Psychiatrists in 10463

Photo of Esther Rollhaus, Psychiatrist, MD
Esther Rollhaus
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy to treat children, adolescents, and adults. I strongly believe that the treatment of individuals involves a careful understanding of the families, communities, and systems that shape their lives.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy to treat children, adolescents, and adults. I strongly believe that the treatment of individuals involves a careful understanding of the families, communities, and systems that shape their lives.
(718) 504-2785 View (718) 504-2785
Photo of Shannon R Dingle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Shannon R Dingle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Appreciation for the human spirit is an integral aspect of my approach to medication intervention and psychotherapy. I am aware of the courage it often takes to ask for, and accept clinical/psychopharmacological help. Collaboration in this process is most important. I strive to prescribe medication based on a detailed assessment. However, medication management does not lend itself to overnight fixes; It takes commitment and a patient who is onboard with the process. I am currently offering supportive psychotherapy to clients who choose medication mgmt.
Appreciation for the human spirit is an integral aspect of my approach to medication intervention and psychotherapy. I am aware of the courage it often takes to ask for, and accept clinical/psychopharmacological help. Collaboration in this process is most important. I strive to prescribe medication based on a detailed assessment. However, medication management does not lend itself to overnight fixes; It takes commitment and a patient who is onboard with the process. I am currently offering supportive psychotherapy to clients who choose medication mgmt.
(646) 759-4236 View (646) 759-4236
Photo of Kenneth James Garcia, Psychiatrist, MD
Kenneth James Garcia
Psychiatrist, MD
Bronx, NY 10463
Medications provide transient benefits for the majority of psychiatric issues. For optimal and enduring results, the combination of capable psychotherapy to foster insight with judicial use of supplemental medication to moderate distracting emotionality is best. Tragically, since psychiatric medications were introduced in the 1950's, psychiatrists have forgetten the unique experience of the individual and instead overdiagnose a few disorders and treat predominantly with medication. There are no magic pills. Any patient willing to do the work, can experience a positive change in their lives. (2) No insurance accepted.
Medications provide transient benefits for the majority of psychiatric issues. For optimal and enduring results, the combination of capable psychotherapy to foster insight with judicial use of supplemental medication to moderate distracting emotionality is best. Tragically, since psychiatric medications were introduced in the 1950's, psychiatrists have forgetten the unique experience of the individual and instead overdiagnose a few disorders and treat predominantly with medication. There are no magic pills. Any patient willing to do the work, can experience a positive change in their lives. (2) No insurance accepted.
(315) 828-0767 View (315) 828-0767
Photo of Dr. Dobgima Erick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Dr. Dobgima Erick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Riverdale, NY 10463
Does everything seem to be a burden for you these days? Do you find it difficult to keep on going? Does it feel like nobody seems to understand what your are going through but always judging you? Are your finding it difficult to concentrate and function at work, at school, at home, with your co-workers, friends, family and other loved ones? Are your struggling with regulating your emotions?... You are not alone. Help is available. It's private, discrete, judgement free, and at your own pace. Medication is not always the answer (unless clinically necessary); so let's connect and explore the options together.
Does everything seem to be a burden for you these days? Do you find it difficult to keep on going? Does it feel like nobody seems to understand what your are going through but always judging you? Are your finding it difficult to concentrate and function at work, at school, at home, with your co-workers, friends, family and other loved ones? Are your struggling with regulating your emotions?... You are not alone. Help is available. It's private, discrete, judgement free, and at your own pace. Medication is not always the answer (unless clinically necessary); so let's connect and explore the options together.
(646) 759-4038 View (646) 759-4038
Photo of Paul Izak Campion, Psychiatrist, MD
Paul Izak Campion
Psychiatrist, MD
Bronx, NY 10463
With board certification in adult as well as geriatric psychiatry, I have the training and experience to treat clients across the entire adult age range. I believe firmly in an existential, whole-person approach to clients--whether the treatment involves psychotherapy, medication management, or both.
With board certification in adult as well as geriatric psychiatry, I have the training and experience to treat clients across the entire adult age range. I believe firmly in an existential, whole-person approach to clients--whether the treatment involves psychotherapy, medication management, or both.
(914) 359-2945 View (914) 359-2945
Photo of Judith Egbe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Judith Egbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Dr. Egbe is a doctoral-prepared, dual-board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. I have an extensive background in providing healthcare services across the lifespan using evidence-based psychiatric treatment focusing on individualized, holistic care. My practice style involves getting to know you, listening to the foundation of problems, and finding a lasting solution. Your mood or whatever diagnosis is/are identified does not define you as a person but rather guides me to tailor your treatment to your unique needs. So, if you feel sad, irritable, or hear/see strange things, join Me.
Dr. Egbe is a doctoral-prepared, dual-board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. I have an extensive background in providing healthcare services across the lifespan using evidence-based psychiatric treatment focusing on individualized, holistic care. My practice style involves getting to know you, listening to the foundation of problems, and finding a lasting solution. Your mood or whatever diagnosis is/are identified does not define you as a person but rather guides me to tailor your treatment to your unique needs. So, if you feel sad, irritable, or hear/see strange things, join Me.
(770) 758-7440 View (770) 758-7440
Photo of Kevin Chou, Psychiatrist, MD
Kevin Chou
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Life's hard. You feel judged by others, and you might even be judging yourself (even harshly). Everything, even our own history, makes us feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, or ashamed. What kind of world is this? Why are all these things happening to us?!
Life's hard. You feel judged by others, and you might even be judging yourself (even harshly). Everything, even our own history, makes us feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, or ashamed. What kind of world is this? Why are all these things happening to us?!
(646) 779-5595 View (646) 779-5595
Photo of Adena Chaviva Blickstein, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Adena Chaviva Blickstein
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Serves Area
My name is Dr. Blickstein. I am a child/adolescent psychiatrist and the Founder of Teal Dragon Healing, LLC. We focus on healing conflict within families through our Family Reunification Programs. In our programs with offer comprehensive Family Evaluations, medication management and Attunement Training. If you feel uncomfortable with your parenting style or feel that your parenting is the source of your child's distress and seek to improve and become a more resilient and grounded parent, then please reach out. Our approach sees the entire family as needing support when a child is suffering from mental illness.
My name is Dr. Blickstein. I am a child/adolescent psychiatrist and the Founder of Teal Dragon Healing, LLC. We focus on healing conflict within families through our Family Reunification Programs. In our programs with offer comprehensive Family Evaluations, medication management and Attunement Training. If you feel uncomfortable with your parenting style or feel that your parenting is the source of your child's distress and seek to improve and become a more resilient and grounded parent, then please reach out. Our approach sees the entire family as needing support when a child is suffering from mental illness.
(475) 447-1946 View (475) 447-1946
Photo of Dr. Rachel D. Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Dr. Rachel D. Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified located in Texas. I practice in Texas and New York. I am a client-focused practitioner with more than 20 years of experience in the healthcare field. I'm focused on seeing clients 12 years old up into adults of all ages and stages in life. I am a practitioner dedicated to guiding the client toward positive outcomes in mental health through evidence-based practice and education.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified located in Texas. I practice in Texas and New York. I am a client-focused practitioner with more than 20 years of experience in the healthcare field. I'm focused on seeing clients 12 years old up into adults of all ages and stages in life. I am a practitioner dedicated to guiding the client toward positive outcomes in mental health through evidence-based practice and education.
(737) 510-2949 View (737) 510-2949
Photo of Dr. Michelle Cohen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Dr. Michelle Cohen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Online Only
Whether you’re navigating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, or perinatal mood disorders, you deserve care that meets you where you are. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. With advanced training from Columbia University and experience in settings ranging from emergency care to specialized perinatal treatment, I help individuals like you uncover the resilience needed to overcome life’s challenges. ADHD is a particular area of focus in my practice, and I understand the frustration of feeling “impossible to treat.”
Whether you’re navigating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, or perinatal mood disorders, you deserve care that meets you where you are. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide therapy and medication management tailored to your unique needs. With advanced training from Columbia University and experience in settings ranging from emergency care to specialized perinatal treatment, I help individuals like you uncover the resilience needed to overcome life’s challenges. ADHD is a particular area of focus in my practice, and I understand the frustration of feeling “impossible to treat.”
(929) 209-9950 View (929) 209-9950
Photo of Miriam G. Bloom, Psychiatrist, MD
Miriam G. Bloom
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a board certified Child and Adolescent psychiatrist with over 27 years experience evaluating and treating children, adolescents and adults. My expertise is therapy and psychopharmacologic treatment of patients of all ages, with additional experience in treating young children with ADHD, autism and mood disorders. I work with each patient to develop a careful and comprehensive treatment plan targeted to that patient's needs. Each patient brings a life story that I haven’t heard before, and each visit an opportunity to achieve better health and understanding. My work is to understand that story.
I am a board certified Child and Adolescent psychiatrist with over 27 years experience evaluating and treating children, adolescents and adults. My expertise is therapy and psychopharmacologic treatment of patients of all ages, with additional experience in treating young children with ADHD, autism and mood disorders. I work with each patient to develop a careful and comprehensive treatment plan targeted to that patient's needs. Each patient brings a life story that I haven’t heard before, and each visit an opportunity to achieve better health and understanding. My work is to understand that story.
(301) 507-3255 View (301) 507-3255
Photo of Ji Young Kim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Ji Young Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Ji Young Kim, and I am currently accepting new clients. My psychiatric skillset is very comprehensive, and I approach each client as an individual. With psychiatric experience at community health center and 10 years of experience in family medicine, my goal is true wellness of mind and body. Therefore, my best effort for individual's unique wellbeing is focused on integrated holistic practices and principles, including medication treatment, natural healing in body and mind, dietary recommendations, and behavioral recommendations.
My name is Ji Young Kim, and I am currently accepting new clients. My psychiatric skillset is very comprehensive, and I approach each client as an individual. With psychiatric experience at community health center and 10 years of experience in family medicine, my goal is true wellness of mind and body. Therefore, my best effort for individual's unique wellbeing is focused on integrated holistic practices and principles, including medication treatment, natural healing in body and mind, dietary recommendations, and behavioral recommendations.
(914) 246-5228 View (914) 246-5228

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cheryl Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Cheryl Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
New York, NY 10003
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering virtual consultations through Orenda Psychiatry in New York. With over 20 years of nursing experience, I specialize in providing care for patients living with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, and PTSD. I believe in building therapeutic relationships based on kindness, compassion and respect.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering virtual consultations through Orenda Psychiatry in New York. With over 20 years of nursing experience, I specialize in providing care for patients living with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, and PTSD. I believe in building therapeutic relationships based on kindness, compassion and respect.
(646) 791-3054 View (646) 791-3054
Photo of Beena Saad, Psychiatrist, MBBS
Beena Saad
Psychiatrist, MBBS
Brooklyn, NY 11213
Dr. Beena Saad treats older adults navigating mental health challenges commonly associated with aging, including depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and psychiatric symptoms linked to chronic medical conditions. She is also accustomed to treating patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, cancer survivors, and individuals undergoing chemotherapy. These clients seek expert care tailored to their specific physical and emotional needs, in order to preserve their independence, enhance their quality of life, and address the distress between mental and physical health. Dr. Saad provides a supportive environment where patient
Dr. Beena Saad treats older adults navigating mental health challenges commonly associated with aging, including depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and psychiatric symptoms linked to chronic medical conditions. She is also accustomed to treating patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, cancer survivors, and individuals undergoing chemotherapy. These clients seek expert care tailored to their specific physical and emotional needs, in order to preserve their independence, enhance their quality of life, and address the distress between mental and physical health. Dr. Saad provides a supportive environment where patient
(929) 930-6425 View (929) 930-6425
Joseph Kasamba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , PMHNP
Online Only
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) nurse practitioner, I recognize the unique needs of patients with mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and trauma-related stress disorders. These patients often experience complex, interwoven symptoms that require a holistic, compassionate approach. By providing tailored care that addresses the emotional, psychological, and physical components of these disorders, I aim to help patients achieve improved quality of life and stability in their mental health.
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) nurse practitioner, I recognize the unique needs of patients with mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and trauma-related stress disorders. These patients often experience complex, interwoven symptoms that require a holistic, compassionate approach. By providing tailored care that addresses the emotional, psychological, and physical components of these disorders, I aim to help patients achieve improved quality of life and stability in their mental health.
(929) 405-1841 View (929) 405-1841
Photo of Izehi Eromosele Pmhnp-Bc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Izehi Eromosele Pmhnp-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I am current accepting clients from New York, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington state and New Mexico. I specialize in Anxiety and depression, OCD, PTSD ,ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders. Do you have trouble organizing and staying focused. Ever question whether what you're feeling is normal? Do you need help with forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or getting easily distracted? Does getting out of bed in the morning feel challenging, and you've lost the motivation to engage in life, sometimes feeling sad without an apparent reason? We prioritize your mental health. we prioritize you! contact us today.
I am current accepting clients from New York, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington state and New Mexico. I specialize in Anxiety and depression, OCD, PTSD ,ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders. Do you have trouble organizing and staying focused. Ever question whether what you're feeling is normal? Do you need help with forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or getting easily distracted? Does getting out of bed in the morning feel challenging, and you've lost the motivation to engage in life, sometimes feeling sad without an apparent reason? We prioritize your mental health. we prioritize you! contact us today.
(646) 759-1519 View (646) 759-1519
Photo of Carmelle Cime, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Carmelle Cime
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from NOVA Southeastern University and a second master’s in psychiatry from Wilkes University.
I am a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from NOVA Southeastern University and a second master’s in psychiatry from Wilkes University.
(332) 244-4116 View (332) 244-4116
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(646) 328-6559 View (646) 328-6559
Photo of Stella Okah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stella Okah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Stella Okah, I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified. I'm licensed to practice independently in a great State of New York. A full spectrum of psychiatric care and addiction management, assessing, diagnosing, and managing the prevention and treatment of psychiatric disorders and behavioral health problems. General health promotion and disease prevention. Follow up for symptoms and medication management. Communicate effectively with other disciplines for collaborative and integrated care
My name is Stella Okah, I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified. I'm licensed to practice independently in a great State of New York. A full spectrum of psychiatric care and addiction management, assessing, diagnosing, and managing the prevention and treatment of psychiatric disorders and behavioral health problems. General health promotion and disease prevention. Follow up for symptoms and medication management. Communicate effectively with other disciplines for collaborative and integrated care
(332) 284-2899 View (332) 284-2899
Photo of Dr. Kimia Pourrezaei, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Kimia Pourrezaei
Psychiatrist, DO
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Dr. Pourrezaei is an NYU trained double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. In her practice, Dr. Pourrezaei prioritizes creating a safe, nurturing, and playful environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, understood, and seen. She recognizes the unique narrative of each person and tailors her approach accordingly, ensuring that treatment plans are thoughtfully crafted to meet their needs.
Dr. Pourrezaei is an NYU trained double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. In her practice, Dr. Pourrezaei prioritizes creating a safe, nurturing, and playful environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, understood, and seen. She recognizes the unique narrative of each person and tailors her approach accordingly, ensuring that treatment plans are thoughtfully crafted to meet their needs.
(929) 407-3736 View (929) 407-3736

See more therapy options for 10463

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10463

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 10463 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
83% Anxiety
75% Bipolar Disorder
67% ADHD
50% Relationship Issues
50% Grief
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 10463 see their clients

58% Online Only
42% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10463?

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.