and Western approach provide a holistic model of care which is not solely focused on psychopharmacology. She believes that through empathetic and compassionate care, we can all approach life’s obstacles together with growth and resilience. You can expect a collaborative treatment plan with Carmen. You will work together to form a plan that incorporates lifestyle modifications, holistic approaches, and psychopharmacology.
(929) 955-1747 View (929) 955-1747
Photo of Sarah Sakirsky, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Sakirsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Sarah Sakirsky is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience in inpatient and private practice settings. She graduated with her Masters from Decker School of Nursing at Binghamton University.
Sarah Sakirsky is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience in inpatient and private practice settings. She graduated with her Masters from Decker School of Nursing at Binghamton University.
(646) 212-7124 View (646) 212-7124
Photo of Paula F Eagle, MD, Psychiatrist
Paula F Eagle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
If you are anxious and depressed despite trying different medications and treatments and, you can't seem to get the relief you need, and if you still don't connect in relationships, and can't find satisfaction in your accomplishments, or engage in self-destructive behavior, then I am the person to contact. I have traditional training in psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, but I also use hypnosis, EMDR, and other innovative forms of treatment. I believe that communication is the key to effective treatment and that our teamwork is essential to the development of trust and empathy necessary in developing healthy relationships..
If you are anxious and depressed despite trying different medications and treatments and, you can't seem to get the relief you need, and if you still don't connect in relationships, and can't find satisfaction in your accomplishments, or engage in self-destructive behavior, then I am the person to contact. I have traditional training in psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, but I also use hypnosis, EMDR, and other innovative forms of treatment. I believe that communication is the key to effective treatment and that our teamwork is essential to the development of trust and empathy necessary in developing healthy relationships..
(212) 448-0248 View (212) 448-0248
Photo of Sana Kalra, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sana Kalra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Sana is determined to provide client centered, thorough, and personalized care. Unlike quick evaluations, Sana prioritizes is utilizing 60-90 minute evaluations. She emphasizes on understanding her clients deeply—their stories, symptoms, and management strategies. Her goal is to empower clients with tools for optimal mental health, including psychotherapy, medication management, integrative psychiatry, and appropriate referrals for other services as necessary.
Sana is determined to provide client centered, thorough, and personalized care. Unlike quick evaluations, Sana prioritizes is utilizing 60-90 minute evaluations. She emphasizes on understanding her clients deeply—their stories, symptoms, and management strategies. Her goal is to empower clients with tools for optimal mental health, including psychotherapy, medication management, integrative psychiatry, and appropriate referrals for other services as necessary.
(646) 466-7505 View (646) 466-7505
Photo of Betty Lau, MD, Psychiatrist
Betty Lau
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10004
While all psychiatrists receive some child psychiatry training, I’m a Board-certified child psychiatrist, in private practice. Simultaneously, as the director of one of the largest public, child psychiatry clinics in New York City, 90% of my patients are under the age of 18. I’ve dedicated my entire career to working with children and families. I manage the gamut of high acuity cases in the emergency room, to recent hospitalizations, to stable young adults. I’m well-versed in long-term and short-term dynamic, as well as, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and am able to integrate pharmacotherapy into the treatment of patients of all
While all psychiatrists receive some child psychiatry training, I’m a Board-certified child psychiatrist, in private practice. Simultaneously, as the director of one of the largest public, child psychiatry clinics in New York City, 90% of my patients are under the age of 18. I’ve dedicated my entire career to working with children and families. I manage the gamut of high acuity cases in the emergency room, to recent hospitalizations, to stable young adults. I’m well-versed in long-term and short-term dynamic, as well as, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and am able to integrate pharmacotherapy into the treatment of patients of all
(646) 849-2310 View (646) 849-2310
Photo of Richard Groll, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Richard Groll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Richard Groll is an ANCC boardcertified psychiatricmental health nurse practitioner. He completed his MSN in psychiatricmental health nursing at Hunter College. He utilizes his uptodate training and knowledge of treating mental illness in the adult population. During your session Richard will ensure that he is active listening, communicating effectively, and providing you with a patient centered approach to treatment. Richard validates each individual’s experience and has proven to be respectful, punctual, and motivated when assisting individuals in their recovery and restoration of their mental wellbeing.
Richard Groll is an ANCC boardcertified psychiatricmental health nurse practitioner. He completed his MSN in psychiatricmental health nursing at Hunter College. He utilizes his uptodate training and knowledge of treating mental illness in the adult population. During your session Richard will ensure that he is active listening, communicating effectively, and providing you with a patient centered approach to treatment. Richard validates each individual’s experience and has proven to be respectful, punctual, and motivated when assisting individuals in their recovery and restoration of their mental wellbeing.
(347) 836-6793 View (347) 836-6793
Photo of Elizabeth Luketich, PA, Physician Assistant
Elizabeth Luketich
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Online Only
My approach to care is very patient-centered, and I focus on establishing strong connections with my patients to ensure they feel listened to and understood.
My approach to care is very patient-centered, and I focus on establishing strong connections with my patients to ensure they feel listened to and understood.
(929) 628-2932 View (929) 628-2932

See more therapy options for 10105

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10105

< 10

Psychiatrists in 10105 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 10105 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10105?

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.